A Semi-Wordless Wednesday...

It's state TEST week in our schools and I'm TIRED!!

Can SOMEBODY Tell Me....

Have you ever seen Linus sit and ponder with Charlie Brown? My favorite is when Charlie Brown shouts out "Can anyone tell me what Christmas is all about?" And Linus matter-of-factly steps up to the mike and shares the Christmas story from the Gospel.

This is no "Christmas Story" question...but it IS a "Charlie Brown" question....

CAN ANYBODY TELL ME WHY MY RSS FEED DOESN'T WORK ON MY BLOG????

Melli mentioned my RSS feed doesn't seem to be working. I tried to reset it on the template. I confess I had to ask her what to do...

Now, I've been wondering for a LONG time why my blogroll doesn't show "new" posts when I tell it to do so....I'm starting to think this is all connected.

I realize this is no where as deep as the real meaning of Christmas. But, I know some of you techies out there might be my Linus...step up to the mike and talk to me.

:-)

Monday Musings....

I love this speech delivered by Sojourner Truth in 1851 at a Women's Rights Convention. There is some discrepancy about what her actual words really were--this is an account given by Frances Gage, the leader of the movement many years after the convention.

There is, however, no question that she addressed the meeting (a room full of men--many who were ministers and women) in a very powerful way with her very tall (5'11'+ frame) and "soulful deep-toned voice". There is no question that she was NOT on the day's agenda...this was impromptu. And there is NO QUESTION that she spoke to the hearts of women (and men) in that room.

It really is a reminder that we, as women, are not so different from one another. In my mind it's so much more than equality...and/or feminism...it's about being part of a human race that really knows no race or ethnic differences. It's about recognizing that we are all God's children.

I love it, though that this woman who lived through slavery...in a time where it really wasn't apropos for a woman to speak in public...much less a black woman....wasn't afraid to speak what she believed. She spoke with passion. She spoke from her heart. She obviously lived her life with passion. Would that we would all find ways to defend a cause or help one another with such heart! I think we could change the world if there were more modern day "Sojourners".

And so, I ask myself...in what areas do I need to be bold and speak out on behalf of others? Here's Sojourner's example:

Ain't I A Woman?

by Sojourner Truth

Delivered 1851 at the Women's Convention in Akron, Ohio

Well, children, where there is so much racket there must be something out of kilter. I think that 'twixt the negroes of the South and the women at the North, all talking about rights, the white men will be in a fix pretty soon. But what's all this here talking about?

That man over there says that women need to be helped into carriages, and lifted over ditches, and to have the best place everywhere. Nobody ever helps me into carriages, or over mud-puddles, or gives me any best place! And ain't I a woman? Look at me! Look at my arm! I have ploughed and planted, and gathered into barns, and no man could head me! And ain't I a woman? I could work as much and eat as much as a man - when I could get it - and bear the lash as well! And ain't I a woman? I have borne thirteen children, and seen most all sold off to slavery, and when I cried out with my mother's grief, none but Jesus heard me! And ain't I a woman?

Then they talk about this thing in the head; what's this they call it? [member of audience whispers, "intellect"] That's it, honey. What's that got to do with women's rights or negroes' rights? If my cup won't hold but a pint, and yours holds a quart, wouldn't you be mean not to let me have my little half measure full?

Then that little man in black there, he says women can't have as much rights as men, 'cause Christ wasn't a woman! Where did your Christ come from? Where did your Christ come from? From God and a woman! Man had nothing to do with Him.

If the first woman God ever made was strong enough to turn the world upside down all alone, these women together ought to be able to turn it back , and get it right side up again! And now they is asking to do it, the men better let them.

Obliged to you for hearing me, and now old Sojourner ain't got nothing more to say.

Sunday Seven

I know that Jane over at Cozy Reader is participating in this meme...and I decided I'd give it a go. Soooooo....Heeerreee'ss my FIRST Sunday Seven:

1. I am so blessed to have DH home for such a stint this week. He came home on Tuesday and will leave again tomorrow.

2. The pastor at the church we have been attending has been doing a series on marriage and relationships. Today they played a rendition of The Newlywed Game (remember that show?) with three couples from the audience. It was interesting because the couple who had been married for 47 years didn't "win"...and neither did the couple who had been married less than a year...it was the "middle couple" (10 - 15 years) that "won". Here's what I know...it's not the "trivial things" that keep us strong and together...it's that shared vision...that desire to stick together...and truly being friends that keeps us together. I'm grateful that I'm married to my friend!

3. We had a great time at The Blue Man Group last night. It was fun. The kids really enjoyed watching them. I have to say it is such a multi-sensory experience...it's amazing to think about how they put it all together.

