Day In The Life Of Me

Back Out In The Open

2010-09-27T23:23:00.004-05:00

So I haven't really blogged in a LONG time. I have decided to try and blog again. I have also taken the restricted viewing off of my blog. I am not employed anywhere right now and since I really don't have much to identify me, I don't think potential employers could find the blog and use it against me, not that there is anything crazy out here, but people can twist things how they want, no matter what you do. I am on Facebook, but you can't really find me and so I think things are "safe" again.
I have missed journaling the stories of everyday happenings and fun anecdotes and just being able to dialogue with people. We are so out of touch with people in our lives because of distance and I feel like blogging opens up lines of communication to our family and friends. Not everyone is on the internet, and there are many not on Facebook, so blogging is just a different way to get things out.
I don't know if anyone checks anymore, but I hope to have both this blog and the food blog updating from this point on.
Good night for now!

3rd Anniversary

2010-09-27T23:14:00.003-05:00

I cannot believe how fast time flies. Today marks three years since I underwent life-altering gastric bypass surgery! I have nearly made my weight loss goal, falling shy by just 10 pounds, and that is completely my own fault. I am too lazy to exercise, and thus, I still have the "spare tire" to take care of.
I am so thankful that I have had very few complications. I did end up having a 2nd surgery 16 months after the bypass to have my gall bladder removed, but it was a known complication that was a matter of WHEN and not IF. The only other complication has been a nagging pain in my left lower quadrant that still has not ceased, but several medical exams including MRI, CT and ultrasound can find nothing wrong with me. I do have times when the "dumping syndrome" occurs, but more or less, its my fault for eating something I shouldn't have eaten or eating too much of something that is supposed to be smaller portioned.
All in all, I am blessed!
Here's to hoping life is only more blessed in the future!

National Adoption Day

2009-11-21T09:00:00.002-06:00

Today, November 21st, is National Adoption Day.

If you are in a situation where you are considering adoption, please, for the sake of the baby you carry, choose life.

Please consider adoption today. If you don't feel like your family is complete or if you are having trouble starting or adding to your family, this is such a wonderful gift, for both you and the child.

National Adoption Month

2009-11-01T09:00:00.002-06:00

November is National Adoption Month.

Please consider adoption this month. If you don't feel like your family is complete or if you are having trouble starting or adding to your family, this is such a wonderful gift, for both you and the child.

Pro-Life Day of Silent Solidarity

2009-10-20T09:00:00.001-05:00

Today, October 20th, is Pro-Life Day of Silent Solidarity.

Please, if you are pregnant unexpectedly, please consider life as an option for your child whether you keep him or her or give them up for adoption.

Choose life!

National Day of Remembrance for Pregnancy and Infant Loss

2009-10-15T09:00:00.000-05:00

Today is a day of memorial.
It is National Day of Remembrance for Pregnancy and Infant Loss.
Did you know such a day existed? I didn't, not until last year.
I know several people ~ friends, family, strangers ~ who have lost their precious children. Some lost them early in pregnancy, never really knew them, yet it is still loss. Some lost them later in pregnancy or at birth, loss. And there are those who for no understandable reason, lost their precious baby after bringing them home, bonding, loving, and then loss.
National Day of Remembrance for Pregnancy and Infant Loss is meant to educate people and support people during their time of grief.Please take a moment today to say a prayer for the families who have had this loss. I am sure there is someone you know who fits into this category. If you do, give them a hug today, send them a note, let them know you are thinking of them.

National Breast Cancer Awareness Month

2009-10-01T09:00:00.000-05:00

Did you know that October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month?
It is.
You probably know someone that has been affected by breast cancer, some living, some no longer with us.
Please remember to do your monthly self exams and get your mammograms as your doctor recommends. This is something that if caught early enough, can be fought and the battle won!
In memory of my Grama Sophie and my great Aunt Patricia, I dedicate this post. I love you and miss you!

National Foster-Care Month

2009-05-01T09:00:00.002-05:00

May is National Foster-Care Month.

Please consider adoption this month. If you don't feel like your family is complete or if you are having trouble starting or adding to your family, this is such a wonderful gift, for both you and the child.
Older children and sibling groups in the system have a much harder time being placed, won't you consider one today?

