Memories

Ok, so I will probably be yelled at for writing about this, but this has been on my mind for a while, so I just have to. Sorry girls!

Throughout elementary, middle and high school, I met some of the greatest people who became my closest friends. I was (and still am) very lucky to have been able to combine such different personalities together as a group. Each of us were so different, in so many ways, but somehow were all able to get along (with a few bumps here and there). Even when my best friend, who didn’t go to school with the rest of us, ended up at our high school, my friends accepted her into our group – and she accepted them.

Eighteen years ago, I was celebrating my “sweet sixteen” birthday with a sleep over with my bestest of friends. Us girls had commandeered the basement as sleepover central, so the boys were not allowed. It started out as most teenage birthday parties do – pizza, talking about boys, etc. After cake, my mom went upstairs and gifts started to be opened. I don’t remember exactly what I got from everyone – but I do remember what happened after the gifts…

I realized then that I had the greatest friends. They cared about me and about each other. That night, I realized that we were getting older and everything hit me. With my friends talking and laughing about some gift or another, I sat on the couch and started to cry. Obviously, my friends, being the wonderful people that they are, stopped, concerned. That started an extremely long night…

I expressed to these girls that I had a fear. A fear of graduating high school and completely losing touch with each and every one of them. I feared that we would grow apart, move on with life, and never talk to one another again. Together, we all spent the night crying, talking, crying, laughing, crying, hugging, promising, etc. Each of us expressed concerns/fears about the future, about what was to be. Before we knew it, it was almost 3 or 4 in the morning, and we were still up. We looked around and realized that we had gone through a crap load of toilet paper blowing our noses and wiping our eyes (we didn’t have Kleenex at our house that night).

We dubbed ourselves the “Toilet Paper Crew”, or something like that. I think of that night often with regrets that I didn’t hold up my end of the bargain. We did all graduate, went our separate ways, and most of us even lost touch with each other (which we promised would never happen). However, in October 2008, I decided to take the jump and enter into the world of Facebook. There, I was able to find almost all of my friends and get back in contact with each one of them. Even though futures have turned out differently than ever expected for some, others have experienced their dreams coming true and living life to the fullest.

This year, as I celebrate yet another birthday, I look back on that night no longer with regrets, but with pride at all of my friends – and what friends they are. I hope to someday have coffee or something with all of these women and talk about old times (I’ll bring the TP!) as well as new. After all, these girls will always hold a special place in my heart. I love you all, and miss you too! Hope to see you soon!

Girls Just Wanna Have Fun

Being the only girl growing up, I always wished for a sister (albeit a twin sister until I realized that this was obviously not possible). There have been many women in my life that have made me realize that even though I didn’t have a sister, I’m extremely lucky to have these women in my life. The following 4 women are the closest to me, and have been on my mind a lot lately.

First and foremost is my mother. Obviously, as the only girl, my mom and I had to hold our own in the family. Although there is a lot that my mom has been through so far, I admire her for her strength and for never giving up. She has a huge heart and just keeps giving and giving. Even though we don’t live near each other, we are still able to get together for mother/daughter days on occasion. She may not realize how much she means to me, but I’m lucky to have a friend like her – even if she is my mom – in my life. I’m proud of who she is, how she is compassionate and argumentative at the same time, and how she never gives up no matter what life has thrown at her. She forgives me for all my faults, and loves me for who I am.

Next is the woman that I grew up with as my “sister” and who is and will always be, without question, my best friend, Barb. Meeting when we were 3-4 years of age, she became the sister that I always wanted – just from different parents. She is an incredible woman who I’ve seen grow into a beautiful, loving mother herself. Our dreams of living near each other, marrying best friends and raising our children together has somehow come true (for the most part) and I couldn’t be happier. I’m proud of her accomplishments, even though I don’t say it often. She is always there for me, no matter what is going on in her life at that point. She’s taught me so much, not only about myself but also on how to give praise for what God has given us. I’m proud of her and thank her for loving me, no matter what. She’s my “sister”, teacher, and BFF, and I’m very fortunate to have her in my life.

