The adventures in my empty nest

my baby is engaged

2010-03-13T15:02:00.000-08:00

I cannot believe my youngest daughter is engaged. It has all happened so fast. I knew this day would come, but now that it's here it is just hard to fathom. She has dated Taylor for about 6 months and already is engaged to him. She warned me he was the one and I heard her but did not put it in the reality portion of my brain. Now that the beautiful diamond is on her finger, I have to have a reality check and start the process of this wedding planning. The wedding date is set for August 7th of this year and that is not a long engagement time. I know this will be lots of fun. I know these few months will fly by. But I feel like we are pro's at this wedding planning after two weddings completed. I want this one to be personally Emily. I want this to be her dream wedding. I want it to be fun. Here I go......wedding shops here we come!!!!! Congratulations Emily and Taylor

Snow and Valentines

2010-02-13T12:18:00.000-08:00

I am so rusty on my blog, sometimes I forget that I have it.

I do want to post today as we have had a beautiful snow and I made a snowman. I didn't have any help, but it was still fun. I made it with love for my grandkids who are far away. I imagined if they were with me how much fun and laughter would have been involved in making that snowman.

I also had an awesome Valentines date. Tom and I went out for a lovely dinner in a very cool restaurant and got to watch a flickering fireplace and look out the window and see a fluffy white snowfall cascading down while we ate. The two opposites created a romantic setting for this years Valentines date. Also ruby red roses were on the table before we went. I love this man I married. After almost 29 years of marriage he still has what it takes to move me.

The New Year

2010-01-02T15:32:00.000-08:00

Wow, it is a new year and a new decade! How did 10 years go by so fast. Remember Y2K? It certainly doesn't seem like 10 years since nothing happened with that. I had all my kids under one roof 10 years ago. Now they are not all in the same country let alone house. (I have them spread out like jam on bread.) I love the beginning of a new year. My hubby says he thinks New Years is the dumbest celebration, but I like it. I makes me feel like I have a chance to start again and make better choices than I did in the last year. Even if I had a good year, I just feel renewed come January 1st. I love cleaning out the house after all the Christmas clutter. I love shopping for deals at the stores around town. I love being in the warm house by the fire when the weather is cold. I love that my birthday rolls around at the end of the month and I once again will be spoiled by my husband and family. I always like to think that I will know more about God and He will reveal more of Himself to me. My life feels uncluttered at this point in the year. It may be a mess by the middle of the month, but for now I am loving it.Happy New Year to all who read this. May you feel the joy of a new year with me.

Oh Christmas Tree

2009-12-07T17:02:00.000-08:00

I have my tree up and for some reason this year it smells so good and pine fresh. I usually only smell it for a few hours and then it is just a beautiful thing. But this year it has been up for a week and is still a wonderful scent everytime I walk in the room. I think it is a great tree. Emily picked it in less than 3 minutes and I was not so sure about it, but it has been one of the prettiest and best smelling ever. Good job Emily.

I also love how my cat Titus loves to sleep under the tree. I never get tired of staring at my tree and remembering the birth of Christ.

Merry Christmas!May your tree be as special as mine.

Ecuador

2009-11-01T16:23:00.001-08:00

I thought I would write a little about my mission trip to Ecuador. First of all I would like to dedicate my trip there to my uncle Gary. He has supported me for all my mission trips and always was interested in them and wanted to hear about what I did. While on this trip my uncle passed away. He was always a happy man and as far as I could tell enjoyed life. I am thankful for knowing him and will always remember him fondly.

Tom and I were able to go on this mission trip together and for that I am grateful. We had been wanting to do that for years and it just never worked out. This year we were able to join up with a group of people that we did not know except for my wonderful friend Elaine. We did so many different things on this trip. We did a children's ministry in a park in Quito to assist a couple of small churches. The kids loved the games. We also visited with some pastors in their home. We helped out with two ministries to keep children in school and off the streets. We played with them. Did a couple bible studies. Helped feed them. Gave them some supplies for their teaching. We made Christmas bags for over 300 kids. We attended and participated in a cultural night at the seminary where we were staying. Twelve countries were represented. We also provided a pizza night and prizes for about 100 students at the seminary. We got to see beautiful sights in Ecuador and ate some interesting food. Guinea Pig to be exact. We met some amazing people whose faith is incredible. We made some dear friends. We laughed and cried and enjoyed most every moment. God is working all over the world. He is bigger than we think! If you ever get an opportunity to go somewhere different and experience some new places and people, please take it. You can change a life and yours will be changed too.

Just right

2009-09-09T15:21:00.000-07:00

I recently returned from a trip to my home in Minnesota. I was there for 2 weeks. The weather was absolutely the best ever with no rain and the sun shining beautifully and the wind blowing lightly and a temperature of around 70 something most days. Fall was in the air and everywhere I looked it was just amazing. The corn was tall and the hay fields were being baled. The animals were grazing and I enjoyed time with family and friends. I attended the wedding of my niece and thought that she couldn't have asked for better weather for her special day. All in all it was a wonderful trip. It was about time I got it right as in January Tom and I were there and it was the coldest temps of the year. We were also there the end of June and it was the hottest temperatures of the year. So I was due to get it just right. It was certainly a wonderful time to be in Minnesota. Best sweet corn I had in years. Great tomatoes! And I got to try Paul's pickles and they were just right too.

the hunt

2009-08-10T14:08:00.000-07:00

I don't know how time goes so fast and then I realize how long it's been since I posted. I have been busy doing nothing. I am not working much and am looking for a new job. It's amazing how time consuming that can be. To find jobs online and then have to apply takes SO much time. Too bad you can't get paid for that. I don't love the process, but it is a necessary evil. Here is to all the people looking for jobs! Don't give up, the perfect job is out there somewhere. Someone wants and yes, needs you in their company. (that is what I keep telling myself anyway)

every day is new

2009-07-14T08:23:00.000-07:00

The unfailing love of the Lord never ends! By His mercies we have been kept from complete destruction. Great is His faithfulness; His mercies begin afresh each day.I say to myself "The Lord is my inheritance therefore, I will hope in Him!" Lamentations 3:22-24 (New Living)

lots of stuff

2009-06-30T17:35:00.000-07:00

four generations... Duesterhoeft Burger and Stover

Olivia's birthday celebration.

I finally feel like life is getting a little bit back to normal...not totally normal, but slightly. The wedding is over and the newlyweds are back. We went on our Minnesota vacation and had a great time. We are getting the house back in order and life seems less chaotic. I will post a few pictures from the wedding and our trip. Oh my Olivia turned 2 yesterday! Life is a rollercoaster that never stops. You never stop climbing and never stop falling. Up and down, up and down through all the stages of life.

2009-06-18T05:35:00.000-07:00

Two days until the wedding. Things going on like crazy. Wedding favors are made. Nails are done. Today is bridesmaid luncheon. Guests coming from out of town.(family) Rehearsal and dinner tonight. All the fun stuff now. Ready to enjoy all of the festivities and activities. Looking forward to watching my daughter walk down the isle to the man of her dreams. This is it! Next post will have pictures. Yippee!

Showers, showers and more showers

2009-06-06T17:03:00.000-07:00

So we have a wedding in 2 weeks from today. The past month has been showers, showers and more showers. I have never heard of anyone having as many bridal showers as my daughter has had. Couples shower, room shower, prayer shower, lingere' showers, regular shower.....it has been exhausting. It's been lots of fun watching Alisha and James be so blessed by their friends and family, play fun games and laugh alot. However, I am ready for it to be over and here comes the bride be played. Don't get me wrong, I am totally enjoying the whole process, but I am ready to go back to normal life. The life where the most you plan is what to have for dinner and what show to watch.