4. My SIL celebrated a birthday this week...Happy Birthday, C!!

5. My nephew, M, also celebrates his second birthday this weekend. He's a real joy to be around. Pray for him because he took a spill and broke his leg this week, too. I hear he has a hot red ELMO-type cast...and that he'd be up and running again soon.

6. As we looked at relationships at church, it's hard not to think about my two sons who are in dating relationships. It's evident that both boys know the value of being friends with their partner. I'm proud that they nurture that part of their relationships so well.

7. The weather is absolutely gorgeous out today. I AM thankful for living in a beautiful place where we can enjoy those around us.

Blessings Everyone!!

Bridge Crushing, Soccer and Blue Man Group

DS 3 and my FIL have been working on a Toothpick Bridge over the last month. This contest takes place in our town each year in February. DS 3's Science Teacher requires that each student participate once during their middle school years.

This is the third bridge we've made in our house. DSs 1 and 2 both had this teacher and had to do the project as well. Quite honestly, they weren't THAT into it (and neither were their parents). So, when DS 3 announced this was the year...we thought about asking Grandpa to help. He is a bit more meticulous than the other males in this neck of the woods.

Sure enough, he came through by helping DS 3 find a plan, build triangles, and glue glue glue. He and DS 3 worked hard and got all the sides built last week. Before they could stand it up and put the other supports on, though, FIL had to leave town...and may I say that DH came home "in the nick of time" to help finish the bridge project.

This morning DS 3, DH, FIL, DSs 2 and 4 and DS 2's GF went to watch "THE CRUSHER"! DS 3's bridge was the third one to be crushed. His held 10 pounds...they must hold 5 pounds to "qualify". Believe it or not they CAN make these things to hold the weight of a full grown man. (That never was DS 3's goal.)

The day continued as we all went to DS 2's soccer game. It was a "friendly game" and the first one of the club team's new season. They lost 1 - 0 (although we think there was a goal that didn't get called because it bounced back out of the net. Anyway, it was a pretty day to be out watching a game....

Tonight, we're all off to see The Blue Man Group

You may remember these guys from some TV commercials. They are "all blue" from head to toe and play unique and interesting percussion instruments. I saw them in Chicago back in May and loved it. It was a very fun event.

DS 2 has wanted to see them for a very long time (it's the drummer in him). DS 4 asked to go see them for his birthday...so we are all going.

I'm off to get ready. Hope your Saturday is going well.

Friday Feast

Appetizer
Where on your body do you have a scar, and what caused it?
I have a scar on my left index finger. This accident happened on DH's and my first New Year's Eve together. He was working late. I was making appetizers for us to celebrate the new year (1988) when he got home. I was trying to open a package of Gouda Cheese and I couldn't get it. I stuck the knife in and it ripped the cheese and into my finger. I had to get stitches (7 of them). DH was surprised when he walked through the door to relax and celebrate that we had to go to the hospital...but he was gracious as always.

Soup
What is something that has happened to you that you would consider a miracle?
When DS 4 was being delivered, the doctor kept telling us that we needed a C-Section. I had three babies naturally and couldn't believe this was happening. This was not my regular doctor as it was a Sunday. This particular doctor has a reputation for doing unnecessary C's, so I was VERY hesitant. The nurse helped us decide to go ahead. Now, when you watch the video, DS had completely tied the ubilical cord into a knot and it was wrapped around his neck! The doctor told us later that had he tried to come through the birth canal, we'd have lost him. He's our miracle.

Salad
Name a television personality who really gets on your nerves.
I mean no disrespect by this...but right now, it's between Anna Nicole and Brittney Spears. Anna is gone. Yet she is on my TV more now than ever. And Brittney...well...need I really go into it???

Main Course
What was a funny word you said as a child (such as "pasketti" for "spaghetti")?
My Dad used to sing the hymn "In the Garden" to me. The first line is "I come to the garden alone." I guess I once sang with him, "I come to the garbage alone..."

Dessert
Fill in the blank: I have always thought ______ was ______.
(This one was hard! I couldn't think of anything.I may come back and re-edit later if a better statement comes to mind.)
I have always thought beets are disgusting, smelly and gross!

Thursday Thirteen #42

Thirteen Reasons I LOVE Thursday Thirteen.....and will MISS it!!

1. It forces me to get around to blogs that I haven't seen before. And some of them I have found to visit again during the "non" TT days.

2. It makes me think about a list each week. This has been fun as it's really helped me learn more about myself.

3. I like it when my kids read it and tell me, "you should have said....." OR "I can't believe you said...."

4. I find that sometimes just "having" THIRTEEN thoughts about one subject can be difficult (who knew?).

5. I love finding new header graphics for it. I really love it that people are willing to share theirs. I need to learn to do that!!!!

