Random Dozen: #4

1. Tell me the absolute best way to watch a movie. Personally I love watching movies AT the theater with a friend or two or three or five. But it never really happens for me so I stick with watching them at home on my own TV with a son or two or three (I don't have five--so I won't go there).

2. Do you ever think about your own funeral? If so, do you have specific ideas about how you would like it to be? Not much, but I have thought about it before. I want it to be a celebration of my life and the fact that I will not be dead...only gone from this earth and this body. I really want some of my favorite hymns/choruses sung or played there.

3. Are you more of a giver or a taker? Hmm...this is a hard one for me. I'd love to say that I'm more of a giver. I know, though, that I can be quite selfish and take too! It's a growing point for me. I try and exercise my "giver muscle" on a regular basis, though.

4. Vacations: planned activities and schedules, or play it by ear? I love the play it by ear vacation. When the boys were little we hopped in the car without much of a plan of even WHERE we would go. We had a wonderful time exploring small towns and doing things that were quite off the beaten path. Fun times. Today I am a bit more of a scheduler...don't know if it's my age or theirs that caused that.

5. What is one often overlooked item in your home that needs to be cleaned regularly? Our window over the front door. I looked at it the other day and thought "OH MY GOSH..." it's hideous and we have been having people over recently A LOT! It will get scrubbed this weekend.

6. Name a cause that means a lot to you. I love the work of ONE.ORG (see my corner ribbon). It's time to help end poverty on so many levels.

7. Do you eat a regular old peanut butter jelly sandwich, or do you customize it? And by the way, jelly or no jelly? I love a good old fashioned pb and j. BUT my Mother told me when she was little they would eat peanut butter and mayonaise. I know it sounds gross, but you cannot knock it until you try it. I sometimes will sneak one of those just for old time's sake!

8. If we were having a conversation in person, how would I know if you were nervous? Hmmm...I think I have a little laugh I do. My DH calls it my "fake laugh". I don't know if it's nervous or just not engaged in it. If I were really nervous, my voice would tremble...but most of the time that really doesn't happen.

9. Do you have an elaborate bedtime routine, or just the basics of tooth brushing and jammies? Strip. Dress. Brush. Bed. That's it!

10. Have you ever regretted something you wrote on your blog? I wrote a post a while back that I thought was a bit abrasive. I took it down. My boys told me, though, that I needed to put it back and that it was fine. I am pretty sure I did. At this time, I can't even remember when I wrote it, or what it was about!

11. Has anyone ever told you that you look like a famous person or celebrity? Did you agree? This is a bit embarassing. Yes. Someone told me I looked like Bette Middler once. I had curly hair and a lot of it, so I guess that's why. Anyway, I wish I could SING like Bette....more than look like her. (I wish my scanner was working cause I could put up a picture from that time in my life....and you might see it too.)

12. If you were going to dedicate a song to a loved one or friend, what would the song be and to whom would it be dedicated? Let's keep with my "Bette theme" started in question 11 and I'd sing "Wind Beneath my Wings" to my DH, many of my family members, and some of my very dear friends! Love that song and think about so many people when I hear it.

This Warrior is a Child

Years ago there was a song that spoke to me so deeply. Today I woke up singing that song and knowing that I needed to hear it once again. The song, "The Warrior is a Child" by Twila Paris, has spoken to me on more than one occasion.

By nature, I'm a fighter...not in a fisticuff sort of way...but in the way that I'll tackle stuff that needs tackling. I'm not afraid of the battles that go on all around us daily. I confess that sometimes I determine my "battles" on my own, though. I know that some things are not for me to fight. Still, like all human beings, I find myself in the midst of stuff sometimes.

Today, I was reminded again that I need to remember that deep inside my armor, I'm still a child...one that falls down and relies on God's grace every single day. So that's where my post is going.

Here are the lyrics of this beautiful song for those who may be feeling the sting of a battle today. Afterward, I've posted a video that I found on Tangle so you can hear the song sung by singer Gary Valenciano. Such a powerful reminder for us all!

Lately I've been winning battles left and right
But even winners can get wounded in the fight
People say that I'm amazing
Strong beyond my years
But they don't see inside of me
I'm hiding all the tears

They don't know that I go running home when I fall down
They don't know who picks me up when no one is around
I drop my sword and cry for just a while'
Cause deep inside this armor
The warrior is a child

Unafraid because His armor is the best
But even soldiers need a quiet place to rest
People say that I'm amazing
Never face retreat
But they don't see the enemies
That lay me at His feet

They don't know that I go running home when I fall down
They don't know who picks me up when no one is around
I drop my sword and and cry for just a while '
Cause deep inside this armor the warrior is a child

They don't know that I go running home when I fall down
They don't know who picks me up when no one is around
I drop my sword and look up for a smile
'Cause deep inside this armor
Deep inside this armor
Deep inside this armor
The Warrior is a Child

My Weekend Window

Let me first say that I WISH this is what it looked like outside my windows! It doesn't look anything like this, though...only in my mind!



What a busy weekend! Friday night was the "FCAT Dance". This is the dance that my school does for kids who score well on FCAT. It's part of a huge incentive program. It's a fun time especially because our former fifth graders, now in middle school, come back for it.

