Zombie Mom

You should see me now....on second thought I guess not. Very scary. Very scary indeed. I got a good look at myself this morning as I stumbled into the bathroom and glanced in the mirror. AAAaaaaa! I even scared myself. How in the world can I go to bed with my hair all brushed out and looking nice and wake up with a rat's nest? What sort of strange metamorphosis occurs in the night that I am unaware of? I could be the lead in one of those zombie movies. I didn't get much sleep last night----and I need sleep! Don't you hate when you WANT to sleep but it just eludes you? Then you wake up looking like you've been run over by a truck. Good thing my students can overlook the zombie thing. They don't even flinch. They are a brave lot.

I suppose I need to grade the Social Studies tests. Even zombie moms have a job to do.

Cold Days And An Even Colder Kitchen Floor

My feet are freezing. I had to go get my pink fuzzy slippers. I'm currently at "my post". The desk that is in the kitchen....so I can keep a watchful eye on my home school kiddos and type my daily blog at the same time:)

My kitchen floor is pretty to look at...it is stone tile. Very durable. But very cold! In our new house we will have radiant heat in the floor and my toes will be so happy. Speaking of our new house, Scott is so excited to get things underway. Well, I am too but I'm going to be here and he's going to be the one in Ohio actually getting the beginning stuff taken care of. I have to say I'm so impressed with how he has designed the house. He has everything on computer (of course) and is going to have his plans printed out just like blue prints. He is something else. He has also been a huge help with getting me started in my new business. I could not ask for a more supportive husband. Last night I was looking at him all ga-ga with stars in my eyes. He gave me one of those side ways glances. I said, " I love you" and he told me he loved me too. I continued to stare at him. He looked at me again with a quizzical look on his face. I just gave him a big dopey grin. He probably thinks I've lost my mind ( although I assure him insanity does NOT run in my family). Oh well. I just love my husband......even if he does beat me practically every night at Boggle, and even if he does kick me sometimes in bed when he is dreaming (one night he must have been doing karate in his sleep with all the flailing around that was going on), and he does work diligently to create more piles of stuff for me to clean.....Even so, he still is the best guy around.

It's Purely Arbonne

I have a new career. Yes, you heard me. After 17 years of teaching, now a home schooling mom, I've decided to take on network marketing as a consultant for Arbonne. Arbonne is a company that produces the most awesome color, skincare, weight loss and aromatherapy. It is formulated in Switzerland but made here in the good ol' U.S. A. (Now, I am not making promises that if you use Arbonne you will be transformed into a beautiful Swiss girl but I for one can dream, right?) Seriously, it is a wonderful company with products that are pure and simple. As I get older (aka "more mature") I realize more and more how much I need, not just good, but great skincare. Heredity does play a small role in how a person ages, but the majority of aging comes from environmental factors. Thank goodness, I can have some power over that!

I am currently reading a book by Mary Christensen. She is teaching me how to be a network marketing superstar. She is a very good writer and makes things simple enough so that those of us that do not have a business background can still understand everything she says. She is a good "coach".

This is yet another adventure in my life. I'm looking forward to it. I'm glad I made a decision to try this path. As I get older I realize that many of the things that I thought were scary when I was younger, really aren't all that scary. I CAN be successful in areas that I never even considered earlier in my life. Yes, starting something new takes discipline and determination, but what truly significant stuff in life doesn't? I'll take a tip from the ladies of the Red Hat Society. Put on your hat and go out into the world and don't worry about what others think. Your happiness and satisfaction in life is totally up to you.

Deer, Oh Deer, Oh Deer!!

Another weekend spent in Ohio. We were getting Scott's "mini" apartment cleaned and ready for him to move into. I scrubbed and scrubbed with Clorox, Murphy's Oil Soap, and various bathroom cleaners....and probably killed a few brain cells due to the fumes....but it was for a good cause!! MY IDEA of clean and the lady's idea of clean (that owns the apt.) are obviously two different things! I wanted the place clean for my husband. Now it will be up to him to keep it that way. He probably will, if for nothing else but the fact that he is bored there, all by himself. It will give him something to do when he's not working or out and about on house adventures. Seriously, Scott is amazing about this house we are building. He has it under control. I am amazed at how he has planned things, made programs to show the walls of the house, has studied how to do things and who to talk with. He really is something else! I am a blessed lady.

Now about the deer....when leaving the village of Rushsylvania Scott and I observed on the snow covered fields at least 60 deer. We would see a couple of dozen, then about 9 or 10, then 20 more etc..... It was very picturesque to see the deer on the snow, with the cold gray sky behind them. The only thing is that we are going to have to be very careful with so many deer around. When we were driving 4 deer ran out in front of our van (far enough ahead that it was no problem....but then again it wasn't dark yet...that might have been different.)

Ohio is definitely going to be a fun adventure. I'm trying to be patient about moving. I just can't wait for some space!!

