More Baby Cole...

I shamelessly stole these from Scott's Facebook album.

Don't judge me...

I just love this one.

The Blackmon Family

Thrilled to be an Uncle

Staring contest...you...me...right now.

...one cold and rainy Thursday evening...

I was the gym and I had been working out for a little over an hour when suddenly I started having an acute allergic reaction.
It started with a tickle under my tongue and then my scalp began to itch. Within minutes my tongue was swollen until I couldn't talk clearly and it was very difficult to swallow and my lips were swollen and numb.
I went to the ladies restroom and looked in the mirror. I had a red rash all over my body from head-to-toe.
I was really taken by surprise and wondered what in the world my body was doing.
I decided to try to go home and take some Benadryl or something. I went to the elevator and hit the down button. As I was waiting it was becoming harder to swallow. The thought crossed my mind: what if I am on the highway and I stop breathing?
I went to the front desk and told the girl, "Something’s wrong with me! I need help."
She said she would make me a smoothie..."it will really help- it has gluco-somthing-or-other in it..."
I paused and said, "No, I need you to call 911."
At this point I am crying...like a big baby.
She said "OK."

I felt like I was completely helpless- I couldn't fix whatever was wrong with me. I was trying not to panic- not sure how well I succeeded. I started praying. And then I started mentally (I think) saying my ABC's to try to focus my mind on something else. I have no idea where that idea came from. It just seemed like a good idea at the time.

I didn't have my cell phone with me because it was charging at home. I was driving our only vehicle and I didn't know how to tell Kirk what was going on. Earlier I had noticed our neighbor was also at the gym. I asked him to call Kirk and tell him what was going on.

The fire department showed up first and then the ambulance. As the medic dug around my forearm with the needle started the IV of Benadryl, he asked me how I was feeling.

I told them I felt like I was going to choke on my tongue.
He said, "I have scissors right here if that happens- we'll just cut that tongue out."

That struck me as humorous. Have you ever laughed with a swollen tongue? It's not very satisfying...but it did help me to relax a little.

The Ambulance took me to the closest ER. Once in a room, I was hooked up to telemetry given steroids via IV.

Almost simultaneously a woman knocked on the door to get all my insurance information I told her I didn't have any insurance. She said- OK and left.


Next a man came in. He said he would help me fill out forms to see if I qualified for a discount on my bill.
He proceeds to ask me where I work, what I get paid, where my husband works, what he gets paid, how much I have in my checking account, how much I have in my savings account, where I worked previously, how much I got paid there, etc...It was a real eye opener...I was a little annoyed.

Now, not only was I worried about my health I was worried about a massive hospital bill!

After two hours- I was very sleepy, but the rash had pretty much completely cleared up and my tongue and lips were not nearly as swollen as they had been. Thank the Lord.

They don't know what caused it. The Doctor said that it could have been something I ate, drank, a medication I took, or a virus. He didn't feel that it was environmental. (Shoot- I guess I am not allergic to exercise after all....) Actually, I was worried that I had inhaled or absorbed too much cleaning solution at the gym- they have spray that you clean the machines with after you are done using it. I spray before and after because I don't want to take any chances with getting the flu. The Doctor didn't feel it was the cause. I hadn't eaten anything new- and I had eaten a full three hours before the reaction occurred. I took Ibuprofen at 4:00 pm for a headache- but I always take Ibuprofen...so- it is a mystery.

I hope that it doesn't ever happen again.

Poor Bill and Kirk finally found the correct St. Elizabeth's-I guess they had been to a couple different ER's looking for me. Kirk was completely taken by surprise at the events that had transpired and I think he was a little bit in shock.

The Doctor sent me home with prednisone 20mg to take by mouth every morning for 5 days. He also instructed me to take Benadryl every 6 hours.
I am having second thoughts about the prednisone...scary medication.

Random thoughts:

• 
  
  I am thankful for my health.
  
  
  
• 
  
  I hope that they let me back in gym...I am a little embarrassed...I do not like causing a scene
  
  
  
• 
  
  My doctor's name was Timothy Love...yep, I was treated by the Love Doctor...Doctuh Luv...
  
  
  
• 
  
  I really don't like to be out-of-control of my own body. I don't like feeling helpless. It is scary.
  
  
  
• 
  
  I have new respect for my tongue- it really means business.
  
  
  

Unexpected Detour

I took a little trip to the ER and came home with this nifty little souvenir.

Blogging from my phone!?

Awesome! Except the pictures are not very good quality...I look yellowish.

Welcome Marshall Cole Blackmon!

September 29, 2009

Family Reunion 2009

Basically, we did a lot of singing and eating!

How can you go wrong with that combination?

Grandpa Roberts

Jacob

Grandpa and Greats...a great band name!

Singing the old time favorites

Mom and Grandpa singing together: "How Far Is Heaven?"

Mom used to sing this when she was a very little girl.

She is smiling- but I am pretty sure it was so that she wouldn't cry.

Zach enjoys watching his cousins play their violins!

Bravo!

Bravo!

Sunshine Girl!

Grandpa and Jacob...just shootin' the breeze.

Uncle Gary- thanks for the grilled chicken- it was wonderful!

Thanks to Jennifer and Chad for letting us use their guest room- and for being gracious hosts.

The guys being...guys

Hop on, Uncle Kirk...!

Rob Freeman- My Dad

Thank you Dad for being so good to us. Thank you for taking time to listen.

Thank you for providing for us. Thank you for being faithful.

We love you!

Happy Father's Day.

Pink petunias and such...

Another lapse- I guess I have lost some of my blogging fervor; however, I do not want to say goodbye just yet.

I have compiled a short- list of my excuses for not blogging more frequently:

1. At work I spend most of the day staring at a computer screen and typing. When I get home- blogging is the last thing I want to do- followed closely by cooking, cleaning and talking on the telephone.
2. I have been working for GBS as an Administrative Assistant to the VP's for the past three months and four days.

So let's recap- I live on campus, work on campus and go to church with most of the people I work with. NOT complaining- these are excellent people to be associated with...but it just means that my day-to-day experiences are not always bloggable.

Does that make sense?

So now that I have made my excuses I will share the news of this Marshall household.

Yesterday I planted flowers! I wasn't sure we really needed flowers...they don't last long and my practical side felt they were frivolous...in my heart I really wanted them. When I found a great deal at Lowe's I decided to go ahead- a great compromise for my heart and head.

Somethings are just nurturing to the soul and a window box filled with pink petunias is one of them!

Speaking of flowers... I have been updating my photography blog and it seems that all I have been "capturing" are flowers.

At first, I struggled to find inspiration in this city. Now, I am inspired but when I do see something that I want to photograph- it is very difficult to put myself in a position to get a good shot and not feel very uncomfortable and conspicuous.

Flowers are easier- but I want to do more.

So, I am trying to see the beauty in things that I would not typically find beautiful.

We'll see how it goes.

On a side note- that Majestic Palm I claimed to have killed has made a miraculous recovery! It is not at 100% - but I am amazed.

Our basement is still out of commission from the sewer flood we had...it has been stripped and is waiting for it's turn to be patched and tiled. I can hardly wait. It is getting a little tight upstairs.

God is good. He has been providing our daily bread- and so much more!

Recently, Mr. M. was given the opportunity to work on the GBS website as a copy editor. This provides full time summer work doing something that he likes to do and is very good at.

He is also working security. The campus may rest assured...he is NOT carrying a gun.

Tomorrow is Sunday and Father's Day.

I have much to say about Dad- but it will have to wait for another post...maybe tomorrow?

So soon?!!

Since my last post I've...

Had my Mom and Dad for a visit

Watched my nephew Jacob get dedicated

Visited the Newport Aquarium

Agreed to get a piano

Watched Bill, Kirk and four of his students carry said piano into the basement.

Had the rose bush removed from the front lawn

Got an oil change

Had a flat tire

Bought a new tire

Quit my job

Made a career change

Started a new job

Wear Church cloths six days a week

Found out that I am going to be an Aunt...again

Went to a John Tesh concert with Mandy, Sonja and Andrea

Made three dozen cinnamon rolls

Noticed a strange od0r emanating from the basement drain

Had my basement flooded by sewage back flowing from the stinky drain

Threw away two dozen cinnamon rolls

Moved my love seat from the basement into the kitchen

Moved my computer from the basement to the hallway

Gave up Internet for three days

Killed a Majestic Palm

Planted a Calla Lilly bulb

Had my taxes done- (finally ol' Ceasar "rendered (a little bit) unto me...")

Had my sewage soiled carpet removed from the basement (partially)

Moved the computer from the hallway to the kitchen table

Drilled a hole in the kitchen floor to access the Internet

Turned twenty-nine

Sipped an unexpected Starbucks compliments of Jennifer, Zach and Jake

Went to Verizon

Got a Blackberry (Happy Birthday from Kirk)

Organized my basement

Got impatient and removed the rest of the sewage soiled carpet by myself

Showered

Showered

Showered

Went out with Jennifer, Chad and boys to celebrate our birthdays

Went to a Pancake Breakfast at Kenwood

Wished my Dad a Happy Birthday

Watched an Easter Egg hunt

Planted three new shrubs, and some ground cover

Celebrated the love of SUGAR with friends at Cheesecake Factory

Celebrated Easter with family

Finally did a little bit of blogging

mushy stuff...

Daisies from my Mr. M.

a very lovely lunch...

...a sweet treat & coffee.

ahhh...

isn't love grand?

A Tutorial in Preparation for Valentine's Day...

I haven't posted since January 5th...!?

It has been snowing a lot recently. I have pictures to prove it.

Actually, I am getting a little weary of the dreary...

On a brighter note-

We recently had some sunshine come our way-

A group from Hobe Sound, Florida came through Cincinnati on their way to Kentucky.

They were a group of TLC teammates from a South African trip in 2006 who were raising support for TLC's upcoming mission trips to various countries this summer.

They were going to just pass through- but ended up staying a little longer due to the inclement weather.

It all worked out though because- even though they missed their engagement in Kentucky- they were able to speak to the Aldersgate high school students in an impromptu chapel- and several students signed up!

Jeremy was the co-team leader of the group. It is always great to see our old young friend-

When he arrived he could barely keep his eyes open- in fact, I was sure he would fall to sleep in his soup and "nearly divine" toasted roast beef sandwich. He did not.

The best part is, EVERYTHING is funny when you are sleep deprived. So we felt really witty.

After a few hours of rest... it was all we could do to keep him contained.

You'll be glad to know, Mr. M. survived this brutal attack- and is no worse for the wear.

Another fun thing- my mom sent me this really awesome coffee cup... for Valentine's day!

I know, I know- we are spoiled rotten...

If you click on the picture, I think/hope you will be linked to the website-

Just push the Play icon, and you should be able to hear hoops and yoyo do what they do best...

