Good bye 2007!

The last day of the year. I am so glad 2007 will be over. It started off with us sick and it was a rough year. There were some highlights....going to Colorado, my brothers sobriety and getting his life together, going to grandkids soccer, football and baseball games, Lanny's recovery, my brother in law Don's recovery, Mom getting better, Ryan and Amanda moving back home, got to see Doug and Betty, and ending with Kevon asking Meghan to marry him! Won't even discuss low points because it does no good. I am just going to count my blessings and pray we'll even see more in 2008 for all of us!!! I am so excited for our party tonight! We're going to end the year with good friends. So far coming is Ron & Sharon, Jake & Patty, Bob & Nancy, Andy & Francie, Ken & Nancy, Cal & Bev, and Craigmont and Cindy! It will be fun! Good friends, good food, and lots of laughs. Got lots of cleaning to do first. Didn't get to mom's yesterday because I have a screw in my tire and Lanny needs to take it to Les Schwab this morning. I wish I knew someone that kept a journal every day like I do so I could read. Karla is maybe twice a week, Heather once a week or longer, and Amanda about once a month...and Tara & Meghan don't even have one. If anyone I know out there reading this has one....let me know! I'd love to check it out! Well, friends and family ....I hope you have a wonderful New Years celebration...however you chose to bring in 2008! May God bless the year ahead for you all bringing you peace, happiness and good health!

Wow, it was 59 degrees in here when I got up. Cold!!! We went to Betty's retirement party yesterday. That was really nice. Saw some people we haven't seen in a while and met some new ones! Tara and Jolyn did a great job with the food, etc.... and Betty looked so happy! Papa had to go to work. I went to Karla's for a little bit and checked out the kids Christmas Presents. That Dylan has quite a little cozy set up in his room! I could live in there! Came home and did much of nothing. Today we are staying away from church. I need to or I will not take the two weeks break I am suppose to be taking. Lanny and I are going to take time this morning to listen to Pastor Barry's message on the website and talk about plans for the year ahead and changes and how we're going to implement them. I need to go to mom's and help her rearrange things. Well....I hope your day is nice with only good surprises. God Bless!

Grandma got a cat!

Yesterday was a pretty good day. I started out checking out Craigs List for jobs and cats (I've been looking for a cat for mom....companionship with low maintenance). I found a 4 year old cat in Poulsbo that is sweet and a total lap cat. She is a bit on the pudgy side but has been fixed, had all her shots and totally housebroken. She hasn't been outside too much so we'll see on that later. I am posting a picture. Mom agreed to go look at her but had pretty much decided on getting her already....since we went to WalMart first for cat food and cat litter. They supplied a nice bed, food, her bowl, toys, a cat carrier, and litter box. When I left mom's the cat was hiding under her bed after exploring a bit. Libby went over and got her out but she went back under. I told mom she was going to take over her cave (what dad called her bedroom). It will take some getting used to. I think they'll be good for each other.

That's about all that happened yesterday. Today not much is going on. We're going to Betty's retirement party (Brad's mom). Lucky her! I'm looking for work and she is retiring. No rehearsal for me tonight! I am taking 2 weeks off from KidStuf. It will be nice. Well....have a wonderful Saturday! This week has gone fast!

sad news

My heart is very sad right now. A friend of ours committed suicide last Saturday. Kevon and Dave decided to wait and tell me after Christmas. He was long time resident, Denis Stark. I've known him since I moved here. He lived just down the road from me on Barber Cut-off Road where the school is now. Him and I and Buddy Beard used to sled on Anderson's Hill. He used to drive me, Karen Davies, and Buddy to school every day in his pick up truck during high school. We had so many great times. He married one of my best friends, Darlene Ryan, and they had 3 great kids before their marriage ended in divorce. I talked with Dar for awhile last night and they are all having a hard time with this. She is trying to help her kids (now adults) get through this tragedy. Kevon was just getting to know him.... they work in the same area. That is how he found out before it came out in the paper. His obituary should be coming out today or tomorrow. Please keep the whole family in your prayers. His services won't be until January 12th.

Yesterday we went and talked to an attorney about getting our personal stuff together. It is time. Then we went to Silverdale to get my glasses fixed...which they couldn't really do and it has been over 2 years since my last exam...so Lanny & I both made appointments for the end of January. It was so cool.... it snowed all day. The roads got a bit covered in Silverdale. Our ground was covered here. Very pretty...but now gone.

No plans for today. The lady from the place I interviewed at in Bremerton wants to meet with me and her boss on Monday. I've decided to have a New Years Eve party with food and games! I know Ron & Sharon, Craig & Cindy, and probably Jake & Patty will be coming so far. Let me know if you want to come!!!! We're starting at 7....Lanny doesn't get off til 8 but will be home as the party starts up. Should be fun. Just what we need!

Have a great day today! And a wonderful weekend!

boring entry....sorry!

I think I may have a sinus infection. I hope not. They sure have been stuffed up and I have had a bad headache all night. Second night in a row I had to get up because of coughing. Oh well. We just enjoyed lazing around yesterday. Made turkey and dumplins for dinner. Today we're going to get my glasses fixed and stuff. That's about it. Not much to say. I forgot to mention when I changed my page around...I put the special people I am thankful for and pray for in my calendar on my links page if you want to go to it. I know the people on there would appreciate your prayers too. I hope you all have a great day....sorry if this isn't more exciting today. They are talking snow today! That would be exciting! "And since we've no place to go....let it snow, let it snow, let it snow!"

Kevon & Meghan engaged!

Well, Christmas is over....so I changed my background to just snowmen. Winter isn't over yet and I like snowmen. I changed my family pictures, too.

We are doing absolutely nothing today and going absolutely nowhere! Papa is off all day! Will be nice!

