In the Midst of it all. . .

Well folks Sammie and I are in Chicago. I have just a short minute to post here. It's been an amazing opportunity to meet my cybersisters from WCW in real life. I'm afraid words just don't do it justice at all. I'll have some pictures later in the week when we get back.

I wanted to let you know about this morning. I along with another woman (Brenda) organized a devotional in lieu of church. The hotel was kind enough to provide a meeting room for us free of charge. Is that cool or what? Now, I'm not sure what I expected, but I certainly underestimated God. Duh!! Why do I do that?

God showed up in a mighty way. As some of you southern bloggers might say, I'd like to take a moment to just "brag" on Him!! With such a diverse group of women all from different faith traditions God provided just the perfect vehicles to show His love for us. Oh my goodness!! I wish y'all could have been here. Through song, reading of the Word, and testimony the Holy Spirit was moving BIG time!! There was no church, no choir, no praise team, no sermon, no microphones, no pulpit but suffice it to say it was a truly extraordinary spiritual experience. Lives were changed in a short amount of time!!

So thank you all who have been praying for me and for Sammie. This has been a wonderful trip so far and it's not over yet!

Woo hoo!! Glory!! God is good (all the time)! (I'll just have to let the spirit fill in the rest of the explatives; words escape me).

We're out of here. . . .

Sammie and I are on the road to Chicago. Please keep us in your prayers for safe travel. Sammie's going to be testing her wings and "driving" most of the way. On second thought, pray for me!!!! (to remain calm).

I'm not sure how much access I'll have to the internet, so this may be the last post until we get back.

I'm excited!!! Chicago here we come!!!!

Grateful Journal 7/25

*****************I LOVE UGGs even in the summer!!****************

Today I'm grateful for the following:
~My last time teaching until January!! I'm so ready of my sabbatical
~My Wednesday night class. I'll miss them. . . would hang out with them even if they weren't my students.
~Good, deep sleep.
~Watching Payton play by herself (too funny)
~Late dinner (appetizers) at Applebee's--half price
~Sammie driving home today.
~Good persuasive presentations tonight in class.
~Talking to my mom and dad on the phone.
~Helping Andrew write his bio for The Music Man
~My pink UGGS (great on my tired feet)
~New comments on my blog.
~Sammie helping me carry in equipment to class.
~We leave tomorrow for Chicago.
~Matthew finally watching the David Crowder Band video.
~Pain relief--Hallelujah!!
~Reading some new blogs today.

Grateful Journal 7/24

Today I'm grateful for the following:
~A good night's sleep (first one in a couple of days!)
~Payton excitement when I came home tonight from class
~My LAST Tuesday night class for the summer. Woo Hoo!!!
~Buying pizza for my class tonight; they're a good group. I'll miss them
~Sammie helping me out with class tonight.
~A power nap.
~Wearing my new pants.
~Cool weather (for St. Louis)
~A call from Keith Q. at FBU
~New comments on my blog!! Yea!
~My blog friend Jean; she's been so helpful.
~Discovering new possibilities for Sammie's homeschooling.
~Sammie driving home from FBU tonight through St. Louis traffic.
~Watching late night tv (and unwinding)
~Forgiveness from my friend, Anita (I missed our call time today)
~Coordinating pick up times with Cath for the Chicago trip.
~Finding the remaining boas for the trip/party
~God's provision; I'm constantly amazed at how He provides.
~New friendship from the Internet.
~Getting the opportunity to meet my Internet friends from WCW--counting down the days until Chicago.
~My black patent leather purse
~Flax seed waffles for breakfast.

Homeschooling Sammie

Okay, today has been a big day for us. You see we decided to homeschool Sammie, our almost 16 yr old daughter. Actually, I know very little about homeschooling. My brief stint of homeschooling included Matthew's Freshman year in high school using A Beka Academy (DVD curriculum). When Matthew decided to attend the public high school his sophmore year, our school district refused to accept the year of homeschooling. After a couple of years (and experience with Matthew) the "new" principal agreed in his case to accept the non-religion course work (PTL!). Fair enough. I thought we were done with homeschooling. No doing, though.

Some background is in order. All three kids attended a private Christian school through 8th grade. Unfortunately, in our area, there really isn't a Christian high school alternative. Thus our "homeschooling" Matthew for his first year of high school. Since that time, all three kids have attended the public high school. It's been a BIG adjustment (I could write bunches here, but that's another post!)

Unfortunately for Sammie, it hasn't been an easy experience. Sammie suffers from periodic severe migraines. Last year she was hospitalized three times in Children's Hospital in St. Louis for migraines. Her disability causes her to miss class frequently. The public school does NOT like this, even though her make-up work is of superior quality. We've talked to EVERYONE in any authority--principal, superintendent, school board. . as well as disability attorneys and the State of Illinois. It's been a very complicated venture--one that has NOT benefited Sammie and in fact has done immeasurable damage to her self-concept.

Thus, after much prayer and consideration (and crying out to the LORD) we've decided to home school Sammie for the remainder of high school. While I'm generally not in favor of homeschooling during the high school years, it's clear that this is where the LORD is leading us. I'm not sure what curriculum we'll use or how we'll approach it. I just know that the DECISION was made today!

So, we really covet your prayers right now. We're stepping out in faith on this one, folks. And, if you have experience homeschooling, I'd love to hear from you. This is all new territory for us. I know, however, that God has a plan for Sammie. We're just trying to be obedient and follow his lead. In the meantime would you please, please, please pray for us??

Grateful Journal 7/23

*************I think there will be STARBUCK'S in Heaven*************

Today I'm grateful for the following:
~A good doctor's visit
~Payton's vet visit--annual check up.
~Sammie driving to South County.
~Starbucks!!
~Finding boas for our Chicago trip (for all the women we'll be meeting)
~Wearing my Finn comfort sandles
~Washing my hair with Moonlight Path (bath and body works) shampoo.
~Deciding to homeschool Sammie (BIG DECISION!!!); God's clear leading on this.
~Using Payton's new Celtic knot leash.
~A power nap
~An email from Roseyred at WCW
~Planning for the Chicago trip.
~Comments on my blog!! I'm becoming part of the blogging community.
~Reading AJ's post and commenting.
~Sammie babysitting for Amy J.
~Matthew driving Sammie to babysit
~Andrew practicing for The Music Man
~Finding shoes for Andrew's hard to fit feet at Shoe Carnival (on clearance no less!!)
~Bagel from St. Louis Bread Company for Breakfast.
~Looking for Bibles at Family Christian bookstore.
~Bill and I meeting with the high school guidance counselor.

