Sturgills

Change has arrived...

2011-10-25T20:02:00.002-04:00

I haven't been posting to my blogger for some time now because of incompatibility issues with my windows 7/internet explorer 9.0 and blogger. I miss posting, so I thought with change in the wind why not fix my issues and begin posting again...so here we go.

Now let's look at change...

My blog just went through a change
My career is still going through change
My personal life is about to go through a big change
My stress levels will definitely be going through all sorts of change

Time has come for a new chapter in my life. The chapter titled two households for a while. I can do this. Army wives do this all the time. So tonight I am happy for the change and incredibly sad at the same time. Tears work for both occassions I guess.

One household living here...

Another household living here...

I hope I am up to the challenges ahead. I guess I have to be because this change will happen whether I'm ready or not.

The Million Dollar Question

2011-06-12T15:56:00.003-04:00

I decided to spend some time today reading other peoples blogs. At first I thought why, is their life so much “more” than mine. Then I stopped reading and began just looking at pictures. After a while, I came to a conclusion. It’s a make-believe blog world. Pictures don’t tell the whole truth, and words become whatever we write to make us look good in other people’s eyes.

My life’s ok. Do I wish I were beautiful, popular, rich, famous; sometimes. But sometimes, I’m really happy the way I am; just little ole me…plain, ordinary, barely making it and completely unknown. I’ve been looking at my life a lot lately. Did it turn out the way I had thought it would? No. Did it turn out the way other people thought it would? No. Would I want it any other way? Well, that's the million dollar question, isn't it?

I think what I want is my life the way it is but without the insecurities and looming failure. Sometimes I just wish life were easier and that the million dollar question would go away. Sometimes, I pray and wait for answers. And sometimes I just escape and read blogs in the make-believe world.

What about you?

Nothing like a little history to make me feel better.

2010-04-30T23:03:00.006-04:00

Did you miss me? Well, I'm back and here's what I've been up to since I was gone. Nothing like a little history to make me feel better.

A coworker who has become a good friend of mine went with me and my family to a sweet little town in the Cumberland Gap where he and my son participated as confederate soldiers in a Civil War reenactment. I loved this town. I loved this whole trip. So thank you Scott for inviting us. The last two photos taken above are of Scott and my son in Union uniforms.

Miss p"R"iss and the perfect life

2010-03-06T10:24:00.019-05:00

I have been thinking about going on hiatus for a while. Don't worry if I do it won't be too long. Me going on hiatus, I know that's a laugh because you say you're hardly on here anyway...thanks, really. Its just that I don't think anyone needs to hear me whine, complain, grouch and be ungrateful. I guess I'm going through something and it makes me depressed, sarcastic, and downright pissy. I know you don't want to be around that.

Question for you, have you ever read another person's blog and thought she/he is so perfect? Or the things she/he said in their blog really makes a difference. Its so thought provoking, world changing, happening relevant, or just downright brilliant. No? Then you won't understand my post most likely.

I'm going through a moment where I feel like everybody I meet, know or read about is perfect, more brilliant than I am. I feel like I can't do anything right. What happened to my perfection, brilliance? Did I ever have perfect which wraps around stunning? I know what my blessings are.

I understand that no one has the elite-perfect life. And yes, I realize this feeling won't last. Its just that sometimes I feel like a failure. Not the kind of failure where I didn't do it right, or could never do anything right; but the kind where I did it well, but it wasn't good enough...what happened to my perfect dang it all!!!?

Recently I'm having moments where I feel...

I have a handsome, kind, loving husband...Where is my greek adonis? Dirty, rotten, little deserter!

I have two super fantastic children...where is my third child? What happened to that? Don't guess I get mommy of the year!

I work in a challenging, rewarding career...why am I not a scientist working in my dream field? I'm not getting any younger you know! Pretty soon the chance is just going to pass me by. Oh no look I was wrong about pretty soon there it went years ago!

I own a beautiful, sufficient home...why is it always a work in progress and why isn't it bigger? Where's the big-bloody castle?

I own a great car with luxury...why can't I get the stupid air conditioner fixed (its under warranty you know)? Where's my BMW, Mercedes, etc.? Better yet where is my car of the week day.

I'm attractive. I have a good personality. I don't frighten children or animals. I'm your Camryn Manheim type. She's really attractive...why don't I have a curvy-hot body, silky long hair, amazing face. You know those killer types-Elizabeth Taylor, Angelina Jolie, Natalie Portman, etc.

And while we're on the topic of why am I not gorgeous, rich, famous, intelligent, loved by all and content with it all, why is it that everyone else is all those things?!!! Mercy I'm on a petty streak a mile wide and getting grouchier by the minute! Run Forest Run!!! Faster!

Ah, don't mind me. I'm just pitching a pissy-fit today. And no I don't mean hissy. Now you see why I might need to take a hiatus for a while. I'm not fit company anymore. I need to work on something; not the trivial things I've whined about in this post, but something deeper in my core.

Just ignore Miss p"R"iss today, she's all full of...well leave out the :) "R" and you get me.

2010 resolution or not

2010-01-24T09:32:00.004-05:00

It's been a while since I posted on here. I truly don't believe anyone (except you my faithful Dawn and Aunt Ethel) reads this thing anyway. In the passing of time much has happened. 2009 has come and gone, Halloween screamed its way out, Thanksgiving gobbled its way in and left, my wedding anniversay floated by, Christmas blinked in then out, New Year 2010 blazed in to stay for a while and Karen's 5th birthday twinkled into sight. I aged nicely which I enjoy, my hair grew longer which I like, my weight grew bigger which I don't mind, my family became closer which I love and I became closer to my Lord which is a blessing.

This new year I didn't make any new years resolutions because well I never keep them. I decided this year to just love who I am, where I've been and hope that what's in store where I'm headed has blessings and acceptance. Maybe that's a resolution in itself.

Thanksgiving 2009

Christmas 2009

Karen's 5th Birthday

My weight gain and reading glasses...aging is a learning experience!

And, the hair is growing! Gosh is my back huge!

Oh well, more to accept.

Holidays

2009-11-08T09:26:00.002-05:00

Halloween was great for our family. Karen dressed as a bumble bee and Bryan was dressed from the movie, Scream. They were so cute.

There's not much happening that isn't average. I guess everyday life is just that, average. I'm hosting a book fair for the next two weeks. I do this every year. This year I hope to switch places with three students. Let the student become the IMC specialist and me the student. They are very excited.

Dad and my brother are looking at homes to purchase in Tennessee with a Realtor. So far nothing has caught their fancy. When they find what their looking for, Dad is selling his place. I guess you can tell he has decided not to move in with us which is okay. Things move on...

Karen's bedroom redo

2009-10-05T16:13:00.007-04:00

Before

We are on our fall break. Last year we redecorated Bryan's room. He wanted a red, Chinese inspired room. He has been completely happy in his new environment. This year it was Karen's turn to get her room redecorated. Her favorite color is purple. She picked out the color. I always envisioned my kids rooms decorated the way I would have wanted it as a kid. That has not happened because guess what? I'm not a kid anymore. When did I grow up?

After

Next the basement. Maybe next year I will be able to redo our hideous bedroom!

And its just the beginning...

2009-08-29T17:10:00.005-04:00

We took our kids to a museum today and enjoyed a little relaxation, watching them have fun. Okay, we participate like kids ourselves and had a lot of fun. This little fox howling is me. I have felt like him all this week. Okay, Okay not howling...screaming silently. I had a rough week. So this weekend is just the ticket to calmness.

I walk near this contraption and my pulse begins to soar. But Karen and her dad had a blast.

Oh look I'm not screaming like Mr. Fox anymore. I'm actually a pleasant, person to look at. I knew this trip to the museum would do me much good.

I like this photo I took of the bulbs.

It's all in the touch and mathematics of course.

And this is mathematics, too. But it sounds a lot sweeter.

Why is he staring at me like that?

He saw a bear!!! Maybe we should run instead of just gawking...

Wow, its a mama lion... Hey, does she look hungry to you?

Pretty lights in the dark...

This is what happens when you have a big brother and you bother him until he goes all crazy on you...

Yep, those are my pants around my ears!

Look, I'm a beautiful rainbow...

Back to school, back to work, back to stress, back to horrid nightmares and its just the beginning of the school year... No, not the kids. Me. I'm the one with stress, nightmares and exhaustion once again. I love what I do, but there are days when it doesn't love me.

So, I find ways to relax, like coaching and traveling. Yeah, I know that would stress some, but it relaxes me. So the games have begun and let's have fun...

Don't my girls look great. They're a sharp team this year.

Time for School to begin

2009-08-01T18:07:00.008-04:00

Well I leave you with summer picture memories:

Summer for us is over.

Well, summer is not really over, but it is over in terms of school being out, travel, relaxation, no commitments, etc. This has been a good summer for me and my family. We were able to rest, visit with friends, go to powwows, civil war reenactments and some of my family went to amusement parks.

My children have grown up so much this summer it is exciting and sad at the same time. Exciting because Bryan has grown up to become a teenager with all the teenage issues now. Karen is asserting her independence even more than her usual. But sad because where did my babies go? Where does the time go?

Native American Pow Wow and Festival at Trade

2009-06-27T13:00:00.011-04:00

Happy Birthday to my husband, David who I love very much. This year, his birthday landed on the Trade festival and pow wow. He and I have been attending this festival since 1995. If you are ever interested in attending this festival here is the place to obtain more information http://www.tradedaysfestivaltn.com/index.html

My favorite time of the year is when the pow wows begin. Now what time of the year would that be you ask? Anytime, I would answer. Friday, June 26 was Hubby's birthday and the above pictured Native American pow wow festival at Trade. The festival happens for 3 days. We took the family and had a blast.

Karen, Jax (my son's best friend) and I joined in the dancing. The kids went rock climbing, mechanical bull riding, and play every out game at the festival. My dad was hit on by numerous women (dad the ladies man). And, when it was time to return home late that night we even brought back home with us, a car full of aliens (the green and purple skin kind).

And in this short video clip is Karen and me dancing...Can you find us?

Girls just wanna have fun

2009-06-10T19:36:00.004-04:00

The kids are out of school. I have some time off from work. It's time to relax and have some fun.

Mother's Day--Sunday

2009-05-09T08:22:00.007-04:00

It's a special month for me...my birthday, my mom's birthday & our mother's day:

Time is passing...My birthday was on May 1 and has come and gone. I am another day older. And, I hope another day wiser for the process. I had a blessed birthday. Every day I have is blessed because I have my Lord with me, my family surrounds me, and friends think of me.

I did receive many special things on my important day from hugs, kind words, special cards, great e-wishes, and many thoughts unsaid to prettily wrapped gifts. They were all beautiful and greatly appreciated.

One gift in particular from my father and brother I especially loved. I collect skulls (odd hobby I know) and was given a beautiful life-size crystal glass skull. It took the artist a long time to make and cure this item. Crystal skulls can vary in size from a tiny size to the size of a human head like mine. The age of a skull can be determined not necessarily by the year it was carved, or the place of its origin, but to the age of the crystal from which it was created. This is because some crystals are thousands of years old, while other crystals are younger. Anyway isn't he amazing.

My mother's birthday is the day after mine. I was at her home for her special day. It was a beautiful sunny day. There were no gifts. She didn't say anything to me. I could not see her. But I said five important words to her spirit...Happy birthday, I love you. It was at that moment when the lights flickered and went out and a minute later when they came back on. Touched my an angel, surrounded by my mom's spirit, granted ease by my Lord, faulty wiring, freaky bulbs, any number of explanations could abound. But I believe my Lord touched my spirit to let me know his arm was around me at this very moment in time while I missed my mom on her birthday. You believe what you want, but I hope you will join me someday in my faith in my Master. Even if there is a worldly explanation, my Master's arms were around me.

On this Mother's day, I know I won't be alone in life or spirit. How could I ever be alone when I am blessed so very much. May you be blessed on this very special day. May your faith allow you to see miracles in the little things in life. May your day be happy, healthy, and most of all spiritual.

What did she say?

2009-04-11T17:35:00.011-04:00

I wish you a blessing on this Easter Holiday. Have a safe, healthy, happy, spiritual day!