Rain

2009-05-27T13:41:00.000-07:00

It has rained on and off for over a week. I don't think May has had very many dry days at all. I love the fact that the grass and plants are all so green and healthy looking, but I am also ready for a few sunny days. The rain plays with my emotions. Any how.... those are my thoughts on that!

wedding time

2009-05-20T11:53:00.000-07:00

As today is 1 month until my daughter Alisha and her fiance'James' wedding, I will post about it as I think I will be a little busy in the next few weeks. 1 month and I will have one less Burger daughter. I have been through this once before and should be a pro at marrying off my daughters. The planning can be fun (sometimes) The dress shopping, exhilerating. The showers...so much fun. The thinking about the money we need to spend, exhausting. But when it comes close I get excited for my daughter, especially when I know she is marrying the right guy. I knew with Sheila that she was marrying the right guy and I know with Alisha that she is marrying the right guy. That does give me peace and joy. The part I struggle with is the fact that my daughter is no longer mine and Tom's, she is her husbands. She will never be ours on her birthday. She will never be ours on Christmas morning. She won't wake up in our house and come down for breakfast or say good night when she gets home late. They may spend the night once in awhile but it's just not the same. They belong to someone else. They are married! So when June 20th comes and Alisha walks down the isle to James and he looks at her with tears of joy and she smiles that beautiful smile, I will have tears in my eyes, some of joy and some of sadness for another daughter who isn't mine anymore. But then I have to remember...God gave her to Tom and I to care for and raise right. She is His and was never mine to start with. That makes it easier. I am gaining another son too. Two down, 1 to go.

Happy Birthday Em

2009-05-02T10:56:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow is my baby's 21st birthday! I am thinking that this cant be possible, but it is true. She is an amazing girl/woman. She is finishing up her junior year of college and has excellent grades. She loves God with all her heart and is a very loving person. I love to hang out with her when she is around home. She grew up too fast and I don't know where the time has gone. Emily, I love you and wish you the best birthday ever. Thanks for being my girl. You are the best! Love, MOM

2009-04-21T16:00:00.000-07:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, SHEILA

Twenty-six years ago today, I gave birth to my first-born child. A beautiful red headed girl and we named her Sheila Rebecca. I try to wrap my mind around the fact that she is an adult with children of her own. But when I think about her today, I see the sweet little face that looked up at me in wonder twenty-six years ago...and yet she is a grown woman. Time and memory is such a strange thing....and wonderful. Happy Birthday, Sheila. I love who you are. You are an amazing woman, a terrific mother, wife and daughter.

anniversary

2009-04-11T14:36:00.000-07:00

It's my anniversary! Happy 28 years together my love, Tom. April 11, 1981 was a very good day.

I am thankful for the cross

2009-04-10T13:42:00.000-07:00

Today I remember what Jesus did on the cross for me. I am thankful for the cross. I am thankful for Jesus setting me free!

Just a moment

2009-03-27T16:48:00.000-07:00

I recently read a portion in Max Lucado's book It's Not About Me. What I read on Page 55 inspired me. It's talking about moments in our life compared with eternity. Here is a portion of page55...

God does the same with your struggles. On one side he stacks all your burdens. Famines. Firings. Parents who forgot you. Bosses who ignored you. Bad breaks, bad health, bad days. Stack them up, and watch one side of the pan scale plummet. Now witness God's response. Does He remove them? Eliminate the burdens? No, rather than take them, He offsets them. He places an eternal weight of glory on the other side. Endless joy. Measureless peace. An eternity of Him. Watch what happens as He sets eternity on your scale. Everything changes! The burdens lift. The heavy becomes light when weighted against eternity. If life is "just a moment" can't we endure any challenge for a moment?
We can be sick for just a moment.
We can be lonely for just a moment.
We can be persecuted for just a moment.
We can struggle for just a moment. Can't we?
Can't we wait for our peace? It's not about us anyway. And it's certainly
not about now.

there aren't words enough

2009-03-19T07:31:00.000-07:00

There are no words necessary. These two are my joy!

almost heaven

2009-03-15T09:21:00.001-07:00

I love being a grandma. Today I leave to go and take care of my grandkids while their parents are in meetings. I will get to play, love, kiss, hug, help feed, change, sing, run, shop,play some more, sleep, color, smile, hum, rock,and just relish the job of grammy! God sure designed life in an amazing way to give us nuggets of heaven. This next few days will be very close to heaven for me.

A beautiful day

2009-03-07T12:52:00.000-08:00

I love it when spring really comes to Charlotte. It is spring today with temps in the high 70's. I love to open the windows and let the breeze air out my house. I love to clean floors, window treatments, carpet and whatever else might need a cleaning. I love to get out and work in the yard with the birds chirping and the flowers blooming. I got a surprise today. I went in the back yard this morning and discovered things were blooming. I had a pink and a purple hyacinth. I had forsythia, daffodils, and lenten roses. When did this happen? Last week we had snow. This week it feels like it is almost summer. It's confusing, however I don't care. I just love this weather. Bring it on!!!!

2009-02-28T09:48:00.000-08:00

God wants to reach down and touch us, but first we have to reach up and touch Him in prayer. When we pray, we're saying,"I know You are real,Lord,and I want to spend time with You".

written by Stormie Omartian with Jack Hayford

missing my baby girl

2009-02-17T08:32:00.000-08:00

My youngest daughter is in college. I have not gotten to see her much lately and it just seems like when I do see her all our family is together so I don't get one on one time with her. I think I am going to hang out with my baby(yes she is my baby even if she is in college). I miss her, Emily here I come.(alisha too)Going to the mountains this weekend.

I Choose to believe

2009-02-11T07:46:00.001-08:00

My devotion the other day was SO what I needed. It talked about serving leftovers to company.That is something you would probably never do if you were trying to treat someone very special. The author then related it to our walk with God and giving God our leftovers. How many times do we give God the last of our energy rather than the first and best? God does require all of our lives. I am dealing with my oldest daughter, husband, and grandchildren leaving this year to go into the foreign mission field. I have not responded to God with my best. I have been selfish and self centered, because I love them so and don't want to be without them. I dont want to miss birthday's, holidays and just ordinary times together. I don't want to miss them.It breaks my heart to think about it. You see, it has been all about me. What is wrong with this picture? God is asking me like Abraham to give up my child.(and in this case my son-in-law and grandchildren). He isn't asking me to sacrifice them in the same way as Abraham, but He is asking me to give them up for His work and service. I want to please the Lord and no matter how this hurts, I trust God. I know He has a bigger plan than me having time with my family. I am encouraged. I am not alone. God may never let them actually go,or He may allow them to minister abroad for the rest of their lives. No matter what, I choose to believe that God is working all things out for their good and mine and His glory. I choose to believe God.

2009-02-09T13:19:00.000-08:00

In the past week I have enjoyed a facial, a hair cut, and a pedicure. I have gotten to shop for new clothes and a book. I even treated myself with a free coupon for a coffee. Boy, am I spoiled. All of this courtesy of my family for my birthday.(except the haircut that was from ME!) I rarely take time for myself like this and really enjoy it when I do. I am thankful for the pampering. Sometimes in life you just really need that. If you are a bit in the dumps and ready for spring or just need time out of the norm. Try one of these pamperings. It will change your attitude.

