We are never alone

The Power Of Temptation

2010-11-18T01:00:00.001-06:00

It's Wednesday night, 5:00 p.m., bible study starts at 6:30, as you're leaving work you review your mental check list of things that really need to be done - tonight. On your way home you start debating with yourself if you should really take the time to go to bible study. After all, there is laundry to be done, a checkbook to be balanced and a dozen other things waiting for you when you walk into the house.

You walk into the house and can smell dinner already started. The dogs bark their greetings at you and the cat comes and smells your shoe and runs for the hills. Awww....yes - home. You look at the clock that is now saying you need to leave in 45 minutes. You start hearing that little voice in your head, "why rush with dinner and go back out where it's cold and dark? Stay home in your warm house, enjoy a leisurely dinner with your family and watch Survivor. After all, it's not your fault they moved it to Wednesday nights." You listen to the voice.

Our latest sermon series on temptation has really got my attention. Not that I didn't think of temptation before but God has used this time to convict me and to open my eyes to the temptations that I have been given to. I never really thought about there being something much bigger at stake than the temptation it's self. Yeah the big temptations-the big sins, everyone knows that if we are tempted to kill someone and follow through that yes, there is something much bigger on the other side of that temptation.

It's those times when we have that brownie when no ones looking, swipe that piece of plastic (our spouse will never know-right), or decide to stay home from the bible study or small group you've committed too. There are countless temptations facing us everyday. Some are easier than others to resist - some have such a pull on us that alone we can't pull away from it.

1st Corinthians 10:13 says, "No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it."

I'm not ready for this series to be over. I feel like I still very much in the middle of it and I have so much to learn. But I am thankful that God used this series to get my attention. To remind me that giving into a temptation will affect my faith, my family, and my future and possibly a future that may not even by my own but effects someone else.

There is no way to avoid temptation - with the help of the Holy Spirit we can over come them.

If you feel comfortable, please leave a comment letting me know how I can pray for you. What temptations are you facing? What temptation have you overcome? I'd love hearing from you.

It can be done....

2010-11-17T06:00:00.002-06:00

You can get a sleeping ~~dog~~ woman up at 5:00 am to go to the gym.

I made it to the gym today by 5:30 but not with some obstacles being put in my way:

Plugged my dead ipod into my computer to charge over night.
One of my furfriends unplugged the cord from my computer, battery died over night.
Dead computer = dead ipod in the morning - crud.
Received text from Big K - she's not going this morning, she's the one that wanted this.
Little K's car is behind mine.
Frost on Little K's car that is behind me.
Go back into the house and get keys to move said car with frost on windows trying to avoid trash that is waiting for pick up at end of the drive way.
Park Little K's car at an angel due to frost still on windows that I haven't taken the time to scrape - and avoiding garbage can at the end of the drive.
Procede to adjust Little K's car 3 more time to get it over far enough and straight enough so I can back my car out.
Get in car to leave, look over, left Little K's lights still on. Go back into the house, get her keys, shut off light, put keys back into house.
One my way, almost turn onto the interstate going the wrong direction.
Get to the gym, I seem to have great difficulty making up my mind where I'm going to park....just park already Sheryl.

Yea!!!! I made it.

You know, sometimes you have to wonder if it's even worth it.

Yeah, it's worth it. I'm not real social that early in the morning but I didn't mind listening to the music from the class in the next room and just peddling away for the next 30 minutes.

I yawned on the way home and thought to myself, "I must be the only one that yawns after a work out." Thought exercising gave you more energy? It does, I just didn't wait long enough. I can't describe how much better I have felt today, not only physcially but mentally. I've been very productive and sometimes that's hard when you are the only one in the office.

Thankfully early morning swim practice starts this week and I won't have to fight for the shower when I get home.

True Confession - Here's to a my health!

2010-11-16T07:32:00.001-06:00

For me weight and staying physically fit has been a life long battle - I lose, I gain, I lose, I gain. I got a wild hair last Saturday to go to the gym. I rode the bike for 30 minutes. It has been a few weeks since my shadow darkened their door step so for me - this was big.

Then with out giving it much thought at all, I did something totally crazy. I talked to one of the trainers about what I need to do to get back on track. I even set up an appointment to talk to the naturalist and to set up an exercise program. During this conversation he really didn't tell me anything I didn't already know, but he did confirm what others (my family) have been trying to get me to do.

Big K has been trying to get me to the gym in the morning before work. I'm thinking she nuts! I'm not breathing much before the alarm goes off at 6:00 let alone have my tush at the gym earlier then that. Bless her heart but after some of the conversations we've had about it she finally quit bringing it up. She knows I should do it, I know I should do it, but geeez 5:15 in the morning????

Then during my meeting with the trainer he mentioned that the most successful people at weight loss and fitness start their day working out - dig the knife in a little more, I knew that too. Is this the Holy Spirit confirming through him that I need to to this and if I know I should do this why don't I do something about it?

I made a very scary decision this morning, I'm going to start working out at the gym at 5:30 in the morning. I'm not even breathing at 5:30 in the morning and why have I decided to do this going into the winter months?????

God is convicting me, I feel he is telling me that I need to take better care of myself. To take care of the body he blessed me with. I don't have many health issues right now but if I don't take off some weight and get in better physical condition I'm going to have problems in the future. Besides, I want to be one of those Grandmas that take their grand kids places, play with them on the floor, and be very active.

I want to be able to go into a department store and buy clothes with out going into the plus size section.
I want to have control over food instead of food having control of me.
I want more energy and I want the driven person back that I once was.
I want to put my CPAP machine up on the shelf and let it gather dust.
I want to be ready at a moments notice when God calls me to a task - both physically and mentally.

But I'm scared:

What if I fail.
I'm afraid I will lose my comforting friends - hamburgers, fries, my pillow. That fear comes from the love of food and napping.
How do I stop thinking about food all of the time - and WHY do I think of food all of the time?
I'm scared I'll feel hungry - I Hate feeling hungry.
Will I have the strength to make it a way of life

A tweeter friend tweeted once "What's holding you back?" After I thought about it I decided I'm holding me back. I don't consider myself a negative person, I hope people don't see me that way, maybe they do. However, when it come to me and my self-esteem I am very negative-I have convinced myself that I am fat and ugly.

I know this is all a choice, making the choice and sticking to it are two different things, for me anyway. So once again I begin my journey. I had lost 20 pounds since April and put back on 4 of those pounds, not too bad but it's time to get the scale moving down once again.

Thank You

2010-11-11T08:50:00.000-06:00

In memory of my dad (Koren war), my father-in-law (WWII), and in honor of my future son-in-law (Marines) I want to Thank You and all the men and women who have served and given their lives to keep us safe and to give us our freedom.

Happy Veterans Day.

Being a Christian is just like a pumpkin!

2010-10-31T00:01:00.003-05:00

For some this may be a repeat for others it may be the first time you've heard this story.

Whether it's your first time hearing it or your know it by heart, from time to time we all need a reminder.

Being a Christian is just like a pumpkin!

First, God picks you from the pumpkin patch and brings you in from the field. The Bible says He selects us out of the world. We are in the world, but no longer of the world.

He then washes all the “dirt” off the outside that we received from being around all the other pumpkins. All the outside influences of our former life must be cleaned up. Old things are passed away and all things are become new.

Then, He carefully removes all the “yucky stuff” called “sin” out from the inside. Sin will not have such internal power. He then changes us from the inside out by the Power of His Word. That’s why it is important to go the church and learn about God’s Word.

He carefully removes all those seeds of doubt, hate, greed, and fear. He replaces them with the seeds of faith, hope and love. After Jesus is invited inside, you begin to experience the changing power of God’s love in your life.

Then He carves a new smiling face. Our countenance is changed by the power of His presence in our life. We then become so grateful. It can even show on our face!

As we light the candle the pumpkin now reflects the light from inside out. So too, when Jesus, who is called the Son of Light, lives inside of us, He shines through our life for all to see. We can let His light reflect through us to reveal His presence. “Let your light so shine before men that they may be able to see your good works and glorify your Father, who is in heaven.”

So you see, we Christians are really like this pumpkin! We will never be the same with Jesus inside of us.

Making Memories

2010-10-28T12:56:00.002-05:00

It seems like after this school year life as I know it will change. Big K is getting married on New Years Day and Little K will graduate from high school at the end of May. Even our exchange student L will be going back to Germany in June. I'm going to go from three kids in the house down to 1 during the first week and June and then 0 in August.

God has blessed me with wonderful children who are no longer children at all but beautiful young adults. The hour glass of life is just moving too quickly for me. So with that said - I put the hour glass on it's side to stop time for a day. It's fall break so the Little K and L had no school, Big K was done with classes at noon and B and I took the afternoon off from work. We loaded up the van with jackets, hotdogs and chips and headed to Vala's Pumpkin patch for a family day of fun.

On weekends it is nothing to wait for 45 minutes for traffic to move just to get a parking spot and walk yet another who knows how far. But on a Tuesday we were blessed with a front row parking.

Originally when I reserved a fire pit we had about 10-15 people coming. Since plans changed and we were down to 6 they changed our location - again what another blessing. It was beautiful and full of color.

We went to the Pig Races.

Played in the corn.

Ate Smores.....

And just acted silly....

And of course we had to go out to the pumpkin patch to find that PERFECT pumpkin.

It was a wonderful day. One I will hold dear to my heart for years to come. Thank you Lord Jesus for the beautiful fall day, the wonderful colors, and being able to spend the time with my family.

Family Dog Attacks Infant In Bed

2010-10-15T08:26:00.001-05:00

We know that according to the book of Job we are not immuned to the physical harms of this world. Though we know why God let the story unfold with Job, we don't always know or understand why harm comes our way. Such is the story with the little boy in this news story.

Please watch the video and keep this little boy (11 months old) and his family in your prayers. Please pray that no phyical, emotional, or spirtual scars will be left behind.

This child is B's aunt's great-grandson.

If possible, could you spread the news of this prayer request on your blog, the family would really appreciate it.

Family Dog Attacks Infant In Bed - Omaha News Story - KETV Omaha

Is anyone of you in trouble? He should pray. Is any one happy? Let him sing songs of praise.

James 5:13

If God is for us, who is against us?

2010-10-13T08:36:00.000-05:00

Even if we don't see the good in it, God will work it for our good. It's like when a person blows up one of those long balloons and twist and bends, turns, squeezes and ends up with an animal. Lie your balloon at God's feet, He will fight the battle and can turn it into something good.

The One and Only

2010-09-30T16:04:00.001-05:00

I started a new Beth Moore Bible study called "Jesus, The One and Only." It's a 10 week study on the life of Jesus.

A couple of days before the study began my sister challenge me to our own version of the Biggest Loser, this contest will last 10 weeks.

When I was listening to the introduction to the Bible study I couldn't believe it was 10 weeks, the same 10 weeks as my weight loss challenge with my sis. Is that a coincidence - I'll keep you updated.

Once I accepted the challenge to lead a small group of women through this study on a weekly basis I started to pray. I prayed that God would move me aside and let the Holy Spirit take over the discussion time.

The first week came and went for the study, I was able to get my daily reading and mediation in. We didn't break into groups that first week. The second week - not so good. Life got out of control and I didn't even crack the book. By the time we meet again I was so exausted from the work week I couldn't even go. Fast forward to last Tuesday, I so wanted to be the best leader I could be. I wanted to be ready for this lesson, have an outline and know what way to lead this women during the discussion time. Tuesday night was a disaster.

We already had a stressful week ahead of us. We were having carpet put in L's room and we had to rip out the old carpet and paint before Thursday morning. I set the DVR to record the Biggest Loser and go into my bedroom to study and prepare for my Bible study group that is meeting the next night.

Big K stopped by the house, she rarely stops by during the week. She was hungry for both food and conversation - and she turned the television on LOUD. After talking to her for a few minutes, I turned back to my studies only to have Little K and L come home from Cheeri-o camp. If I thought Big K was loud - she didn't hold a candle to them. B was in L's room painting, not being a big painting fan you can imagine some of the tension in the house.

I kept thinking, "I've got to get ready for this bible study" but it wasn't happening. I texted a friend venting about the nights events and how frustrated I was, finally I gave up and closed my Bible and my study book.

The next morning as I was laying in bed thinking about how unprepared I was and God layed a heavy thought upon my heart. He reminded my that I had been praying for Him to move me aside and let the Holy Spirit lead the discussion and that's what He did. He moved me aside by not letting me prepare as I wanted to so that I had to rely on Him.

Later that day God presented me with a Bible verse:

"A fool vents all his feelings but a wise man holds them back."

Proverbs 29:11

I have to say I felt quit convicted.

The Bible study went great last night and I am no longer going to worry about being prepared - He already is.

My First Temptation....

2010-09-16T22:22:00.002-05:00

No, it not the first temptation that has been set in front of me, I have those all of the time. But this morning had my first temptation that I was able to resist. I don't know when the last time I walked away from food when it called my name.

I did the Flylady thing and prepared my lunch the night before, grilled chicken breast, a little bit of bbq sauce and cauliflower. Now it's the morning of, I reach in to grab my lunch and it's not there. Now if I didn't have a million containers in the frig that ALL look alike maybe I could find something easier but that's another post.

As I am opening each and every container (you can see through these container but yet I couldn't seem to figure out what was in them with out lifting the lead. Some I wished I would have left closed - guess I'll be cleaning out the frig this weekend). Anyway, I opened a container that had left over sausage from Saturday's breakfast. Oh the aroma, it smelt soooo good, even cold. I remembered back to Saturday morning when we had them and how good it tasted.

Please don't tell me I'm the only one that goes back in time thinking about the food I love.

All of a sudden I had the bad Sheryl on one shoulder holding a red pitch fork saying "go on, throw it in the microwave, no ones home, who'll know". On the other shoulder was the good Sheryl dressed in white saying, "don't do it, you don't even know who to count the calories or fat in it."

I picked up a piece, closed my eyes and stuck it in my mouth. The bad Sheryl was jumping for joy as I was savoring that piece of sausage. The good Sheryl grabbed the container, slammed the lid back on and threw the container back in the frig.

I stood up and what do you think I found starring me in the face, my grilled chicken now sitting on the top shelf, easy to reach. I'm just sure it wasn't there when I started this who temptation thing.