Tuesday Funnies ~ Jess again

2009-03-10T09:00:00.000-05:00

So Jess got a toddler bed and the crib went byebye. We weren't really sure how he was going to do without bars holding him in, so of course, the first night, mom was a little hesitant, but pleasantly surprised when he actually stayed there and slept most of the night. The second night went okay as well. So the other day, it was nap time and she put him in his bed and told him it was nighnight time. As she closes the door she hears Jess....."Mean....Mom....Mean....Mom....Mean....Mom".
She struggles not to laugh right then and there, but manages to walk away before letting the belly laugh take over.
Where do kids learn these things??

Have a good Tuesday!!

Tuesday Funnies ~ My Stepdad Mike

2009-03-03T09:00:00.000-06:00

So, I couldn't resist posting about this because I just laughed so hard, I knew you all would think it was funny too.
My stepdad was down at his parents house helping out with a building project. That evening, he went to shower and clean up. My Grama has one of those Scrubbing Bubbles Automatic Shower cleaning kits and my dad, not really awake at the time, decided it was soap and he'd use it. Then he heard the warning beeps.
BEEP, BEEP, BEEP.
He realized when it started spraying in a circle for fifteen seconds, that it was soap alright, but not the kind he was looking for!!
Oh to have seen his face when he came back down the hall to tell everyone!

Hope you enjoy the laugh!

Favorite Foto Friday ~ 2/27/09

2009-02-27T08:00:00.000-06:00

I haven't had a Favorite Foto Friday in a LONG time, so I thought we were due.
This week, the photo is of a sign that is similar to the one I pass on the way down to my Mom's, and it makes me crack up every time I see it.

Hope you enjoy it. Happy Friday!

Because freedom of speech isn't free

2009-02-23T16:44:00.001-06:00

I have had to put a lock on my blog.
Now, only if I invite you, can you read it.
I know it is an incovenience to log in, I can't help it.
Freedom of speech isn't free when it is used against you.
Hope you all understand.

Happy Birthday to...............

2009-02-23T06:00:00.000-06:00

my cousin Melissa! This picture is of her with her son Jacx and my brother Mark.

Hope you enjoy your day!!

Happy Birthday to...............

2009-02-22T06:00:00.002-06:00

The father of our country, George Washington!

Happy President's Day

2009-02-16T06:00:00.000-06:00

Happy Valentine's Day

2009-02-14T06:00:00.000-06:00

Happy Birthday to...............

2009-02-13T06:00:00.003-06:00

my stepmom Sandee! This picture is of her with my brother Mark and cousin Jacx.

Hope you enjoy your day!!

Happy Birthday to...............

2009-02-12T06:00:00.000-06:00

Honest Abe!

Tuesday Funnies 2/10/09

2009-02-10T09:00:00.000-06:00

Well, I haven't posted a Tuesday Funny in awhile, but I have a good one this week.

I was talking to Laurie on the phone the other day and she was telling me stories about Kersten and Jess. Laurie and Fred have decided that as long as Jess isn't potty trained, they'll keep trying for one more baby. Well, Kersten, more than anything in the world, really wants a baby sister. The other day Jess was in the bathroom while she was going potty and copying his sissy. He is an imitator by nature at this age and pottying is no different. Kersten was telling mommy she didn't want Jess to be potty trained because if he was, she wouldn't get her baby sister. Mommy told her that she was the one that showed him how to potty. Kersten, 3.5 years old, respond with, "Well, that won't happen again!".

Can you believe her? Love the kid!

Not Me Monday 02/09/09

2009-02-09T12:02:00.000-06:00

Well, it is "Not Me" Monday once again. Last week I didn't think I had much to post and ended up with a decent post. This week, not so much. MckMama posted of course and there are over 400 links to others who have posted, so go check out their posts for your weekly dose of therapy.

I did not go to three movies at the theater in less than seven days.

I did not go out to eat at least once a day every day for the past week.

I did not lift more than ten pounds on more than one occasion, going against doctor's orders. I feel like my "normal" self!

See, told you it wasn't very exciting. Again, check out MckMama's blog for the best free therapy around. Have a good week!

Update on Aunt Lynn

2009-02-06T12:44:00.001-06:00

Aunt Lynn is well! She had biopsies done to test for cancer and they came back negative.
Thank you Lord Jesus for healing power!

Prayer Needed ~ Aunt Lynn

2009-02-03T10:07:00.001-06:00

My Aunt Lynn had some testing done yesterday. She has some nodules in her breast area they are worried about. They took some biopsies and we should know results in a couple of days.

