MY LIFE!

MISS MY LITTLE ANGELS!

2008-12-08T08:57:00.000-08:00

Boy I sure am missing these two little girls! Thank goodness we live in a time where all I have to do is have their mommy send me pictures via the internet and I can see them within minutes of the pictures being taken! I have always said I would have loved to live in the days of "Little House on the Prairie" but now maybe not so much!

Here are a few scrapblogs I did of them with the most recent pics Heather has sent to me!

Enjoy....

Time for reflection, decisions to be made..... blah, blah, blah....

2008-12-04T14:09:00.000-08:00

Well, I know it has been a while since I have posted. I have been busy making some major decisions for my life and preparing to carry them out!

This economy, high rent (house too big by myself), high electricity, driving 68 miles a day to and from work and on and on and on... I have decided to make a move into my parents for a couple months, pay off some bills, save some $$$$ and move into Springfield.

Rent is cheaper (even if I have to move into an apartment). I believe I need to downsize right now! Another big plus is cutting my driving time by like 90%! I am excited about that one.

So I hope to make my move into Springfield around March or April. My parents offered this after finding out how hard I was struggling so I thought long and hard about it and it was my only recourse at this time. Thank God they offered!

So I plan on moving in on Christmas day and be totally moved out of the farm house by then. My landlords really don't want me to leave, but they also understand the situation.

Needless to say without Heather and the girls here and all that has transpired since they left I am totally NOT in the Christmas spirit. Not one little bit. I just can't wrap myself around it this year at all. Oh well, It will be here and gone in 3 weeks from today. I have everything bought (glad I started early) and wrapped, mailed off to Germany and am waiting for Christmas eve with my family. Then it will be over for another year.

Next year will be better! Brian and Codie will be back in the states and in Missouri and Heather and David will hopefully be moving about that time to Leavonworth, KS, so all my kids will be alot closer to me!

Update....

2008-11-13T08:37:00.000-08:00

Heather and the girls arrived in Texas on Monday a.m. and were moved in by that afternoon. They ended up getting a 4 bedroom, 2 full bath home. She really likes the house, but not all the congestion of Killeen, TX. I think she misses Eudora area! LOL

She is going to get her internet set up fairly soon and will be back online shortly!

I took a few days off and cleaned and cleaned. The silence is deafening though... I really miss them all but I have alot of things coming up to keep me busy in the next few weeks. Lots of travel for work, I am doing another bible study right now, so I plan on keeping myself busy!

2008-11-04T05:45:00.000-08:00

Go out and Vote. I voted and was # 17 in Eudora today. Normally I am either #1 or #2... but the parking area was full and there was a line! It is great to see so many people out voting and making their voices heard!

Sunday was hard!

2008-11-03T05:39:00.000-08:00

One of the ladies from church got up after the invitation and asked Heather and the girls to come forward. So I went off to go get the girls out of the nursery. Valerie Killingsworth was telling everyone how Heather was heading back to Texas this week to get their housing set up and ready for when David comes home in Jan. So alot of people lined up to tell them goodbye and to come by and console "grandma". I guess it really really hit me that they are leaving and it is soon. I cried all the way home ( 1 whole mile!) and then had to have a talk with myself as I was fixing my lunch. I AM excited for them to all be a family again, but sure am going to miss all three of them. The day they leave is going to be a hard one at my little home.

Me and My Girls!

2008-10-26T13:45:00.000-07:00

24 Days left!

2008-10-17T06:53:00.000-07:00

Well we found out that Heather and the girls will be leaving for Ft. Hood, TX on Nov. 9th. She is beside herself with excitement. I know she wants to get it all started because that just means David will be home sooner! On the other hand, (I thought I was looking forward to this day) but it is hitting me that I won't have anyone at home when I get home to greet me, have those hugs and kisses from the girls whenever I want one (and they are willing! LOL), sitting and the sofa and having them come sit by grandma, seeing all the new things they are doing or saying each day. I am sooooooooooooo going to miss all three of them so much!

I went to the movie and dinner with a lady from my church and she is also single and living on her own and was seeking advice on how to keep from getting depressed and mired down in the loneliness. She was very helpful with her advice and we have decided that when we both get lonely we will just call each other and go out to eat, movies or just get together to talk. It is great having a good Christian friend I can talk to and be open with. Thanks Miss Shirley!

Oh, and I HIGHLY recommend the movie: Fireproof... It is very moving Christian movie.

What we did yesterday!

2008-10-09T08:43:00.001-07:00

My Favorite Time of Year!

2008-10-08T07:31:00.000-07:00

Fall is my absolute favorite time of the year! You can turn the a/c off and open the windows, listen to sounds of nature and have a cool breeze at the same time. It is Black Walnut Season and I have been picking up the ones in the yard. Maybe make enough to buy new drapes! LOL

I love the leaves turning all their rich colors. My landlord said one of the trees in my yard is the prettiest one in the county in the fall. I can't wait to see it in all its glory!

Hope everyone enjoys their day! I will.....

GRANDMA!!!

2008-10-04T15:56:00.000-07:00

Today I am babysitting the girls as Heather went with her Grandma Butler to Branson with her church. She was excited to get out of the house by herself and be all adult! LOL The girls and I went outside and picked up walnuts.... or should I say I held their attention with it for about 3 minutes then they didn't want to help anymore! They found a dirt pile that was much more entertaining than Grandma and her nasty ole' walnuts. I think I picked up about 6 - 5 gallon buckets. Anyway, while I was plugging away Ivy came running up to me and said Grandma, Grandma, and then Grandma again! And I have yet to get her to say it since. She generally calls me Ma Ma.. which I love also.

Then we came in had a snack and then watched TV a bit while Grandma did laundry, then at 5 I fixed dinner, cleaned up, cleaned up the girls..... bubble bath! Got them dressed and hair all combed, cleaned up the living room floor as well as Ivy's room and now it is only 5:50 and I am done for the evening until I get them to bed....

I use to have tons of energy and patience with my own kids, I am getting back the energy but the patience level is waining... today has been an exceptionally good day though! Thank you GOD!

Well, time to go cuddle with them in the recliner and watch yet another episode of Baby Einstein... I can't wait to see that collection heading towards Texas! LOL

No words needed.....

2008-10-02T07:59:00.000-07:00

Great Start!