With one more pound to go before I hit the 20 pounds lost goal, I'm glad I didn't let the bad Sheryl win.

Thank you dear Father, I know when we are faced with temptation you always provide a way out, we just need to look for it. Thank you for helping me to win this particular battle with food. You gave us great food to enjoy not to abuse as I have done. Amen.

I can finally change it......

2010-09-13T12:40:00.000-05:00

Ok, it took me 22 weeks but I can finally change the tag on the sidebar to read "15 Pounds Lost".

I was really hoping to be at my goal weight for Big K's wedding in May but it was moved up to January 1, 2011. Don't think it's going to happen. What I am trying for is a total lose of 40 pounds by the wedding.

I consider myself a professional dieter, I know all of the do's and don'ts (or at least I thought I did), I just don't practice what I preach.

I found this website call SparkPeople, it's sort of like the weight watchers online program but its FREE. I have been playing around with it and tracking nutrition and physical activity from time to time. Just can't seem to get myself motavated enough. After all, if I'm tracking what I eat I have two choice, neither of which I'm to fond of:

1. I have to write down every thing I eat, or

2. I can't eat it.

Now that makes a person start to think before you make that unplanned trip through McDonalds. I'm admit, I'm weak I LOVE their french fries. I'm not sure I want to think :p

My sis is doing her second round of "Biggest Loser" at work. She came in 2nd place during the last round losing by a pound I think. She is taking this serious and I am very proud of her. Until....

she actually asked me if I wanted to join the challenge between her and me! Now that means I have to get serious - I don't like losing to my little sis.

I have to admit, it really is scary. I think of all of the negative stuff right away and soon have myself convenced that I will never be able to eat the foods I love ever again. Now we all know that's not true - but our minds can play such tricks on us.

I've been working out and slowly taking some weight off but now I need to step it up. I have been getting encouragemnt all over, I sure it's God telling me to get up off my fanny and take my health seriously.

So, I am going to take this seriously. I know I will fall and whine (please bear with me) but I will pick myself up and move on. It won't be easy, not only is there the physical weight to take off but I also have a lot of mental clutter to over come as well. I have to change how I think about food and exercise.

Won't you join me on this journey to a healthier life?

Pictures that make you go "Hummm"

2010-09-07T14:45:00.000-05:00

Fed Ex delievers to the UPS Store????

Maybe it's me but I'm thinking the windows are a little low.

Advice from a retired husband

2010-08-25T00:00:00.001-05:00

It is important for men to remember that, as women grow older, it becomes harder for them to maintain the same quality of housekeeping as when they were younger. When you notice this, try not to yell at them. Some are oversensitive, and there's nothing worse than an oversensitive woman.

My name is Ron. Let me relate how I handled the situation with my wife, Carol Anne. When I retired a few years ago, it became necessary for Carol Anne to get a full-time job, along with her part-time job, both for extra income and for the health benefits that we needed. Shortly after she started working, I noticed she was beginning to show her age.

I usually get home from golfing about the same time she gets home from work. Although she knows how hungry I am, she almost always says she has to rest for half an hour or so before she starts dinner. I don't yell at her. Instead, I tell her to take her time and just wake me when she gets dinner on the table. I generally have lunch in the Men's Grill at the club, so eating out is not an option in the evening. I'm ready for some home-cooked grub when I hit that door.

She used to do the dishes as soon as we finished eating. But now it's not unusual for them to sit on the table for several hours after dinner. I do what I can by diplomatically reminding her several times each evening that they won't clean themselves. I know she really appreciates this, as it does seem to motivate her to get them done before she goes to bed.

Another symptom of aging is complaining, I think. For example, she will say that it is difficult for her to find time to pay the monthly bills during her lunch hour. But, Boys, we take 'em for better or worse, so I just smile and offer encouragement. I tell her to stretch it out over two, or even three days. That way, she won't have to rush so much. I also remind her that missing lunch completely now and then wouldn't hurt her any (if you know what I mean). I like to think tact is one of my strong points..

When doing simple jobs, she seems to think she needs more rest periods. She had to take a break when she was only half-finished mowing the yard. I try not to make a scene. I'm a fair man.. I tell her to fix herself a nice, big, cold glass of freshly squeezed lemonade and just sit for a while. And, as long as she is making one for herself, she may as well make one for me, too. .

I know that I probably look like a saint in the way I support Carol Anne. I'm not saying that showing this much patience & consideration is easy. Many men will find it difficult. Some will find it impossible! Nobody knows better than I how frustrating women get as they get older. However, Guys, even if you just use a little more tact and less criticism of your aging wife because of this article, I will consider that writing it was well worthwhile. After all, we are put on this earth to help each other.

EDITOR'S NOTE: Ron died suddenly on January 31 of a perforated rectum. The police report says he was found with a Calloway extra-long 50-inch Big Bertha Driver II golf club jammed up his rear end, with barely 5 inches of grip showing, and a sledge hammer laying nearby. His wife Carol Anne was arrested and charged with murder. The all-woman jury took only 10 minutes to find her Not Guilty, accepting her defense that Ron, somehow without looking, accidentally sat down on his golf club.

Sorry, I couldn't resist posting this email I received.

IF A DOG WERE YOUR TEACHER .....

2010-08-23T00:00:00.002-05:00

You would learn stuff like this:

When loved ones come home, always run to greet them.

Never pass up the opportunity to go for a joyride.

Allow the experience of fresh air and the wind in your face to be pure ecstasy.

When it's in your best interest - practice obedience.

Let others know when they've invaded your territory.

Take naps and stretch before rising. Run, romp, and play daily.

Thrive on attention and let people touch you.

Avoid biting, when a simple growl will do.

On warm days, stop to lie on your back on the grass.

On hot days, drink lots of water and lay under a shady tree.

When you're happy, dance and round and wiggle your entire body.

No matter how often you're scolded, don't buy into the guilt thing and pout - run right back and make friends.

Delight in the simple joy of a long walk.

Eat with gusto and enthusiasm.

Stop when you have had enough.

Be loyal.

Never pretend to be something you're not.

If what you want lies buried, dig until you find it.

When someone is having a bad day, be silent, sit closed by and nuzzle them gently.

~Author Unknown~

What's In Your Purse

2010-08-22T00:00:00.001-05:00

A Penny: a reminder that "In God we trust" - Proverbs 3:5

Gold Cord: to remember that friendship is golden - Ecclesiastes 4:9-10

Button: to keep your shirt on. Patience is one of the seven virtues. - Colossians 3:12

Rubber Band: to be flexible. - Proverbs 3:6

Toothpick: to pick out the good qualities of everyone, including yourself. Matthew 7:1

Kleenex: to dry someone's tears, or your own so you can see the tears of others. - John 11:35

Kiss: to remember love. - Matthew 22:39

Sick of Gum: to stick to the Golden Rule. - Luke 6:31

What is MRSA?

2010-08-19T22:54:00.004-05:00

Caution - not for the squeamish.

B has been fighting what we thought were infected bug bites for about the last 2 weeks. We didn't think a lot about it at first since I too had my own case of chiggers to contend with. Mine got better, his did not.

He has 5 areas that are infected, one being on the inside of his elbow close to the crease. He had been to an urgent care three times but their treatments didn't seem to help a lot. Finally B decided he was going to go to our own physician; the pain was more then he could take, stuff was oozing and what once looked like an infected bug bit now looked a lot worse.

The doctor took a culture and found out it is MRSA - What is MRSA?

MRSA is a bacteria which is often found on the skin. Viruses will dieif they can’t get inside you. Bacteria may live quietly on your skinuntil it finds a cut, wound or graze to infect. MRSA is a highly drugresistant type of the bacteria staphylococcus aureus. It is thought tobe found on the skin of 1-2% of people. Ordinary staph is on the skinof up to 35% of people. Both MRSA and staph can cause infections onyour skin or in wounds but MRSA is harder to treat as less drugs cancombat it.

Wednesday the doctor was considering putting B in the hospital due to the amount of infection in the 5 different areas (2 on his arm, 1 on his leg, and 2 on his stomach). Today there has been an improvement and a hospital stay is not necessary - praise the Lord.

The doctor warned B that even after this is cleared up he could get it again. It is a possibility he could be a carrier of the bacteria. I'm not thinking so - you would have thought if he was a carrier he would have had problems before.

I am so thankful we now know what we're fighting - ok B's fighting and he is now getting the correct medicine.

Lasts and Firsts

2010-08-19T16:51:00.000-05:00

Little K's last first day of high school & L's first day of high school in America.

Have a great day girls.

Just do it now

2010-08-16T00:00:00.002-05:00

Over all my house is pretty clean, I do have some major hot spots (ok, hot rooms). With the arrival of our exchange student, L, I needed to take care of one of those hot rooms - the room that would be her bedroom. This room had served as an office and catch all; now what do I do with all of this stuff.

We sold the desk, moved the book shelf down to the familyroom and then there I stood, not sure of what to do with the rest. I am what the Flylady calls a born organizer (BO) but over the past year or so I have run-a-muck.

This is what it looks like now:

It feels so good to actually have that room cleaned out and able to leave the door open once again.

I am learning a lot about myself, as much as I want "A place for everything and everything in it's place" I am just not there as often as I would like to be. Maybe I'm just being too hard on myself, maybe I've over committed myself (those of you who know me know that is perfectly out of character...ha ha) maybe I've just turned lazy. What ever the reason I don't like the results.

By now I'm sure you're asking where all of that junk went, some of it went to the basement simply because I was running out of time and ~~I didn't know what to do with it~~ just didn't want' to deal with it; other stuff actually got organized and put where it belonged. I did have to come up with a new office system which included putting my 2-drawer file cabinet and another 3-drawer container to store office supplies in my bedroom closet. I am blessed with a big walk in closest and this arrangement is only temporary. On the Flylady website they talk about and sell The Office In A Bag, I loved the system and have adapted it to the supplies I had on hand. Now I am using a Trapper Keeper to manage my bills and other papers that need to be kept close. Since I have changed things around I am losing my options for places to stash papers and junk. I guess that means I will have to apply the Do It Now theory.

The bedroom closet is full but for the most part in pretty good shape, the basement on the other hand looks like I should audition for the show "Hoarders" and I am not comfortable with that at all. I will work on that project a little at a time.

This up coming year will be a challenge, busy, hectic, and I'm sure very rewarding but I am SO looking forward to it.

It’s a girl…she arrived at 10:28 a.m.

2010-08-14T21:42:00.003-05:00

Four weeks ago I received a phone call asking if we would consider hosting an exchange student. I said "sure send the profile", knowing darn well we wouldn't really do anything with it. We looked at the profile, talked about it as a family and prayed.

Today she arrived:

L is from Muelheim An Der Ruhr, Germany. She flew into New York on Thursday and then caught a 6:00 a.m. flight to Lincoln. We found out later she really hadn't slept all night, since she had to catch a bus at 2:30 a.m. to go to the airport. We're still not sure where she was staying that caused her to leave so early.

L's birthday is on Monday, since we couldn't find a Welcome balloon we settled for birthday balloons.

Once she was settled in we took L to Red Robin for lunch.

While decided what she wanted on her sandwich she asked what a pickle was. We take so much for granted, I had no idea how to describe a pickle. In the end I think she figured it out and decided she didn't want it.

L is a wonderful, sweet young lady and we can't wait to get to know her more. I don't have a hard time understanding her English at all but I feel bad because she doesn't always understand me.

We had to make a trip to the store after dinner so L could get an adapter for her computer so she could plug it in. When we came home she went straight to her room and crashed. The poor thing – it was only 4:00 a.m. in Germany, no wonder she was so tired.

So that's a quick recap of L's first day in Lincoln and as a part of our family. She will be staying with us for the upcoming school year.

I will update more later. This is going to be a great year.

The Results Are In

2010-08-03T08:04:00.001-05:00

It has been 10 weeks since I joined Family Life Fitness and started Boot Camp classes and it has been just as much a challenge mentally as it has been physically. When it comes to exercising my body my mind is just as weak. I did the easiest levels for the longest time; I realized I was there physically not mentally. I was there because I need to get in shape, because that's where I thought I should be. If Big K didn't go – I considered it a vacation – she was gone for a week at a time – twice….yeah for me, right?

No, not yeah for me, I was only hurting myself. As time has gone by I am finding I don't mind sweating so much (I've gotten smarter now and bring a small towel with me). I am finding that I am starting to push myself further and enjoying the burn…..what's up with that? I've discovered a class called N-ferno; it's a step aerobics class – I Love It. I'm not very coordinated at it right now but I Love It.

This gym is a fairly new gym. They are remodeling and still working on getting the equipment. Some of the cardio equipment arrived this last weekend. I am so excited to get on the treadmill, elliptical, and start working out more on the weights. Gee maybe I can make this a life style change.

Family Lift Fitness isn't just about exercise they are full circle and also include nutrition classes (personal one-on-one if needed). I wouldn't consider myself real faithful to the work outs in the last 10 weeks even though it definitely more then I would have been doing by oh say 100%, but I have been even worse on the nutrition side. I know what I need and should eat vs. what I need to leave alone but I just don't seem to do it. I love food. I am currently working more on "Eating to Live instead of Living to Eat" vs. strict nutrition guidelines. I'm noticing that as I am working on this philosophy some of my food choices are getting better without much thought from me.

So with a half heartedness attempt at working out and a quarter heartedness (don't know if that's a true term but it is now) attempt at nutrition, the results are in:

-1.0# in body weight
-3.4% body fat
-1.25" in my arm
-3" in my chest
-3.5" in my waist
-2.5" in my hips
-1.25" in my thighs
-8.3# total body fat
+7.3# muscle
Total inches lost -11.50

I am so excited; I even joined the 30 day challenge for the month of August. So is it working yes….consistency and baby steps.

Slow and steady wins the race.

WOW....what a visual

2010-07-28T07:19:00.001-05:00

After making the decision to quit drinking diet coke and all other sodas, I have become more aware of articles talking about the negative effects of drinking soda, many of which I hope to to share with you. I believe God is just reassuring me that even though this has been hard, I am making the right choice.