Having two brothers, I have been able to gain “sisters” through their marriages and families. My sister-in-law Mary is such a strong individual. While starting out with an extremely rocky, and even sometimes distrustful relationship, I’m glad to have her in my life. I watch her with her son and am very proud of the mother that she is. She listens, and hears, when I need someone to talk to. She’s taught me to be strong, encouraging me in every way. Everything she does, she does with love. Her life experiences have taught her a lot, and have made her such a strong, independent woman. I know that I don’t tell her enough how much she means to me. I’m happy to know her as the person she truly is, and thrilled that she loves my older brother as much as she does. I’m proud of her, of her accomplishments, of who she is, and how she never compromises on that.

My other sister-in-law, Carrie, is a warm-hearted individual, the kind who would never hurt a fly. While she has moved to North Carolina, I always know that she is just a phone call away. She is fun to be around, seeming to always be smiling. She’s had some rough times, but has come through those times as a much stronger woman. She’s taught me to be compassionate and accepting towards myself and others. I’ve watched her grow as an individual as well as grow with my brother as a part of a beautiful couple. Someday, she will be an wonderful mother, even if she can't see that as easily. The love she shares with my twin brother is incredible, and I couldn’t be happier to have her as my sister-in-law.

While there are many other women that have come into my life, and helped to mold me into who I am today, this note would end up longer than I could imagine. Women today have so much on their plates, and being able to reach out to others and talk through things with them is something I’ve found to be vital in my life path. I’m lucky to have each one of these women in my life. I love all of you and am truly blessed to have you all in my life. I don’t say it often, and don’t call on a regular basis, but each of you holds a special place in my heart. I’m proud of all of you and all your accomplishments.

Boys Will Be Boys

Growing up as the only girl in a family of three kids, I quickly learned that my brothers were not only there for me, but they ultimately taught me lessons that helped in picking the mate that I would have for the rest of my life. While I'm a girly-girl, I can certainly "hang" pretty well with the "boys". In fact, I get along much better with guys than I do with girls - and I'm sure that my childhood had a lot to play into that.

Lately, I've been thinking about the men in my life that mean the most to me, and I just wanted to post a quick note about how proud I am of each and every one of them.

First, my husband. While I've known him the least amount of time as any of the others I will mention here, he is an incredible guy, who, for some reason, never gives up on me - even when I give up on myself (which seems to be often lately). He is my rock. I look back at where I was 14 years ago and realize that he has taught me so much. He's encouraged me to be independent. I know how to change spark plugs, tires, belts and other miscellaneous car parts. I can build a computer basically from scratch. I can finish drywall, cut the grass, etc. I've acquired a taste for Chinese food, and other edibles I wouldn't even try before I met him. In the past few years, I've watched him grow spiritually, which has helped us grow closer together both emotionally and spiritually. I'm proud of who he is, all that he has, and for never compromising to those around him.

Next is my father. Obviously the adult male figure in my life as a child, he has taught me so much. As I get older, I find more and more in common with him than I ever thought possible. He is always there to listen or provide support. He admits his weaknesses and displays his strengths. With some not-so-good memories, I am grateful today to have my father in my life. He may not be physically close, and I may not see him often, but I always know he is a phone call away. I admire him, am proud of the man he is, and happy to call him my dad.

My older brother is next. With a 3-1/2 year age difference, I can say that we were never really that close as kids. He didn't always want his baby sister hanging out with him. But, when he left home and joined the Navy, I was so proud. While things got a little rough between the two of us many years ago, I can honestly say that I am so happy that some things can be forgiven (but never forgotten). I look at him today and admire the strength he has. I'm proud of the man he is, the father he is, and overall the person that he is. I hope to someday be able to have as great a family as he does - with the openness and sharing that they all have together. His son, my nephew, is growing to be the same kind of guy that he is - and that right there make me proud. Things are changing is his life right now, and I can't be more proud of him for not giving up on his dreams.

My baby brother, if I can say that, is last, but definitely not least. I call him my baby brother, but in fact, as my twin, he is more my second half. Growing up, we were close - we had to be. However, as with any brother - he didn't always want his sister hanging out. Yet, in high school, that changed. His friends were my friends, and vice versa. To this day, I appreciate the fact that I was welcomed by him (and his friends). Pursuing his own dreams and moving out of state, I see now how much he has grown in the past two years. He is happy; happier than he ever was living closer. He's grown spiritually, and guides me with what he has learned. He is continuously learning and teaching. Someday, he is going to make a wonderful father. I'm proud to be not only his twin, but his sister and friend. I'm proud of the man that he has become and proud that he has never ever given up on his dreams.