Yesterday was eventful! The big news in our family is Kevon asked Meghan to be his wife and she got a beautiful engagement ring!!!! We are all so excited. We love Meghan very much! They called in the morning and stopped by last night to show me the ring. What a surprise! They both look so happy! Well, we had mom over for dinner yesterday. We had prime rib, julienne potatoes, salad, rolls, pumpkin pie and chocolate silk pie. Nummy. Over ate. Today Lanny and I are back on the wagon! We had a nice day. Joel, Karla and the kids came by with a video of their family the past year with music. I loved it! It was pretty awesome! And they gave me the gift Heather stole at our Christmas...kitchen gadgets! Joel thought I should have one too....very sweet of him! I really liked it alot! So did Karla so he got her one too! He's so thoughtful! Mom, Lanny and I watched a Christmas Story, some of Elf, and Jeff Dunham special. We laughed alot yesterday! And to top off the wonderful day it was snowing for most of it!!!! Snowing on Christmas Day hasn't happened around here in over a decade! That was cool! Hope you all have a wonderful day today! Rest, relax and recover!

MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY JESUS! What a wonderful day! Why God would send a baby to save the world is beyond me....it is more love than I can understand!!! Why anyone would not want to put their souls in the hands of this mighty God is beyond me, too. Today we are having mom over for prime rib dinner. Karla and family are stopping by for a little bit, too. David doesn't get his kids this week so he won't be over. Won't even get into that situation. I will miss him but I am happy mom will be here. It will be a quiet day but that is ok. We had such an awesome weekend. I posted a slideshow of our slumber party and of our Christmas day. Hope you enjoy them! And I hope you have a wonderful Christmas day! God bless you all!

~Father God,

I want to say a special "Thank you" today for the gift of Your Son, Jesus. Thank you that knowing Him can change a life! Help me today to have a heart full of the abundance of all Jesus is, love and gentleness, acceptance and caring. Help me to be filled with these things, by the power of the Holy Spirit, so that the fragrance of Christ will permeate wherever you have me today! In Jesus name I pray, Amen.

Christmas is about over for us!

YESTERDAY: Took Andrew, Lauren, Dylan and Maddie to KidStuf. Tara and the girls came too! We had a Christmas party with singing, games, a message from Pastor Ty, candy and treats. Kids had fun I think. Took them to McD's in Poulsbo and they played and had lunch. Karla picked up her kids and Ryan & Amanda came and got theirs. I came home and worked on pictures and we watched Seahawks win. Karla took Maddie to the doctor....she has a sinus infection. No wonder she was feeling so punk. I started feeling really bad last night. Fell asleep on the couch at 8:00.
TODAY: Have to go to Walmart this morning before the crowds and still working on pictures. Hope you all have a great day!

wow....life is great!

I don't think it could get any better than it did yesterday! I'm so happy! Thank you, Lord! The morning went great with a huge breakfast of bacon, sausage, pancakes, and egg mcmuffins! Kids ate great. They played, we rehearsed their present for the adults (a play), and got ready for the day. Jennifer and her dad, Dave, showed up. He had a nice tripod and camera all set up...it was great! We took a huge group shot, then papa and I stepped out, then we did just the grandkids. I would have liked to do each individual family but Jared wasn't having any of it and everyone else was getting restless by then. Then we let the kids open gifts while the remaining dishes cooked. Dinner turned out so good and the girls were a great help as usual....thanks girls!!! After dinner the adults did their gift exchange....the girls always steal from each other....we're ruthless. Heather stole from me, Meghan stole from me, I stole from Tara, Amanda stole from Tara, no one dared steal from Karla!!! The guys are all nice and never steal. Pansies! It was fun and we laughed so hard! The kids did the Christmas Story... Dylan read it while Andrew played the angel Gabriel and Mary's donkey, Parker was Joseph, Jordan was Mary, a stuffed Cookie Monster was baby Jesus, Patrick played the Innkeeper and 1st shepherd, Riley was 2nd shepherd, Lauren played Elizabeth and a sheep, Maddie was a little donkey and Joshua was a sheep. It was so darn cute! Thanks for recording Karla! I think the parents loved it! I was going to post the video but I introduced them using their last names....I don't post the grandkids last names. If you want a copy of it I will send it to you. Then Don had to head home and Papa had to go to work. So we had dessert first. Tara made great desserts! After that we played Taboo! Meghan loves that game and has gotten really good at it. Teams were Kevon & Meghan, me and Heather, Karla and Joel, Ryan and Amanda, and Brad & Tara. So much fun and you could feel the love in the air as the couples played each other! lol! Karla and Joel pulled it off and barely won! Everyone left and Andrew & Lauren got to spend the night with Mam & Papa again! I was excited about that! We cleaned the kitchen together and played Deal or No Deal and we won the million dollars!!!! We were so excited you would have thought we actually won it! We watched the Amanda Show again and Funniest Home Video's. We laughed so much! I accidentally scared Andrew and he laughed til he had tears. They greeted papa at the door and he brought mint ice cream cones home. They loved it and so did he! The perfect day! Only bad mark was I lost one of Patrick's present and so I gave him money when he left and Tara and Brad took him to WalMart and he bought the same gift on their way home. To make up for it.... Karla let him bring the adult gifts out and pass the bucket for us to draw numbers though....he liked doing that! And the other drag was Don & Papa had to leave, and Don and Maddie weren't feeling too well with their colds. But all in all I would give it a 9!
We're all going to the KidStuf Christmas party this morning! The kids are excited about that! Then we'll meet Ryan and Amanda. I imagine I will take a nap this afternoon. This cold is killing me! And I need rest. Papa has to work. Today I am so thankful for him and we are praying for him, Marcey, Ernestine and Marie! Also pray for Don, Parker and Maddie to get better! You all have a great day! Pictures coming when I have time!

all is calm, all is bright!