I haven't posted in a while due to a few reasons.

First, my computer has a blasted virus called vundo. This pain in the you know where virus is one aggravating computer bundle of pleasure. May the makers of vundo spill coffee on their computer! Oh and may sparks leap out of their terminals with rising smoke causing total screen blackness and breakage!

Second, work has been encompassing all my energy. I have felt abandoned due to circumstances out of my control and apparently the control of those around me. Budgets are closing and accounting is due, when guess what? Yes, that's right another completely different virus strikes my work computers shutting us down for days on end. This little virus is called confliker downadup worm. Even when we get the computer network back and clean, my accounting computer crashes for good. Bye, bye account access for a while.

Third, on top of all this my faithful assistant goes home, happy and healthy only to have a massive gallbladder attack that night leading to hospitalization and emergency surgery. So, she's out of work for a while and a week later I get a note from the guy in accounting who helps with my accounts and payments. He's next on the surgical line and will be out of commission for a while. Let's count, I think I'm beyond a home run for trouble: two computers out, two work-mates out.

Fourth, I find that I have a lovely little thing called anemia. No wonder I feel exhausted, confused, and lost all the time. And yes, there are other symptoms I have been experiencing this last year; but I'll spare you dear reader.
So let's all welcome me to the perimenopausal and rheumatoid arthritis party. Did you know that perimenopause can cause anemia? Did you know that rheumatoid arthritis can cause anemia? Yes, either is able to knock your socks off all by themselves. But I get the double whammy. Now let's put the two together and watch them have a field day in my body. But I am happy. Want to know why? Because my symptoms have been so bad that my children have worried that the car accident did more damage than we thought and was affecting my mental ability to remember things. And I was worried that I had the onset of Alzheimer's which runs in my family. Anyway everything is fine and I'll try to keep you posted after a few more doctor appointments.

And here it was that I often thought I don't have anything worth writing about. I think my life is pretty dull and boring. Dialogue in my head..."How come you don't post more often?" "Cause nothings happening and its boring to write about nothing."

Spring Break Week

2009-03-19T18:46:00.005-04:00

This has been our spring break week. No school, no work, just rest, relaxation and fun.

Bry has had a friend over every day. Mostly they have hung out at home, but occasionally we have taken the kiddos out places.

Kare' and I have been making jewelry for days and it has turned out pretty good. I have been making jewelry for years. And before you ask, no I don't sell my pieces, I don't have time. That would be a full time job and I already have a full time plus job.

In the morn, I plan to travel to dad's for a visit. I have also scheduled a hair appoint with my beauty queen. Donna has been doing my hair since I was a young girl. She wasn't much more than a young girl herself when she began doing my hair. I have semi-straight hair (when I paddle brush it straight with a hot blow dryer and the use a straightener). I have been thinking of a perm, but to do this I need to cut layers into my hair. I don't really want layers. How's a girl to have it all. I want curls. I want it straight. I want it long. I want it short. Basically, I'm fickle. Nah, not fickle, just experimental. At least I use to be anyway. Seems like in my old age I'm beginning to step off the fashion train. Maybe its time to shake things up a bit, I said maybe, we'll see.

Ok I have 12 hours or so to decide what to do to my hair. I want to keep it growing long, but it needs a kick. Ok, I want a kick of some sort. What to do, what to do?

Someone is a teenager!

2009-03-08T18:59:00.004-04:00

Yesterday was my son's big teenage birthday. No more little boy. He makes his first steps into the world of being a teen...ok less dramatic, he's growing up. Happy birthday to my awesome son. We celebrated with his grandparents and basically enjoyed being together.

And while you read this, please pray for my cousin and his family. Russell is military and has just been sent to serve in Afghanistan. He leaves his wife and boys home awaiting his return. Pray for safety for all our men and women serving.

Much ado about much ado

2009-03-01T07:58:00.012-05:00

I have had a fantastic year as cheer coach/sponsor. The games were great fun, being in work mode and hanging out with people who have become good friends.

This is the end of our 2008-09 cheerleader season. Funny when you tell people this season is over they assume that means a break for you. Not so, now its time to begin planning for the tryouts for the 2009-10 team which will take place in a couple weeks. Then summer training begins and camps. We'll be back into full swing without ever having slowed down. So here is a fond farewell to our girls this season. Its great to look back over all the hundreds of photos and see how much they have grown, not only in the physical measure, but as a team. I am so proud of them. Our kids rock!

This is my son's last year on his basketball team. He has decided not to play on a team anymore. He said he wants to concentrate more on computers and digital media. In a way I am saddened and yet there is a part of me saying "whew that means more time for other pursuits in life". With me coaching our world revolves around game after game weekly, all year long. When you cheer, its all year long. Just when you think there will be a break from one sport another takes off. Add my hectic schedule to that of my kids playing a sport... son in basketball, daughter in cheer and gymnastics and we don't have time for anything else.

And now for the rest of the story I promised the post before this...

I'm sitting with my teenage son discussing his classes, grades, etc (which are really good--honor roll student) when his sister comes into the room and bounces beside us causing me to look up at her. First thing I notice is she has bangs, again! I exclaim, "Who cut your hair?" She sweetly replies, "I did." We have been growing this child's hair it seems like forever. It grows really slow. She was able to tuck it behind her ears and have a french braid finally. Now its back to ponytails and more growing. But in her defense she did a really good job. I was impressed. And yes the scissors have been put under lock and key.

Before the haircut, notice no bangs and longer pieces around the face...

Notice after the haircut she has shortened bangs and hair pieces around the face.

Lots to talk about and soon

2009-02-14T07:11:00.008-05:00

I have caught the flu...give me time to rest and feel well and I will tell the story and put on some photos soon.

Happy Valentines day to everyone out there.

Just a quick note. I promise to come back in a day or two and put the photos and tell the rest of the story.

Happy Birthday to my fantastic brother.

I love you, bro. I am headed to his state to celebrate with the family.

And my daughter has put another gray hair in my head...story to follow soon. This will be good. Here' a hint at what I found when I got home from work yesterday.

Consider yourself tagged!

2009-02-04T06:04:00.002-05:00

Rules: Once you've been tagged, you are supposed to write a note with 25 random things, facts, habits, or goals about you. At the end, choose 25 people to be tagged. You have to tag the person who tagged you. If I tagged you, it's because I want to know more about you.

(If you don't feel like keeping this going, I understand. If you decide to play along, drop me a note to let me know. I would love to know you better.)

1. I am married to my best friend. He was my best-friend for 5 years before he decided to ask if I would marry him. We have been married for 23 years. I love him more every day.

2. I have two children: a teenage son and 4 year old daughter.

3. I am a private person (difficult to get to know). Once you get to know me I am a loyal friend for life. Basically, I am a mystery to many and old news to a few.

4. I have been dancing since the age of two. I still belly dance for recreation to this day.

5. I teach for a living because I love kids. I truly believe in our kids, all of them.

6. I have survived serious car accident which left me with some brain damage (I am missing memories of my life which include remembering what I looked liked before the accident. I also don't remember some people and places). I am happier and healthier since the car accident. It changed my life literally.

7. My family is Chinese-American. I am also Native American and British.

8. Growing up, I was always jealous of my female cousin because I thought she looked Native American and I didn't. I love this cousin dearly.

9. When people ask me for my age I always tell them I'm 92.

10. I have lived in Virginia, Colorado and Tennessee.

11. I would like to live in the four corners. I try to visit there every few years. Last time I was there was year before last.

12. I always wanted three children, but that didn't happen.

13. I grew up on a small farm. We had a smoke house, well house, chickens, pigs, grew our own food--beans, potatoes, corn, etc.

14. I am still afraid of the closet monster. Some things I refuse to grow out of.

15. I have so much more to give and yet so little time to do all I plan. I guess that's how it is for many people.

16. I do all I can to help people and feel its never enough.

17. I am not very humble, but wish I was.

18. I rarely remember my dreams which to me seems like I never dream.

19. I have been to China and loved it.

20. I would love to return to China to live for a while when my children are a little older. I would like to teach there. Wait until my hubby hears this. Wonder if he would go with me?

21. I have a dog and a cat.

22. I am a huge fan of UNMATA and Massari.

23. I am a religious person, but intensely private about my beliefs. Only my family and close friends know my spiritual path.

24. Okay, nobody laugh...My life's dream was to be a Sky Marshall. Sometimes your dreams don't come true and your happy about it. That's me.

25. I lead a quiet, drama free life coupled with being a private person. This made the "25 things about me" difficult to fill out.

Saying goodbye

2009-01-17T10:39:00.010-05:00

Goodbye to 2008

Hello 2009...

2008 brought many changes in my life, not the least of which was the physical changes:

Me before weight loss-Whoa, she's blonde

Me after weight loss-What? Now she's red! and 20 lbs. lighter

But one thing stayed the same...
The People I love were here with me.

2008 left me thinner because of my new way of life, treating myself better. It tightened our belts because of the economy. It took people I knew out of my life to become only a memory. It gave to me people I love to make more memories with. It gave strength to my marriage. It placed my son is a good school with new friends. It placed my daughter in a gymnastic program she completely loves. It brought me closer to the people. It gave me the time I needed to become closer to my SAVIOR.

Yes, 2008 was a wonderful, difficult, blessed year for my family. We experienced all life offers: living, dying, smiling, crying, prosperity, and economic loss. We gave thanks to HIM for everything HE gave to us and everything HE took away.

And now I say goodbye to 2008 and hello to 2009.

Love it...Love it.

2008-12-28T12:52:00.004-05:00

Christmas was wonderful, even if I was sick and slowly beginning to bounce back from the killer virus. I am beginning to gain back my strength and weight. Here are our Christmas photos. Oh and I always wear my favorite robe on Christmas. Be prepared--no makeup, pale, hair uncombed its quite a sight...hey its 7:00am if you're beautiful at that time, wow...I'm impressed, even envious somewhat.

One bad virus!

2008-12-18T19:22:00.007-05:00

What does this picture,

and this picture

have in common?

The answer is this lovely picture.

How can something so lovely be so deadly?

Well let me tell you...

For the last two days I have been home, wrestled to the ground, crawling to the toilet (not pretty I know), throwing up my guts (I know you didn't ask for it), barely able to put my other side to the toilet (oh, yes she went there).

I have lost 7 pounds in body fluid, that's not body fat (that's moisture I needed). My skin has turned to a dry prune (well almost). I have been in such pain from head to toe; and yes hair can hurt!

I have had that beautiful, pointy-little virus try to kill me and I lived to blog about it. I hurt so much that the one and only thing that made me feel better (moaning) I didn't have the energy to do. I missed two days of work. I'm still not completely well, but tomorrow I will return to work.

Ha! Take that virus...I win!

No photos this time, just words...

2008-12-04T16:51:00.003-05:00

I love art, photography, and music. I often find artists, photographers, and musicians who have amazing pieces of work. I want to blog about about a somewhat new friend I have met out in tech-no-land. His name is Mark and his photography is something you must see.

Mark's work is in one word, inspirational for him and for his viewers. His photographs have a magnifying quality that in a highly creative way with touching simplicity draw you to a deeper level of meaning in life. I am able to sit quietly looking at his photographs and find new beauty, inner peace, and outward acceptance. I visit his blog whenever I get a chance, just to see things in a new light; to see what someone else sees that I may have missed.

I'm looking for the dichotomy in life, it's there all around us and yet I pass by it without knowing it ever existed. Sometimes other's help me to slow down and open my mind. They help without ever knowing they have touched another soul. I wanted Mark to know I benefit through his quest. Thank you, Mark for searching.

If you would like to see Mark's work, his blog is located on my sidebar and is accessible by clicking on this link: As I See It 2008

What's happening---Fall

2008-11-09T09:30:00.008-05:00

Guess what's doing on at work these next two weeks? First basketball season is upon us, so cheerleading at least two times a week for the games and maybe one practice a week thrown in if needed as well. Plus along with all my Media Center duties I am holding a fantastic book fair. Take a look at some of the contests the kids have come up with in the photos. I have even agreed to go pink if we meet out goals this year. At first I was going to dye my hair pink, but my stylist said if I did that it would stay pink for a truly long time (not an option since we have a serious dress code), so looks like a wig for a while. I have found a nice one see what you think?