For all of you, I'm blessed to know each one of you. Together, you have formed me into a different, independent person than I ever thought was possible. I love you all very much and am proud of each of your accomplishments, families, dreams and pursuits.

Deep breaths

It's funny sometimes how certain events will perpetrate some memories you hoped would remain hidden forever. But, sometimes those memories still surface and you just can't help but play through them in your head again - like a video playing over and over again.

A lot has happened in the past few weeks that have brought to surface many memories and fears. The fears - much like anyone I would assume to have - are simply just things that get you thinking when others around you are experiencing it. Things like your own mortality. I don't think of myself as old by any means, but...wow honestly, I can't even put it down into words. Deep breaths.

The memories have come kind of sporadically. It's weird. We were driving somewhere and I saw a dog. Got me thinking about our dog, Lexy. Wow. Crazy stuff. Hadn't thought about her for quite a while - and since then, she hasn't left my mind. Thinking of her leads me to think of Blue, then of Brutus, both cats who left our little family way, way too early. But, it brings about memories of different times. Times that seemed simpler. Times that had a lot more laughter than now it seems. At the same time, however, it resurfaced those feelings. The feelings of abandonment. Had we done the right thing, at the right time? Whoa. Deep breaths.

These were just our animals. What about those people in my life that are not here any longer? The memories of them hurt also. What about those who are still here? Do they know that we love them? Have I shown them how much they mean to me? What if they are gone tomorrow - will I be able to handle it? Answering that right now, I would have to say NO. So, what can I do? Deep breaths.

I just hope that things are better now. Lexy, Blue, Brutus, Caly. I hope they are all running with all those friends and family that have gone too early and are playing without pain or anguish. Those of us here that still have to accept those that are gone, I know we will get through it - but it won't be easy. Deep breaths.

The tears are selfish - it is better this way. God has His plan.

Impromptu

I love spontaneous trips - albeit short ones! Ben had a pretty busy and rough week at work and there was a stretch of about 3 days that I barely saw him. We didn't get much time to talk either because he was so busy. Therefore, when the opportunity presented itself - I had to jump at the chance.

We left Friday night to go spend the day on Saturday at Houghton Lake. The weather was going to be (and did turn out to be) beautiful, and we always have so much fun up there. My dad's friend has a cottage on one of the channels off the lake, so we went up to get some much needed R&R. My family (brothers & sisters-in-law) and us usually go up about 1 time per year.

We were only able to stay until Saturday evening because we had to be back in time for church obligations on Sunday, but this time was so much different for many different reasons - and we had an absolute blast! We got to meet some new friends, hang out at the beach all day, and even ride on a jetski a little bit. The sun was shining, with just enough clouds to give your eyes a reprieve for a bit, with temperatures in the upper 70s. I can't wait to go back again in a month with the rest of my family (almost the rest anyway)! It is so relaxing!

Jeepers Creepers

This past weekend, Ben and I got to enjoy ourselves and accomplish a dream of Ben's for many, many years, while at the same time reignite a hobby of mine from my childhood. We went camping at Silver Lake Sand Dunes on the west side of Michigan. And, at the same time, we got to meet with more members of the 4x4 club that Ben has become a member of.

The day we arrived, we met up with some of the club, and actually were able to take our Jeep - yep, our own vehicle - out on the Sand Dunes. One of the guys took us around the dunes, showing us some of the terrain and testing out the capabilities of the Jeep.

Entrance to the Dunes (aka "Gateway to Heaven")

Ben did a great job not freaking me out too much - and really only getting stuck once!

Ben waiting to get "unstuck" from the sand

Once the rain started to roll in, we went back to the campground for the night and hung around with some of the club members, chatting and getting to know each other. The storms were fierce that night, but we made it through and got up the next morning to beautiful clear blue skies! What a great day to be on the dunes!

Playing on the dunes

Helping out a fellow "Jeeper" out of the water

Club members and guests

Club Logo (4Given 4x4)

Then, at the end of the day, we got to go back up to the dunes to watch an absolutely beautiful sunset over Lake Michigan.