So far, so good! Slumber party has been fun! It is 5:30 and everyone is still asleep. When the kids got here we had pizza for dinner and then we opened gifts. The kids played and Jordan and I prepared for the tree making project (cones, frosting and decorations). The kids had fun and made a mess. Riley is the sprinkle queen and Patrick won for most frosting on a tree! Was fun! Then the kids had a dance party, we watched the Amanda Show and some Kid Nation. After Papa came home the kids had ice cream. Joel and Karla picked up Maddie...she has a cold and was wiped out. Parker was hacking alot and his throat hurt too so gave him some cough syrup at bedtime.We sang Christmas Carols and the kids liked that. Getting them to bed was a chore. Riley and Lauren slept with me in my bed, Andrew slept on the couch in the livingroom, Dylan and Parker took the couches in the den, and Patrick and Jordan took the floor in the den. Parker just got up for a drink and it is only 5:30 am. Lauren woke up in the middle of the night wanting mom. Riley didn't move all night. This morning I have to put the turkey in and get some cleanliness and order in this house! Everyone is coming for dinner at noon! My friend, Jennifer is coming to take a family picture of us all. That is my Christmas present! Today is the 22nd of December and I am thankful and praying for my family most of all. I am so thankful we can be together today and I am praying the kids aren't crabby and Maddie and Parker start feeling better! Also praying for niece Kara and nephew Ronnie!

Interviews, parties, and grandchildren!!!

I am so excited! This is going to be such a busy day! I have another interview at a retirement center for a receptionist position at 10:00. I have to clean my house and get ready for all the gremlins this afternoon! Our Christmas Slumber party is tonight! Andrew, Parker, Dylan, Jordan, Patrick, Lauren and Maddie will all be spending the night!!! We are going to have so much fun singing Christmas Carols, telling the Christmas story, making goodies and crafts, eating, games, etc!!! I just hope they aren't crabby for tomorrow...which is our Christmas Day! God has really blessed us! I am so thankful Andrew and Lauren are back to join us again this year!
So yesterday I had an interview with Heartland Toyota. It was with the manager and service manager. They were nice and I answered the questions accordingly. Then I went over to the Human Resource dept and filled out more paperwork. They are hiring 3 new schedulers so we'll see how that goes. That place is busy! Then we went to Melody's for our Christmas Party with the Bible Study Group. It was fun! Lots of food, white elephant exchange.... I got lotion pack and Lanny got something for Heather. Then the games began... and Jake set up cribbage for us. And he beat me both times. Jerk. Oh well... one of these days I will have my revenge!!! Ryan's first day at work went good....so that is awesome news, too.

Today is the 21st...and I am so thankful for Jared. I know he isn't thrilled about me yet...but he will love me just like the others one day. What a cutie! I am praying for him, my brother David (who is doing great), my brother Rick, nephew Danny, and Aunt Marcella! And, of course, for tonight and tomorrow! We are thankful Papa's step dad, Jack, came through his back surgery and it was successful. That is rare. Hope you all enjoy your weekend and God bless!

Party, Kevon, and Great News!

Yesterday turned out to be a pretty good day afterall. I took Maddie to school for Karla because she had to wait for her new stove to be delivered. Nothing can put a smile on my face faster than Maddie running to me saying "Mam mam!" with a big smile on her face like she hadn't seen me in weeks! Nice to be so loved! Next, I went to Libby's party. I am posting a slide show. There was me, mom, Tara, Libby, Kara, and Kate, Emerson's girlfriend. It is always a highlight of our holiday season and such a fun tradition! We all bring an ornament and draw numbers and the fun begins. Mom was number 3... got the ornament I brought and Libby was number 4 and stole it. Mom had to open another and it was this cute snowman Tara bought....I was number 5 and stole it. Soooooo Mom had to open another one! Kara decided not to steal from grandma a 4th time. It was funny. We had a real nice lunch of cold cuts, salad, wings, mac & cheese, rolls, etc... and lots of chocolate! Everyone seem to bring chocolate this year! What a shame! I brought a plate home but Kevon came over so I made him take it. He bought a ham for Saturday and brought it over and also brought this singing Christmas tree that Meghan's grandpa Charlie gave to me. What a character. I love her grandparents! The grandkids are going to love this tree. Kevon stayed over an hour visiting. Didn't get the sink fixed. Too busy talking. It was nice. On the way home from Libby's I got a phone call from Heartland Toyota to come in for an interview today at 4:00! I think it is a service scheduling coordinator or something like that. I apply for so many jobs each week I lose track so I have to look it up. I keep record....just for reasons like this. I just read something interesting about interviews: The point is that you have to treat the interview with care and respect. The Lord will open those doors he want opened and close those he wants closed, if you are willing to be led, but in either case, we need to treat each door as if it is God's will until he makes clear his desire. That is really true. Now....the greatest news of the day was that Ryan starts work today!!!! I talked to Amanda and then Ryan called on his way over the pass! You can just hear the happiness in his voice! I am so happy for them! Thank you, God!!! Thank you to all who have been praying! And keep praying his job goes great!

Today is the 20th and I am so thankful for my best friend, Sharon. She has been one of my consistent friends who never loses touch with me and is always there for me. I love her very much. Keep her and Ron in your prayers.... another couple searching for God's will in their lives.

Happy Birthday Sherri!

I'm still bummed this morning and feeling a little more insecure and rejected. I kind of thought I had the job...the way he was talking. But I remember yesterdays Daily Bread and it helps. It says this about God:
1. He knows everything we do. He knows all the activities of our day and every detail of our schedule.
2. He knows everything we think...the good and the bad, the wholesome and the impure.
3. He knows everywhere we go.
4. He knows everything we say.
5. He knows us better than we know ourselves...and even with all our flaws, doubts, and weaknesses...He loves us so completely!
He knows my needs and desires. It is all in His time. He still has me in His hands and is watching out for me. Keep me in your prayers that I keep looking up and to Him. Please pray that for Ryan & Amanda too as they seek the direction God wants them to go. Sometimes it's hard.