The following was in my in-box today:

After reading Leanne's posting on Liquid Clutter, I am prompted toshare something I learned recently. I had pre-op testing last month.While speaking with a nursing assistant, I was almost entrancedlistening to the man. He was so very passionate about nutrition! Heasked if I drank "pop" and I said I did--both regular and dietdepending on my taste on any given day.

No sooner was that statement out of my mouth when he whipped a teaspoon out of his lab coat pocket,slapped it down in front of me, and said, "Would you ever put NINE ofthese, filled with sugar, in your mouth in one sitting?"

"Of course not," I replied.

Source: Testimonial from www.flylady.com

Today is Day 7 - NO SODA.......

Need I say more?

2010-07-19T00:00:00.001-05:00

Update - Am I Crazy?

2010-07-17T07:50:00.001-05:00

I hope you are all having a wonderful weekend. Everyone deserves some time to just play.

My new job is going great, I am in the process of learning new accounting software (I know - I'm a nerd), and learning a new industry. This job is now taking me out of the office once in a while; I am leaning how to conduct a Lead Paint and Pre-Shipment Inspections for items being shipped over seas. I've learned and lot and have a lot to learn. I am really enjoying the challenge.

********

Well, it's official, the date has been set and the church as been reserved - Big K is getting married on January 1, 2011. They were hoping to get married before summer and with him being in the service and family out of state that teaches finding a date was getting hard and they were getting very discouraged. Last weekend we took a family trip to Oceans of Fun (it's a water park) and during one of our conversation with Big K and N we suggestion the Christmas holiday. So here we are - 6 month out, no more time to doddle. I think she's picking out and ordering her dress today.

********

I received a call from a friend on Monday, they are hosting a foreign exchange student this year and told me about a girl hadn't been placed yet and time was running out for her. After reading her profile they thought about our family and asked if we would consider it, I said sure, send me the profile. I thought no harm in reading it and chances are it won't go anywhere. Four days later we have prayed-talked-prayed some more-cleaned out our office/stash it all room and have met with the coordinator. Our new addition to the family should arrive the middle of August. I'll share more information as I get it.

********

Little K gets her senior pictures taken this week. I can't believe she is going to be a senior and will be graduating. Little K is a senior model this year for Captured Memories. Here is one of her model pictures:

********

Now with all of that said - maybe I am a little crazy but it sure won't be boring around here for the next 11 months. The question is - once everyone leaves next year what will B & I do with ourselves?

Have a great weekend.

Check'em out

2010-06-23T07:23:00.000-05:00

I've been MIA for awhile, I would like to apologize for that. I know it's pretty disappointing to take time to visit a blog and the author hasn't updated in quite some time.

The new job is going pretty good. It's an entirely new venue for me so I have had to work on not getting frustrated with myself for not knowing what I'm doing.

This last week has been very busy, I worked till 5:00-5:15 every day, had VBS from 6:00-8:30 getting home around 9:00, prepared for a garage sale to be held on Friday and Saturday, and also try to celebrate our 20th wedding anniversary. As you can tell, I've lived through the week to tell about it.

This week is not as busy but already has given me lots to ponder. While in the shower Monday night I found a lump, it was hard, red, and sore. Logic is telling me that this needs attention but that it's probably nothing to worry about, I'll call the doctor in the morning. My heart however didn't feel the same way, my mother passed away at my age from cancer. Mind you it was lung cancer and she lived a different lifestyle then I do, but the fear still crept in. I don't do my self exams very often, I wasn't doing one Monday night, I think I noticed because it was painful.

I called the doctor's office Tuesday morning and was blessed with an opening first thing. Come to find out it was an abscessed cyst in the need of draining. After a small procedure in the doctors office (I won't go into details) I walked out with a lighter heart.

What have I learned: not to take life for granted, don't jump to conclusions (we'll see how long it takes to master that one), perform my monthly self-breast exams, and live each day to the fullest. Life can change in the matter of seconds and we don't always get a second chance.

When's the last time you did your monthly self-breast exam? Click HERE to read more about self-breast exams.

Check out the girls - monthly.

WAIT....you're leaving with out me ! ! !

2010-06-09T06:42:00.004-05:00

My new adventure (job) puts me on the road from time to time. It's great, it gets me out of the office and let me catch up on some reading (via books on CD).

Monday we went to Sioux City, Iowa (about a 2 1/2 hour drive) for some business. On the way back we stopped at this Diary Queen for some dinner before we began our journey home.

I was very proud of myself, I wasn't hungry so I chose to get a drink and visit. After we were done we headed home, it was becoming a long day.

We got back to the office about 7:15 p.m. I reached into the back of the car to retrieve my purse - AND IT WASN'T THERE ! ! ! Yup, it was sitting back in Iowa - I'm sure it was just screaming at me when we pulled out of the parking lot, "Hey, wait....you're leaving with out me ! ! !" Unfortunately it wasn't screaming loud enough.

Once back to the office I had the task of trying to figure out WHICH Diary Queen we had stopped at. I'm sure after I spoke with each one they thought I was a weird, irresponsible lady from who knows where but I have to admit, while they were on the phone with me they were very nice and tried to help as much as possible. After only four calls I found my Dairy Queen, come to find out I wasn't in Sioux City I was in Sergeant Bluffs - that would be why I couldn't find the phone number, I was looking under the wrong city....oops.

I wish I could have seen B's face when I called him and asked if he would like to take a road trip, especially when it was already 7:30 and it was a five hour round trip. Because he is so wonderful - he agreed. God however was on his side, after doing the calculations there was no way we would make it there before they closed - plan B (what is plan B?)

As it ends up Little K's cheer coach took pity on me and excused her from practice Tuesday morning so she could drive her absent minded mom 2 1/2 hours to retrieve her purse.

So, at 6:45 a.m. we started our journey.

This would be Little K's first long drive, on the interstate, through a large city during morning rush hour with a mother that was just say - may a little nervous.

However, as you can see - she has no fears.

She did a great job. In the beginning she was determined to drive the five hour round trip herself, about 30 minutes from our destination she was was looking forward to switching places. She now has a whole new respect for B when he drives.

We didn't travel alone, we took "Point of Grace" and the cast of "Wicked" with us to keep us entertained and of course we took some nourishment.

Awww, we finally arrive, I am soon to be reunited with my purse.

Hello friend, can you ever forgive me?

My purse was a little disgruntled at first. It knows I am not faithful solely to it, there are many purses in my life, but it didn't count and being left behind.

On our way back (ok out of the parking lot) we saw this building - if you can call it a building.

Later on down the interstate we saw this poor unfortunate site, I hope no one was hurt. Look close to the left of the picture, there is a semi on it's side.

With our beverages and sunflower seeds in hand we jammed down the road. What a relief it was to see this:

Little K, the one that was going to drive the five hour round trip fell asleep shortly after seeing that we were back in Nebraska. She was out until I pulled up to the office - over an hour later :)

Thank you Little K for covering for your mom - I love you.

We were very blessed on this journey - both Monday and Tuesday threatened us with storms during travel that never came. We traveled to and from with no incidents, my purse was found and everything intact.

As Forest Gump once said, "Life is like a box of chocolates, you never know what your going to get."

This was a piece of chocolate I would have rather not found :)

Famly Affair

2010-06-06T21:19:00.000-05:00

I just told the neighbor across the street that I would commit to having a garage sale in two weeks. We have been talking about it and actually starting to go through some boxes but now it's real, I have actually set a date.

Worked in the the bedroom closet tonight, once the extras are gone it will be great to have my closet back - floor and all. Once cleaned out I am determined to keep my closet as a closet and not a catch all.

The next two weeks are going to be very busy now that I've committed to this garage sale, learning a new job, helping at VBS, and continuing to learn the routines at boot camp. But with God's grace and the support of my family I know I can come out on the other end shinning.

My adventure of getting more fit and losing weight has become a family affair. All four of us are now attending boot camp and butts & gutts classes. I'm the only one that really needs to lose weight but even the girls who are already fit have found out there are still muscles in their body that they have not been introduced too. As a family we are also taking baby steps to eater better as well, our latest discovery has been sweet potatoes.

The sweet potato is rich in Vitamin A ) beta-carotene and Vitamin C. Both vitamins A and C are powerful antioxidants that work in the body to remove free radicals, this free radicals are chemicals that damage cell. They are also good for stomach ulcers and inflamed conditions of the colon. Click HERE to read about more benefits of the sweet potato.

For both myself and B sweet potatoes were something our mothers made and we never touched. I have baked them like baked potatoes and have sliced them and baked them with olive oil. B and I have discovered we do like them, Big K as eaten some (I'm sure it was just to humor us) and Little K seems to manage to be gone every time there on the menu - hummm what's up with that?

I neither lost or gained weight this last week and since I haven't been to the gym since Wednesday and not watching real close what I've been eating - I'll take it. Tomorrow is a new day and the beginning of a new week - the sky's the limit.

At the end of the next two weeks I hope to be:

Richer - yeah right (but at least I'll have less clutter in the house)

Fitter

Slimmer

And more comfortable in my job.

I didn't give up

2010-05-31T21:44:00.001-05:00

You never know what you can do when you stick to it, have faith in yourself and not give up.

Here in the United States it is a holiday, Memorial Day, a day that commemorates the U.S. soldiers who died while in the military service. Today -I did something for the first time on a holiday, I got up at 5:30 a.m. to be at my boot camp class at 6:15. Is that crazy or what?

It has been two weeks now since I've joined this gym. I am seeing some progress in my endurance and I try to push myself a little further each day. My sister was visiting for the weekend and went to class with me. I felt so bad for her, not that she found it hard and I am afraid she could be sore in the morning but because on the way home she broke down. She said she felt embarrassed being one of the largest ones there and that she couldn't keep up with most of the class.

I wanted to cry with her, I was feeling that same way just two weeks ago. Though there hasn't been a noticeable transformation on the outside, there has been a transformation on the inside. I still go to the gym each day with my heels dug into the ground while both daughters drag me along.    But each day I go the level of fear drops a little bit more.

I no longer feel like the fat one standing out. Most of the time when they show us the drill for the class I think they are out of the ever loving mind. I mean really, where do they find these people - they really think I can do THAT. But as the music begins I start the warm up with everyone else (which is about the only time I can keep up right now) and then proceed to the work out at a level that challenge my physical ability.

I am learning to humble myself during these classes. I am usually one of the last (if not the last) one to finish the outside running exercises (and getting lapped my Big K no less) but that's OK, I am doing my best and the instructors are great. They never start the next drill until everyone has caught up and I never feel like the rest of the class is holding it against me, everyone is very supportive.

Today I actually finished running a five cone suicide and then we had to go from that right into a run up a hill and back. My shins were not happy about the progress I was making and decided to rebel against me. They tightened up so bad that I could hardly flex my foot. Once I got back into the building I walked over to get a drink and feel against the mirrored wall. I had tears coming down my face and spilled my water all over me (and I didn't care) thank goodness I was in the back.

But here's the thing....I didn't give up. I wasn't able to do everything the rest of the class was doing after that point but I kept myself moving and I am so proud of myself for that. I haven't felt proud of myself for a long time.

Maybe, just maybe, I learn to love myself again.

Hope you had a great weekend.

Sheryl

Progress?

2010-05-23T21:00:00.013-05:00

Could it be that I am actually starting to see a little progress from my short week of boot camp?

As of today I can get out of the car and go up the stairs like a normal person, the pain is finally started to subside.

Tonight Little K and I went to the ball field for a food handler permit class (we work the concession stand for the local team). The class was located upstairs in the suites, I didn't start to feel it in my quads until about the last four steps, usually I can feel it right away and it wasn't until I got home did I realize I was not out of breath when I reached the top - that defiantly was progress.

I have to thank B for asking me to go on a walk tonight, if he wouldn't of said anything I was have just been a couch potato for the rest of the night. After we walked our normal one mile route I realized the small of my back wasn't hurting and I wasn't out of breath as usually.

It's funny, I drag my feet every day when it's time to go work out but I am so glad when it's over. Not because the work out is over (ok, that too) but because I endured and am now one step closer to my goal.

Dear Heavenly Father - I pray for strength during the fitness journey. Father, make this journey yours - I pray you will use this journey to glorify you. Amen.

How is that class treating me you ask?

2010-05-21T18:41:00.001-05:00

Today is a day of restafter three intense boot camp classes. Actually this day of rest is agift from God, the last class is at 5:30 on Friday and since I workuntil 5:30-6:00 I can't make it. Once I build up my strength andendurance I am considering going to a morning class before work. Thatway I will still be able to work out on Fridays.

Tomorrow morning isa work out and then a nutrition class. I know what I should stay awayfrom but don't seem to have the will power to do it. I am hopingemerging myself in the whole fitness program will help to reprogram mymind and get rid of all of the negative self talk.

How I feel physically:

Afterthree days of classes my thighs and shins are sore (the thighs are alot better however). My neck is a little sore today also, I must nothave done the crunches right last night.

How I feel emotionally:

Ican't quiet explain my emotional state, it is bouncing all over. I'min shock because I am sticking it out. My mind set is changing, shhhdon't tell anyone but I think I might be starting to feel like I want to go back to class.

I am used to beingthe nurturer and the encourager - the roles have changed right now. I'm sure it's part of the process but I'm still trying to get my headaround it.

I'm embarrassed at what I can't do physically, that might just be what is taking me back each night.

My family is 100%behind me, all four of us have joined and will be getting fit/healthier together. How cool is that?!

Now I just have to rearrange my routines so the house doesn't fall apart during the new adventure.

Memories

2010-05-20T21:28:00.006-05:00

Yea! The 3rd class of boot camp is nothing but a memory. My quads are considering going back on speaking terms with me, however, I do believe I've made my shins anger. I'm guessing we won't be on speaking terms in the morning - oh well.

Through all of this, I am trying to keep a mental picture of what I will look like and how I will feel in a few months.

Dear Heavenly Father,

Thank you for the sore muscles, muscles that tell me I am out of shape but healthy enough to work out. Thank you for a family that supports me and doesn't let me back out and give up on myself.

I thank you for B's co-worker who urged him to urge me to go to the class. I pray for the others that are also taking the classes. I pray that you will encourage all of them to continue to take care of the body you blessed them with, to further you kingdom. Push them to their full potential without injury.