Birthday message

2009-02-01T08:09:00.000-08:00

This is ONE reason I love being a grandmother. It made my birthday special! My sweet, sweet birthday message! Thanks Olivia and Hudson! Grammy loves you!

could there be anything better?

2009-01-28T07:27:00.000-08:00

Being a grandmother is the best job I've ever had. The love and peace I feel holding my grandson or having my granddaughter reach for me and saying" Ammy" is better than anything this life has to offer other than Jesus!"Olivia and Hudson, Grammy loves you!"

engagment dinner

2009-01-26T13:23:00.000-08:00

January 24, 2009 was a day we celebrated the engagement of James McGinn and Alisha Burger. Tom and I hosted a dinner for both families and grandparents from both sides. We enjoyed a dinner of chicken parmesian,salad, rolls and a delicious chocolate cake. It was a very nice time to celebrate a special couple. Congratulations James and Alisha we wish you the best!

had a great trip

2009-01-22T07:22:00.000-08:00

OK, so I am back and right on time. No snow holding us back other than it snowed in North Carolina the morning we returned. But as our traveling luck would have it there was no delay nor was there snow here when we returned. Tom and I had a great trip to MN. It was soooooo cold though that there was not much chance to do the outdoor stuff. -27 degrees without windchill is just a little crazy. We had a nice visit with my family and got to eat more than is humanly possible.( and I am not talking about healthy food, I am talking junk food.) We played games, laughed, ate and ate some more. We worked a little too. All in all it was great. Thanks all you Minnesotans, your hospitality was appreciated.

winter funk

2009-01-09T05:53:00.000-08:00

I have been in a winter funk! It's been rainy here for days and I have had headaches. It just seems like this time of year after all the hub bub of the holiday season I get in the funk. So my hubby and I are going on a trip. Don't know if this will help but it is to MINNESOTA in the winter. Are we crazy or what? Hubby says he needs to get his winter in. Since we live in the south, we really dont get much winter. Hope this helps with my funk and lets him get his winter in. If I don't blog for awhile, it might be we just got stuck in winter.

Got a minute?

2009-01-03T12:25:00.000-08:00

Life has not seemed normal lately, with holidays, vacation and kids home and work schedule different and planning Alisha's wedding, everything seems abnormal. I don't like when life is the same ole, same ole.....but there is some comfort in routine. I haven't prayed like I know I should and I am sure that is where my frustration lies. Isn't it wonderful to know that God never changes but also He is never routine, dull or boring? When I am discouraged or feel out of sorts all I need to do is spend a minute in prayer or read the Good Book and presto, my life seems to have perspective again!
But let all who take refuge in You be glad, Let them ever sing for joy;And may You shelter them. That those who love Your name may exult in You. For it is You who blesses the righteous man, O Lord, You surround him with favor as with a shield. Psalms 5:11-12

Happy engagement

2008-12-28T18:39:00.000-08:00

So much has happened in the past few weeks. But the main news is Alisha is engaged to James. All our family is very happy and excited. We very much love James as one of our own. Now we are getting into the planning and it is very much fun. Here is a picture of the happy couple.

Christmas favorites

2008-12-18T11:58:00.000-08:00

I was tagged by Sheila for my Christmas favorites...
Favorite Tree: A real one for sure. Love the pine smell. This year is probably my favorite as our whole family helped decorate...even boyfriends of Alisha and Emily. Best of all Olivia helped. That alone makes it my favorite.
Favorite ornament: I have all our girls babies firt Christmas ornaments from the Precious Moments collection.
Favorite Christmas Song: Joy to the World.
Favorite Tradition: Reading the Christmas story by tree-light on Christmas Eve and then opening one gift each!
Favorite gift: I have had so many wonderful ones I cant pick, but I suppose the best gift is being able to be with family and watch them open gifts together.
Favorite Meal: Christmas eve meal with Pizza, wings, taco dip, shrimp. Yummmy!
Favorite Cookie: Sugar cutouts....I also like my brother Paul's chocolate star cookies.
Favorite Place to be: Home with my crazy fun family.
Favorite Memory: Being a child and having the most wonderful white christmas snow fall on Christmas day as my grandparents came up to our house for the day. Absolutely engraved in my heart. I also loved the time we gave our girls a trampoline and did a scavenger hunt for them to get to the big gift outside. (Watching Tom put it together outside on Christmas eve on one of the coldest days of the year was pretty memorable too.)
Favorite Movie: How can I pick a favorite there are so many. Elf, It's a wonderful life, Scrooge, The Little Drummer Boy cartoon.

I tag Tom and Jayme and Liz.

Happy Birthday Tom

2008-12-18T09:58:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday to the one I have loved for over 28 years. I hope this is the best year you have ever had. I love you.

Christmas is a coming.....

2008-12-05T12:49:00.000-08:00

I love that old song, Christmas is a coming and the lights are on the tree. The version I knew was sung by Loren Green. Nothing reminds me of Christmas growning up more than that song on his Christmas album. I like thinking about lights on the tree. Light is an awesome thing. Jesus is the light of the world. There are so many verses about light in the Bible. This time of year especially I like to think about those verses as I look at the lights on my own Christmas tree. God is light and in Him is no darkness at all. 1 John 1:5 That is something positive to ponder in our world of darkness. Are you looking to the True Light for all your answers? May your Christmas season be filled with God's light!

Thankfulness

2008-11-26T05:03:00.000-08:00

Since we are one day away from Thanksgiving I am going to post a 30 reasons for thankfulness list. I am thankful all year but never as thankful as I should be. Why don't you list your reasons to be thankful and keep them handy for times you don't feel thankful.
1. Jesus
2. Tom my hubby
3. My girls.. Sheila, Alisha, Emily
4. My Olivia and Hudson (grandchildren)
5. As Tom puts it when he prays (our boys) That is our girls husbands and boyfriends!
6. Our home
7. Flannel sheets in winter
8. Hot meals
9. a job
10. the use of all my senses
11. My family in Minnesota
12. Bible
13. my cats Chicken Nugget and Titus
14. water to drink and the Sweet Tea it makes
15. my car
16. Our church
17. Friends
18. Bible study class
19. Hiking
20. The heart to help others in need
21. music
22. Christian novels
23. leaves that fall
24 flowers that bloom
25. oceans to swim in
26. snow to play in and hot chocolate after
27. laughter
28. giving gifts
29. smell of a fresh cut christmas tree
30. snuggle time with the ones Ilove.

Hudson Isaiah

2008-11-17T16:50:00.001-08:00

November 14, 2008 a very special day when Hudson Isaiah came into the world at 11:34 am weighing 8 pounds and 3 ounces. He is so beautiful and has made me a very happy grammy.

cleaning can be fun

2008-11-10T09:38:00.000-08:00

I spent the weekend at my daughter, Sheila's house to help her get her NEST ready for the new baby coming next week. We cleaned from top to bottom and it was fun. REALLY, I love cleaning and organizing, so this is my idea of a great time. To make it even more fun, my little granddaughter Olivia was helping. What could be better than that. Well only 4 more days until the family of three will be a family of four.

Give me Your eyes

2008-11-03T03:48:00.000-08:00

I have heard this song for a few weeks now on christian radio and love it. Take a minute to listen and watch.....Brandon Heath's Give me Your eyes.
http://www.brandonheath.net/updatesinfo.php?id=10

Keeping Olivia the funnest time ever

2008-10-22T10:49:00.001-07:00

As you can see our time has been filled. It is a joy to play with our Olivia and laugh with her and see how much she already knows. We love her.
href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-zYK8KNBadw/SP9pXKY6_yI/AAAAAAAAAaA/lkyIzUqMyoQ/s1600-h/IMG_0997.JPG">
Enjoying relaxing time with grandpa.