Grateful Journal 7/22

Today I'm grateful for the following:
~Making it to church on time!
~Pastor Ray's sermon on the Catholic church/Pope (very interesting)
~Patty sitting with me in church.
~Seeing Patty's new car
~Finding Andrew's costume for The Music Man at the resell shop (very inexpensive!!)
~Buying Payton a new Celtic knot leash (you have to see it!)
~Matthew and Andrew laughing together.
~Dinner alone with my hubby!!
~Ice cream from Dairy Queen--a real treat.
~Catching up on my blog reading.
~Worship time today.
~Coffee Joe
~Payton submitting after being "aggressive"
~Laughing with Julie at church.
~Coffee from the coffee bar at church.
~Barb complimenting me on my hair (and I didn't even wash it this morning).
~Finding brown, patent leather peep-toed pumps (totally yummy)
~Listening to praise and worship music on the computer.
~My beat-up, old (wonderful), comfy Bible
~Listening to the end of Maximum Ride.

Grateful Journal 7/21

What do you think of this new avatar for Sammie? She's not sure she likes it. Make a comment and tell us what you think.

Today I'm grateful for the following:
~Designing a new WCW avatar for Sammie aka "SuperChick"
~Getting out of bed when I didn't feel well.
~A late breakfast with Sammie at Einstein's Bagels
~Taking a long afternoon nap (I didn't sleep well last night)
~Reading Sammie's Theatre Paper--She got an A-
~Seeing Michael Sullivan, although briefly
~Bill coming home tonight after working all day
~Matthew driving to Waterloo to pick up Pizza Hut for us.
~Payton making funny faces.
~Talking to my Dad on the phone.
~Suzi's post on my facebook.
~Decreasing time until the Chicago trip.
~Sammie and Andrew doing research on Andrew's costume for Music Man.
~Water Joe
~My comfy jeans
~My leftover piece of Godiva Cheesecake
~Vicodin for pain.
~Opportunities to share my faith.

Hairspray the Movie

You can watch the trailer for Hairspray above. Just click on the player.

Yesterday Sammie and I saw Hairspray on it's opening day. Now usually, I stay away from opening days of highly promoted films. I don't particularly like crowds. This, however, was a compromise. We went to a matinee. So the crowd factor was lower.

So much publicity has surrounded hairspray, primarily the role of Edna played by John Travolta in drag. I'm not sure what I expected, but surely not a "believable" performance. After all, it was John Travolta of "Saturday Night Fever" fame.

Much to my surprise, Travolta's performance was very engaging. He made the character of Enda come to life and didn't simply present her as a caricature--something that was difficult to do considering his well known male fame.

Hairspray centers around the theme of diversity or lack thereof in the early 1960's in Baltimore. Set in a time very different that 2007, the racial equality is simply nonexistent. The prejudice slaps the view in the face from the get go.

Tracy, the main character played by newcomer Nikki Blonsky is the champion of equality, proclaiming the unthinkable when asked what her first act would be if she were President broadly states, "I'd make every day Negro day!" Now while the language of this may be dated and even offensive to some, the concept is unthinkable coming from a white girl in the early 60s. But Tracy is no ordinary character. She captures the audience's attention from the beginning with her bubbling enthusiasm for life. So, it's to the movie's credit that Tracy becomes the agent for change.

Without giving away any of the ending, suffice it to say that good does triumph over "evil," and the least do become the most. Hum. . . there's something very Biblical about that isn't there?

So, go see Hairspray and enjoy. It's a thoroughly entertaining film with an excellent message and let me know what you think about it. Can't wait to hear what you've got to say!

Grateful Journal 7/20

Today I'm grateful for the following:
~My new layout/design for this blog!! (What do you think??)
~Comments from two new blogging friends.
~Lunch with Barb and Ray
~Talking with Ray, although briefly about last Sunday--my worship time.
~Sammie passing her drivers test (watch out!!)
~Coffee from McDonalds for breakfast.
~Seeing Hairspray the Movie with Sammie
~A beautiful day that started off in the 60's
~Wearing my blue UGGs to the movie
~Barb commenting that I look like I lost weight!
~Payton getting a pedicure.
~Talking to Dr. Bennis about her sister.
~Andrew and Matthew excited about the new Harry Potter book coming out.
~Ray and Barb mentioning they read my blog.
~Selecting readings from "Every Day I Pray."
~Payton riding in the car.
~Sammie babysitting for Amy J.
~Popcorn and Icees for me and Sammie at the movie.
~Temporary pain relief.
~Sammie coming home early from babysitting.
~Laughing about "tots"
~Listeing to my Ipod.
~The music in Hairspray (love it!!)--I'm such a "MUSICAL" geek.
~Payton's scrunchy face.
~Missing an uncomfortable encounter at the Vet (PTL).
~A funny e-card from Cathy.
~Sammie laying on my lap.

Music, Music, Music!!!

Okay, I'm a bit giddy right now. For those of you who know me, you know music is an essential part of who I am. At one point in my life I thought music would be my career. Even though I've chosen another career path, I still love music. When I have a free moment you'll often find me listening to my Ipod. Did I mention I LOVE music? Here's why I'm so excited. I found a wonderful music player to add to this blog. Check it out over to the right under MY MUSIC. I've created a play list that randomly plays each time you come to the site. Isn't that cool???? So, if you've got a couple of minutes to share, click on the play and enjoy some of my "music mix." If you don't like my selections you can always click on music radio (upper left hand corner) and select your own. Regardless, I hope you enjoy!! So do you like it or what?? Leave me a comment and let me know what you think.