Autism Training Video--No It's Not At Your Local Blockbuster

As many of you know Jessica's son, Kade, was diagnosed with autism this past summer. He was 4 years old at the time. I don't think she will mind me saying that, as she is interested in getting the word out about autism like so many other parents of autistic children. With that said, it has been a difficult journey with the school system there in Texas. Following through is not a big priority for them. So Scott and I decided that we would help Jessica and Eddie by making all kinds of materials for them to use with Kade. (Being that my background is in special education and that I worked with many students that have autism) We created a picture exchange system for him using many of the pictures Jessica had sent me through email. (Isn't technology great?) He will now have magnetic picture calendars, if-then boards, schedule strips, mini schedule book, social stories etc. We have even made a training video for Kade's family. Scott worked the set, was camera man and did voice overs. I am the star of the show, having most of the talking parts. (I expect a knock on my door about an Oscar nomination any day now.) The kids played the role of autistic children for demonstration purposes. It is a low budget film, but the camera man comments that it is "excellent quality". All these things are so necessary for young children with autism. Many people with autism "see" in pictures. They are very visual and so that is why having a schedule board and being able to see what is expected, or what is going to happen next is so important to Kade. If he is expected to do something but has no idea what will be happening he gets anxious, scared and unsure....that is when he begins acting out. The sooner young children learn how to use these materials the calmer it will be for them and their families.

Let me give you an example of what it would be like to be autistic. Please be patient with me in this description, as I try to help you understand. Remember autism is on the rise and it is very likely that you will, if you haven't already, encounter a person who has autism. Visualize that you and I are in a room together. I can clearly see you and you can clearly see me. I'm on one side of the room and you are on the other. The only thing is that there is thick, soundproof glass that divides us. I have a heavy box that I need help picking up so I ask you if you will help me? You look at me and see my mouth moving--realize that I'm saying something, but do not understand me. So I ask you again, this time with a bit more urgency because this box is getting heavy. Again you see me, but don't know what I'm doing with that box and can not understand what you are saying to me. At this point I am beyond frustrated because I just dropped the box and stuff went everywhere. I look at you and yell, "Thanks a lot for your help!" At this point you are upset too. You realize something is wrong, you see the look on my face. It is not a happy face. You wonder what you did? I come over to the glass and say, "why didn't you help me! I needed you!" You are so upset because you can see I'm angry. You begin to hit yourself in the head or stomp your foot because this is causing you a great deal of frustration and anxiety. I watch as you throw yourself to the floor in a big heap. I wonder what in the world is going on? Why did he do that? Why is he acting that way? So I wave my hands to get your attention. You look up and see me waving. You wave back. I get it now. You need my help to understand! I point at you and then I point at the box. I pretend to lift the box. Then I smile. Oh! you say. Finally, you know what I'm talking about. I get it now.

That example is a very basic understanding of what it is to be able to communicate with autism. That is why visuals are so important. The more "concrete" something is the easier it is to see and understand. The cause of autism, understanding it and finding a cure are close to my heart. I've had the privilege of working with children who happen to have autism. What a great group of kids. I've also had the opportunity to hear stories from parents who love their children dearly, and try their very best, as they struggle, as they cry, as they try to overcome the barriers that autism brings with it.

Death of a Young Star

Yesterday Heath Ledger died. Now, a lot of people don't know him or haven't followed his career...but he was a young star in Hollywood. He died at 28. No one currently knows what caused his death, it might have been accidental or not, or maybe a physical problem no one knew about. The point is that he is dead. No matter what, it is sad. It doesn't matter that he was a star. He's dead. Death truly is the great equalizer. No one is ever promised tomorrow. None of us. It doesn't matter how much money he had or how popular he was. He's gone. I think most of us have a mistaken mindset that "these people" have everything...or at least all this earth has to offer. But when it comes to things like this, is that enough? No. It was heartbreaking to hear his father speak on the news. He had learned of his son's death on the TV of all places! (His family lives in Australia.) This young man has a 2 year old daughter that will grow up not knowing her father. I guess because I've been through the death of a spouse, and a parent these kind of stories get to me. I didn't know this man, I have no idea what his personal life was like, but I am still touched by this.

As a Christian I have the assurance of life after death. I am secure in what will happen to me at the moment that I cease to take a breath on this earth. My loved ones will know that I am with my Heavenly Father, who I've personally known and loved for the majority of my life. Let's be honest, money CAN buy a lot of happiness and security, but money CANNOT buy this relationship. I didn't have to be rich to buy a share, I didn't need to be beautiful to be accepted, nor did I have to network to find my way into this relationship...it was freely given. My Lord already paid the price. That is a difficult concept for a lot of people to understand....after all nothing is FREE. Well, that is true. I never said my salvation was free, I said it was freely given. I didn't pay the price. Christ did. That, my friend, is a peace that no amount of money in the world could ever buy.