Overall, we had a great time and were exhausted at the end of the weekend. The best part, for me, was seeing the smile on my hubby's face every time I turned around. I'm so glad that you got a chance to do this honey! I love you, and can't wait to go back again!

Thoughts on the weekend:

• Wow, how I wish all weekends could be three days!
• Ever wonder why we all look forward to weekends, but then are so busy that Monday (or in this case Tuesday) is just hell?
• Weddings are beautiful, and makes one think back on all the good and bad of his/her own marriage/relationship.
• Sunny weather puts pretty much everyone in a good mood.
• God works in mysterious ways.
  
• Why is it that fresh air makes one so tired?
• Movies, parades and putt-putt all in one day - what a great date!
• Seeing kids smile at parades puts a smile on my face!
• Whether old friends or new friends, they are all special people!
  
• Why are kids scared of clowns?
• Las Vegas is calling my name...
  
• Family time is important - and they are fun to be around.
  
• Mad Gab is a silly game that is a riot to play!
• The tent is going to work beautifully!
• The Praise Team is so much fun to be a part of!
  
• The Red Wings played a hell of a game on Sunday! Game 5 on Wednesday!
  
• Love can withstand everything, and makes one glow from the outside.
• Happy babies are all around...must be catching on!
• Hope everyone had a great weekend...and remember,
  
• Only 3 more days til the next weekend!

Long needed update...

What a shame. I started this blog just about a year ago and haven't really kept up with it. I feel like I've let some people down. But, regardless, I can say that I am back - at least for today - with some long awaited updates.

First and foremost - the weather is finally getting beautiful! The sun is shining and for the most part moods are reflecting that.

Second - my headaches appear to have returned in full force. There are days, it seems, that I cannot get through the entire day without either a nap or just outright going to bed at 7:30pm. I've started to realize how much these headaches impact my social life, and that of my husband. He is awesome to be so understanding - but my embarrassment hit a new low this past weekend. Maybe it is time to pressure the doc some more.

Third - my hubby has fulfilled a dream of his in more ways than one, which makes my heart happy and proud. The lease on one of our vehicles is coming to an end, and we had a choice to make. We loved the truck and planned to buy it out right, but in this unstable economy, that wasn't going to be too much of an option. Alas, his decision was made - he would buy a Jeep. And that is exactly what we did.

Now, I can honestly say I wasn't thrilled about the idea, and parts of it still makes me seriously wonder what goes through men's minds sometimes. But, we have had the Jeep for a week, and I can say that I thoroughly enjoy it. I don't get the mud thing - but someday I expect to. Anyway, we have met a great group of people - all Jeep owners with God and 4 wheelin' in mind - and plan to spend a lot of time with the Jeep.

All of this has also brought back one of my passions - CAMPING! We haven't camped in about 8 years because we were over the tent thing, but I have been getting the itch seriously lately. Well, tonight, we made our first reservations for the year at a campground. Yes, it is a Jeep trip - the one Ben has wanted to go on for years - and it is with this great group of people that he is getting to know. The weekend sounds like it will be fun.

Everything that has happened over the past 2-3 months has been somehow a sign. God intervenes in amazing ways sometimes, but the direction He has me pointing right now is a good one (aside from the headaches). Anyway, thanks for being loyal and checking in once in a while. More stories will probably come with all the adventures we will be partaking in, so please check back often.

God Bless and Happy Spring!

It's about time!

We have finally done it! After quite a while saying that we were going to, we have finally accomplished it!! A lot of sweat and tears went into it, but I'm thrilled to say it's about time!

What is it?

Well, a little embarrassing to say the least, but we have finally finished our master bathroom. It wasn't a remodel mind you, just a repair. Unfortunately, it has taken us a long time to complete it.

Some time ago (we can't remember when), the stand up shower in our master bathroom got a crack in the floor. We tore the shower out with the plans to replace it. Then, we remembered that we have a modular home and the shower is a smaller size than usual and required a specific shower (unless we wanted to remodel the entire bathroom). Since we had another bathroom, this was not going to be a big deal for us - we would just use the other shower until we could afford to get the one for the house.