Halloween has passed, but the kids looked too cute to not post, and look at all the beautiful fall color around my home. I love fall and winter, of course spring and summer are not too shabby either. Guess I love it all year here!

...enjoy!

The peace journey - The altered path

2008-10-27T21:50:00.003-04:00

I am on a path of introspection.

I have been thinking about the blood running though my veins. What identifies me? I am the whole of many parts. Some I am proud of and others I am ashamed of and sadly some I long to discover more in-depth, but am not allowed to acknowledge. Some parts lie hidden in the unacknowledged haze. Some parts exist buried deeply in ire; lying dormant waiting for their day of reckoning.

I have the blood of others running through my veins and yet it is my blood I am alienated from. I am angry tonight. It is rare when I am angry at things which can not be changed. I am a creature of the path I choose and yet there are times when the path has all but completely disappeared, obscured by the narrow mindedness of others.

Sometimes my path is straight and finding my way is easy. Other times the path meanders and I lose touch with my footing. And there are times when the path is not mine to choose. Even times when the path and choosing are mine, but my choice to walk the path is halted. Sometimes my path a difficult one to tread.

What do you do when your path is tangled, when your path is a whist of smoke on the wind? How do you fight the war within and redefine yourself with acceptance when the back is turned away?

Projects and Happenings!

2008-10-19T08:36:00.009-04:00

Shopping yesterday was relaxing for me. I purchased Christmas ornaments, a gorgeous pepper plant and looked for fall decorations for my media center. I took Karen with me. She's my little shopping buddy. Bryan stayed home and worked on a temple project for social studies class.

He's creating this project out of folded paper. It looks amazing if I do say so myself. He will complete the project in the next 10 days.

Some things linger

2008-10-18T09:34:00.007-04:00

I actually sat behind this steering wheel trapped by the metal and glass.

It's been over a year since my car accident; however yesterday I had a doctor's appointment to remove large pieces of glass (from that wreck) from my arm. I have a few stitches to get removed in 10 days. Doc said that more glass may still be in my arm, foot and maybe in the back of my head. She said we will remove those pieces if they begin to bother me as much as these removed pieces did.

Dear hubby asked me yesterday why couldn't I let my accident live in the past...I replied, some things want to linger--like the glass in my body. It's difficult when family and friends ask me, "you remember..." and I honestly don't remember. But they say, "sure you do, you know..." but I don't and I replied that my accident erased that from me. He said, "how long are you going to use your accident as a crutch?"

How would you like it if I just picked a stranger out of a crowd or a place you've never been to and I said, "remember how you and Andy went to the Japan together last year for a month?" If you've got no memory as if it never happened, jogging my memory won't work. It's like me trying to convince you that you and that stranger Andy went to Japan. I'm sorry to whine on here, but it bothered me when dear hubby asked me why I used the accident as a crutch for not remembering something!

I don't want to use the accident as an excuse, but it happened and this is why I have missing links in my memory today. And no, trying to convince me I do remember is not going to change the fact that I really don't remember...anymore that saying my arm hurt because of scar tissue---it's glass people brought on by that accident!

Maybe I do use the accident as an excuse, but pretending it didn't happen doesn't change the fact that it did. I feel better...Now that I've got that off my mind, I'm off shopping today and dear hubby is forgiven.

Make the most of this second

2008-10-11T18:42:00.011-04:00

The ribbon of life is ever changing and here for only a short time:

I have a sad heart. I have lost a co-worker and good friend. He passed away extremely suddenly. On Wednesday afternoon he was with me smiling, joking and creating happy memories and later that night he had what appeared to be a massive stroke. I am in shock and denial. I will miss him so much. My co-workers are like brothers and sisters to me. We are a close knit family at work. I am blessed in too many ways to count.

My friend has left behind a grieving wife, children and grandchildren. He was only in his 50's, too young to leave this world behind. I know that the place he goes to is much better and that our Lord has prepared a place for him in heaven. Please pray for his family who are especially heartbroken and grieving terribly.

I will be attending his funeral tomorrow to say a final goodbye to a wonderful man. Sometimes it is truly brought home how precious and uncertain this life can be. We may be smiling one minute and taken to tears the next without any warning. Tonight tell your family how much you love them. Tell your friends how much you care about them. This second is all you really have so make the most of it.

Let's do it again!

2008-10-04T13:58:00.015-04:00

What a nice trip and wonderful visit with family. We love visiting Lynchburg, Appomattox, and Red House, Virginia.

Did you know that Lynchburg is located in the eastern foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains in Central Virginia? Or did you know that Lynchburg began its history on the founding of the James River in the 1760's by John Lynch as "Lynch's Ferry." Today, Lynchburg has various economic companies to support the people, four private colleges, one public college, and two big hospitals. More information on Lynchburg can be found by clicking on this link--Lynchburg Attractions.

Did you know that Appomattox is located in the middle between Lynchburg to the west and Farmville to the east? Or did you know that Appomattox began its history with two big events: (1) The 1865 battle of Appomattox station located in the restored railroad depot. This battle pertained to General George Custer capturing General Robert E. Lee's train of food and supplies. The battle was of mass importance leading to (2) the surrender of Robert E. Lee's army to Ulysses S. Grant bringing an end to the Civil War. More information on Appomattox can be found by clicking on this link--Appomattox Attractions.

Did you know Red House is located 12 miles outside of Appomattox Virginia? Or did you know that Red House is a small village located at a crossroads. Smack in the middle of this cross road is the post office, a small country grocery store, and a slightly larger truck stop with multiple gas pumps. Red House is very beautiful, quiet and relaxing in its simplicity. This is the place I may retire to someday. For more information on Red House I suggest you plan a visit as this tiny hamlet has limited information on the internet.

Meanwhile enjoy some of the photos from our fantastic visit.

Cheerleading

2008-09-26T21:55:00.004-04:00

Packing for my road trip...heading out in the morning for dad's, then off to get my hair done(I am a girl after all)...got a homecoming game that night, then plan to become a gypsy on the move to places. I should eventually make it to Aunt E's by Wednesday. I hope to relax.relax.relax.

In the meantime I thought I would share some photos from a recent game our girls cheered. The girls have been practicing and the games have been lots of fun. I am so proud of our lady redskins!

We've Got Spirit!

Road Trip...

2008-09-23T21:28:00.009-04:00

When to stop the insanity?

Where am I headed to these days? It's finally happened...I have to be in two places at the same time. And I am insanely going to try! I need to change my pace or something. I'm exhausted--Maybe I just need some rest. Honestly, I don't think that's the answer. But I like to lie to myself now and again. It keeps me going when I don't know where I'm headed. It's just that there are no real answers. Sometimes its about going forward even when I would rather stop. [Update: I pulled it off with help from my co-workers. I have great co-workers who I can always count on in a pinch]

The nice thing I plan to do to help me relax is to take a special road trip with my family and especially my dad. We're headed to see Aunt Ethel (dad's sis) and as my son calls her "aunt" Lisa (Ethel's daughter). These two women are so important in my life. It will be so wonderful to see them again. One thing I am blessed with is strong family roots. I plan to take lots of pictures. I plan to rest mentally...a good mental cleansing. Ok as close to a mental cleansing as a workaholic can get. [Update: We get to spend a couple of days with them as the have to work...this will be so great]

See, here is the crux of my problem...as a workaholic, I can't go one day without checking my work email or taking my cell phone so they can reach me. How can I go a solid week without checking in at the office? Well the answer is that I can't. The guilt would rise up and eat me alive...so I will check in, but I plan to be too far away to actually go in to the office should the need arise. See that's why I'm exhausted. I keep pushing myself and apparently I don't know when to stop the insanity. [Update: I will post how many times I check in at work--let's see if I truly can't go cold turkery!]

2008-09-18T21:22:00.004-04:00

Sketch Me

Sorry I haven't posted lately...so busy.

Sometimes when I post, nothing seems to be going on and other times so much is going on that I'm too exhausted to write. Often I don't leave work until I have put in a 10 hour day and football games have begun. I enjoy what I do, but I am exhausted all the time.

On game days I put in a 14 hour work day. I take work home and also help my kids with their work. And a little part of me knows that I contribute and make a difference, but I still come away feeling as if I need to make more of a difference so I need to give more of myself.

The problem is where do I find more of me to give? Have you ever felt like what you do is not enough? I do, often.

Feeling better

2008-08-31T19:14:00.006-04:00

I am not truly well, but I am feeling better...I'm on a three day vacation. It's nice to max and relax.

I have been catching up with my blog buddies.

Amanda over at Bloggin' Natalie wrote a moving blog for the mommies. It rings so true.

And my pal Lisa is getting ready to be on the move--she's listing her house. I wish her luck and energy. Lisa has 6 kiddos, that's a lot of boxes. You can visit her over at Loos Locos.

Oh and I can't forget Wil who is one busy man over at WWdN: In Exile. Wil is a writing frenzy.

Then there's Dawn over at Dawn Writes who has the kids back in school.

And Steph over at For the love of Sam who has such courage for posting oldie photos of herself and others...right, Dawn.

Then" little ole relaxing and blogging about others I admire", me. If you get a chance go visit these wonderful people and read about their world. Wil will especially appreciate it.

2008-08-25T20:22:00.006-04:00

Quick update

I ended up in the emergency room today. My doctor called me at work and said to take myself to the emergency room immediately. An EKG and CAT Scan later, I have meds to take. Meds that make me feel way spaced out and weird. Now how am I going to work! I nearly had a heart attack due to the scare at the hospital. Just you wait and see, blood pressure meds will be the next step.

Ever need to post and feel like, oh man do I have to? I am not feeling well lately and the only thing on my mind is rest. Don't know what's wrong, but I have been very light-headed and experiencing nausea for the past few days. I have called my doctor for an appointment and am waiting to see when I can get in to see her.

Bryan is doing well in school. The adjustment was rough, but worth it. His grades are great and he is slowly making acquaintances in school.

Karen is doing well in her school. Last week she went to the 4 year old Pre-k program (she's only 3) to prepare for movement into kindergarten. I don't know if we will place her in kindergarten early even if she is ready.

Right now all I look forward to is less stress and less illness in the family.

quick update

2008-08-14T20:05:00.002-04:00

Just have a few moments for a quick update on how we are doing:

Bryan is trying to adjust, what choice does he have really? He is making good grades, but worries about it all the time. His teachers think that he is a great kid and I wholeheartedly agree. He is trying to make new friends, but it is slow going. I hope everyone keeps praying for our transitions.

I continue to lose pounds and even have been told I am looking younger and happier. I have more energy which is a good thing since I seem to need it this year more than ever before.

I will post more this weekend.

Oh the stress

2008-08-09T18:30:00.003-04:00

This has been the toughest week on me and my family. We began school--

Have you ever been the new kid at school. Imagine no one knows you, you don't know the routines, you miss your old friends, you feel lost and alone. It's difficult to smile because you're so sad, hard to concentrate because your mind is racing and to top it off your gut is in knots and you feel like each day is a trial waiting to punish you. That's how my son has felt this whole past week at his new school. My heart is breaking for him. Please pray for our Lord to help him get through this new experience with renewed strength and resolve. Pray for all our children struggling through pain and fear.

I am so busy that I have found my self going out the door while meeting myself coming in the door. Every day I have been working 10 and 11 hours at work only to come home and put in 2 or 3 more hours at home preparing for the next day. I don't think this will stop until we near the end of the school year. And I have lost a couple of friends at work this week. I miss them so much already. I'm sure that more will be leaving in time. Things are getting difficult to say the least.

Oh the stress...

Dye-ing to tell

2008-07-29T18:56:00.004-04:00

I made the decision last Saturday to take my chances with hair dye once again. I had no reaction to the dye this time. So guess what color I am now. But before I tell you, before I show you, before I go any further...here's the story.

Last July I was in a serious car accident. I know you know this. But what many of you don't know is that when I woke up in the hospital I was a different person. My first look in the mirror was more than surprising or even shocking. The person looking back at me was a stranger. Where was I? What happened to me? I honestly didn't know I was a blonde until I looked in the hospital mirror. All I knew was that the person looking back was not who I saw in my mind's eye.