A moment to enjoy the beauty of flowers.

Grandpa's idea, Build a Bear!

Breakfast is fun and early!

My little fall cutie

2008-10-17T12:23:00.000-07:00

What can I say. I am proud of my little Olivia. She is her grammy's favorite little bug. She is getting so big and fun to watch. Here she is with a pumpkin that her grandpa(baba) got her when she visited this past weekend. And she is wearing a kitty shirt that her grammy picked out for her. Emily her auntie is enjoying her too as you can see from the photo. The kitty is to make her giggle 'cause it is so cute when she does that. Fall is a wonderful time of year, but having Olivia around makes it even better.

Fall is here

2008-10-04T13:27:00.000-07:00

I love days like this when the sun is shining the breeze is blowing and you get the beginning hint of color starting on the leaves. When you have friends to do things with and good food. God is amazing. What do you think?!

rainy day

2008-09-26T10:37:00.000-07:00

It's a cool, rainy day today. Just a great day to make a pot of chili, read books, watch a movie and take a nap under a blanket. We don't have any gas to go anywhere anyway. Life is good.

Missing Minnesota

2008-09-18T16:05:00.000-07:00

Just missing my home and wishing I was closer to my family. It's hard to be away when your parents are getting older and need help alot. I am thankful for all who are in Minnesota and take care of things for my mom and dad.

fun with Olivia

2008-09-04T17:27:00.001-07:00

Fun times with Olivia Grace

Faith

2008-08-26T10:30:00.000-07:00

Do you have days when your faith seems to be gone? Do you have days when your faith is so strong? Do you have days when you have both in the matter of hours? Am I alone? What does God's word say about it?

For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith: as it is written, The just shall live by faith. Romans 1:17

But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him. Hebrews 11:6

That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ:Whom having not seen, ye love:in whom, though now ye see him not, yet believing, ye rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory;
Recieving the end of your faith, even the salvation of your souls.
I Peter 1:7-9

From what I see our walk with him is up and down, from faith to faith. But every time we go through hard things and our faith seems to be gone, but we get up again and continue on in the best way we know how. We are honoring God.

Guess I am not alone.

few good tips

2008-08-20T07:39:00.000-07:00

I saw the following on Gary's blog from 91.9 WRCM thought it was good.......

When you're criticized

Three quick tips:

1. Don't ever overreact. If your emotions are yelling at you, convince yourself your emotions are lying and telling you it's a bigger deal than it is (they are). Don't let your emotions boss your reaction.

2. Do NOT go down there where the criticizer is, ever. Stay above every criticism. Don't debate the criticizer or the criticism. Every time you stay above things you end up elevated in the eyes of most (not all) others.

3. Get over wanting everyone to like you. Ain't gonna happen. Don't fool yourself and think that if they only knew all the facts and knew your motivations they'd drop the criticism. Maybe. Or maybe they'd increase it.

fun with Olivia

2008-08-14T19:00:00.000-07:00

Olivia and Sheila spent a week with us last week as Andrew was on a mission trip. We had a really fun time with our little bug and Sheila too. She kept Tom and I busy and tired us out, but we loved every minute of it. We pushed her in the swing, went for wagon rides. Played outside and watered flowers. We chased her around the house and kissed and hugged her alot. We fed her bathed her and laughed at her funny ways. She is such a gift from God. I can only say. I love her more than words can say.

Which way to go?

2008-08-09T08:20:00.000-07:00

I quit my job. It took me 4 months to find it and I worked 1 1/2 months to find that I didn't want to stay. It is so hard at times to figure out what direction to go. I pray about things like this and just wish God would give me audible answers and say "go this way,don't take that job, hey this would be the best decision you can make!" God doesn't work that way. He wants me to ask Him questions, but He also gives me faith to take steps down the paths I feel He would have me go. I asked Tom last night at dinner,"What do you do when you don't know what to do?" He proceeded to tell me what he tells inmates all the time when they ask. "Do the next right thing you know to do." I get that with their situation, but if I knew the right thing to do, I wouldn't have a problem. Did I make a mistake when I took this job? Maybe, maybe not. I want to believe that God had me there for a purpose for a short season. Maybe to encourage a patient, maybe for the doctor, maybe for my co-worker. I may never know. It would be nice to SEE that I was on the right path for this time in my life, but I probably will never know. I have to believe that I was right where God wanted me or I will always be questioning my walk of faith. When I am in this state of flux, God's Word is where my answers lie. Psalms 37:23 The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord: and He delighteth in his way.
Well if God takes delight in my way as He orders my steps, I guess I will be ok.
Psalms 32:8 I will instruct thee and teach thee in the way which thou shalt go: I will guide thee with mine eye.
Again, God is teaching me and will guide me. I guess according to God's Word, I am on the right path and He will lead me from here. I feel better already. Maybe you have questioned your decisions on some matter. Go to God's Word for encouragement and answers. You will not be disappointed!

I got tagged

2008-08-04T17:22:00.000-07:00

I'm it!

One Word Meme

1. Answer the questions using only one word.

2. Tag four others. (I tag Liz and Tom)

Where is your cell phone? purse

Your significant other?big

Your hair? growing

Your mother? amazing

Your father? dedicated

Your favorite thing? family

Your dream last night?forgetable

Your favorite drink? water

Your dream/goal? happiness

The room you’re in? loft

Your hobby?walking'

Your fear? trouble

Where do you want to be in 6 years? alive

What you’re not? ambitious

Muffins? poppyseed

One of your wish list items? porch

Where you grew up? hutchinson

Last thing you did? shopped

Favorite gadget? phone

Your pets? cats

Your computer? lifeline

Your mood? hopeful

Missing someone? parents

Your car? Honda

Favorite store?Aldi

Like someone? yep

Your favorite color? green

Last time you laughed? today

Last time you cried? weeks

work weekend

2008-07-31T16:33:00.000-07:00

I am going away for the weekend with my job. I usually really look forward to the weekends, but this one I am kinda dreading. I have to go with my boss to a convention for our profession. I dont really know what to expect. I know that I need an open mind and a good attitude, but I am a family person and when it comes to my weekends I want to have them with whom I choose. It's going to feel like work all weekend so as a result, I am working 2 weeks straight. Yikes. Fortunately, we hired a new girl and she will be going too. That is my saving grace. So while everyone else is enjoying the weekend with whomever and whatever they choose, I will be in seminars listening to how I can be a better employee. Think about me.

Love you

2008-07-22T11:15:00.001-07:00

I sure love my family!

Moods

2008-07-17T17:01:00.000-07:00

I have had so many mood changes in the past few weeks that I think I might be related to a yo-yo.

No job
New job
Nice vacation
Now back to work
Never feeling like I get enough rest
Nothing to look forward too after vacation is over
Numb feeling inside.....feel like I'm on a spiritual drain

Get the picture......I am a mess. Only with God's help will I survive and excel through this time of NNNNNNNNN's.

2008-07-12T06:04:00.000-07:00

We had an awesome vacation with our whole family in Minnesota on the farm. It was a one of a kind time together. My parents children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren were all together. It just doesnt happen very often. The weather was very nice and the opportunities for fun were endless. It was very memorable. "Thanks God for the special times you give us here on earth"!