Yet one day, not too long ago, we were shopping and decided to try and patch the crack. The fiberglass sheets and resin that we bought seemed to repair the crack nicely even though it didn't look too good. This past weekend we decided to finally start taping, gluing, screwing and nailing everything back in place. As of about 9:30 tonight, we have a working, operational shower back in our own bathroom that we can start to use again! And....we did it all ourselves. That little fact makes me feel good.

I want to thank everyone who has offered to help in one way or the other. This was a test of sorts for Ben and I, and I am very proud of Ben for not giving in to my whines and demands. He is a much handier guy than I imagined him to be - just one more thing to love about him!

Deals

Over the past couple of weeks, Ben and I have had some time to get some running around done that we don't normally get done when we are both working so much. One of these errands resulted in us hitting the Steve & Barry's that is going out of business. We were both looking for just some T-shirts and when the sign at S&B said "5 for $10", I figured - what the heck! We spent probably a good 3 hours in the store looking through their HUGE selection of T-shirts, and came away with shirts to last us for quite some time, and spending less than $25.

In addition, we went to JC Penney's today to spend a gift card that we had gotten for Christmas. Technically, the card was for both of us, but I was donating it to Ben since I have one for a store for my clothes. We spent some time at Penney's looking for more dress shirts for Ben, and again, came away with a steal! Especially for Penney's! He ended up with 5 dress shirts - all of which are long sleeve so he doesn't have to be cold at work again - for just over $50. The original price of these shirts was just over $210.

For us, these deals are big. We usually don't spend much money on our own clothes, and ask for cards for birthday's or other celebrations. To be able to get good quality clothes at the prices that we are getting them is incredible. I'm hoping to use my card in the next couple of days and get a few more deals. Hope everyone else is successful as well in their ventures!

Special People

Many people have touched my lives, and I don't think that I appreciate them as much as I should. All of you mean a lot to me and I love you all very much:

• My husband, Ben:Thank you, honey, for all you are and all you do. You mean so much to me!
• My Mom & Dad: Thank you both for being you and never giving up. You've taught me more than you may realize.
• My brothers : You are both very special to me and have always been there for me. We may have our differences at times, but our bonds are strong. I'm proud of the men that you both have become.
• My sisters-in-law: Both of you are more than just my brother's spouses - you are both my friends and I'm proud to call you both my sister!
• Carol: A surrogate mother welcomed into our family. Our lives are all blessed to have you in it.
• David: The greatest nephew in the world. What else can I say??
• My Best Friend, Barb: You know, by now, how special you are to me. I don't know where I would be without you! Your family, all of them, are such a bright light in a sometimes dark day. Thank you so much for being there, no matter what!
• My In-laws: I married more than just Ben more than 10 years ago, and I can honestly say that I am glad to be a part of your family.
• My business team: Ok, we are obviously more than business associates - we are all friends. We make a great team. We have such a great time together, and all of you are extremely special to me. Thank you all for hanging in there with us!
• My church family: Helping with the Contemporary Service and joining the bowling league has allowed me to realize how many special people are in the St. Mark family.
• To everyone else who has made a difference in my life. Some of you may not realize that the "small" impact that you believe you made, actually made a huge one.

I thank you all, again, from the bottom of my heart for being you - and being special. Some pictures of all of you (sorry I don't have pics of everyone):

Dearest Lord God...

We come here today to thank you
For the blessings you’ve given
When you sent Your only Son
To us from up in Heaven
This day of Jesus’ birth
Let us remember the reason
For His coming to us is the
Greatest gift of the season
We are grateful for those who
Are gathered here today
And ask for more blessings
To those who are away
Thank you for our family and
The love that holds us together
And keep Your hands upon us
As we face the severe weather
Help us all to remember
Your Son’s humble birth
And that many are struggling
Upon this great Earth
And that the challenges faced
In today’s society
Is causing a lot of
Unnecessary anxiety
We pray for peace in families
And world nations throughout
And that Your Spirit will reach
To those who are without
As a family we ask
That we continue to draw closer
In the Spirit of Christmas
Today and Forever
Help us make today memorable
As we celebrate again
In Your Holy name
We all say “Amen”.

I hope everyone had a great and blessed Christmas!

I hope I did the right thing...