2008-09-29T06:54:00.000-07:00

Well, I had a great start to my Monday. I am all ready to leave around 5:15 a.m. this morning and can't find my keys! I retraced my steps on Friday night and knew where I had left them,
they were NOT there, so then I slowly went through the house looking for them. I then woke up Heather to see if she had seen them. I finally, got frustrated enough that I stopped looking for a bit. Heather got up and I was retracing my steps on Saturday a.m.... (I hadn't used my car all weekend so I knew I hadn't had them in the car).... Anyway, I remembered I had gotten the double stroller out of the lower garage and used my keys to get into the garage. Well it is pitch black out there so I was going to wait until the sun started coming up before I went out there. Then I remembered putting the stroller in Heather's rig and doing other stuff out there, so Heather and I went on a short field trip to her car and I felt under the front seat and waalah! There they were. We both laughted but at that time I was already .45 mins. late in leaving. I had to run to wally world and get my lunch for this week so I ended up being about 1/2 hour late for work. So far, the rest of my morning hasn't been bad. I pray that it stays that way! It is amazing how something can just throw a wrench in your day/schedule and throw everything out of whack.....

Eudora Baptist Whiffle Ball Tournament....

2008-09-22T05:48:00.001-07:00

Scott and Belinda Martinsen
Logan Hickman playing first
Rachel after hitting her first homerun

Gina Stokes up to Bat!

Me, and the Thompsons! We enjoyed being spectators!"Cauliflower Power" team!
"Birdeye Boogers" team
Lullel Hickman and some of his team members!
Brad Euliss pitching

The 1st Annual Whiffle Ball Tournament was a blast to watch, maybe next year I will get out there and play! Everyone from little bitty guys and the older bunch had an awesome time.

My sister, Gina snapped all these pictures during the games. My niece, Rachel did really well all day long for the "Cauliflower Power" Team! But in the end, Kevin Marcum's team won the title! He did predict that would happen!

Our Saturday Morning...

2008-09-20T11:57:00.000-07:00

Lacy and her fiance' Juan Jones (or as Constance calls it "fuzzy ance")
Logan and Lacy at their apartment
Constance and Ivy at the Rutledge-Wilson Farm
Heather and the girls with a little pony
The Farm

This a.m. we met Gina and Rachel and drove to Springfield to visit Logan and Lacy at their new apartment. It was a really nice place. Lacy's fiance' Juan was there also.

THEN...

We decided on the way home (Constance was asking to go see the animals) that we would go to the Rutledge-Wilson Farm off of West Bypass. It is a great interactive farm for kids of all ages!

The girls like the animals and getting to pet them but today they liked sitting on the tractors the most! We spent over an hour there and then we headed home.

NOW....

Everyone is napping except ME!

Lions, Tigers and Bears oh MY... And Chicken Nuggets

2008-09-17T13:54:00.000-07:00

The Lion and his Lioness....
I made a new friend!
Ivy checking out the Hippo in the water!
My Constance!
Having a picnic at the park
Chicken nuggets anyone?
Constance on the slide
Here comes Ivy!
Mom and the girls! Ready for a walk through the zoo!

Today we decided was a good day to skip out on our responsibilities. I had a big list of stuff I wanted to get done today, but we decided to go and enjoy the weather. So we went and got lunch, went to the park for a picnic, played on the play equipment for a bit and then on to the zoo. It was a great day for it with the temperatures at around 75 degrees, sunny, light breeze and the girls had fun. Constance loves the zoo and all the animals, Ivy not so much! Not sure if it will be her thing or not! But she is a trooper and just layed back and watched. I am glad we did this today and all the things I wanted to get done are still here to be done, but we made memories today! And that is what counts!!!!

13th Annual Buddy Walk!

2008-09-12T13:01:00.000-07:00

This happy lil' guy is my second cousin, Brady. He has formed a team called, Brady's Bunch to walk in the 13th Annual Buddy Walk for Down Syndrome! He lives in the Kansas City area and their walk is Oct. 18th at the Arrowhead Stadium.

I am unable to walk with them this year :( but will be collecting donations to help out Brady and others like him. He was born April of 2007 and is a sweet boy. If you would like to donate to a great cause plase click on the link below and donate.

Now, how could anyone say no to a precious face like that?

http://www.syssolutions.com/KCBuddywalk/main/Team.aspx?FundraiserId=08498eb8-34eb-4d44-abdd-4e01cb7495df

Grandparents Day

2008-09-12T11:29:00.000-07:00

Ivy and Grandma
Constance getting all dolled up for Grandparents day concert!
Constance onstage
Pre-K
Great-Grandma Vote and Great-Grandpa Vote with Constance
Me and Constance

Today was Grandparents day at Constance's school. The group (pre-K) all got together and sang us a song. They did really well for 3, 4 and 5 year old kids. There were some funny and precious moments along the way!

Here are a few pictures from today! Enjoy

100th Post!

2008-09-08T13:25:00.000-07:00

Well this is my 100th post, didn't realize I was that close until I logged in!

Anyway, as you know I have been talking about moving to Springfield once Heather and the girls head back to Ft. Hood, Tx in December.

I have been going out to apartment complexes that I am interested in, ( think I have toured about 6-7 different ones). I am so not impressed. I guess it is because I have a great place now, a great landlord and I love it there. It is just the drive, but my little car gets good gas mileage so I really don't have much to complain about in that area.

So over the weekend I prayed about it and gave it alot of thought and have decided to stay right where I am at. My family, my church and my bible study ladies are all there and I don't want to give that up.

I am at peace with the decision and am looking forward to fixing up the place once Heather and the girls are fixing up their own place in Texas. I think both Heather and I are keeping our heads full of thoughts of decorating! I know she will be glad to get her own place again and I know I am looking forward to having my own place again.BUT I am going to miss them so very much! Especially, the evenings when I get home and there isn't anyone to greet me with hugs and kisses.

Ole' Rainy Day...

2008-09-04T04:57:00.001-07:00

Well, today is 2nd day of Gustav in our area. I love rain, I always feel like it washes everything clean. Kinda like a brand new start....

I leave today with the other two secretaries from our office for training in Jefferson City so we will have rain all the way there as what we had yesterday is in that area today...

Nothing much else going on right now. I have my post op appt this a.m. at 9:30 from my last surgery and that is about it. They will just check my incision sites and see if I have any questions. I will go ahead and set up a band fill appt. for next Wednesday. We thought about doing it today but with us leaving on business this afternoon it wasn't a great idea in case I had trouble with the fill.

That is my life at this moment in a nut shell... Looks kinda boring once I have it written out! LOL

Having fun!

2008-08-31T19:49:00.000-07:00

I have been playing around with changes to my blog site and my other blog site as well tonight. I like the changes I made here. I am really getting into the blues and browns that are so popular right now. So the new blog jpeg I added has those elements in it as well.

I am not sure I have tweaked it exactly like I want it, but so far it is good! Check back later for possible changes. I just love the website www.thecutestblogontheblock.com!

The Blue "Varmit" Marauder"

2008-08-26T04:38:00.000-07:00

Well, in the last two weeks I have managed to deplete the Polk County area of many varmits! I hate getting in the car now when it is cool in the a.m., still dark and it is like Russian Roulette out there with all these creatures jumping out in front of me so I can KILL them!

I have even slowed down to 45 or 50 mph while on Hwy 215 so as to give them a sporting chance!