There's my DS 4 and his friend K. I have to tell you her face tells it all in this picture. Most of the time I would look for him, he was surrounded by girls.


I knew there was trouble when one came out of the posse crying! So I asked him, "A, are you causing the girls trouble?" He said, "I'm not doing anything!" I rephrased the question: "Are they upset over you?" To which he replied, "Yeah, they're fighting over me. I don't get it. All I want to do is dance!" I think the writing is on the wall with this young man. I need to fasten my seatbelt for sure!


Saturday night we hosted our church's first "Partycipate"...a sort of membership party for about 20 people at our house. It was a great time to get to know some people who have been coming that we didn't know as well yet.

I made my first ever homemade salsa and guacamole. Both turned out pretty well...according to my DS 2. I think it's so funny how everyone hangs out in the kitchen even when you have other spaces for people to spread out!

We will host another one of these this coming Friday. Now I'm trying to decide if I should do a different menu, or keep the one we used on Saturday???

Yesterday DS 4 and I headed up to Tampa to see my family. My brother, Dan, is getting ready to head back to Texas next week. It was good to visit with him and the rest of the family just casually before the hectic holidays start up!

I LOVED watching Amazing Race last night. This is one show that I really enjoy. So that is how I ended my weekend last night!

Now, it's time for a new and very busy work, school, and church week and the beginning of October. I have to say that THIS is what signals to me that I can start putting up my Fall decor. We will be getting all that down tonight. My boys know this is one of the things that keeps "Mama happy"!

Have a great week, everyone!

More Stories from "The Lot"

As I work in our school's parking lot each morning, I get to have conversation with kids and parents. But the best conversations are from the patrols who serve there with me!

Today A asked us all, "Have you ever tried to predict your future?"

Some answered, "Yes." Some answered "No." And others said, "HUH!?!"

He continued, "I did it the other day. And it told me that I am going to be a dentist." I confess at this moment, I noticed the spaces between his own teeth and I thought, "That's a good thing." Never wanting to leave us hanging, and not missing ONE breath, A continued: "And then I tried to predict my salary. And do you know what it told me I would make? 2000 dollars a.....YEAR!"

He paused here to wait for my "Wow!" And when I was still trying to process that he thought he just told me he was going to make a million dollars a year, he said, "I mean do you understand what that means? I am going to be a SPECIAL dentist!" (As my mind went right to missional work--he went on....) "I mean I might be like THE personal dentist to the President!"

Not wanting to burst this young man's bubble, I said, "Yeah, you could be the President's personal dentist. And I am pretty sure they make MORE than 2000 dollars a year."

He shouted, "All RIGHT!"

I think A's going to have a great day basking in his prediction. I know I'm going to have a great day just thinking about the innocence and dreams of young children.

I hope you have a great day too!

Random Dozen: #3

1. Please share one middle school memory. It can be good, bad, ugly, funny. Pictures or words, I don't care, just share. Hmmmm...I have many memories of middle school. One that I think is interesting, I found a few years ago in a box of memorabalia. There was an article in the class newspaper from our 9th grade year (we were in Jr. High School). It was what our classmates predicted we would be when we got older. My classmates predicted I'd be a marriage counselor! I laughed because I'm sure it's because I was the person with whom people often shared their relationship woes. While it didn't come true, I do think this is something that has followed me into my adult life.


2. What's your favorite Beatles song? Oh just one???? I was first going to say, "Michelle"...but then "Yesterday" came to mind followed closely by "I Get By with a Little Help from My Friends". I finally settled on "Hey Jude".

3. If I asked you to describe your most comfortable outfit, what would it be? My black workout pants and a t-shirt. I love lazing around the house in those pants...they move right with you.


4. Would you rather host a party or be a guest? Gosh, I LOVE hosting!!!! I mean I REALLY love it. I don't get to do it as often as I'd like. I'd host large and small gatherings weekly if everyone in my house liked it. I have to say that I also usually like attending parties...but the "fear of the unknown" sometimes makes me apprehensive. You know...what should I wear? Who will I know? How will the evening go? Uh...I think this question might be revealing a little of my inner control freak!!! ;-)

5. Do you think we will move completely from traditional books to digital ones, and if we do, are you OK with that? Nope. Nope. Nope. I like holding them! I need the pages. And the Literacy Coach in me just can't accept the fact that kids may one day not need them.

6. Do you learn best by reading, listening or experiencing? Experience is definitely best. Second to that for me is reading.

7. If you are (or when you were) single, what is the kiss of death for you concerning the opposite sex? (That is, what is one trait or behavior or habit or anything at all that immediately turns you off from considering that person a potential match for you?) Poor eating habits. And by that I mean, if I see your food in your mouth while you're eating....UGH! I can't stand that! Of course, body odor and unkempt greasy hair is right up there with eating like a cow for me.


8. Snacks. Salty or sweet? Salty all the way!!


9. Look around you in a four foot radius. What object is around you that you didn't realize was there or forgot was there? How long has it been there?
I am now in the Media Center on break from a workshop. There is an Eiffel Tower replica that I didn't know was there. It's probably been there for YEARS and I haven't seen it!!