Make this boot camp adventure your adventure, help me not to complain and to be a true witness.

Amen.

My Scaredy Cat Challenge

2010-05-18T22:01:00.001-05:00

Please visit my "Dairy To A Healthier Life" to read about my Scaredy Cat Challenge.

This is one of my biggest challenges in a long time.

The New Adventure Begins

2010-05-14T20:08:00.001-05:00

(Picture from desktoppictures.com)

As of May 4th I started joined in an adventures that 1000's of Americans are going through, I became unemployed, you can read about the begin of the adventure here. I was pretty hard on myself because I didn't feel like doing anything all day long, and wasted a lot of time on the computer. I was tired and figured it's because my pity party was extending longer then it should. I got a call Wednesday from my endocrinologist, my blood results were back and she was moving my appointment up three months - my meds need to be adjusted. I haven't lost much weight but I haven't gained either so I never thought about my tiredness being from my thyroid. That is why I have been feeling so tired.

About four years ago they attempted to kill off my thyroid with a radioactive iodine pill. The dose was not large enough and it has left me with a partially function thyroid that I supplement with hormone pills. My thyroid must be slowing down on it's own, I knew that was a chance.

Fast forward to today, I had an interview and will start my new job on Monday. This is a newly creative administrative position and the job details are not clearly outlined. As a matter of fact they haven't decided whether to keep the position as a temporary or permanent. She wants to see how it goes; I have a good feeling and I'm not worried about it. The job is located in a historical part of Lincoln and it does not require panty hose - yea!

Just my luck, I got the drive to start eliminating the clutter in my home while I have the extra time off. Now - no time off, but I'm not complaining. God blessed me with a two week vacation and now it's time to get moving again. I will continue to preserver on the de-cluttering, 15 minutes at a time, as the flylady would say.

Dear Heavenly Father,

I am so thankful for what you have done, what you are doing, and what you will do in my life. Thank you for the new adventure. I pray that you take this new adventure and make it yours. Amen.

As Luck Would Have It

2010-05-13T22:49:00.000-05:00

What a wonderfully productive day it has been. Since I don't know how much time off I will have I looked around the house today looking for the project that needed the most attention.

Do you have one of those rooms where you put the things you don't know what to do with or just don't want to deal with them at the time? Or maybe it's a place where you stash when companies coming over. I have to admit, I have one of those rooms. It's a small bedroom that we were using as an office, a computer room, and quiet room. Now, it gets used for none of those reason, it's become a catch all room, a room we shut the door to and pray that the house fairy will come and clean it some night.

They say when you have a problem the first thing you need to do is admit it to yourself and others, so: My name is Sheryl and I have not a junk drawer, not a junk cupboard but a junk room.

So, there you have it, I'm a closet junk room junkie.

My filing system has been one of the most basics for the last 1 1/2 years; pay the bills throw the papers in a box - all together.
***rolls eyes here***

I decided this room would be my project while I am between jobs.

I grab my "filing box" and head to the living room so I can at least watch a movie (or two) as I sort.

I wasn't without company, Jake and Sami enjoyed the fresh air.

And TJ came later to see what he was missing.

Not all of the company was useful, actually some of it was down right distracting:

After an afternoon of Flylady - 15 minute sessions I was able to reduce my file box to this (and these papers already had a file folder - why didn't I just put them there to begin with?):

The question remains: Why do we think we need to keep the things we keep some times?

I have my heart dead set on finishing this room before I go back to work.

As ~~luck~~ God would have it, I was called for an interview on Friday. If everything works out ok, I could start as early as Monday.

Hummm...wonder how much I can get done in that room tomorrow afternoon?

What about you, what are you holding on too?

The Party's Over

2010-05-10T09:12:00.019-05:00

It was a cold, dark, rainy morning today. One of those days you just want to pull the covers over your head and stay in bed. How many times have I gotten ready for work wishing I could stay home? Stay home and read, blog, and get projects done around the house. A day to stay home - alone to my thoughts - to renew my mental state of mind - or to have a movie marathon all my own.

Today, God has blessed me with such a day. I scheduled a grooming appointment for the dogs at 7:00 a.m. Woke up wondering what I was thinking when I scheduled that appointment - geez I could be sleeping in during this wonderful cold rainy day. As I laid in bed hitting the snooze alarm I started to reflect on the sermon from yesterday. Our pastors wife gave the sermon and it was entitled "Get A Grip".

She talked about how God is going to do amazing things through the women of the church but before he can do anything we have got to get a grip. She asked us how we are running, are we running with the baton ready for hand off for all it's worth or are we sitting on our hands. We have to go to God and drop the insecurities. We have got to run, run for all it's worth and pass on the baton to our children. We don't have a choice, their spiritual welfare is at stake.

How many times has God answered my prayers and I didn't recognize it or appreciate it? Today is an answer to one of my prayers. It's the perfect day to stay home to read, blog, or get projects done around the house, to renew my mental state of mind. And it hit me - GET A GRIP. I've got to go to God and drop my insecurities and run.

The pity party is over, I've been trying to stay positive about this whole new adventure thing - I didn't feel like I was having a pity party but I'm beginning to believe I was only fooling myself. Today's the day, the pity party is over.

It may be cold and dark outside but the light of God is shinning inside, I'm off and running. I didn't handle the last few months very well. I have a whole new appreciation for those who work multiple jobs and/or are single parents.

Today is a new day and I intend on making the best of it. It's time to enjoy and be thankful for this blessing of free time God has given me, to restore my daily routines, to jump start my exercising (that I claim I never have time for), to take a break and just let God be in control.

Oh yeah, probably should send out a few resumes too.......

"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."

Jeremiah 29:11

A Letter To My Mom

2010-05-09T08:19:00.001-05:00

Dear Mom, today is Mother's Day, I woke up thinking of you. I can't believe it's been 22 years since I've been able to say "Happy Mother's Day" to you physically, but I tell you every year in my heart.

Thank you so much for your love and sacrifices. It wouldn't be until much later in my life that I would understand those sacrifices, big and little, and appreciate them.

As I look back through the years we had our share of rough waters, what teenage girl and her mom doesn't. Some of those times were a little rougher then then should have been but I have been able to get over those and forgive. That forgiveness allows me to say and mean, "I Love You" and "I miss you dearly".

Good things come from the storms in our lives. Your passing brought me Bill, my husband of almost 20 years. Bill and I graduated together and when he saw the announcement in the paper he dropped a card off at the mortuary. After the funeral I called and thanked him and we got together the following weekend. We hadn't seen each other since graduation (seven years) and had no idea we would spend the rest of our lives together.

I wish you could have been at my wedding, I know you were watching over. I wish you could have been at the birth of my children, your grandchildren, but I know you were watching over. I wish you could be at their high school graduations but I know you're watching over. Big K will soon be getting married herself, I wish you could be there but I know you'll be watching over as you have my entire life.

A mother's love never ends and I truly believe it doesn't stop when she goes on home a head of us.

Now I have two teenage girls of my own and I see a little bit of you in both of them - everyday. There are times when I can't help but shake my head and say to myself, "mom would have done that".

So the cycle continues of a mother's love, past down from one generation to another.

I can not begin to thank God enough for the blessings of Big K and Little K and the joy they bring to my life. Lord, thank you for entrusting their lives to me. What an adventure it has been and I'm sure will continue to be.

Happy Mother's Day !

Wild Goose Chase?

2010-05-05T21:44:00.000-05:00

Today I went for an interview. I thought it was odd that the interview would be in Omaha and I told them I wanted to work in Lincoln. They assured me there were offices in Lincoln, against my better judgment I went.

I got lost and was late for the interview, the gentleman hardly looked at my resume, asked a couple of questions and then lead me to a conference room for the second part of the interview. The first guy lead me to believe to believe this would be work in a call center. Not my first choice, did that not sure I want to go back, but I was open to it.

There were eight other people in this room, hum... group interview? Then someone came in and started a presentation. This was a fast pace sales pitch to sell insurance. Selling is not my thing, I am better behind a desk or some other administrative duties. About 1.25 hours later he started going around the room asking people why they should hire us. When it was my turn it simple said, "I don't believe I will be a good fit for your company and I am going to excuse myself" and I left. (By the way - no offices in Lincoln.)

I think the part that irritated me was that the position was misrepresented. Why didn't they just say they need sales agents instead of wasting my time.

During the 45 minute drive back to Lincoln I kept replying the meeting/interview in my mind and asking God what the purpose was for this trip.

While running an errand after I got back into town I was able to do a little networking and because I didn't leave my resume with the other company I had one to hand out.

So tomorrow I hit the road running. I have several ideas in mind and companies to check. I know God will lead me to the right company in his time. Until then - I'll just keep on keeping on.

Dear Lord, take this adventure and make it yours.

A little bird "Tweeted" in my ear

2010-05-04T08:19:00.007-05:00

Today is the first day of "unemployment". As I have written earlier, my temporary job was coming to an end and my permanent job is closing. So the day has come...end of that adventure.

As I was laying in bed - tweeting, trying to decide whether or not to feel sorry for myself I received the following tweet:

@sherylk1515 Hope that you can get back to something soon. Amazing, every time I get a break I wonder when I ever have time go to work.

My response was:

@slmar I have faith that God will give me a little break and then start me on a new adventure.

After I sent that I thought to myself-yes that is what God is really doing. I haven't had any time off for months and months. I need to enjoy this free time I have been blessed with the time off he's given me.

I meant what I said when I posted it but it wasn't until I read it back to myself that the light came on.

I have wanted to have some time off to be able to get some projects done for a long time but the time never presented it's self - now it has. Today is the first day of my new adventure. I am going to enjoy this time off and try not to worry about the finances. Yes, now the task of looking at the want ads are now part of my morning routine, but I won't let it consume me - I will take time to enjoy the blessing of time off God has given me.

God Is Good, yes he is, He's good all of the time.

The Difference A Decision Can Make

2010-05-02T08:31:00.001-05:00

I want to be happy, I try to be happy but it seems like no matter how much I try to pretend to be I'm not.

Maybe its the uncertainty of job, my temp position ends on Monday, or the fact that my other job (my original job gone part time) will be closing the doors and there are just a handful of people left there seems to be a cloud hanging over every time I go in. Maybe it's the fact that I am always tired and I don't exercise because I'm tired; truth is I'm tired because I don't exercise.

What I do know is that it certainly is not because of my family. I love my husband and daughters to death and they love me. Its not the material things in life, I'm content with the things God has blessed me with. I don't feel deprived in the least bit. So what is it?

I'm just tired and can't find it in me to get excited about much. Bill pretty much has taken over the household duties because I can't seem to get my act together. He shouldn't have to do that after working a 12 hour day that starts at 4:45 a.m.

Snacking is getting better

I started this blog last week but for whatever reason I never went back to it. Then I made a decision on Thursday. A decision that would make a huge difference - Friday would be my last day at my original job gone part time.

As I suspected being the bookkeeper they were not jumping for joy when I told them Friday would be my last day, but he did say he understood and thanked me for hanging in with them as long as I did.

Friday came, I finished any open projects and tasks, left notes for what needed to be done and when, locked up and left. I looked at the building as I passed by took a deep breath and was at peace.

I can't explain it, I don't feel as tired and I actually have the desire to take care of my house. I don't feel as depressed as I did. Could the few hours I was working at night really be pulling me down that much? As I reflect, I think so; I'm beginning to believe that it wasn't the hours but the atmosphere I was working in. Because of the fate of the company it was depressing to go in.

I caved the first time I tried to quit by telling them I would come in after my day job and I can't say I won't cave again (he wouldn't take my keys when I offered them back - he asked "don't you want to keep them for another week or so?") but this time I feel empowered I know I can tell him NO I'm not coming back if I really don't want to come back and help. Now that I am feeling better and believe the job to be part of it, I don't want to go back to feeling that way.

The last day of my temporary job is tomorrow and I have no job lined up yet. I do have a good lead on a job but I need to be patient and wait it out. In the mean time I will continue to trust that God has everything in control and keep on keeping on until He turns me into another direction - on a new journey.

There is a part of me that can't believe that I have a peace about all of this and that we'll be fine. I start to pull it back and then the anxiety sets in - then I give back to He, I have no idea how many times I've gone through this cycle.

Hears to decisions that make a bigger impact on our lives then we would ever think they would.

For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans toprosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.Jeremiah 29:11

The Next Adventure

2010-04-28T21:56:00.005-05:00

I can't help but wonder what God has in store for my next adventure. Monday is the last day of my temporary assignment. Though I have some leads on new jobs I'm still in the dark just the same.

With God we are on a need to know basis. I trust with my whole heart that God has wonderful things planned for me. And he'll show me the next adventure in his time. I just wish he'd give me a sneak peek - or maybe he has and I wasn't paying attention.

So for now, I thank God for the opportunity to practice patients (which by the way is getting harder).

On to another note:

Little K received an academic letter this last semester and was inducted into The National Honors Society tonight. She has been working towards this goal for five semesters. We are so proud of her. It will be interesting to see the adventures God has planned for her senior year.

For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans toprosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.Jeremiah 29:11

I love spring

2010-04-28T10:51:00.001-05:00

I just love the tulips.

Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry

The Spot Light

2010-04-25T22:59:00.017-05:00

The enemy will try to get at us no matter where we are, especially in church; after all he doesn't want us worshiping God and I have let him get to me for some stupid reason for the last 2 weeks.

B went in and found a place for us to sit today while I took care of some other business. When I came in I found him in the general area where we normally sit. (You know how we always have to sit in the same spot. Heaven forbid if we sit in another part of the church a meet new people. We are creatures of habit.) I sat down and looked up at the screen to realize I was right under a spot light; Ugg it's shinning right into my eyes, "Just great", I thought, "How annoying is that going to be?" To be quite honest I was very annoyed, why did he have to pick THIS spot? I didn't say anything, just sat there NOT looking at the screen – then the praise band began.

I stood up to praise and worship with the band; as I was singing I looked up towards the heavens – yes, the light was still there – yes it was still right in my eyes, but all of a sudden I had a sense of peace wash over me. The light no longer annoyed me but comforted me. It was as if the Holy Spirit was shinning down on me and reminding me that we are a congregation of ones; though there is a group of 200+ people in the congregation he loves each and every one of us.