Food For Thought

I've been very disturbed lately with all these women who end up missing, only to be found dead later on. Is it only me or does this seem to be happening more frequently? Maybe it's just more media coverage, I'm not sure. It seems like some of these husbands or boyfriends are sociopaths. They can carry on like nothing is wrong that their wife, girlfriend, or significant other is missing. Very bizarre.  And very scary.The one unfortunate young woman went hiking on New Years Day and was killed by an older man that she shared a conversation with while their dogs romped together on a break. That is creepy. Or the guy who not only murdered a fellow marine, but burned her AND his unborn child. I'm sorry but a person has to have a serious mental break to be able to do that. Then there is the middle eastern man who shot his 2 older teenage daughters at point blank range in the back of his cab because he had suspected that they had started dating. He considered it an "honor killing". Then he ran. I realize that through the years there has always been violence against women, and the media does bring it more to the forefront now, but still even with that said it does seem to be more prevalent. Why is that, do you think? Yes, there have always been "bad" seeds. Men who were frightening....... BUT... I KNOW that there are good men out there too. The kind of man that wants to protect women and take care of them. Men of character and integrity. I wish the media would show us some of those stories. I think we all need to see them.

Burma Shave

Back in the day there were Burma Shave advertising signs along the side of the road. Some of you have no earthly idea what I am talking about, and some of you, from an older generation, ( I won't mention any names) know what it is I'm speaking of. Honestly, this was before my time too, BUT I collect tins and while I was downstairs this morning running copies for the kiddos I was admiring my tin collection. I have a Burma Shave tin. It is a reproduction, but it has a nice shaving brush and round soap bar in it. (not used!) So, as you already know my mind wanders. I can be doing one thing, see something else and my mind begins to ponder about that... NO. I'm not ADD. I just like to think about stuff.

I have loved reading the fun jingles for Burma Shave that the advertisers came up with. So in tribute to fun advertising, and nostalgia I've come up with some of my own "Burma Shave" jingles. Hope you enjoy, or they at least make you smile today:)

Stay At Home Moms

Work All Day

Putting In Overtime

For No Pay!

Store Coupons

Rebates Galore

One More Trip

To The Walmart Store.

Get Up Early

To Home School Teach

Having Dreams About

A Nice Warm Beach.

A Faithful Husband

Who Loves Her So

He Tells Her Often

So She Will Know.

Life Is Good

And Things Are Great

Now I Must Go

I'm Running Late!

I look just like my Daddy!

I was reading an article online from our local paper this morning. It was a sweet story about a couple that already had 3 children, but felt called to adopt three little boys (ages 3-8) from Ukraine. The boys had been in different orphanages for about a year and missed each other terribly. Even though they speak Russian, one could just look at the picture of those smiling faces to know how happy they were! It was the neatest picture seeing them get off the plane together.

My former pastor and his wife adopted their son from Romania. He was 2 1/2 when they adopted him. The pastor told a story once about how his son would "steal" everyones food and hide it. They didn't understand until it dawned on them, that with the orphanage he had been in, food was scarce. You ate what you had quickly before anyone else got it. This behavior went on, and pastor wasn't sure what to do....then an idea occurred to him after seeing his toddler son with a small cake donut. He made a necklace out of some yarn, and looped it through the small donut. He let his son wear it around the house....food was always where he could see it, or eat it, if he so chose. After a couple of weeks of this, the little boy finally understood that his basic need for food would always be met. The "visual" of the donut showed him the "invisible" love and stability that his new parents were giving him.

Some friends of mine adopted two little girls from China. The oldest daughter was 4 when I had her in Junior Kids Church. She was bubbly and full of energy! (a.k.a a chatterbox) Her mom told me the cutest story about her. Her mom and dad had gotten involved with a local group of parents that had adopted Chinese children. They would meet at the park and play etc.... Well, one day one of the other parents came up to the little girl and said, " Sweetie, aren't you glad to see and play with other children that look just like you?" To which she innocently replied, " I look just like my daddy!" How touching is that? (her father is tall with light brown hair and fair skin and her mom is a fair skinned natural blond.) It just goes to show that children many times don't see the differences, they just see the similarities....and that real love truly can be blind.

Cold and Gray, Winter Day

I'm sitting at the kitchen table looking out the french doors to the cold, gray day outside. Winter is usually an ugly season...unless it has just snowed and there is that soft silence and everything is covered with white. The trees have no leaves, the grass is brown, and the sky looks dull. Well, I see a little green outside, from the evergreens, but that is about it.

I really just don't understand how some people can say that there is no God. These same trees that I'm looking at now, that appear so dead, will in just a few short months begin to bud. Leaves will uncurl. Flowers will bloom, and the yard will become a sea of green. God sets all of nature in motion each year. Wow.

When we were in Ohio last week I looked out the van window as we were driving down one of the many long, country roads. A vast tapestry of black velvet stretched out before us. I looked up at the glittering stars and was once again reminded that God is in control. I serve a God who wanted there to be stars in the heavens so He just called them into existence. Amazing.

When visiting with my dear friend who just had a baby a few months ago, I was in awe. This sweet child was perfectly formed. He breathed. He swallowed. He digested his milk. His eyes tracked his mommy as she moved around the room. He knew her voice. He was fearfully and wonderfully made. How could anyone believe that there is not a loving Creator?
The same God who creatively made our world, loves us. He made us with a desire for Him. Some people choose to ignore that desire, to shove that in the back of their mind. How sad, to miss the opportunity to know God. His love for us is incredible, actually too much for our finite minds to comprehend. He can take people whose lives look as dead as these winter trees, and make them new. They can have lives they never thought possible, with just a touch from His hand.