(I did not take this photo- it is from the Hallmark website.)

I love Coffee- and I love this coffee cup- it makes me smile. Thanks Mom!

Christmas 2008 Recap

We had a delightful Christmas holiday!
Mr. M. and I celebrated our third Christmas as a married couple on Christmas Eve.
This marked the start of our holiday festivities.

Scott and Ashley came to Cincinnati for Christmas- we had a lot of fun spending time with them!

Ice skating at fountain square...

...shopping...

...seeing the the lights of the city...and playing games!

We really had a fun and relaxing Christmas with Mr. M's side of the family.

Then, my side of the family gathered and we had another Christmas celebration!

Some snap shots of our gift exchange- we had some laughs...ahhh....good times!
Zach washing the dishes- it is never too early to start training future husbands...**wink**
The third picture is Zach giving himself a "round of applause" for a job well done

Jacob really got "into" the whole gift thing...

Uncle Kirk gave the boys a pair of his all time favorite footwear... Chuck Taylors!

Jacob will have to grow into his... Zach has a little wiggle room too, but he looked so cute wearing them!

Jonathan and his girlfriend Jennifer being creative in the kitchen.

Funny, but I don't think I've ever seen Jonathan so helpful and attentive in the kitchen before...hmmm?

Some more highlights of our time together- we had fun at the Creation museum, shopping, playing games, eating, and just being together.

Some of my favorites-

Greetings!

Christmas Trimmings

I love love love to decorate for Christmas- This year it has been even more fun because it actually feels like Christmas!

The temperature is dropping, the snow is falling, the porches with garland and lights, families gather...

...it such a special time of year.

All these things are just the trimmings of the holiday season- the main event is the celebration of Jesus Christ's birth.

This Thanksgiving we went to Illinois-

We (Mr. M. me, my sister, and her two boys) made plans to meet my parents at our cousin Rebecca's home- it was a mini family reunion!

We had a lot of fun eating, playing games, going on a fabulous hay ride, and keeping toasty by a bonfire.

It was an excellent adventure. I put together a slide show...

I didn't get very many pictures- but it starts with the trip to Illinois- mainly pictures of the boys- and ends with pictures of our breakfast with Mom and Dad Saturday morning before we had to say goodbye... until December 29th!

A big THANK YOU to Becca and Steve for opening up their home to us!

I've been thinking about Thanksgiving...

and gratitude. It is THAT time of year...



I really love the song Gratitude by Nicole Nordeman, so I decided to see if I could get the lyrics online- and what do you know... I found a video too!

I wanted to share it with you.

I just cry every time I see this slide show- but it is a good reminder that we are living in a world full of broken, hurting, THIRSTY people.
It is overwhelming.

Sometimes we wonder how can God stand to see His creation in such turmoil- how can it be that so many people in the world today are suffering unimaginable atrocities:

-The genocide in Darfur.



-The abortion of millions of innocent babies in America and all over the world.



-The orphans in Russia- over 100,000 children abandoned by their parents each year. "Social orphans" because parents either can't afford to take care of them- or have abandoned them because of alcoholism or prostitution. And when these Russian children grow up and leave the orphanages, many are totally unprepared to face life- they are left homeless, become dependent on drugs and alcohol-and so the cycle continues.

Many commit suicide.

There are orphans in many other countries with a similar story.



-The war in Iraq- 4,200 confirmed deaths so far and counting. Families are suffering. Husbands, wives, and children are feeling the loss. No matter how you personally feel about this war- you have to acknowledge that the cost of war is dear.



The world is in chaos.

People are losing their faith.

A friend of ours sat and talked with us for hours about how they just COULD NOT believe in God.

No Heaven.

No Hell.

They said the God they grew up learning about couldn't possibly allow these things to go on- let alone let some one burn eternally in a pit of fire just because they didn't "accept Christ as their personal Saviour."

I can still hear the disgust- the disappointment.

I've been there.

I never truly believed the lies, but I've heard the whispers-

I've been there.

I feel like I can relate to this friend's feelings.

The difference is, I have to believe that God- the God I grew up learning about- does not want these things to happen- I can not believe that He created mankind just so that He could watch them systematically destroy themselves.

God created man to worship Him- He created free moral agents.

What good is worship and adoration if it is forced or coerced?



Man took the reigns...we fell.

I have to believe that the turmoil of mankind is of his own doing-
and yes, as a result, the innocent do suffer.



But God didn't "throw in the towel" and turn His back on us.

He showed His love for us- His care- His concern-by making a WAY for us

to come back to Him.

I have to believe that when He sent Jesus, He sent us HOPE.

His cross made it possible for us to choose a different path.

It all comes down to that.

Free will.

The choices we make effect more lives than our own.

We have the freedom to choose Christ- to accept His leadership in our lives, and to accept the change He will make in our lives when we live to please Him.



No matter what the political atmosphere,

no matter if the law of man forbids it-

in my heart, my mind, and my will- I still can choose God.

What is there to gain? Everything that is important.

What is there to lose? Despair.



This is why I am thankful.





Gratitude
Send some rain, would You send some rain?
'Cause the earth is dry and needs to drink again
And the sun is high and we are sinking in the shade
Would You send a cloud, thunder long and loud?
Let the sky grow black and send some mercy down
Surely You can see that we are thirsty and afraid
But maybe not, not today
Maybe You'll provide in other ways
And if that's the case . . .

(Chorus)

We'll give thanks to You
With gratitude
For lessons learned in how to thirst for You
How to bless the very sun that warms our face
If You never send us rain
Daily bread, give us daily bread
Bless our bodies, keep our children fed
Fill our cups, then fill them up again tonight
Wrap us up and warm us through
Tucked away beneath our sturdy roofs
Let us slumber safe from danger's view this time
Or maybe not, not today
Maybe You'll provide in other ways
And if that's the case . . .

(Chorus)

We'll give thanks to You
With gratitude
A lesson learned to hunger after You
That a starry sky offers a better view if no roof is overhead
And if we never taste that bread
Oh, the differences that often are between
What we want and what we really need
So grant us peace,
Jesus, grant us peace
Move our hearts to hear a single beat
Between alibis and enemies tonight
Or maybe not, not today
Peace might be another world away
And if that's the case . . .

(Chorus)

We'll give thanks to You
With gratitude
For lessons learned in how to trust in You
That we are blessed beyond what we could ever dream
In abundance or in need
And if You never grant us peace

But Jesus, would You please . . .

Sigh...what a week!
Monday seems like a month ago- and I have no idea what happened to Tuesday and Wednesday.
Today, well... to borrow the old weather proverb, it came in like a lamb and went out like a lion!
ROAR.

But you'll be happy to know I'm in one piece, and Mr. M is in one piece... we each are in one piece- not the same piece... like grandma's stale Christmas candy... we are separate, individual pieces.
So I guess you could say we are in pieces, depending on how you look at it...

Mr. M. endured a lovely PB& J sandwich for dinner, I opted for the PB& H(oney).
It was great-but I felt guilty for not cooking.
He said he didn't mind... he said he was "not that hungry."
I chose to believe him.
He really likes me- I really like him too.

Tomorrow night we go to Butch Heath's marriage seminar-
It should be very informative.
My FIRST marriage seminar- how exciting is that?!

Hmmm...I wonder if he'll lecture wives on the folly of PB&J dinners as opposed to a home- cooked, hot meal...
If I really get convicted, I'll have to nuke it next time.

I'm tired.
Now off to bed with a prayer...
Thank You Lord-

If art Imitates life...

I feel like this.

Black Square

By: Kazimir Malevich

"The square = feeling, the white field = the void beyond this feeling."

I forgot my anniversary...

One year ago on Wednesday, I started blogging on blogspot.

Holy cow... I can't believe I forgot such an important date. *wink*

Brrrrr!

It is definitely sweater weather!

Besides the great event that is "pulling out the sweater and coat box from storage and checking each item for fit, style, and signs of moth activity"... we have been busy about life this October.

I noticed I had pictures documenting most of our activities and decided to play a little catch up.

Are you ready to be totally thrilled?

Oh, Good.

Starting off the month the right way- my mom- Theresa- came for a visit... I stole this collage from her blog because I am shameless!

While mom was in town, we took a trip to Indiana to see my Grandpa, Russell Roberts,and Grandma Sue

... and to let them see their great grand kids, Zach and Jake!
It was really special to drive around see the old house that holds so many special memories.

We also got to visit my grandma's grave-

Having Mom in town is always a treat- and always goes by way to quickly.

I finally finished my IV class... all that is left is to do my clinical work at Jewish Hospital- which should be done by the 30th.
I took some pictures of my classroom and of Mr. ARM.

He was a good sport- I never heard him complain once! I must be really good (wink).

October 10th and 11th GBS had Homecoming and Home Fest. Home Fest is when each college/ high school class, and the different college organizations set up booths to sell food, drinks and other goodies. Each booth is judged and the winner gets $100.00 for their class or organization.
Mr. M. is the High school Freshman class sponsor.
They did the Nifty Fifties theme, and sold Root beer floats and chili-dogs in the "Frosh Diner." It was a really cute idea. The parents pitched in and helped and my dear MIL, Sherilyn, spent HOURS working so diligently. We couldn't have done it without her...THANK YOU!

I am not sure that all the kids were thrilled to be dressed like nerdy soda jerks and car hops, but... Mr. M. had a blast! Unfortunately they didn't win- but everyone seemed to keep a stiff upper lip.

It was great to see Scott and Ashley too! They came for a quick visit and got to enjoy the festivities as well.

About a week and a half ago, My sister, Jennifer, and I went to Eden Park to take some

pictures of the boys and to let Zach run and play- two year olds have lots of energy, and he is no exception to that rule! It was both challenging and rewarding to try to capture this moving target on film.

Jake is five months- nearly six- and he is just the cutest little guy... his grin melts my heart. He was so much fun to photograph. To see more of their pictures CLICK HERE!

This past weekend we were able to attend Youth Challenge in West Harrison, Indiana.

As an extra bonus, Scott and Ashley came from North Carolina and surprised everyone!

It was so nice to have them here twice this month! They are the best...

We also got to see friends from Hobe Sound- It was great to see Jeremy, a wonderful friend of Mr. M's and mine. He was in South Africa when we moved from Hobe Sound to Cincinnati- so it had been several months since we had all gotten together- it was great to see him and catch up!

He seems to have developed a rare disease that causes his tongue to stick out whenever a camera comes into view... we hope this is not an on going problem for him.

And last, but not least, my brother, Jonathan, had a birthday yesterday- he is the ripe old age of twenty-five. He is attending school in Hobe Sound, so we were unable to celebrate with him- though we had him close to heart and mind all day...