I couldn't help but wonder if that's what it will be like when we are praising Jesus in heaven.

The LORD said, "I will go with you and give you peace." Exodus 33:14

Praying

2010-04-22T07:13:00.001-05:00

I write this post with a burdened heart. God IS in control, but that is not stopping the heavy feeling I feel in my heart right now.

I wouldn't call this a storm just a series of strong winds but I am praying for encouragement just the same.

In God's time the winds will dye down; for now Lord, I will just pray and lift up your name giving you all of the glory.

Yesteryear

2010-04-18T22:46:00.004-05:00

When you drive by an abandoned house what do you think, or do you even give it a second thought?

There are three of these houses along the highway between the city I now live in and the town I grew up in. I have passed them several times and my mind always goes back to the same questions.

To me these houses look sad, where are their families?

I try to imagine what the families would be like. What kind of blessings did God bestow on them. What were the joys and sorrows that were shared within the walls.

After all these houses were someones home at one time. What were their dreams what were their failures? What was the color of the house and how did they decorate the inside.

My guess is that they were farmers. The second house still has a partial barn on the land in the back. I did notice that there is hay in the barn so it may not be original with the house.

Both houses are close to the highway and rest right next to fields.

If walls could talk, what would they say? If you would like to make up a memory for one of these houses I would love to post it. Just email me at sherylk15@gmail.com

Have a great day.

Where do you keep your cat?

2010-04-17T17:37:00.000-05:00

This is were we keep ours.

Hope you're having a great weekend.

Friday's with Jake - Oh how I LOVE Spring !

2010-04-16T00:01:00.003-05:00

It's my favorite time of year SPRING ! ! ! And mom gets the grill out....I'm her Grilling Buddy.

I always go out and keep her company while she grills. The smells just drive me nuts.

Mom and I play while the food is cooking.

I love it when she throws the ball. It's my favorite thing to play with...until I find the old mike carton.

Maddie hangs out and watches us play. She doesn't like to play ball. It might be because the ball is WAY to big for her to pick it up.

TJ comes and joins us for a while. He'll sit on mom's lap for a while but then he wants to go in. This is his "Mom, I want to go in" look.

There's a Great Dane that lives on the other side of this fence. Mom and dad always yell at me for barking and jumping at the fence.

I love all of the new smells.

Oh, that's where I left that.

And my milk jug again. Hope mom throws out a new one soon, this one is getting pretty small.

What's that, I think I hear mom going inside - Time For Dinner.

See ya next week. I am so happy, I think the old mom is back.

Job Journey Update

2010-04-07T22:09:00.001-05:00

We went to the zoo last Saturday. Being so early in the season a lot of the animals weren't on display yet - but the weather was beautiful.

Now that I think about it, I think I told you about the zoo in my last post but I just had to show you this picture - there are days when I know exactly how this elephant feels. He just stood there leaning against the fence with his eyes closed. Glad I don't have to sleep standing up.

Here's an update on the job journey. It appears that the permanent position I left (and am now working part time at night) for a three month temporary position is going to close their doors soon. B and I were wondering if the company wouldn't close before my temporary assignment was over. This confirms that I did make a the right decision of leaving my permanent job for a temporary - I'll be working longer this way.

Tonight at bible study (which was awesome by the way) some one asked what I did for work. I hadn't talked about my job journey with this group yet. I told them that in a few weeks I wasn't sure what I was going to be doing and proceeded to explain.

One of the ladies in my group told me they have two position open in her company. She gave me her email address and told me to email my resume to her and she would turn it in as a referral - Praise the Lord.

I don't know if this will be my next step of the job journey or not, but it give me hope.

New Beginnings

2010-04-04T22:30:00.002-05:00

What a wonderful Easter weekend, I was a little jealous (ok, a lot jealous) when B didn't have to work or Little K didn't have school on Friday and I still had to go to work, but I got over it.

Saturday B, myself, Big and Little K with a friend each went to the Henry Doorly Zoo; I love that zoo. It has been about five years since I was last there and had forgotten how much it's expanded. They have wonderful displays and there is no way you can enjoy the entire zoo in one day. Especially if you're like me, I like to just watch the animals for a while.

I was a little disappointed that some of the animals weren't on display yet but the weather was perfect. We took lots of pictures, had lots of laughs and really enjoyed each other. We were walking up the back stretch (this is not a flat zoo) and God got my attention big time; I could no longer feel my legs, my hips were screaming, the bottom of my feet hurt, and I wasn't even sure I could take a breath. I straggled behind every one not wanting the kids to know how I was feeling. I kept thinking that surely I will reach the top of this hill soon. B was there beside me the entire time encouraging me to take a break but I didn't want to give in and this would have also gotten the attention of the kids. Tears were rolling down the side of my face, I didn't know what was going on with me and just when I thought I was going crumble we were at the top. Fortunately we were getting ready to leave and B offered to get the van and bring it to the entrance since we had to park out in the north 40 but I couldn't let him do that. Deep down inside I knew what was wrong with me and I couldn't have been more embarrassed.

How did I let myself get that far out of shape? For pete sakes I couldn't even walk up the stupid hill, I don't want to know what physical age my body is at right now. I know I need to lose about 80 pounds and I need to move my body more but really – is it that bad? God gave me a huge wakeup call – now what am I going to do with it?

It's not a coincidence that God choose this weekend to get my attention, the weekend of Easter – a starting of new. My life matters to the one who holds the whole universe in his hands. I am just a speck of dust in the big picture but yet God took the time to get my attention about my physical health because he loves me so much.

During the Easter service Pastor Michael talked about the earthquake of the resurrection and that Easter has negated all excuses – no more whining. There is not one shred of darkness that can stand to the earthquake of the resurrection, for me at this point in my life my darkness is my physical condition. Nothing is more powerful then the love of God and he is teaching me that my weight does not define me, however, if I am not taking care of myself how can He use me to further His kingdom. Michael said, "Let there be no more whining, no more excuses not to strive for the kingdom and life to the full – if God is for us who could be against us." This really hit home, it's time for me to get moving.

In Philippians 4:13 it says "I can do everything through him who gives me strength." I need to not only know that verse but I need to live it and believe it with my whole heart.

Earlier in this post I asked, what am I going to do with this wakeup call given by God? I'm going to get up and get moving, the weather is getting nicer and I am going to start with walking every day. I really don't like walking around my neighbor because, well, because it's not flat and I have to work harder - there I said it. Now that I look back at the route I take when I do walk, it's the route I need to start getting me in better shape, I'm seeing it a through different eyes now.

With God's strength I will overcome this darkness and bring it forward to the light. I will not let it hold me back any longer.

What's holding you back?

Sheryl

Life is meant to be lived

2010-03-26T21:06:00.001-05:00

I'm sorry if this post is hard to follow, I had a hard time expressing my feelings tonight - please bear with me.

I can't believe I have been on this journey for 9 weeks now. I wish I could say that I have handle this with grace and finesse but I can't. As I have mentioned before job #1 was slowing down and I truly didn't have enough work to keep me busy. I would get my work done and then blog, play games and write on facebook. I'm not proud of it but it was the only way to fill the time between answering the phone.

Now job #2 keeps me very busy and I don't have the opportunity to get on facebook or to write/read blogs during working hours - or even after I get home for that matter. I have been leaving the house at 6:45 a.m. and getting home about 8:00 p.m., eat dinner and lay across the bed watching a movie until I feel asleep. I kept up this routine for 2-3 weeks, I can't believe I am admitting this behavior - yes I was having a major pitty party. Poor me...I have to work 2 jobs (no I choose to work 2 jobs - I'm just a wimp.)

Fast forward - I am not as lazy when I get home now. I started to stress myself out because I wasn't getting things done around the house and projects and tasks were building up. Now instead of being lazy I came home and worked on things that needed to get done. I felt like I was constantly doing things but yet nothing seemed to be getting done, not by me anyway. But that was better then coming home and lounging every night away right? Maybe not?

Yesterday I talked to the store manager about the possibility of a permanent position at job #2; after that conversation I don't believe that will be a possibility. I got a pit in my stomach and thought, why am I learning all of this - it's pointless - oh good another pity party on the rise.

This morning God impressed upon my heart to remember that HE is in control. I believe that this whole job thing has been orchestrated by God himself but I don't believe my actions have been reflecting that belief. No one had said I had to start work at 7:00 at job #1 and no one said I had to stay as late as I was. No one said I had to come home and spend the night on the computer either - can I play the part of the martyr or what?

This morning God instilled a new resolve, He made me realize that in the last 9 weeks and haven't taken anytime do some of things I enjoy doing - like blogging. Life is meant to be lived and that is not what I have been doing. How can one live life and feel sorry for them self at the same time? As I mentioned in an earlier post, the whole job journey really is a blessing from God but I seemed to have lost my focus on that.

On the way to work this morning I found myself humming a song with a line in it that says ...."that's what faith can do".... coincidence? I don't think so, God was reminding me to have FAITH, He is in control.

So here I am, my goal is to only schedule a couple to tasks that need to be done each night and if I get home after 8:00 just call it a night. After all - the projects will still be there waiting for me.

I miss all of my blogging friends and can't wait to catch up with all of you.

Sheryl

Life

2010-03-08T12:33:00.001-06:00

Life is not about waiting for the storm to pass, it is about learning to dance in the rain.
Sheryl

What a journey!

2010-02-27T09:15:00.001-06:00

What a whirl wind this last month has been. I can't believe that's it's been a month since my last post. God has me on a great journey learning to trust, obey, and to submit to Him. Now, I said it is a great journey, but not an easy one.

Today is the finals for the State Swimming competition, Little K did great during the prelims. She placed 14th in the 50 Free Style and 13th in the 100 Free Style putting her 2nd alternate and 1st alternate respectfully in her events. What does that mean you ask, if someone can't swim today in the 100 Free Relay she will be able to swim the consolation heat and if 2 girls can't swim she'll be able to swim in the 50 Free consolation heat. The odds are slim that she'll be able to swim but not impossible; so we're heading back to the Bob Devany sports center for day two.

Little K has grown so much during the six weeks of the swim season. She has been learning how to control her emotions when she doesn't place and get the time she wants and that winning isn't the only form of measurement. Yesterday when she found out she was .03 seconds away from swimming in the consolation heat today she was very disappointed you could see it on her face but she controlled her emotions and we were very proud of her. She knows that she has a very slim chance of swimming today but she is excited to have the opportunity to go back on the second day.

As for me, I think I put my body and mind into shock this last six weeks. As I explained in an earlier post, I felt God was leading me into another vocation direction. When the opportunity came up to take a temporary position for three months and leave my permanent position it made no since to me but I felt that was what God was wanting me to do so taking a deep breath - I did it.

We are in the process of reading Dave Ramsey's book on how to get out of debt; I've been wanting to get a second job to move this process along but wasn't having much success. As it turns out God did bless me with a second job, my old job. My employer couldn't afford to hire a new person full time to fill my position, so now I am still working for my old employer at night after I get off from the new job. I would have never thought that the current job I was in would become my second job - God is Good.

It hasn't been easy though, it makes for some very long days. I by the time I get home I am brain dead. During this transition I've pretty much have been coming home and acting like a slug. I am blessed with a wonderful husband that has picked up the slack, as he always does.

During these last few weeks I've learned more then just a new industry, I have learned a lot about myself.

A positive attitude goes a long way. I would come home and feel tired and sorry for myself because I worked 11-12 hours that day. We'll boo hoo, so does B and yet he is picking up my slack. B - I'm sorry.
If I keep a daily routine around the house, I can come home do my routine and then have some down time with out feeling guilty or anxious. It also takes some stress of B so he too has time to sit and relax. I can't believe how self-centered I have been - to all that have been affect by my self-centeredness, "I'm Sorry."
I need to take time to take care of myself. I know that if I would eat better and exercise more I would feel better, be less anxious, and be more productive. I have been coming home around 7:30 - 8:00 at night, eating some dinner and then going into my bedroom and falling asleep while watching a movie. This left B with house work that needed to be done, take care of the dogs for the night as well as get himself ready for bed.

God has been ever so faithful and I've seen many blessing since we have decided to work on becoming debt free and better stewards with our money. I have asked God to open my eyes to the things I do that displease Him so that I may change - yeah careful what you pray for, I have found plenty of things to work on.

I hope to keep you updated on God's faithfulness in my life. How has God blessed you? Please leave a comment or you can email me at sherylk15@gmail.com

Sheryl

What do you get when -

2010-01-25T19:59:00.000-06:00

You make:

6 pounds of spaghetti

3.5 gallons of spaghetti sauce

12 pounds of hamburger

3 pounds of penne rigate noodles

2.5 gallons of Alfredo sauce

10 lbs of chicken

5 loaves of garlic bread

4 cheese cakes

1 can of cherries

1 can of strawberries

1 big plate of brownies

Mix in 48 bottles of Gatorade and 30 swimmers and you get an LNS swim team PASTA FEED.

We have a great bunch of kids on the team– and hungry ones too – it is absolutely amazing how much food these kids can eat.

We also have great bunch of parents to go along with our great swimmers. There is a pasta feed scheduled before each meet and the parents take turns providing the home, pasta, drinks, bread, and desserts. Tonight was our turn to host the feed.

Because of my new job (I couldn't ask for time off so soon) my WONDERFUL husband took ½ a day off from work to picked up the house and make all of the food. When I got home the chicken alfredo was simmering along with the spaghetti sauce, and the spaghetti was boiling away in the pan.

(Sorry for the shape of the picture, the right side is actually the wall going downstairs.)

The house was filled with kids, laughter and teenage conversation – what a fun night.

Trusting Him

2010-01-23T08:18:00.005-06:00

7"But blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in him. 8He will be like a tree planted by the water that sends out its roots by the stream. It does not fear when heat comes; its leaves are always green. It has no worries in a year of drought and never fails to bear fruit." Jeremiah 17:7-8

As I was spending time in the scripture this morning (Psalm 1:1-3) I came across the above verse, it was a reference to the verse I was reading. Many times I refer to the bottom of the page for more insight on what I've just read. Sometimes these words confirm what I thought I read, sometimes they makes me realize I was way off base and makes me think more about what I read, and sometimes I still just don't have a clue. The one thing I very seldom do is look up the scripture that is referenced in the explanation. Scripture that just may help clarify the verse even more to me. Today I felt lead to follow that scripture – Jeremiah 17:7-8.