I have never understood how some people say, "Being a Christian is just a crutch. You want to believe in something that just doesn't exist. You have to be strong and stand on your own, because no one else is going to be there for you." Those words pour out of a hollow heart. A heart that has never been allowed to be moldable by the Potters Hand. How can they believe God doesn't exist? Doesn't it make more sense to believe that there is an Intelligent designer rather than believe that everything just came together without a real purpose? Doesn't it take MORE faith to believe that everything is in such random order, it just happened.... then to believe in a Creator?

Video Games Can Cause Brain Damage

Okay, so maybe they really don't CAUSE brain damage, to the participant that is.....maybe just to the parent that happens to be beating her head against the wall as she tries to pry her obsessed children off of a game. Maybe I'm just old but I don't get this whole "virtual world" thing. Isn't the real world enough of a challenge? I think so. But that is just my opinion. Hey, this can't be so difficult....I could make a virtual reality game. Forget the young kids, I'd make my game for the parents. In this game the virtual kids would wait on their parents. AND they would smile while doing it! Virtual mom would get extra points for every extra 15 minutes she stayed in bed. She would earn more points for picking out the most flattering outfit to wear. (wearing sweatpants and T-shirts is a deduction in points) Dad would earn more peace and quiet points while he was working. ( a point deduction for each interruption from his virtual family members...double point deduction for any major calamity such as broken bones, throwing up, or blood loss.)

If the entire family survived and had at least the minimum number of points at "graduation" of the virtual children then the family earns a mega vacation to someplace warm and exotic. Aaahhhh.....now that is my kind of game.

Blinded By The Light

My dear, sweet husband bought me a beautiful engagement and wedding ring. I enjoy them very much. We were at the mall last week and went by the jewelry store. He suggested that since we were there why not get them cleaned? I said okay, so off we went to the store. Good thing we did. Turns out my diamond was loose. I needed the prongs on my ring tightened. Since Scott had enough forethought to get the lifetime warranty when he bought them, we left the ring to be taken care of. I missed my rings. My finger felt naked. I pulled out my fake, CZ ring and put it on. It was pretty, and to those who didn't know the truth, it seemed like a real diamond ring. But to me it just wasn't the same. I knew the truth. I thought about how my rings were a lot like us as Christians. How many times have I felt like everything was going along as planned, everything in my life looked good....but then God lovingly decides that I need to be cleaned. The world and all it's trappings are making me dirty AGAIN. Sometimes the cleaning bothers me, it makes me frustrated and I miss my old ways. I might even try and fake the change. "God, I'm fine. I'm doing well. Really, I promise. See, I can still shine." God, because He is God, sees right through me. There is no fooling God. "No, Dawn you need to be fixed up. The world is wearing you down. I love you enough to take care of you. This might hurt a bit, but trust me. After you spend time with Me you will truly shine." After spending time with the Lord I am made new. It is the real thing. Other people notice something is different. God is so good.

I got my rings back last night. The diamond was sitting nicely in the tightened prongs. My rings had been shined and polished. I was nearly blinded by the brilliance of the light bouncing off the diamonds. They were beautiful. I put my fake CZ back in my purse. I didn't need it anymore, because now I had the real thing.

Noisy Dishwashers and Quiet Kids

Okay, what is wrong? I'm doing a load of dishes this morning and I'm noticing how noisy the dishwasher is. It's a fairly new dishwasher, but it's just noisy. Note to self: New house will have a quiet dishwasher. The kids are quiet this morning. No, they have not fallen back asleep. They are working. Working quietly. I'm glad about this. Hopefully, this will last throughout the day. Hey, at least I can dream.

I really need to go to the grocery store today and I really need to do some laundry. Boy, doesn't that sound exciting? I need to work up a little enthusiasm I suppose. I know, I know....my family needs clean underwear and they need to be fed. I guess I need to take action. Hey, no one can claim that I don't care about world peace.....or at least family peace....or at the very least being clean.....well, okay maybe at least fed.....Oh, alright already. I feel guilty for sitting here on the computer. I'm getting up and getting moving!! But now I have a guilt complex. This means I'm going to be forced to buy ice cream at the grocery store this afternoon. It's a vicious cycle.