6. It helps me know what other people think...and occasionally, I find that I'm not alone in my thinking.

7. I've been able to say things I love about people in my life...that I might not have said otherwise. I know it's a bad fault to not tell people just how much they mean...I'm guilty, however, of missed opportunities. This has helped me think of things.

8. I know I love it, cause I was sad, sad, sad, when I went to the site and found all the codes and stuff had been retired!!

9. I like surfing on Thursdays and getting comments from people who have never visited my blog before.

10. I love looking at my site meter on Thursdays because I can see all the places represented by TT visitors....

11. Sometimes, it keeps me on task...when I haven't blogged...or I don't know WHAT to blog, a Thursday will come around and I know I can do it.

12. It can make otherwise "mudane" facts...somewhat interesting.

13. It's JUST FUN!!!

Speaking of Clutter....

I know that some of you DO live in homes that are completely clutter-free. I even have one friend who, though she has "stuff", you'd never know it. I am always amazed when I visit her home. Then, there are others who simply have no extra "stuff"....they don't keep their kids' papers and artwork from school, they don't keep years worth of photographs, they don't keep Grandma's old dishes, or Grandpa's old pocketknife. Nope. These people keep nothing.

I think there HAS to be a balance of "keeping" and "purging", though.

I don't keep EVERY paper my kids ever brought home from school...Heaven knows we'd have enough paper to make up for some lost forest somewhere! I do have some of their writing, their artwork, and their awards. I want to give them to the boys someday.

I don't even have all of Grandma's old dishes...but I DO have some pieces that she shared with me when we cleaned out her home down here. That was a precious time. I learned more about my family history. I know that I have some pieces that have been touched by relatives I never had the chance to meet. I know that I have some things that were important to my Grandparents and thus have been "passed down". I love that.

Here's something else, though, that I've thought about clutter. I think EVERYONE has some somewhere.

Of course, your house may be "model home ready". You may not fret over anyone peeking in your closets at any time of the day or night. I applaud you. That is a gift. It's one that I simply do NOT have for the day-to-day of my life.

Clutter IS all around us...whether it's in a corner of the attic or the cobwebby corner of our minds. For some people, it's cluttered thoughts that need to be cleaned and straightened. For others, it's the cluttered day that bogs us down. Still others, find that their "clutter" comes from a calendar or their schedule.

I think the quote that I shared in my last post sums it up in a way:

Whether it is a cluttered desk, cluttered house, a cluttered room in the house, or even a cluttered mind trying to keep track of too many things; clutter is around us everywhere.

The fact of the matter is, we ALL have areas that could stand to be "de-cluttered". And, like my closet, we can choose to let it sit and fester until we explode and tear through it in a frenzied maelstrom. The problem is, then we find ourselves sitting in the middle of a pile of rubble (like my picture) not knowing quite where to begin. Or, we can empty and clear it out calmly and carefully, weed out the "old stuff" and start anew.

I'm going to spend today thinking about what else I'd like to "de-clutter". Then, piece by piece, bit by bit, layer by layer, I'm going to begin. This time, I'm going to do it without flurry and drama...but with a mission to find peace....in my thoughts, in my words, in my deeds, in my job, and yes, in my house.

Here's the scripture I'm going to rest in as I continue to declutter:

Ephesians 4: 22-23
22You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; 23to be made new in the attitude of your minds; 24and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.

I'm Out of the Closet!

Have you ever written a post that you didn't publish? I did, on Saturday...I was having a fit because I was being swallowed up by clutter! I keep saying I'm going to do something about it and on Sunday I did. I THREW everything....EVERYTHING....out of my closet. I emptied it completely out. This pile in the photo represents only one semi-small portion of the MESS MOUNTAIN (dust bunnies and all) that I made on my rampage.

It only took a few minutes for me to dump the entire thing into my bedroom and bathroom. Once it was done, though, I wanted to sit in the middle of it and CRY--but there was NO WHERE to SIT! I thought, "What the HECK (OK I might not have thought "heck") did I do???" But I promised to get it done before DH came home on Tuesday. So I had to start whittling away at it. {Note: I did email him in the middle of this to tell him what I had done....and that sweet man said, "Don't worry about it....it will all be fine..."}

Since I am a Pottery Barn catalog nut, I know all about containers for organizing. I love that look. Knowing no one is really going to look at my closet (except now the blogging world via these photos), I decided it would be ridiculous to spend THAT much money on organizers.

My second choice for container shopping would be Ikea...but that's no where near me. Soooo....I did the next best thing....I headed to my favorite hangout in town...TARGET! I bought two shelf units and a cubbie unit the wire "milk crates" and the canvas containers. I had plenty of plastic storage crates to "fill in" where there were gaps.


I started by putting things in the back of the closet that I do not use regularly....my Christmas Gift Wrap, cards, and boxes are now up there. Then, I moved to the gift items I keep on hand for special occasions. I WEEDED out a TON and kept some "just in case".