God spoke volumes to me through this scripture-to trust Him. He has been sending me signals for a long time now to look for another job. I've seen these signs and recognized them, but I still fought the change. I kept hoping things would turn around for the better. I like what I'm doing there; I kept hoping I wouldn't have to go out of my comfort zone and l look for another job. I was like Jonah and kept running from what God wanted me to do. As I reflect back, I didn't think that was what I was doing but now it is very clear to me, I was running from the will of God.

I believe He has great things planned for me as is stated in Jeremiah 29:11

For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you,plans to give you hope and a future. Jeremiah 29:11

But in order for these great things to happen I need to be still, listen for Him, and trust in what He wants me to do and then like Nike puts it "JUST DO IT." Yes, easier said than done. With practice I also believe that will get easier too.

I took that leap of faith with confidence that I am following His will. Though it is a temporary position, I feel this is what God wants me to do. Things have fallen into place too easy. Because the offer came up so fast I really couldn't give the standard 2 weeks' notice that I feel is only right to give your employer when your leaving, so instead I am working part time between the two jobs for 2 weeks and will continue to help out my current employer at nights as a 2^nd job – how great is that.

I appear to be catching on to the routine and tasks of the new job quickly. God has given me the confidence I need to just dive in and learn the work in an industry I have very little knowledge of. Everyone has been very supportive this first week and has told me several time that I will fit in just fine; Thank you God for that boost of confidence.

Only God knows what will happen after my temporary position is over but I do trust that He has great things planned for me.

Sheryl

Thank You

2010-01-20T11:32:00.000-06:00

Just a quick note of thanks for all of your prayers and your encouraging comments regarding my new journey. The first couple of days at the new job have gone pretty well. My trainer will be gone today so we'll see how much I remember.

I am also getting done what needs to be done at my current job. Of course I am still work 4 hours every day. I'm not sure yet if I will be able to make it work once I am not in the office during business hours. But of course God already has that planned too.

Tonight I am starting a Beth Moore Bible study, I am so excited and thirsty. I'll post more about the Bible study later, for now I need to finish up here and off to the new job I go.

Again, thank you so much for your support.

To Understand why - submit & apply

2010-01-18T00:01:00.001-06:00

I heard those words in church today. Those words fit so perfect in my world right now and give me the encouragement I need to move forward.

As I've mentioned before I don't know how stable my job is, we have had lay offs, cut back of hours, and several other red flags. I have been looking for another job for the last couple of months through a placement agency. Thursday I received a strange call from the placement agency about a position that was brought to my attention last week. I turned it down last week because it is only a temporary. Once this position was brought to my attention a second time I felt like I needed to pay attention.

I received the call Thursday morning and interviewed (in jeans no less) over my lunch hours.

Still not understanding the course of events I went in to my boss's office to give my notice. I know this will put my employer in a bind for a while until my position has been filled again, however, I feel that I am doing what is best for my family.

Things still don't make a lot of sense to me, I am going from a permanent job to a temporary. But for all I know the temporary will be more stable then my current - only God knows.

I feel like God has his hands on my shoulders turning my in the direction He wants me to take. I am in the dark not able to see where I am going but God does know where I am going. I put my trust in Him.

As it turns out, I will continue to work a few hours each day for my current employer to get them through this time. So now I actually have a second job which is really cool. B and I are currently working on the "snowball" effect to become debt free and the extra income will be great. God is so good.

I don't understand why God is putting me in a temporary job position and what will I do when that job comes to an end?
To fully understand why God is doing what He is in my life I need to submit to Him even when I don't understand. Tomorrow is the first day of this new journey He is taking me on. Actually maybe the first day of this journey really started last Thursday when I agreed to the interview. I can't help but wonder what He has planned for me and my family.

For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Jeremiah 29:11

Sheryl

Going Bananas?

2010-01-16T23:10:00.005-06:00

It may have been cold outside today but it was steamy hot inside.

Today was the Cotter Invite, it involves 10 high schools from around the area. This is such a fun meet, whoever wins the heat receives a banana.

The kids are very proud of their bananas; they pose with them, tuck them away in a safe spot, or some teams tape them to the wall.

I love the idea because it rewards those swimmers for their accomplishments even though they may not be at the top of their event. What an uplifting self-esteem boosting idea.

Little K's strongest event is the 50 Yard Free style. Going into today's meet she was seeded 3rd and finished in 2nd place with a time of 25.78 seconds qualifying her for state competition.

When the results were posted we were very surprised to hear that the girl who finished first was disqualified putting Little K in 1st place. What a blessing that was.

Here's a picture of her waiting to received her medal.

We are so thankful for the blessings God bestowed on Little K today. She received 1st place in her event winning a gold medal, a state qualifying time, and yes - she did get her banana.

Several team members received bananas through out the day - what a fun day it was.

Sheryl

A mother's Prayer & Letting Go

2010-01-12T10:32:00.002-06:00

No one told me how hard it would be to let your child spread her wings.

She was in the kitchen making dinner when the phone rang. Her daughter's flight was going to be delayed by a few minutes. After checking the itinerary for the layover time she took a deep breath, "she has enough time, it's shouldn't cut her too short."

A few minutes turned into 2 hours with a change of planes due to a mechanical problem - Houston we have a problem. This was her daughters first time to fly on her own. What will she do, how will she handle this if she misses her connecting flight?

The phone rings and she picks it up eagerly, "hello". "Mom, I'm probably going to miss my connecting flight, what do I do?" "They said if we miss the flight they'll put us up in a hotel and get us out in the morning."

Just what she didn't want to hear, the heart strings pulling. Calmly, so as not to stress out her daughter any more then she already is, she says, "as soon as you land go directly to the counter, explain your situation and see if there is another connecting flight or a flight to Omaha." "Ok", still calm in her daughters voice, "I've got to go, they're boarding the flight."

She turns to her husband and puts her arms around his neck. He is her rock, the one who keeps her sane in a insane world. "It's in God's hands, he'll take care of her." As she reflected on that statement she knew in her heart that she believed it. In the past she has given situations over to God only to take them back again but this time she knew she had turned it over.

The dinner routine continues followed by clean up - the phone rings. "Mom, I missed the last flight to Lincoln by 2 minutes, I'm on priority standby for the last flight to Omaha." Her daughter continues, "there are are two of us trying to get back to Lincoln, the man at the counter says if no one else checks in we can both get on." She takes a deep breath and prays 'God, please let it be your will that she is able to get on that flight. I really don't want her spending the night in Denver.' Again, keeping her voice soft and calm "let me know as soon as you know anything."

Time goes by and she hasn't heard from her daughter, she texts her, "any news yet?"
The phone rings, her daughter is some what out of breath, "I made it mom and got the last seat to Omaha. I feel bad because the other girls didn't get on." "Are you actually on the plane yet?" she wanted to make sure this was real, that they couldn't take it back. "Yes mom I'm on the plane."

She hung up the phone and instantly thanked God for her answered prayers. They will now need to make an hour trip to Omaha to pick her up, but at least she will not be staying in Denver by herself. She is already aware that it will make for a very late night, but will rest easy knowing her daughter is just down stairs.

Dear Heavenly Father,
How do I begin to thank you enough for bringing my daughter home to me safe and sound. I thank you for the many learning experiences; learning to let go and let you do your thing, the learning experience Big K had during her travels and how to take care of business and the reminder once again that you are ALWAYS in control.
Amen

Friday's with Jake - Yes I'm back on the computer again....

2010-01-08T10:56:00.004-06:00

I hope you all had a wonderful blessed Christmas and the best New Year possible.

The temperature is supposed to drop to -22 tonight, it's not fit for man or beast outside. Let me tell you, when I go out to take care of business I go straight to work, no doddling for me....brrrrrrr......

My twin and I are getting along great. When we're not napping together we love to horse around. I make sure to be very gentle. I don't even bite him when he clings to my nose with those ~~stupid~~ claws.

Mom got all wrapped up in a book, when she does that nothing else seems to happen. She missed her Thankful Thursday so she wanted me to mention some of the things she thankful for.

1. She is thankful for a reliable car that starts in sub zero weather. However, she only let me ride in it once. She said something about the how the material of the seats act the a dog brush and leave hair everywhere.

2. She is also very thankful for an attached garage that she can store her car in and keep it warmer. I heard her telling dad that they didn't have a garage growing up and she appreciates not having to scrape windows now.

3. She is very thankful to be blessed with such a loving and understanding husband and life mate. There is no one else in this world she would rather go through life's ups and downs with.

As you already know Big K is in CA and she comes on Sunday night. I can't wait to hear all about it.

See ya next week.

Jake

You DID NOT just do that!

2010-01-06T09:06:00.000-06:00

Rich treasures of God's truth are waiting to be discovered. - The Daily Bread

Yesterday it was discovered that a co-worker has been dumping their coffee from their cup back into the coffee pot because it was cold. I can't begin to tell you how much that grossed me out. The kicker to the whole story - this person see nothing wrong with this practice and they plan to continue.

I'm switching to hot tea.

I told B about it when I got home and we spent the night laughing (B) and being grossed out all over again (me). Later I got to thinking, how many times have I grossed out God? I how many times have I done/said something not thinking about how it will effect those around me? How many times have I sinned and didn't think I did anything wrong even after it was pointed out to me and I continued do it?

Dear Heavenly Father,

Forgive me Lord for grossing you out. Show me what I am putting in the way of aligning with your will. Show me the things that I do that are displeasing to you and please give me the strength to accept and change what needs to be changed. Amen

"He who conceals his sins does not prosper, but whoever confesses and renounces them finds mercy." Proverbs 28:13

Getting Down and Getting Real

2010-01-05T11:56:00.000-06:00

I'm sad, as much as I have tried to but on a front, I'm sad. It was one thing for Big K to graduate this year and then start college in the fall. That was hard enough on the heart strings. Now at Christmas time she gets engaged. Even though the wedding is a couple of years out, how much can a momma's heart take.

As parents we bring our children int the world, feed and clothe them, give them the best education we can, and most of all bring them up in the faith, letting them know that no mater what happens God is in control and will always love us.

Now Big K goes and demonstrates her new found wings by flying (no pun intended) out to CA to visit Nick. It's not like he wasn't just here, gee - young love.

As I write this my eyes are filled with tears and my heart is filled with mixed emotions: loss (empty), wonder, joy. As parents we have done our job, my baby bird has left the nest. I wonder if momma birds ever get sentimental as her little peep flies out of the nest?

She will be fine, we dedicated her to God a long time ago and I know he has great plans for her.

If your peeps have left the nest, how did you feel? How did you cope with it? I'm up for any suggestions.

It's Monday again....

2010-01-04T10:15:00.000-06:00

Hello and thanks for stopping by. I was so hoping to keep my daily postings streak going, but here it is Monday and I don't have one ready. So I thought I would recap the holiday weekend, hope you don't get too bored. :)

We had a wonderful New Years Eve with friends. Went out to dinner and then back to their place for cards. Did you know you can play Monopoly with cards? I didn't till then, it's really fun.

Nick was in a wedding Saturday night so we got to see him dressed in his uniform. I think he and Big K made a great looking couple (see picture above). Nick went back to CA yesterday and now Big K is on her way to CA this afternoon. She has great timing, while she's in CA we're setting in below zero temps and expecting another 4-7 inches of snow this week.

Little K headed out this morning at 5:00 a.m. for swim practice and B is enjoying his last day of shut down. By tomorrow we'll almost be back to routine - yes I like routine.

Update on the new kitten: Sami has been sniped and clipped (neutered and declawed). He has also found out the gravity will prevail if you crawl too far into the toilet and you really need to look into the bathtub before you leap. He has also learned that Jake's tail makes a great toy and that jumping on the table gets you a swat on the butt. Dogs and cat have decided they can coexist in the same house. As a matter of fact, I have caught Jake and Sami napping together :)

I have a prayer request, along with many other, my job may be in jeopardy. I can't go into details now but I ask you to pray for discernment, guidance, and death to my will during this situation.

Ok, so much for the downer, how did you spend your New Years?

Winter in Nebraska

2010-01-02T00:01:00.001-06:00

There's a saying in Nebraska, "If you don't like the weather just wait it'll change".

When it comes to winter in Nebraska anything goes. Can't really complain about the last few winters; they've been pretty good to us.

This year is different, I think we've gotten more snow so far this year then in a few years combines - what's with that???

Here's a couple of comics I received via email, they just say it all:

I am a fan of snow, I love a good blizzard that snows us in all snugglie and warm. However just 1 not 2 (like we've had this month) and not over the Christmas holiday. And I prefer not to have to wait 4 days to get out of my house. Am I getting to picky????

Oh well, just wanted to share these with you.

P.S. My hand in the one in the front. :)

Happy New Year

2010-01-01T00:01:00.001-06:00

I hope 2009 was great and 2010 is even better.

Happy New Year!

Wrapping up 2009

2009-12-31T00:01:00.004-06:00

Can you believe it - this is my 200th post. I also can't believe it's the end of another year. Where has the time gone?

I also wanted to share another special announcement with you. I got a very special Christmas gift this year - a son-in-law.

Yup, Nick proposed to Big K. They have scheduled a 2012 wedding date, at that point Nick will be out of the Marines (currently stationed in CA) and Big K will be about done with the first part of her education, (studying to be a vet). Needless to say Big K is floating around on cloud 9 right now - don't they make a cute couple?

I heard on the radio today on the way to work that a parent is very much like an archer and our children are the arrow. With much practice the archer can release the arrow from the bow and hit the target every time. Just has parents we train our children in the way they should go and one day we will release them just as the archer releases the arrow. So I guess it's my time to release my first arrow - Congratulations Nick & Karissa.

As I look back at 2009 I find myself just shaking my head, seriously where did the year go? There's been a lot of changes in my world, some I've handle pretty good - others not so good; but we move on.

As we bring in the new year let's reflect on the past, look forward to the future, and live today.

May you be blessed in 2010.