Please keep her and the family in prayer while we wait.

Not Me Monday 2/2/09

2009-02-02T00:03:00.003-06:00

This week I don't have a whole lot to "Not Me", but I didn't want to miss a post. MckMama should be back from vacation this week, so check her blog after you read mine! Free therapy, what more could you ask for?

So, I did not squeal with delight while walking to my next plane in Cincinnati when I saw an Outback Steakhouse. I did not proceed to walk inside and get a table. Nor did I proceed to order a bowl of my favorite potato soup(Walkabout Soup). And I also didn't sit there for an hour and a half killing time. Nope, not me!

I did not nearly cry over how gorgeous my new cousin is. He has the most perfect shaped head despite being stuck in mom's pelvis, and he is absolute perfection. I hope to post a picture of him later this week.

I did not jump for joy that my blog friend Wendi finally had her baby Elijah this week. He was much anticipated and yet another gorgeous baby I get to drool over, except I have to do it over the internet instead of in person.

I did not root for the Arizona Cardinals in the Superbowl in the hope that the underdog would win. I didn't even watch the game. I mean, it is about the commercials, right?

Well, hope you all have a good week. Head on over to MckMama's blog for over 400 other participating "Not Me" postings to get your dose of free therapy.

Baby #3 has arrived!!

2009-01-31T13:11:00.001-06:00

I am proud to announce the arrival of my blog friend Wendi and her husband JB's baby boy.

Elijah Luke Kitsteiner made his way into the world this morning via C-section. He was 8 pounds and 14 ounces, 21 inches long.

He is welcomed by big brother Isaac.

Congrats Kit family on your new edition!!

Good News Times Two!

2009-01-28T20:17:00.002-06:00

Got two pieces of good news to share with you.

1) Grama Connie finally got her results on her MRI she had taken in December. Marked improvement. That is what the doctor said. The tumors are shrinking. Thank you Lord Jesus for this slow, but measurable improvement! Hopefully in July at the next MRI, all will be gone.

2) Baby Wyatt is home and doing well. He has an appointment tomorrow for follow up, but he is eating and pooping like a champ. Still don't know what the infection was, I suspect tomorrow they'll have anwsers. So, thank you Lord Jesus for healing power!

I appreciate all the prayers you have given for these and other situations. Answers to prayer do happen, sometimes not what we like, but we do get answers. Thank you Lord Jesus for good news in these situations.

Not Me Monday 1/26/09

2009-01-26T07:29:00.004-06:00

Well, its time for another "Not Me Monday" posting and I thought I better get a posting made for you all to enjoy! MckMama is on vacation this week, but still posting, so check her blog after you read mine and all the rest of us crazy people!

I did not have a smile that lit up the whole of Mayo when I walked away from my hospital room with a waiver for six weeks off of work. I didn't!

I did not order twice from the kitchen in one meal while in the hospital. Nope, my appetite sucked!!

I did not talk my doctor into an extra night in the hospital when he suggested I go home the same day as surgery. Nope, I wanted out of there!

I did not get picked up by my grandparents and promptly fall asleep on the three hour car ride to their house. What could possibly make me that tired!?

The doctors put me on a 10 pound weight restriction for pushing, pulling or lifting and I certainly haven't been ignoring that! Nope, not me!

One week after surgery, I did not drive two 5-hour trip days to be with my family. Nope, I was resting comfortably at home!

I also did not load my car for said trip by taking things out in pieces to stick to my weight limit. Nope, it didn't take me an hour to load the car! And it certainly didn't take me three hours to pack!

I did not jump with joy that two of three babies I am expecting to make an appearance on the planet decided to do just that! Baby Elijah, you are next!!

I did not convince my mom I needed a turkey dinner just weeks after the holidays and suceed in getting one. Nope, not me. I didn't gain a pound either!

I have not spent a small fortune on vitamins and minerals since having gastric bypass and now gallbladder removal surgeries. Nope, I am healthy all by myself!

Well, I think this is enough for you to chew on for this week!

Head on over to MckMama's blog for over 400 other participating "Not Me" postings. Free therapy indeed!

Happy "Not Me" Monday!

Baby Jacob!

2009-01-25T22:25:00.005-06:00

Baby #2 has made his appearance!