Next I went through every piece of clothing that I own and either hung up or put in the "give away" pile. Actually, I had to do this to be able to go to bed last night. It's a good thing DH wasn't home, because there was only room for me in the bed...and there WAS no room to turn over. Anyway, I hung everything up by type and color. I've had it this way before...but "the best laid plans..." I like being able to locate things quickly, so I'm going to give it a try again.

The "give away" pile was HUGE...by the time I got done with the clothes. Early this morning, I loaded my van with bags and boxes and headed to Goodwill (knowing full well I might have another trip). The guy kept thinking I was done and I'd open another door and pull out more stuff. It was like the "donation Clown Car". He said, "I'm SURE you want a receipt." I took it and left.

My closet also has to house my scrapbooking supplies. So, today that was my focus. I wanted to bring some order to that total chaos. I spent today pretty much weeding out cropping stuff and
finally organizing those photos that were out of sequence. You can see the black sorting boxes under my shirts to the left. These house all my uncropped photos from 1986 to the present. They are now labeled and in order.

I was also able to put paper and supplies on the shelf next to these boxes and my travel cropping bags on the other side. They fit beautifully. I can't remember the last time I cropped. At least this way, I can get my hands on just a few needed items and do a little bit instead of having to make an entire production out of it.

Is it done yet? Yes, the closet is pretty much done except for one load of laundry that has to be washed and folded...and hung in its proper place.

On Saturday before this all started, I found a quote about clutter and I put it in my unpublished post. Here's a portion of it:
Feeling drained of energy? Never seem to get anything done? Perhaps one of the contributing factors is clutter.... Whether it is a cluttered desk, cluttered house, a cluttered room in the house, or even a cluttered mind trying to keep track of too many things; clutter is around us everywhere. Using a system based on Feng Shui [the author] leads you through the process of uncluttering your life and returning to a more relaxed state.

I don't know if its truly "feng shui", but I know that I feel better about it and I actually DO feel a bit more relaxed...tired and sore too...but calmer when I think about it. So, now the only problem...to find my "relaxed state" means I have to be "in the closet" until I tackle the other areas in my house that need attention. Oh well, at least there's room to sit in there!

Have a GREAT week everyone!! I hope to catch up on your posts soon. I've missed you all!!

Friday Feast

Appetizer: What sound, other than the normal ringing, would you like your telephone to make?
I think a nice piano would be good...Jim Brickman style.

Soup: Describe your usual disposition in meteorological terms (partly cloudy, sunny, stormy, etc.).
OK, I wanted to say "Sunny" (of course)...instead I have to say "Hurricane Warning" with scattered Sunshine. The only reason I say "Hurricane"...is because I lead a pretty frenzied life...there's a lot going on and yet, there's always that "eye" where things are pretty calm and peaceful too. (Gosh, the truth hurts sometimes!)

Salad: What specific subject do you feel you know better than any other subjects?

Since I sleep, eat and breathe Literacy...I'd have to say "Reading Instruction". My job is to coach teachers in the implementation of best-practices for Reading instruction. It's my passion and I'm glad to know that I get to do it every single day.

Main Course: Imagine you were given the ability to remember everything you read for one entire day. Which books/magazines/newspapers would you choose to read?

The Bible for sure. I don't "retain it" like I should. It's my dream to be like those people who have a scripture for every occasion. I simply don't. Secondly, I think I'd choose a language book for a total second language.

Dessert: If a popular candy maker contacted you to create their next confection, what would it be like and what would you name it?

Decadent Dark CHOCOLATE! Don't know what I'd name it...I'll have to think about that one....

Isn't she lovely?????

...and isn't he WONDERFUL????

My sweet husband is out of town this week...part of the changes we've gone through recently. This new job focus has him out until about the middle of March. He's been home on the weekends--which has been wonderful.

This past weekend, we went out for what I decided was our Valentine's Dinner. I've been a bit under the weather, so I wasn't much company. But, even after 20 years of marriage, I still LOVE talking and sharing with him. It was a wonderful evening despite my not feeling so good.

I sent him an eCard today. I really didn't expect anything since we went out.

Today I had a meeting at our District Office, so I didn't get in to the school until 1:00pm. When I walked in the door several of our office people were there and they all said, "You have a gift....we want to watch you open it...go get it!" I thought it was strange as people have been getting flowers for the past two days.

When I opened it up, this adorable bear is what I found! She's a Vermont Teddy Bear and she's absolutely BEAUTIFUL! She came with the forever roses that you see in the picture and a tag saying "Happy Valentine's Day!"

She's now sitting on this bench in my family room with all my other bears.

She looks perfect there. And, he made my day! I know I've said it before, but......