HAPPY BIRTHDAY little brother!!!

Well, so far these are the highlights... we have been blessed with so many good things!

The Little Boy and the Old Man

(Photo borrowed from Raphael. Found at: http://tutto.stumbleupon.com/review/4904586/)

The Little Boy and the Old Man

by Shel Silverstein

Said the little boy, "Sometimes I drop my spoon."

Said the old man, "I do that too."

The little boy whispered, "I wet my pants."

"I do that too," laughed the little old man.

Said the little boy, "I often cry."

The old man nodded, "So do I."

"But worst of all," said the boy,

"it seems Grown-ups don't pay attention to me."

And he felt the warmth of a wrinkled old hand.

"I know what you mean," said the little old man.

"...Say it with a Slip."

So, I was browsing the the ol' www the other day and I googled "modest clothing"-

I ran across a variety of Muslim sites.
The LDS Church (Mormon) had quite a few too.
The Orthodox Jews had a strong showing... and even those wonderful southern Baptists had a sight or two.

It was really interesting to see the variety of clothing options each site offered-
Each with their own perspective on modesty.

In my browsing I ran across this sight called

Vintage Hem.

I am kind of a fan of all things vintage so I click- clicked...an WaLaa!
I saved some images from their site to show you...is that stealing? I hope not.
This image below is their "header".

Kind of Anthropologiesque...don't you agree?
P.S. - Anthropologie is one of my very favorite stores- if only to browse...and wish.

I am NOT a huge fan of camouflage- but I use it just to give an example of what a "Vintage Hem" is...

...you get the idea.

Take a skirt that on its own may be a "hair" too short for comfort

(or for other peoples comfort), and add a Hemmed slip like below.

Now the skirt is wearable.

(Below)

The Decoy

This one (Below) is my personal favorite.

It is called Eyeful of Lace, distressed black

I also like this one... Have a Ball, Black... lovely!

Anyway, I encourage you to click on any of the pictures above and check the Vintage Hem out.
They have many other options.

Let's all do our part to stimulate this economy...
Happy shopping!

...sidewalk ends

Where the Sidewalk Ends

by Shel Silverstein

There is a place where the sidewalk ends

And before the street begins,

And there the grass grows soft and white,

And there the sun burns crimson bright,

And there the moon-bird rests from his flight

To cool in the peppermint wind.

Let us leave this place where the smoke blows black

And the dark street winds and bends.

Past the pits where the asphalt flowers grow

We shall walk with a walk that is measured and slow,

And watch where the chalk-white arrows go

To the place where the sidewalk ends.

Yes we'll walk with a walk that is measured and slow,

And we'll go where the chalk-white arrows go,

For the children, they mark, and the children, they know

The place where the sidewalk ends.

Madison!

This weekend Bill and Sherilyn took us to Madison, Indiana for the Chatauqua (Fall craft fair). We had fun checking out all of the crafty thingy-ma-jigs and whatchamacallits. The weather was beautiful, and fair food smelled and tasted delicious. BBQ pork chops, red potatoes and corn-on-the-cob... drenched in butter... ice cold lemonade...

A little Band with a "Big Band" sound played under a tent on the front lawn of the Lanier Mansion, a local historic home.
They were really quite good ! They made me want to tap my toes.


The houses were quaint. The old brick homes with wrought-iron fences and overflowing window boxes were my favorite.
The store fronts on Main Street seemed to be from some other time when things were simple and charm was included in the blue prints.

Once inside the door of a particular shoppe- you are warmed by lovely scents of cinnamon, mulberry, and pumpkin- sometimes coffee too!

Madison is like any small town- it isn't completely without it's disheveled areas. But, I liked it overall.

Also, while in Madison I was happy to finally meet Sherilyn's brother, Carl Troyer.
He is a talented artist, and for the fair he had a little booth set up to do caricatures.
Of course Mr. M. and I had to get ours done!

As you can see- he was kind to us- and made us look better than we really do!

Thanks Uncle Carl!!!

By the way, I got to take a few photos of the local scenery- I will be posting them a few at time to my photography blog.

Ernest Hemingrat

This is my favorite comic strip...ever. I am not sure that I want to analyze my reasons for liking this strip too closely.
Let's just say, it just appeals to my sense of humor.
Naive Pig.
Megalomaniacal Rat.
What's not to love?


Pig: What are you doing, Rat?

Rat: I am Ernest Hemingrat. I am going to be a great writer by chronicling the every day happenings around me. I shall leave out nothing.

Pig: But won't it be hard to have every embarrassing detail of your life known to everyone?

Rat: Yes, Which is why I've decided to only chronicle you.

Pig: Me? But how will I be depicted?

Rat (typing): "Poorly," he told the fat, stupid pig.

Pig: Rat, I've been reading your work and I don't think I like it...I 'm always portrayed as a dumb guy.

Rat: Yes, well, all good writers expose and exploit the lives of those around them. That's called "our gift to the world."

Pig: Well, can't you at least give me a cool nickname or something?

Rat: Sure. I guess. Would that make you happy?

Rat (typing): "Real happy," replied Lardo, the drooling idiot.

I have not been feeling the itch to blog as of late...

...I have not felt particularly inspired.

However, a lot is happening in our lives.

Mr. M. started his first year at Aldersgate Academy the end of August. He is teaching high school English, Bible, Phys. Ed. and is the freshman class sponsor. He is usually pretty busy...but happy.

He had been sick the first couple of weeks of school (new germs and lots of them...) but is now feeling well.

FYI- DanActive Immunity, a yogurt drink by Dannon, seems to really work...
I snapped this picture on his first day...

He is now a month into the school year and he is enjoying teaching these high school students.

I recently started a new job also. I am working PRN at Judson Village a long term care facility (LTCF).

A HUGE shift in dynamics for me. Exhausting. Sad. Insane amount of paper work... not to mention that I have been doing home health for the past four years- usually dealing with one patient/client at a time. At Judson I have 22-25 residents each shift.

It has been rather overwhelming, but my Director of Nursing is really great and supportive.

Mr. M. snapped this picture of my first day...

Can you tell I am scared spit less?

We have been up to other things besides working. I have been spending time with my sister, Jennifer, and my two growing nephews. They are so much fun! I stole this picture of Zach from Brenda Herring's blog-

Zach is very energetic, outgoing and loves to greet people- he has an amazing memory for names. He is just a smart little whipper snapper... I think he is amazing.

Jake is 3 months now and thriving. He has an adorable little smile- I just love him!

I am also taking classes to become IV certified. It is an eight week course all about intravenous infusion therapy. (Pictures from the web)

Which reminds me... I have a test on Monday!

It is kind of fun to be back in school... awakening my ol' slumbering brain cells and shaking the cob webs from my belfry. Yep, It feels great to flex the proverbial "muscle" between my ears!

It certainly can't do any harm... or can it?

I concur with the rat...

Findlay Market

Last Saturday, my father-in-law introduced us to Findlay Market.

It turned out to be a very enjoyable experience for the senses-

The bright colors of the produce.

Bongos, saxophone, clarinet, harmonica and guitar-

street musicians in symphonic chaos.

A buffet for the beak-

fragrant fresh cut flowers,

the savory aroma of bread,

the stench of raw fish.

Bill bought fresh vegetables, and fruit.

I bought a round loaf of freshly baked whole wheat bread-

TASTY

&

simply inspirational.

Robert's Family Reunion 2008

Grandpa and Sue (above)

Some of the GREAT grandkids

Zach

Jacob

"Sunshine Girl"

"Li'l Guy"

Austin

Blake

Snippets & Snapits

Jacob and Mommy

Cousin Becca and Jacob

Sunshine Girl and Zach


Kirk and Sunshine Girl

Papa and Zach
Grandpa Roberts

IYmy family!!

Trying Something New

Mr. M. said, "mmm!"

Mrs. M. said, "ahhh... success!"

THE END

The Welcome Mat is in Place...

Happy Anniversary to Us!

...I promised him I would love and honour him "for better, for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sicknesss and in health"-

I still do.

PRIMAVISTA

810 Matson Place
Cincinnati, Ohio 45204

Food with a view!

I really wanted to take a "proper" picture of the view from our table but, for a variety of very good reasons, my husband forbade me from doing such.

Of course I am savvy enough to know that it would be ridiculous of me to pull out my camera-

**flash ablaze**

- and start snapping pictures in the middle of this

dimly lit,

oh- so- romantic,

fine dining establishment...

I would never dream of it!

BUT

I am not above sneaking a picture from under the table...

Ahhh- sweet compromise.

(Below) I took this picture after dinner- outside.

This really has to be the best view of the city in Cincinnati.

A side note for all you Skyline Chili lovers out there-

This view is the very skyline for which Skyline Chili was named...per my husband, per Wikipedia. **smile**

It was a lovely day.
And now you know.

Family Time

The Creation Museum

2800 Bullittsburg Church Rd.Petersburg, KY 41080

Since moving to Ohio, we have the pleasure of going to the Creation Museum twice! Our first visit was with Bill, Sherilyn, Matt, Sara and Chloe- and our second visit was with Jennifer, Chad, Zach and Jake.

If you ever are in the area, I recommend that you build this in to your itinerary...it will edify your faith.
Oh, and while you are there, I highly recommend that you take the time to visit the Planetarium- They have a show called Created Cosmos- it is really well done and amazing!
The Petting Zoo is great for kids- I even enjoyed it! The animals are so friendly...and cute...even Wilbur.

City Slickers?

Finally, I have summoned the wherewithal to get started on catching up!

A lot has happened in our lives since my last REAL post on father's day.

I have pictures by the hundreds- seriously- but, I will share just a few of them.

(Above) Thank you Bill and Matt for flying to Florida to help us move- we couldn't have done it without you!

(Above) Kirk- in "the zone".

Well, as you can see above and in the following pictures- the house wasn't "move in ready" when we arrived- But thanks to many, many people- it is now a very nice place to call home.

Thankfully maintenance fixed our leaky pipe very quickly. We have no more leaking pipes- as far as we know!

The leaky basement, however, is an ongoing frustration for us.

About 3/4 of the basement is unfinished- and used for storage. The remaining 1/4 had been "finished" to be used as a bedroom. Unfortunately- it is not possible for us to use it in this capacity, due to the aforementioned problem.

Currently we are using the dining room as a bedroom.

As you can imagine, there is no quick fix solution to a wet basement.

One thing I love about the Hilltop is that so many people plant pretty flowers outside of their homes. I have never been great about keeping flowers alive- but I decided to try it...again.

I chose Irish moss, bright pink begonias, and some purple flower- I am not certain what it is called...

The clay flowerpots in the kitchen window are herbs: sweet basil, spicy basil, thyme, and oregano. These are another experiment of mine.

So far they have survived me.