Vaca!

2008-07-01T10:41:00.001-07:00

I am getting ready to go on a vacation. I will be with my whole family. I am looking forward to it very much. This will be the first time in years that my parents will be with all of their grandchildren and great-grandchildren. And who knows it may never happen again on this side of heaven. I cant wait to get to the farm and just hang out and laugh and play games and eat and eat some more. I will meet boyfriend and girlfriend of niece and brother. I will get to roast a hotdog over an open fire. I will see fireworks and slap at misquitos. I will milk a cow and drink the fresh milk. I will have pop, not soda. I will cook for what seems like hundreds and we will all pack in one home to sleep. Doesnt it sound like a great time? I think so.

Crazy

2008-06-24T10:40:00.000-07:00

This post is to catch you all up. I got a job! I am being thrown crazily into my work because there is no other office help. The Dr. just kinda said this is this and this is that and here come the patients and....... HELP!!!!!! I am catching on but it's nuts to not have a girl there to train you for awhile. I also got my car broken into while Tom, Emily and I were at the track walking! Now that just makes me mad. When you can't go to the local HS and walk the track for some exercise, that just is so wrong. Anyhow, now I have to wait for the glass company to come and fix it on Thursday, so I am scrambling to get some way to work without driving with thick plastic on the window. (It's very loud) Just hope that someday the vandels get caught. If they don't someday they will have to answer to God. So my life is crazy!

2008-06-17T12:26:00.000-07:00

I was reading my Bible for my devotional time and what I read intrigued me. I was reading
Proverbs 20:5-7
(5) Counsel in the heart of man is like deep water, But a man of understanding will draw it out. (6) Most men will proclaim each his own goodness, But who can find a faithful man? (7) The righteous man walks in his integrity; His children are blessed after him.

First, I think this scripture is telling me that if God puts someone in my path that has a situation good or bad, if I am truly a believer who cares about people I will be interested in what is going on in this persons life and maybe even be of help to them with my words. Secondly, we are in a day when people sure do toot their own horns a lot, but show me someone who is there for me when I need them and that's the person I call friend and want to be around. Last verse amazes me because I have thought about this a time or two. I have a very godly heritage going back to my grandmother on my dads side. I remember as a small child being in her home while she was resting on her couch, she was praying and reading her Bible. That had an impact on me at a very young age. My mom and dad also, were faithful in their prayer life and God's Word. Now according to this verse, I have reaped benefits of their righteous ways. I can sense that in my life often by God's favor. My prayer is that I am passing on a blessing to my children and grandchildren and great-grandchildren because of my walk with God. What are you passing on to others? Ponder these scriptures and be blessed.

Not discouraged anymore

2008-06-13T13:31:00.000-07:00

My post a few days ago was a bit of a downer. I normally don't share my feelings when they are negative. But I was just at a point where I felt I needed to share. Today I am reflecting on how things change. I have been greatly encouraged by so many people from my husband, my sister, missionaries I know from Nicaragua, several of my friends, my girls and etc. I can't say that I was immediately happy and jumping up and down, but the more I reflected on how God encourages us through the people who are part of our lives, I began to be encouraged and greatly filled with joy. So many of them told me things that I could ponder and realize that God is good. He is working things out for my good. Even when I am thinking God is working so slow. I hope that I encourage people that I am around. I want to offer words of encouragement to those who need it. I will look for opportunities to help someone and say the words that God puts in my mouth. This is the way God intended it to be. People of God doing all they can to make things better for others while we are on this earth.

2008-06-10T11:19:00.000-07:00

My granddaughter is adorable whether she is in jeans and a hat or a beautiful dress.

Discouraged

2008-06-06T12:45:00.000-07:00

Have you ever had one of those days or times when you have been discouraged? Of course you have everyone has. Yesterday was one of those days for me. I just found out I was not chosen for another job.(one I really thought I wanted) It just seemed like the message was one that put me over the edge. I have my moods for sure, but I have always tried to live in the middle. Try to not climb to high or fall too low in the way I look at things. Putting my trust in the Lord has really helped with that too. When I get down, I encourage myself in the Lord as David did in the old testament. Yesterday,no matter how I tried I could not seem to lift myself up. Tears were brimming to the surface of my eyes all afternoon. Emily was with me and she was in a similar mood too as she was suppose to hear about a job by yesterday and didn't. What is a person suppose to do when you have done all you know to do and God is just not opening any doors? I have asked,fasted,prayed,searched and prayed some more and I just am not hearing from the Lord. I want to have faith that He is going to answer me with a great job. I was doing well until about a month ago and now after 4 months of looking, I am asking, "Lord, what am I missing? Am I suppose to be looking somewhere else that I haven't thought of?" I am discouraged. I feel like I am missing God. I know that God "has a plan for me" as it says in Jeremiah 29:11. I don't want to go through this without faith and then when God answers me with a wonderful job I will regret that I didn't trust His timing. For now I will have to depend on the prayers and encouragement of others to lift me up as I have no strength left of my own.

Air conditioning

2008-06-02T17:01:00.000-07:00

Why is it that when it gets hot our air-conditioning fails us. We were driving my Honda CRV to go to Alisha's pool yesterday,( because it was in the high 80's, and it was a Sunday afternoon and we wanted to get cool) when we heard this funny noise and all of the sudden my air stopped shooting out cool air. NOOOoooooooooo! I was just thinking the other week how nice it was that my car was working so well and that I haven't had any problems. Needless to say, since we live in the south and it is suppose to be getting up to the 90's next week, I guess I will have to get it fixed. It never gives me a problem in the winter, no, it waits until summer!

CANT SLEEP

2008-05-28T23:50:00.000-07:00

OK this is happening way too often. I go to bed and before I know it, something wakes me up and I am looking at the clock and listening to the heavy breathing of my husband. It is sometimes 1:30 sometimes 3 o'clock, when it is 4:30, I am ok, because morning is near. But this morning it is 1:30 and I am getting so tired of this. I pray, I think, I turn and toss and usually there is a cat on or near me. I am just not sure what the problem is. If I start vacuuming I think Tom and Emily might be upset. What do you think?

Two weddings and baby kisses

2008-05-26T17:27:00.000-07:00

This memorial day weekend was a whirlwind. We had two weddings, a trip to Roxboro, a trip to Boone, friends over for shrimp dinner, and lots of kisses on our granddaughter, who is getting to be so grown up already. I dont know how we fit that all in over 4 days but we did. On Thursday,Emily and I went to visit Sheila and brought her and Olivia home with us on Friday. On Friday we had our friends Chris and Amanda over for dinner. On Saturday our long time family friends the Gordons had a wonderful wedding in which Erin became Mrs. Birkmeyer. On Sunday our daughter Alisha was a bridesmaid in her friends Alinna and Daniel's wedding in Boone. We attended that one too and enjoyed some beautiful weather in the mountains of NC.

Wow! How does so much happen in such a short amount of time? I love it! I like to be busy and have my time occupied. I guess because I am not working right now, I appreciate my time being counted for certain events. I must say, I am tired today. But I loved every minute of the past 4 days.

My life and the spa

2008-05-21T06:38:00.000-07:00

My unemployment has been an interesting time of ups and downs. I guess because some days I am encouraged that I will have a job soon and some days I feel I will never find a good job. But last week and this week, my life has been kinda great. I got a gift card for mother's day from my hubby for a facial at Koha spa in Tega Cay. I got to go with Emily as she got one for her birthday, and we had a wonderful relaxing hour. I also got a gift card from Alisha for a pedicure at Blis spa in Pineville so Emily and I enjoyed that together. (well Emily had to buy her own manicure) but anyhow, I feel like the queen going to all the spa's while I am unemployed. Do you think that I could make a job out of that? Hey anyone want to give me another gift card? I am open to any spa! I will even send you a review of how I rate the services. Now I think I am on to something!!!!!