I have hit numerous raccoons, possum's and armadillo's. Also a few birds, squirrels and something I am not really sure what it was, I caught a blurrrr and then whammo! Yesterday a beautiful little fawn jumped out in front of me, but did a 360 and got out of the way. BUT this morning I hit a big ole' turkey... He just stood there looking at me... No damage to my car, but when I got to work I could swear I smelt cranberry sauce! LOL

I drive a small blue car and that is why I named this blog "The Blue "Varmit" Marauder...

Walking for a Cure!

2008-08-19T05:17:00.000-07:00

My Grandmother, Lorene Bays with Heather and Brian

Yesterday I received a mailing for the annual "Alzheimer's Memory Walk" that takes place here in Springfield on September 27th. I am in the process of recruiting a team. I have 6 volunteers at this time! Which is great, I only had to ask once and they came running... Great friends and family in my life.

I am also taking donations for this cause and you can go to my webpage to donate or contact me personally. Here is the website:

http://memorywalkspringfield.kintera.org/faf/donorReg/donorPledge.asp?ievent=257347&lis=0&kntae257347=E956A7DA2B5B4BA7A4ACA95888CAE363

My maternal grandmother battled alzheimer's the last part of her life and it is a struggle to watch them deteriorate so quickly and the first time they don't recognize you is heart breaking. I can only imagine how they feel seeing a sea of strangers and never anyone that they know.

Let's try and battle this disease!!! I need your support!

Grandma's touch!

2008-08-17T07:52:00.000-07:00

Ivy crawled up on lap yesterday afternoon and I started rubbing/lightly tickling her back and Heather snapped these pictures. It brings back many memories of both Heather and Brian both laying across my lap for the same treatment. I still get talked into doing it when Brian visits or Heather ask! They will always be my babies! I can't really do it to Constance, she giggles before I even lay her down! She is the most tickleish little girl ever!

After pre-school (1st day)

2008-08-17T07:48:00.000-07:00

One wore out little girl!

1st day of Pre-School

2008-08-14T12:45:00.001-07:00

Water fun!

2008-08-13T14:31:00.000-07:00

Heather being Heather!
Ivy and Constance washing Grandma's car
Me in charge of rinsing!
Constance washing Mommy's car
The girls and I working hard!
Ivy smiling and all wet!

Today has been an eventful day. First we went to Springfield so I could go to my 2nd band fill at the doctor's office. Last time I went they found a kink in my tubing but were able to put in the fill with no problems. Well, today was a different story! They started the fill and it wouldn't go, so they did an x-ray, paged the surgeon who was in surgery, explained what was going on and he wants to see me next week and schedule a follow-up surgery to go in and fix the kink and probably take out some of the tubing as it is too long for my torso.

Then we did a few errands and came home. I got the lawn mower out and did some of the yard and then the girls came out and mom took over. While she was mowing the girls and I decided to play in the water and wash the cars! Can't say they got REALLY clean but they have the road dust rinsed off of them!

Introducing Logan Avery Powell-Sellers

2008-08-10T14:57:00.000-07:00

Logan Avery Powell-Sellers
Daddy Steven Powell and Logan
Me and Baby Logan
Mommy Katie and baby Logan
Mommy lookes happy to finally meet her new little man!

Logan was born August 9th at 3:26 p.m. He shares the same birthday as my little man, Brian!

He weighed 8 lbs. 8 ozs. and was 22 inches long. He is a cutie with lots of dark hair. I believe he will be spoiled as he gets older.

Brian's 22nd birthday!

2008-08-10T05:29:00.001-07:00

Here are a couple pages of Brian. The first one was taken when he was leaving for Germany back in 2005 and the other pages is one his wife Codie did of him opening his gifts Heather and I sent to him this year on his birthday, August 9th. My kids are growing up so fast!

Beating the heat!

2008-08-02T12:15:00.000-07:00

I was up mowing, burning trash and pulling weeds at 6:30 a.m. trying to beat the heat. I didn't get the entire yard mowed but I will get it done this week or at least by Wednesday my day off! House is clean and getting ready for my sister and niece to come over so we can all scrapbook tonight after Heather fixes tacos!

scrapblog.com

2008-07-29T12:49:00.000-07:00

My cousin, Jenny found this awesome site for scrapbooking online. Okay, I am truly addicted! It is fun to get in there and build your own pages from your pictures that are already on your computer! My new header is also a page I did.

Enjoy!

RUN FOR THE FALLEN

2008-07-26T12:27:00.001-07:00

THE "RUN FOR THE FALLEN" GROUP CAME THROUGH OUR AREA ON WEDNESDAY. THEY ARE RUNNING ONE MILE FOR EVERY FALLEN SOLDIER FROM THIS IRAQ WAR. THE SERVICEMEN/WOMEN IN OUR AREA ARE ALL THOSE WHO HAVE DIED IN AUGUST OF 2006. THEY ARE POSTING THESE FLAGS AND PERSONAL INFORMATION FOR EACH SOLDIER BASED ON THE DAYS THAT THEY DIED. YOU CAN GO TO THIS WEBSITE TO CHECK OUT THE ENTIRE STORY. www.runforthefallen.org HEATHER AND THE GIRLS AND I DROVE AROUND TAKING PICTURES OF THE ONES WE COULD GET TO.

They are coming home!

2008-07-25T14:13:00.000-07:00

My daughter and grandaughters have been in Blue Springs with her dad for a week now and I miss them so much. They are on their way home as we speak. I do have a clean and organized house but it sure is quiet and boring!

I am glad they are coming home!

Let's try this again!

2008-07-22T16:30:00.001-07:00

www.clingclean.com

Inventor in Ozark!

2008-07-22T11:05:00.001-07:00

I just found this website about a family living in Ozark who came up with a great idea for those unsightly wal-mart bags used in trash bins at home. It is a great idea and now the US Air Force is going to start using this product as well. Go check out the website!
www.cleancling.com

Bring your wastebasket out of the closet

You have put the finishing touches on your new or remodeled bathroom. You place your wastebasket, which matches the towels, counter accessories and, possibly, your bath/shower curtain. You look in the wastebasket and decide: Do I want to put a trash bag in this attractive container or not. You think about the appearance after you put in a typical grocery store type bag. The one with the handles which look like “ears” and usually have a hole in the bottom. Or the small trash bag that folds over the top and may hang down over the exterior of the wastebasket three or four inches. Your last option – no trash bag at all. You resort to the idea that you will have to wash your wastebasket out on a regular basis because the trash bag changes the look and feel of the room.

Now you can show off your wastebasket with the ClingClean bag.

2008-07-14T05:43:00.000-07:00

God Himself does not propose to
judge a man until he is dead.
So why should you?