OUR THANKS!

I have thanked most of the following people personally- but I still feel that I want to publicly thank each of them.

Special thanks to my mother and father-in-law, Sherilyn and Bill for ALL the time they spent helping us clean, paint, patch, carry heavy furniture and boxes, for giving us a place to crash- and for many, many delicious meals.

We appreciate you!

Also, a BIG BIG BIG thanks to Matt and Sara, who spent there vacation time helping us. They really gave sacrificially of their time and energy.

Matt, thank you for being a drywaller extraordinaire!

Thanks also to Aaron and Lisa Proffit for helping us unload the truck and for making us a very tasty meal.

Thank you to the Fredrick's family for loaning us their son, Anthony. His help unloading the truck was greatly appreciated. Thank you also for the the food and fellowship- both were refreshing.

Thank you Pastor Durr for installing our light fixture! It is perfect.

Thank you Mark Foster for taking time out of your day off to install our ceiling fan.

Thank you Mr. George, Donny Hollenback, and all the other maintenance guys who kindly helped us in so many ways.

Many others stopped in to welcome us to the neighborhood- and all of them know who they are...hopefully!

Thank you ALL.

An Update...

We packed our little truck...
We drove many hours...
We arrived.

We are still getting things in order.
Soon, there will be pictures galore...and stories a mile long.

Dad's Day

Dear Dad

I remember how you would play the piano and sing Who Did? Who Did?

... and how we sang along with you at the top of our voices with little faces flushed red.

I remember how you "helped" me make the "Pepper Kiss" cake,

and even ate a bite...and proclaimed it good!
I remember how you prayed with us at night,

and comforted me when I had a bad dream.

I remember stories about the little boys

-who threw dirt clods at passing cars from vacant houses.

I remember how we used to tickle your sides-

...how you laughed and protested!

I remember running to meet you as you came home from work-

...when did I decide I was too old for that?

I remember being carried out of church asleep on your shoulder-

-sometimes pretending so that you would carry me all the way to the car...

I remember early morning rides to grandma's house-

The old red VW station wagon.

I remember sharing birthday cakes...

-and bedtime stories.

You could always be counted on to get any knot out of my shoestrings.

I remember trips to Spangles for hamburgers after our school programs.

I remember you leading the song services in church.

Sometimes you would tear up during a song-

- it always made me teary too.

You have a gentle heart and a kind spirit.

You have always been a loving father-

My dad.

My friend.

Thank you...

I love you!Y

HHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH

Happy Father's day to my father-in-law, Bill.

Thank you for raising such a wonderful boy- and for being a godly example.

You are truly a joy to know!

I feel blessed to be apart of the Marshall family.

Welcome To a New Blogger...

I want to welcome Jennifer, my sister, to blogdom! To view her blog, you may click on the photo above- or click the link that's to the right, under "Fellow Family Bloggers."

Looks Like Someone's Moving!

For the past three months or so, my poor family has been listening to me bemoan the fact that we are living in a maze of boxes and furniture- a real disaster area! I thought it would be nice for them to be able to visualize our pain- so I took some pictures of the chaos...

There may be a reader wondering at my taste in decor and at the vast amount of biodegradable- tchotchke I have strewn about...I assure you, it's not a fashion statement- it's called moving.

Of course most of you have already put two and two together and have cleverly deduced our situation from my not-so-cryptic title... good for you! However, you may be curious where we are moving and why, etc...Well, my dear friends, keep reading- all shall be revealed!

Mr. M. has accepted a teaching position at Aldersgate Christian Academy in Cincinnati, Ohio. He will be teaching four high school English courses, a Bible course, and P.E. He is very excited about this new position- and about the prospect of using his Secondary Education English degree. He is also planning to continue his own education, in hopes of obtaining a Master's degree. I am also looking forward to moving. I am uncertain where I will work, but I hope to work as a nurse in the Cincy area.

We will be moving the middle of June. We are both looking forward to being very near Bill and Sherilyn and also my sister, Jennifer, Chad (B.I.L.), Zach and Jake (our adorable nephews). We will also be a little closer to my parents, Rob and Theresa- it is always nice to be a little closer to home...don't you think?

The reason I have been complaining about the boxes for the past three months is because I got a little ahead of myself and started packing a wee bit early.

I started out thinking I would just pack a few things that we did not use often- but soon, I had a good sized pile of boxes in the middle of the living area...

It's not that I am so anxious to leave Hobe Sound, it is just that I wanted to make sure that I got it all done in time-

And, um, I think we are just about packed...

Mr. M. has been a good sport about it- even though he finally broke down and asked me to unpack some of our silverware- a man has got to have his cereal, and cereal requires a spoon.

Truly, I think we are both tired of seeing these boxes and we are just ready to get this show on the road!

The Umbrella

To view Rain Series I, II, and III- click on the picture above or the link below.

(Rain Series Part IV- coming soon!)

After much thought and internal debate- I have decided to "officially" invite you, my friends and family, to visit my photography blog.

The photography blog is called: CAPTURED- a collection of moments by Jodi.

I make no claim to know what I am doing- I just enjoy it so much, and I find it very relaxing.

It has been so much fun trying to capture these silent moments...

I hope you will visit, if you have the time.

Thank The Lord!

With a wipe of the brow and a sigh of relief , I am glad to say,
"Yippee! The catalytic converter is covered under warranty!!!"
Thanks to all who whispered a prayer for us.
And thanks to God for this blessing.

Auto Mechanics- Why I Love to Hate Them

I am not naturally endowed with a lot of patience- and I am too afraid to pray for it, lest the good Lord give me a little too much "practice". Either way, it seems that I am getting a lesson in patience, whether I prayed for it or not.

Our car, formally MY car, is the catalyst by which I am being taught.

Sure, you expect some routine maintenance and you know there will be things that you will have to eventually replace.

But, then there are those things that you try not to think about and hope they never happen to your car!

Unfortunately, over the past year, and especially these past five months, it's been one thing after another!

New tires, grinding brakes, the belts, a headlight, a drippy air conditioner, the air conditioner fan, the air conditioner switch, this needs flushing, that filter needs replaced, a week ago the new oxygen sensor, and now... the catalytic converter!

I tell you true, every time the check engine light ignites, I have a Pavlovian-like reaction and my stomach starts to turn, and an elephant makes itself comfortable on my chest.

These physical responses to the distress of car trouble are not only related to the expense that is sure to be incurred- but also to the complete lack of trust that I have for auto mechanics.

It all started in 2000. I was living with my parents in Newton, Kansas. I was driving my very first car- which was bought from my cousin, Becca. It was an old Dodge Spirit- I want to say a '92 or something like that- it wasn't new. The odometer had stopped at 116,000, and that was a year or two before it was mine; it had a lot of get up and go, until one day... it didn't. My dad took it to the mechanic for me. They said they could fix it. I had been working at a doctor's office as a receptionist and had been saving some money for the nursing program I was thinking about doing. I knew enough to know that car repairs could be costly...so I tried to prepare myself for the worst case scenario. It turned out that I had no idea how bad the scenario could get...

It was the universal joint-it was cracked, and I found out that it would cost $1200 to repair.

I was shocked, livid, and completely depressed! I was sure the car was not even worth that much money- and it was about all I had managed to save.

Gone. Just like that...

When it was time to go and pick up my car and pay the mechanic, I went in by myself. I stood at the desk and with my voice all shaky with emotion, I asked the man if what he had done was truly necessary...and I mentioned that $1200 was a lot of money to me... and I told him I hoped he was being honest...

The man seemed taken back a little, and he offered to show me the broken u-joint...I declined, saying I wouldn't even know what I was looking at anyway. I wrote the man the check and cried all the way home. I just knew that I had been duped!

Since that day, I have hated going to mechanics- even for an oil change.

You take your car to a "professional" and just expect them to be totally honest with you.

I suppose there are mechanics that are very trustworthy... I am not sure I have met one I would bet my life on.

As I see it those of us who know near nothing about cars have about three choices when dealing with mechanics:
1. We can TRUST them.

2. We can go and get a SECOND/THIRD/FOURTH OPINION and compare notes.

3. We can assume they are exaggerating to make a sale... ignore their "scare tactics"...and wait to see if our car blows up.

Anyone of the choices could potentially end up being a really, really dumb decision and/or a complete waste of time.

It's a very vulnerable position for one who knows very, very little about cars to be in.

It is an unsettling and insecure feeling to stand in front of a greasy mechanic and tell him, "I think I'll wait on that..." or, "I'd like to get a second opinion..."

However, I have done it a time or two...ok, just once.

Which leads us to my second traumatizing mechanic experience. This time the events take place here, in Florida...not too long ago...before Mr. M. and I were married.

I had taken my car in just to get the oil changed. The mechanic worked on it for about 15 minutes and then came back to the desk with a long list of things that my car ABSOLUTELY needed- in his expert opinion.

Well, I guess that was the last straw for me that day, because suddenly I began to weep uncontrollably. Not just tears, but that embarrassingly halting/heaving/snorting/sniffling type of weeping.

IT WAS MORTIFYING! The guy just stood there. I couldn't even look at him. Finally I managed to get out, "...hgg...I'm sorry...hgg...I don't...hgggk...know why I am crying!..hkuk..." and then I quickly ducked into the ladies restroom. After splashing my face with cold water and blowing my nose I sheepishly returned to the counter...the guy was still waiting. I do not know what his expression was- because I still could not bring myself to look at him, but he broke the awkward silence by asking a little impatiently,

"So...um...what do you want to do about your car?"

So now, not only was I embarrassed, but I felt bullied. I DO NOT like feeling bullied... so I straightened myself up told him that I came for an oil change and an oil change was all I wanted!

He gave me a look of disdain and shook his head, and said something to the effect of "...well, I wouldn't wait too long...you could end up doing some real damage to your engine...and if those tires get anymore worn, you could have a terrible accident...oh, and by the way, you need a new air filter and windshield wipers too..."

Though his "full court press" approach, including graphic descriptions of all the ills that could befall me and my car, was compelling- I stuck to my guns, handed the guy my coupon, and paid for my oil change.

...and then I called my brother to make sure I had done the right thing.

It ended up that I did need the belts changed- several months later. The tires, too- they were worn- but I was able to shop around get a good deal...at my convenience. I ended up replacing my own air filter- which was very simple- and the windshield wipers were a cinch too.

If you are like me, and you hate going to mechanics for fear of being taken advantage of, I have some advice. It's stuff I have learned along the way that may be beneficial to you...who knows?

1. Have an ally to go to with questions and for suggestions- whether it be a friend or relative that knows a little more about cars than you do- and most importantly, someone that has no ulterior motives. My brother, my dad, and my father-in-law are my allies.

2. Maintaining you car routinely will save you from major and costly repairs. Don't let your fear of mechanics defer you.