Grateful Journal 7/19

Today I'm grateful for the following:
~Celebrating my mom's birthday.
~Reading blogs that strenthened my faith.
~Creating a music mix playlist and loading it on my blog.
~Listening to my praise and worship music on my Ipod.
~Making new friends through this blog!
~Finding out Tracey's mom's birthday is also today.
~Drinking spearmint flavored water (really refreshing)
~Another great night of sleep, including a lazy morning.
~A wondeful salad for dinner tonight.
~Starbucks coffee.
~Laughing with the kids.
~Taking Sammie to get her hair highlighted.
~E-mail correspondance with Cathy at FBU.
~Talking to Amy J. on the phone tonight.
~Seeing Sammie smile.
~Buying "Your Captivating Heart" I can't wait to read it.
~Avoiding driving in the bad rain storm.
~Talking with Sammie about driving.
~Watching Andrew on the computer.
~Acting goofy and making Sammie laugh.
~Talking to my mom on the phone tonight.
~Listening to the kids wish Grandma "Happy Birthday"
~Payton barking "Happy Birthday" to my mom.
~Feeling God's love wash over me.
~Talking to Ralph at the Christian bookstore.
~An e-mail from Nancy.

Happy Birthday Mom!

Today's my mom's 76th birthday. And I'm celebrating from afar. It's difficult not living in the same area as my parents. Although Chicago isn't that far from St. Louis, it's not the same as living close.

My mom is an amazing woman. Having grown up in a different time, she rose above her circumstances and did the unthinkable and moved away from her hometown of Marion IL to the big city--Chicago! I've always admired her strength and courage to forge a new home in a strange city.

So today, I'm celebrating her birth. She's given me so much--my light skin, blonde hair, intelligence and quirky way of viewing the world. Most of all, however, she's given me a solid foundation of faith. My mom loves Jesus, no doubt about it.

Happy Birthday, Mom. I love you.

Your Baby Girl,
~Cheryl

What was He thinking?

Are there questions you want to ask God when you get to Heaven? I've got a bunch. Some serious, some practical, and some just plain bizarre.

I talked to my mom on the phone tonight. Somehow the topic turned to squirrels. My mom loves watching them in the back yard as they run and climb all over. She's convinced that they "interact" with the birds. I think my mom may need a new eye exam.

Squirrels, yuck! I just don't like them. At distance they look like cute little animals with fuzzy tails. Up close, however, I can't seem to shake their resemblance to rats--big, fat, fuzzy tailed rats! Eww!! Did I mention I don't like them?

I've always liked the David Crowder Band. Of course their music is great, but there's something more to them I just haven't been able to put my finger on. Tonight I've discovered what that "something" is. David Crowder does NOT like squirrels either. The video above was David's response to his own "squirrel encounter." It's the band's first music video. Yes, it's wonderful to find like-minded individuals.

So just what was God thinking when He created squirrels? Honestly, I have no idea. I guess I'll just have to add it to the list!

Grateful Journal 7/17

Today I'm grateful for the following:
~Watching Payton on Sammie's pillow
~My Wednesday night class; they're such a great group!
~A good night's sleep (two in a row now!!)
~Listening to Maximum Ride in the car.
~Talking with Matthew about his Dev. Psych on-line class
~Listening to Praise and Worship music on my Ipod.
~Buying tickets to Hairspray
~Managing all the equipment tonight and making it "work."
~Andrew carrying in my briefcase.
~Watching late night tv
~Comments on my blog yesterday.
~E-mail from a new blogging friend.
~Teaching at FBU's South County location.
~Iced coffee from Starbucks.
~Talking with Brenda and planning the Sunday morning devotional
~An e-mail from Ruth catching me up; I've missed her.
~Several supportive e-mails from friends about this blog.
~Payton protecting us from birds (or at least she thinks so)
~Talking with my mom tonight.

Finding God in The Cheesecake Factory

It's funny just where God decides to make his presence known. It can happen at the most unusual places. Today, I found God in the middle of The Cheesecake Factory.

Sammie and I headed to The Cheesecake Factory at 10:30 pm after my night class. Since it was late and the restaurant was only open until 11 pm, I thought we'd be the only ones there. After we had been there only a couple of minutes, much to my surpise (and that of the workers), a HUGE party came in.

Needless to say, our attention was immediately focused on the "intruders" (I sensed that "term" from the workers, tee hee). They were very dressed up--suits and ties for the men, dresses for the women. Sammie and I immediately began trying to guess where they were from--coming from a wedding, funeral, party, work. . the list goes on.

Now, I don't know if this is quite the "proper" thing to do in this case, but Sammie and I did a bit of "listening." Actually, we couldn't help it. The group was quite boistorous. Our fellow Cheesecake Factory patrons were NOT from St. Louis. They had thick southern accents. Hum. . the mystery deepened!

And just in the midst of our guessing game, came God! The conversations were about church, praise and worship, new worship songs. One man even sang (although poorly) as he immitated a fellow church goer. Another man introduced the pastor to a friend. Now I'm not quite sure where they were from, but they definitely were a group of fellow believers.

About this time our cheesecake came. And I've got to say. God showed up again. As Sammie and I traded bites of our Cheesecake, Sammie remarked, "This Cheescake takes like Heaven in my mouth!" She was right. It was "heavenly."

As we left the restaurant, I said a silent prayer. "Thank you Lord, for making your presence known to us. Thank you for these Godstops. Thank you for never ever leaving us alone. And thank you for creating Godiva Chocolate Cheesecake!"

All this and cheesecake too. God is good!

