Friday was JD's last elementary school May Day, in which they honored the 5th Graders. Before we left the house, JD says - "Um, Mama, could you please not cry today? It's soooo embarrassing". I promptly told him that I couldn't make any promises. Look people, it's not like I'm a big cryer. I'm not. I actually really really really don't like to cry. However, I knew I would at least tear up over the May Day program.
As most of you probably know, for whatever reason, Patriotic music and events have always made me tear up. I am guaranteed to shed some tears on 4th of July, when the Blues fly at their Homecoming show, anytime I hear God Bless the USA, and pretty much anytime I sing the Star Spangled Banner. It's one of the unique things that make me who I am I guess. If you can really listen to the words of God Bless America and not feel something I will never understand it. That being said...
Friday, I'm sitting outside at JD's May Day, and like every year, they parade all the military parents - in their uniforms - out in front of the crowd, God Bless the USA starts, and so do my tears. I couldn't help it. Then we said the pledge and sang the National Anthem. I stood there with my hand over my heart, thinking about how blessed I am to raise my son in this country. I thought about the endless opportunities he has, and I was so thankful. I'm sure he was glad that he was far enough away that he couldn't see me crying. =) On a different note - he was happy I checked him out early. I asked him what he wanted for his celebration lunch and wouldn't you know - he wanted Texaco Chinese take out, and to come home and play the Wii. Yeah, he got what he wanted.
On to personality traits. I realized something about myself this weekend...I'm a closet Type A personality. I would normally say that I am more Type B...laid back, not very competitive, pretty content. However, put me in charge of something and all of that changes. I helped with a baby shower this weekend and my friend, Mallory, is someone who I would definitely classify as Type A. Yet, we switched roles. I was the one who was uptight when the cake didn't get there on time. I was the one stressing out over the amount of food. She was the relaxed one. We got a good laugh out of that. ha! I would say that being divorced has helped foster my Type A traits. I know what it is like to have to take charge and I am not afraid to do it, however, I wouldn't say that is my normal role. Don't get me wrong - I'm not a push over. I am opinionated. I have a sassy mouth more often than not. It was just funny to fully realize that I can be just as Type A as the rest of them.
Now, to clarify a point on bad weather. As most people who know me well know - I am frightened of bad weather. If it starts lightning, I'm not good with being out. That being said - I am not afraid of rain folks. To all my well intentioned people who like to make comments about this fear of mine - if I say I don't want to go out in the rain - it's because I don't want to be on the road at midnight, in pouring weather, getting soak and wet getting in and out of the car, with people on the road that can't drive when the roads are dry - not because I'm scared of rain. It kind of frustrates me when people make that assumption. Now, once again, I'm not going to lie - if it starts lightning, the game changes. It's not like I call into work or anything, but my anxiety is definitely up when the weather is horrible. I'm working on it. I'm trying to relax. It's better than it used to be - trust me on this. I'm actually glad we got some good rain this weekend. JD's poor sinus issues have been out of control. He actually fell asleep Friday afternoon on the couch - and he NEVER naps, unless he's not feeling well.
Okay, that's all my randomness for tonight. It's after midnight, and once again, I'm not tired. I wonder what it's like to sleep the whole night without waking up. Have a great night, y'all!
Sunday, May 2, 2010
Lord, Please Help Me To Not Get The Missionaries Killed...
That was the prayer I was praying tonight. You see, tonight was our annual Missions service at church. After church, our missionaries from India came up and asked me if I could point them in the direction of the closest Mexican restaurant. Now those of you who know me well, know that I've actually gotten lost on the way to work before (long story - road was closed and had to take a detour), so I am a little apprehensive about giving directions. I came up with a great idea...they could just follow me and I'd take them to Vallartas on Hwy. 29.
I'm sitting in my car, waiting for both couples of missionaries to get in their cars and pull up behind me, I did say I quick prayer that I would not get anyone hurt trying to get to Vallartas. Vallartas isn't the easiest place to get into - you have to turn right into their parking lot while you are in the merge lane for Hwy 29 and that makes me nervous.
We pull out and it is foggy - I'm driving slow so I don't lose anyone and yes, we made it to Vallartas safely. Only to realize that Vallartas is closed, but the bar is in full swing. Nice. So, no Mexican food, but I did end up at a bar. Real nice. Needless to say, I jump out of my car, my accent gets very thick and I explain that they must've closed. No worries...they did eventually find something to eat. =)
I'm sitting in my car, waiting for both couples of missionaries to get in their cars and pull up behind me, I did say I quick prayer that I would not get anyone hurt trying to get to Vallartas. Vallartas isn't the easiest place to get into - you have to turn right into their parking lot while you are in the merge lane for Hwy 29 and that makes me nervous.