10. What is your favorite Tom Cruise movie? Jerry McGuire..."You had me at Hello"



11. You buy a bottle of shampoo and discover that you don't like what it does to your hair at all. What do you do with that full bottle? Give it to my boys to use. They're boys, they'll use anything.



12. Your favorite Fall comfort food? (Last week it was beverage.) Without fail, it's PUMPKIN BREAD!!!

Hot Dog, It's Tuesday!

One glance at my bloglist tells me I should have considered doing a "Tuesday Meme". There are several of them out there. I almost gave in, but I really wanted to share our Sunday beach experience. Once again, I reminded myself there is no need to conform and I can just be "Me" right here.

As many of you know, our church has quite an active outreach program. It's rather "low key" as it's simply being out in the community being, doing, and giving random acts of kindness to others. When people ask "Why?" or "Is this really FREE?" We say, "Yes, it's free, it's our way of saying God loves you." And that's it. No pressure. No strings attached. Just a gift.

This past Sunday we took part in our second beach hot dog give away. Our first one was two months ago almost to the day. It wasn't without some fun as we had to weather quite a storm upon our arrival there.

We DO live in south Florida, which does have a pretty tropical climate. This means that a storm can pop up at almost any time in the afternoon. It also means that it really only lasts for a few minutes most of the time. This Sunday the weather fell right in line.

Here are some of our pictures:

The team set up at the picnic tables under the trees. We had 400 hot dogs to cook! The storm rolled in and literally to the left of us it looked like the first picture below and the next picture shows what it looked like if you simply turned a little bit!

Though the storms came, we were able to keep everything (except our people) dry! Twenty minutes after it rained, the team hit the beach and surprised people with this simple act of kindness!


DS 3 and I were talking and laughing about it and he said, "I'm pretty sure Satan sits around and thinks, 'Hmmm...that church is going out again...what can I do to try and stop them?'" I don't know if it's that extreme, but I do know that there is a very important lesson here that is summed up in a new Need to Breathe Song--"Even when the rain falls, even when the flood starts rising, even when the storm comes, I am washed by the water..."

Here's their new video which has a MUCH deeper message than enduring a little rain at a church outreach event!!

Lessons from the Front

Every morning I work Parent Drop-off. I love this duty! I get to greet families as they arrive at school in the morning. I can learn a lot about a child by noticing how he/she is dropped off in the morning.

Today, though, I learned a bit more about my patrols that help me. These are fifth grade students who open car doors and greet students. During a lull in the traffic, I overheard A telling R, "Yeah, the dog bit me on the head and almost went right through to my brain!"

She said, "Wow, that must have hurt!"

He replied, "Yeah it did. Do you think that's why I'm weird?"

Being ever aware of self esteem conversations, I said, "A, I don't think you're weird!"

R looked at us both and said, "Yeah, we're all weird in one way or another. So, you're fine."

And there you have it folks....a sweet little lesson from a fifth grader (who has more wisdom in her small body than some adults I know) to start your week!

Have a good one!

Sunday--FUNday!

Another week comes to an end. Or is Sunday the beginning for you? Honestly, I know it comes at the front side of all my calendars, but I think of it as the end of the week. Maybe that's because I work on Monday. I don't know.

Either way I love Sunday. It is the day we go to church and worship. It is often a day of family and laughter. Today it will be a day of all of these. We are headed to church this morning. After that, we are headed to our local beach to give away free hotdogs, chips and cold water. This is part of our servant evangelism here in our city. When people ask WHY it's free? We say, "Its our way of saying God loves you!" Sometimes that is the end of the interaction and others it opens up the door for some excellent conversation.

In other parts of my brain I have been so reflective this past week. I don't know if it's just one of those times when I am a bit melancholy or what. It could even be the fact that we've read and heard about some families in our area experiencing some tragic losses. Whatever the impetus, I think it's good to stop and really count our blessings. As I do that, I realize that my needs really are very few and my "wants" become so minor in the face of all I have.

By way of updates:

• DS 1 got to attend the UofF and UT football game yesterday. I think it was his first time. I'm sure he had a great time.
• DS 2 played Ultimate Frisbee yesterday for one of the state teams. They will now go to sectionals in Atlanta.
• DS 3 is planning to be in his school's airband competition. Thank goodness they are no longer planning to perform Vanilla Ice's "Ice, Ice Baby". Can't reveal what they ARE going to do.
• DS 4 was pricing out an Escalade Hybrid yesterday...yes, you read that right. He's still my dreamer...and, at 10yo, thinks that he could have one when he's 16. Whatever!?!
• DH is planning his next round of consulting. It's going to be pretty extensive. I'm so glad he is able to continue doing what he loves.
• I had an opportunity to really get out and surf some new blogs yesterday. I haven't done that in forever. It's such a blessing to meet and discover new bloggers!

That's pretty much it from my neck of the woods! Happy Sunday everyone!

Good Morning, Morning!

I'm probably dating myself if I write these words:

"Good mornin', mornin'; Hello sunshine; Wake up sleepyhead; Why'd you leave that bojangle clock so far away from the bed? Just one more minute, that's why we moved it. One more hug or two. Do you love wakin' up next to me as much as I love wakin' up next to you?....I'm the happiest girl in the whole USA; Shine on me sunshine...walk with me world....it's a skip-a-dee-do-da-day!"