Grateful Journal 7/17

Today I'm grateful for the following:
~Sammie going with me to FBU tonight
~Making it through my public speaking class (17 informative speeches!!)
~My new headband
~Talking to Elizabeth Fogt
~Laughing with Jason and Ben
~Watching Jason talk to Sammie about school
~Seeing Nancy tonight before class
~Picking up our Muny tickets to "Joseph and the Amazing Technocolor Dreamcoat"
~Finally, getting into my FBU e-mail.
~Payton's excitement when we came home tonight.
~Watching Payton chow down on her bone.
~Going to the Cheesecake Factory after class with Sammie.
~Sammie driving home through downtown St. Louis.
~Migraine relief from Maxalt
~PM's from Inky and Whodat on the WCW site
~Cold Gatorade
~Getting an e-mail from Barb about missing church
~Sammie's help carrying the video equipment
~Wearing a cool, summer skirt to class (not worrying about how "white" my legs are)
~Godiva Chocolate Cheesecake (need I say more)
~Decaf coffee
~A good night's sleep (first in a while)
~Watching the 700 club
~Getting a comment from a fellow blogger on my blog; I LOVE connecting with new folks!!
~God's never ending love.
~Finding God in The Cheesecake Factory

My baby's growing up!

Can you believe it? My baby's growing up. In less than two weeks she'll be 16. Oh my goodness where did the time go? Why am I pondering all of this right now? I think it had something to with her driving into St. Louis County tonight--her first time on the interstate. Now, I should have been scared (very scared)!! Instead, I found myself lamenting the passage of time. Just where did it all go? It seems like just yesterday I was bringing home this little bundle of "pink" from the hospital. Now, my little girl is driving. I should be used to this. Sammie's not my first child--not the first to drive. Yet, I found myself in the same position I did on many of her other firsts like the first day or Kindergarten--in "awe" and a bit regretful of the time slipping by so fast. I wonder if this in normal? I wonder if God views us in the same way--in "awe" as we grow, but missing the earlier time of innocence? Guess that's another one I'll add to the list of questions for when I get to Heaven. Until then, I'm going to enjoy every moment with my little girl, Sammie. I love you Baby Girl!!!

Grateful Journal 7/16

Today I'm grateful for the following:
~Making contact with other Christian blogging women
~Two comments on my blog!! Woo Hoo!!
~Praise and Worship Music that stirs the Spririt within me.
~Talking to my friend, Anita in Canada today for free; I'm lovin' free computer "talk".
~Reading Leigh's blog about "negative" blogs--she made me think.
~Payton riding in car with me.
~The power coming back on (it was "off" for 4 hours today).
~Air conditioning
~Wearing my Uggs and PJ's
~Thermacare for my back.
~Sammie's driving in St. Louis county.
~Pizza from Fortell's Pizza Den
~Organic yogurt with granola-YUM!!
~Water Joe
~My comfy jeans.
~Talking to my dad on the phone tonight.
~Payton's enthusiasm as I walk through the door.
~My 1 year anniversary on WCW.
~Talking to Anita about my faith and integrating the "skills" we learned at WWW.
~Finding out Megg (from Starting Over) will be in Chicago with us!!
~Pain relief
~Re-reading "Believing God"
~Finding a cheap Ipod player/charger/clock at Marshall's.
~Jelly Belly's

Grateful Journal 7/15

Okay, I have to come clean. We didn't go to church today. Now I could give you a good "excuse" but that's all it would be. Simply, we didn't have it "together" this morning. Luckily, none of us were "serving" in any capacity this Sunday. What's even more amazing is that my own private worship time was absolutely amazing! I got to meet Christ face-to-face and He was so sweet and tender with me. I just wanted to shout for joy. So, while I don't advocate missing church, I can testify that today was a truly worshipful day for me.

Today I'm grateful for the following:
~God's mercy and grace.
~My ability to approach the throne of God whenever I want!
~Grocery shopping (can't believe I'm saying this) at Whole Foods with the family.
~Bill NOT complaining about the grocery bill (miracles do happen. . tee hee)
~Going to Borders tonight.
~Listening to my Ipod.
~Finding the AJ article about the proposal.
~Finally, figuring out my blog link WASN'T showing. Duh!
~Reading some other blogs.
~Sammie and Matthew teasing each other in the car.
~Sammie and Andrew willing going to youth group tonight, even though neither one really wanted to.
~Watching Sammie drive.
~Bill and Matthew fixing the car (a TRUE miracle).
~Finding the soundtrack to Hairspray on sale.
~Reading all the posts on WCW after having been gone for a week.
~Getting the opportunity to lead the Sunday devotional/worship during the Chicago trip.
~Blueberry waffles for lunch! (yummy)
~Pain relief this morning.
~Watching Matthew grow into an adult.
~Very intimate worship time alone with my Savior.
~Shared laughter with Bill
~Wearing my Finn Comfort sandals (my feet were happy).
~Thinking about the Chicago trip.
~The "natural" opportunities to share my faith (God is so good!)
~Starbucks!! Starbucks!! Starbucks!! (oops, I think I might have had a tad too much).

The Proposal (continued)

Robert and Keisha during "The Proposal"

Check out the link below. It's to a story on the slide show I posted. It explains the proposal in detail and the "internet" exposure it has received. One other note: the song that's playing in the background of the slide show is one of my new favorites from Shekinah Glory Ministry Live, "How Deeply I Need You." Oh my goodness! I love that song!

proposal story

Passionate Obsession

One of my obsessions is praise and worship music. Having participated on praise teams on and off for the past 10+ years, I've amassed a HUGE collection of Praise and Worship CDs and music. I continue, however to come back to several CDs over and over again. One such CD is Dennis Jernigan's "I Surrender." This clip from you tube shows just the last minute of Jernigan singing "Passionate Obsession" from the CD. It speaks to God's obsession to know us more. What a concept! My mind just can't take it all in. Enjoy the clip and think of your Father singing it over you! You are his Passionate Obsession!