Sheryl

The Seven Wonders of the World

2009-12-30T00:01:00.001-06:00

How true this is.

Out of the mouths of babes

2009-12-29T00:01:00.001-06:00

My niece's 5 year son:

"God knows that so much snow is a pain so he added all the sparkles in the snow to make it beautiful."

Plan B

2009-12-27T10:53:00.001-06:00

I hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas. As for me, it was wonderful, different, but wonderful.

It started snowing on Thursday and continued to snow and blow through Christmas leaving behind 8 inches of snow and 3-4 foot snow drifts. I'm assuming that our street is very low priority considering they just plowed at 2:00 a.m. this morning (Sunday). We have small cars low to the ground, needless to say we are just getting out today. I love being home but when it's a choice, can't wait to get out.

My family did not make it down so it was a rather quiet day. We'll schedule another time to get together and celebrate. I am thankful that everyone was safe and warm in there homes.

The bad weather outside only made us go to plan B, the spirit of Christmas continued on. We spent the day opening presents, eating, watching movies, eating, playing the Wii, eating - I think you get the idea. It was a wonderfully relaxing day with B, Little K, Big K, and Big K's boyfriend, N. That's N's car in the picture above, B is trying to dig it out.

I have to wonder how it was for Mary so many years ago, giving birth in a stable. The Bible doesn't talk about the details but I'm sure giving birth now is the same as it was then, only now we have comfortable beds in a climate controlled room with people around to meet our every need.

How did you celebrate your Christmas? Did the weather affect your plans? Did you have to go to a plan B or maybe even a plan C? I would love to hear about your Christmas.

2009-12-25T00:30:00.001-06:00

Thankful Thursday

2009-12-24T00:30:00.001-06:00

Week #6

I am going on a journey with Truth 4 the Journey.

The aim is to list 5 things which you are thankful to God for!

Today, in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord.
Luke 2:11

God is bigger then anything we can go through. He is truly in control.

1. Originally I requested to take the 24th off from work. Since I am out of vacation days it would be with out pay but the time with my family is priceless. Last Thursday my boss came in and told me he decided to give us the 24th off with holiday pay. I am so thankful the extra day off with pay.

2. A winter storm warning is scheduled from 12/24, 6:00 am to 12/26, 6:00 am with a possibility of 8-12 inches of snow. I am so thankful to have 12/24 off from work and do not have to go out in the storm.

3. I am thankful that God orchestrated my family's scheduled so that no one has to go out during the storm Thursday or Friday.

4. I am thankful for a husband who moves cars around in the morning so that I can get my car out of the garage.

5. As of right now I do not know if my sisters and their families will be able to come for Christmas or not due to the storm. But I am very thankful that they live in the same town and can still get together for the holiday.

I pray that each and everyone of you will have a blessed Christmas.

Almost Wordless Wednesday

2009-12-23T00:30:00.002-06:00

Another storm is just around the corner with predictions of 8-12 inches of snow. I wish I was back in Jamaica.

Truthfully, I don't mind the storm so much because I will be able to stay home and I am ready to celebrate Christmas. The bummer is that I don't know that my sisters and their families may make it down, they're about 60 miles away.

Wishing you all the best this Christmas Season.

May all your dreams come true.

2009-12-21T09:21:00.003-06:00

Fridays With Jake - A Celebration

2009-12-18T08:13:00.000-06:00

Mom's been MIA for a little while and she wanted me to apologize for her. With winter cheer, swim season, the holidays, and other issues causing her stress (she can't go into it right now) she has had some major writers block. But I talked her into letting me do my column today.

It's time for celebration, Big K just finished her first semester at college and has moved back home for the holiday break. In reality Big K is my human but when she moved away to college I stayed with mom and dad. And, today is Little K's last day of classes, that means I will have human company during the day until after the new year. I just love it when my family is around.

Dad's company is shutting down sometime next week for the holidays - the more the merrier, I just wish mom could stay home with us too.

I'm getting used to the new kitten (all 3.5 pounds of him). I love going up to him and putting my nose under his tummy and flipping him over. He must like it because he comes back for more. I just wish he would quit playing with my tail and attaching himself to my legs. Mom said to be patient, the claws come out at the end of the month. Ouch.....glad they arn't taking my claws out, after all how would I dig all of those lovely holes in the back yard. I know mom and dad just love my holes, they say something about them every time they see a new one.

As you already now it snowed lots here, I love playing in the snow. I just can't seem to get used to going outside via another door though, the snow has my door blocked.

Well I better go, I hear that kitten doing something and since mom is at work I better check on him for her.

Jake

Thankful Thursday

2009-12-10T00:30:00.001-06:00

Week #5

I am going on a journey with Truth 4 the Journey.
The aim is to list 5 things which you are thankful to God for!

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. Lamentations 3:22-23

1. We had a snow storm this week; the storm dumped about 9 inches of snow. I am so thankful that God brought my family back together Tuesday afternoon safe and sound.

2. With the frigid temperatures that are around to stay for a while, I am thankful for a warm house to come home to, coat, hat and gloves to wear while outside, and a warm bed to rest.

3. I am thankful for a God that is ever so faithful, who never gives up on us when we sometimes give up on ourselves.

4. I am thankful for all my cyber friends and pray you have a blessed season.

5. I am thankful for the new kitten in our home. He reminds me to live in the moment and just enjoy life.

What are you thankful for?

Snow storm in the midwest

2009-12-09T09:19:00.000-06:00

Yesterday the snow start as predicted. I went to work until noon and wished I'd stayed home. I got stuck four times before I made it back home. I made it into the drive way not the garage - stuck #5 - in the drive way, at least I was home.

After an afternoon and night of snow and wind, here's the results.

This is the door the dogs use. Hope they don't have to go out today.

Seriously, we have another door that leads to the back yard. Mother nature was good enough to keep part of the yard cleared out just for them.

Jake loves the snow, the other two - not so much. That's Jake in the upper right side of the picture.

We got about 10 inches of snow, it's 5 degrees and the wind chill takes us well below zero.

Even the deer is burying his head.

Heavenly Father,

Thank you for getting my family home safely and keeping us warm all night. The first snow storm of the season can be so exciting, a new adventure.

But there are some who do not have a warm home to go to. I pray you will give them relief from the frigid temperatures. Give them a warm place to stay and hot food to eat.

Amen.

Star City Parade

2009-12-06T18:09:00.000-06:00

On the 1st Saturday of December Lincoln has "The Star Holiday Parade." It's such a festive time with vendors on the streets and clowns walking around.

Some years have been absolutely freezing but people show up with their yard chairs and blankets and bundle up for the show.

One year the weather was so bad all of the bands pulled out except one, this year however was great. The sun was shinning, the temperature was somewhere in the upper 30's lower 40's and the breeze was ever so slight.

The streets were lined with adults and kids alike waiting for the parade to begin. There were also some four legged friends who came out in the cold to take in the festivities.

What a great way to start off the season. I wanted to share a little bit of it with you.

I think the candy canes and Christmas balls were my favorite. You can't see it in this picture but they had a hard time keeping up on the parade route. Their costumes went below their knees and made it very had for them to walk - but they were SO cute.

Our four legged friends even got a part in the festivities....

There must have been at least 12 different bands, here's my favorite band.

And of course my favorite band member -

Little K....
(who is not so little anymore)

I hope everyone had a wonderful weekend.

Road Trip

2009-11-28T14:05:00.003-06:00

Krispy Kreme doughnuts are wonderful, definitely can satisfy any sweet tooth. Not so good on the waist line but hey - anything in moderation right???? The problem with Krispy Kreme doughnuts is that there is not one on every corner.

About 7 years ago we got a wild hair to run to Omaha (about a 45 minuter drive) on a Krispy Kreme run. It was 9:00 o'clock on a Saturday night. We stop and kid napped my sister and her daughter, (I was nice enough to let them change out of their pj's) and off we went.

What a memory that made for Big K. Over the last few weeks she has been talking about the spur of the moment rode trip. So last night at the magic hour of 9:00 p.m. we headed to Omaha (now an hour drive) on a Krispy Kreme run.

Sorry for the quality of the pictures, this was taken on my phone.

Who would have thought two girls could have had so much fun taking a road trip for doughnuts?

2 hours round trip, $16 for doughnuts, 10 minutes eating the doughnuts in store, memories - priceless.

Let the games begin

2009-11-24T00:30:00.001-06:00

The swimming season has begun and this will be Little K's 3rd year of high school compatition. She has been swimming for over 10 years now.

Practice officially started on November 16 and will end with state competition on February 27, 2010.

LNS is a fairly new high school, this is it's 7th year. Last year Little K was the first girl to qualify for two individual events at the state level and her name on the record board for several events.

Saturday the team had an Intra-Squad meet. It's a meet within the team and just for fun. It also gives the coaches some base line times.

Little K's strongest events are the 50 & 100 yard free style, these are the events she had qualifying state times for. It usually takes most of the season to reach the state qualifying times. We were very surprised when Little K had a time of 27.73 in the 50 free style, the state qualifying time for that event is 25.91.

Practice consists of 5:30 a.m. weight training 3 times a week with a full workout in the pool 6 days a week. Her goal this year is to qualify for the 2nd day of state competition.

I am very thankful for the talent God has blessed her with.

The Kitten

2009-11-23T00:30:00.004-06:00

He had no choice, he was taken from his family and put into a new environment, in the blink of an eye his life changed as he knew it.

He is scared and nervous, what will become of him? Everything familiar has been replaced with things and smells he's never experienced before. Why is this happening? He may never know, he may never understand.

He embraces the life he has been blessed with as he explores the new surrounding, what does this new life have to offer. As he investigate he finds places of comfort; a soft blanket, food and water, a warm and loving lap. He also finds places that cause him stress and worry, the banister he can climb on but not sure how to get off or the dogs who come up to him suddenly.

It's in these times that he relies on his master to rescue him, to wrap him in their arms and whispers soft words in his ears letting him know that everything will be all right, they will take care of him.

So as life would have it for a cat he continues in his feline ways, everything is a toy to be played with, he lives in the moment knowing that his master will take care of him.

We are no different. In the blink of an eye our lives can change as we know it - never to be the same again; the loss of a loved one, the loss of a job, or physical injury to ourselves or someone else putting us in unfamiliar territory.

Like the kitten we may never know or understand why it has happened. It's during those times of change we need to live in the moment and rely on the master to rescue us, to let him wrap us up in his arms and whisper those soft words assuring us that He will take care of everything.

When I said, "My foot is slipping, your love, O Lord, supported me. When anxiety was great within me, your consolation brought joy to my soul. Psalm 94:18-19

Note to self

2009-11-22T00:30:00.001-06:00

The Turkey Run

2009-11-21T00:30:00.001-06:00

Fridays with Jake

2009-11-20T00:30:00.004-06:00

Hello everyone, I would like to show you around the back yard.

Big K

Little K

My favorite outside toy, empty milk container.

I love my toy even more when when off of the 2 legged family members is on the other end.

Oh and the back scratches bring me to my knees.

Oh yeah, wouldn't be complete if I didn't show you my biggest temptation; the Great Dane in on the other side of this fence.

....after a hard day of play in the back yard.

See ya next week.
Jake

Thankful Thursday

2009-11-19T07:17:00.032-06:00

Week #4

I am going on a journey with Truth 4 the Journey.
The aim is to list 5 things which you are thankful to God for!

Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise is name. Psalm 100:4

1. Sad to admit but sometimes when I sit down to write this "thankful post" nothings comes to ming right away. I am Thankful for Truth 4 the Journey for putting this weekly post out there for us to participate in. It makes me stop and realize how blessed I truly am.

2. I stepped on the scale this morning and it wasn't nice to me. That shows that God has blessed us with food in our cupboards and for that I am Thankful. Now to stop abusing that food.

3. Last night I fell asleep in the chair watching a television program. I was some what disgusted with myself because I did not get a couple of things done that I wanted to. I am Thankful however for the time of rest that God blessed me with.

4. I am Thankful for a God that assures us he is there and has everything under control. We just need to open our eyes and look for him, he's everywhere.

5. I am Thankful for the wonder life mate/husband God has blessed me with. Among many many things I love him for breaking down and letting us get a kitten. A kitten that is full of life, joy, and just makes me laugh.

New Family Member

2009-11-15T16:57:00.001-06:00

Hi guys, it's me again. Since I am the youngest and I also don't get much blog time mom is letting me introduce the newest member of the family.

If you'll remember last week mom talked about a kitten that Little K found in the street on her way to school, you can read about it here.

Mom was proud of Little K for not asking to keep it. Little did she know at the time, Little K was secretly hoping the kitty would survive because she wanted to adopted it. If you haven't read the story, the kitty was too injured and had to be put down.

Rewind 10 weeks, there was a pregnant cat whose owner no longer wanted it and told her neighbor she was going to dump it in the country or throw it in the river. The neighbor took mercy on the little mother to be and brought her into her home. The cat had her kittens, safe and sound, and now it's time for those kittens to find homes of their own.

The daughter to this neighbor is a friend and swimming team mate of Little K. Little K told her about the cat she found and her friend told her about the kitties they were finding homes for. Needless to say once Little K saw pictures of these kittens it was all over, darn cell phones and there ability to send pictures.

Here's a picture of Little K picking up her new kitten.

It amazing, the colors and markings of this kitten are so much like the one she found in the road. I happen to like the colors and marking, see the resemblance?

She named him Sammy. Here is exploring Little K's room.

Maddie and I just knew something was different, we could smell it. We just couldn't get down stairs.

Finally, we meet the little critter. We could almost be twins don't ya think? :)

Not sure dad appreciates Sammy...but..

....he sure melts mom's heart.

Jake

Friday With Jake

2009-11-13T00:30:00.005-06:00

Bet you didn't know I could dance:

Here's my version of break dancing.....Maddie wasn't impressed.

Thankful Thursday

2009-11-12T00:30:00.002-06:00

Week #3

I am going on a journey with Truth 4 the Journey.
The aim is to list 5 things which you are thankful to God for!