Baby Shower

2008-07-12T15:46:00.001-07:00

Baby shower for Katie Sellers. She would have been my step-daughter if Steve and I had gotten married. She is a sweet girl and her baby "Logan Matthew" is due in 4 weeks!
Katie and Constance. Constance kept calling her "My Princess" because of the crown that say "Proud New Mommy" Katie was wearing
Heather and Ivy! Heather is trying to corral Ivy from running everywhere! LOL
Katie with the baby blanket I made for Logan.
Constance posing for the camera!

Today was Katie's baby shower in Nixa. Her mom and aunt Sierna threw it for her. She got lots of really cute stuff for the baby. I saw her room she has set up for the baby and she has it all organized and decorated. The shower was fun and I got to see alot of her family I haven't seen in 2 years and an added bonus I got to see her big brother Bryan as he was there to watch one of his cousins during the shower. I miss those two kids so much! The girls had a good time, but we barely left the parking lot of the church and Ivy was out! Constance fell asleep about 1/2 way through our ride home.

2008-07-10T10:07:00.000-07:00

By choosing your thoughts,

and by selecting which emotional currents you will release and which you will reinforce,

you determine the quality of your Light.

You determine the effects that you will have upon others,

and the nature of the experiences of your life

4th of July

2008-07-05T08:53:00.000-07:00

Constance took this shot of Heather and I lighting sparklers.
Ivy and Constance. Ivy never saw any of the fireworks, she was always in la la land at that time!
Constance wearing her 3-d glasses to watch fireworks!
My brother-in-law, Lullel having fun with the fireworks!
Great-Grandma Vote helping Constance with her sparkler!

We had a couple different 4th of July celebrations. We had a small on on the 3rd here at the house with Constance and watched Derrick and Kristen's fireworks from our house.

Then we went to my sister, Lisa's for dinner and fireworks on the 4th. Ivy and I left before the booming festivities because she needed a bath and bed! But Constance had a great time!

Happy 4th everyone!

Constance's day

2008-07-02T16:39:00.000-07:00

Constance before her surgery with me.
Mommy and Constance dressed and ready to go to the OR.
Constance being wheeled into surgery. What a way to travel!
Constance and grandma having a little talk after her surgery!
After the effects of the "Giggly Gas" wore off, she is all smiles now!

Constance had to have her tongue clipped today. She was severly tongue tied, it really wasn't that noticable until she tried saying her "L's". She did so good, never whimpered or cried once. She was a trooper. Her daddy would have been proud of her!

Life.......

2008-06-27T09:43:00.000-07:00

Well today I am 9 days out from surgery and life couldn't be better. I have decided to quit weighing myself every morning and not put so much emphasis on the numbers! I am getting into clothes that I haven't worn in over 3 years and that in itself is great!

I am going to join the YMCA in Bolivar over the weekend and start using one of the one's that is just 2 blocks from my work. I can't wait to get started and get this weight off. My physician's assistant said I would really see a big difference once I get my first fill on July 31, 2008. So I am ready for that day to get here!

As the weight starts coming off I will periodically post pics on this blog site and my other site at www.thelongroadtothenewme.blogspot.com So stay tuned!

Springfield Zoo

2008-06-23T06:44:00.001-07:00

Constance feeding the "Wolfie" at the zoo. We told her it was a goat, but she said it was a Wolfie. And she told it "Thank You" after it ate its food each and every time. That girl is a hoot!
Ivy in her stroller when we first got there!
Mr. Raccoon
Mr. Otter smiling at us!
The girls playing in the misting machine at the zoo! They loved it and didn't want to get out!

We went to the zoo in Springfield yesterday so I could get in some walking after my surgery. We had a good time. My sister, Gina and my niece Rachel went with Heather, the girls and I. It was a pretty hot day, but we enjoyed it.

Lap Band Surgery!

2008-06-17T13:15:00.000-07:00

I have a surgery time tomorrow of 9 a.m.! I am so excited. I have so much energy today, I guess it is nervous energy, even though I am not nervous about this in anyway.

So I will probably go home and clean like a crazy person tonight so the evening will go faster!

I will post my surgery story on here once I feel like sitting at a computer!

Hula Party!!!

2008-06-14T17:33:00.000-07:00

We had a "Hula Party" for Constance and Heather today for their birthdays today....
Our Pink Flamingo's!
The Birthday Girls!
Me and Constance!
Constance and her Sand Castle Cake.....

We had a "Hula Party" today for Constance's 3rd birthday and Heather's 23. We had a great time. The girls and their friends played in the pool and the adults sat around and talked and watched the kids have fun. It was a great day for a party!

Birthday Girls!

2008-06-13T19:13:00.000-07:00

Birthday Girls...

Heather and Constance have the same birthday, June 13! Heather was born in Frankfurt W. Germany in 1985 and Constance was born in Blue Springs, MO in 2005.... exactly 20 years apart!

My Verse for My NEW Life after Lapband!

2008-06-11T09:04:00.000-07:00

No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to us all.
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.

1 Corinthians 10:13

Night of Scrapbooking!

2008-06-08T19:47:00.000-07:00

This is a fun page. Constance got busted with her hands in the jelly jar!
Ivy's first time in "Time Out" and we caught it on film!
Grandma's little angels
Grandma's little angels part II
The many faces of Ivy. Thankgiving 2007
My 2nd cousin Mr. Brady.. he is a cutie
Constance's rap sheet from the Jelly Jar caper!

Heather and I scrapbooked tonight and here are the pages I did.

Summer time fun!

2008-06-08T15:23:00.000-07:00

My waterbaby, Constance. Great Aunt Gina got them some arm floaties and with them on Constance was able to keep her head up above the water by herself and swim all over the pool. She had a blast!
Ivy was our little daredevil today! She would stand on the edge and just jump in. Once we weren't completely ready for her and Rachel caught her under the water and brought her up fast. She was just fine with it and went right back up the ladder and did it again!
Constance swimming on her own!
The girls cousin, Rachel was helping Ivy to try and swim.

We went to my sister Gina's this afternoon and played in the water with the girls. They are adapting to the water like little ducks! I told Heather if she got them into professional swim classes it wouldn't take long for them to get the hang of it since they are not afraid of being in the water at all.

We were on the way home and Constance said she was hungry. This girl is NEVER hungry! She ate two whole hotdogs and buns and a few chips. She was starving!

We all had a good day, plan on cleaning up from supper and then once the girls are down we will be scrapbooking alittle.

Have a great week everyone!

Ivy Graduates to a Big Girl Bed!!!

2008-06-08T05:13:00.001-07:00

Before she went to sleep
She is out!

Glorious Morning!

2008-06-08T04:59:00.000-07:00

I woke up late this a.m. for me. But it was still 6 a.m. and I went outside and walked around and then layed in the hammock and listened to the birds, the wind, our neighbors peacock and enjoyed the time. It was quiet and very serene.

Heather took my "Before" shots yesterday and let's just say I will post them when I have lost enough weight you can tell the difference. I am NOT that brave yet!