We pull out and it is foggy - I'm driving slow so I don't lose anyone and yes, we made it to Vallartas safely. Only to realize that Vallartas is closed, but the bar is in full swing. Nice. So, no Mexican food, but I did end up at a bar. Real nice. Needless to say, I jump out of my car, my accent gets very thick and I explain that they must've closed. No worries...they did eventually find something to eat. =)
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
I Can See the World From Here...
Be aware...this could get a little preachy. I am standing in front of my soap box, about to jump on.
It seems lately that I hear people complaining about their lives..."life is so unfair, I want the latest iPhone, newest car, I haven't been given the same opportunities as so and so, I always struggle...." Fill in the blank. Here is where my issue come in...
Let me tell you that if you were born in this country, you started out ahead of the gang. Please know that I am not making light of some very real struggles in this life - with people in this country - but I'm growing a bit weary of people believing that if they can't afford a car that cost $40k or a house seven times that amount then you are suffering. Or, because you were raised by poor parents, or incompetant parents, or whatever then you just couldn't get ahead in life. Really? See, I just don't agree with that. It might not be easy, but you can do it.
Today I was reading an article about a city in Iran where the Chief of Police has come out and said that they are going to start rounding up women that look too tan and putting them in prison for violating Islamic law. That is a very real threat. You want to know someone that is not given an opportunity? Talk to those women. It is believed that those women are the reason that earthquakes are happening. Or read the articles about the young girls sold off, without any say, and married to these men that have absolute control over everything in their lives. There is someone that doesn't have an opportunity. Or look at all the young children who are orphans - fending for themselves and trying to make it and maybe even providing for their families, too. These are real people - with very real problems.
I'm not trying to sound like an add for "Save the Children" which we've seen so many times, we either have grown immune to the images, or we change the channel in fear of feeling too much or overwhelmed by the massive scope of the issues. I just wish we - myself included - would take a moment to look around and be thankful. You see, as trivial as it is, I'm going to go to the beach this weekend...I'm going to get sun on my face, and no one is going to be looking to persecute me for violating a law. I am going to go to church on Sunday and openly worship in the way I want to worship and I won't worry about being thrown into prison. I'm going to go to work, openly communicate with people of all backgrounds, all religions, all points of view, and we are not worried about being afraid for agreeing or disagreeing with a certain political view.
We really need to open our eyes to a world view...not just a view of our own homes. Yes, you can even have a world view if you have only lived in one place your entire life. It's about opening your heart, and your mind to see other situations around you. It's about being thankful for where you are and maybe being able to help someone else - whether that person is next door, in another city, state or even in another country.
You see, I hope that my heart is never hardened to those around me. I truly desire to still be able to be moved by another person's situation. I want to be able to reach out with love to those around me, and not get so wrapped up in my day to day that I am blinded to the needs of others.
On a different note...I know it's not Memorial Day or Veteran's Day, but I was also thinking today about how thankful I am for the people who have served in the military. I'm thankful for those that are going out - even right now as I lie in my bed and type this blog - and helping to keep this country safe...helping to keep other countries safe. They have made sacrificies that I can't imagine. From leaving their families to paying the ultimate price, these people have done something for this country that I haven't done and for that I am thankful. Anyways, thanks to all of my friends who have served or are still serving.
I hope y'all have a good night!
It seems lately that I hear people complaining about their lives..."life is so unfair, I want the latest iPhone, newest car, I haven't been given the same opportunities as so and so, I always struggle...." Fill in the blank. Here is where my issue come in...
Let me tell you that if you were born in this country, you started out ahead of the gang. Please know that I am not making light of some very real struggles in this life - with people in this country - but I'm growing a bit weary of people believing that if they can't afford a car that cost $40k or a house seven times that amount then you are suffering. Or, because you were raised by poor parents, or incompetant parents, or whatever then you just couldn't get ahead in life. Really? See, I just don't agree with that. It might not be easy, but you can do it.