Last night was Dylan's concert. It was really good. It was a combined concert with the high schoolers. Dylan looked so cute up there. Maddie was pretty good...climbing between the laps of me, her mom and her grandpa.

Today is Libby's ornament/cookie exchange. Hopefully that will bring my spirits up. Been a rough week. Today is my friend's birthday, Sherri Dumdei Forbes! We were best buds in 9th and 10th grade. Inseparable. Met in 8th. Her parents owned Kingston Inn so we got to hang out in Kingston all the time and eat free food. We had some great times and I love her!

I am thankful for Sherri, Heather, and Libby.... and I am praying for them all today!!! I hope you all have a great day!

another update....

I didn't get the job. I cried. :(

I needed this!!!!

Psalms 46:10 Be still, and know that I am God.

In one passage in John, Mary and Martha come running to Jesus, asking Him to heal Lazarus, who was critically ill. Since Lazarus was a good friend of Jesus, I'm sure they were expecting that Jesus would come immediately to his aid. The scripture says, however, that Jesus stayed two more days in the place where He was. It was in those two days that Lazarus died.It's so hard to understand why it is that God waits to do the things we ask of Him. It’s good for us to remember, though, that He has His purposes for waiting. God was about to teach everyone involved a much deeper lesson here. As Jesus raised Lazarus from the dead, He made sure they all understood that He is the resurrection and the life for all who believe. God has His perfect timing for everything under heaven. You may be waiting for God to intervene in some area of your life. You may have been begging and pleading with God for years on that particular thing. But we can relax and know that God’s timing is perfect. We never know what God is doing behind the scenes, in order that our joy would be made full. Remember that He knows best what would bless us most and He is working all things for those of us who love Him and are called according to His purposes. Relax. God is in control. He has greater things for you than what you could ask or think!

Waiting, visiting, planning....

Didn't find out anything about the job last night. They didn't call or email. Oh well. I applied for another one this morning in Poulsbo. After the interview I went to lunch with Karla. It was nice....no kids! Walked around WalMart and saw Sharon. We visited for a long time! I miss her. Then I just came home. Worked on some Christmas presents I am making. I feel like I am forgetting things lately. Very disoriented. I guess I don't feel organized and it drives me crazy. Best get a list going for the week. Tonight is Dylan's concert. I am excited about that. And I am cleaning as usual. How can a house get so messy with only 2 people? Oh well. Today is the 18th and I thank the Lord for little Riley and am saying special prayers for her today! And for my nephew Donny, Uncle Jake, friends Craigmont and Nancy Keller! I am so blessed to have these people in my life. Have a great day!

quick update

I went on my interview. I think it went good. The veterinarian was very nice as was the girl out front. There is him, his assistant, an office manager, and receptionist. Interesting place. I find out tonight if I get a call back. Keep praying.

Interview today!

I have my job interview today at 12:30. We found the place yesterday after church. That is all the plans I have for today besides going to the store for papa.

Yesterday Maddie and Dylan went to church with us. Dylan wasn't feeling well after we got there. His stomach got upset. Watched a couple Christmas movies I recorded and lazed around in the afternoon. It was raining and I wasn't feeling all that good. I better not get that cold!

Today is the 17th and I am very thankful for Meghan and I am praying for her! Also praying for one of my bestest friends Cheryl Bussing and cousin Dave Brazeau and this interview!

Have a wonderful Monday!

Rest, Rehearsal, and Riding

Papa rested yesterday. I think his cold is getting better. I took some Dayquil to him at work last night and he didn't even need it. He put away 4 carts of returns in 4 hours. That is a lot. He was busy. Said it sure makes time fly. I worked on my photo albums. Check out on the link to the right. I have been getting grandkids done and some of the kids. Got lots to do. It will be nice to have my pictures saved somewhere else other than my computer and disks. I have the disk's in a firebox but who knows if that would save them. My pictures are very important to me. I love pictures....but you all probably know that, right? I went to rehearsal last night. I don't know how much longer I can do that. My night blindness has gotten worse. I went into the wrong lane at that new stupid change they did coming off the freeway and heading towards East Bremerton! I have a headache by the time I get there from trying to focus where the road is. Scares you that I'm out there, huh? That is why Papa always drove before. I may cut back on some of my duties as director of KidStuf. With our new Children's Pastor I think I can do that.
I have another job interview. At an equine vet office. I really don't like horses but I tell ya, I have applied everywhere. I would be fine as long as I don't have to ride them or touch them. Today we just have kidstuf planned.

I want to thank you Heather, for all your encouragement. It means so much to me that you believe in me when I barely believe in myself. It helps me to want to succeed. I think encouragement must be one of your spiritual gifts. I appreciate it so much!!!!! And need it! I am going to add riding my exercise bike every day to my daily routine!

Today is the 16th of December! The year is almost over....thank the Lord!!!! I also thank him for my family. I can't even begin to count all the blessings He has given to our family. Time after time we have seen Him work in our families lives..... births, finances, stressful situations, jobs, health issues, conflicts, protection, dealing with loss, and so much more....He has always been there for us!!! Thank you, God!!!!!!

Doctor, Shopping, and Maddie!