**For those of you who will worry about this post - don't, please. It's okay, really. Just venting and letting off some stress. I worry often about things that I've said or done and most of the time they pass by without a thought (hence, wasting my energy in the worrying). Thank you though for your concerns! Love yous! Please read on...***

Most of you who read this know me pretty well. I am someone who second guesses everything that she does or says. Sometimes, it pays off. Other times, I've exhibited a lot of stress on just simply worrying about something for no reason.

Today, is one of those days...

You know, sometimes things just happen. I have to believe that there is a reason for that thing to happen, but that never helps stop the worry. I had a discussion with my boss today...and I told the truth. Why is it that the truth is the right thing, but sometimes seems like a really bad thing???

Anyway, I worry now just simply about my boss misconstruing what I said. He and I are always pretty open and honest with each other (ooohh, he HATES to be lied to) and he really is a good guy. Yet he always watches out for himself, just as we all do, and what I said may be something that could hurt him in the future. I worry that this potential hurt will be something that he safe guards against now in order to not be hurt in the future.

But, I told the truth. I told him what I felt he needed to hear. I told him what I KNOW I needed to say. So, is this where the belief in God comes in that He is watching over and supporting what I have done? That this is all happening for a particular reason?

It'll work itself out somehow, I know that. I believe that. I just needed to share....

History

As we continue to watch history unfold, I have now had a few days to reflect on what has happened. I first want to start out with just the quick disclaimer that this post is reflecting simply my opinion. There may be things that I write about history that may technically be wrong, but this is the way that I view and remember from my education.

I can honestly say that my biggest disappointed in the lack of research of the candidates that it appears had been done by the American people. In the past 8 years, I have become much more aware of politics and the role that they play in our lives each day. As this election day got closer, I researched each candidate to determine the one that focused on the issues that were important to me: abortion, energy, economy, illegal aliens, Iraq war, small business ownership, etc. Based on those stances, I made my decision.

America was founded on the principles of:

• The freedom from religious persecution - meaning that all of us are free to support any religion we want to,
• The freedom to be individuals - regardless of skin color, sex, martial status, sexual orientation, etc.,

The fact is that so many people went out to vote simply to support a race, or deny a religion. This is what upsets me so much about this election. Yes, I'm upset over who was ultimately the winner, but simply because he does not support those things important to me, not for any other reason.

You know, just seven years ago, the American people came together in unity as our home front was terrorized. Today, we are all at odds over this election. What happened? I think we need to come back together in unity, support our governmental leaders as much as we can, without impacting our own morals and values, and work on keeping America the greatest Democracy in the world!

Another post....

This is going to just be a quick post to say a quick THANK YOU to everyone! I have felt many prayers being said for me and I really do appreciate it! I wanted to share a quick story...

At work, I have been helping a young man with some math tutoring. He had decided a few months ago that he wanted to go back to school (college), but was looking for some help. Unfortunately, he has quite a few learning disabilities which makes things a little more challenging. However, I have to be completely honest when I say that I feel so good at the end of the day (most of the time) because I have been able to work on my math. (For those of you who don't know me, I absolutely love math and wish I had pursued something more in that line.) Anyway, things have been a little rough for him lately due to some personal issues and frustration has set in for both of us. But, I am learning that the role that I play as a tutor to him is turning more into becoming a mentor for things outside of math - as I try to steer him towards a much more positive attitude and outlook on his life.

That is pretty much the story, and while it has its days, I do have to say that I come home each night refreshed and excited that I am making a difference in the life of this guy (btw, he is older than I am). His parents (my bosses) praise me everyday for working with him and having the patience. They keep telling me how I was an answer to a prayer, while I think I am beginning to realize that my prayers were the ones answered. Amazing how God works, isn't it??

Again, this experience has taught me a lot about myself as well as others. Maybe, just maybe, I should consider the whole teaching path again...do I really want to go back to school again?????

Yes, I'm still here....

I've had a couple of complaints, and concerns, about my not posting in a while. I really do apologize. Writing things out makes me realize that I really have a pretty boring life...

You know what is hard? I read blogs of parents all the time. While I love reading the stories and laughing at all the good times that were shared, it really does make me feel as though I don't fit in here in blogging world...I realize that not everyone that has a blog also has kids, but it seems like all the ones I read are that way. I don't have any fun stories to share, or cute pics of beautiful kids to boast about, and it makes me feel like an outsider (I've brought that on myself).