I am on day 3 of my liquid diet and so far not too bad. I have been keeping myself extremely busy this weekend so I can't think about it. I have cleaned out my closet, took out all the fall/winter clothes I can still wear and am donating them to a girl at work. And then I went through a couple of my bins outside in the garage and pulled out some of the next size I will be in. This is very exciting, I really should only have to buy a couple pieces of clothing in each size as I go down because I have tons of stuff stored. Then I mowed the entire yard and today after church will try and get the landlord's tiller running so I can get part of the garden replanted. With the rains we have been having some of it just didn't come up, it just sat in water! Ugghhh

And on another note. Miss Ivy slept in her big girl bed last night. Heather got a couple pics of her before and during bedtime. While I was on the puter this a.m. I heard her jabbering in her room and then alittle later I heard her try and open the door and then knock on it. It was too cute. She came out of there all grins. So we had a successful night!

I hope everyone had a glorious morning and a Special Sunday.

Surgery Date!!!!

2008-06-05T15:24:00.000-07:00

My surgery is on June 18th! They are having me modify my liquid diet a little so I can do it this soon! So I start drinking my meals tomorrow a.m.... YEAH for me! NOT All I have to do is remember it is for a good cause, swallow and smile! Hope it goes that well in the real world and not the world inside my little head!

I am excited. Surgery will last about 1-1/2 hours, recovery 1 1/2 to 2 hours and then back to room for about an hour and I am gone... So that is pretty sweet.

I did my pre-admission test today to get it out of the way.. took my blood, BP, lots of questions and that is it! Piece of cake.. Oh I said CAKE..... this is going to prove my willpower! Please pray for me!

Today is the day!

2008-06-05T05:37:00.000-07:00

I go to the surgeon today to find out my surgery date for sure. I am so excited. I get to also give him alot of money today as well! LOL But it is so worth it! I will be scrapbooking this adventure, as Heather said there WILL be a camera on surgery day... so if they are goofy pics I am sorry. And I am not held responsible for anything I say under the influence of good drugs!

Summer Time Fun!

2008-06-01T14:47:00.000-07:00

Constance enjoying the first day of the summer they got to play in the water!
I know it is in here somewhere!
Should I spray my sister????????????
Come on in the water is fine!

The girls enjoying an afternoon with their new pool. They have enjoyed the time with their daddy! They are our water babies!

Special Olympics

2008-05-31T14:23:00.000-07:00

My friend, Malinda and I volunteered at the Special Olympics "State Games" on Friday, May 30th!
Some of the many Volunteers needed to help run this event every year.
One of the athletes "Tyson from Cameron, MO" getting a Gold Medal for standing long jump
Athletes getting their medals by one of the Fire Marshalls at the event.

Friday my friend, Malinda White and I volunteered at the Special Olympics in Springfield. WE had the best time and loved talking with the athletes that were there. We came back with lots of fun stories from the kids and lots of great memories! We both plan on doing it again next year and maybe take more friends with us!

Just Think.....

2008-05-28T06:27:00.000-07:00

Just think, you’re here not by chance, but by God’s choosing.
His hand formed you and made you the person you are.
He compares you to no one else— you are one of a kind.
You lack nothing that His grace can’t give you.
He has allowed you to be here at this time in history to fulfill His special purpose for this generation.
God loves you...

He chose you to be His own. I THESSALONIANS 1:4 NLT

Girls being blessed

2008-05-27T06:07:00.000-07:00

Pastor Jim blessing the girls. (Trying to get Ivy to go to him! LOL)
The Singell family

We had a baby blessing today for those new babies and young children who have not been blessed before. It worked out great because David was home to participate in the event. Everyone in the church body agree to help bring up these children in our church and take care of them as needed. The parents agree to raise them in a Godly environment.

WELCOME HOME!

2008-05-27T05:54:00.000-07:00

The Happy Couple, back together again...
BBQ Master
Ivy playing at the party!
Good food!
Welcome Home David
Me and My son-in-law!

We had a "Welcome Home Party" for David on Saturday at my house. We had a good crowd and lots of yummy food. We all sat around and just talked for hours. It was fun getting together. David leaves to go back to Iraq on June 3rd. He will be there until Feb. 09

AND THE WINNER IS.......

2008-05-22T10:58:00.000-07:00

DAVID COOK !!!!!!
AMERICAN IDOL SEASON 7!

HE, HEATHER AND HER BEST FRIEND AMY WENT TO THE SAME ELEMENTARY WITH DAVID. AMY RODE THE SAME BUS AS HE... HEARD SHE HAD A CRUSH ON HIM BACK THEN! LOL

Bless the Broken Road....

2008-05-21T07:44:00.000-07:00

On the way to work this morning I was listening to 88.3 the Wind, Christian Radio. And a song I had heard on the country stations started playing. It was by a female and it took on a whole NEW meaning to me.

Here are the lyrics and when you put my life up until now in this song it is like she sang it for me! SO I ordered the accompaniment CD and will try and work on it to sing in church one Sunday.

I set out on a narrow way many years ago
Hoping I would find true love along the broken road
But I got lost a time or two
Wiped my brow and kept pushing through
I couldn't see how every sign pointed straight to you

Every long lost dream led me to where you are
Others who broke my heart they were like Northern stars
Pointing me on my way into your loving arms
This much I know is true
That God blessed the broken road
That led me straight to you

I think about the years I spent just passing through
I'd like to have the time I lost and give it back to you
But you just smile and take my hand
You've been there you understand
It's all part of a grander plan that is coming true

Now I'm just rolling home
Into your loving arms
This much I know is true
That God blessed the broken road
That led me straight to you

That God blessed the broken road

That led me straight to you.

The Reunion!

2008-05-16T18:57:00.000-07:00

David and Heather back together!
Daddy greeting the girls....
Can you see how happy they all are!

Here are a couple pics I took at the airport of David's arrival. Everyone was smiling from ear to ear.... Happy Times.... He will leave in 18 days.. Should be around June 3rd.

WELCOME HOME DADDY!!!!

2008-05-16T06:46:00.000-07:00

The girls before they left to go and get daddy!
Ivy and her Daddy Bear!
Constance and her Daddy bear!

Well, David is home now! We picked him up at 3:30 p.m. yesterday at Springfield/Branson Airport. He and Heather we smiling from ear to ear the rest of the day... Constance went right to him at the airport, Ivy just kept looking at him like "I think I am suppose to know you". By the time they got home, Ivy was all over daddy and Constance was backed off a little I guess measuring things up! When I got home 2 hours later they were all just one big happy family, playing with the girls and the girls were in rare form!

As soon as Heather gets the pictures from the airport downloaded I will post a couple of them as well.