3. Trust your good sense...

4. In your spare time- EDUCATE yourself- use the Internet. If the mechanic tells you you need a new manifold and you don't have clue what a manifold is...look it up; research the normal cost, etc.

5. Check your warranty. Sometimes things are covered and can be fixed at no cost if you take the car to the certified dealer's service department.

(Note: a typical repair shop will not do this research for you...you may be paying someone a lot of money to repair something that could be done for free!!)

6.If a repair is not covered by your warranty- make sure the mechanic you choose guarantees his work and the parts he uses...ask for a print out of their guarantee policy.

7. And finally, don't be afraid of looking stupid... who cares! Go ahead, ask questions- and expect answers. If a mechanic brushes you off- go someplace else. They provide a service- you can choose who gets your business.

The moral of the story is this: if you have a limited knowledge of the mechanics of your automobile, you have to exercise your trust-muscle a little... and have a lot of patience.

My Date

More of the nephews...

My dear M.I.L., Sherilyn, was asking about how the boys favored one another. I was just thinking the same thing so I decided to find one of Zach's new born pictures and find out! Below are two pictures- top is Zach- fresh from the "oven"- and below is Jake. Zach had a higher birth weight and length than Jake... as you might be able to tell. Of course they are both handsome little fellows in my opinion.

It seems like it was not long ago that Zach was born...and it is hard to believe that he is now a BIG brother!

Little brother, Jacob...

In their coordinating outfits! I think these were their "going home" outfits- how handsome!

A tender moment...

(wipe a little tear from my eye)

To Mom, with love...

Music: Chopin

Welcome! Welcome! Welcome!

Meet my new nephew...

.

Isn't he sweet?!

A Week in Pictures- almost

Ok, so I bought a sewing machine. My mom is probably wondering about my mental status right now because about four years ago, at my request, she tried to teach me how to use a sewing machine- not only that, but she even bought one for me to use. Needless to say, it didn't take. I guess I just wasn't up to the challenge, and so mom ended up keeping the machine, and I- my pride. For the past four years I have proclaimed widely that I cannot be taught to sew.

But I digress...
The new machine: one night as I lay abed, I pondered the fact that it would be very helpful if I could sew. Mr. M. has some pants that need altered and I have a few things that need to be fixed occasionally... maybe I could even make some new scrub skirts... or whip up a curtain, or two. The possibilities were making me dizzy, as well as sleepless- so in my briefest moment of insanity (I say briefest, because there have been longer moments), and in a sleep deprived state, I quickly did a little research online. Meanwhile, Mr. M. lay sound asleep, having no clue that his erratic wife was about to hop into the car and drive feverishly towards Wal-Mart... at 5:00 AM.
I found a little machine on sale, it was the LAST one on the shelf, and it said right on the package that it was "for beginners...easy to use...any moron could use this machine!" (OK, I may be paraphrasing...)
I bought it.
When I got home, I sat the box on the sofa and dared it to intimidate me. I vowed that I would conquer it and bolstered by my over inflated self confidence, I quickly opened the box. The instructions were straight forward and I followed them religiously. Soon the bobbin was loaded and the needle was threaded! I thought, hmmm, now I just need something to sew...
I had the urge to sew Mr. M's shirt cuffs closed- it would have been funny, but- then I would have had to rip out the threads- and that just seemed like too much work.
So, instead, I decided to fix a skirt with a huge split in it- I don't have problem with skirts having splits, but this one was obscene. I had some blue material and I made an "acordian split" (see below because I have NO idea what I am talking about!)
Anyway, my first project went rather smoothly and I am proud to say- I can sorta sew!


After running out of things to fix...I realized that I could do crafts too! So I got out my card stock and started experaminting... below is my first project. It is a card. I would show the whole card- but I don't want to spoil the surprise for the person I am sending it too.
The stitching on the yellow ribbon is not my doing- just the blue thread.

Because I was spending so much time practicing on my sewing machine, my poor husband had to fend for himself for dinner- just kidding! He was having a little "carb fest" one morning- Note the serving fork he is using... maybe it is time to wash the only FOUR forks that I have not already boxed up for the move...?

Later in the week I was doing some laundry. It was such a warm day that I decided to dry Mr. M's shirts in the sunshine. I love cloth lines-
While I hung the shirts, Mally inspected my work... until she got distracted my an itch.

It was a good week. Full of surprising new challenges. With that said, I will leave you with this "nugget of wisdom" - don't "accidentally" cut up a pair of your husbands jeans to practice sewing on... even if they are old and raggedy. He may not want a throw pillow made out of denim after all... who knew?

Overcomer to the End

This slide show is for my husband. This past Friday evening was his last intramural activity as a HSBC Overcomer (more on that later...). I put this together using Smilebox- which I have never used before- and it is a little different than what I am used to using.

For those of you who are not familiar with Smilebox- I have two suggestions:
1. To keep the page from turning too soon, or before a video clip is done playing- keep your cursor over the picture or the clip.
2. If the page turns before you are ready for it to turn- just use the arrows to go back.

Make a Smilebox photobook

Pleasant Things...

The Swing

How do you like to go up in a swing,

Up in the air so blue?

Oh, I do think it is the pleasantest thing

Ever a child can do!

Up in the air and over the wall,

Till I can see so wide,

River and trees and cattle and all

Over the countryside-

Till I look down on the garden green,

Down on the roof so brown-

Up in the air I go flying again,

Up in the air and down!

-Robert Louis Stevenson

What??!

I was reading the "news" on LarkNews.com and ran across this article. Nothing surprises me anymore...

PASADENA — Four years ago, match site eHarmony quietly launched a new initiative, eHarmony4Kids, to help parents find mates for their children. The new program, whose tagline is "Play Dates, Life Mates. eHarmony for Kids," has worked so well that the company is rolling it out nationally this year.
"People want to steer their kids toward compatible potential life partners at an early age," says an eHarmony spokesman. "Core beliefs are in place at a young age so we can help them do that."
Parents in Nashville, Seattle, Sacramento and Boston were secretly invited to participate in the field testing. They had their kids, ages 5 to 17, take the online personality test. Then eHarmony matched them up with other kids they deemed compatible.
The parents did not tell the kids what was happening but encouraged email friendships, play dates and online chatting.
"We told her it was like having a pen pal," says one mother whose daughter was 8 when she joined the test program.
eHarmony also encouraged parents to form "affinity clusters" of half a dozen or more kids, any two of which were likely to pair up and marry, according to eHarmony's test results.
"Working in clusters allows your child to have some modicum of choice, instead of just ramming them at one other person and hoping for the best," says the spokesman.
One set of parents colluded to have the kids in their affinity cluster attend the same college. One of them, Kate Dockery, 19, enrolled at Azusa Pacific University where she and several classmates later found out they'd been "eHarmony-ed" by their parents.
"I felt ripped off," Dockery says. "They'd been parading suitors before me for four years."
She does admit that the people in her cluster "are all very good friends. It's kind of eerie how well we get along," but she says she would have rather found that out on her own than through eHarmony.
"I don't mind the whole semi-arranged marriage thing, as long as I'm an active participant," she says.
eHarmony does not expect the program to be controversial.
"We're just refining what parents do already," says the spokesman. •

Sunday Morning Cartoons...

I just happened to run across this on God Tube- it is not only really good animation, it has a message- hope you enjoy it as much as I did.

A Morning

A Morning

Awake against my will.

Drink yellow pineapple, inky black berries and greens.

Brush my teeth, my hair, and then practice a smile in the mirror.

Sip my husband's unfinished coffee.

Coffee will stain my teeth, I think dismissively.

Another sip of coffee.

Dress in crisp white and startling blue uniform- sensible white clogs.

Lunch, purse, keys, sunglasses, yellow sweater, notebook-

Things I need.

Another cup of coffee.

A deep breath.

One last longing look at my bed.

Out the door against my will.

35 Things You Could Live Without Knowing...

1. Cellphone: It's my ball and chain
2. Relationship: married and happy about it
3. My hair: long, dark brownish, With a mind of its own- that hasn't decided what it wants to be when it grows up- wavy or straight?
4. Work: Wife, Nurse
5. My sibling/siblings: one brother, one sister, one lives close, one lives too far away. We used to fight as kids...but grew out of it.
6. My favorite thing: computer
7. My dream last night: scary and weird- involved a lot of random people, including Barak Obama
8. Favorite drink: coffee
9. Dream car: I wish I didn't need one
10. The room I’m in: is dim and a little chilly
11. My shoes: are randomly strewn about the house.
12. My fears: wasting my life
13. What do I want to be in 10 years: a healthier me
14. Who did I hang out with this weekend: my husband, my church peeps
15. What I am not good at: typing
16. Muffin: blueberry
17. One of my wish list items: a bath tub
18. Where I grew up: Kansas
19. Last thing I did: typed the word Kansas
20. Wearing: skirt, shirt, etc...
21. Not wearing: socks...my feet are cold!
22. My pets: an outdoor cat...not really a pet, more like a peeping tomette. She is always watching through the blinds.
23. My computer: Gateway PC
24. My life: Quiet
25. My mood: Restless
26. Missing: extra room
27. What I am thinking about right now: What IS missing?
28. My car: is paid off!
29. My kitchen: is too small!!!
30. My weather: pretty chilly...
31. Favorite color: today?....Um, green
32. Last time I laughed: when I told my husband that I wanted to buy a juicer...the look on his face was amusing.
33. Last time I cried: when I watched Alvin and the Chipmunks today. The part where Theodore snuggles up to Dave after having a bad dream. It was just so cute and touching. (I cry easily.)
34. School: Spring Break!
35. Love: requires effort, patience, and commitment- tended properly, it will grow and flourish.

Happy Birthday Dear Jennifer...

Today is Jennifer's birthday. I wish her a wonderful year, and many more to come.

She is a loyal, caring, gentle soul and the best sister and friend I could ever hope for.

I love you!

Wasted Time

Time. It does not slow or speed up. The moments just march by unaffected by triumph or tragedy. I was thinking about how time goes by- sometimes it seems like a minute takes an hour and sometimes it feels like a year passes in a single moment. Funny.

I know this thought has crossed many minds- how many times have I heard someone say- "wow, time really flies... where did the day/week/year go?"

Sometimes I find that I try to rush the day along. The moments seem too long. I feel like I am walking in mud up to my waist. Slow motion.

Sometimes I wake up and find that I am already behind in this race called "my day". One moment slips into another. I walk out the door with my cup of coffee, greet the morning, and it seems in the next instant dusk is settling and I am walking back through the front door- day worn and ready for sleep. Where did it go?