I Just Want To Sit In The Closet

If this day continues like it has then I am in big trouble. It started at 3:55 am. Ace was barking like a maniac. I don't know what he was barking at but he woke me up. He barked continuously for the next 35 minutes. I know this because I was wide awake. Laying there in the dark. Listening to him. Ugh. Finally I fell back into a fitful sleep and woke at 7. I laid there awhile longer, but eventually got up. I stumbled out to the kitchen and had my devotional time. The message hit me squarely between the eyes. It was about not being stubborn and doing things my way, but waiting on the Lord. Okay, Lord. I get it. So, I fix my breakfast and start to get the kids up when I steal a glance at the family calendar in the kitchen. Oh, no! Bradley's dental appointment is at 9:30. (It was 8:30 at this point) I had intended to take my shower while the kids were eating breakfast. I guess not. I threw on some clothes, washed my face (but no makeup),brushed my teeth, and pulled my hair in a clip. I looked in the mirror and thought to myself, "I have become the stereotypical suburban mom." Rushing off to get my child to an appt., trying to do 50 things at once....Double Ugh. Before leaving I checked the other two kids goals and told them to work hard while I was gone with Bradley. I also made Scott some coffee before going out the door. Since we had just gotten in from our Ohio trip last night the van was parked in front of my car. I decided to just go ahead and take the van. The parking brake was on and I couldn't get it off. I pushed it. I jiggled it. I pulled at it. I had pushed the release but it was not cooperating. The clock was ticking and I knew we were going to be late getting to the dentist. Frustration was setting in...and it wasn't pretty. I started talking to the van. "Stupid van! Let go already!" " I'm going to win this battle--if I have to yank your parking brake pedal completely off!" Yes. Okay. When I get frustrated I sometimes start talking to inanimate objects. Crazy. I know. FINALLY, I pulled, pushed and jiggled it enough and it released! We were free. I sped out of the driveway and we got to the dentist 10 minutes late. Triple Ugh. Oh, well. The appointment itself went well for Bradley so that was good. The drive home was enjoyable. We chatted about his plans after high school. (though I must say being a skydiving instructor had me a little nervous) I just hope all these events this morning aren't an omen for the rest of the week.

P.S. Didn't I say this would happen? Last week I blogged about what a good week it had been. I jinxed myself. I hope I don't get struck by lightening this week!

Another Interesting Trip To Ohio

Let's see....I blogged on Saturday night at the motel. So now I'll fill everyone in on Sunday and Monday. Scott and I were supposed to meet with this man who needed someone to house sit for him while he was in Florida. We thought this would be great while Scott was in Ohio working on the new house. It never panned out. Scott called and left messages, had set up a time to meet ...everything. The guy never called back. Obviously, God had other plans for us and house sitting for this man was not part of it. Well, Sunday morning we went to church and it was an enjoyable service. The pastor was getting over being sick so his voice was starting to go, but it was an excellent sermon on living out our faith on a daily basis and teaching our children. So many people introduced themselves to us. Calvary Baptist is a very friendly church. We feel very blessed that God has brought us to this church.

After church and lunch we set off to the stables where we have Breanna's pony. We got to see Jazz and pet the other horses too. The young woman and man that own the place have a donkey as their farm "mascot". Boy oh boy was she "talking" to us. For being so small she sure could make a lot of noise! Scott and I got a classifieds paper and looked for apartments for him as we drank our coffee at Tim Hortons. ( a great coffee spot!) We found what sounded like the perfect place in Mt. Victory, Ohio. (near our Amish friend) I called the lady who owned the apartments and she sounded really nice so I set up and appt. for us to see the place this morning. Even though the apartment is an economy apt. and it's so small Scott could be in the shower and get something out of the refrigerator at the same time, it will work for our purposes. It's not a problem for us to rent on a short term basis, say 6 months. Scott will also be able to get internet. That is important. I can't say that I'm thrilled about us being apart on and off for the next several months while our house is being built, but he needs to be there to oversee things being done on the house. I'll just have to stick it out and be a "single mom" for a while. I have a feeling I might be using the "the look" a lot. If the kids give me too much griping they might "mysteriously lose" their electronics. Of course, we told them that we expect that they will be loving, obedient, and helpful children and that I shouldn't expect a moments trouble from any of them. (Oh, wait a minute....I think I just drifted off to my happy place......back to reality:)

Oh, I forgot to mention on Sunday evening around 5 we stopped by Mr. Miller's house. He and his fiance', Mary, were there. We chatted for about 45 minutes about our house. He is very knowledgeable. All of us pretty much sat around in the dark and talked, until it got really dark and Daniel lit an oil lamp. Mary was very quiet and didn't really participate in the conversation, but Daniel talks and has a good sense of humor. He said something about them not being like the young people today who find someone on the computer to marry. I about fell out of my seat! I wanted to laugh out loud, but he wouldn't have understood.....so I held my laugh in until we left and got in the van to leave. Considering that is how Scott and I met---it just cracked me up. It is such a collision of opposite worlds us (the technological/internet/cell phone family vs. the plain/simple family. So funny. I find it so interesting. I'm always learning something new. (Daniel informed us that they went back to church around 7 and it wasn't over until 10) While driving back to the motel we saw in the distance this lantern light moving across the field. I said, "what is that?". Just as we got up to it we realized it was a black buggy, with jet black horses. The Amish use candles in lanterns to light their buggies at night. They also had to put reflectors on their buggies. Daniel has about 9 horses and they are all jet black. Tall and strong, with long legs. They look almost majestic. I have no idea what breed of horse they are, but they are beautiful. He just looks to them as transportation. They have to be good horses that don't spook easily (cars come right up on them). Monday must be wash day in Amish country. Everyone had their laundry out this morning. It snowed over night and was still snowing this morning...and the wind! It was sooooo cold. I bet that laundry was some kind of cold when they brought it in. Brrr........

Well, I better go for now. Back to school tomorrow.

Uh Oh, Hugh Hefner is on the loose.