Jacob Michael Robbins was born January 22nd weighing in at 6 pounds and 15 ounces. He was born at 35 weeks and 4 days, but is absolutely healthy aside from some slight jaundice, which is normal for preemies.

I am showing a picture, but be advised, delivery was rough, he was stuck under Mom's pelvis and he has alot of bruising.

Thanking the Lord for safe delivery and the fact that he got to go home like a normal baby. Jacob is a miracle!! Kudos to the doctors who also helped make him possible!

Prayer Needed

2009-01-24T18:28:00.003-06:00

Couple of prayer requests....

Baby Wyatt ~ Yes, the one that was born today. Apparently, he is septic. They helicoptered him down to Sacramento to a Level 1 hospital. I am not sure what all that entails as I don't have significant details. My guess is that they did the C-section because he was dropping his vitals because he pooped inside and I assume he swallowed some of the meconium. I hope to keep you posted to the positive on this soon.

My friend Jared's dad ~ diagnosed this week with pancreatic cancer that has spread to the liver. Typically this is a lethal diagnosis. Pray for Jared's whole family in dealing with this situation.

My Dad's friend Terry ~ had a heart attack this week. He is a big guy and the hospital is saying they can do nothing for him because of it. His option is to eat better and exercise to take off the weight, then, they could maybe do some stenting, but the risk of surgery right now is too great.

Thanks for your faithfulness.

Baby Wyatt

2009-01-24T14:58:00.003-06:00

Well, one baby has made his appearance.

Wyatt Angus Smith was born this morning via C-section weighing in at 7 pounds and 13 ounces, 21 inches long. He is my cousin Melannie and her husband Angus' first born child. He now is a birthday buddy with my brother Mark as well.

I can't wait to see a picture and on Wednesday, I can see him live and in person.

I love babies!!

No news really on Wendi and Michelle. Wendi is back home, false alarm, so still waiting, no news on Michelle at all.

Happy BIRTHday Wyatt!!

Happy Birthday to............

2009-01-24T09:00:00.001-06:00

my brother Mark!

He's the ugly one! Just kidding! The one in the tux obviously!

He hits the big 3-0 today. Can't believe it little big brother!

Here is to many more happy years!

Babies!!

2009-01-22T12:47:00.003-06:00

In the next few hours, perhaps days, I hope not, three babies will be added to the planet that I know!

Wendi ~ is contracting, dilated to 2, but no new news.
Michelle ~ dilated to 4 and contracting regularly.
Melannie ~ plug fell out.........no new news on regular contracting.

I am so excited for all three, all of which are having boys!

I'll keep you posted!!

Seven More Things

2009-01-22T09:00:00.000-06:00

So I thought it was time to do another posting of random things about me you may or may not know.

1. I have now had two surgeries in my lifetime. The first was October 27, 2007, and a day I consider a fresh start on life. It was my gastric bypass surgery. The second was January 12, 2009. I had to have emergency surgery to have my gall bladder removed. What a way to start the year, eh?

2. I broke my first bone in December of 2008. My pinky toe. Who knew such a little bone could cause so much pain?!

3. I was adventurous and tried a piece of venison steak in 2008 while at my parents. Those of you who know me know how much I detest wild game and those of you who try to sneak it past me. But this time, I knowingly took a bite and admitted that this particular steak, did not taste gamey. Not sure I'll try that again. Beef is still my favorite form of steak. No mooing though!

4. I was crazy this holiday season and went way overboard in my love of all things snowmen and purchased well over a dozen different ones to add to my collection. The collection in which I have nowhere to display mind you.

5. My favorite color is green. I like most shades, my favorite being hunter. I do not however, like neon and lime. I also like various shades of purple. Oh and I like cranberry and navy to go with the hunter.

6. It has been 15 months since my kitchen was remodeled and I still haven't finished painting, put up the trim and wainscotting or put up the backsplash. Time to get my behindster in gear me thinks!

7. My favorite restaurant is Outback! Yum-O as Rachael Ray would say! Potato soup, wowzers! Steak, mmmmm! Ok, have to go there now!

Hope you enjoyed this session of random facts; I'll post again some day. Feel free to comment, ask questions, etc.

Happy Birthday to............

2009-01-19T09:00:00.001-06:00

my Aunt Lynn!

She's the cute one!

I don't know how old she is, but if I did and revealed it, she'd probably shoot me!