Special Olympics

2008-05-15T11:49:00.000-07:00

I have decided I should do something to give back to society and as I have volunteered before for the Special Olympics here in Springfield and in Kansas City area, That is what I am going to do.

I filled out my volunteer packet and am scheduled to work the Summer games which are May 28, 29 and 30th. I will be working on May 30th from 7 a.m. until noonish. I am excited to start giving back and love working with "Special" people!

Once I am finished with the Summer games I will post pictures! It will be a very great time as well as a blessing! Anyone want to join me! I can guarantee if you do it once, you will want to go back every year!

Here is the link to the Southwest MO site: www.somo.org

2008-05-14T07:36:00.001-07:00

"You are the God who performs miracles; you display your power among the peoples." ~Psalm 77:14

HERE WE GO........ WEE WEE

2008-05-13T07:38:00.000-07:00

Well I got my call from the surgeon's office this a.m. and I have my last appt. with him on June 5th, I have to pay for everything then, ugghhh BUT at least it is only 575.00 instead of 17,000.00 if I was self pay! Then I go to pre-admission get that started, then start my 2 week liquid diet and looks like I will have surgery on either June 20th or June 27th, whichever I can get. I asked for a Friday surgery so I can recoop over the weekend and go back to work on Monday.... It will be so nice to get this part out of the way and I can start working on the new me.

I will have Heather take a before shot of me (which will be awful, but I have to bite the bullet and do it!) and start a scrapbook of the whole entire process. Heather warned me there will be a camera used on my surgery date... so don't laugh when you see those photos! LOL

Can anyone tell I am so excited?!?!?!?!?!?

I am approved!

2008-05-12T14:10:00.000-07:00

I just found out today that I am approved through my insurance for the lapband surgery! Now I get to make my final appt. with the surgeon and get my surgery date, do my pre-op tests and then start the liquid diet which last 2 weeks prior to the surgery! I am soooooooooo excited. I will keep posting about the progress I am making as each step is met!

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY......

2008-05-11T11:24:00.000-07:00

I met this wonderful creature when I was 21 years old.
I met my mom when she was 17 years old.
I met this beautiful little girl when I was 43 years old!
And I met this little Diva when I was 41 years old!
Me and my girls!!!!

Happy Mother's day to all.... I got to spend the day with my daughter and two special little girls. We went after church to see my mom, and wish her Happy Mother's Day as well.

Services at church today we very good, with the Virtues of a Righteous Woman and all of the mother's being honored.

Here are a few pictures from today! I sure miss my baby boy though and his wife Codie.... Hopefully, next year we can spend the day together or a day close to Mother's Day....

Reflections...

2008-05-09T11:06:00.000-07:00

I was doing dishes yesterday and thinking about my life up to this point. Yeah, I have had alot of fun, laugh out loud times in my life and then some NOT SO FUN times. But I believe all of the times in my life are what have made me who I am today. Yes, we all have quirks or personality glitches with in us, but for the most part I feel like I am the best I can be at this point in my life. I know I have areas of improvement (don't we all!) but I guess what I am trying to say, is I am OK with who I am right now!

I am really excited to see what my future holds in the next couple years, five years or even 25 years from now (I will be old as dirt, but will still be trying to have fun and making others laugh!).

The countdown....

2008-05-07T09:50:00.000-07:00

Heather is so excited that David is coming home soon for a short visit. This weekend will be crazy getting the house all organized and cleaned and then the yard work also..... I think keeping her busy will keep her mind busy so she doesn't have time to obsess about it all!

I am excited about seeing him too and seeing him interacting with the girls once they get reacquainted! Constance will have no issues, but Ivy will not remember him and she is shy at first with people she doesn't know. I know once he throws her in the air she will be hooked! She loves to fly and Mom and Grandma can use a break from that! LOL

I am sure I will have pictures to post once we pick him up from the airport. I am going with them to be the photographer and then I will come back to work so they can have some family time!

That is all at this moment... just working and coming home and working more....

Not much!!!

2008-05-02T10:26:00.000-07:00

Well not much going on in my life right now. My paperwork was submitted to the insurance company the beginning of this week for my lapband procedure, so I am waiting to hear back from that to see if they are going to approve the procedure.

Other than that not much. Waiting for garden area to dry up enough to work it and get some stuff planted. So hopefully, Sunday after church I will be in the garden playing and riding around on the lawnmower later in the afternoon... Oh the life of a country girl!

I will be moving into Springfield area the first part of next year, once Heather and the girls head back to Ft. Hood, TX when David returns from Iraq. The gas prices and the miles I put on my car daily are not good! So Springfield here I come..... Living in the city is alot different and it will take come getting use to again, but I have done it before so no biggy...

Well that is all I have to blog about this week. Hopefully in a week or so I will be blogging about setting a surgery date!

Spring has Sprung.... And I can't keep up with the grass!

2008-04-25T17:31:00.000-07:00

I love this time of the year when everything is blooming and new. Heather went out and took pictures of all the trees and bushes in the yard. They are just beautiful!

Now the grass is another story. I have mowed the entire yard 3 times so far this year.... It takes approx. 3-4 hours to mow it all with the rider. Fun times!

MEET ME IN THE STAIRWELL!

2008-04-10T17:07:00.000-07:00

You say you will never forget where you were when you heard the news On September 11, 2001. Neither will I.

I was on the 110th floor in a smoke filled room with a man who called his wife to say 'Good-Bye.'

I held his fingers steady as he dialed. I gave him the peace to say, 'Honey, I am not going to make it, but it is OK..I am ready to go.'

I was with his wife when he called as she fed breakfast to their children. I held her up as she tried to understand his words and as she realized he wasn't coming home that night.

I was in the stairwell of the 23rd floor when a woman cried out to Me for help. 'I have been knocking on the door of your heart for 50 years!' I said. 'Of course I will show you the way home - only believe in Me now.'

I was at the base of the building with the Priest ministering to the injured and devastated souls. I took him home to tend to his Flock in Heaven. He heard my voice and answered.

I was on all four of those planes, in every seat, with every prayer. I was with the crew as they were overtaken. I was in the very hearts of the believers there, comforting and assuring them that their faith has saved them.

I was in Texas, Virginia, California, Michigan, Afghanistan. I was standing next to you when you heard the terrible news. Did you sense Me?

I want you to know that I saw every face. I knew every name - though not all know Me.

Some met Me for the first time on the 86th floor.

Some sought Me with their last breath.

Some couldn't hear Me calling to them through the smoke and flames; 'Come to Me... this way... take my hand.'

Some chose, for the final time, to ignore Me. But, I was there.

I did not place you in the Tower that day.

You may not know why, but I do.

However, if you were there in that explosive moment in time, would you have reached forMe?

Sept. 11, 2001, was not the end of the journey for you.

But someday your journey will end. And I will be there for you as well.

Seek Me now while I may be found.

Then, at any moment, you know you are 'ready to go.' I will be in the stairwell of your final moments.