Well its been a year since the accident and I have chosen to change my hair color to the color I see in my mind's eye. Now its the one familiar piece of me I recognize each time I look in the mirror.

So here's the "old" me...

Well the "new" me...

Ok just "me"... and the picture doesn't do my hair color justice. Its not brown, its red!

The definition of work--Ok maybe not

2008-07-22T18:37:00.006-04:00

This week I have been involved with cheer camp. I love working with our young adults. Cheer camp has been the most fun. The ladies are learning a great deal about cheers/chants/stunts/camaraderie. This will be an exciting year ahead for me and for our girls.

Next week I begin in-service duties. So actually I begin work again next Monday. Our first day back into the swing of things will be August 4. Bryan has been accepted to attend the school where I work. He would want to attend this particular school whether I worked there or not. It's a great school. He's growing up so fast. Seems like only yesterday I held my baby in my arms and today he could pick me up like the baby,but I couldn't him.

I am beginning to lose more weight since I am eating healthy again. I have lost another 3 pounds in the last two days. The amazing measurements are how many inches I have lost overall. I have lost 13 inches! Remember when I first began to post about wanting to lose weight around mother's day? I stated that my shirt would not button if said shirt was fitted to my waist. Well guess what it still won't. I am becoming top heavy as they say. Why can't I lost weight in my chest? My waist is dropping, my bottom is dropping, my thighs are tiny and tight, but my chest is living large as usual. Yea, yea aren't I lucky? Not!

Oh and I have made a horrifying discovery. I love my salon visits. I like to color my hair...what you thought it was natural. Ok maybe you knew better. Anyway, I am apparently allergic to the hair dye. Now what? I'm sorry I don't want to be blonde for the rest of my life. See I can be blonder since I can add highlights to my hair, but can't be darker...especially, the darker ash to brown blonde I like. What's my natural hair color? I am what you call a dirty blonde (talking about hair color people) . This may not seem like a terrible thing to many but I'm not 16 anymore with perfect hair. I have matured and now I am experiencing striking gray sunshine. The gray is ok until you pair it with the dirty blonde--now I look dull and tired, the formula for too old for me. Yea, yea aren't I lucky? Not!

What's a girl to do? Maintenance is a pain! Plus I harbor no delusions about being natural or low maintenance. Being a girl means work, even to get that natural and low maintenance look.

Doofus times two!

2008-07-17T22:02:00.007-04:00

I have discovered I am a doofus and my hubby is a doofus, also. That makes us a doofus times two. And yes, I have numerous quantifiable excuses I could make; but even in the end I think it still leaves us a doofus times 2. Here is why:

Last May we sold our home and moved to another home closer to my work. So many fine reasons to move. We toured said home and made an acceptable offer. We moved into our fabulous new home. Everything was wonderful, well except for the exceptions coming from our master bath. The list of exceptions:

1. from our bath we could hear the neighbors talking as if they were in the room with us.
2. from our bath we could find leaves floating around the room.
3. from our bath we could feel the heat if it was hot outside.
4. from our bath we could feel the freezing cold if it was cold outside.
5. from our bath we could have all the annoying mosquitoes or bugs we wanted.

and the list doesn't stop there, but you get the picture.

Things we checked to solve the exceptions:

1. in our bath we checked the bottom windows to be sure they were properly latched
2. in our bath we checked the heating and cooling system
3. outside our bath window we cut back the trees

Conclusion we reached:

1. bad windows we needed to replace.
2. insanity we imagined it. After all, bugs could fly in from any open door, leaves could be carried in from feet, etc.
3. poor insulation we needed to upgrade.

Then today while getting out of my car I just happened to look up to the sky and made a million dollar discovery, the doofus factor. I saw the top of my bathroom windows with crystal clarity. I couldn't believe what I was seeing. I had to look twice, ok three times and really squint my eyes. Then I asked my hubby and even the kids to confirm what I was seeing was real. The top portion of my bathroom windows were open about four inches, all of the three windows. I swear in all the time we have been in the house not any of us have ever thought to check the top portion of our double hung windows.
Double hung windows

So dear hubby went into the house, closed the windows and guess what? The noise stopped, the heating and cooling resolved and I'm willing to go out on a limb here and speculate that the leaves and bugs problem will float (fly) out(side) the windows too.

Think about it, 11 months with open windows through the rain, snow, heat and wind--yep, doofus times two!

And you ask how long have you been a home owner? Ha, Ha!

My new purchase

2008-07-14T23:44:00.003-04:00

I have been away for the last two weeks. My dad became ill and I went to stay with him. He has internet service, but the connection is so slow and unable to allow me to blog. Now I can post and let you know what has been going on.

First I love my dad and would do anything for him. I just didn't know that meant gaining my weight back. I went to his home and gained 6 pounds! Now I have to work even harder to lose those pounds and get back on track once again. There are moments I feel as if I must choose between eating and living thin. I want to be healthy, look well, and most of all feel good inside. But let's face it there are times when it is nice to have a bit of sport with food. Course now I have to pay the fine, so to speak.

Also while at my dad's home, my hubby and son ride motorcycles. Yesterday, Karen decided to climbed on her brother's bike without permission and received a nasty burn on her leg. She will have a scar, but it should fade away as she gets older. It was a very nasty burn.

Three days ago I found the automobile I wanted and had it shipped to my local dealer. I love my new purchase. We have named the auto...Alex (short for Alexandra). Why? The car talks. She has a female voice and is responsive to us. I love electronics and especially love robotics and computer chips.

Dad's doc is taking good care of him. Let's just say dad is doing as well as can be expected. Time is what is needed to see if his breathing will stabilize. Family and close friends if you wish to know more about dad's condition please email and we will chat privately.

I can't believe it in two weeks I will be back to work full time and my kiddos will be back in school. The summer time just keeps getting shorter and shorter.

Happenings-car shopping!

2008-07-01T11:25:00.008-04:00

Anyone who knows my career choice knows that during the summer work is sporadic for me. I went in to the office yesterday, but today I am free. For 8 weeks other than being called, emailed or asked to come in to work when needed, I have free time to rest and take care of business at home. Then for then next 10 months I am as busy as a bee working long hours at my job. I enjoy my job. Its stressful, difficult and rewarding.

At work yesterday, I was talking to a close colleague about automobile shopping. She and I are both searching for that perfect four wheel containment unit. For months now I have been looking, test driving and nothing has captivated my attention. Then last week, I finally found the vehicle I fell in love with only to have it sold out from under me the day before I could get back to the dealer and purchase it. I could order one, but I'd much rather it be on the lot. Wonder what that makes the moral of this story? Don't know...So I'm back in the hunt.

Perhaps I will find the auto of my desires with another dealership or perhaps I will find another vehicle altogether to love, makes no real difference to me because I'm in no hurry (I know that drives the dealers nuts).

A night for sad news

2008-06-28T23:30:00.006-04:00

We just got home from visiting my dad and had a phone message from our vet. Our sheltie, Chloe has cushing's disease (hyperadrenocorticism) and needs to begin treatment immediately. I knew something was wrong when she began to show odd symptoms. She would drink more water than usual and began to have accidents. She was gaining weigh and still seemed to be starving even though she was eating all the time. But scariest of all is that she couldn't get up after laying down and she would pant so hard I thought her lungs were collapsing. She would look at me with these pitiful, little, sad eyes that seem to say I don't feel good please help me. It would break my heart and I didn't know what to do to help her. At least now we know and can begin to help.

And speaking of lungs, my dad isn't doing so well lately. His breathing is becoming more difficult and it has me very worried. He has an appointment with his doctor scheduled for the 14th which I plan to attend with him. Dad only has one lung and when its not functioning well, I start to panic. L. & D. W. don't worry about my dad. I'll keep you guys posted so you can let his baby sister know how he's doing.

The really sad news tonight is from a friend. A friend email saying her Aunt had died suddenly yesterday. The aunt died while holding her little niece (my friends' daughter) in her arms. Please say prayers for this family if you are reading this. They need it so much. This was a total shock and is heart breaking.

Everyone take care of yourselves tonight and in the days which follow.

Happy Birthday Hubby!

2008-06-27T11:55:00.005-04:00

Yesterday was dear hubby's birthday.

We took him out to celebrate the day before and today he is out celebrating with his father and Karen. Bryan is away visiting my father who continues to live out of State. Guess that means I'm alone today.

Normally I would enjoy being alone. Some free time for me to pursue any and all pleasures; however I have been a tad depressed these last couple of days after returning from vacation. Do you ever feel like things are going well and yet you can't put your finger on it but things are not quite right at the same time? I know its just left over work stress still. I need to break out of this funk I'm in and get it together.

Well since I'm battling the blahs today I thought I would waste time and post on this 20 question meme I got from Les J: Here goes...

If you were to die this evening with no opportunity to communicate with anyone, what would you most regret not having told someone?
That I loved them. I try to tell my family I love them daily, but you can never say it enough.
If a new medicine were developed that would cure arthritis but cause a fatal reaction in 1 percent of those who took it, would you want it to be released to the public?
No, my mom was one of those 1 percent people. Her doctors didn't know the risks anymore than she did until it was too late. It's irresponsible for drug companies to kill the patient for the sake of a probable cure. The drug that killed my mother and so many other's like her has been removed from the market. I'm sure there are people who will disagree with me and that's fine. My opinion will not change. I have arthritis and so does my dad. It is painful and it does affect our life, but no one should have to die for a cure for my disorder/disease.
If you were able to live to the age of 90 and retain either the body or the mind of a 30-year-old for the last 60 years of your life, which would you want?
My mind. I've seen relatives with Alzheimer's disease, no thank you.
If at birth you could select the profession your child would eventually pursue, would you do so?
No, freedom of choice is the only happiness. I will be proud of my children no matter what they do in their lives.
If you knew there would be a nuclear war in one week, what would do? (you can’t stop it)
Spend every precious moment with my family. Nothing else matters.
Would you accept twenty years of extraordinary happiness and fulfillment if it meant you had to die at the end of the period?
No, I happy for the most part with my life as it is right now. Even the sad moments provide perspective for my growth.
If the person you were engaged to marry had an accident and became a paraplegic, would you go through with the marriage or back out of it?
I don't know anyone that shallow, nor am I that shallow. No matter what happens to my hubby I love him unconditionally.
Someone very close to you is in pain, paralyzed, and will die in a month. They beg you to give them poison so they that they can die. Would you?
No, life (all kinds) is sacred to me and my LORD. Pain is inevitable and we all must die at our appointed time. I would never be so arrogant as to think I'm all supreme and can choose when and how someone should die.
Given the choice of anyone in the world, who would you want as your dinner guest? as a close friend? as a lover?
Since the question is "in the world" I will assume these three persons must be alive. For a dinner quest I would be interested in conversing with a spiritual leader. For a close friend I would be interested in the ones I have now, including my hubby. For a lover, my hubby. He is the only one for me, always and forever.
What is the worst psychological torture you can imagine suffering? (it cannot involve any physical harm to you)?
I've already been through this...watching someone I love dearly die in my arms. While I know she suffers no more and my LORD is on her horizon, part of me died inside that day.
You and a person you love deeply are placed in separate rooms with a button next to each of you. You know that you will both be killed unless one of you presses the button before 60 minutes pass; furthermore, the first to press the button will save the other person, but will immediately be killed. What do you think you would do?
Based on what I know of this annoying hypothetical question and my husband's mind, I would try need to push the button immediately in order to be first. You really don't have 60 minutes since there are two minds at work in the hypothesis and each is trying to save the other from certain death.
Would you be willing to go to a slaughterhouse and kill a cow?
No. I'm not deluded as to where meat comes from, but I have no desire to kill anything. Unless your starving and have no other resources for nourishment why would you do this? As this question stands it is about killing only.
For $20,000 would you go for 3 months without washing, brushing your teeth, and using deodorant? Assume you could not explain your reasons to anyone, and there would be no long-term effect on your career. (you are not choosing one, you would have to go without all three).
Depends on how much I could avoid people. If I had to work everyday, see friends and family then no. I wouldn't want to make a negative lasting impression on those I am with constantly.
Which of these restrictions could you best tolerate: leaving the country permanently or never leaving the state in which you now live?
Never leave the State. There's lots to do here and I'm happy where I live.
If you could choose the sex and physical appearance of your soon-to-be-born child, would you do it?
No, my children are perfect the way my LORD intended them to be.
Would you be willing to decrease your life expectancy by 5 years if you could become extremely attractive?
No, beauty is in the eye of the beholder and I think I'm beautiful. I don't care what anyone else thinks.
If your friends and acquaintances were willing to bluntly tell you what they really think of you, would you want them to?
I assume they already do.
Would it disturb you much if, upon your death, your body were simply thrown into the woods and left to rot?
No, but it would disturb those I love.
Would you like to know the precise date of your death?
Gosh no! I don't live my life looking toward or for my death.
Would you be willing to give up all television for the next 5 years if it would induce someone to provide for 1,000 starving children in Indonesia?
Why are we always looking to provide for "anyone" in other countries when we can't provide for our own homeless and hungry right here in our own backyards. I work with the homeless and hungry ones right here. I see children who are missing meals right here and my missing TV is not the solution to the problem. I do what I can and I know and feel its never enough. Where I try to provide for one, there are many. This question annoys me on so many levels.