Yesterday was a busy day! I went to the doctor with Papa. Dr. Brody is a bit puzzled at his rash. I ended up going and buying unscented everything (soaps, deodorant, lotion) and he gave him some stronger ointment. If it isn't better in two weeks he has to see a dermatologist. You can see by the picture it doesn't look so good. Him and Kid are napping. That is what he calls the cat and that is where the cat sleeps all the time. Doctor got on him about gaining weight back. His blood pressure is climbing again so he upped his medication and he checked his glucose levels. Lanny said walking walmart is great for him. But I've noticed him eating more. That is going to stop. We don't want to go through what we went through last summer. Especially him! And we don't want that for our families. It helps to inspire me to keep at it. I am excited to report I've lost 5 pounds this week. I am sure it is water, but it is still 5 pounds and that is good! I've decided 3 or 4 times a week to walk Walmart. It is huge inside and out and it is the only way I can walk without my back hurting...holding on to the cart. I also have my exercise bike at home and my walk out video I am doing. I can't afford to go to WalMart every day. The gas costs too much. It is 11 miles from my house. But all stores are that far. I can't wait to move closer to civilization. Anyone want to buy a house? Please pray for us. Everything in life seems like a never ending battle. Anyway, after the doctor I met Tara in Silverdale where we walked around shopping. That was nice. Ran into my friend Jennifer with son Jacob. Hoping she will take our family picture next week....if we all can get to our house. Keep on praying. Went and picked up Maddie and took her to school. She is Star of the Week so I took some pictures. She was so cute. Watched the Dog Whisperer in the evening on National Geographic channel. Caesar is so awesome!!!!

Today we are doing nothing but cleaning. Well, I will be and Papa will be resting, hopefully. We are back to rehearsal's on Saturday night with KidStuf so I will be going there tonight. I am thankful for our nephew Emerson and cousin Linda. Please pray for them and continued prayer for healing for Papa & please don't forget Waverly, his mom, in your prayers. Thanks. Don't forget to look at my slide shows! I changed some pictures and added "couple" pics! And I love the new weather site. You can see current conditions and click on forecast without going anywhere. Not so hot on new Bible Verse thing. May change that. Enjoy your day!

Jazz things up!

Thought I would jazz things up with a different design. What do ya think? A little Hello Kitty is good. Unfortunately when you change designs on your blogger...it doesn't work like myspace. You lose all your extras and have to put them back on! So that is time consuming. But this is good until after Christmas anyway. 10 days!!!! I am so ready and excited! This week we have Dylan's concert on Tuesday...which I am looking forward to! Then we have Libby's annual Cookie/Ornament exchange on Wednesday! It is just a girls thing! No guys, no kids. This year it will be me, Lib, Kara, Karla, Tara, and mom. Some years we've had Amanda, Heather, Lois and Denise... but they all live across the mountains so they haven't been able to come. It is always fun and one of the things I really look forward to at the Christmas season!!! Then we have our family Christmas on Saturday! If Ryan & Amanda make it over (PLEASE PRAY THEY DO!!!!) the whole family will be together....all 22 of us! First time in a couple years. What a blessing that would be. I don't need or want any Christmas presents. I just want us to be together. I guess you can't really understand it until your kids are grown and gone. Then things like that matter so much. And we're planning on having the grandkids slumber party!!! That is always a highlight! No wonder this is my favorite time of the year! We celebrate my bestest friend, Jesus, and I get to be with my family. I am so thankful Papa made it this year!!! It would have been a different scenario. Please keep him in your prayers. This cold hit hard!
Yesterday: Went through all my medicines in both bathrooms and threw all the expired stuff away. I had some from 2005! Now they are all in one location. I met Karla and Maddie at walmart. Maddie came home with me and we baked cookies. We didn't make bible study. Papa was too sick. Well....the Christmas clock went off so it is 6 a.m. I am going to go finish cleaning my bedroom. Then go to the doctor with Papa and meet Tara at Target. Then I am going to see Maddie be Star of the Week at her school! Busy day! Don't forget to lift up Ryan finding a job, them coming over, Papa being sick, and the 14th people Don Culton (who has quit smoking 1 year...congrats!!!), and Lanny's sister Rita up to the Lord in prayer!!! God listens and works in our lives each day! Hope you have a good day!

Thursday

It is Thursday the 13th and I am so thankful for Kevon!!! We've always had such a good relationship. He is sometimes too honest with me but that's one of the reasons we are close. Plus he's one of my biggest supporters and defenders. Please pray for Kev today. Also for my niece Brittni. Pray for Papa...he messed up his back again, the rash is bad on his leg and now he itches all over, plus he has a cold. Not his year. He has a doctor's appointment tomorrow. Also pray for Dylan....he has a bad cough. And Jordan messed up her ankle the other day....pulled a ligament... so please pray for quick healing on her and everyone. Thanks!

Yesterday I got a lot of cleaning done. I washed down the cupboard doors (white, don't ya love it?), dishes, laundry, dusted, etc... I did my 15 minute exercise video and later walked Toby down to the beach. He loved it and is doing better on the leash. Kills my back though. Put a roast in the crockpot with some cream of chicken soup and seasonings. It makes the house smell so good all day! Papa was off from Walmart. I love it when he is home at night! He even rubbed my feet with lotion. Gotta love it!

Today I have to go to the store to get a few things for our Christmas dinner. I think I will go through bathroom stuff....dumping expired medications etc. and putting it all in one bathroom. And clean my bedroom. That's about it. And of course...looking for work. Guess I best get busy then, huh? Have a great day!!! I pray God's protection around your heart, mind and body.

Christmas in the Northwest!

It is nice to see Christmas everywhere. So many lights! I had such a wonderful day yesterday!!!! Maddie wanted to spend the day with her mam and we had a blast. We baked and frosted a spice cake, sent dancers to people on the computer (she laughed so hard doing those), played games, cleaned house, moved stuff and decorations around a bit, watched Shrek the Halls and Spongebob, ate, played with the animals, etc.... and nuggled alot!!! It was so good for me to have her here. She kept telling me "You're the best mam in the whole world" and "I love you mam!!!" I needed that. Dylan came with Karla to pick her up and just didn't have enough time to tell me all he wanted to say. He is so handsome. Heather called and said Patrick is doing great in his new class. He is so happy and less stressed. Answer to prayer. We got an email from Jack McCann yesterday (Lanny's stepdad). It was so good to hear from him and it will be nice to stay in touch through the internet with him. I would have lost touch with a lot of people if it wasn't for Al Gore inventing the internet. (just kidding) I have to go out today and get some paper. That is about it. Hope you all have a great day today.

tuesday....just another day.