Now that I've lost half the blogosphere, I just have to say that's my 1970-something way of saying that I woke up rested and peaceful today! My life is filled with so many blessings that it makes me smile!

And, just by way of education for anyone born after the 70's, here's Donna Fargo singing the song complete with an authentic 70's outfit! Yes, it's cheesy...and the song is even cut short, but you can endure enjoy it for the one minute and 56 seconds that it lasts!



Soooo....welcome to to the weekend! And happy Saturday to all!!

It was a simple statement...

My youngest, 10-yr-old DS 4, made a statement out of the blue on our ride home from school yesterday. "I think I know where I want to live." Knowing the value of conversation, and just a tad curious, I asked, "Where's that?"

He replied, "Right here in (our town). I like it here. There are beaches and everything you could ever need."

Knowing that he's heard at least one of his brothers make the same statement, and thinking that was it I said, "Yeah, you're right. It is a nice place to live."

Then he said the thing that nearly brought my car to a stop, "Like our house. I think I could live right in our house until I'm say...25 or something."

I had to bite my tongue so I didn't ask the question that I was thinking, "And so where are your Dad and I going to live?"

This is the one that keeps hinting at never leaving. He thinks he's going to college online and living at home. He promises me on a regular basis that he "won't leave me." I have to smile and say, "I'm so glad!"

Don't get me wrong, I love my boys--all of them. But I also love thinking there might be a light at the end of the tunnel and that my nest will empty out to the place where they are bringing their families to come visit us someday.

But I'm honestly starting to wonder if the older three will be coming back to visit their parents and their younger brother!

Thinking Out Loud Thursday

I've decided that today I just need to think out loud. Well, somewhat out loud, cause it's here on my keyboard that I'm thinking. Here goes:

* Data entry is not my favorite thing to do. I would have never signed up for such a job given the choice. Yet, this is EXACTLY what I have been doing for the last couple of days. It's not the end of the world, but I keep thinking about the "trickle down". The REASON I am having to do data entry at school is because some upload somewhere didn't go as planned, so now I am putting lost student information into the computer. All I hear is the wisdom of my Father (paraphrased by me): "A problem on someone else's end should NOT cause a problem on my end." Apparently sometimes it does!

* Social networking has been heavy on my mind this week. I have some friends in my social networks who are choosing to be rather bold in status updates/tweets. If you are a professional, I simply don't think your status updates should be negative about your job, your co-workers, or the people you serve as customers. No wonder employers are checking these things out before they hire!

* I work with a lot of kids who are from a very low socio-economic status. They are from homes where food is limited. Some only get a "good" meal here at school. You may remember my PBJ rant of a couple of years ago. This week I'm on a new rant. Here's a snippet of the email I sent to the director of food service:

My concern regards food availability for our kids.... I can only imagine that preparing and planning menus for school cafeterias must be a logistical nightmare at times. I guess I am also of the belief, however, that running completely out of something that is on the county menu should not be a regular occurrence at any school. And, right or wrong, I simply don’t think it should EVER happen at a Title I school where 75% of the students receive free/reduced lunch! ...

With 25 classes served, and 19 classes remaining to be served today, we are out of not one, but TWO main items on the menu? And we are down to one vegetable choice? I find that unacceptable! Not to mention that a child with dairy issues would have been "stuck" with peanut butter and jelly as their only main dish option.

* I know I'm never gonna' change the world to the way I wish it would be. Still, I can try! Maybe it'll make a difference for someone somewhere.

Random Dozen #2

1. Which is worse: a long, boring meeting or standing in a return/exchange line after Christmas? For me, the long boring meeting is USUALLY the worst. BUT, I've stood in some exchange lines with some extremely impatient people and that makes me crazier. At least in a long boring meeting I can go to a "happy place" and be off task without too much distraction.

2. Except for maybe Rosie O'Donnell or Ann Coulter, nobody likes confrontation, yet we all have to deal with it. When you feel cornered and defensive, do you "bite back" or become passive aggressive? Out of those two responses, I tend to bite back. This is not a trait I'm proud of...but it's the truth. Passive aggressive? Not usually. That is one behavior that I CANNOT STAND. I will tell you that sometimes I just get plain passive and "cower" into a corner. I feel like I need to put a clipart here that says "Beware, she bites!"

3. Do you know anything about your genealogical background? (What country, culture, ties to prominent historical figures, or other stuff.) My Dad and Grandma have done a wonderful job tracing some of our family tree. We are Irish decent on his side. My Mom's side is Pennsylvania Dutch.

4. What is the quickest way a person can endear him/herself to you? By being compassionate. I like seeing people care about others--especially when they go out of their way to do it. It warms my soul.

5. Cake, pie, cookies, or ice cream? (Note there is no "all of the above" option. You must choose one. Feel free to elaborate on flavor or memories tied to this dessert.) If you'd like, you can share a recipe, but you certainly don't have to. Cake! My Grandma makes a KILLER chocolate cake that doesn't even need the icing it's so good!!