OK, so now I’m supposed to tag three other people to do this. I'm not going to tag anyone since I only did it because I'm depressed and wanted to do something to take my mind off my stress. So, anyone who wants to participate go for it. Feel free to blog it if you want to and if you want me to know you did it leave a comment.

It was fun-It was hot-We're exhausted! We need a vacation!

2008-06-25T20:45:00.021-04:00

And here it is, our vacation story in pictures. Time to begin:

First we went to the Knoxville Zoo. It was so hot that the animals went into hiding and we could only see a few souls who braved the heat. So we basically walked our fannies off and still had a good time.

Next we went to Dollywood...

Let me begin by saying I always said I would visit another amusement park when pigs fly...who knew?

So welcome to Dollywood...it was hot...it was crowded...it was exhausting...it was fun!

If you have read our blog before then you have met Fred, Say hi to Fred...

Fred lives with me in the common room. He ask me if I would visit his relatives for him/ He requested that I take them some preserved meats. I said sure and look at who I come face to face with...

All I can say is what a nice bunch of folks! They were a little shy at first and didn't say much, but after a while they began to tell all about the family tree. I was fascinated by their story.

After leaving Fred's folks, we went to this odd plantation. And I thought flying pigs was a sight to behold.

Next we went to visit the military machines ...we saw a fantastic half-track tank:

And, I was such a trooper with the amusement park, that my family let us visit my favorite place...the museum:

I took 300 photographs overall. I love traveling and photography! Oh and did someone earlier say we need another vacation?

Headed out in the morning

2008-06-22T21:26:00.020-04:00

Vacation Begins:
---Going there...Where is there you ask? Our own backyard, not really. Click on this picture to see more photos from other great photographers who went there...

© All rights reserved
by T13Harvey

One of our kids has never been to the zoo, so its about time to take her (ok, dead give away). We are looking forward to a few days away and some sight seeing in our own great state of Tennessee. We plan to visit the Knoxville zoo, Dollywood, and sight see all along the way.

Here is some Tennessee trivia/information: Did you know that Tennessee...
1. boasts 3 United States Presidents (can you name them?)

2. got its nickname "the Volunteer State" during the War of 1812 when volunteer soldiers from Tennessee displayed valor in the Battle of New Orleans

3. has more than 3,800 documented caves

4. got its name "Tennessee" from the old Yuchi Indian word, "Tana-see" which means "the Meeting Place"

For more Tennessee Trivia go to this link,,, Tennessee Fast Facts and Trivia

Now for some Knoxville facts--Did you know that Knoxville...

1. has been referred to as K-town, Big Orange Country, Knox-Vegas, Vol Country, and Marble City just to name a few

2. has seven lakes for recreational use

3. is a part of the Cherokee National Forest and the Great Smokey Mountains

4. is home to the Knoxville zoo

I love traveling. I think I was born a gypsy at heart with wanderlust. I can't wait to hit the road.

Personal Photos:
---More outside fun. I will post vacation photos when I return...

It was a picture moment!

2008-06-19T22:46:00.008-04:00

Home Life:

This is the cutest photo moments of my two kids. They were watching a little red riding hood movie- musical. I quickly retrieved the camera and took their picture. He is so good with her. She just adores him.

Business Life:

I have been helping a colleague at work this summer and that will be ending soon. It has been interesting working with her on projects. I'm happy I could help her and I have enjoyed her company. Right now work stress is still foremost in my mind. The stress arises from the sad economy. Cut backs and lay-offs are inevitable in this economy. I can only pray that things get better. Any way, the projects are nearing an end and may I say LJ congratulations on all you have acccomplished!

Personal Life: Update on my weight loss

I have lost 10 lbs, my cholesterol is down 37 points, my sugar level is completely back to normal, my blood pressure is like a twenty year old. For that matter all my labs are normal. I am so pleased, but I still have a ways to go. I would like to lose 30 pounds more. Looking at it written here just now, 30 pounds doesn't seem like so much weight. But then I have my moments when I think my 30 pounds feels and looks more like 150 pounds. Distorted, I know. If I lost 150 pounds I wouldn't even exist.

I'm still wearing my loose fitting clothes. I feel way too big to wear something more form fitting. I was looking at this photo of me and I have noticed that the shirt no longer fits, but it is my comfort zone. I also have noticed that the camera hates me. But that's ok the feeling is mutual.

Happy Father's Day!

2008-06-14T12:33:00.012-04:00

comments hi5

Father's day is June 15 this year. Father's day is a twentieth century holiday started by Mrs. John B. Dodd, of Washington. She first proposed the idea of a "father's day" in 1909, as a way to honor her father, William Smart, a Civil War veteran. The first Father's Day was observed on June 19, 1910 in Spokane, Washington. Then finally in 1966, President Lyndon Johnson signed a presidential proclamation declaring the 3rd Sunday of June as Father's Day.

Coming from a strong line of fathers--my family knows how important it is to have good men in our life who believe in and follow God's laws, who demonstrate by living an honorable life, who give all to their families and expect nothing in return. These men gain our respect, deserve our love and honor the core of what it means not only to be a father, but be a man.

Andy (my kids great-great-great grandfather/Jerome's dad)

Jerome with his wife Arminta (my kids great-great grandfather/Claude's dad)

Claude with his sister Mable (my kids great-grandfather/Donald's dad)

Donald with me (My kids grandfather/my dad)

William with his wife, Gaye and mother, Kathleen (My kids grandfather/David's dad)

Happy father's day to our grandfathers, fathers and my kid's dad!

An amazing man who his son can look up to and be proud. A man his daughter can count on with love and protection. He is a man who leads us in footpath God has set for our family. He is a blessing to us and we love him deeply.

Illness Update

2008-06-13T17:08:00.005-04:00

I had my doctor's appointment today. My test results were back and I have diverticulosis. My doc said it was not brought on by the typical reasons since I have been eating properly. Apparently mine was brought on by my either my hormones being out of sync or food poisoning (could it have been the tomatoes?) Anyway I am on bed rest and medication for the next few days while my body repairs itself. I will always have diverticulosis, but it can be managed. I am thankful that it was nothing more serious.

We have opened our swimming pool and the kids are completely enjoying themselves in the water. I can't get over how fast Karen and Bryan are growing up.

Ok, this past weekend!

2008-06-10T20:30:00.006-04:00

We traveled to my dad's home to celebrate his 66th birthday and to attend a celebration at the Chancellor's home. I hadn't been feeling well for a couple of days. We arrived at Dad's on Saturday and presented him his gifts and our love. Later that night we attend the party and I did eat some tomatoes. I know you're thinking what was she thinking? Well, actually I wasn't thinking about anything as I didn't know that some tomatoes were contaminated. I'm not saying these tomatoes were contaminated; however, about two hours later after arriving back at my Dad's home, I began to cramp. I thought I was having an appendicitis attack. When I began throwing up all night, I asked my hubby to take me to the hospital. So I spent Sunday morning in the emergency room having some of the most nasty tests run on me imaginable.

If you could imagine my face during my hospital visit it might have looked like this...

I was so sick I felt like poor Fred here looked. Fred lives in our common room.

Oh and BTW, if you are ever sick and the attending physician suggests you should have the test to check your appendix, say NO!!!! I made the mistake of not asking how this test is preformed and consequently learned all about it from the young man who had the unenviable task of preforming this embarrassing test on me. The young technician kept telling me what I trooper I was during the procedure. I can promise you I will not be having this test in the future. The CT scan was not the embarrassing part of the test. I can honestly say that having my you know what exposed to a young man was not the most embarrassing part of the test either. I will leave the rest to your imagination which I can assure you is not likely to be far from the mark of what really happened to me during this test.

So to make this long story short, I had tests all Sunday morning and was released without a diagnosis. Still sick, I was told to come back to the hospital Monday for more tests. I am scheduled to see my doctor on Friday of this week. They (ER doctors) have decided through process of elimination it must be my gallbladder (I think not). And yes I am still sick. Plus I have lost two more pounds. I am now ten pounds lighter than I was 3 weeks ago.

Sorry Dad about the blotched birthday, but I am happy we were all there to enjoy most of it together at your home.

Random Ramblings

2008-06-05T11:24:00.010-04:00

We finally had the chance to paint some of the rooms in our home and it is beginning to feel more like us. Above is Bryan's room before we began to repaint and redecorate. We painted his room in his favorite color deep red (it has an oriental look). He has been collecting weapons since he was a small child and now they can finally be displayed. His favorites pieces are from the medieval era. However, he is most proud of the Japanese Hattori Hanzo sword, signed by David Carradine. There were only 250 of those swords made and signed. Bryan has always been a big David Carradine fan. His room is like a small efficiency apartment. His room contains a big black platform bed with matching night stand, black couch, a small black refrigerator and other dresser chest pieces.

He is thrilled with his new room.

We also completed painting our kid's bathroom picture above. I am thrilled with how this turned out.

This is the next room to paint, the dining room (above pict). I'm thinking a white with picture moldings on the bottom and some darker color on top. I haven't decided the darker color yet. I just can't stand the beige color that it is now. After this room is finished, I plan to do the common room (pict. below).

Next week we have the pool/spa people coming to open our pool for the summer. I look forward to that visit since I plan to live outside. I love being outside. I'm in my favorite spot in the house. I am surrounded by plants with gorgeous blooms and its so relaxing.

Tomorrow is my dad's birthday. We plan to see him this weekend and celebrate. I think a special luncheon is in order and a very special cake for the man we love so much. Then Saturday night we also have a special function to attend at the University-Chancellor's home. We will get to visit with more of my husband's family members as they will be attending this dinner as well.

I have been on the LA plan for nearly three weeks now and have lost 8 pounds. What's really amazing to me is being able to eat foods and still losing 6 inches around my body. Imagine what 3 more weeks will do for my body shape.

Useless, pointless, necessary...adjectives

2008-05-30T10:07:00.014-04:00

Do you remember keeping a diary as a child? Maybe you were one of those journal people. Popular books right now have a journal look to them. A few very popular books are the ones written to look like chat room dialog. What's your point you may ask me? Have you ever posted about absolutely nothing? Then wondered if anyone cared enough to read about your nothingness? I wonder sometimes if what I have to say is worth posting much less reading. Now I know that some of my wonderful blog friends would miss me if I didn't post, so have no fear that I have any intention of going away. I'm just pondering why keeping a blog sometimes feels so, what's the word...

...useless...pointless...necessary...compelling, comforting,

etc; and any other adjective you might select. What adjective should I attach to how I feel about this...you pick one it would probably work for me. Why do we do it, blog I mean?

I know that I love reading other people's blogs (when I have the time). It gives me the opportunity to get to know someone I wouldn't have the chance to meet in this lifetime. I don't get to know them in depth, but I do get a window in their world at a particular moment. I am a member of Verve (curious: click on the verve logo on my right bar link area). Verve allows me to look at other bloggers throughout the world. I would like to thank Clayton for asking me to join. I really like verve a lot.