When I was seven I wanted to be ten, and when I turned fourteen, I couldn't wait to be sixteen. I wished the time between Christmas, birthday, and summer vacation would hurry on by. When school was in session, I couldn't wait for summer vacation. When Summer days got too long and hot I wished for Winter and snow. Of course, I spent as much time growing up as every other child ever has, but I sometimes wonder... why did I wish those days away? I am not sure who said it, but this seems to be the appropriate to say, "Youth is wasted on the young..."

No matter who we are, no matter what economical or social class we may fall into- we all have the same amount of time in a given day. And though I have no control over the rate that time passes, I do know that God wants me to use my time to glorify Him. We are told in Ephesians to redeem the time (5:15-16), to use the time we have wisely by not letting the distractions of earth pilfer it away. Someone said that a life spent in sin is a wasted life. A life that is spent preparing for eternity is an invested life, a rich life.

Now, instead of regretting rushing through childhood, or despising moments of boredom, I mourn the time I wasted and lost forever because of my sinful heart.

That is dark.

However, I want to end on a positive note- Christians are not hopeless. We do not have to live in regret and shame. God restores the soul (Ps. 23:3), and He gives beauty for ashes (Isa. 61:3).

Ephesians 5:15-16 See then that you walk circumspectly, not as fools but as wise, 16 redeeming the time, because the days are evil.

Isa 61:3 To appoint unto them that mourn in Zion, to give unto them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness; that they might be called trees of righteousness, the planting of the LORD, that he might be glorified.

Psalms 23:3 He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake.

It Was Great!

It was a great birthday. Mr. M. took me out and we had dinner at Molto Bene- a very cozy Italian ristorante. It is not a "chain" so it had it's very own unique personality and the food was prepared fresh. It was indeed molto bene!



Mr. M. then took me to the Kravis Center to hear pianist, Andrei Gavrilov. It was beautiful and relaxing.

An explanation of the B&W photo below:
We wanted a picture together and this little "oldish" lady offered to take one. We were thrilled! I gave brief tutorial on how to use my camera. Her husband looked skeptically at me and rolling his eyes said, "This could take awhile..."
And it did. She couldn't figure out the camera which was ok with us- BUT, we felt bad for her and wanted her to succeed, if only to prove her husband wrong. =)
Finally... the camera flashed and sputtered... she thought she had succeeded and smiled at her success... and her husband looked impressed. We smiled and thanked her for her time. The picture she thought she took was only the red eye reduction flashing.
So we waited for them to leave and then proceeded to try and take one of ourselves...it is a little blurry, but oh well!

The pictures below are from www.kravis.org Check it out...

After we got home, we had chocolate cupcakes with rich chocolaty icing- they were very tasty... Mr. M. throws a great birthday party!

The End!

My List

No one tagged me... so I tagged myself...

What I was doing 10 years ago:
I was finishing up my last year in high school at Fort Scott Christian Heights, Fort Scott, KS. I was living away from home during the week, and going home on weekends. I lived with Denise Cochran, one of the teacher's from FSCH, and her husband. I was trying to figure out whether to attend GBS or HSBC. As it turns out I came to Hobe Sound..

Five things on my to do list today:
* I actually have a list...this is it:
1. Pay the bills
2. Mail my dad's birthday gift
3. Return an item to Ross- don't ask...
4. Grocery Shop
5. Go to Bank
6. Go to work 3P- 11P


Snacks that I enjoy:
Fruit: baked, raw, pureed, frozen
Cookies
Smoothies
Mixed nuts
Runts- a terrible addiction
Coffee

Things I would do if I were a billionaire:
1. Invest
2. Give to family, Church, Schools
3. Freak out
4. Stop working as a Nurse and have a family...
5. Travel


Three of my bad habits:
1. Worrying about the future, other people, my jobs, etc
2. Wasting time
3. Eating too fast
4. Stressing myself out...and everybody around me.

Five places I have lived:
*I have lived in too many "places" to count (...almost), but if you JUST count the Cities and States, it is a much more manageable list.
1. Wichita, KS
2. ElDorado, KS
3. Independence, KS
4. Fort Scott, KS
5. Pittsburg, KS
6. Hobe Sound, FL
7. Newton, KS
8. Overland Park, KS
9. Hillsboro, KS
10.Shawnee, KS

Five jobs I have had:
1. Receptionist @ Doctor's office(s)
2. Account's receivable and data entry @ Axtell Clinic business office
3. I worked at a sign making company- the made Realtor signs, shop window signs, billboards, banners, etc (I wasn't very good at it...)
4. Phlebotomy and x-ray tech.
5. Licensed Practical Nurse


Five people I want to know more about:
1. Sara Marshall
2. Cousin Becca
3. Mom (Theresa Freeman)
4. Cousin Karon
5. Sherilyn Marshall

Happy Flowers

Bang! Bang! Bang! Someone was at my front door... I peeked through the front window to see who it was. Curiously (and I say "curiously" because I am always curious when someone sounds like they are using a battering ram to knock down my front door...) there stood at my door a big burly guy- that- I- did- not- know- from- Adam.

I wasn't expecting a burly visitor, and so I was not inclined to answer the door. Instead I waited for him to leave. After he got tired of waiting, he drove off in a nondescript white-ish mini van.

I, still curious, opened my front door to take a look- Did he leave me a complimentary subscription to "Battering Rams Monthly"? Did Ed McMann send someone in his place to deliver that giant check? Is there a paper sack full of "you know what" in flames at my front door? I just had to know.

To my surprise, and relief, I found a lovely bouquet of colorful fresh flowers in a brightly smiling mug!

Hmmm... I wonder who this is from?

I immediately reached for the little envelope, broke the seal, and pulled out the card.

Happy BIRTHDAY

"Lots of Love, Love Mom & Dad"

Thank you, Mom & Dad! You're the best... beautiful fresh flowers make turning another year older something to look forward to.

Ever Had a Bad Day?

I think I have a sixth sense about how a day is going to go... I woke up just knowing it was going to be a bad day. Then, about half-way through the day I found that things were looking a little brighter- I was hopeful! I thought, This isn't too bad... maybe it will be a good day after all.
Unfortunately, it didn't last.
Blindsided.
A good cry.
Maybe tomorrow will be better...

Jayhawks Advance to the Elite Eight!

Tonight the gang (Mr. M., Jonathan, and myself) followed the Villanova/KU game via the Internet... I am proud to say that KU won 72 to57! Yipeee...
The hot cocoa flowed, cookies were voraciously consumed, and fun was had by all.

Easter Cookies, Mr's. Manly Muscles, and Geeky Brothers...

This week we have had technical difficulties. In other words, our computer stopped functioning. My brother, Jonathan, is very good at dealing with computers...(geek)... so he spent several hours fixing ours. Unfortunately, it ended up that he had to wipe the hard drive and reinstall the Vista Software...which means we lost everything that was on our hard drive! I know it sounds scary...but, thankfully we don't keep a lot of important data on our home computer. Also, we are thankful that on a whim we decided to back up our photos (several hundred) last month...whew! We lost a few pictures, but none that were too important. Needless to say, we have been reinstalling software programs and I have been feverishly trying to reestablish my little Internet cache of information...the thing I miss the most is my old "favorites" list...

My plan was to have a nice little blog for Easter...but all I had time to do is put up a dreary beach scene video...boring!

We had a wonderful Easter Sunday. I worked Saturday night, but the oncoming nurse relieved me about 15 minutes early so on my way home from work I got to stop and enjoy part of the Hobe Sound Bible Church's sunrise service. Due to the weather, it was moved indoors, but it was still nice. Julie Fuller sang, "Then Came the Morning," one of my favorite songs.
There is something about the early morning, just before the sunrises, that is (for the lack of a better word to describe it), magical? I don't want to be sacrilegious...but it is just a really special time of the day. So still. So quiet. So full of expectation and promise. What a perfect time to go to Church and thank God for the sacrifice of his Son Jesus. What a perfect way to start a new day.

After enjoying some of the service, I went home, put lunch/dinner into the good old crock pot, and went to bed! Later, Mr. M. and I went to the HS Bible Church's Easter production called "Journey to the Tomb." It was very well done. I was moved by their reenactments of key points in the crucifixion story. I could tell it had been a lot of work and their attention to small details was evident. After the "Journey," the Church provided refreshments of lemonade, bottled water, coffee, and an assortment of cookies for the weary, faux sojourners. I got to help serve the refreshments, and also eat, and drink them... they were very refreshing-imagine that!
Mr. M. happily donated his manly muscles to the cause. He helped with the heavy coolers, lighting tiki torches, and he did a little leg work too. What a happy happy helperton... I am sure he was hanging around the tent just in case we needed help- I am sure it had nothing to do with all the cookies...

All in all, it was a great Easter Sunday. Oh, I forgot to mention- part of my day was spent looking at pictures of, and reading about, your Easter Sunday and the projects your families, and Churches worked on... I enjoyed everyone of them. Thank God for a working computer and for my computer geek brother!

He is Risen...Happy Easter!

Hope you all are having/had a wonderful Easter Sunday!

I love picnics!

"John Paul and Jolie Churchill invited us to join them for a picnic at Jupiter Inlet last Saturday. The weather was beautiful and we had fun grilling, talking and eating... (If you are wondering why the can of baked beans is being tortured...) we didn't have a can opener with us so JP tried to open the baked beans with the "marshmallow -roaster- thingy -mabob"- it was a good try, but it didn't work. So, like the good wife that she is, Jolie stepped in and saved the day! Mr. and I had a lot of fun... Thanks friends!

"After the picnic we had a bonfire at JP and Jolie's...the ceremonial burning of the Christmas tree was enjoyed by all, including their dog, Noley ( I think that is how you spell it...).

And of course, you can't have a bonfire without s'mors! What a simply delicious evening!"

In case you were wondering...

I am 94% Addicted to Coffee

If you think you or a loved one may have a problem please take this test.
This message brought to you by: Caffeinate Responsibly- Caffeine, don't leave home without it!

To Blog Snobs Everywhere...

Before the late summer of 2007, I really didn't know that much about blogging. My first introduction to it was by Sara, my sister in law, when she made a baby blog for Chloe. Needless to say, I am not a computer efficienato...

My interest's or hobbies include: Reading good literature, some of which is pure escapism- and some that is not so mindless. I enjoy writing. I've found it helps me to live in the present and to effectively process my feelings. I also enjoy scrap booking, photography, and decorating my home. Music is also an interest- I do not play and instrument, but it is a powerful medium and I truly enjoy good music.
All of these hobbies or interests have been apart of my life for a long time and have repeatedly brought me joy and creative outlet.


Weblogs, however, are new to me. My short acquaintance with them has been sweet, and somewhat of an adventure...