6. Females: Do you regularly change your handbag to coordinate with your outfit? Nope!

7. Are you task-oriented or relationship-oriented? I used to be so much more relationship-oriented, but now I'm afraid that I'm often more task oriented. Sometimes this comes at the expense of people and that's NOT GOOD!

8. IHOP, Bob Evans or Cracker Barrel? 100% of the time it would be Cracker Barrel for me!! Love that place.

9. Have you ever left a movie in progress in a theater? Why? Not that I recall.

10. What is one area of life in which you would like to develop more discipline or organization? Exercise plan. It's one thing that I find the hardest to "fit in".

11. Was middle school fun or painful? A little of both. I had a great time and loved being with all my friends. I do remember some hard lessons learned there, however.

12. What is your favorite Fall beverage? Um, Warm Apple Cider (from REAL fresh apples)---not something we can really get here in FL. I also have enjoyed some hot spiced wine a few times...and would like to know how to make that.

Today He's Twenty

My blog readers and I have celebrated FIVE of his birthdays right here on my blog. My DS 2 is 20 today.

When he turned 16, I wrote: "I remember being 16. I was not nearly as focused or ready to enter my "next stages" as he is. He is already thinking about what he wants to do when he "grows up". And his dreams and goals are good."

On his 17th birthday I shared: "DS 2 has always been someone who (as my Dad says) "Goes for the Gusto"! As one of his favorite middle school teachers told me last year, "He's a complete package!" He is a joy in our lives! I suspect with this type of determination that he will be successful in whatever he chooses to do."

By his 18th birthday, we had a relapse of sorts. Some of you might remember the "Duck Debacle"! Here's a snippet of the conversation we had around that time---DS 2: Mom, I've got a question for you. Me: OK DS 2: Uh, what would you say if my friends bought me a duck for my birthday? Me: HUH? Like a LIVE duck? DS 2: Yeah, I've always wanted a duck. And I asked them to get me one for my birthday. And now they're looking for one. And I want to name it "Llama". Me: Ducks are DIRTY. They are not meant to be kept in a house. Call your Uncle Greg and ask him about the ducks HE had as a child. DS 2: OK, I will. {Note: He called but Uncle Greg wasn't home.} Me: Still it's not a good idea. I would NOT be happy.{End conversation...}

Some of you might remember the evidence photo of that memorable experience:

Last year, I shared this photo:

I also shared the threat reminder that DS 4 gave when he found out I was sappy about another one of my guys getting older: "When he heard I was a bit sappy about my DS 2 turning 19, DS 4 said to me today: "Don't worry Mom! I'm not going anywhere. I told you I was planning to go to college online. I'll live at home forever." (Note: I may need serious therapy cause I'm starting to believe it.)

DS 2 said he's having a bit of a hard time turning 20. I did too, believe it or not. It was at that moment in my life that I realized that I was really "growing up"--no more "dumb teenage" decisions. I wish I could really tell him my "dumb decisions" stopped on that pivotal day in my life. They didn't. BUT I knew that it was a time of transition for me. And he knows the same.

By the way, DH seemed a bit left out cause he never knew I had a "hard time" turning 20. I reminded him he didn't KNOW me when I turned 20. He reminded me that he hasn't had trouble turning any age and that we already had a son turn 20 and I hadn't told them about it. I reminded him that THAT son was pretty much like his father.

Now we've come to this moment. Last night DS 2 told me: "For the first 20 years other people are pretty much making decisions for you. Now, I have to make decisions for myself to determine where I'll go and what I'll do for the future or I pretty much won't have one." Exactly!

I am confident, though, that he is on the right path. It was just a few weeks ago that his Twitter made me even more sure of it. He wrote: "Be still and know that I am God!" Thank you God!"

To that, DS 2, I say a hearty "Amen!" Don't you worry about a thing...you'll be fine as you head into your next 20 years. Your Mother on the other hand, is a bit of a sap! But, I'm a sap who loves you dearly through every twist and turn your life has taken and every one that's up ahead of you. Yes, you can "Be still and know that HE is God" whether you're 2, 12, 20 or 200!

Happy Birthday! I love you!

Random Dozen: A Meme from Me!

Melli played this last week. I thought, "Oh that's cool, she's found another blogging meme/subject." Then when I read it, I found out it was from Linda's over at 2nd Cup of Coffee who I have been reading for a while. And I have to admit that I was then thinking, "Huh?? When did she start that? And how did Melli find it before me? (Cause I didn't think Melli and Linda even "knew" each other.) Then I reminded myself that I have been a supreme slacker blogger this past few months and really what did it matter anyway?

Today, though, I decided to jump in and play. So here you go:

1. What is something that you have changed your mind about either recently or over a number of years? Hmm...this one is a bit difficult right out of the chute! Oh wait, I know...I USED to think that TV's do NOT belong on walls and I am now thinking about putting ours up there. My DH and my kids are beside themselves that my mind has shifted on this!

2. Choose either subject, but does your a) church b) job feel more like a dental chair experience or an easy chair (recliner) experience? I have to say that I have been in both "a" and "b" when they felt like a dental chair. But, for me, right now they are an easy chair. I love what I do for my job and totally feel called to it. I love our church and feel it is really doing what it's supposed to in the community. Ahhh...time to recline!