(Here's one of my pieces of work)

My fav verve blogs are by the photographers. I have a minor in art/photography from the University. And I never have time to do what these guys are doing with the trade. I use to have a genuine dark room in my previous home, now the only dark room I have is my bedroom at night. What adjective should I attach to how I feel about this...you pick one it would probably fit for me.

I wonder if you can describe your blog or the reason for your blogging with just one adjective. I think my adjective would have to be...ubiquitous. (If you try this let me know as I would like to read it--email me or put a comment on my blog; whichever is comfortable for you)

*u·biq·uui·tous -(adjective) existing or being everywhere, esp. at the same time; omnipresent

*ubiquitous. (n.d.). Dictionary.com Unabridged (v 1.1). Retrieved May 30, 2008, from Dictionary.com website: http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/ubiquitous

Graduation Day

2008-05-24T09:03:00.008-04:00

Graduation is such an emotionally charged day. I said goodbye to my kids who I have watched grow up for the past three years at my school. I will miss these kids so much. Recently one of the kids I taught came back to see me. He was so grown up. I am so proud of him. Its rewarding to have your kids come back and thank you for being instrumental in helping them achieve their dreams. I'm proud of all "my" kids. Speaking of which my son and niece graduated this past week.

My son graduate from 5th grade. He was awarded a diploma from his school and the 110% recognition award. The 110% award goes to one boy and girl who gives that extra mile every day throughout the year. The have to be academically motivated and service orientated. These kids will have spent their time not only making sure they excel in their dreams, but helping others to achieve and excel as well. Bryan didn't know he was being recognized for this achievement. After the speech about the awards requirements, Bryan's name was called. The look on his face was priceless as he was asked to stand for acceptance. He was so shocked and surprised that his mouth fell open. He was thankful and then modestly said that he didn't deserve it. He named another young man who he felt was more deserving. I couldn't be more honored than to be Bryan and Karen's mom.

This week one more of my babies has graduated from high school and had her birthday too. My beautiful niece plans to go to college (far away I might add) and major in communications this fall. We attended her party right after Bryan's graduation. It was a grand day of celebrating. I have loved watching my nieces and nephews grow up. My life has been and continues to be filled with love, laughter, and honor.

On the "me" home front, I tried on my cheer leading hoodie and shorts yesterday to see if they fit correctly (believe it or not the blue shorts which came with the gear is even shorter. There is no way I'm wearing those)! I will be purchasing more modest shorts to wear to camp and the games. I'm thinking like ankle length jeans, what do you think? (over look my messy bedroom).

I like shorts, but you get so use to being in business attire that being dressed casually feels funny when at work even if you are outside. That will take some getting use to for me.

This weekend we will be repainting and redecorating Bryan's room for a teenager sanctuary. We have a few rooms to redo in the house. The only room we have completed is Karen's, but at the rate she is growing that won't stay a fairy princess room long before I have another teenager on my hands. But remember when we moved in last August, we had no time to decorate or do anything other than unpack boxes. This summer (what little I have) I plan to begin projects to make our house even more our home. I'm ready to take on those projects.

Congratulations to this years graduates!

Surviving until the end

2008-05-17T08:37:00.004-04:00

Next week is the last week for the kids at school. Wednesday will begin summer vacation for every one, but me. I have promised my services for at least another month. I have also committed to work some in July. I was recently hired as next years cheerleader coach/sponsor. Some of the work this summer will pertain to coaching and cheer camps. I love my kids where I work. We have great kids.

Bryan will be graduating from his school next week and will be attending a new one next year. I have the day off to attend his graduation ceremony. I can't believe how fast my kiddos are growing up. Bryan was so upset yesterday because he has formally been invited to join the country club (the junior society). It was funny to me because he felt they were trying to "change him" into someone he doesn't want to become. I immediately thought of the movie that Nicole Kidman starred in titled, "Stepford Wives" made in 2004. Well it was a nice invitation and thank you to any board member reading this who may have submitted and voted for Bryan's admittance.

Karen continues to be a challenge to raise. She is loving, helpful, stubborn, outspoken, hard-headed and all girl. That's a tough combination for us. Funny but everyone keeps telling me that she's exactly like her mama. She will say and do things just like I do. My poor mama must have put her hands through her hair more than once over my antics. I know I do with Karen.

So you ask how's the LA still going? Well its great. I continue to lose weight and eat healthy. Exercise continues to be a challenge, though. I guess it doesn't help that I walk all day, lift up to 25 pounds of items most days (I know that's exercise) and then I think I can do a more cardio work-out after work. By the end of a work day I usually am ready to drop, often its in the car on the way to pick up Karen from school. But I am determined to do this and as we learned earlier in this long (do I ever shut-up) post, I'm stubborn. If I say I'll do something, I do it. I recently came across old photos of me in my late twenties in a bikini no less. I must have weighed 115. I'm telling you having kids is awesome wouldn't trade it for anything, but it gobbled up my figure and spit out what I see today. Not bad, but not what I want to see either.

I should post that bikini photo of then and one of how I look now, but I wouldn't want to scare or scar you for life. Plus making faces like these isn't good for your image. (Check out this photo of me with no make-up--I have a sense of edgy humor)

Enjoy!

I can see light at the end of the tunnel

2008-05-13T17:06:00.002-04:00

School will be out soon for summer break. I am exhausted this year, more than any other year. I can hardly wait for some down time. I still plan to work some in the summer (I always do). But there will be time for me to have a relaxing break from all the mental stress. I have promised myself that I will think no work, see no work, and do no work for two weeks in July. Now if only I can keep my promise. I plan to sit by the poolside reading, doing nothing, or sketching. I also plan to do some bead work this summer, maybe make some jewelry.

Oh man-bikini season is just around the corner!!! Can I panic now? I did start my exercise program as promised this past Saturday. I am so out of shape! There is nothing worse than being out of shape and having to watch your aerobics leader who happens to be a gorgeous skinny-blonde stick woman (no offense to any skinny blonde stick women reading this). Before exercise begins I really like this woman. She's nice, pretty, capable, not a long blonde hair out of place, great makeup, perfect leotard body, etc. During exercise while I resemble a red, bloated whale I find myself slowly beginning to throw mental daggers at this woman. She's still nice, pretty, capable, not a hair out of place, great makeup, perfect leotard body--all while exercising. I'm dying and she's smiling like a lunatic while bouncing around. I think she's a robot. In fact, I think she's an evil exercise robot. Her endorphins gave her euphoria, my endorphins gave me a beating. Funny thing is I can't wait to go see Ms. skinny-stick woman again and get my endorphin beating. I kind of liked throwing mental daggers at her. I get to de-stress mentally while doing sometime productive for my body. I like my aerobics instructor. I think this will be the beginning of a good relationship.

Happy Mother's day!

2008-05-09T18:41:00.004-04:00

I have been coming to a life changing decision for a while now. I am happy as I am; however I have been worried about my cholesterol and blood sugar. My mom was a serious diabetic. Her diabetes took her life and deprived my whole family of her warmth, love and light. I miss her so very much. In one horrible moment, I lost my mother and best friend. Not a day goes by that I don't want to call her just to say I love you. Or visit her and tell her about my day or what funny thing the kids are doing. I still have trouble looking at her pictures without crying. We had wonderful memories, but for now those good times still leave me raw. I miss her disparately. I know she can't read this, but for all the moms who can--Have a happy mother's day. Call your daughters/sons. Call your moms. Tell them how much you love them! I love mine and shes not here for that important call. Praying at the grave site is not the same.

Well on to the life changing decision. Five days ago on Monday after my birthday. I went to our LA weight loss center and signed up. I have decided I will not harm my body with food anymore. I am very proud of myself for taking the steps to a healthy lifestyle. I am eating better than I have in years, literally! I have about 8 small meals a day. I'm not hungry. I have lost 3 lbs in 4 days. Doesn't sound like much until you realize that I'm doing this without doing a starvation diet (which doesn't work by the way). I can have any food I want, I just have to make sure it is in the right proportions. My goal is to gain more energy, eat healthier, and feel satisfied. I start an exercise program Saturday. I am walking a lot, but I want to get back into dancing. I want to dance the salsa (Jorge--I miss you buddy) and the bachata.

Bet those of you who know me, can remember skinny-*Jaelous (not my real name-*nickname). I was this scrawny girl who dance all the time. When I got married to my husband I weighed 99lbs. I was an dance/exercise freak then, but have a baby and suddenly your body takes on a whole new dimension.

I developed a greatly expanded chest (bigger boobs-people). I suddenly had round hips (bigger butt-people). And let us not forget being unable to see our toes until after the baby was born. After his birth, I could see my toes again; but my chest and hips were on a mission of their own making. While I like my hips, it would be nice to be able to wear a shirt which could button around my waist and chest at the same time. If I get the shirt big enough to house "the girls", it balloons like a tent around my waist. If I get the shirt fitted to my waist, there's no way those top (chest) buttons are ever coming together in this lifetime.

So here's to health, happiness, weight-loss and a shirt that might actually fit and button at the same time.

Here I am in all my glory prior, lets see how I change over the next 6 months. You watch me and I'll be available.

Been a rough week--then Birthday!

2008-05-03T15:39:00.006-04:00

It's been a rough week for me due to work related issues. I haven't been eating well or sleeping because I am under tremendous stress. Actually its been a tough work year. I was notified a few days back that I have been given tenure. You would think that this would alleviate some of my work related stress. But since it didn't cause it, it doesn't help to soothe it either. I can't really talk about my work itself or the problems since that would cause more problems for me. So you say why mention it at all? Its a part of who I am. I'm tense~intense.

I am also having a birthday. Happy May 1 for me. I like birthdays, don't think too much about getting older since its a blessing to be alive. I am celebrating this weekend with family. How old am I, you ask? Old enough to enjoy it and young enough to still flaunt whatever I've got. I'm wicked~intense!

Here's something that only a few people know about me. I love robotics. I'm a geek at heart. I just love electronic circuits. I love the minds who come up with the cool stuff. So I want to leave you with my favorite youtube video from Issa-ko.

Just click on the music player to stop the music and go to the top and see this video. Its great.

The mystery, journey, and discovery?

2008-04-25T08:04:00.006-04:00

Lately I have been posting about the kids since family and friends ask me how's the family. I try to have a picture of the kids showing how they are growing, what they are doing, where we are at this moment captured in time. I try to not write too much about me. So this post is a doorway into a fraction me. You're either saying to yourself, "well about time" or "oh, please give me a break".

If you know me or the family I grew up in as a child; you know we are creative, technological minds. When I was little I knew I would grow up to become a technician, teacher, writer or artist. As a young woman, I went to University. I loved the atmosphere, all the learning. The whole environment was and still is like chocolate to me (of which I'm allergic--to chocolate I mean). I love everything about the mystery, journey, and discovery.

I got married as a young woman and had children as a mature woman. I was a SAHM for a long time before choosing a career outside of home. Today I'm complicated. I have learned to appreciate who I am, where I am and even the not knowing aspect of where I will be tomorrow. I may not have a tomorrow in this world. But that's doesn't matter since I have right now. Right now is of deep importance. Right now is everything. I have everything by the grace of God. I rediscover and appreciate myself through Him.

So who am I? Am I all these things I have written or will write about given the chance? Am I none of these things? Perhaps I'm something more or maybe something else altogether that has nothing to do with anything. Have I found the mystery, taken the journey and made the discovery? Yes, no, I don't know, maybe...stay tuned.

Looking for warmer, dry weather

2008-04-12T19:43:00.003-04:00

We were able to work outside today for the first time since last fall. Usually it is either storming, snowing or just plain cold. While working outside I kept admiring this huge, gorgeous tree in our front year. I took the camera out and took a picture of the pink flowers.
This photo doesn't do this tree justice. Then when we went inside from our outside work I took another picture of my little gorgeous girl.

Easter emotions

2008-03-30T14:32:00.004-04:00

Easter has always had special meaning for me, even when I was a little girl. Its a spiritual day for me and my family and a day for celebration and fun. It marks the end and beginning. It ends lent(which is 40 days by the way) and is the beginning of when my Lord arose. I was baptized on Easter. And this Easter marks the day my mother passed away two years ago because Easter is a movable holiday by our calendars. I have been on spring break from teaching, which I might add ends today as I post.