GOD

Slide Show from Home Schooled kids!

2008-04-09T12:46:00.000-07:00

This is awesome!

http://www.footstepsofmessiah.com/Movie1.swf

A Mid Summer's Night Dream....

2008-04-08T13:11:00.000-07:00

Lacy at "Puck, the Wood Fairy" in school play!
Lacy's final bow!
Lacy and I after the play...

My niece, Lacy was "PUCK" in A Mid Summer's Night Dream for her high school drama club. She did a terrific job, but the roll was made for her anyway. She did some creative stuff with it!

Here are a few pics from that night.

Vote Family Crop!

2008-04-05T17:33:00.000-07:00

Three first cousins! Ronda, Gina and Jenny
Me and Heather
Jenny doing some serious page designs!
I have to have just the right color!
I love scrapbooking....

Today we had a VOTE Family crop! It was fun getting together again. We use to do it quite a bit a few years ago, but everyone's lives are just so busy.

Hopefully, we can get together more often and get a few more of the VOTE women to join us!

Spring is sprung!

2008-04-04T09:01:00.000-07:00

I am so glad it is getting nice outside. Minus some of the rain right now and it would be perfect. I get the fever to be outside at this time. I mowed parts of my yard this week. I know, some people (Like my landlord) said it was too early. Mainly now he is forced to get his mowed... LOL

We have Easter Lilly's coming up as well and some surprise Lillie's. I can't wait until they show their surprise!

If the rain doesn't show up today like they have predicted, I may try and get the garden spot tilled on Saturday evening/Sunday evening. It was a lagoon earlier in the week!

More progress made!

2008-03-27T10:49:00.000-07:00

I attended my diet consult and my exercise consult yesterday for the Lap band surgery. The dietary consult was very informative. It basically went over what was expected of me 2 weeks before surgery and then after surgery. How food has to be prepared, what vitamins to take, etc.... but it was mainly common sense stuff. The exercise consult was good also, even though the exercise guru was about a size 2, cute and blond... I let all that slide (this time)! Anyway, they hooked me up to a mobile EKG machine (which flat lined right off the bat!) I looked at her and said, okay is it a battery issue or am I still here?!?!?!?! It was a battery issue thank goodness. I had to walk with Blondie around the track for 6 mins. while they monitored my heart rate, and heart pattern. I passed!

So now I have to attend a life style seminar the end of April and once that is completed they should go ahead and submit it to the insurance the first of May. So I am hoping it all goes well.

AND I have officially lost 30 lbs since the end of October of last year. For my insurance to approve I had to have a 6 month physician led diet that was monitored and have all the records from that. So the end of October my doctor put me on Phentermine and it really makes me less hungry and makes me want to move all the time. (Basically speed!) So anyway, I have one more goal to meet and then we should find out yes or no! Keep your prayers going for me and your fingers crossed!

Spring Time Fun!

2008-03-27T08:47:00.001-07:00

Ivy inspecting the golf cart!
Constance working on her shot!
Mommy and Constance having fun!
Grandma Ronda and Ivy posing for a photo op!

Heather bought the girls a "Golf Set" to play with outside yesterday. They had a blast. So we played in the yard for a while letting them hit the ball back and forth. Here are a few pics of them having fun! (And Mommy and Grandma too!)

Easter Fun!

2008-03-23T16:03:00.001-07:00

My daughter Heather and grandaughter Constance Easter Morning
Heather and youngest grandaughter, IvyIvy on a determined mission hunting for Easter eggs.
Constance found another one!

We had a house full today with all my family and a few friends here

for a nice Easter lunch and fun easter egg hunt afterward.

The girls had a blast and loved all the attention!

It was a good day!

2008-03-20T19:23:00.000-07:00

The Jelly Bean Prayer

Red is for the blood He gave,

Green is for the grass He made,

Yellow is for the sun so bright,

Orange is for the edge of night.

Black is for the sins that were made

White is for the grace He gave,

Purple is for the hour of sorrow,

Pink is for the new tomorrow.

Give a bag of jelly beans,

Colorful and sweet,

Tell them it's a Prayer...It's a Promise...It's an Easter Treat !

Casuality In Iraq.

2008-03-20T06:27:00.000-07:00

One of the men in David's group in Iraq was killed a day or two ago. He was in a humvee and was the gunner on top and the vehicle flipped, crushing him. David was with him and he tried to revive him, but thinks he died instantly. David has never attended a funeral for someone close to him, having not really lost any family members as of yet. Please keep him in your prayers and the rest of the guys as well.

Difficult Times

2008-03-11T06:54:00.000-07:00

I came across something the other day that basically says it all (for me anyway).

If GOD brings you to it ----- He will bring you through it!

We are going through a bible study right now and it is about David's life from the time he was a shephard boy and was anointed by Samuel and all the battles, conspiracies with Saul and all that. He wondered at times I am sure why GOD was putting him through this. It was many years before he did become King and I know I would have been discouraged and threw my hands in the air and gave up, but David pursued and marched forward, asking God's advice in everything he did.

That is the key, we need to ask him in everything we do. Not just the big problems that come along but all of it!

Another step!

2008-03-06T10:28:00.000-08:00

Well I was called today to make my appointments for my dietary consult with a nutritionist and my exercise consult with a young skinny exercise guru! They are both on March 26th so wish me luck..... I know that little exercise guru better take it easy on me... LOL

Surgeon appt.

2008-03-04T13:01:00.000-08:00

I met with the surgeon, Christopher Edwards. He is a nice guy and then I went to meet with his PA, Mary Trampler. She is awesome and such a motivator. I have alot of hoops to jump through to get this okay'd by the insurance but I told her I didn't drive through 6 inches of snow this a.m. in the dark to let this slip through my hands!

Pshyc Evaluation Complete!

2008-02-29T09:00:00.001-08:00

I had my pshyc evaluation today and I passed with flying colors! She said she was inspired by what all I have overcome in my past and how I am "In the process of reinventing myself". She stated that she would like to follow my journey through the lap band process and maybe use me as a case study. I think that is just too awesome. So I passed this part of the exam, Tuesday I meet with the surgeon himself and go over everything then on to nutritionist, exercise gurus and on and on....

The New ME!

2008-02-28T12:18:00.001-08:00

I am going to start going through the process to see if I qualify for a lap band surgery. I sent in my registration paperwork to the surgery center in Springfield and I heard back today that my process looks good. So now I have to start their process of meeting with different doctors, therapist, nutritionist... they have you go through this process to make sure you are a good candidate and that you completely understand the process and what is expected of you in this life makeover.

So I meet one doctor tomorrow and then another on Tuesday of next week. I am really excited about this and I hope my insurance will work with me!

Once I learn if I am going to be accepted I will take a before photo and post it and then post update photos all along the way!