Today I was reading an article about a city in Iran where the Chief of Police has come out and said that they are going to start rounding up women that look too tan and putting them in prison for violating Islamic law. That is a very real threat. You want to know someone that is not given an opportunity? Talk to those women. It is believed that those women are the reason that earthquakes are happening. Or read the articles about the young girls sold off, without any say, and married to these men that have absolute control over everything in their lives. There is someone that doesn't have an opportunity. Or look at all the young children who are orphans - fending for themselves and trying to make it and maybe even providing for their families, too. These are real people - with very real problems.
I'm not trying to sound like an add for "Save the Children" which we've seen so many times, we either have grown immune to the images, or we change the channel in fear of feeling too much or overwhelmed by the massive scope of the issues. I just wish we - myself included - would take a moment to look around and be thankful. You see, as trivial as it is, I'm going to go to the beach this weekend...I'm going to get sun on my face, and no one is going to be looking to persecute me for violating a law. I am going to go to church on Sunday and openly worship in the way I want to worship and I won't worry about being thrown into prison. I'm going to go to work, openly communicate with people of all backgrounds, all religions, all points of view, and we are not worried about being afraid for agreeing or disagreeing with a certain political view.
We really need to open our eyes to a world view...not just a view of our own homes. Yes, you can even have a world view if you have only lived in one place your entire life. It's about opening your heart, and your mind to see other situations around you. It's about being thankful for where you are and maybe being able to help someone else - whether that person is next door, in another city, state or even in another country.
You see, I hope that my heart is never hardened to those around me. I truly desire to still be able to be moved by another person's situation. I want to be able to reach out with love to those around me, and not get so wrapped up in my day to day that I am blinded to the needs of others.
On a different note...I know it's not Memorial Day or Veteran's Day, but I was also thinking today about how thankful I am for the people who have served in the military. I'm thankful for those that are going out - even right now as I lie in my bed and type this blog - and helping to keep this country safe...helping to keep other countries safe. They have made sacrificies that I can't imagine. From leaving their families to paying the ultimate price, these people have done something for this country that I haven't done and for that I am thankful. Anyways, thanks to all of my friends who have served or are still serving.
I hope y'all have a good night!
Sunday, April 18, 2010
I Think I'll Take A Moment To Celebrate My Age...
So starts one of my favorite Tim McGraw songs. Actually, for some reason that has been one of JD's favorite songs lately. Even though I'm a year past the 30 talked about in the song, I thought it was still appropriate.
It goes on to say "the ending of an era and the turning of a page - now it's time to focus in on where I go from here - Lord have mercy on my next 30 years".
Probably because another year has come and gone, it has been on my mind lately how quickly time passes. It's almost like you just get settled in to one year and you're heading into the next. I have a son that is almost as tall as I am. Wow. Really? A pre-teen? Really? How?
In my 31 years I've experienced broken bones, a broken heart, flat tires, tears that flowed and didn't seem to stop, disappointments, jobs that absolutely stank, betrayal, grief, overwhelming stress, unbelievable sadness, what seemed like crushing defeat, the loss of family -
But thankfully my story doesn't end there......
I've also experienced the birth of my son, overwhelming grace, mercies that are new each morning, a joy that can't be denied, a heart that still loves, friends that are as close as family, family that is stronger than any super hero ever imagined, opportunities that had to be devine, support when I needed it, a hand to hold when I was at my weakest, a confidence that cannot be taken away, laughing until I cried, a child that makes me proud, a belief in the greatness of the future and what it has in store, and much much more.
I've often heard people talk about turning a certain age and how sad they were because they felt as if they were getting old. I don't understand this. I've earned every bit of the 31 years I've been blessed with. I wear the scars, I delight in the redemption. I am absolutely amazed at the opportunity of life that I've been given. I am thankful. So thankful. As I look back on it, I wouldn't change a thing. Each experience has helped contribute to the person I am today. I am happy to say that I don't have to live in my past, but I can look forward to what life has in store for me.
In closing, here is a quote that has seemed to stick with me lately - Most people are as happy as they make their minds up to be...Abraham Lincoln. Well, I've got my mind made up.
It goes on to say "the ending of an era and the turning of a page - now it's time to focus in on where I go from here - Lord have mercy on my next 30 years".
Probably because another year has come and gone, it has been on my mind lately how quickly time passes. It's almost like you just get settled in to one year and you're heading into the next. I have a son that is almost as tall as I am. Wow. Really? A pre-teen? Really? How?