It's a Birthday Month

2008-03-09T13:51:00.012-04:00

Happy Birthday to Bryan!

Bryan turned 12 this month. We celebrated at home and he loved this birthday. Karen thought it was a great birthday also as she received a gift from her uncle.

Isn't Karen cute! And growing up very fast.

February--Love is in the air!

2008-02-24T17:48:00.004-05:00

On February 13, my brother had his birthday and of course Valentine's day followed. Two days of celebration for my family. In school news: Bryan continues to work diligently on his science fair project/experiment which will be due in March. He is having a great year after it not beginning so well. Karen is learning discipline in her new school. She gets her stars taken away when she is being naughty. She is strong-willed and sassy, but loving and giving. I'm just enjoying where we are at present. God has a plan and I will always follow His will.

Kung Hei Fat Choi!!!

2008-02-10T08:30:00.000-05:00

Bryan has been involved in basketball for many, many years; but this year he is enjoying the sport more than he ever has before. The kids are fantastic, the coaches are great leaders and mentors and the environment is blessed with God.

Just check out a practice---

This is cutie, Karen getting ready for bed after her "bubbie's" basketball practice.

It's the Year of the Rat--Bryan's year!

We celebrated the Chinese New Year at our favorite restraunt. The Chinese owners are old neighbors and good friends. We have know each other since Bryan was two years old. The kids love this celebration day. They get to dress in their Chinese outfits to show respect to our missing loved ones, are given red envelopes with a gift inside (money and a treat), eat the most delicious food (we are the sweet food) and have family and friends around them...it's big hit!

So here we are just before heading out to celebrate. If you want to know more about how we celebrate check out this link for more information http://www.art-treasures-gallery.com/html/chinesenewyear.html

Happy Birthday Karen!

2008-01-27T08:57:00.000-05:00

Karen turned 3 on January 22. We celebrated her birthday with a party at home. She is amazing. She is my beautiful baby growing up. We love her so very much.

Ready for 2008?

2007-12-26T23:47:00.000-05:00

Christmas was wonderful and these photos say it all. Hope you're ready for the new year.

December Dash

2007-12-21T08:38:00.000-05:00

It's been a while since my last post. Since Halloween, Thanksgiving has come and gone and here we are heading for the Christmas stretch. We spent Thanksgiving at my dad's home, so Christmas is at our home this year. We traditionally spend Christmas Eve going to parties. It's a good time to catch up with family and friends we don't get to see very often.

This is the first year I don't feel ready for any holiday. Moving has made life a little more difficult as most of the decorations are still packed away and stored. This summer when I get a chance I intend to get organized and finally unpack items like decorations for the holidays.

The kids are so excited about Christmas. I had forgotten what its like to see the holidays through the eyes of a child, but I have been blessed to have gentle reminders. First is the excited twinkling of eyes as decorations go up around the house. The tree comes into the common room and little fingers can't wait to touch it. So many wonderful smells like Christmas cookies and gingerbread houses to taste. Suddenly brighly wrapped presents begin to appear under the tree. The loud chatter begins, "What did Santa bring me?"

Happy Halloween!

2007-10-31T21:32:00.000-04:00

Halloween was a blast for the kids and family this year even though I have a horrible cold and felt crummy. Check out all the pictures.

Summer memories

2007-10-12T20:59:00.001-04:00

We were missing some of our friends and I thought I would put some pictures of the fun and memories we made this summer with them. The kids and all of us miss you, Joy who left for North Carolina, and Jorge and Queenie who left for Texas. Here's to you guys! We wish you the best!

Slide shows, scrapbooks, photo ecards, and more

My favorite Nephew got married!

2007-09-16T10:20:00.000-04:00

We went to our nephew's wedding last night. It was a beautiful gala event. Isn't the Bride and Groom simply stunning!

I have had the honor of watching this wonderful little boy grow into a fantastic man and now he's married to a beautiful, sweet girl. I know that he and his new bride, Tara will have a special life together. We love you Will.

It's hard to believe that the next young, male Sturgill in line to get married is now our son. We have two girls before the line ever reaches Karen. But Bryan says, "No way, I'm not getting married!" Good thing, since he still needs to go though years of school and college.

As you can see we are well since my last post. I want to thank all of our friends who have been so concerned and written to us expressing sympathy about our troubles and the accident. I have read every email and post and its heartening and healing to feel so much support and caring come our way.

Thank you each and every one.

Car Accident

2007-08-28T22:01:00.000-04:00

I have been putting off posting to the blog for a while because of all the upheaval in my family life. What with the move to a new home, beginning school and injuries from a serious car accident, my son being really sick and hospitalized, its been about all I could do to keep from losing it mentally.

Four weeks ago, we moved into our new home, began schools, and I causesd a serious accident. As I was driving with my family to visit Bryan's new school, I apparently pulled out in front of a truck which hit me in my driver's side. I have no memory of the accident. I only know what I have been told. I had to be cut from the wreckage. I suffered a serious concussion which has left me with memory loss (not only of the wreck, but other things as well--imagine not remembering how you look and finding a stranger in the mirror), confusion, heachaches, fatigue, massive bruising and cuts, and back trouble. I am just greatful to be alive and know that my family is alive, too. My family only suffered bruises and muscle soreness.

Then two weeks ago, my son Bryan became very ill with nausea and vomiting. He began to lose weight, turn pale, have dark cirles under his eyes and couldn't hold down any food or liquids. This all made attending school nearly impossible. At first we thought it was a virus, then nerves, finally the after-effects of the car accident. He was hospitalized in the children's ICU, lots of tests run and one test showed an inability of his stomach to function properly. Any way long story short, he has more tests coming up to check his colon and functions.

We are slowly settling into our new life. I am still very easily fatigued and confused, but perhaps in time my brain will heal and hopefully Bryan will get well, too.

I plan to post new pictures soon.

We love our new home!

2007-07-09T09:14:00.000-04:00

We have bought a beautiful house only 11 minutes from where I work. We will close on the house on July 30 and I go back to work on July 31. I am so excited. The house is perfect for us. We have stopped the building process. It simply taking too long and I don't want the hours long commute to work during the many months it would take to finish the house.

The house we bought is just what we wanted. Its an all-brick single story home with full basement. We have over 2000 sq. ft. finished on our level and dad will have over 1900 sq. ft. in his level of the house. The yard is great for everyone and it has an inground 18 x 36 pool. I keep telling myself as of July 30 I am no longer homeless.

We can't wait to move in!

Fun in the sun at the beach!

2007-06-24T15:33:00.000-04:00

Spent a week at the beach and enjoyed the sun. And notice you never see me in the photos, someone has to take the pictures.

We have moved!

2007-06-16T10:42:00.001-04:00

These pictures were taken the week before we moved out of our house. We have moved to live with my dad over the summer break. Sometime in July, we will have to move once again. We are in the process of building our new home. We chose to build a 2-story modular from Nationwide, to see our home plan look at our April post (located in the blog archive drop down list on the right side of this screen.) We are extremely excited.

Karen and Bryan are growing everyday. Karen has a full vocabulary, can say her numbers to 11 and knows all her abc's. She can sing and dance and perform gymnastics like a pro and she's just two. She amazes me all the time.

Bryan is eleven and as tall as I am. He is such a big help to his dad and me. He is so excited to be going to a new school which he picked. We were able to tour two schools in his district and he just loved the one he chose.

We are all ready for the new changes.

quick update on the move

2007-04-25T20:51:00.000-04:00

Here is the house plan for the new home we are building. We have decided to build a nationwide home.

Our current house will close on May 25. This is a good closing/moving date for all the parties involved as my school is out May 22 and Bryan's will be out May 24. I want to wish the new family moving in to our current home many blessings. I know they will love living in the house. We will be displaced for a while because we're in the building stage and will be until sometime September, then we move into our new home. We are so excited.

The kids are doing well and looking forward to the new changes.

And now for the Big News!

2007-03-18T21:30:00.000-04:00

Lots has happened in this month, so let me get started:

First, Bryan's birthday was on the 7th. He turned 11 years old. We had a party at home for him with a hummer cake, lots of gifts and he was surrounded by family. If we had one wish it was for all our family to have been at his party, but sometimes its not possible. So we missed those of you who couldn't make it.

Second, Why am I smiling when my car blew up...that's right it blew up. I was driving on the interstate alone, early one dark morning on my way to work (sounds like a paperback novel) and my engine popped, fire shot out the front and I was engulfed by blue smoke. Everything in the car went dead. I managed to steer the car into the ditch line, completely out of traffic. I was very frightened over the incident. I called my husband to come help me. While waiting for him to arrive, a strange man pulled in behind me and began to harrass me. He never offered to help, he just acted so weird that I was thoroughly scared. For five full minutes he did everything he could to scare me and try to get me to get out of my car. I was thinking straight enough to know not to get out of car. I had been sitting in my car for 10 minutes, my car was no longer on fire, the blue smoke had long since gone away, and it was pitch dark. I was out of danger and this guy appears and begins doing weird behavior. Picture it, I scared anyway...a woman alone, in the dark morning and a strange man is acting out of character as a good samaritan. When I talked to the police officer he said from how I described what the guy did, he felt the guy was up to no good and it was a good that I hadn't got out of my car. The only reason the weird guy quickly left was because he saw me get on my cell phone to call for more help. I know I'm not describing what happened too well here, but this guy was up to no good and I knew it for the first moment he pulled in behind me and began acting up. But I lived through it all and therefore I'm happy and smiling.

Third, we listed our house with a real estate agency and its been on the market one day when we get an offer for our full asking price! Talk about shock. Anyway until the contract closes the house remains on the market. It's only been listed for a few days and its been shown about 10 to 15 times. I've lost count. Seems like we just get relaxed and a realtor calls to ask us to leave so they can show the house. We've also picked out the house we're building and we have most everything lined up. I plan to pack boxes over my spring break which is coming up near the end of March.

And fourth, here's a big happy birthday shout to Larry and to Lisa! We love you!

Everything that has happened in February

2007-02-24T11:52:00.000-05:00

We had our China Angel's Chinese New Year and it was so much fun. Just look at these two cuties! We love this celebration.

It has been a busy February...we celebrated the chinese new year, Valentines day, and Donivan's birthday (he won't let me say how young he is), Our three schools have had parties seems like all month long (mine, Bryan's & Karen's). That's a lot of baking, and taking goodies to school.

We are possibly looking at big changes coming in the future; exciting changes, but more on that later.

Happy 2nd Birthday Karen!!!

2007-01-28T08:59:00.000-05:00

January 22 was Karen's 2nd Birthday.

We celebrated with a family party at home. Karen picked out her cake all by herself...who knew it would be spongebob (she calls him bob-bob). She's not a cake-eater. She tasted the frosting and decided in her words "don't like it". She doesn't like ice-cream all that much either, although she does like the ice-cream cone.

Her birthday gifts brought joy to her face. She got a microwave, iron and ironing board, doll house with dolls, and complete kitchen set. Her favorite items are the iron and microwave. Funny how when I was little my favorite gifts were clothes (ok I was odd). Karen's favorite are the domestic chore toys. She follows me imitating whatever chore I am doing. She's a big help around the house.

Her papaw and uncle Donivan came to the party. As soon as her papaw walked in the door she became so excited that she had to show off for him. She loves her grandparents like the day is long. Its truly beautiful to see how she has fallen inlove with us all and we are completely taken with her. She and her brother are growing up so fast. And she and he have such different personalities.

Life at the Sturgill home is blessedly beautiful. I hope things are well for your families. Enjoy the pictures.

2007-01-28T08:58:00.000-05:00

I'm two!!!

Our Christmas Card photo

2006-12-20T10:23:00.000-05:00

I'm working on getting this into the mail.

Merry Christmas!

2006-12-20T09:28:00.000-05:00

Strange that we put trees in our common rooms. But it sure is pretty.

2006-12-20T09:03:00.000-05:00

The Holidays are upon us. Yesterday was our last day of school. Bryan's class had his party and my school enjoyed seeing me and two other teachers dressed up for school spirit. I was dressed as the chicken to promote school literacy. That costume was so hot. But everyone had lots of fun, including Bryan who visited my school and helped me visit the classrooms.