Love you my favorite aunt!! Have a wonderful birthday!

Not Me Monday

2009-01-19T00:00:00.000-06:00

**Going to repost this since I wasn't around last Monday to link to MckMama. Enjoy!!
**********************************************
I did not give in to my snowman fettish and buy even more on clearance this week while shopping in the clearance aisle at Fleet Farm. Nope, I resisted!

Two days later, I did not go to my favorite drug store and spend $75 on $300 worth of clearance items, some of which included snowmen.

I did not go to Walmart this week and spend over $150 in groceries. I mean, I was only gone for five weeks, what could I possibly have needed??

I then did not go back the next day and spend $75 in vitamins and supplements. Nope, Walmart doesn't own me!

I did not unload my car after being gone for five weeks from home and leave everything sitting in the kitchen or living room just as it sat. Nope, I unpacked it all! This is how I roll!

I did not actually put away said luggage the day after returning home after being gone for five weeks. I actually let it sit there and lived out of the suitcase, I mean, why put it away?

I did not spend an entire four hours checking email after returning to work after five weeks of leave. Furthermore, I did not spend the entire week catching up on said opened email. Nope, I had real work to do.

I did not tell my three-year-old niece Kersten that we only read books at bedtime when she asked me to read to her because I wasn't feeling the best, and I was watching the "In the Womb" special on National Geographic. Reading books means bedtime, right?

Well, I think this should get you through another week. Head on over to MckMama's blog for over 400 other participating "Not Me" postings. Free therapy indeed!

National Sanctity of Human Life Day

2009-01-18T17:57:00.005-06:00

The White House proudly proclaims today, January 18th, to be the National Sanctity of Human Life Day.

How cool is that!?

I can't think of a better way to go out of office! Good luck in your future endeavers "W".

Scripture of the Day

2009-01-17T15:44:00.002-06:00

Scripture of the day is now going to be fed LIVE to my site every day. Please look on the sidebar for this daily and I hope it will help you. There are days when the scripture(s) are dead on for the things I am studying or dwelling on, so I know it speaks to me and I hope it'll do the same for you!

Emergency Surgery

2009-01-17T12:25:00.002-06:00

***WARNING: Some content may be too graphic as I discuss sickness and medical stuff.

Well, I posted last Saturday about my disappointment in my doctor to figure me out. Well, let's just say, this Saturday, things are different. No thanks to him however!