2008-05-19T13:42:00.000-07:00

Been Tagged! By Sheila Stover.....why does she do this to me?

What were you doing 10 years ago?
I had all my girls at home and was working for a chiropracter. I was loving my husband and thanking God that He was giving me strength to raise 3 girls 2 of which were teenagers.

5 things on your to do list for today?
1. certify for unemployment
2. Apply for some jobs
3. Get some groceries
4. exercise
5. take time for Jesus

5 things you would do if you were a billionaire?
1. I wouldn't be looking for a job.
2. I would travel quite extensively with my husband and my girls and their husbands.
3. I would find some really good mission opportunities and needs and set them up for good.
4. Set my girls up with some good retirement plans
5. Probably buy a new house in a better neighborhood. Nothing extravegant though.

Name 3 bad habits:
1. I criticize too quickly
2. I criticize too often
3. I don't spend enough time praying for needs of those I know and spend way too little time studying God's Word.

List 5 jobs I have had:
1. Corn detasseler
2. Babysitter
3. Waitress
4. Grocery store clerk
5. Chiropractic Assistant
6. Bookkeeper for a granite/tile company

5 Books I have recently read:
1. The Bible-God
2. Shadow Castle-Marriane Cockrell
3. True Light- Terri Blackstock
4. Country Brides- Nora Roberts( maybe)
5. Cant remember all the names, I have read a lot lately....no job right now!

I guess I will tag Tom and Liz as I dont know too many bloggers other than Sheila and she tagged me!

2008-05-16T13:05:00.001-07:00

The Lord's lovingkindnesses indeed never cease, For His compassions never fail. They are new every morning; Great is Your faithfulness. "The Lord is my portion," says my soul, "Therefore I have hope in Him." The Lord is good to those who wait for Him, To the person who seeks Him.

Lamentations3:22-25

My baby is home

2008-05-12T16:53:00.000-07:00

My baby is home from college for the summer. I am so very excited to have her here. I love it when she is around. I feel like I didnt get to talk to her much or see her much this past year. I am a happy mom, and I am going to enjoy every moment with her.

Photo shoot

2008-05-04T18:37:00.000-07:00

Photo Session with Grammy

Zoo

2008-04-27T12:28:00.000-07:00

Picnic, walking, icee's, dippin dots, walking, tram's, animals, sunscreen, laughter,water, needing a nap.....fun, fun, fun at the zoo!

We went to the zoo yesterday. Our whole family, plus boyfriends and Andrew's family(which is our family too) It was a beautiful day at the Asheboro zoo. Here are a few pictures to let you know the fun we had!

Auto Bell

2008-04-24T18:24:00.000-07:00

I went to Auto Bell today for the first time in my life. My car was unrecognizable under all the pollen. Tom told me to use his gift card and get my car cleaned. So I did. I am always a little leary about trying new things, because I am not sure how they work. But since I am trying to be brave lately.....I did it. And you know, I felt kinda guilty watching those boys sweat working on my vehicle and about 20 other people's vehicles. I know they get paid, but it was very warm out today and they were bookin' to keep up with all the customers. My car was looking pretty shiney after they were through with it. It feels so good to have a clean car. Makes you wanna drive around town. Ok on second thought I won't, not with gas over $3.50 a gallon. I'll just have to admire it in the driveway. I suppose tomorrow it will be covered in pollen again!

25 years

2008-04-21T11:13:00.000-07:00

Sheila with her sisters and Olivia

Sheila with her kitten Max

Sheila with her hubby Andrew

Today 25 years ago I gave birth to my first child a daughter, Sheila. I just am in awe that 25 years has gone by like that! Sheila is such a special woman. She is a motivator and fun person in general. She always headed up some fun stuff in our household over the years and still does it today. She is a beautiful woman outside and inside. She is a great mother herself too. We had a wonderful time this weekend celebrating her birthday and being together as a family. She also got to go on a lovely date with her husband. (by the way her baby was the best behaved child I ever babysat for) Here are a few pictures to honor my sweet Sheila!

New parenting lesson for me

2008-04-17T18:07:00.000-07:00

So I was working in my yard today as it was a beautiful sunny spring day. Well I hear a child crying for a very long time. It is a neighbor in the back yard and down about three houses. After about at least 20 minutes of this child crying, I start thinking to myself something must be wrong. I see the child standing in the same position for all this time crying loudly enough that I can hear him, and see no supervision whatsoever. Well I finally decide to go over there and make sure that he is alright. I see no parent or guardian outside and walk over to the childs fence and ask him if he is ok. He doesnt answer so I ask where him mommy is and he says she's at work. Well now I am greatly concerned as this kid is probably only 3 or 4. I go to the front door and after a huge dog bumps against the front door, I hear someone on the phone say I gotta go. She comes to the door with another child in her arms and I let her know that I am concerned about her child who has been crying loudly for sometime. She is offended that I came to her yard and says it was only 12 minutes she was timing it. She proceeds to tell me that she is trying a new parenting skill. Her Pediatrician recommened it! She told her son to take a nap and he wouldnt and proceeded to cry. So she is ignoring him rather than give him negative attention. Well I think I must have stood there with my mouth agape! I can understand new parenting skills, but I dont think leaving your kid in the backyard alone for at least 20 minutes....(it truly was closer to 30 minutes) while you're inside on the phone is a great new skill. Maybe I'm old fashioned, but I think maybe that new skill was misinterpreted by the parent or other wise that Pediatrician should have his or her license revoked.

I NEED, I NEED

2008-04-14T11:48:00.000-07:00

OK, starting to go crazy, I need a JOB!!!!!

Happy anniversary

2008-04-10T13:56:00.000-07:00

So tomorrow is my 27th wedding anniversary. I just want to take a moment to tell my husband how much I love him. I tease him alot and get on him about things, but I could not imagine my life without him. He is my lover and my best friend. We laugh, we pray, we cry (not too much of that)together. We are parents together and now grandparents together. We travel, we read, he sings to me romantic songs. We cook and eat together, and once in a blue moon dance together.

He is the smartest man I know. He is so talented in so many areas. He is the most determined person, when he puts his mind to something it's a done deal. He is very giving and caring. (even though sometimes he tries not to let people know it) He has given up so much to take care of his family. He is an amazing man and I love him deeply. The world is certainly a better place because of my husband Tom. The smartest thing I ever did was marry him. I am thankful for Tom and hope we have another 27 years together. I love you honey!

All you need is love

2008-04-08T12:07:00.001-07:00

Me with my amazing granddaughter, Olivia!

Love is so amazing! Why is it the more you give the more you have? My daughter, Sheila is expecting her second child and she made the statement to me that Andrew, her husband was worried that Olivia would be his favorite. I had to laugh, but I remember feeling that way myself. I was not sure that I could love anyone as much as I loved Sheila, but when Alisha came my love was there for her too. Then when my third, Emily came, amazingly enough I loved her just as much as the first two. Love multiplies the more you give it. I cant explain it but it's true. No wonder it is the best gift you can give anyone. The more you give, the more it comes back to you.