Bryan is turning into such a fantastic person. He will be eleven this coming year. He is still a child, but there are moments when he will say and do something that lets me see a glimpse of the young man he is becoming. Like tonight when he sat with Santa and was asked what he wanted for Christmas, Bryan quietly responded, "I'm ok. I have all I want, my family". Santa told him he was quite the young man and due something special. Bryan is also wonderful with Karen; even when Karen is not so wonderful to him. He is into riding his motorcycle, running for track, and anything with computers. He says he wants to become a computer programmer. He has ideas for new technology which sometimes amazes me. His favorite thing to do is come up with new video game ideas for kids.

Karen is still going through her independent twos. She is strong willed and even a little bullyish at times. She is growing up. She's using sentences of three and four words now. And, she has discovered the word "why". If we tell her no, she responds with why. Her favorite thing to ask for is to watch Regis Philbin. I think she has a big crush on him. She will come to us and say, "Put Wegis on, peas". I know this will be heartbreaking to Kelly, but Karen believes that Wegis doesn't get enough airtime. I can't believe my little girl has her first crush at the age of two and its Regis Philbin, an older man!

David and I are preparing for the Christmas holiday. We have our home decorated inside and out. The tree is up and presents from Santa are beneath it. We have decided to put our house on the market with a realtor after the holidays. I am hoping it will sell as we get closer to the summer. It would be nice to move when I'm out of school. We still haven't found a home already built which meets our needs. We didn't put a basement in our current home and that's why we have to sell and move. And nearly all the houses (many) we have looked at so far are in need of a great deal of work, or are too small, or too expensive to remodel and they have no basements. I have looked at enough homes to be sick of the whole process. We are considering building again. Building the home we're in now wasn't a terrible experience, but living in an apartment during the process wasn't a great experience either. We have this house plan chosen, just in case we can't locate a house already built. We found this houseplan through the following website: http://www.globalhouseplans.com/house_plans_get_14225__european.htm.
It's smaller than the house we live in right now, but we can put in a basement for Dad to move into it and that's important to us. This is a beautiful house which we can make into our home.

My dad is doing as well as can be expected this holiday. I am still very worried about him. His health is decent, but he's a different man. I know when you lose the love of your life you're never the same again, but dad's not a strong man anymore. We are all missing my mother greatly, the holidays make it especially difficult for us to cope with her loss. She loved Christmas and was the holiday elf for Santa. Mom just knew how to make Christmas memorable and special. It's been hard to have to take over the jobs she did so well. She just made the holidays seem so easy, and yet for me I am struggling with the decorating, cooking, planning and even holiday shopping. I guess it doesn't help that my favorite holiday is not Christmas, but Easter. Bryan used to refer to me as the Christmas grinch, but I am getting better with the holiday. And, Christmas is David's favorite holiday and he does well with the things I'm not so good at. We compliment each other.

Here's wishing you and your family a very Merry Christmas and a happy New Year. Be safe this holiday season!

2006-12-20T09:02:00.000-05:00

We fall asleep so easily on the couch, wonder why?

2006-12-20T09:01:00.000-05:00

The loves of my life.

Playing catch up

2006-11-11T07:22:00.000-05:00

Halloween was a fun night with the kids. David, my brother and our friend took the kids trick-or-treating while I gave out candy. While they were gone I saw some awesome costumes. We had more treaters this year than in all the years before. When my family returned with their loot (so to speak), Bryan said that his grandmother didn't recognize him. He looked so cool in his costume of ghost rider. He went to grandmom's house and being used to simply going inside, walked in. Grandmom said, "What are you doing? Who are you?" Bryan told her, "I'm your son's son". She said, "No you're not. You have to leave." It was at that moment that David entered the door. Boy was Gaye surprised to find it was Bryan under all that theatrical makeup. And our little Karen has discoverd the joys of candy! Karen asked could she try a piece of candy. She brings her candy to me and says, "oat it peas". When she has eaten it, she gets another and says, "more peas". Her vocabulary is growing more every day. She understands more than she communicates with words.

I have a chicken costume for my book fair. The fair is going on right now. If the kids buy enough product to meet our money goal line, then I will dress as a big chicken and do the chicken dance in the hallways and class rooms. Another of our male teachers will dress as a cheerleader and our female teacher will dress as the quarterback. The kids are looking forward to this more than any prize we could award. We're more than halfway to our goal.

Enjoy the photos.

2006-11-11T07:02:00.000-05:00

Everything that has happened in the end of October and beginning of November. Plays, painting pumpkins, dressing up, bookfair, getting our house ready for sale, and looking for another to buy (which we haven't found yet--the other deal fell through).

October equals Halloween

2006-10-19T19:00:00.000-04:00

Halloween is just around the corner. We have the kids costumes--Bryan is ghost rider and Karen is a sugar plum fairy. I plan to dress up this year for the kids. I'm going to be a big chicken. I usually dress as a witch or vampire, but this year I have to use the chicken costume more than once. In November, I have a book fair and one of the prizes for contests I have for the kids at my school is for me to dress up as a chicken and do the chicken dance at school. It'll be a hoot. Isn't Karen cute?

The house hunting is progressing well. We have found a house which isn't as large as the home we have now, but this one fits our needs since my dad is moving in with us. It's a single story home with basement and pool. It has a nice back yard for the kids to play in and even comes with a built in play set. We plan to make an offer one day this coming week. I'll let you know what happens.

On the homefront: We are going through the terrible twos at our house. Karen has gone from being sweet pea to the sour apple. I had no idea that the terrible twos could make a grown woman cry like bawling baby; not that I'm admitting to anything, okay. Darling little Karen can be the most stubborn little person in the world when she decides to have things her way. She refuses to go to bed at night and wakes up at 1:30AM wanting to play. She throws a tantrum if we tell her no. She screams like a vengeful banshee when she doesn't get her way. And let's not even begin to describe the head-banging, self-biting, baby finger pinching episodes, which of course she blames on me and her dad for telling her to behave. Will we survive? Tune in next time to find out.

House Hunting

2006-09-15T23:01:00.000-04:00

It has been a year since we adopted Karen. She was placed in our arms on September 13 and we formally accepted her on September 14, 2005. What special days those were in China. We were given this tiny, scared baby who as I look back on it now was in complete shock. She had been driven four hours from everything she ever knew to meet total strangers who would take her from everyone she would ever know. That day so long ago, she had no way of knowing that these strangers would love her, care for her, and give her a life blessed in every way. Today she loves her family as much as we love her. Today I hope you will think about opening your hearts to a child who needs you as much as you will need them. Think about adoption as a way to begin or complete your family. For more information visit CCAI at http://www.chinesechildren.org/

House hunting is a daunting task, only surpassed by the thoughts that we have to sell our home, pack and move once we find the perfect home for us. We have seen homes that have been close to what we need and are looking for; but so far, no house has had exactly what we are looking for in a home. We have had to broaden our search criteria. I know the right home is out there, its just a matter of waiting for it to come onto the market. I don't look forward to the move, either. The last time we moved I lost every fork and numerous towels. I think the moving grimlins thought that would be the perfect hilarious joke to play on an unsuspecting family. But all members of the family are looking forward to the new home.

This school year is moving along at break-neck speed. I can't belive that it is alreay September and the month will be over in a matter of weeks. Where does the time go?

Enjoy every minute with your family

2006-09-15T23:00:00.000-04:00

See how much the kids are growing.

School is in session

2006-08-27T11:00:00.000-04:00

Welcome to the New School Year!

Summer is over, school is in session. We are back in full routine. I have returned to work, not that I was ever truly not working over the summer. Bryan began fourth grade this year. He is excited to have male teachers for the first time. And, we have finally found a good day-care for Karen. She attends 3 days a week. It gives her a chance to be with tiny tots her age and David can get more work accomplished on those three days.

The big news is that we have decided to sell our home and are looking for a home more able to meet our growing needs, as my dad will be coming to live with us. Since my mom's death I worry constantly about my dad living alone. He's still a young man, but his arthritis makes it difficult to maneuver and I worry about him falling and possibly getting hurt. We are all excited about the new change.

I will keep you posted about the house hunt.
Here are pictures of the kids saying good bye to summer...

Goodbye Summer

2006-08-27T10:58:00.000-04:00

Since Karen is so afraid of the water, we thought getting a small kiddie pool might help her. She isn't a fan, but with her brother as a safety guard she will at least try the water.

Can you believe that it is July already!

2006-07-14T11:00:00.000-04:00

Summer is going by too fast!

Can you believe that in a little over two weeks most of our schools will be back in session? I can't believe how fast this summer has flown by.

It has been a great summer for us, especially with all the traveling we have accomplished. We have just returned once again from a trip to North Carolina and South Carolina. We took the kids to a water park. Bryan has always been a fish baby who has loved the water. But Karen is more cautious of the water. While Bryan dives in, Karen tips her little toes in first. While Bryan swims, Karen pats the water with her hand. I love watching the kids!

We plan to use the rest of the summer vacation to picnic and swim at Boone Lake.
Hope you are enjoying your summer, too!

P.S. congratulations to all our friends who have returned with their daughters from China!!!

Carowinds Theme Park

2006-07-14T10:58:00.000-04:00

We just love theme parks and Carowinds is one of our favorites. We like the waterpark best.

The Old and the New

2006-06-19T23:00:00.000-04:00

In the past, I have used blogspot to keep an adoption journal located at the follwing link http://karenlinadoption.blogspot.com/ . That blog was created to follow the adoption of our daughter from the People's Republic of China. I will be leaving that site up as a journey through our adoption process and this new site will chronicle our family.

This past Sunday, June 18, 2006, we arrived back home from our cross-country vacation trip:

Just before my beloved mother passed away in March, I had told her and the kids that when summer arrived we would take a cross country trip to visit her sister in Arizona. Mom was so excited about seeing parts of the country she'd never seen before. We were all looking forward to this family trip, but mom was not destined to make the trip with us. Mom went into the hospital and while there, she knew she wasn't going to live long enough to get to go with us. She told Dad to tell us to make the trip without her; she'd be with us in spirit. After she passed away, I kept my promise and we made the trip. I knew it would be difficult emotionally at times for me on the trip, but it was so rewarding, also.

We packed and left on June 1.

My husband, two kids, brother, dad an myself left Tennessee driving through some of the most beautiful country. Our trip took us through Tennessee, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, Colorado, Kansas, Kentucky and Missouri. Some of the most beautiful areas were on the Native American reservations. We went to the Desert, Grand Canyon, rocky mountains, museums, zoos and even to the Mexico border in Nogales. I took literally hundreds of photographs (839 to be exact) and brought back many more memories for summer scrap-book making projects.

I intend to make lots of memories this summer for my children. I know how important those memories will become one day for them.

I hope you enjoy just a few of the numerous photographs I took.

Welcome to Arizona

2006-06-19T11:24:00.000-04:00

Visiting family in Arizona was such great fun. I want to thank our family for inviting us and for putting up with us. Four adults, and two children are quite the hand-full.

Arizona Desert

2006-06-19T11:04:00.000-04:00

We explored caves, traveled out into the desert, and saw wild animals.

Arizona Zoo

2006-06-19T11:03:00.001-04:00

It was 104 degrees at the zoo. We had a great time, but boy did the heat get to you really quick.

Zoo Animals

2006-06-19T11:01:00.000-04:00

I pulled out just a few of the animal pictures to let you have a better view. My favorites are the duck, polar bear and lion.

Grand Canyon

2006-06-19T10:58:00.000-04:00

The Grand Canyon was just beautiful. The day wasn't too hot, only about 100 degrees. Before we left my aunt's home she said, "the grand canyon is just a big hole in the ground"; but what a fantastic big hole to see. Go see the Grand Canyon!

Colorado

2006-06-19T10:57:00.000-04:00

Colorado has such diverse scenery, from the mountains to the cities. We use to live in Boulder and going back to see the changes after all these years was a special treat. I would live in Colorado again given the chance.

Native American Reservation

2006-06-19T10:56:00.000-04:00

By far, the most georgous places I have ever seen have been on Native American Reservations. I have traveled outside the US seen beatutifully exotic places, but I still love the reservations the most.

Random places

2006-06-19T10:53:00.000-04:00

Just a few of my favorites.