So on our trip up to Ohio this time Bradley informs us that he brought his black Christmas robe he got from Mimi and the slippers from Becky. He plans on being a sloth this weekend and after coming back from church laying around in his robe like he is Hugh Hefner. He says and I quote, " I plan on being lazy and doing nothing." So there you go. The world now knows that our eldest is slug-like. Hmmpfff!

Scott and I went out to a town that we are considering as a place for him to get a temporary apartment in. It's pitch black as we drive down the road. All of a sudden on my side of the van are two big deer standing right on the side of the road. Thank goodness that the one deer turned and ran into the field instead of running into the road or our van. They were so close I could have reached out and touched them. It was scary. There are a lot of deer here!

Side note: There is a Tim Horton's here in Bellefontaine. Great coffee and yummy hot chocolate. I think this could possibly be a new coffee place for Scott and me. It's open 24 hours a day and "it's always fresh!" What more could we ask for?

That's all for now. More to come.

I had to laugh

While vacationing back in September at Myrtle Beach, S.C. I was shopping and came across a funny sign. I got it for the home schoolers in my house.

NO WHINING, CRYING, OUTRIGHT BLUBBERING OR THE LIKES THEREOF......WHATSOEVER!!! THIS IS A RESPECTABLE JAIL.

I just got tickled when I saw the sign this morning. I know I'm weird. I have no excuse.

I'm not worried......really.

This week has had some obstacles to be sure, but for the most part it has been pretty good. Now, this always scares me a little bit, because I can't help but think if this week was good, what will next week be like? Can one have 2 good weeks in a row? Is that possible? Will the cosmos be out of alignment if that happens?

It's Friday. The coffee tastes really good today. The kids are all working--QUIETLY. They've done well on their tests this week. Scott and I have spent a lot of time laughing this week. I beat Scott in a game of Boggle this week. (Oh, and did that feel great!) I found a book I wanted at the store...it was the last one left and so I was excited to get it, I had lunch with some girlfriends from school, and I got several chores finished around the house. ( I love being able to check things off on my to do list.) All in all it has been a good week. Hopefully, I won't be struck my lightening next week or some other such thing. I'm not worried........really.

Rainy Day Thursday

It took all my determination to get up this morning. It was storming outside. Thunder crashing. Rain pelting. I was warm and cozy all snuggled up in bed. Scott pulled the covers up and rolled over. I wanted to roll over too....but I didn't. Being the good mom and school teacher I am, I dragged myself out of bed. I put on the green fluffy robe. I didn't worry about combing my hair or brushing my teeth. (Hey, normally I am on it, but it was gray and rainy and I didn't feel like it this morning! Before you are too grossed out, I WILL do that in a little while, ok?) I turned the coffee pot on, and then fixed my breakfast and sat down with my devotional book. After that I felt a bit better and a tad more energized for the day. I went around the house flipping on lights and in my most cheery (okay, bordering on psychotic) voice I told the kids it was time to get up and greet the day. It didn't go well. Greeting the day for them is a few animal sounding grunts and pulling the covers over their heads. I let them know that I am not going away and I can be very persistent. Little do they know (but are learning as time goes on) that in order to be a mom I had to go through basic training, much like the U.S.Marines. I learned how to have a drill sergeant voice, an expression that says "don't mess with me because I mean business", and the agility and stealthiness to fly through the air, land on a bed , roll, and whip the blankets off before they even know what hit them. I'm a mom. It's my job.

Pine Needles and Other Things That Drive Me Crazy

I knew there was a reason that I did not particularly enjoy fresh, live Christmas trees. Sure they smell great, but who likes having to water them practically every day and who likes getting rid of them when they become dead as a door nail? Yesterday afternoon was the dreaded event. The live (well by now a dead brown twig) Christmas tree had over stayed its welcome at the Gibson house. It was time to go. I had the children strip the tree of all it's ornaments. (note to self: tinsel sticks to everything in sight....carpet, hair, the cat) I had the boys take what was left of the tree to the woods in our back yard. I figure it can decompose among it's own. Of course, taking the tree out of the living room meant a trail of pine needles to the front door. Did I mention I HATE pine needles especially when they have taken up residence in my living room rug? I vacuumed like a crazy woman (that description is not too far off actually). I still think there are pine needles out there, but at the time I became tired and had worked up a sweat with all the vacuuming so I gave up. I was defeated by the pine needles. I vowed to come back later to complete the task. Oh, I also hate tree sap especially when it gets on stuff in the living room. Trying scrubbing sap off of a side table. Not fun and certainly not easy. Really, there is a reason God made trees to live outside. He knew what He was doing.

Why Would Anyone WANT To Be President?

As we all know politics will be a HUGE part of our lives this year. There is no getting around it. Last night I was watching Bill O'Reilly. He was up in New Hampshire. It was pretty funny with his trying to get to talk with Hillary, Obama, and Huckabee. Hillary was pleasant to him (with a mic in her hand). Obama was very charismatic. Bill liked him as a person. Huckabee had a good sense of humor. He was joking around about his friend Chuck Norris. I know we have nearly an entire year to make our decision about who will be next president....this is just the beginning.