I really hope this happens for me! I am so tired of not feeling well and I know it is mostly because of my weight ;-)

LIfe Style Makeover!

2008-02-25T09:13:00.000-08:00

I had signed up/entered the Life Style makeover with our local radio station back in January. Well I was picked as one of the top 25 contestants (out of over 200+) and had to go through the entire process of interviewing and attending the Women's show over the last weekend. My mom, Heather and the girls went as my cheering section. I didn't believe I would win as I didn't have the time to devote to the year long process as they would have liked. Oh well! I didn't win but as they say at the Oscars, "It was just an honor to be nomintated!"

The Women's show was fun, they had the Liverpool Legends from Branson there for entertainment and they were really good. They sound so much like the Beatles. They put on a good show.

My Little Valentines!

2008-02-14T05:48:00.001-08:00

Ivy

The girls coloring their Valentine's cards

Constance

Here are My Little Valentines! They are the light of my life!

What WE Have Learned?!?!?!?!?!?!?

2008-02-04T05:54:00.000-08:00

Maya Angelou said this: "I've learned that no matter what happens, or how bad it seems today, life does go on, and it will be better tomorrow."
"I've learned that you can tell a lot about a person by the way he/she handles these three things: a rainy day, lost luggage, and tangled Christmas tree lights."
"I 've learned that regardless of your relationship with your parents, you'll miss them when they're gone from your life."
"I've learned that making a "living" is not the same thing as "making a life."
"I've learned that life sometimes gives you a second chance."
"I've learned that you shouldn't go through life with a catcher's mitt on both hands; you need to be able to throw some things back."
"I've learned that whenever I decide something with an open heart, I usually make the right decision."
"I've learned that even when I have pains, I don't have to be one."
"I've learned that every day you should reach out and touch someone. People love a warm hug, or just a friendly pat on the back."
"I've learned that I still have a lot to learn."
"I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel."

Will it or Won't it??????????????

2008-01-31T11:32:00.000-08:00

Just sitting here watching the snow start up again here in Springfield. Wondering if we are going to get our Winter Wonderland today? I love the snow, especially if I can be home enjoying it!

I want to get some good snow pictures this time because our snow storms aren't like they were when I was growing up. We use to get a good snowfall atleast once a month. Now it seems that this "global warming is messing with us!"

Hump Day!

2008-01-30T05:37:00.000-08:00

Well it is Wednesday and I have nothing to report! It is cold outside and expecting snowy day tomorrow. I wish I could be home to enjoy it with a nice cup of hot chocolate, warm fire in the stove, and a good book. But oh well!!!!

45th Anniversary

2008-01-24T10:15:00.001-08:00

John and Bonnie Vote
Gina (sister), Dad, Mother, ME, and Lisa (sister)

(My brother John is missing)
Kristen, Rachel, Grandpa, Heather, Grandma, Lacy, Derrick and Logan

Grandkids

(3 are missing/Brian in Germany, McKenna in New York and Angel in New Mexico)

Great-granddaughter's Constance and Ivy Singell

My parents 45th anniversary is actually tomorrow, but Heather and I hosted an anniversary party for them this last Sunday afternoon. It was suppose to be a surprise but they figured it out beforehand. Oh well, we had a great turnout and had alot of fun. Here are a few pics of the party.

45th Anniversary

2008-01-24T10:15:00.000-08:00

Not much happening

2008-01-24T10:11:00.000-08:00

Not alot happening in my life right now. Just work, home, sleep and then start all over again the next day.

I haven't heard anything back on the Highway Patrol testing, but was told not to expect anything until first of February.

Started a new Bible study with a great group of ladies from church. It is a Beth Moore study which we all love. We did a different one this last fall and it just wasn't what we needed. It was more for a young woman in Christ.

I have a few new pics to post of the girls...... LOL

MO Highway Patrol

2008-01-16T07:01:00.000-08:00

I went to Jefferson City to test for the communications division of the Missouri Highway Patrol. The position is with Troop D that is here in Springfield, MO. I did well on the testing process yesterday and now have to wait to hear if I am going to be called in for an actual interview.

I have always wanted to work with the 911 operators/Highway patrol. I have a good medical background and also first responder experience and the thought of helping someone when they are in need of help really appeals to me.

My retirement with the state and all my benefits will just carry over to their organization so that is a great plus, and the pay increase is really good. Makes it worth the move. Only part I don't care for is I will have to do 4 weeks of intense training in Jefferson City, BUT I get to stay at the Police Academy with all the recruits... LOL ;-))))

So wish me luck!

Moving Day....

2008-01-10T10:41:00.000-08:00

Well, we are finally moved. It was not at bad as I anticipated. I rented a U-haul and basically loaded it by myself. A friend from work came over with her son and we loaded a couple really heavy pieces and then took a truck load of wood over to the new place. YES, we have a wood stove and I love the smell of wood burning but not the mess it makes!

The next morning I had my parents, my nephew and his girlfriend come and help us unload the truck and then go for one last (smaller) load. Then I took the week off to get the old place cleaned, and then new place organized. I can say we are getting very close to not seeing anymore cardboard boxes! Yeah.....

This place is probably the same size as the trailer, maybe alittle bigger but the closet space is smaller as are the bedrooms. But I absolutely love the big kitchen. It is awesome!

So this coming weekend, will be a weekend to try and finalize all the boxes and get everything in its place.... Heather did you hear that! ;-)))))

Check out my Slide Show!

2008-01-08T10:59:00.001-08:00

Christmas!

2007-12-25T06:52:00.000-08:00

Well it is offically here, Christmas day! The girls were totally spoiled by Santa and a few relatives! ;-) We took lots of pics this a.m. but no digital cameras so I am posting a few we had taken with Santa on Sunday and some at Great Aunt Gina's house with all her decorations on Sunday afternoon....

Pretty Princesses!

2007-12-16T06:23:00.000-08:00

Yesterday was Little Ivy's 1st birthday party. We had a princess party theme and 3 beautiful princesses showed up. We had Princess Jasmine, Island Princess Barbie and Belle honor us with their presence. It was a great time.

Christmas Parade....

2007-12-14T06:09:00.000-08:00

here are a few pics from the Bolivar Christmas Parade. It was the first parade the girls have ever been to and they had a blast, even though it was cold and drizzly!

Glimpses of our life!

2007-12-14T06:03:00.000-08:00

I thought I would let everyone see a snapshot into our lives in the last couple months since Heather and the girls have been living with me. The girls have changed so much in those 60 days and we are having so much fun! They just make me laugh out load and that is an awesome thing!

Here are a few glimpses into our life!

Spirit of LIfe

2007-12-12T07:10:00.000-08:00

I’m thankful for the wind, today.

I love how it blows life into everything – especially me!

I love how the wind moves the clouds, and the leaves on the trees, and how the birds ride on it.

Invisible, yet there, giving life and moving life.

Just like God.