Cute picture of the boys looking asleep. I don't think Mona was pretending though!

Today is the 11th. We are thankful for a cousin/friend like Renee and pray for her and her family! Just cleaning out stuff today. That's all I ever do it seems.

Yesterday I worked on KidStuf all day and job stuff. I put in at a horse vet yesterday. I hate horses. Whatever.

Hope you all have a great day! Here is the picture of me and cousin Bob! And me with his daughter Amy!

Baby, it's cold outside!

Sure has been cold the past few days. They're calling for rain later this week so it may warm up. I love my picture of the day. I had just bought this potty chair and I peeked in the toy room a bit later and the Lauren was trying to use it with Maddie instructing her. It was so precious. I love kids!

YESTERDAY: Went to KidStuf and church. Will be glad to get back to Saturday night rehearsals. Things don't go as well when we do it Sunday morning. Church was good. Sat with our KidStuf gang...John, Kelly, Heidi, Kurt, Glenn & Elissa. After church we came home & I scarfed some chicken down and ran out to Holly's. She was having a family gathering I crashed. Mom was there, too. I got to see all the DeLay's and their wives. Didn't see Jim, though. Visited with my favorite...Bob for awhile. When I left he insisted I take a roll he made....and it was really good! I need that recipe! And I got to visit with Heidi and Betsy...who I never have the chance to just chat with. And it was good catching up with Amy...as brief as it was. We had a lot more talking to do but I had to get to the church. Can't wait to see the pictures Linda took. I need to post one of me and Bob because he wants his picture on my blog. lol! Got my fill of hugs...especially from Larry. Went to the church Dessert Theater...by myself because I couldn't find a date. Sad, huh? But it was an amazing performance. I felt like a proud mama watching Brian and Lindsey Jacobs star in it. They did so great. And Mark Carlton is almost 100% healed from Belles palsy! He told me God just got sick of hearing his name with all the people praying for him so decided to heal him. I was impressed with the whole production. Went to WalMart and saw Papa and got a few groceries. And yes... I picked up the guy gift...with his approval.
THANKFUL: Today I am thankful for Amanda. I am thankful God gave her and Ryan to each other, too. I am saying super special prayers for her today! And for nephew Jack, b-i-law Kevin, niece Alyssa, and friends Ron Davison and Cindy Beck!
Nothing planned today except cleaning and exercising. Toby and I are going out today, too. Well, stay warm!

Sunday already

PICTURE OF THE DAY: Riley and Jorday 2004!

I didn't even leave the house this weekend. There's not much to report. We cleaned off the back porch and Papa got on the roof with baking powder. (It takes the moss off). I am getting so stressed about the rash on his leg and his itching. He made a doctor appointment for this coming Friday. I'm going with him. Since I have no life I will tell you about his walmart stories. The other night a couple was in there and Walmart didn't have something and he says to his wife "That's because all they hire is retards here." Lanny kept his cool and said nothing. I am shocked and impressed. He HATES the word "retard" because of his brother, Michael. Then there was an old man that reprimanded some other guys for playing with the balls. That was pretty funny. They put the balls back and left. Last night there were 100 cops with 100 kids in a program called "Shop with a Cop." Each kid gets $100 dollars to buy for themselves or for their families. Pretty cool program. I took the flood slideshow off my site.... if you want any of the pictures let me know and I can send them to you. Since today is the 9th I am going to say extra prayers for Ryan!! I am so thankful for him. Please pray he finds the perfect job for him and his family. I know, like me, God has one out there for him! He has never been without work long. Also pray for nieces Jessica and Ashley & nephew Matthew, and cousin Pete. We'll be going to church this morning...hopefully it won't be snowing as hard when we get out as last week!!! Have a great day! Go Seahawks!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, DENISE!

Today is my niece's birthday, Denise! She is a great girl with a great heart and wonderful way of writing. I think she should write a book. Her imagination and wit would make a great book! I hope you have a great birthday and a happy & healthy year ahead! I love you!

YESTERDAY: I finished decorating the tree. It looks nice and the cat isn't bothering it...just sleeps under it. I got my laundry done and the house cleaned. I lost my cat last night and started getting really worried! Then I remembered the last time I saw her was when Papa left around 3 or so. It was 7:30 and I remembered he was in the garage before he left so I checked and there she was. She was very affectionate when she came in for a very long time. Poor baby. Maybe she will quit slipping in there everytime someone goes there! Maybe not.

TODAY: I am cleaning off the back deck today. Fun. Suppose to be sunny but cold. Pretty windy out this morning.

THANKS AND PRAYER: Today I am thankful for Denise! And I will pray for her! Also, since it is the 8th we are praying for Maddie today! She is in our picture of the day again because it is such a great picture of the "aweness of Christmas" to children. Also we are praying for our great nephew Jonah, my Aunt Lorraine, and Jack McCann...Lanny's step dad.

SPECIAL PRAYER REQUEST: Please pray for my nephew, Justin. We found out last night that he is in the Marines and getting sent to Kuwait. We're asking for God to surround him with His angels and strength for the family. Justin has always been so special to our family. He used to come over with his parents and stay the weekend about once a month when he was little. Here is a picture of when he was little with Tara and one now. Great kid.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, SIS!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY LOIS!!!! Today is my big sister's birthday! She lives over in Yakima so I don't get to celebrate it with her.... but I hope and pray she has a wonderful day and many happy and healthy years ahead! I love this picture of her with her daddy! I love you, lolo! Don't expect bells & whistles and enthusiasm with the rest of this blog today. Woke up pretty crabby with Lanny looking in the closet with a flashlight and me realizing I didn't wash his walmart clothes for tonight. I felt so bad. It is funny how it can set your mood when you mess up...plus I slept so bad last night. Seem to have a lot of worry on my plate... which is bad. So today I am doing laundry, I'm going to finish my tree, and clean.