Anyway, I have found that I've felt much less motivated over the last few weeks than I did when I wrote things out in this blog. Maybe, just maybe, there really is something to this. At least it is a way to get some things off my mind.

My fear, sometimes, in writing on this blog is how some people may end up taking what I am writing. I don't want to worry anyone, or scare anyone, or upset anyone. However, I guess some things that I say/write may just not come out correctly for each and every person. As a disclaimer here: I'm fine, really. And, I apologize if I offend.

As with the rest of the world, things are tight right now. However, my hubby and I have turned to rely on the strength of our relationship and God's grace to get us through this tough time. We have some great friends that are helping us in the journey and eventually things will not be so tough. These friends know who you are, so a BIG THANKS TO ALL OF YOU!!!

So, for all of you who have expressed a concern, or asked why I don't update anymore, here is my response. I'm fine, just a little lost and still finding my way. I'll get there, and get into a routine someday. But, thanks so much for all the thoughts and concerns...maybe I'll have a few stories shortly.

Update

So, I haven't written in a while, and I do apologize. I could make the excuse that I am just too busy, but that doesn't really work for me. Haven't felt much like writing - or have had a very uneventful past couple of weeks - would probably be closer to the truth.

In all reality, we have been pretty busy - at least our weekends. Between massages, lake fun, fairs, bonfires, and other fun things, our weekends have just been busy. Our weeknights aren't much better, especially since we usually don't get home until close to 6:30 each night - and it takes a toll!

One night, we came home from work to find that the fence that Ben (and my brother Lance) put in our front yard had been run into by a car. There were headlight pieces all over our yard along with two of the fence posts pretty much broken. We tried to file a police report, but the officer didn't seem to think it was worth the time, since it would be about a $15 repair. Oh well - one more thing for the "Honey do" list!

This past weekend, we had a Thompson family reunion picnic. Ben's grandmother is 86 years old, and all of her kids, their kids, grandkids, great-grandkids, and even one great-great-granddaughter was able to make it. Ben's cousins are a few years older than him, so there isn't much in common or any close relationship, but it is nice to see everyone together. It was also nice to be able to do this for grandma, since we aren't sure how many more times it will happen. Here is a pic of most of the family (it was taken before everyone was there):

In addition to that, we had a picnic with our Praise Team at our church. The leader decided to have a picnic at his house, where we got to all play some badminton and just enjoy some fellowship. The weather turned out great! It's been lots of fun, and I really hate to see the summer winding down. Hope you have all had a great summer!

Fair Week

Getting a caramel apple with nuts
Eating it all, though it adds to the gut
Needing a soda to wash it all down
Enjoying the sights and sounds all around
Seeing the people, some big and some small
Entering contests, but can't win them all
Exhibiting pictures, two in each year

Consuming a greasy elephant ear
Orbiting the fairgrounds, everyday
Using some money for fun games to play
Nibbling on corn dogs, a pizza or fries
Trying to keep from increasing my thighs
Yawning as the day turns slowly to night

Fearing the ride as it starts to take flight
Aahing and oohing at all the events
Indulging again in some of the tents
Riding the Freak-Out and Scrambler, too
Saying "Farewell" as the fair is now through

True Friends

I have some very true friends in my life, that I am eternally grateful for. As I saw this video last night, I was reminded that regardless of the fact that I have lost touch with some of my friends, true friendships last forever. I thank God for all my friends, everyday, whether we've just recently become friends, or have been friends forever and somehow lost touch. I love you all! Enjoy...

A day late...

Yesterday was my dad's birthday, and I didn't get a chance all day to send him some extra special wishes. Therefore, I thought I would post real quick and wish him a great day (I talked to him the day before his birthday) and a great weekend!

He is spending the weekend up north at a lake. The weather is beautiful for that kind of thing, and Ben and I had considered heading up there to spend some time. Unfortunately, we had a business seminar that we had to go to, so we didn't get a chance.

My dad has been a great big support for me for many years. He is a wonderful guy and I very happy to have him as my dad!

So anyway, Dad, I hope you had a great day yesterday and plans for a great week! We love you very much and hope to spend some time with you this week! Love you!

Here's a pic of me and my parents.