Yes, I DO LOVE THAT MAN!!

Happy Valentine's Day!!

Valentines

See below for current post. This one will be at the top until Valentines next week. I saw this over at Mary's Place I loved Valentines Day when I was little....I think it will be fun to get Valentines again. So, put your pretty bag decorated for Valentine's on the edge of your desk and let's play!! Leavea comment if you're playing and I'll send one your way too!!


Get your own valentine

:-) Susan

Am I a profiler?

As much as I don't want to admit it, I am a profiler! I think I have always been a bit this way...but 9/11 brought it to a whole other level in my life. I try and avoid it. I try not to do it. I fail miserably, at times, however.

The first time I taught in a school that was predominantly African American, I had to deal with this. I have NEVER considered myself a prejudice person...but I found out that we DO sometimes have hidden prejudices. We have "beliefs" about a culture or ethnic group that sometimes dictate our response to that group. That year, I used to tell people that the only "white thing in that classroom was me and the copy paper." And it was true. I knew I had a lot to offer them and I was happy to be there. I never dreamed, though, just how much I'd learn FROM my 17 inner city kids and their parents. Slowly, but surely, layer by layer, I had to come face to face with the little prejudices that I had somewhere inside me...you know the ones that make us think there's an "us" and a "them"? I believe I was a much better person for this experience.

As I said, 9/11 made me keenly aware that I had other "uncovered prejudice" though. I suddenly became aware of a culture called "Middle Eastern" and this religion called, "Islam" and this place called "Afghanistan". I confess, when I see women dressed in burqas and the men that are with them, I often wonder, "Could they be a terrorist?" For that, I am sorry...and just like my immersion in the inner city African American culture, I find myself face to face with my own "issues" through school, community, and world events.

It was no accident, in my opinion, that I read the book The Kite Runner this weekend. It had been recommended to me by a friend. I had seen it pop up on many many blogs. So, I picked it up. And, boy am I GLAD I DID!

This book is a poignant reminder that what lies beneath all skin color and religious differences, is humanness. In our humanness we are so much alike. We hurt. We fall. We laugh. We cry. We fear. We mess up. All the human emotions we can name are things that know no racial, economic or ethnic boundaries.

The Kite Runner is a beautifully told story about life in Afghanistan before and after the Taliban. It is a story of the human spirit. Of bitter truths. Of the beautiful possibility that we all have for redemption...and for bringing beauty out of ashes.

If you have not read this book, do. Here is the New York Times' Review. And here is a quote from a site called, Book-Club:

The glimpses that the reader sees of a precious and loved culture, of a city fondly remembered, of proud and strong Afghani traditions are contrasted with the shocking visit back to Afghanistan to find a city and the people brought low by cruel and insane violence. Hosseini convincingly portrays the power of racism to poison even the most innocent of boyhood friendships.

What is so satisfactory about The Kite Runner is that the pain and the hurt is never sentimentalised and brushed away. The damage done in childhood causes irreversible scars that aren't magically made to disappear. There is no Hollywood sunset ending. Reconciliation and redemption is never easy. But there is hope, a hope that is tinged with the sadness of so much destruction - insane political destruction on a grand scale and on a personal scale, the destruction of one unique and precious friendship.

And, may we all profile less and reach across our own "borders" more!

It's a Small, Small World!!

This has been an interesting week, for sure. It's one of those weeks when I am convinced that we really DO live in a small, small world.

First, I received an email from dh this week. It was a forward of an email he received after a church service last Sunday. Here's the story:

Last Sunday, the sender of the email, C, was in church in Austin, Texas. Her pastor referred to the "coaching process" they are undergoing and mentioned my dh's name. C was floored because she was a member of our church in the Tampa area over 8 years ago. Afterwards, she talked with the pastor and found out that it was, indeed, my husband.

Thank goodness for Google---she googled my dh and found his email address. They are going to try and get together later this month when dh is back out her way.

Let me tell you, C was (and is) very special to us. Circumstances have just caused our paths to drift apart. She cared for DS 3 when he was a baby until he went to preK. She used to volunteer in my classroom when I needed additional help (as her daughters went to my school). She spent countless hours just laughing with and caring for us in so many ways. In fact, my boys still tell what they lovingly call: "Mrs. C Stories"!

It was C who understood my apprehension and utter denial when I found myself pregnant with DS 4 (long story for another day). One particular Sunday, when I skipped church...and sat at home to sulk , my doorbell rang. I muttered as I walked to answer it in my disheveled and depressed state. There, at the door, was my friend, C who had her frying pan and all the crepe fixins' in her hand (something I loved her to make). She said, "Put on your bathrobe and meet me in the kitchen, I'm making us crepes for breakfast!" There WAS no telling C "no"! We sat at my dining room table and laughed and cried until I felt better. It was an amazing moment of sheer friendship that I will never forget.