YESTERDAY: I was so busy cleaning, making room for the tree and putting it up. I don't know if I will put up a tree anymore. It is a lot of work and not a lot of fun by yourself. I couldn't help but reflect on the years we would all decorate the tree as a family and play Christmas music. Not overly thrilled with this time in my life. Can you tell? For the first time in my life... I feel like I have no purpose. Feels awful.


Last night we went to Riley's Christmas concert! That was good! They are always good. And she was beautiful, of course. Then we went to bible study at Bill and Lana's in Poulsbo. People are still missing because of the Dessert Theater. I would love to go see a performance. But no money. I keep praying for the ones involved, many who are friends of mine!


Today I am thankful for Lois and she is in my prayers today and always. I am also thankful for Joel, Tara, and cousin June! And I will say special prayers for their needs today. Don't forget to stop and remember Pearl Harbor and all the lives affected by the devastation. God bless you all and your day! Hope you all have a great weekend, too!

Just the tree

TODAY: I love that picture of Patrick. I think Aunty Amanda took it. Cracks me up! Hard to believe it was 4 years ago today! Patrick was only 4!Well, all I have left is to put the tree up. Just figuring out where to put it. I will do that today. I have a lot of house work to catch up on, too! Been gone for 2 days in a row.
YESTERDAY: I met with Tara yesterday. We had a nice time walking around WalMart... with no kids! Felt a bit weird at first. But we got accustomed to it. I finished our Christmas shopping. Now Papa just has to buy a "guy gift". He didn't like my idea's so he is buying it himself. My monitor went out a while back and for Christmas Papa let me order a new one. It came yesterday. Now I am not squinting with my face against the screen anymore. I am happy.
THANKFUL: Today is the 6th and I am so thankful for my sister-in-laws Betty (Doug's wife) and Susan (Lanny's sister) and Rita (Rick's ex-wife)! Please keep these special ladies in your prayers. Also keep cousin Caitlin and Kurt Hoyt in your prayers today, also! Today is my friends birthday, Lindsay Manchester. Happy Birthday to you, Lindsay!
Everyone else have a happy day, too!!!

almost done!

Well, yesterday was a good day. I picked up Karla and the kids in the morning. We looked at the house we lived in Poulsbo. They are adding to it and ruined the yard years ago. She took a picture which we should get out soon? It looks bad. Then we went to McD's and WalMart. Dylan cracks me up! He was talking about what he wants to me on Halloween (don't know why he was talking about that) and he wants to paint his face brown and go as a black person (some superhero). I told him about when Kevon went as OJ Simpson one year. He asked, "Who's that? Is he one of the Simpson's?" Karla and I laughed. I guess he wouldn't know who he is. Anyway, I finished up our Christmas shopping except Riley and Jordan... and I am meeting Tara today at 9:30. That will be fun. Then I will be done. I even wrapped them last night. So we're about ready for Christmas. We got my first 2 Christmas cards in the mail yesterday....from cousin Holly and Cpt Bob & Kathy! I love getting cards. Kathy's are always prints from a water color she painted. Real pretty. Lanny also received a jury summons. I rewrote my resume yesterday and sent out another. I think it sells me better. Whatever that means.



I am thankful for Parker today. What a big boy with a big heart! I am also thankful for Brad. He is such a good dad, husband & provider for his family. We are so proud of him! I am also thankful for my brother, Doug. It was so great to see him again. I wish he lived near us. I am also thankful and praying for Savannah, nephew Justin, and brother-in-law Randy. Have a good day and stay dry.

I am thankful!

We made it through yesterday and last night without losing our power. I am so thankful! But yesterday was so strange! We didn't get the storm you all got! There was rain off and on, but not the torrential downpour everyone else got! We had a gust of wind here and there but nothing major. All day I was on the phone and watching weather reports as I looked outside wondering when it was coming here. I guess I do live in Paradise! haha! Jordy has no school today and Dylan is two hours late. Poulsbo flooded, Silverdale flooded, highways and roads closed, etc.... but I missed it. I feel like I live in another place. All the kids left work early.... even Papa was sent home. Kevon said he got to his truck and the water was up to his floorboards. And it is a high truck. The rains are still coming. It is a mess. I am thankful all our kids live on hills!!! Mom is safe and sound and cosy too. Our meeting in Bremerton was canceled last night, too.

Got some Christmas shopping done last night online... so I am very pleased with myself. Talked with Amanda, Andrew, Lauren, Heather, Tara, and Karla to get idea's. Helped alot. I will be done today, I imagine. Not buying much. No credit cards this year...only cash. There is not other way to go.

Sent another resume out yesterday. Still sending a couple a week out. Not sure when God will see fit to give me a job. Not sure what the hold up is.

Today is the 4th and I am so thankful today for Patrick!!! He is funny, smart, and just an awesome cutie! Please keep him in your prayers....especially where math is concerned. Seems to be his struggle right now. His braces are doing good now...unless he bumps his mouth! Also keep sister-in-law Connie in your prayers, cousin Holly, and niece-in-law Tiffany. And Kev's friend Jerk (Jeff) just became a daddy for the first time. Please keep that baby in your prayers. Hope you have a wonderful day! God bless and be careful out there!

This Christmas, if you wonder who loves you and how much, remember the answer you're reading here: God loves you as if you were His one and only love. God poured out all His love upon you when He sent Jesus.
"God loves each one of us as if there were only one of us to love." Saint Augustine

correction....

Ok...I'm messed up. On our prayer and thanksgiving list I put people born on the 2nd when today is the 3rd. But I didn't post them yesterday when I should so we can thank the Lord and pray for them today too....plus Joshua, Jordan and Kristen!!!!

that was weird!