3. Kisses or hugs? I actually typed "huts," which might have been a more interesting question. I'll take "huts" for 200 Alex! No, I like hugs... A LOT!

4. What do you think is the biggest threat to families today? BUSY BUSY schedules that rob together time.

5. A day after you grocery shop, you open a perishable item that is horribly spoiled. Do you take your receipt back to the store to be reimbursed or just throw it away and forget about it? I have to be honest, I have done BOTH. I have taken stuff back when I'm in the mood...we live right down the street from the store, so it's not a huge deal. On the other hand, there are times, I just throw it away cause I don't want the hassle.

6. What personality trait (feel free to address good or bad or both) do you notice yourself adopting from your parents? Um, my control freakness...sorry Dad! My worry....sorry Mom! My determination, love of people, and family focus....thanks Dad AND Mom!!

7. How many slices of bread do you leave in the bottom of the bag when you throw it away? Two? Three? Just the heel? None? (I really want to know if you eat the heel.) I have to be honest, I usually don't eat the heel...but I have been known to turn it upside down on DS 4's lunchbox sandwich to use it! I use it when it's in a casserole broken apart. Generally there's two pieces left, the heel and the wimpy one that gets bent beside the heel.

8. What mispronunciation or usage error really irritates you? I can't stand the their, they're and there OR the your and you're mistakes that I see all the time in status updates on Facebook! Makes me CRAZY!

9. In honor of the uniqueness of today's date, what does the numeral 9 mean to you? (Any special life moments attached to the 9th? Are you the 9th kid in your family? Can you count by 9s really fast? etc.) Absolutely NOTHING! It is simply one less than ten to me. I can think of nothing special about the 9th of anything.

10. Does the general color palette in your closet match the colors you chose to decorate your home with? Interesting, a few years ago, I'd have answered "no"...but today I have to say "yes" sort of.

11. When you're hanging out with friends in the kitchen, do you automatically ask to help, or do you sit there and chat until the host asks if you'd like to help? I'm not implying that the 2nd choice stems from rudeness or laziness, just not a first-response like it is for some people. I ask to help, but I'll be honest, when people are in MY kitchen, I'd rather them just visit with me...unless it's my friend Sandy bailing me out of my cooking "issues"!

12. Let's end on a pleasant note: What do you enjoy about September the most? The anticipation of putting out my fall decor even while it remains 100 degrees outside! My DS 2 was born in Sept. The fact that school is now really underway....All these things make me enjoy this month!

Things I've Come to Realize

Saw this at my friend, Elizabeth's Blog. I liked reading it and thought I'd give it a try.

Rules: Once you've been tagged, you are supposed to write a note completing the 36 "I’ve come to realize." At the end, choose the friends you want to be tagged. You have to tag the person who tagged you. If I tagged you, it's because I want to know more about you or I knew you way back when and am interested in what life has taught you!! (Note from Susan: I'm not tagging anyone, if you'd like to play, let me know.)

1. I've come to realize that my chest-size...is a stupid "I've come to realize" to begin this meme!
2. I've come to realize that my job...is one of the best jobs on the planet and I am 100% blessed to be working in my area of passion.
3. I've come to realize that when I'm driving....I'm more tense than usual.
4. I've come to realize that I need....very little to be happy and content.
5. I've come to realize that I have lost...the green-eyed monster that used to invade my thoughts so often!
6. I've come to realize that I hate it when...I set a goal and then sabotage it right away all by myself.
7. I've come to realize that if I'm drunk...then something is REALLY wrong since I don't drink like that.
8. I've come to realize that money...is something I like to give away.
9. I've come to realize that certain people...are quite passive agressive and I can't stand that!
10. I've come to realize that I'll always...wonder about my boys when they are away from my home.
11. I've come to realize that my sibling(s)...are so very special to me!
12. I've come to realize that my mom....gave up a lot for us while raising us.
13. I've come to realize that my cell phone...should be with me more often than it is now.
14. I've come to realize that when I woke up this morning/afternoon...I had bigger plans and I only accomplished a portion of ONE of them.
15. I've come to realize that last night/this morning before I went to sleep...I barely remember putting my head on the pillow!
16. I've come to realize that right now I am thinking...this is going to be a somewhat "short week" since I'm leaving Thursday for a conference!
17. I've come to realize that my dad...is quite a thinker and a dilligent worker.
18. I've come to realize that when I get on Facebook...I feel connected to people that I haven't been connected with in YEARS and I love that.
19. I've come to realize that today...is a gift to me.
20. I've come to realize that tonight...will be here before I know it cause time marches quickly these days.
21. I've come to realize that tomorrow...is a new day doing exactly what I love...teaching and learning.
22. I've come to realize that I really want to...travel more and take more risks.
23. I've come to realize that the person who is most likely to repost this is...someone who's actually read this far! ;-)
24. I've come to realize that life...is too short and should be enjoyed.
25. I've come to realize that this weekend..will be SO FUN as I spend time with great friends from work!!
26. I've realized the best music to listen to when I am upset...is something soft and soothing that I can sing to.
27. I've come to realize that my friends...are such a BLESSING to me!
28. I've come to realize that this year...is almost over and I can't believe it!29. I've come to realize that my ex...is non-existant since I'm with my one-and-only.
30. I've come to realize that maybe I should...try to overcome a few fears.
31. I've come to realize that I love...my life and my town and wouldn't trade them for a thing.
32. I've come to realize that I don't understand...aging and how it can ravage some and not others.
33. I've come to realize my past...has allowed me to help people who are younger than me as I've been able to share experiences and life lessons with them.
34. I've come to realize that parties...are FUN ways to connect with friends.
35. I've come to realize that I'm totally terrified...of not knowing what the future holds sometimes.
36. I've come to realize that my life...is more rich and full than I could have ever dreamed!