C is now living in Texas with her daughter. They just moved there in December. How exciting that we are now going to be able to reconnect!! God is good.

A second, and no less surprising, thing happened a couple of days later. I was watching the news and they were talking about our state education test, the FCAT. They interviewed a high school teacher and she looked familiar to me...then they posted her name, MJ, on the screen. I think my jaw dropped to the floor.

MJ and her husband were my youth leaders when I was in the 7th and 8th grade (30 years ago)! We used to babysit their kids when they were young. We used to go stay at their house. They are part of the reason that I continued in my faith as a teenager.

We reconnected one time about 21 years ago when they lived in a north Florida city. That was the last time I heard from them. Now, here she was, on my TV screen this week!!

Thank goodness for Google...I was able to google her name...and find her school in northern Florida. I emailed her at her school address and received an email back the very next day.

Of course, her kids are grown and now having kids! And her husband, who was in banking, has now become an Episcopal Priest!

Isn't it amazing how time flies???

And isn't it amazing just how SMALL this world really is (thanks to Google) ???

Friday Feast 4/130

Appetizer - Have you been sick yet this winter? If so, what did you come down with?

I haven't been down-for-days sick, but I did catch a cold in New York City in December. Right now, I can feel a sore throat and nasal congestion coming on. I'm praying it goes away...and I'm pumping the vitamins!!

Soup - What colors dominate your closet?

I'd have to say it's blues, khakis, reds and browns. In the summer, it changes though to more pinks, greens, and tans.

Salad - How would you describe your personal "comfort zone"?

I definitely have personal space. I can't stand it when someone stands too close to me. As far as going out and trying things....I'll try almost anything once....notice I said "almost". You've got to have an "out" when you need it.

Main Course - On which reality show would you really like to be a contestant?

Oh my goodness...I LOVE the family version of Amazing Race. I think that would be so fun.

Dessert - Which holiday would you consider to be your favorite?

Christmas...hands down!!

Maybe it should be FRIDAY FIFTEEN....or Maybe I'm just a Ditz!

There's a danger in list making, you know. There's always a chance that you'll leave someone out. This is exactly what happened to me with my Thursday Thirteen list. I added my Grandmother to my extended family out of town...thanks to my stepMother for keeping me on my toes! And, my FIL commented tonight about my list and it was then that I realized that I left them off the list, too!!!!!!!!

So, maybe I need to have the Friday Fifteen tomorrow...and add these two special entries:

14. My Grandmother...she is an amazing woman who continues to learn. Her computer skills are amazing. My boys think it's so "cool" to IM with their great Grandmother. She's instilled in me the knowledge that family is important. She values memories and special things that "take her back". She is why I'm into keepsakes. I love you, Grandma!!

15. My in-laws....they are simply the best!! They continue to give and give and give to family and others. As I have become part of the working community in our town...again and again I run into people who have been touched by these two people. It's really special. Although I wouldn't have said it ten years ago, I'm glad we live in the same town. It's been a blessing far greater than I'd ever imagined.