Each day that we live, he provides for our needs and gives us the strength of a young eagle. Psalm 103:5

1. I am so Thankful for a caring God, who doesn't give up on us when we give up on ourselves.

2. I am Thankful for a chance to start each day fresh with new possibilities and hope.

3. I am Thankful that I am a work in progress - God is not finished with me yet.

4. I am Thankful that God brings my family home every night safe and sound and watches over them during the day.

5. I am Thankful for all of the fund raising opportunities God gave us this summer and fall to apply towards Little K's cheer uniform and other cheer expenses. Between a trip to the Liberty Bowl, band camp, and new uniforms this was an expensive year. Through God's grace Little K and I have earned (fund raised) enough money to pay for her entire cheer bill without having to dip into the personal budget.

6. I just have to add this one: I am so Thankful that my open pill bottle landed and spilled on the floor beside the open toilet instead of in it.

Have a great day and may God overflow you with blessings.

Morning Detour

2009-11-10T00:30:00.004-06:00

When Big K first got her drivers license I practically panicked each time the phone rang when she was gone. I was just sure she was calling to tell me she'd been in an accident. After about a month later that fear diminished.

When Little K started driving the fear never returned and one month to the date she received her drivers license I received a call saying she had an accident. That accident ended up totaling her car. You can read more about her accident here.

About 10 minutes after Little K left for school this morning the phone rang. It's Little K and she's very excited; my first thought was "crap, she's had an accident." Why do we mothers put ourselves through that?

She started to tell me how she was on her way to school, the car in front of her swerved and all of a sudden there it was - a black lump in the road. She proceeds to pull into a drive way and retrieve a little kitten.

"I couldn't just leave him there mom to get hit, what do I do with it?" she asks. I'm think to myself "yeah, what do you do with it?" Being the cold, stern mother I am I said, "Fine, bring it back home we'll figure something out."

And here he is:

He's so cute, but something had to be wrong with him. When Jake sniffed him (mind you the cat is smaller then Jake's nose) the cat didn't even move. When I tried to stand him up he just fell. He didn't act like he was in pain but something just wasn't right.

My fear was Little K was going to beg to keep him but instead she asked me if I wanted her to take it to the humane society; and that's was she did. We will never know the destiny of that little kitty but it warms my heart to see the compassion in Little K's eyes when she was taking care of him.

Take care little kitty may God bless you.

Update: Little K called the humane society and found out the kitty is just too injured and will have to be put down. She is upset and just doesn't understand. Please prayer for her understanding.

Kids In Church

2009-11-08T05:00:00.003-06:00

3-year-old Reese :
'Our Father, Who does art in heaven,
Harold is His name.
Amen.'
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

A little boy was overheard praying:
'Lord, if you can't make me a better boy, don't worry about it.
I'm having a real good time like I am.'
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

After the christening of his baby brother in church,
Jason sobbed all the way home in the back seat of the car.
His father asked him three times what was wrong.
Finally, the boy replied,
'That preacher said he wanted us brought up in a Christian home,
and I wanted to stay with you guys.'
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

One particular four-year-old prayed,
'And forgive us our trash baskets
as we forgive those who put trash in our baskets.'
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

A Sunday school teacher asked her children as they
were on the way to church service,
'And why is it necessary to be quiet in church?'
One bright little girl replied,
'Because people are sleeping.'
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

A mother was preparing pancakes for her sons, Kevin 5, and Ryan 3
The boys began to argue over who would get the first pancake.
Their mother saw the opportunity for a moral lesson.
'If Jesus were sitting here, He would say,
'Let my brother have the first pancake, I can wait.'
Kevin turned to his younger brother and said,
' Ryan , you be Jesus !'
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

A father was at the beach with his children
when the four-year-old son ran up to him,
grabbed his hand, and led him to the shore
where a seagull lay dead in the sand..
'Daddy, what happened to him?' the son asked.
'He died and went to Heaven,' the Dad replied.
The boy thought a moment and then said,
'Did God throw him back down?'
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

A wife invited some people to dinner.
At the table, she turned to their six-year-old daughter and said,
'Would you like to say the blessing?'
'I wouldn't know what to say,' the girl replied.
'Just say what you hear Mommy say,' the wife answered.
The = daughter bowed her head and said,
'Lord, why on earth did I invite all these people to dinner?'

"And whoever welcomes a little child like this in my name welcomes me." Matthew 18:5

Friday With Jake

2009-11-06T00:30:00.002-06:00

Woof, that's dog for Hi and welcome back.

Little K took me to the dog run on Thursday, it was great. There were only few dogs so Little K let me off my lead until other dogs arrived.

Hey, who's that up there?

Yea, it's mom. She came to go for a walk with us.

Mom wanted me to pose and look pretty, I just wasn't in the mood. Gee mom, the guys are here.

I got a little out control, mom put me in time out. She said I wasn't playing nice with others.

We dogs will be dogs, it was a great trip to the dog run - I love riding in the car.

Oh yeah, mom wanted me to apologize for the pictures, they just didn't turn out very well. Probably because she had to keep watching out for the others dogs I wasn't getting along with.

Have a great weekend.

Love,

Jake

Thankful Thursday

2009-11-05T05:00:00.007-06:00

Week #2

I am going on a journey with Truth 4 the Journey.
The aim is to list 5 things which you are thankful to God for!

The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and I am helped. My heart leaps for joy and I will give thanks to him in song. Psalm 28:7

Click here to see what Sonja is thankful for and a list of others who are proclaiming their thanks as well.

1. Even though Big K goes to college now, I am so thankful that she is close enough to come home for a family dinner from time to time. And what I am really thankful for is the fact that she wants to come home for a family dinner from time to time. She'll call to see what's for dinner and what time. Shortly before dinner time she comes walking in the door with her school books for dinner and and an evening of studying. ----Awwww family....

2. I am thankful when God intercedes during a difficult conversation. Giving me the right words to say and putting his hand across my mouth when I should remain silent.

3. I am thankful for the technology that keeps me in contact with my family and friends no matter how far away they are.

4. This next one may sound lame, but I am thankful for an in-doors bathroom. Call me spoiled but I would not want to have to get up in the middle of the night in the dead of winter and go outside to go to the bathroom.

5. As I type this my head is starting to pound. I know sometime in the future I will be thankful for the laughter of Big K has she ~~pounds~~ runs down the hall chasing the dog making him bark and carry on. Right now however, not so much.

Thank you so much for taking the time out of your busy day to visit my blog, I am thankful for all of my blogger friends as well.

Sheryl

Wordless Wednesday - Fall pictures by B

2009-11-04T05:00:00.001-06:00

God has a sense of humor

2009-11-03T05:00:00.002-06:00

Little K received a plastic bag with 2 sugar cookies in it for Halloween. Not eating much sugar these days she gave the cookies to her ~~wonderfully deserving~~ parents.

We decided to have those cookies for dessert Sunday night. I ate mine right after dinner but B decided he would wait and have his for a snack later. He left the cookie on the table and didn't think anything more about it.

We went outside for a while and when we came back in we found this:

Jake, being a dog of opportunity tracked down the sweet treat and made it his.

Guess God had decided B didn't need that sugar cookie.

Dogs will be dogs :)

Laughter is the best medicine

2009-11-02T05:00:00.003-06:00

I have started following a blog called The Adventures Of MaxDog....In South Africa. Max is a gorgeous Golden Retriever who as the title indicates lives in South Africa.

In one of his post he takes about how South Africans love to laugh at themselves. According to Max, this is a trait that has developed nation wide due to all of the hardships they have faced.

It's been said laughter is the best medicine. Humor and laughter strengthen your immune system, boost your energy, diminish pain, and protect you from the damaging effects of stress. Best of all, this priceless medicine is fun, free, and easy to use.

Laughter relaxes the whole body. A good, hearty laugh relieves physical tension and stress, leaving your muscles relaxed for up to 45 minutes after.
Laughter boosts the immune system. Laughter decreases stress hormones and increases immune cells and infection-fighting antibodies, thus improving your resistance to disease.
Laughter triggers the release of endorphins, the body’s natural feel-good chemicals. Endorphins promote an overall sense of well-being and can even temporarily relieve pain.
Laughter protects the heart. Laughter improves the function of blood vessels and increases blood flow, which can help protect you against a heart attack and other cardiovascular problems.

The things you can't do anything about, put them in the God box and let him handle them. Then have yourself a good belly laugh and see how much better you'll feel.

Click HERE to see Max's post about laughter and humor in South Africa and some pictures of signs you will see around the country.

Let's follow their example - let's laugh at ourselves:)

Sarah said, "God has brought me laughter, and everyone who hears about this will laugh with me." Genesis 21:6

What has caused you laughter? If you see something humorous take a picture and send it to me and I'll post/share the humor in another post.

Have a glorious day and laugh.

A memo from God

2009-11-01T05:00:00.001-06:00

To:                     YOU
Date: TODAY
From: GOD
Subject:    YOURSELF
Reference:    LIFE

This is God. Today I will be handling All of your problems for you. I do Not need your help. So, have a nice day.

I love you. And, remember... If life happens to deliver a situation to you that you cannot handle, do Not attempt to resolve it yourself! Kindly put it in the SFGTD (something for God to do) box. I will get to it in MY TIME. All situations will be resolved, but in My time, not yours.

Once the matter is placed into the box, do not hold onto it by worrying about it. Instead, focus on all the wonderful things that are present in your life now.

Now, you have a nice day.
God

Happy Halloween

2009-10-31T06:00:00.003-05:00

According to the History Channel Halloween's origins date back to the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain (pronounced sow-in). This all dates back about 2,000 years in the area now known as Ireland, United Kingdom and northern France.On November 1st the "Celts" would celebrated the mark of the new year. This also marked the end of summer and harvest and the beginning of winter. A time often associated with death.

On the night before, October 31, they celebrated Samhain. It was believed that the ghosts of the dead would return to earth causing trouble of damaging crops. They also felt this time of ghostly presence made it easier for the Druids, or Celtic priests, to make predictions about the future.
To commemorate the event, Druids built huge sacred bonfires, where the people gathered to burn crops and animals as sacrifices to the Celtic deities.

During the celebration, they wore costumes, typically consisting of animal heads and skins, and attempted to tell each other's fortunes. When the celebration was over, they re-lit their hearth fires, which they had extinguished earlier that evening, from the sacred bonfire to help protect them during the coming winter. Click here to read more details.

As European immigrants came to America, they brought their varied Halloween customs with them. However, these customs were primary celebrated in Maryland and the southern colonies. As more immigrants flooded the country they helped to popularize the celebration nationally. The first celebrations included "play parties," public events held to celebrate the harvest, where neighbors would share stories of the dead, tell each other's fortunes, dance, and sing. Colonial Halloween festivities also featured the telling of ghost stories and mischief-making of all kinds. More detail can be found here.

The American tradition of "trick-or-treating" probably dates back to the early All Souls' Day parades in England. During the festivities, poor citizens would beg for food and families would give them pastries called "soul cakes" in return for their promise to pray for the family's dead relatives.

Still curious has to how it all came about? Click here to read about the History of the Jack-o-lantern.

Have a safe Halloween and don't eat too much candy.

Fridays With Jake - From behind the nose

2009-10-30T05:00:00.002-05:00

Hi, let me introduce myself to you, my name is Jake and I am the youngest member of the family.

Mom let me ghost write a time or two and I have been begging for my own spot ever since. I got really excited when she put my picture up last week for "Wordless Wednesdays". I sure got some nice comments - thank you.

The family and I had a rough lesson in patience during my adoption process. Let me take you back:

I first laid eyes on my family in January of 2007. I knew from the moment they walked by the cage that was my family. I just had to convince them of it, dad was saying something about getting too big when he walked by.

You see - I am a rescued pup. I don't remember how I ended up at the Capital Humane Society but that's where I met my family. Don't take me wrong, they were very good to me but I wanted what every pup wants - a family of my own.

Back to the story, I was invited in to the "Get Acquainted" room to be introduced to what I was hoping was my new family. They were very nice and I just wanted to play with all of them at once. While I was playing with Big K I accidentally scratched her and drew blood (what ever blood is) but from what I gathered is wasn't good. I heard mom trying to tell them it wasn't my fault but they said something about policy and a waiting period.

I was put back in my kennel and they put something on my door. No one came to visit me and then I got sick. One of the kind people from the shelter loved on me and scratched me behind the ears. Then they put a lead on me and they said something about Puppy Foster Care until I was better. I was hoping they were taking me to the family I fell in love with - but they didn't.

In dog time it seemed like I was in puppy foster care forever. I felt like I would never see my hopeful family again. Then one day they took me back to the shelter where I found "mom". She was there waiting for me and took me to my new home.

And that is where I have lived for the last 2 1/2 years. Well got to go, mom says this is too long already. Blog with you more next Friday. Have a great weekend.

Thankful Thursday

2009-10-29T00:00:00.004-05:00

Week #1

I am going on a journey with Truth 4 the Journey.
The aim is to list 5 things which you are thankful to God for!

Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace, and be thankful. - Colossians 3:15

Click here to see what Sonja is thankful for and a list of others who are proclaiming their thanks as well.

1. This last Saturday our high school band had a State Marching Band Contest of which B and I were chaperons. It started raining on our way to the contest (contest location was about an hour away). It rained while we rehearsed and continued to rain while we waited for our turn to take the field. I am thankful that it stop raining shortly before the band took the field and the sun started to make an appearance.

2. As winter is approaching, I am so thankful for a warm house and a comfortable place to lay my head at night. I pray for those for are homeless and have to spend their time in the cold or looking for a place to get out of that cold.

3. I am thankful for the dishes left on the counter when the dishwasher is empty, it means my children are healthy and close by.

4. In this economy, I am thankful for having a job.

5. The H1N1 swept through my house a couple of weeks ago. At the time I wasn't so thankful, but now I'm thankful fevers only reached 102, aches were kept a bay with ibuprofen, and we only missed a week of school/work. So many people are getting hit harder and ending up in the hospital or worse. Thank you Lord for keeping my family safe during that time.

Thank you so much for taking the time out of your busy day to visit my blog, I am thankful for all of my blogger friends as well.

Wordless Wednesday

2009-10-27T21:44:00.002-05:00

Guest Writer

2009-10-23T00:10:00.001-05:00

Fridays with ?
Starting next week I will have a guest writer on Fridays.

Wonder who it'll be, hummmm.