Book Review: Shelter Me

(Note: For those of you who choose to read Christian fiction, this book is a secular fiction book.)

I picked "shelter me" by Juliette Fay up while browsing for some light "end-of-summer" reading a few weeks ago. I think the cover is what first attracted me. It just screamed "warmth" and "read me" right at me! When I read the back cover blurb, I was further attracted by these words:
Four months after her husband's death, Janie LaMarche remains undone by grief and anger. Her mourning is disrupted, however, by the unexpected arrival of a builder with a contract to add a porch onto her house. Stunned, Janie realizes the porch was meant to be a surprise from her husband—now his last gift to her. ... As the porch takes shape, Janie discovers that the unknowable terrain of the future is best navigated with the help of others—even those we least expect to call on, much less learn to love.

The entire story is woven around this porch being built right in the middle of Janie's struggle to put her life back together. It is a beautiful story with raw emotion woven throughout. Janie seems to go through the steps that most grieving people do. She is at times angry and other times completely down. But she continues to try to make her way back to some sense of normalcy for herself and her children.

Little does she know that the porch, and the porch builder, are going to be so pivotal to her restoration. She also receives help from some other unlikely places: her priest befriends her and helps her start to get in touch with her response to her circumstances, her busy-body Aunt Jude forces her to come work in a homeless shelter/soup kitchen and Janie finds herself receiving when she's giving to these needy people, and the person that drove the car that hit her husband also contributes to Janie's road to healing.

At one point, she ends up alone with Tug (the porch builder) and she's quite miffed that her family was part of the plot to send them out alone after Thanksgiving dinner. I love the way the author describes the moment they leave the family gathering:

Out on Route 27, Tug inhaled and heaved a great sigh. The sound of his relief pulled her out of herself and away from stewing about the humiliation she'd suffered. Or might have suffered. Maybe. "Anger is so easy," she realized. "It's being scared that's hard." And if she were to heave her own great big sigh of relief, she knew it would be fear she exhaled, not rage.

Another picture I love is when Janie finds herself talking with Malcolm, a homeless man from the shelter. He is withdrawn and despondent one day and Janie goes to speak with him. She finds out that he has lost his sister. Here's a snippet of their exchange:

"Oh Malcolm," said Janie. "I am so sorry."
He handed her the cigarette and she took another puff. "Yeah," he said, "All's I keep thinking is, 'Now what?' Isn't that stupidest thing? I can't figure out what to do next. Like there is something, but I just don't know what."

Janie nodded. She stared out across the parking lot. He smelled like booze and pee and smoke and the most incredibly rancid body odor. But she didn't even care. "Now what?" she thought. "What other question is there?"

Janie's character is real and raw. The author captures this emotion again and again throughout the story. Janie is also forced to deal with the concept of forgiveness. While journaling one night she notes:

The more I think about it....the more I'm not even sure I really know what forgiveness is. Is it some big cosmic do-over? Like no harm, no foul? But there was harm--big hairy, serious harm. Robby doesn't get a do-over, and neither do I or the kids. Things are broken now that can't be fixed. How come the other guy gets a Get Out of Jail Free card?

As I said, this book primarily shows a very human response to a horrible tragedy. While there are snippets of faith throughout the book, it's not central. Janie has quite the language sometimes. The love story also gets somewhat graphic at points--but no more so than a PG-13 movie might. I kind of like that.

Of course, the faith side of me is saddened that this element is mostly missing from Janie's life. Hers is more an obligatory attendance at her family's Catholic church. But that's real life for so many people.

I like the fact that Fay is able to tell a story that is warm and inviting and emotion-packed without going too far or too explicity for my reading enjoyment. I appreciate the way she seems to use the character to figure out her own thoughts and beliefs on love, justice, mercy, and forgiveness. I found the book enjoyable and one I'd pass along.

Labor Day's Looming...

The weekend has arrived. It's a good thing to get this weekend so close to the beginning of school. It used to be that we kind of eased our way into the new school year, but now we hit the ground running. It has been non-stop and the break will be welcome!

DH flew DS 2 and my FIL to another city today where DS 2's friend S lives. She's wanted to ride in DH's plane for a while. So, FIL and DH took S up in the plane while DS 2 waited on the ground for them. DS 2 stayed down there so that he can play in an Ultimate Frisbee tournament tomorrow.

DH came home from the flight and took DS 4 and his friend, T to the Rays baseball game.

DS 3 left to go hang out with some friends in the neighborhood.

DS 1 is coming home tonight, but is stopping in to see some friends first.