Grateful Journal 7/14

Today I'm grateful for the following:
~Watching Payton sleep in her bed
~Matthew picking up Sammie from class.
~Sammie completed her research paper.
~Sleeping in late
~Leftover popcorn shrimp for lunch.
~Watching The Last Mimzy with Bill and Sammie
~Sammie laying on my shoulder.
~Pizza hut for dinner . . and Bill picked it up!
~Yogurt from Whole Foods
~Reading People Magazine.
~Catching up on blog reading.
~Matthew calling to let me know he was going to be in late.
~Bill working today and taking Sammie into class on the way.
~Listening to praise and worship music,
~My new favorite song "How Deeply I Need You" from Shekinah Glory Live (a great CD!!)
~Mountain Dew with lots of ice.
~A lazy day at home.
~Taking care of myself when I needed it.
~My pink UGGs
~Reading about the number of women who accepted Christ at the WOF preconference in DC
~Connecting with Christ through the Holy Spirit
~Praying (that I can come before the throne of God).
~Michael Sullivan's teaching skills (Sammie's theatre class).
~Finding some information on homeschooling.
~Watching Payton eat some ice.
~Recognizing the number of blessings in my life
~Refocusing my thinking

Grateful Journal 7/13

Today I'm grateful for the following:
~Shopping at Walmart with Bill
~Bill taking the day off from work
~Finding a lost sunglasses case
~Getting out of bed even though I wasn't feeling great
~Read the LONG set of comments on the LPM blog--very interesting
~Time alone in the evening
~Kids and Bill going to the movies together.
~Turkey platter from Bully's
~AM Gatorade
~Reading a couple of magazines
~My jeans are loose (even the tight ones)
~Talking to my Mom and Dad on the phone
~Getting tickets ordered for The Music Man
~Sammie working on her paper
~Finding journal articles for Sammie
~Sleep (finally)
~Watching the 20/20 special on "Hell"
~Listening to my Ipod
~Finding a navy blue sweater I've wanted marked down to $5 (woo hoo!)
~Figuring out how to place prayer requests at the side of my blog.

Midnight Madness

If you could have been a fly on the wall last night, I think you would have laughed--deep, big belly laughs. You see Payton our lovable pup got a bath. Why you might ask? Well, suffice it to say that it that is was yours truly's idea. Payton had been biting at her front legs all night and had developed a new, weird behavior of biting into the couch. Bill in his infinite wisdom suggested that she might have gotten something on her when she was outside. Well, all kids of images races through my brain--everything from fleas to some type of plant irritant. Needless to say, I decided then and there she had to have a bath. Now I don't know if you've ever tried to give a dog a bath, but this is not easy task, not under the best of circumstances. Add in this was way past midnight and I was the only one willing to do the task. With lots of water, soap and only a couple attempts of escape, I managed to accomplish the task with only half on the water getting on the floor!! The trickiest task was attempting (notice the word choice here) to get Payton dry. Two towels later, I gave up. She would just have to air dry in our air conditioned house. I thought, "Can a dog get a cold from being cold?" This is one bit of knowledge my mother forgot to teach me. So, I took a deep breath at let Payton go. What ensued next was truly comical, as if up to this point weren't bad enough. Off she runs wet fur flapping, running around the living room wanting to play. I decided that sleep would not be easy for me with Payton in this current frenzy, so I took my pillow and blanket and sat on the couch. And. . . Payton played, and played, and played. I tried to avoid her gaze, thinking if I didn't make eye contact she'd get tired faster. Not to be--nope! At one point she started barking and growling at a pile of dirty clothes. With repeated attempts to calm her unsuccessful, I got up to look at the clothes, ready to convince her to stop barking. Low and behold, sitting on top of the pile of clothes was her toy. She must have "flipped" it up there when she was playing. Lack of sleep had gotten to me at this point and I collapsed in laughter. If it hadn't been so late, I would have looked for the hidden camera. Content with her toy, Payton climbed up on the couch, snuggled down by my pillow and promptly fell asleep. What a sight!! As for me. . . I'm still sleep deprived and just a little "punchy." But what else would you expect from a round of midnight madness? And I thought all this was over now that my kids are teens. Silly me!

Grateful Journal 7/12

Well this has just been one of the most interesting days. I just got back from having my hair done (nothing better than highlights and a cut. Yes, I'm "gorgeous" again. . at least I don't look as old (tee hee. . bye, bye gray hair). My hair is nice and straight now. Unfortunately, it will only stay straight for a bit. Once the humidity hits back comes the curls/waves. Argh!! And yes I have tried Frizz-Ease!

I come home to Sammie who's in pain. She got her top set of braces on today. The poor kid. She's wanted this so much and is going through lots of pain to get her teeth straight. It hurts me to see her this way--trying to be tough but knowing she's in pain. I've spent the rest of the day as "taxi" service--to pick up Sammie and take Andrew to practice TWICE. While I know he love performing, I'll be glad when the production of the MUSIC MAN is up and over! In the meantime, Matthew is at Fontbonne tonight for class. He cut his hand at work on Tuesday evening and will go back to work for the first time Friday. He's taking an antibiotic for the cuts on his hand. Say a prayer or two for him tomorrow.

Also, I just found out my best friend Melissa will be out of a job soon. Since the household depends on her income, it's essential she find work soon. So keep Melissa in prayer too. I'm sure God has the perfect job out there for her. Lifting it up to Him who can do amazing things! Can't wait to see Him move on this one.

What's all this leading up to?? My grateful journal, of course. I'm just a bit "wordy" today. So without any further ado:

Today I'm grateful for the following:
-Getting my hair done--Can you say, "I feel pretty. . ."
-Taking time to read some blogs today
-Krispy Kreme donuts (just brought some home after getting my hair done)
-Hot coffee and a bagel for brunch.
-My comfy Finn comfort clogs
-Talking to Melissa about her job
-Cold bottled water
-Buying a headset for my laptop at Best Buy.
-Listening to my Ipod
-E-mail from a friend with an awesome engagement slide show (check my post below this one for the link to that site).
-God's grace and mercy which is new every morning.
-The circle of Christian women I've met on-line.
-Relaxing at home (nothing better. . .than home sweet home)
-Payton--riding in the car during "taxi" service today.
-Making hair appointments for Sammie and Andrew.
-Laura, my hairstylist and her soon-to-be daughter.

Oh My Goodness!!

It seems like I've been using this phrase over and over again during the past week. Each day the LORD brings new suprises to bless me into my life. Today I received an email from a friend that included a link to a truly wonderful marriage proposal. Here's the email (with link at the bottom). I hope you're a blessed as I was by reading it. . (the link my take a few moments to load, but it's worth the wait). Oh and. . .you'll probably need some kleenex!