Honestly, why do these people want to be president? It would be such a difficult job. You'd never be able to please everyone. You'd have to have a thick skin because someone will always be making fun of you, or disagreeing with your policy. I think it would be aggravating. This doesn't even touch on the fact that you are the leader of the free world. Your decisions will effect millions of people. It's too overwhelming to even think about.

I mean whether a person is Republican, Democrat or an Independent, one has to admit that the job of president is a difficult one. I'm glad there are people who are interested in the job, I for one sure wouldn't want it.

Rash, Rash, Go Away!

Now, that it is pretty much over with I can blog about it. Remember I mentioned that after visiting family at Christmas, Scott and I and the kids stopped for 3 days in Ohio? Well, after a day at the inn I noticed my face had a few red splotches on it. I thought it a bit odd, but figured maybe it was just a fluke thing and just put on my make up as usual. Well, Sunday morning for church I noticed that I now had these red areas around my eyes. That scared me a little. I didn't want anything in my eyes! By Monday (at home) I had a full blown red rash and bumps all over my face...and it itched! It looked like a bad case of acne...but I knew it wasn't acne...because acne doesn't happen like this...and acne doesn't itch like this did. My face never broke out like this before, so what was it? It was embarrassing to me and I didn't want to be seen. Scott decided he wanted to go to Wal-mart. He wanted me to go with him. I was so self conscious that I couldn't even look anyone in the eye. That is so not like me. Normally, I am a friendly person and I enjoy smiling at people....but not on that trip! I started taking Benadryll hoping that it would help. Sure enough it did help. Over this week it has faded and is almost totally gone. With my makeup on one can't even tell I have this rash. Scott and I thought and thought about what could have happened? I hadn't eaten anything odd--and it didn't seem like a food allergy, more like a contact allergy. What had touched my face? Then it hit me! The bed linens at the inn!! I had on a long sleeve pajama top and pajama pants so I was covered except for my neck and face. I like to pull the pillow close to me and snuggle up in it. The inn must have used some sort of scented detergent. In August of 2005 I had bought some detergent with "spring fresh" scent in it. I did not normally do that, but it was on sale. Big mistake on my part. I did all my bed linens, towels, wash clothes, clothes....everything. Well, I broke out ALL OVER in these horrible blotches. I was scared to death as this had not happened to me before. Because I had used the detergent on everything I was getting mega doses of this scented detergent. I ended up at the doctors office and he said it was definitely a contact allergy. I had to go on Prednisone to get rid of it.

So, this time the contact wasn't as bad, but I hate that it was on my face! I have learned my lesson. If we stay at Comfort Inn again (which I liked) I am bringing my own pillow and pillowcases.

Jack Bauer ---The Hero of 24

24

Alright. I admit it. I am so hooked. Scott got me the sixth season of 24 for Christmas. I am enjoying watching it. I also have the entire 1-5 seasons. I tell Scott that Jack is "the man". The United States needs him...after all he can save the country in just 24 hours. The Counter Terrorism Unit (CTU) is a fast paced place to work. AND they also have really cool ring tones on their phones. I do wonder though, how all of the bombs, nukes, terrorist plots, drug cartels, and any other number of dastardly deeds go on in Los Angeles. Who knew? I guess that it is because Jack lives there.

With all my undying devotion to this show you can imagine that I am quite distraught over the writers strike, out in LOS ANGELES. Go figure. Everything happens out there. The new season of 24 was supposed to start the second week of January. Now it is put on indefinite hold. Ugh. Don't these writers know that we have a country to save?!

P.S. I'm adding a picture of "Jack". (also known in real life as Keifer Sutherland)

Freaky Friday

Today was a good day. I spent the morning at Build A Bear with my young nieces. I laughed as they picked out their animals, stuffed and fluffed them, and then picked out the outfits. All the animals were decked out in girlie shirts and skirts and fuzzy slippers and rhinestones except for my youngest nieces monkey. Her monkey was decked out in overalls and cowboy boots and hat. (of course the boots were pink!) I enjoyed my time with them.

After that it was lunch at Chili's. Yummy. I came home and put dinner in the crock pot. (as I said yesterday the person who invented the slow cooker deserves a kiss!) Tonights dinner a la' Dawn was another great recipe...pork chops in a tomato/brown sugar sauce. How can one go wrong with brown sugar? I took those out and they were so tender. Mmmm.... I know I've been talking about food lately. Sorry. It's only because I'm reading a lot of cookbooks and I get all these new ideas. Hey, my family can only benefit from this, right? My mother in law gave me a subscription to The Taste of Home magazine. I love it. I made their home made hot cocoa recipe. It is delicious. Great for these cold evenings.

Next, I had to go to the library. My book was WAY over due. Opps. I took Breanna and Kendrick with me. Hey, did you know that the library is closed on Friday? I didn't. Opps again. I put my book in the book deposit drawer anyway. I'll pay my fine later. I hope the librarians don't come after me in the meantime. I hope my picture doesn't go up on the bulletin board at the library as a delinquent book returner. I don't want a record.

After that was a stop by McKay's Used Books. It is a huge warehouse. I could stay there for a while. Breanna got several books to read and some computer programming books. Kendrick got some Star Wars books and I picked up this really good book about ADHD. It was written by a man who is ADHD himself. From what I've skimmed of it so far, it looks like it will be a good book.