Mother/daughter weekend

2008-04-05T14:48:00.000-07:00

Hey we're having fun mother/daughter/granddaughter weekend.

Fun times

2008-03-31T11:14:00.000-07:00

So our family was suppose to meet up at the zoo this past Saturday. It was yucky weather and Olivia was not feeling 100% so we went to plan B. Plan B was meet at a mall in a central location and hang out and have lunch. We did and it was fun. We laughed and kissed Olivia, shopped and kissed Olivia, ate and kissed Olivia, looked at the pet store and kissed Olivia. You get the picture. Since we were close to a good barbecue place we all ate dinner together and then parted and went our different directions. A spur of the moment plan but oh so fun to be with family and friends.

beach

2008-03-27T13:16:00.001-07:00

So Alisha asked me since I wasn't working to go to the beach with her while she was on her spring break. Hey, I am up for whatever these days. My life is an adventure. So I got us a place to stay(for free). Not the Hilton mind you, but free! Emily had a few days off too, so we went. It was a little chilly as you can see from the picture. Not the summer lay in your bathing suit type weather, but it was fun. We shopped and walked and slept and watched movies and ate donuts and had good food. It was fun mother daughter time. My only regret is that Sheila couldn't come. Life is a gift. I love it.

Easter

2008-03-22T17:10:00.001-07:00

Easter is here! I love this time of year. I love spring and the flowers and the sunshine and the trees getting buds. It all reflects new life. How appropriate that we celebrate the Lord's ressurection during the spring season. New Life! That is what we have when we believe in his birth, death and ressurection. I am grateful for the cross, and the empty tomb! How about you?

Time for work?

2008-03-17T12:27:00.000-07:00

I honestly don't know how this happens, but I am not working right now, although I am spending a lot of time on the computer looking for jobs and faxing my resume etc. I have so much that seems needing to be done around the house. How did it get done when I was working full time? I DON'T KNOW!!!! I have errands to run, like grocery shopping, shopping for wedding and shower gifts. The list goes on and on. I guess because I am around here, I notice the things that need doing. I told you in my last blog about the yard work. That is always a given in the spring. I have my normal cleaning and then I am also doing some sorting and giving away. When Alisha moved out it sort of pushed me to clean and organize. It seems like it is a never ending process, or maybe it is just because I move things from one room to the next and then I have to eventually deal with the junk. I hate junk. As I have aged, I have really purged my stuff. I emptied the attic for the most part(there is still more stuff) I cleaned out my closet, and things that I don't use much I am really getting to the point that if I haven't looked at it in a year I am giving it to Goodwill or someone who needs it. I am even to the point of selling most of my precious moments. If you are looking to buy some or all of them, let me know. I have given lots of stuff to the girls when they moved out. It is quite freeing. If you have trouble letting go of stuff that you don't even know you have, just take the plunge and let it go. It feels SO good! Plus it can help others greatly. What can be better than that?!! God didn't create us to live here and be stingy. If He has blessed us with so much that we cant even use it all, that is probably a sign that you should bless someone else who needs it.

Unemployed

2008-03-14T14:13:00.000-07:00

Here's what happens when you are unemployed! You start making work for yourself!!!!

working hard?

2008-03-13T15:29:00.000-07:00

I have been having a very nice time not working, but as I am home more, I see all the things that need doing. I am turning into a crazy woman. I cut down these huge bushes that are now as big as trees. They line the back yard and were so overgrown. Tom and I did half last year. I started to work on the other half. I have them cut down mostly, but I still have to cut them into manageable sizes for the city to haul them away. That seems to be the most work. Tom and I are gonna work on it together tomorrow. (His day off) The spring weather always gets me in the mood to do this kind of yard work. I pray for rain this year our lawn took a beating last summer. Anyway, I am enjoying my hard work for no pay!

Life is a gift

2008-03-09T13:56:00.000-07:00

What a special Gift God has given me in my granddaughter Olivia

And Olivia's mom

And aunt Alisha

And her Aunt Emily

We have so much fun together as a family. Laughter is ultimate, Eating is important, sharing time is so awesome. Shopping is good too!

Back in town

2008-03-05T08:30:00.000-08:00

I am back. I had a wonderful trip home to visit family. It was cold and I worked helping my brother in the barn and hoisted up my muscle performance a little. (carrying heavy milk pails to the bulk tank) I made some meals for my parents and brothers and played lots of games and took lots of naps. I visited some friends and just enjoyed looking at the farm where I grew up. I walked in the snow and breathed the fresh air. I enjoyed the sunsets and sunrises. In the city you dont see them most often. I feel renewed and refreshed even though I am a bit tired. I feel that I have a new perspective. I have to find a job and I know I will. It's not a race and it's not the end of the world if I dont find one today. I am embracing the farm life attitude of slow down, take time to talk and play, enjoy some laughter, and eat yourself silly!

MINNESOTA

2008-02-27T09:35:00.000-08:00

Guess What! I am in Minnesota and out in the country on my parents farm is not much chance to see what's happening in cyberspace. I went into town and thought after a week, that I need coffee. I went to the Coffee Company. (only coffee shop in town, that I can find) They have internet. I am sipping a white chocolate mocha, decaf and surfing the net. Life is good.

job hunt

2008-02-18T11:56:00.000-08:00

Here I am today looking for a job. I have my first interview in 15 years. I dont really know how this works anymore, but I am doing a group interview. (Whatever the heck that is) I wonder if I have to wrestle all the other prospective job hunters. Maybe we do rock, paper, scissors. Who knows. I dont, but I thought this would be a good opportunity to brush up on my interviewing skills.

Last night our pastor talked about being patient. I think he may have been talking directly to me. He also said do not SETTLE. Be patient and wait on God. I know he was talking to me. I dont have a job, but God sees my future and I am sure it has a great job for me otherwise maybe I will inherit a big sum of money and wont have to work.

So here I go........

Life can change at any moment

2008-02-13T11:49:00.000-08:00

I have had a little time to reflect on change. I am recently unemployed due to a lay off from my most recent job of 6 months. For 14 years before that I was at the same job. I felt like I needed a change and God seemed to open the door for my most recent job. Now 6 months later I am unemployed and it is a very strange feeling. I am free to do whatever I want with my time and yet I feel imprisoned in many ways. I probably wouldnt have to go to work, but our finances would be very tight until college is payed for. So I have to say" God what are you doing? Why do I find myself in this position. Did I make a mistake when I thought you were leading me to take this last job, or is this all part of a bigger plan to get me from point A to point C?" I dont know. For now I have to trust God. I know I always have to trust Him but it just becomes more evident when my life is certainly out of my control. I wish I could see down the road and know that this job thing has a good ending, but then in a way maybe it would scare me to see the end results. So the days that I thought my life was so routine are over. I have no idea what tomorrow will hold for me. I guess we never do. Life can change at any moment and then you think "WOW " how did I get here?

"O" my

2008-02-02T09:53:00.000-08:00

Need I say more!
Calling Grammy

Auntie Alisha

Me and mom

Auntie Emily

Poem from my sister

2008-01-31T12:13:00.000-08:00

As I said in my earlier blog people have always made my birthday special here is a poem my sister wrote for me to celebrate my birthday.

Poem for my treasured sister, SHARON BURGER, on her birthday

Sister of mine is kind and dear,
Heart for God each day of the year.
Always thoughtful and so sweet,
Ready hands and willing feet.
One in a million, she is treasured
Never could her worth be measured.