In my 31 years I've experienced broken bones, a broken heart, flat tires, tears that flowed and didn't seem to stop, disappointments, jobs that absolutely stank, betrayal, grief, overwhelming stress, unbelievable sadness, what seemed like crushing defeat, the loss of family -
But thankfully my story doesn't end there......
I've also experienced the birth of my son, overwhelming grace, mercies that are new each morning, a joy that can't be denied, a heart that still loves, friends that are as close as family, family that is stronger than any super hero ever imagined, opportunities that had to be devine, support when I needed it, a hand to hold when I was at my weakest, a confidence that cannot be taken away, laughing until I cried, a child that makes me proud, a belief in the greatness of the future and what it has in store, and much much more.
I've often heard people talk about turning a certain age and how sad they were because they felt as if they were getting old. I don't understand this. I've earned every bit of the 31 years I've been blessed with. I wear the scars, I delight in the redemption. I am absolutely amazed at the opportunity of life that I've been given. I am thankful. So thankful. As I look back on it, I wouldn't change a thing. Each experience has helped contribute to the person I am today. I am happy to say that I don't have to live in my past, but I can look forward to what life has in store for me.
In closing, here is a quote that has seemed to stick with me lately - Most people are as happy as they make their minds up to be...Abraham Lincoln. Well, I've got my mind made up.
Sunday, April 11, 2010
P90X Week 2 - Done!
I've made it two weeks! Yeah me! No really - Yeah me! =) I've found that I actually look forward to doing the workouts. Not that I love working out, but that I love the way I feel when I get done. I went yesterday and bought heavier weights because my weights were too light. Not that I'm using huge weights now - only 10 lbs, but I'm just wanting to get lean.
I measured last week and I lost an inch off my hips in the first week. I know I have a long way to go, but that was encouraging. We all know that I've got some serious junk, so I'll take every inch off that I can get. =)
I will have to say that is has been a little easier because my co-workers are supporting me, too. The hardest time for me is lunch time when we usually go out. Instead, I have my lunch bag, we eat and then go for a walk. I feel so much better - and my checking account is loving it, too.
Well, my birthday is next Sunday and I know I'm still going out for my birthday, but I've made plans to figure out what I want to eat in advance - that way I'm not making the decision then.
All in all...I'm loving P90X. I can hardly wait to see the 90 day results. Then it will be time for round 2!
I measured last week and I lost an inch off my hips in the first week. I know I have a long way to go, but that was encouraging. We all know that I've got some serious junk, so I'll take every inch off that I can get. =)
I will have to say that is has been a little easier because my co-workers are supporting me, too. The hardest time for me is lunch time when we usually go out. Instead, I have my lunch bag, we eat and then go for a walk. I feel so much better - and my checking account is loving it, too.
Well, my birthday is next Sunday and I know I'm still going out for my birthday, but I've made plans to figure out what I want to eat in advance - that way I'm not making the decision then.
All in all...I'm loving P90X. I can hardly wait to see the 90 day results. Then it will be time for round 2!
Thursday, April 8, 2010
Teeth Whitener and Wrinkle Cream...
As I'm closing in on another birthday, it seems like I've been a little more concerned with things like wrinkle cream and teeth whitener. See, I figure if I wake up at 60 and decide to start taking care of my skin, it will probably be a little too late. =)
So, several weeks back JD and I went to our local Walmart to look at Oil of Olay products. As we are standing there, JD notices that one of the wrinkle creams costs $60 to which he says "SIXTY DOLLARS FOR WRINKLE CREAM? You don't even have wrinkles, Mama. Why in the world would someone pay that kind of money for wrinkle cream". Of course, the ladies standing around us were laughing. I explained that I was starting out small - not with the $60 cream, but hey I might use it one day. Well we ended up with a face wash and a night time cream. I came home and could hardly wait to wash my face. I washed my face, got out of the shower and I'm telling you this....that stuff was so harsh that I promise you my face felt like if I smiled too big it would crack. You ever seen a picture of the desert all dried out - yep accurate description. Needless to say, the wrinkle cream felt nice. ha!
Fast forward to last week. My skin is adjusting to the new "dry it out, then put wrinkle cream on" skin care approach, so I thought I'd tackle the teeth whitening portion. I go into Walmart - once again - and I look for just Crest White Strips, to which I was informed that my Walmart will no longer be carrying them, so I bought the trays. You know, the ones that fit right in your mouth and you wear them for 45 minutes. Well, you're supposed to do that every day for a week. Here's my problem. First off, I get the trays all in and I realize that it doesn't say whether you can swallow that stuff or not, so I sit there trying not to swallow until I finally hear from Mallory and she informs me that it will be okay. I was glad JD wasn't there to witness this.