Crazy for Christ,
Cheryl
*********************************************

This guy Rob said God was unfolding a vision in his life over the
span of about a year and then he put faith to feet and made it
happen. Rob and Keisha dated for about 4 years. And he knew that she
was the one...but he had to save up for all that God had prompted
him to do for her. So in short what you are about to see happen on
April 28th....he rented out 10 rooms in the Ritz Carlton in buckhead
and invited about 50-60 people to be there for this special
night...Keisha had to go from room to room and in each room were
people who were special to them....his boys...her girls...her Bible
Study group....his parents...her parents.., etc., and everybody in
each room had questions that she had to answer to be able to move to
the next room and before she left each room the people there would
pray over her....so you have to watch each room to see how that
goes...! he chose roses because Keisha aunt who passed suddenly
loved roses and he bought some of the dipped in gold because of the
stories in the Bible about Solomon and how everything was dipped in
gold and the song that you hear playing in the background was the
same song that was played at Keisha aunts funeral, she was like a
second mom to Keisha.

When Rob was asked what he was thinking and how it felt...he said
that he was kicking and screaming all the way; not because he did
not love Keisha and want to marry her....but because of the time,
money, and stress that was spent doing this. Rob, put his house up
for rent and saved for her ring and this night and he did it out of
obedience...

I have spent the past year of my life piecing together a vision
given to me by God. On April 28th, 2007 that vision was fulfilled.
My labor of love for the woman I love.
"God Is Love...The Proposal"
Robert Gray, Jr.

http://www.spelhouse.com/gray/
(you may have to copy and paste this URL into your browser; I'm still learning this "blog" stuff)

Grateful Journal 7/11

Yum, yum!! Is there anything better than Starbuck's Coffee?

Okay, it's been a couple of days since I posted. I've been under the weather still. Regardless, there are many blessings in my life.

Today I'm grateful for the following:
-Starbucks 2X today!
-Taking Matthew to the doctor's
-Lunch at Red Lobster
-Making it through my class tonight!
-The presentations in class tonight--very interesting and "yummy"
-Washing my hair with bath and body works shampoo
-My Thumper PJ's
-My UGG's
-Renting The Last Mimzy and Three
-A nap this afternoon when I needed it
-Jennifer bringing the camcorder tonight
-Talking with Andrew about the musical
-Bill's thank you for picking up his medication
-Wearing my new black pants
-Payton jumping on my lap so I couldn't leave (too funny)
-Letting my class out early
-Going to St. Louis Bread Company after class.
-Jones cream soda
-Maxalt for my migraine
-Sitting on my couch after work. . "ah, it's nice to be home"
-My student's presentation on meditation
-Changing purses
-Listening to my Ipod
-Melissa picking up and bring home Andrew
-Melissa's friendship

Grateful Journal 7/9

Pictures from the episode of Everybody Loves Raymond that I watched tonight

I'm a little late posting this today. I just woke up after having fallen asleep on the couch. So although this will say July 10, it's actually just after midnight on the 9th. Does that make sense? I hope so. When I migraine, the words don't come out of my head right. I'm sure I'll read this tomorrow and say, "What was I thinking?" Regardless, even though today was a a rough day, I still have many blessings for which to be thankful.

Today I'm grateful for the following:
-Payton curled up on the couch
-Maxalt for my migraine
-Not having to teach today
-Talking to Melissa on the phone-her friendship.
-Melissa bringing Andrew home from practice
-Leftover pizza from Uno's
-Coke
-Driving my car to ICS and back
-Zit cream
-Jan's message of encouragment (and prayer) on facebook
-Bryan's message on thanks on facebook
-Sammie sharing her life with me during a tough time
-Forgiving myself for not being perfect
-Acts of Faith group on facebook
-Watching Everybody Loves Raymond and laughing
-prayer
-sleep
-pain relief
-Anita's comment on my blog yesterday.
-Only 17 days until the Chicago trip
-Peachy's life and strength
-Watching Oprah--even though it was a little to close to home.
-Matthew and Sammie--safe travel tonight during bad weather
-Cake for dessert tonight (what a treat!)

Grateful Journal 7/8

This is Sammie's avatar for WCW. Isn't it cute?

Today I'm grateful for the following:
-sleeping in late (oversleeping), even though we missed church: my body needed it.
-Creating Sammie's avatar for WCW
-Sammie's poetry
-Talking to Anita on yahoo messanger
-Dinner tonight with the family
-Watching The Music Man
-Listening to my Ipod
-Ice cream from Cold Stone
-My kids. . .together at O'Charlie's
-Payton--sleeping on my bed
-Cold bottled water
-Fierce Gatorade
-reading blogs
-Finding the first two seasons of Sliders
-laughter
-Anita's new intention for the university job
-WWW in October; I want to go. . for Anita to go too!!
-Barry Manilow music (I can't believe I'm actually sharing this in public!)
-Reading Psychology Today
-Beth Moore's Praying God's Word Daily
-Denise's Birthday!!
-Only 18 days until the Chicago trip!
-Watching 7th Heaven (and seeing the ending)
-My PJ's and slippers
-Hot pink earphones for my Ipod
-The King of Queens (laughing)
-A day at home
-Comforting Sammie.

Grateful Journal 7/7

Today I'm grateful for the following:
-Reading (finishing) Mandissa's book--It was really, really good!
-Maxalt for my migraine!
-Cold Coke
-Payton sleeping on my bed.
-Bill picking up Sammie from her class.
-Dinner tonight from Bully's
-Sammie charging my Ipod.
-Andrew's cute (shorter) haircut!
-Watching tv tonight with the family.
-Spending the day in my PJ's
-Water Joe.
-Oh's cereal.
-Watching Bridge to Terabithia with Sammie and Payton.
-Haggen Daus Cofee Ice Cream
-Listening to my Ipod.
-Posting on WCW
-PM from Peachy.
-My soft, warm blaket.
-Picture (from Walgreens) of the triplets.

Grateful Journal 7/6

Just what I was looking for. . This CD!!

What a day!! We did some serious shopping this evening hitting: Family Christian Store, Barnes and Noble, Kohl's, TJ Maxx, Target, Costco, Borders and Movie Gallery. All in the course of three hours. Yes, we are speed shoppers!