Finally, Scott and I went to the mall. He got me a new cell phone. Now, I am not a cell phone junkie nor do I need for my phone to do everything but take my bath for me. BUT I did need a new phone. I'm telling the truth. My old one had cracked and the hinge broke. My flip phone was literally hanging on by a thread. It was pretty funny when I answered my phone and the bottom half was sort of, uhh...... just hanging there. (as the guy was selling us the phone he was talking about his phone that he used to talk to people, an MP3 to listen to his music, email/text, and a GPS etc.etc. I was thinking to myself, "my how things have changed. When I was at growing up at home we had a rotary dial phone in the kitchen. We could carry the phone with us, only because we had an extra long phone cord. We actually used the phone to talk to people, and what's even funnier is that, that is the only thing the phone did! Actually use the phone just to talk to people. That is so yesterday!" )

We went to Wal-mart to return some jeans and then stopped and got some coffee at our favorite coffee spot and then back home. We finished our evening with several games of Boggle of which I lost all of them. Scott laughed at me, why I put up with this mental abuse I will never know. haha.

So many holiday treats...I can relate!

Rambling On

First thoughts as I sit down to write.... Fix it and Forget It Cookbook is GREAT!! I've mentioned before that I love slow cookers. I would kiss whoever invented them. My crock pots are filled right now with a pot roast and another one has creamy potatoes. Yum. It smells delicious. Hey, by the way, I thought I'd share with you that last night I used the super duper Kitchen Aid mixer when I made my "made from scratch" cookies. Chocolate Fudge cookies if that gives you any clue. Chocolate. Chocolate. Chocolate. On my behalf I would like to say that I am trying to get rid of all the extra holiday ingredients that I had left over from the month of December. That is my story and I'm sticking to it. I liked the mixer. It did all the work for me, which of course is a huge plus in my book.

This morning I took Kendrick to the orthodontist. Now, normally I am so organized. Really. Anyone who knows me knows this to be true. I hardly go anywhere without my Daytimer/Organizer book. I was so on it this morning! Kendrick and I were up and out the door. We drove all the way to the orthodontist office--got mostly green lights--We were going to be 10 minutes early. I was so proud. I was patting us on the back. Then Kendrick attempted to open the door to the office. It was locked. Then I remembered!! The orthodontist had moved over the Christmas holidays. I had totally forgotten. Well, I was still determined that we were going to be on time. Resembling the Lone Ranger and Tonto, Kendrick and I jumped back into the car and did a big U-turn in the parking lot, kicking up some dust as we sped off to the new office. I am proud to say that I made it to the new office, and had us walking through the door RIGHT ON TIME. Now is that good or what? Kendrick had a good visit as his mother sat smugly outside in the waiting room.

After the orthodontist we went by Wal-mart. I figured as the mom I should probably buy some food and feed my family. I suppose that is kind of expected. After all they do need to eat. I guess the leftover salsa and cheese in the back of the refrigerator probably wouldn't make that great of a meal. I wonder how long that has been there? It doesn't have anything growing on it. Yet. Hmmm......I bet I could make a pretty good dip out of that. I think I'll throw it in the crock pot....... Just kidding. Maybe.

Just What I Needed

My sister gave me a moms devotional book for Christmas. I have enjoyed reading it, as it is very practical to life's situations. Today's verse is from Galations 6:9 "Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up." That verse really spoke to me this morning. I know that those of you that are moms can relate. The kids are on break from school, they are hyped up on sugar from too many holiday sweets, they are not on their normal schedule, and they are making a mess of the house. They are messy, loud, and on my last nerve. I love them but they are driving me crazy!!

Don't give up. One day I will reap a harvest. Thank you Lord for the wonderful opportunity to be a mom. Thank you for the time I have with my children. Thank you for the chance You have given me to make a positive difference in their lives. They don't always appreciate me or the multitude of things I do for them. Sometimes they gripe when I require them to follow through on a chore. But I know they are glad that I am here. I know they love me. When I get frustrated I need to remember this verse. I need to recite this verse. I need to hold this verse in my heart. One day my children will be grown and I will wonder where the time went...

Happy New Year!

2008. Can you believe it? Where does the time go? I wonder what events will happen this year? I know 2008 will be a busy year for my family.

Last night we watched the New Years show on FOX. I know some people think it would be neat to be in Times Square for New Years Eve. To each his own. I for one like the warm and cozy comfort of my house. Spoiled? Maybe. At least my toes weren't cold and my ears weren't freezing. One guy said that once people were corralled into the gated areas in Times Square they weren't allowed to even leave to go to the bathroom. ( I guess security reasons.) That would have been it for me. God gave me a bladder the size of a pea. I would have never made it. haha

I'm not going to do much today. I feel lazy. Although, I really do want to try out that new super duper mixer Scott got me for Christmas...maybe make some cookies from scratch. (No. My friends Betty Crocker and Duncan Hines will not be helping me!) Yea, like I need anymore cookies. How come everything good in life has to be fattening? Why can't carrots and lettuce be loaded with calories? I wouldn't mind abstaining from those.