I wake up this morning and I guess the whitener is working so good that it actually managed to burn a hole on the inside of my lip. Oh yes, it did. Ouch. Needless to say, after 5 days of whitening, I've decided to take a few days off from that process. Ha!
All in all - I think I would like to grow old gracefully. Maybe wrinkles aren't so bad.
So, several weeks back JD and I went to our local Walmart to look at Oil of Olay products. As we are standing there, JD notices that one of the wrinkle creams costs $60 to which he says "SIXTY DOLLARS FOR WRINKLE CREAM? You don't even have wrinkles, Mama. Why in the world would someone pay that kind of money for wrinkle cream". Of course, the ladies standing around us were laughing. I explained that I was starting out small - not with the $60 cream, but hey I might use it one day. Well we ended up with a face wash and a night time cream. I came home and could hardly wait to wash my face. I washed my face, got out of the shower and I'm telling you this....that stuff was so harsh that I promise you my face felt like if I smiled too big it would crack. You ever seen a picture of the desert all dried out - yep accurate description. Needless to say, the wrinkle cream felt nice. ha!
Fast forward to last week. My skin is adjusting to the new "dry it out, then put wrinkle cream on" skin care approach, so I thought I'd tackle the teeth whitening portion. I go into Walmart - once again - and I look for just Crest White Strips, to which I was informed that my Walmart will no longer be carrying them, so I bought the trays. You know, the ones that fit right in your mouth and you wear them for 45 minutes. Well, you're supposed to do that every day for a week. Here's my problem. First off, I get the trays all in and I realize that it doesn't say whether you can swallow that stuff or not, so I sit there trying not to swallow until I finally hear from Mallory and she informs me that it will be okay. I was glad JD wasn't there to witness this.
I wake up this morning and I guess the whitener is working so good that it actually managed to burn a hole on the inside of my lip. Oh yes, it did. Ouch. Needless to say, after 5 days of whitening, I've decided to take a few days off from that process. Ha!
All in all - I think I would like to grow old gracefully. Maybe wrinkles aren't so bad.
Sunday, April 4, 2010
I Survived!!
I survived my first week on P90X! Woot Woot! Heck, I am counting this as an accomplishment. I even forgot my lunch bag on Friday and went back home to get it so I could follow my meal plan. Trust me when I say, I would usually just eat out. =)
So, after a week, here are some observations:
1. I think you have to be determined to make it on this program. You can't go in half-hearted, or you will crap out after day one - certainly after plyometrics. Thanks to the person who said I couldn't do it. You actually helped me make it through this week.
2. I'm getting used to the small meals, and I actually like it.
3. Let's be real, my body would rather be fat and lazy - but I am feeling so much better already.
4. Sunday nights, after church, I need a plan or it's going to be late and I'll be hungry.
5. It's really all about planning and just doing it.
I have a goal in mind...which I accidentally loudly shared at Becky's house today. Once again - sorry Dan, I'm still blushing. ha! My goal isn't so much about weight loss, but about overall fitness and what the mirror says - not necessarily the scale.. That being said - I have lost 4 pounds this week. I know though that there is coming a time when my measurements will go down and my weight might not for a couple of weeks. That's fine - as long as I'm giving it my all.
There you go...I better get in bed soon. Tomorrow starts week 2 of P90X.
So, after a week, here are some observations:
1. I think you have to be determined to make it on this program. You can't go in half-hearted, or you will crap out after day one - certainly after plyometrics. Thanks to the person who said I couldn't do it. You actually helped me make it through this week.
2. I'm getting used to the small meals, and I actually like it.
3. Let's be real, my body would rather be fat and lazy - but I am feeling so much better already.
4. Sunday nights, after church, I need a plan or it's going to be late and I'll be hungry.
5. It's really all about planning and just doing it.
I have a goal in mind...which I accidentally loudly shared at Becky's house today. Once again - sorry Dan, I'm still blushing. ha! My goal isn't so much about weight loss, but about overall fitness and what the mirror says - not necessarily the scale.. That being said - I have lost 4 pounds this week. I know though that there is coming a time when my measurements will go down and my weight might not for a couple of weeks. That's fine - as long as I'm giving it my all.
There you go...I better get in bed soon. Tomorrow starts week 2 of P90X.
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