Yesterday was weird! It wasn't snowing much when we left for church.... but the closer we got the more it was snowing. And it snowed huge flakes the whole time we were there. Since we had to drive so far... we decided to go home after KidStuf was over. Good idea. The roads were the worst we've driven in ages. The state had no snow plows or sanders out on the freeways... we saw a county truck on the overpass on Central Valley. People are stupid in their driving.... they tailgate you like they can stop on a dime or pass like it's dry out. We just go slow and steady and smart. One little pickup passed us and went in the ditch by Ridgetop. Another car passed us and I have video of him going in the ditch. It waspretty scary. We got home safely though. While watching the Seahawks our power went out. So we had a nap. Then I decided I didn't want to sit home in the dark so I had the smart idea to go to Walmart with Lanny and shop. Plus Meghan invited me to her mom's birthday party down at Campana's so I thought that sounded fun. Well, it was raining by now and we get to WalMart and it is closed! No power! But Lanny still has to work. So I went down to Rite Aid and walked around and then to Campana's. Had a great time sitting with Kev, Meg, Lauren, and Grandpa Charlie & Grandma! They are such fun people! The service was terrible, the chef dropped our ticket somehow so we ended up waiting an hour for pizza's! Then Kevon pointed out they tasted just like the bread we were given except with the marinara sauce we weren't given. lol! It was true. Well, we were there from 5:30 until 7:30 and then I picked up Papa and came home. Power was still out. Then it came on, then it went off, then it came on, then it went off, then it went on, then it went off, get the picture? We just went to bed. It is still on so I guess we are ok. The winds are 80 mph at the coast already and we're expecting winds. great.
Today is my nephew's birthday, Ryan. He is Ricky's boy and my parents oldest great grandchild! He is 21 today! Happy birthday Ryan! Please pray for him and for Lauren (Ryan or Amanda....call me if you are reading this please), Karla, Uncle Alvin, Rhonda, Hilary, Vicky, Taylor Ann and Amy Beth!!! The 2nd is always long! Have a wonderful day!

I LOVE MY FAMILY!

We had the best time yesterday!!! It is the happiest I've been in ages. And the snow wasn't a negative....it turned into a wonderful bonus! The kids and Uncle Kevon had fun building a snowman, playing football, and throwing snowballs! Kevon taught Maddie how to make a snowball and he threw it at the lattice and it sprayed all over my back! You can see they had fun by the pictures up above. Guess Kevon will never move from the kids table. He actually wanted to sit with them and they laughed and had the best time at that table!!! And don't you love the picture of Karla and the cat? Most of you know that she doesn't like animals. Funny how cats know that and gravitate to that person. We were all laughing at her.... especially Joel and the kids. She wouldn't touch Punkin though. Later we played Taboo. Tara and I partnered up and won! Barely. Karla & Joel got a slow start but actually caught up and Kevon & Meghan did pretty good, too. It was Meghan & Joel's first time at playing it but by the end of the game they had it down. Everyone got home safely and Papa (who had to work Walmart 4-8pm) got home safe, too. I was worried because it was snowing again after everyone left and the roads were covered. I worry more than I should. Mom didn't make it because she was worried about the snow. A lady raised in South Dakota afraid of snow???? We even offered her a ride. Oh well.

Today is KidStuf and church. Then we'll come home and rest...Papa will need a nap. He was up coughing last night. And he has to go back to Walmart at 4 again. Well....that's it for now. Hope your weekend is going as well.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY BECCA!

YESTERDAY: It turned out to be a very nice day....very fast! Lanny kicked me out as he did the fleabusters so I took mom some pictures and printed off her Christmas letter (the one she put in her website....check it out!) It was nice. We watched "Dog Whisperer" together. I love that show. It is my new addiction. It is amazing how much he loves dogs and they know it, yet he treats them like dogs and doesn't believe in letting them run the house. It isn't good for the dogs or the people. He basically retrains the people. You have to watch it on National Geographic if you have problems with your dog. He makes so much sense. Anyway.... we sure enjoyed our visit. I programmed all her phones so they had eveyones phone numbers in them and showed her how to use them. Papa went to work last night and I went to my interview. The man is so nice. He thinks my age is an advantage because of maturity, dependability, etc... I agree. But I need to sell myself more on my resume so I am redoing it. It's hard to sell yourself when you don't have very high self-esteem. So I got the sermon from Kevon on the phone for awhile regarding that.... maybe I should call it an Encouragement talk instead. He loves me and believes in me and I needed it. I am better than I think. Larry Nelson (Komo radio) said years ago "Do not let other people's opinion of you become your reality." I seemed to believe that for others.... now I have to believe it for myself. I can't let some people that treat me like I am not important and don't matter...and make it my reality.... because it is not true. I do matter. Wow, another soap box. The man also said I am very nice and presented myself well. However, I knew that being out of work taking care of grandkids would hurt me when looking for work and the fact that I don't know many of the computer programs companies use nowadays. I am a quick learner though. Bottom line: he is keeping my resume on top, if not for this full time job than part-time during tax season.... plus he said he will refer me to others looking for employees. That was nice. We'll find out next week.

TODAY: Well....I am watching the weather....not looking good. I've wanted snow for a week now but NOT TODAY! They are saying 2-4 inches. I am pretty sure it won't stop Joel or Kevon. But Tara has farther to come and Brad is working all day so she won't be able to chance it. Look for a huge weight gain in her family if that is the case... because she was spending last night making all the desserts for today! If no one shows up my diet is in trouble!!! I have a 24 pound bird in the oven! I am praying!!! It is already snowing and sticking some places and it isn't even 8:00! I am glad the other kids aren't coming now.... they are expecting a couple feet on the passes.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY BECKY BOO!!!! Today is our niece/God daughter's birthday.... Becky in Oklahoma. She goes by Becca now and is married with 2 boys and has been there and helped Grandma Wave so much all these years. We love her so much! We thank the Lord for her! God bless you, Becky, and keep you safe! Please keep her in your prayers today.

Well, this should be an interesting day.