I started this blog with the idea that it would be another creative outlet... and, one in which I could incorporate most of my other interests/hobbies (see above).
It was to be an outlet that I could share with my family and my friends as a means to keep us feeling connected. Soon, I found that others- long lost friends and acquaintances, even strangers- had found my blog. It has been great to reconnect with them and keep in touch with their lives via the Internet.


Now, I am no longer a newbie to this webloging business- I fancy myself a veteran, having logged several hours in pursuit of learning as much as I can about the lives of others around me... (Just kidding! Or am I?)
What is blogging all about anyway and how did it get started? What are the rules, if any?
One thing is certain- there are as many types of weblogs out there as there are types of blog keepers: Ma's, Pa's, kids, blog addicts and veterans, blog snobs, blog hogs, blog la-de-das, blog dogs (a little "shout out" to Tucker!) You get the idea...

It is like a peep hole into humanity. I have laughed with you and cried with you- I've had my "ire raised" a few times- (but not many).


Of course there are those of us that only blog our best, you know- the highlights. Those occasions that are special to us- our babies eating birthday cake, family gatherings, fun with friends, our favorite flower arrangement that Aunt Milly made for us, or our first attempt at baking an apple pie. You know, the things in life that make us smile and make us feel warm and cozy... the kind of news you read with a cup o' joe in one hand and the mouse in the other.

Others choose to use there blog as medium to share more serious news, and to impart wisdom to other bloggers in blogdom- I occasionally enjoy these weblogs. They make me sit up a bit straighter in my very uncomfortable desk chair and take note! (Coffee optional...)

Others are a mixture of the the twain... and still there are countless other varieties!

So again, what is the purpose of a blog?

In my opinion, a weblog is like a home... (don't broil me- I realize it is not a perfect analogy!) whether or not you decide to make it "private" or "public" is totally up to you. You can decorate it to your liking and fill it up with all those happy, or not-so-happy memories, pictures, thoughts, feelings, and opinions. YOU are the Queen/ King of your virtual castle...
Of course, if we choose to have a "open door policy", it behooves us to exercise good judgment and to remember that there could be any number of eyes peering through that proverbial peep hole.

And, I might add- when visiting other sights- if you don't enjoy reading someones meanderings, or looking at photographs of children eating birthday cake, or admiring Aunt Milly's prize winning hydrangeas... stop making a fuss and go find a more suitable weblog for your discerning tastes...

(*coughBlogSnob!cough*)

More pictures from this week....

Fun at the pool...

Zach was fine in the water, but he really wanted his mommy to hold onto... even if it was just her finger.
Later that day the ladies attended the Women of Worth dinner. Below are the two "pregers". Misty who has 8 weeks to go and my sis who has about 10 weeks left!
The ladies at my table included: My sis, Little miss Alaina, Robyn, Bev, Misty, Melissa, little miss Emily, and Talitha.
Little Miss Emily...

The Picnic!

For those that care to read the captions, you may want to click on the pictures for a larger view... unless you have exceptional vision- or are a "closet" superhero with magna-vision... you know who you are!

(The Picture above is of my sister holding Zach. I thought it was so precious!)

The Beach...

When my mom was here for campmeeting we got to visit the beach for about an hour. No one should come all the way to Florida without visiting the ocean at least once! We only stayed for about an hour and it went by really fast! It was a beautiful day...

If you want to actually hear the waves you should visit my mom's site where I posted a video... or two... against her will... (!)

My Funny Valentine

It was a nice Valentine's day! Of course with campmeeting, school, work, company, and all- it was a little bit busy...

Even so, the Mr. and I found some time to spend together.

After we (and both of our mothers...which, by the way, we are delighted to have staying with us this week) dropped Matt off at the airport, the four of us decided to run over to the mall for an hour before it closed... just for fun. While our mothers did a little bargin hunting, Mr. M. and I had ourselves a mini date... and it just so happened that I got to fulfill a life long dream which was to get those silly "photo-booth" pics taken at the mall!

After our "photo shoot" we really went wild and purchased an ice cream treat out of the Blue Bunny vending machine... I got one of those red, white and blue popsicles, and he got a strawberry shortcake creamsicle... it was awesome!

As we sat on a bench in the middle of the mall eating our treats, we talked and laughed about our little date... and thourghly enjoyed just being together. I can honestly say... in all my life I have yet to meet anyone whose company I enjoy more than my Mister's.

I know it seems like we went overboard this Valentine's... but frankly, sometimes you just have to live a little.

Happy Valentine's Day...

To my Sweetheart, Mr. M.

Will you be my Valentine?

Love, Mrs. M.

Mom

My mom is here to visit us... and to attend campmeeting. I like to think she is mainly here to see us... It is going to be so much fun!

Faithful One

The following two songs are samples from a recording of my cousin, Rebecca.

She, her husband, and children are currently living "abroad" working through World Hope International which is a faith based relief and development organization that strives to alleviate suffering and injustice through education, enterprise and community health.

Her husband teaches English, and Rebecca has a ministry among the women...it is a very tense situation living where they do... but God has led them to this place, and He is FAITHFUL. Please remember them in your prayers.

If you are interested in supporting their ministry by purchasing the entire CD, contact me and I will direct you to someone who can help you do this. 100% of proceeds go to their ministry.

Enjoy!

Song #1: Faithful One

Song #2: San Dunyaya

(FOR BEST RESULTS, PAUSE BLOG MUSIC BEFORE STARTING...)

Psalms 46:1-3 God is our refuge and strength, an ever present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea, though its waters roar and foam and the mountains quake with their surging.

Psalms 18:2 The Lord is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock in whom I take refuge. He is my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.

Psalms 27:14 Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord.

John 16:33 I have told you these things, so that in me your may have peace. In this world you
will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.

Josua 1:9 Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.

Joshua 1:5 As I was with Moses, so I will be with you; I will never leave you nor forsake you.

Psalm 18:2 The Lord is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge. He is my shield and the horn on my salvation, my stronghold.

Proverbs 3:5,6 Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your path straight.

Lamentations 3:22, 23 Because of the Lord's great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.

Hebrew 10:23 Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is
faithful.

Mally the Alley Cat

I am not fond of the feline population.


Maybe it has something to do with the fact that at an early age I developed an allergy to them...


Maybe it is because, at around the same age that I developed those pesky allergies, I was informed of the "fact" (actually an old wives tale...) that cats could, and most certainly would, if given the chance, suck the milky breath of life away from a new born infant.

Or, maybe it is just because I watched Lady and the Tramp during my impressionable years... Do you remember Aunt Sarah's two Siamese cats, Si and Am? If you do great... if not, here is a brief recap: Si and Am created all sorts of mischief and caused all sorts of trouble for Lady (the dog heroine of the movie). Lady manages to keep the goldfish and canary safe from harm, but she begins to bark when the two cats go up the stairs to see the baby (!) and try and steal its milk. Lady ends up "scaring" Si and Am and when Aunt Sarah happens along, they pretend they are hurt. Aunt Sarah then takes Lady to a pet shop to have her fitted with a muzzle, but Lady escapes the shop...and so the story continues...


I hated that part of the movie! It was so unjust...and, needless to say, at a very early age my regard for cats hit rock bottom.


When Mr. M's parents, Bill and Sherilyn, lived here, they had this very vicious "outside" cat...Mally.* I don't know if they bought her or if she just started hanging around their house, but Sherilyn has a very soft heart for animals...except birds**...and she was faithful to feed Mally. To reciprocate her mutual feelings of respect and admiration, Mally would leave her latest "conquests"- various species of fowl and field mice- on the door step...
much to the chagrin of the household.


When the Marshall's moved, Mally sort of disappeared. She was always very independent and was not at all domesticated... but Sherilyn felt bad for Mally and worried about her. She would often ask if we had seen her. We assured her, No, no we haven't seen her, I am sure she is doing fine...living like a jungle cat...eating like a king...


One day Mr. M was walking to school when Mally appeared! She walked around him and snuggled up to his legs...
Most people would take this as an invitation to reach down and pet the "friendly" cat...but he knew better... reach down and pet this cat and you may lose a finger!


Nevertheless, Mr. M was beside himself with excitement. Mally had found him (think theme music from Homeward Bound...) and remembered him! He immediately called his Dad/Mom to share this joyous news.


Now we have a cat.


This is our arrangement: she jumps up onto our window seal, taps the window with her tail, and posthaste we give her some food. She then vigilantly guards our stoop during the night.
In the morning she is gone...exploring her jungle, I guess.

Often I will catch a glimpse of two flashing eyes peering through the blinds into our living room. At first it really freaked me out. But now whenever I get the feeling that "someone is watching me"- I know I am not being paranoid... it's just Mally.


Mally. She is the perfect cat for me. She doesn't asked to be cuddled and held... she would rather not be. All she wants is a family to belong to... a home base, so to speak, and maybe a little Kit Kaboodle.***

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

* Name short for Malicious.

**She has a fear of birds...no malevolent tendencies towards the aforementioned.

***Purina brand cat food.

Ode to Aerolatte...

I have been enjoying one of my Christmas gifts on a daily basis...my aerolatte. It is one of the greatest gadgets ever invented!
This battery operated piece of mechanical ingenuity is able to magically turn an ordinary cup of "Joe" (and a dash of International Delight creamer) into a light and frothy latte that is worthy of the hefty price tag other coffee joints (scavengers) place on their overrated, rather bitter selection.
I highly recommend mass hysteria over this product...

Post Script

Originally, I wanted to create & post a movie/slide show to share our Christmas adventures...but, I knew it would take me too long to get it all together
(not to mention the fact that the music I wanted to use was in Mr. M's Christmas stocking just waiting to be discovered...).
So, I did a mini slide show...without music, etc. However, after I convinced Mr. M. to open "just one" stocking stuffer a little bit early... I went ahead with my original plan, and now it is finished.
Although a lot of these pics were in my original mini slide show...(sorry)...I just had to post them again.
Why?
Because, by George, this is MY BLOG...and I can do whatever I please!
Besides, I promise... this is the last time I will post any of these Christmas photos.
Thanks again to all our wonderful family members for making Christmas such a great time.
We love and miss everyone of you!

For best results pause the blog music before starting...

2008...Here We Come!

2007 has passed. Resolutions have been made. Diets have commenced (or recommenced). School is back in session.

The tree no longer looms magically in the corner filling the mind with poignant memories of Christmas past...now it serves as 6.5 foot, not-so-subtle, reminder that Christmas is over and redecorating is in order... soon!

I toyed with the idea of highlighting or recapping all of lasts year's "major" events (like finding those really cute shoes on sale the day after Thanksgiving)...but I won't because, one, I am too tired to think, and two, I can't remember the second reason.


This I do remember: it was a good year. So many memories were made and are apparently stored deep in the recesses of my ever aging mind...fortunately, I have discovered that most memories grow better with age...like cheese!