Thursday Thirteen #41

Thirteen Things SUSAN LOVES(in honor of Valentine's Day) 1. My husband...I miss him so much when he is gone. I am so thankful for his friendship and companionship. He's a blessing to me beyond what I could ever put into words. As we approach our 20th anniversary...I find myself regularly pinching myself to be sure it's for real. Thank you, hon, for all the love you give to me. I LOVE YOU!! 2. My boys...I'm always amazed when people look at me sadly when they find out I have four boys. I wouldn't trade being a "boy Mom" for anything. I know I would have loved girls, too. But I KNOW God gave us a special calling to raise boys into Godly men. I'm watching that happen...and it fills my heart with more love for them than I could ever imagine. I love you D, M, J, and A with ALL MY HEART!!!! 3. My parents...Dad, Mom, and C. I am so thankful for each of them. I can't think of a time when they haven't been there for me. I am so blessed that the three of them have gone out of their way to have a united front when it came to us (their kids) and now their Grandkids. My friends remind me over and over how blessed I am that we all "get along". I know it's true...and I love you all for it. 4. My brothers...Dan and Greg. I think about these two and smiles immediately come to my face and warmth to my heart. I don't think life has ever been dull in our family...and I think they are a large part of that. Thanks for all you do to keep us focused on each other and enjoy life. You guys are special!! 5. My BIL and SIL...Dave and Heather. We are so glad that you two are back on this side of the country. It will be great to finally be able to get together and see each other more often. Still, we know that with distance between us...you two are "there" for us. For that, we are grateful!! You continue to be in our prayers as you go through this journey. 6. My SIL...Christie. You are so special! It's been great to see you and Greg grow your sweet family. They are such a blessing to me. Thank you for the many ways you give to the extended family. It's such a gift when someone marries into a "bunch" like ours and just "rolls with it". 7. My Tampa nieces and nephew (C, K, and Z)....you all "bless Aunt Susan's socks off"! I love watching you grow. Your laughter and spirit are just so beautiful. I love the way that you love your "big boy cousins". You, also, love to laugh...this will serve you well as you spread joy to those around you. 8. My Orlando nieces and nephews (R, J, H, and M)....it's exciting that we are getting to see more of you now. I love it when you visit and you just feel "at home"....this blesses me! The love you all have for each other and your family is so special. As you grow, I know you are going to do great things. I can't wait to see what amazing things are in store for each of you. 9. My Grandma, Aunts, Uncles, and Cousins....there are so many of them, it's hard to count. I have to say, though, I have the best extended family. Although we don't see each other often...it's as if we are together all the time. We communicate via email, phone and those rare face-to-face visits. Despite the distance...this family is close. I know that if I need anything all I have to do is call out...and someone would be there. That's a great security! 10. My Bible Study Friends....I am so grateful for this small group of women. They are unafraid to challenge me and help me grow. They also bring me so much joy. I LOVE laughing and talking and singing and praying together. Thank you for filling a void in my life. I'm forever grateful. 11. My Work Friends....I have some very special friends at work that help me. There is no question that this is a place of "TEAM" and minus the "I's" that sometimes exist in workplaces. I can imagine no better work situation than this. It's a joy to go to a place that I enjoy being each and every day. 12. My Writing Buddies and Friends....Over the years I have made so many friends via my job. There are three who have become very special "writing buddies". At some point in time over the last 8 years, I have published with each of them at least once (and some twice). I love it that even though miles separate us...when we are together....things just "pick up where we left off". These are the best kinds of friendships to have. 13. I know I should have started with Jesus. Truth is, without Him, NONE of these people would be in my life. I know that "every good and perfect gift" comes down from Him. I am eternally blessed that He loves me so much to fill my life with such great family and friends.

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Wondering Wednesday....

Occasionally I have moments of inquiry...you know the kind when you ask, "WHY?" I've been in that "mood" lately. I am a "ponderer". I ponder thoughts and ideas and questions. Many never exit my mind. Sometimes, though, you've just got to get them out. Some are rhetorical and some are not. Here's my list in no particular order:

• Why do bad things happen to good people? -- I can't, and won't, let myself fall into the "God must be trying to teach us something" or "It's God's will" trap. I simply cannot believe that a LOVING and MERCIFUL God sits up there and says, "Oh do I have something to teach HER this week.." ZAP! Nope. I think I get myself in enough trouble and HE sits there and says, "WHEN will she learn?" And/or "I can use this to teach her, if she'll listen."

• Why do I always find that no matter how short the line is in the grocery store, if I'm in it...it will become the slowest line? I've pretty much resigned myself to the fact that this simply is the way it will happen most of the time. So I relax and gaze at the magazines that I will not purchase. I guess it's all how you look at it.

• Why is it that I worry when I KNOW that God is in control? I don't know if it's a "Woman thing" or a "Control thing"...but I am a "worrier". Not that I sit and fret and have the "sky is falling" mentality. I just have a hard time having the "God is in control even in the storms" mentality that I SHOULD have!!

• Why are some people who proclaim to be "so good"...so MEAN? Passive/aggressive people make me crazy. Enough said.

• Why do we always want what we can't (or shouldn't) have? I've been really dealing with "envy" lately. I DO have a tendency to look at other people, things or situations and wonder "why can't I have...?" But, what I KNOW we all need to do is look at our own situation, and things, and say..."thanks for the blessings".

• Why is it that my children can reduce me to tears (happy or sad) in a matter of seconds? I was not a "free crier" until I had a children. And the older they get, the worse it gets. I love them and watching them grow makes me cry both happy and sad tears.

• Why do I get defensive when someone questions my actions or attitude? Couldn't it be that I need to hear the question??? It's a true friend who can give you a swift kick in the rear when you need it. I have a couple such friends and they DO help me in this area...it's just hard to hear. It takes longer than it should for me to agree that they might see something that I don't.

• Why do I let so much learning go in one ear and out the other? I learn. I read. Then I forget to put important new skills and concepts into practice.

• Why does our society allow the suffering of so many? Each morning I stand in our Parent Drop Off loop and pray for so many hurting families and children. If I think about it too hard...it makes me cry!!

• Why can't we just all "get along" and "play nice in the sandbox of life"? I know we're all different personalities and we don't all have to be bosom buddies...but I can't stand it when people are mean to each other. Civility would be a good practice, don't you think?