Born this day when I was ten
Unique and special she's been since then.
Really a dear sister and beautiful too,
Good-natured and fun, pretty through and through.
Each day I thank God for a sister so dear
Remembered especially this day of the year.

Love from Janette for me. I love her!

My birth

2008-01-31T12:01:00.002-08:00

Today is my birthday. I have always loved my birthday. For some reason it has always been special because people I love have always seemed to make such a great effort to make is so. When I was young my mom did things to make me feel like I was the most special one to ever be born. My friends would always do neat things for me. Then when I married Tom I hit the jackpot, because gift giving is his love language so I have always reaped the benefits of that. He has planned trips, gotten me flowers, taken me on great dinners and given me amazing gifts. My girls now that they are grown make a great effort to remember me on my day. I am so blessed to be born and chosen of God. My parents didnt abort me just because they had already 6 children. I love my day, January 31st. Last day of the first month. In the dead of winter how fun to have a special day to look forward to. God thank you for giving me life, salvation and alot of other extra's that I appreciate and thank you for. Happy Birthday to me!

Friday

2008-01-25T13:35:00.000-08:00

Today is friday and that means the beginning of the weekend. I cant wait for it to begin. My family will all be together and I look forward to that very much. As the girls have grown up and moved away and become adults, I treasure the time I have with them. We dont have to do anything special, just being together is special. Eating a meal. Laughing and telling stories and remembering funny things from the past and maybe if I get my way playing a game or two. Watching Olivia do the newest things that she has learned is always a good form of entertainment. We can sit for hours and enjoy that. What a blessing family is. God sure knew what He was doing when he made the family! I hope your weekend will be as special as mine.

Feelings

2008-01-22T06:28:00.000-08:00

How is it that feelings change so radically in me lately? Sometimes I feel on top of the world and sometimes I feel at the bottom of the food chain! As a believer I know that I should have joy all the time and for the most part I do. I dont however have happiness all the time. I have come to find out that when I am feeling down and like everything is wrong, I need to encourage myself in the Lord just as David did when everyone in Israel was against him. How do I do that?.....I start to praise God for all that He has done for me. I start to name and thank God all the blessings that I have seen and experienced in my life. It doesnt take more than a minute before I am back on top again. Not that I stay there, but at least I have a better perspective. Oh that I could live in that thankfulness and happiness all the time. For anyone reading this, please pray for me a spirit of joy and thankfulness all the time.

You show me the path of life. In your presence there is fullness of joy!
Psalm 16:11

chicken soup

2008-01-15T13:48:00.000-08:00

What is it about Chicken Soup that seems to make your worst day good. I made soup today for my sick Alisha. I know that it has been said that Chicken soup can heal your body. I think it can also heal your attitude and I like how it warms me up. So here's to chicken soup!

2008-01-15T13:40:00.000-08:00

A mind at peace

2008-01-12T09:58:00.000-08:00

A tranquil mind gives life to the flesh. Proverbs 14:30

Put your burdens in the Lord's hands and you will have a mind at peace and as a result your body will be healthy.

Anne of Green Gables

2008-01-09T07:15:00.000-08:00

Over the last few days of Emily's break we broke out the old VHS movie of Anne of Green Gables and Anne of Avonlea. If you have never watched these wonderful films, you need to. They will make you laugh,cry, wonder and imagine. It is clean viewing and such and inspiration for anyone of any age. It inspires me every time I watch it. I wish there were more films made like these.

My youngest daughter

2008-01-04T14:11:00.000-08:00

Just thought I would blog about my youngest daughter. She has been a little upset that there are no pictures of her in the house. The oldest has wedding and family pictures since she got married and had a baby. The middle girl was homecoming queen and we have pictures of her. Our granddaughter of course has many pictures throughout the house. I am really gonna work on getting her face up there, so I thought I would give her her own blog spot on my blog. This is her and her boyfriend the day before Christmas when we did presents with him. I think Emily is beautiful, creative, funny and very loving. She is my baby and will always be. I love her. Here's to Em!

Happy end of 2007

2007-12-29T10:33:00.000-08:00

I am just getting to the day that I think about the past year and get ready to say goodbye to 2007. I always feel a little nastalgic when it comes to the end of the year. I like the opportunity to start over with the new year. I usually mess up my good intentions by 3 o'clock on New Years Day, but at least it is a clean slate for a few hours. As I look at this past year I will remember it with fondness as I became a grandmother! It has been one of the best feelings I have ever had. I got to take a trip with Emily to visit my parents. Tom and I got to take Sheila, Andrew and Olivia to see my parents.(very cool) I quit my job of 14 years and took a chance to try something new.(Big change for me who sometimes does not like change) I experienced having Alisha, our college grad come home and live with us after a year of empty nest. This is a really big challenge sometimes. I still havent figured my role in this yet. I have spent a lot of the past months not feeling 100%. I dont know what the problem is. Some of it is hormonal for sure. Ya ya.... I am hitting that menapausel erra and not liking it too well. (enough of that) As I reflect on the year 2007 I once again must confess that I am so wonderfully blessed and can never thank God enough for all He has done for me. I dont know what 2008 will bring but I know that God is faithful in everything.

May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing. Romans 15.13

And a merry Christmas it was

2007-12-26T06:50:00.001-08:00

I had a wonderful Christmas with all those I love in Charlotte!

Holiday Hoopla

2007-12-19T10:11:00.001-08:00

I've been tagged for Holiday Hoopla whatever that is so I have to name 12 random things about Christmas. If you are reading this you have to do it too and tag someone else. Here goes.......
1. I love Christmas.....I hate Christmas....
2. I will clarify #1 I love what Christmas means(Jesus coming as a baby to earth) I love the family time, the songs and the wonder of the time. I hate the commercialism, the greediness, the crowds, the stress of getting everything done.
3. As a child I was deathly afraid of Santa. If I saw him coming I would freeze, hide or whatever to get away from him.
4. I make a ton of christmas cookies and many people like them very much.
5. I very much enjoy the scent of a fresh pine tree in the house.
6. I would rather give a gift and enjoy the person opening it rather than get a gift. Although I do love to get gifts too.
7. My favorite gift ever was a 2 liter of soda and a pint of sherbet. I come from a large family and gifts from parents were not huge. I just remember the year we each got a gift and our own bottle of POP (as we call it up north) and pint of sherbet. It was such a neat gift when I was around 8 years old.
8. My most embarrasing moment for christmas was when my gift from my parents was a scratchy ugly orange sweater and a pair of mittens. I was thinking to myself "what are my parents thinking giving me this as my gift for the year". I had a real attitude. I think I was about 12. My mom knew because my face betrayed my disappointment and she told me to put my hands in the mittens. I did it and behold there was $20.00 in the gloves! A lot of money back then. I felt sooooo ashamed! I have tried since to have a better attitude about what I get. Maybe that's why I like to give better.(I dont want my reaction to a gift to hurt anyone)see #6
9. I am married to a man that I used to call Mr. Christmas. He loved everything about it with the girls when they were little. He still loves it but I think sometimes he still wishes our girls were little and he could do the whole santa thing and all the trimmings and get excited about it.
10. My favorite Christmas hymn is O come all ye faithful. I love the part about O come let us adore Him.
11. I love sappy christmas movies and love to see new ones every year no matter how cheesy they are.
12. Tom and I started a christmas tradition our first year together for Christmas and I would have never thought it would be such a big deal but it is. We have pizza for our Christmas eve dinner. It has expanded over the years but it started out with Tom and I having french bread pizza, and to this year 28 years later we have had pizza and something every Chrismas eve.