So for now, I will let last year's events simmer...like a thick, hearty marinara sauce...



...is anyone else hungry?

A Holiday in Ohio...

This holiday season, Mr. M. and I have been extremely blessed to have the opportunity to visit both sides of our family!

We just got back from Ohio where we stayed with my husband's family for a few days. It was so great to see them! I also got to meet my husband's grandma, Evelyn, for the first time.

The trip was quick, but thoroughly enjoyable!
I hope you enjoy the slides...

The Story of a Little Girl...

This is a little video slide show that I put together for my adorable niece on the occasion of her first birthday. It is a cliche to say, but time goes by so quickly. This slide show chronicles her growth over the past year.

She is a very special little girl. Uncle M. and I miss having her (and her parents) close by. And, though we try to keep up with them through their blog (which Sara has done an awesome job at maintaining, I might add!) it will be so nice to really catch up when we see them next week!

To see more of the Matt Marshall family, click here: http://www.mattmarshallfamily.blogspot.com/

Note: For best results, you may want to pause the Christmas music that is playing before starting this video.

Enjoy!

A Little Christmas Spirit...

Preparing for Christmas...

The tree has been decorated; the stockings have been hung...

This year's ornament is displayed front and center.

The annual portrait in front of the tree has been shot.

Merry CHRISTmas!

For there is born to you this day in the city of David a
Savior, who is Christ the Lord... Glory to
God in the Highest, And on earth peace, goodwill toward
men!

Luke 2:11 & 14

Happy ChristGiving!

Over Thanksgiving Mr. M and I went to my parent's home. We combined our Thanksgiving celebrations with Christmas...thus, it was dubbed "ChristGiving".

We had a wonderful stay and my only complaint was that our time there was too brief.

I am thankful for a really kind and loving family. Please enjoy some snap shots of our holiday...

Emma Lou... We MissYou!

May 11, 1922 - November 13, 1989

http://www.thedashpoemmovie.com/

Things I Remember

She was many things to many people in her lifetime. She was a daughter, a helpmate, a mother to her three children, a pastor's wife, a camp cook, and a craft maker extraordinaire... She was my Grandma.

When I was nine years old my Grandma went to be with Jesus. I remember where I was the moment I was told and I remember her funeral service.

I remember the dress my sister wore that day- I don't know why.

I remember going to the grave side service after the funeral.

I remember that it had snowed and how cold I felt. I remember knowing that Grandma wouldn't be cold anymore.

I remember picking up some clay from her grave site. I took it back to Grandpa's house and put it in a plastic sandwich bag... For some reason I guess I thought Grandpa would want to have it. I never did give it to him...

I remember Grandma's steel gray hair and how she fixed it in an arrangement of large rolled curls in the back and how it gracefully "poofed" in the front. I remember watching Mom fix Grandma's hair one time when she couldn't physically do it herself.

I remember Grandma's brown eyes... In my memory they are very much the same as my mom's eyes. Sometimes they would kind of flash and spark when she caught us grand kids being "ornery".

I can remember her grin...it lit up her face, and crinkled her nose a bit.

I remember her voice (at least I think I can). I remember how she would speak with her "Kentuckian" accent. I can hear her now: "Now get on yonder before I take a switch to you!"

She had spunk!

Whenever I hear my Aunt Margie's voice I think of Grandma's. Their voices are similar to me. Somewhere there is a recording of Grandpa and Grandma singing at a camp meeting...I got to listen to it once...it made me smile.

I remember the perfume bottle collection she had displayed on hanging shelves in the bedroom.

I remember the little dressing table with a swiveling stool. I liked to spin around and 'round on that little stool. I also liked to "explore" the drawers in that little dressing table...I think that would have been considered "ornery" behavior.

I remember the way her feet looked in her sturdy, sensible shoes. I remember trying on her shoes and wondering if my feet would ever fill them. I haven't filled her shoes yet...no one could.

I remember when Grandma and Grandpa would come from Indiana to visit us in Wichita. They drove a big van...I think it was Grandpa's work van. Grandma would bring homemade gifts and canned goods. She never came empty handed. She was a Giver.

To those who knew Grandma better and longer than I did, these memories may seem trite or insignificant. But, they are the images my young mind grasped onto and I am proud to own them as some of my favorite memories.

Though a part of me has wished she could have stayed longer- that I could have known her better- that she could have seen her grandchildren grow into adults, and that she could have met her great- grandchildren... the other part of me knows she is in a far better place.

Someday, I will meet her there.

My Super Man...A Wife's Perspective

He doesn't wear blue tights and a red cape...usually.
And -as far as I know- he neither sneaks off to phone booths for stealthy wardrobe changes, nor has he been an ace newspaper reporter (unless the Herron counts). But, he is definitely a Super Man.

I remember when the opportunity arose for Mr M. to begin teaching...he was honestly a bit intimidated at the prospect. But God provided the strength so that he could go forward with confidence.

He works very hard to be the best seventh grade teacher he can be. He also moonlights as a College Professor, one night a week. He loves the students, and he loves his work- but it often leaves him mentally and physically exhausted.

My Super Man, is really very funny, and it is my opinion that his sense of humour keeps him going. He is also a gifted writer and is insanely witty and clever.
Sometimes I laugh at him...and sometimes he laughs at me, but most often we laugh together.

He is also kind and personable. He feels comfortable with people and he accepts people for who they are...even if they are what I would call "abrasive" (and it is a good thing too, because I can be abrasive).

He can listen for *hours (*literary exaggeration for effect) to me rant about this and that, and then, when I have finally finished my rampage, he often has some advice to impart regarding the particular situation. And, most often, (don't tell him I said so) he is right.

Now, I am not blinded by love; I realize that no person is perfect. My Mr. M is no exception. But he is a wonderful and loving husband. He is a godly and good example to me. I appreciate him very much...even when he doesn't pick up his socks.

My Hot Date...

Mr. M and me out on the Town...

We went to one of our favorite places, Panera Bread Co. The breeze was crisp and cool - it was a perfect night to sit out on the patio, relax and enjoy hot soup and warm bread.

Foosball and Billiards

This past Sunday night we were invited to the Bailey's Home. We had a wonderful time visiting, eating tasty treats, and playing games...It was so much fun!

Here, Mr. M and James feverishly battle...

...My brother and Jared. I pinch-hit for my brother half way through and we beat 'em...bad!

Mr. M trying his luck at another game...Now he knows what he wants for Christmas (too bad!).

Alex and Angela Vs. Dixie and Me (the LPN's Won)...you will have to excuse my bragging...I hardly ever win at anything....so I am really excited about this.

Life Is Good…And Other Annoying Bumper Stickers

Have you ever experienced pain? Have you ever been rejected…misused…misunderstood? Have you extended your hand in friendship only to have it shunned or betrayed? Have you ever experienced a senseless tragedy or endured a broken trust? Once it happens it makes it difficult to put yourself "out there" again. Right? It is human nature to recoil from the possibility of pain, whether it is physical, mental, or emotional. Yet among the many people who would recoil, retreat, stop giving, stop risking, stop trying…there are a few people who somehow pick up the pieces of their shattered egos, wills, bodies, and spirits…and keep on living…keep on giving…keep on loving.

To me, it did not make sense. Why…WHY would anyone do that to themselves? Shouldn't we protect ourselves against being hurt if we can help it; shouldn't we learn from the past mistakes and not touch the hot stove?

I know this is going to sound terrible, but a few years ago, due to the fact that my faulty reasoning was based primarily on a lack of knowledge and life experience, I thought that I could somehow avoid pain. I thought that - if I was careful enough, did all the right things, and said all the right things - I could avoid painful loss, depression, and senseless tragedies. In my mind, bad things only happened to people that somehow deserved it…or because they were not careful enough. But I was wrong! After a bit of living, rude awakenings, and more than a few unanswered questions, I realized: this is life - pain is inevitable - loss is par for the course…and, though I have nearly driven myself crazy trying to find answers for the "WHYS" in life, unanswered questions can be a blessing.

C.S. Lewis wrote about Charity ("divine love") in his book The Four Loves. In this chapter, Lewis wrote a stunningly vivid paragraph about the alternative to, and the results of not, giving of ourselves and loving others (even the unlovable), although it might bring pain and grief. He states:

To love at all is to be vulnerable. Love anything, and your heart will certainly be wrung and possibly broken. If you want to make sure of keeping it intact, you must give your heart to no one, not even to an animal. Wrap it carefully round with hobbies and little luxuries; avoid all entanglements; lock it up safe in the casket or coffin of your selfishness. But in that casket—safe, dark, motionless, airless—it will change. It will not be broken; it will become unbreakable, impenetrable, irredeemable. The alternative to tragedy, or at least to the risk of tragedy, is damnation. The only place outside of Heaven where you can be perfectly safe from all the dangers and perturbations of love is Hell.

There are bad things that happen in life that just cannot be explained; and even with the knowledge that God is in control, the hurt is still there and it can seem impossible to keep going.

But in these times, if we would grasp the truth that "His strength is made perfect in our weakness…" and if we would draw near to God… not so as to try to avoid the suffering that is inherently earthly…we would find that He is the only source of peace and comfort our hearts require. If our motivation is to please God, only then can we find the joy in giving and loving sacrificially.

Getting Started...

The switching of Blogs can be treacherous. For one, I am already accustomed to the ways of Yahoo 360...Now I have to learn the "ins and outs" of blogspot. The second reason is that I poured so much energy into my other blog that feel a little deflated at the thought of starting from scratch... I have tried to duplicate the last few blog entries from Yahoo 360- in this new blog...sorry for the repeats, but it makes me feel better to have it all in one spot. Am I crazy?

That's rhetorical...

My Family Photo Album

You Picked Me Photo Story

This Is another entry from my former Blog...

Click on the picture...and enjoy.

The Night Before our Wedding...

Check out these "moves"... It was the night before our wedding and the guys (I promise they were sober) decided to get a little exercise... Our friend C.F. decided to set it all to music and post it on You Tube. Keep in mind that the guys were not "dancing" to music when this was taped... Thanks C.F.! ...ah, the memories!

Chili Dogs, Pumpkins and a Little Jewish Rap

P.S. To hear the music...click on the music video picture and then click on
the little speaker icon in the lower left corner!

A Visit From the North...

We Really Enjoyed Having Mr. M, Sr in town this weekend...Mr M, Jr enjoyed playing basketball and talking to his dad...and I enjoyed visiting with him too!






Mr. M, Sr took us too Too-Jay's...one of our favorites! French onion soup anyone...?






After basketball, the guys had fun visiting with friend, Mr. H (the guy looking animatedly at the wall...too much sugar, or too little sleep?)







On Sunday it was time to say "Goodbye..." but that was much too sad! So, instead, we said, "See you later..."