Today I'm grateful for the following:
-Finding the Shekinah Glory Ministry Live CD I'd been looking for (on sale, too)
-Meeting Bill for dinner at St. Louis Bread Company with the kids.
-Buying Mandissa's book. . can't wait to "dig in"
-Kelly's PM on WCW
-Laughing at the email from Lisa
-Sharing a "tender" moment with Sammie
-Physically making it through the marathon of shopping.
-Relaxing on my nice, soft couch after shopping.
-Sammie loading my new music on my Ipod. Woo hoo. . I'm excited.
-Buying the Alchemist. . can't wait to read it too.
-Having the freedom to "read" stuff that I want during the summer.
-Finding out that KN likes Sammie. . they were childhood buddies.
-Drinking ice cold Water Joe!!
-Listening to Barlow Girls and Music and Lyrics in the car.
-The teller at the bank complimenting me.
-Sleeping in this morning.
-Bath and Body Works shampoo and conditioner.
-Flax seed waffles and hazelnut coffee for breakfast.
-My summer paycheck!
-Another email from Nona.
-Finding "smoothie" flavored Jelly Belly's at TJ Maxx.
-Simpson's PJ's for Matthew.
-Good "hair" day.
-Listening to my Ipod.
-Reading AJ's blog about "blowing chunks"--too funny.
-Payton grooming me
-My Finn Comfort Sandles.
-The necklace my mom gave me.
-Finding the Music Man on DVD for Andrew.
-Reading an article on the benefits of Chocolate on the brain in Psychology Today.
-Prayer!
-Laughter
-A carmel machiotto from Starbucks
-Sharing a piece of Lemon/Raspberry Cheesecake (from the Cheesecake Factory) with Sammie.
-Plans for tomorrow with Sammie after her class.
-The smell of popcorn popping in the microwave (do I sense a theme in these blogs?)

Grateful Journal 7/5

Today has been a lazy, slow to start day. We really didn't kick into gear here until the evening. Thus, although this will post as Friday (it's techically the wee hours of Friday morning), it's still Thursday in my mind.

Today I'm grateful for the following:
-Sammie driving to Waterloo and back in the dark (a first)
-Two comments on yesterday's blog!! (Thanks Anita and Kelly)
-Pizza Hut pizza for dinner.
-Ice on the front lawn in summer.
-Payton riding in the car to Waterloo with us.
-Andrew riging in the back without a peep about his sister's driving.
-Watching "Music and Lyrics" with Sammie
-Reading AJ's blog about the 4th of July.
-Reading David Crowder's blog.
-Watching the first video from DCB--too funny!!
-Ice cold Mountain Dew
-Rock Star Juiced and Organic yogurt with flax seed for breakfast.
-Sammie's post of 30 secrets on her facebook page.
-An e-mail from Nona.
-Hearing from Bryan.
-Therma-care (heat) for my back--feels so-o-o-o-o good.
-Ice from Market Place
-Reading "Acts of Faith" for today on Forgiveness.
-Plans for tomorrow with Andrew and Sammie.
-A good night's sleep complete with "sweet dreams."
-Coordinating rides for the Chicago trip.
-My WCW sisters.
-Wearing my Real Life t-shirt.
-Laughing with Sammie and Andrew.
-Payton's barking to protect us.
-Watching "Malcom in the Middle" on late night tv.
-Watching Bill feed Payton peanut butter--their nightly routine.
-The smell of popcorn popping in the microwave.

Grateful Journal 7/4

Oh my goodness!! This video to David Crowder's "O Prasie Him" is amazing!! I have to give props to the TCM blog (thanks, Travis!) where I discovered this. If this video doesn't get you up and on your feet, praising the Lord, nothing will. Hallelujah! Glory!! and a bunch more superlatives that the Holy Spirit will just have to provide because franky, words fail me (and y'all thought that would NEVER happen.)

Today I'm grateful for the following:
-Time alone at home
-Extended time in worship/prayer/meditation
-Finding the "O Praise Him" video on the TCM blog
-Reading the TCM blog
-Sammie's tenderness with Payton.
-The whole family together at dinner tonight.
-Uno's pizza for dinner. . YUM!!
-Sammie's willingness to compromise at dinner tonight. . although I cut her off.
-Fireworks!
-Remembering our country's beginning
-Those who have served and those who are currently serving in the miltary.
-PM from Kelly today
-Cold bottled water
-Posting and reading posts on WCW today.
-The upcoming Chicago trip!
-God's grace and mercy and for "do-overs."
-Travis Cottrell's music. . . love it, love it, love it!!!
-Listening to my Ipod in the car.
-my family; I'm so blessed to have them
-Bill--working on this 4th of July!
-Andrew and Matthew coming out wearing the same shirt--too funny (Andrew changed shirts)
-Changing some layout features on this blog (figuring out how to do it!)
-Wearing my pink fluffy slippers most of the day today.
-Posting the video on my facebook page (again, figuring out how to do it!)

Grateful Journal 7/3

Check out this new book. It's on my "must read" list.

Okay, this post is a bit late. . . I'm actually posting the morning of the 4th. I was just too exhausted last night to log on and type. Still, I was tremendously blessed yesterday and certainly want to share it with y'all.

Today I'm grateful for the following:
-Making it through class last night even though I wasn't feeling well.
-Solving the "technical" problems in class.
-Sammie's concern for how I was feeling.
-Grape Gatorade!
-Watching the video of my student's 15 month old daughter trying to whistle--Too funny!!
-Sammie reading just for fun.
-Payton sleeping on her back--wish I had a picture to share.
-Wearing a sleeveless shirt (not worrying about how my arms look).
-Catching Anita on line.
-Talking to Anita on the phone; it was so good to hear her voice!!!
-Listening to Iyanla's radio show
-The scripture Iyanla passionately shared and encouraged listeners to use daily.
-Hearing my friend Nona call in to the show--what a surprise!!
-Listening to Maximum Ride (book 3) on CD driving while I was driving today.
-The friendly worker at Jack-in-the-box; how refreshing!!
-Eating Jelly Belly's in the car--YUM!!
-Reading the LPM blog about Mandissa.
-Chating with my students on break.
-Laughter in class tonight.
-Talking with the Security Guard at FBU--his "care" for doing his job.
-Getting all the midterm exams graded before class tonight.
-Seeing Ben, although briefly.
-Tomorrow--a day off for the family.