• Why is it that I want to control so many things that really are not my business to control? I'm trying to recover from my "control freakness"...sometimes it's just a SLOW painful process!!!!

• Why can't some people (including me) just SIT STILL and REST??? Sitting still sometimes means you have to listen. And other times it translates to "idle-ness". And it's hard to believe that this is OK sometimes.

• Why (and how) do people walk around their entire lives with horrible scowls on their faces? I always wonder if they were born like that....or if it's simply the bumps of life that cause the contortion. At any rate, there are times when I wonder just how it gets that way...and if it hurts!!

• Why does society move so fast? Enough said.

• Why isn't "the way(s) we used to do things" good enough for now? Don't get me wrong. I'm all for progress...but sometimes I long for the "good ole days". I'm sure this is a pretty good sign that I'm aging.

• Why, though, do we resist change when it's for the better? I pray that I NEVER really become a "we've-never-done-it-that-way-before" human being. I know that change is often good.

Enough of my "Why's" for the day....

Happy Wednesday, everyone!!

When they Fall...

Last night, I received a phone call from my brother, Greg. His son, Z, took a bad fall onto the driveway yesterday from above the ground. The ambulance was called. He has a skull fracture and had to spend the night in the hospital. Greg said that by last night, Z was doing OK and you'd really never know he fell as he was happy and playful in the hospital. Still, they wanted to watch him to be sure there was no concern.

Don't you hate it when one of your kids is hurt? It really doesn't matter if it's the kind of hurt that bleeds or simply the kind of hurt that effects your heart....it's hard to watch. I know Greg would gladly have changed places with his son. I know that you start to second guess yourself when they're hurt. Was I watching them well enough? How did they get into this situation? Is there anything more that I could have done?

Most of the time, though, it's really one of those things that happens in a split second. I belive it's mostly a result of the will. It's that "I think I can" spirit that I think is born in all of us. It's not thinking ahead and knowing that some causes have a horrible effect. Not that I think that a 1 yr. old can reason this way....but really we're not so different. He doesn't yet know how to think through the causes and effects of life. It's not in his capacity yet.

How many times do we, as adults, fall though because we don't "think through" possible consequences of our actions?

I'm praying for little Z this morning. I am sure this is one of many bumps and bruises he'll have. After all, he IS "all boy"! I'm thankful that he's showing positive signs of healing already. I'm praying for my brother and his wife as they stand by their son and nurture him back to health.

I'm also praying, though, that the lesson of this type of thing sinks in for me. Rather than plowing through life and living solely by MY will....that I will stop and think before I leap. Because I, too, have a Heavenly Father who does not want to see me fall and get hurt.

I am thankful, that when we do hurt...HE stands by us and nurtures us back to health.

Bless you, little Z!!

I'm Alive...and the COLTS are too!!

Go Colts!!!! I am so happy for Tony Dungy and the Colts. As I told you, I really am a fan of Dungy. He continues to stand firm for what he believes in...even in a world that sometimes makes us veer off course. What a testimony to his faith!! Truth be told, though, BOTH coaches last night would have been terriffic winners. I just had to root for the Colts!!

Now, I've received several email wondering if I fell off the planet. Nope. I've been away at a Women's Emmaus Weekend...a spiritual renewal weekend. I was working the weekend and am extremely TIRED...but BLESSED!! I promise I'll be back in the swing of things either today or later this week. I want to get around to check all of your blogs. I actually found myself wondering about many of you over the weekend.

Have a GREAT week!!

Thursday Thirteen

Thirteen Things about SUSAN's Brother GREG Last Sunday was my Brother, Greg's birthday. There are so many things to love and admire about him. Since I wasn't able to get up there last weekend...and I didn't call (I'm sorry)...I thought I'd make HIM the subject of this Thursday Thirteen. 1. He LOVES his wife and kids! 2. He loves the rest of his family, too! 3. He is a GREAT Dad! 4. He's also a wonderful UNCLE! 5. He loves sports...and has excelled at several of them over the years. In fact, we used to spend every Friday night at the football field when my boys were little...GO Cowboys! 6. He is gentle and has a very tender heart! 7. He's loves to laugh and makes sure that everyone is happy and having FUN! 8. He's a GREAT "grill-master"...love those hamburgers, Greg!! 9. He can put together "stuff" when needed. And, usually, he's undaunted by all the pieces that come in a box. 10. He LOVES music. I'll never forget "Countin' Flowers on the Wall" or "Ya'll Come Back Saloon"---some of the first songs he learned at age three!! 11. He loves the water and all the activity it brings. 12. He's not totally complex...he loves the simple things and finds joy in them. 13. He never gives up!! I LOVE YOU, Greg! Happy (Be-lated) Birthday!! If you're visiting today, can you drop by his BLOG and wish him a HAPPY BELATED BIRTHDAY?

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