Soooo...what does that mean? That means that I'm sitting here having a QUIET evening. Now you'd think I'd take the opportunity to turn on a "chick flick". Or maybe read a "chick lit". But no. I'm sitting here watching football. Sometimes I think something's really wrong with me!

I don't know how much longer I'll watch the game. I may take advantage of this time to finish the book I'm reading...or I may turn on that chick flick I've been wanting to see...or I may keep watching the muted football game. No matter what I decide to do, one thing's for sure...it'll be MY CHOICE. Once in a while that's a good thing.

The rest of the weekend holds a meeting tomorrow, church on Sunday, family picnic Sunday afternoon, and Monday REST.

I guess Labor Day's not really looming...the weekend is here. Now I just need to make the most of it. Happy Friday everyone!

Thursday Thoughts

DH is home after an 18-day work trip. We're glad he's here.

I read this quote today and I thought it was what I needed:

"Don't waste your life in doubts and fears: spend yourself on the work before you, well assured that the right performance of this hour's duties will be the best preparation for the hours or ages that follow it." Ralph Waldo Emerson

I wonder how much of my life HAS been wasted while I've sat in doubt or coward in fear? It's true that step by step and inch by inch we have to move forward and do the "right thing" in the moment. I would add, though, when we mess up--that's when we have to accept the grace that is extended to us.

Why whine when we're blessed?

I have to tell you, I can be a whiner sometimes. I try not to do it. I try to keep my chin up and not complain. But occasionally the whine slips through my filter and right out into the open.

If you read my last post, then you know that I've been a little stressed at work. I know that ultimately my moving is the "right thing"...but it DOES NOT make it easy. And it doesn't mean that I am not a bit emotional over the whole thing. It would be easy to get stuck in the muck and the mire, but I am making the choice to make the best of it and muddle through my emotions to take the next step in location.

I have to say, though, in the last 24 hours I have been the recipient of MORE blessings than I can count. Right in the midst of my whining!

It started with the food delivery and box top pile. Last night, I came home later than usual. My wonderful in-laws had dropped off "Grandma's Kitchen" for us...complete with new foods to taste-test. On the fridge was a note telling us what had been delivered. The thing that really got me was the P.S. from my MIL. She saw a mountain of General Mills Box Tops on my counter that needed to be cut. The P.S. asked if I wanted her to do that for me. I gotta' tell you this simple offer made me cry on the spot! Even though it seemed like a small "mountain"...I had been trying to finish the task admist everything else for a couple of days.

Today, my sweet DS 2 offered to come help me move stuff to my new room. Now please understand that this is the same son who helped move from my old office to my "new old" office just a few months ago. He got his grandfather, my FIL, to come with him. Right when they arrived, it started raining and it did not stop for the rest of the afternoon. Yet, those two did NOT stop! Thanks to them there is only a small bit left to do tomorrow and then I can concentrate on getting stuff put away and organized.

At home I had been preparing to host a Tastefully Simple party for my neighbor who is a consultant. I'd been promising her for months that I would do this. I had several people RSVP and ready to come this evening. DS 3 totally made sure things were ready to "Mom's specifications" around the house before I came home.

At five o'clock, I got a call from my neighbor (the consultant) who told me that she'd been running a fever and was getting worse. She had already had the food ready to go with the help of her family. My party was at 6:30. She said she was going to send it over and let us enjoy it.

I immediately called my friend Sandy who loves to cook. She said not to worry she'd be here to help. And she was....we just faked our way right through the party and had a blast sampling and tasting the stuff. My friends are simply the best as they didn't care either way...they are so flexible and helpful and just all around super people.

After they left, I sat with my boys and once again reflected on all my blessings. I think I'll count them tonight as my head hits the pillow...as I sing "You'll fall asleep counting your blessings!"

Night!

I think I can...I think I can...I think I can...

If you know any teachers, or you are one yourself, then you know that sometimes we accumulate "stuff". This is especially true for elementary teachers who are always looking for concrete ways to make a lesson meaningful for kids. I am no different. I have more than 3000 books in my classroom library alone. I also have many many other resource materials for kids and teachers.

This summer I moved it all to a new portable. My "old one" was being taken away by the district to be used in other places. So, DSs 2 and 3 helped me move over the course of two days. I spent several days this summer fixing it up and preparing it for both kids I would teach and teachers I would train. My boss even commented the first week of school how nice it looked.

Last week we found out that we are gaining two teaching units. One of them is at the grade level that is surrounding my current "home away from home". I do not teach in the regular classroom, I do a lot of support work. There really is no other "logical" place for the new teacher to go.

So, here I move again!

I am undoing what has been freshly done. I'd like to tell you that my attitude has been positive and willing the entire time. And, certainly for the most part I know that you do what it takes to make the entire thing work. I'm still sad, though.

Today I will be schlepping stuff once again. This time without boxes--because I had already disposed of them all.

Hence the title of this post. I need that kind of step-by-step "eating the elephant" thinking right now. It's how I plan to get through the next few days and accomplish the task set before me. The thing is, I know that the task is much bigger than moving stuff. I know that it's also about being an example with my attitude, my talk and my actions.

I think I can...I think I can...I think I can....