Grateful Journal 7/2

Well, I officially feel like a princess now (and after all I am the daughter of a King!!). This weekend of pampering and sleeping in late this morning really spoiled me. Yes, I know don't get used to it, right? But you can't blame a girl for trying!!! Needless to say I have much to be thankful for.

Today I'm grateful for the following:
-unexpectedly catching my friend Anita on WCW tongight
-Chatting with Anita. I still can't believe she lives in Canada!!
-Getting an e-mail from Travis. . didn't expect it.
-Possibility of seeing the TCM team in Indy. . that would be cool!!
-The "ministry" this blog has inspired.
-The positive focus on my life.
-Staying forward focused.
-Hearing God (in my heart) loud and clear.
-Watching Payton sleep by my side when I was on my laptop.
-Getting the phone and DSL fixed!! PTL!!!
-Leftovers for dinner; no cooking
-Weeding through e-mail from the weekend.
-Grading my on-line midterm exams in Gender Communication
-Reading AJ's blog and remembering my own kids when they were little.
-Reading the section on despair in "Praying God's Word." Every time I pick up the book a different section speaks to me.
-Loading more music on my Ipod.
-Buying Kelly Clarkson's new CD (haven't listened to it yet, though)
-Possibility of traveling to Chicago over the 4th holiday?
-Kids, kids, kids in the house. . it's busy. . and I love it!!
-Bill's smile today.
-God's grace and mercy which are new every morning (or in my case today afternoon).
-laughing with Sammie.
-being blonde (it explains a lot. . . tee hee!!)
-My pink slippers.
-Talking to Anita about networking. . . drum circle possibility for her?
-Safe travel for Anita.
-Inky's injections/surgery went well.
-Catching the small opportunities for sharing my faith.
-Avanti's bread
-Switching Andrew's screen saver to the puppy picutre. He's going to have a cow!! (tee hee--a mom with a sense of humor. What could be better?)
-Payton's tail; She can wag it so-o-o-o-o fast!
-A day at home.

Grateful Journal 7/1

I'm late in posting this entry. Our DSL as well as our home phone has been down. It's been really frustrating. The DSL would have short bursts of times when it would work. Then it would crash again. I didn't realize how dependent I've become on the computer. The phone, however, I think I could do without!! (y'all know I'm a bit phone phobic. . I just thought it was God's answer to my prayer. . tee hee).

Today (or yesterday at this point) I'm grateful for the following:
-sleeping in my own bed
-scripture, which continues to speak BIG TIME to me.
-my relationship with by hubby, Bill.
-listening to my Ipod.
-Dennis Jernigan's "I Surrender" (can't get enough of this album lately; it's really speaking to my heart)
-Chuck Busch--for calling the kids about the youth group meeting.
-Chinese food for dinner with the WHOLE family.
-Re-reading parts of Rob Bell's "Velvet Elvis."
-Watching "Alias" on late nigh/early morning tv.
-Payton sleeping on the end/foot of my bed.
-Memorial service for Bill's coworker and friend, Vicky Oxly.
-Sammie--holding Bill's hand all through the memorial service--she has such a "tender heart" for those people who are hurting.
-Bill's ability to be vulnerable in front of the kids (and me)
-Vicky's faith right up to the end of her life.
-The LORD's very real presence during the memorial service.
-The old/previous pastor's story about his childhood dog.
-Vicky's love for all animals.
-reading the LPM, TCM and AJ blogs
-brief moments of DSL connection so I could post comments on the LPM and TCM blogs
-Sammie's suggestion for traveling over the holiday to see my parents.

Grateful Journal 6/29-30

Okay, just to clear things up, I’ve been out of town for the past couple of days. Bill and I went to Bloomington/Normal for the DCI regional competition. We had a complementary room at the Double Tree (long story—including a “bad” previous stay). We were awestruck this time, however when we opened the hotel room door. . . behind the door was a executive suite, including kitchen with a dishwasher and microwave, living room with TV, bedroom with a plush King bed and another TV, and a bathroom fit for a king—complete with a whirpool tub for two. Woo hoo!! Can you say luxurious? This is simple something we could never afford. What a blessing! Needless to say, we really enjoyed our stay at the Double Tree this time (sans kids!)

So today I’m thankful for the following:-Time alone with Bill (corresponds well with the LPM blog; Good timing on sharing those responses, Beth!)
-The kids staying at home.
-The luxurious FREE suite at the Double Tree
-Meeting friends at the ISU Alumni Dinner
-Wearing my BRMM wind shirt (it was downright cold in the stands)
-Talking about homecoming in October
-Safe travel both ways!
-Avanti’s (you have to be from Bloomington/Normal to understand this one)
-Great, cool weather for the DCI competition
-The talent of the kids participating in the drum and bugle corps. (oh my goodness!!)
-Memories of my college days in the Big Red Marching Machine.
-Talking to an alum who was in band the same time I was (just for perspective there were 500 marching member of the band. . biggest one in the country, I think) So, I know “few” people who show up at these events.
-My fellow alumni board members.
-buying DCI t-shirts
-FREE breakfast this morning (another perk from the hotel)
-Finding some cute costume jewelry
-Starbucks!!!!
-Barb: driving Sammie to class while we were gone.
-Payton’s welcome when we got back
-Family dinner together tonight at Rich and Charlie’s
-Watching Payton with her new whale toy
-Finding black work pants on clearance at Target.
-The good sleep I got last night, even though I wasn’t in my own bed.
-Finding Water Joe (caffeinated water) and buying a case to bring home.
-The DSL working (at leas briefly) when I got home.
-Reading the LPM and AJ blogs.
-Access to my computer again even if the DSL’s down (again).
-Coming home!!!!