After seeing him Friday afternoon(10th) and leaving upset, Friday night I thought I was gonna die. I was cramping and I had both the puking and diarrhea thing activated. I thought I had gotten food poisoning somewhere, but wasn't quite sure what I had ate do it. I tried to recall my last 48 hours of food intake, and nothing seemed to really jive, so I couldn't figure it out. For about three hours I was just miserable and then the last time I puked, I immediately felt better. I went to bed that night feeling fine and woke up Saturday just fine as well.
Laurie and I went to Lolo's in late morning to do some scrapbooking and we then went to Rochester to do a little shopping. While in Rochester, I began to feel like something might be stuck in my stoma area(what is left of my stomach), but it had been awhile since eating, so I was a little confused about it, so I just drank some water, hoping to flush whatever it was out. By evening, we were back at the Peaslee's and I was making homemade pizza for everyone and just didn't feel myself. I did eat and did fine, but that fullness feeling still lingered. I went to bed taking some leftover Tramadol from my broken toe days and slept really well. I woke up and felt normal. During breakfast however, that fullness feeling came back.
We left for church and I did my nursery duties and should have gone up to service, but I didn't feel good, so I just relaxed in a chair and watched the babies play. After church we went home and I decided I was going to skip lunch and take a nap. A nap I took, I woke up around 3:30 and it felt worse. I went to the bathroom and my urine was an amber color. Now, I was beginning to worry about myself.
So I got online and googled my symptoms and there was a few possabilities. One was a urinary tract infection(and there are three different kinds) or the other was my gall bladder. Now, many of you know I had gastric bypass surgery in October of 2007 and having had this surgery meant that eventually, my gall bladder would become a problem. I was worried. I called the Ask Mayo Nurse and she told me to go to the ER. I really dreaded the ER, not because they aren't good doctors and nurses, but because it takes so long and it costs extra.
Well, I decided to go to the ER. I was at the Peaslee's, so it was going to be about a 45 minute drive. I parked in the long term ramp fully expecting to get admitted, but I wasn't sure. I had called both Sara and Susan to tell them about my going to the ER and Sara responded immediately by meeting me there and staying for the duration.
They check me in and a few minutes later I am sent to a room. Not too much time passes before a nurse comes in, and a doctor follows after that. I needed to give a blood sample and a urine sample and they wanted to start an IV of fluids. I gave them my good pumper vein for the IV, so it was up to the rest of my veins to stand the test. Urine, not so much. I had gone prior to coming into the ER and with the amount that I eat or drink, there is no on demand system in place. The IV got things moving eventually and I did get that done. The doctor felt my abdomen looking for the obvious to him I suppose, they wanted to tule out appendix in addition to my two theories and the best way to do that was a CT scan. So I had to drink two glasses of contrast in the next 1.5 hours and while the taste has improved over the years, it is still not my favorite beverage. By the time my CT appointment time rolled around, I had drank one and one-third glasses, which for me is good since I don't have the ability to drink as fast as I used to and with the IV, well, I was very full of fluid. So they roll me off to CT and if you have never had one, not only do you drink contrast, but they inject it too. The injection kind makes you have a warm rush from your head to your toes and I swear, it makes you feel like you are peeing your pants!
I go back to my room after the CT and the doctor is not far behind. He says that my pancreas and liver enzymes are very elevated, to the point they figure my pancreas is the problem, but the CT results didn't show anything wrong with my pancreas, liver or appendix. It was my gall bladder, and it was very distended. He ordered a surgical consult and an ultrasound to see if I still had stones floating around or blocking anything. The surgeon turns out to be someone who has been assissting Sara with her whole leg trauma the past few months, so she is super excited to "know" he will be my surgeon and that I'll be in good hands.
So after a bunch of phone calls, they wheel me off to ultrasound and yep, I have stones, they need to do surgery immediately. And, as it turns out, on Friday when I thought I had food poisoning, it was me passing a stone! Nice!
So a few more phone calls and off to surgery. I remember being wheeled in and them doing a bunch of prep work. I was calm and relaxed. I did cry before leaving for surgery, not because I was scared, but because sometimes, you just need your mommy and this was a time I wished she didn't live so far away.
The next thing I remember is waking up and being wheeled to my room. Sara was still hanging around, such a trouper she is! She stayed with me the rest of the night and went into work a bit late so she could be there when the surgeon did rounds and told us all the details of how things went. No complications, but my gall bladder was much larger than it should have been and they had to make a bigger incision to remove it, but aside from that, all went as planned.
I have four new scars for a total of ten on my abdomen. One is in my belly button, not sure if you'll be able to see that after it heals, it is still swollen at the moment, so can't really tell what you'll see. The big scar is in a fat crease that exists currently, so it should be hidden mostly and hopefully someday when I get to have plastic surgery, it and the others can mostly go away. I didn't have to have a drainage tube this time, so all the scars are relatively flat aside from the fact that they are healing right now, so I expect them to be minimal. The big scar is where my pain is. They cut through my chest muscle there and thus I have bruising and I can't use it very well.
I have six weeks to recover, I got an extension due to the fibromyalgia making it take me longer to heal. I just don't pop back like regular people.
I spent this first week at my grandparents, the Gardner side. They live about three hours from me and graciously came and picked me up and will return me home on Monday. I plan to spend one day with the Peaslee's and then am heading to my Mom's house, but in two segments instead of the whole trip. I'll have a stopover at my Uncle Bryan's or Aunt Karen's house and continue the following day. My Grama Booth is jealous of my time and thus, I will also spend two weeks out in California. She said its her turn to take care of me.

So that is my saga for the week..........I'll keep you posted on my recovery. Everyone has computers, but some are slower than others, so I can't promise to be faithful daily, but I'd like to get back to my previous level and have my "Not Me Monday", "Tuesday Funnies" and "Favorite Foto Friday" come back. I will do my best to keep you entertained.

Scripture of the Day

2009-01-17T08:00:00.000-06:00

A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.
John 13:34-35

Scripture of the Day

2009-01-16T08:00:00.000-06:00

But after thy hardness and impenitent heart treasurest up unto thyself wrath against the day of wrath and revelation of the righteous judgment of God; Who will render to every man according to his deeds.
Romans 2:5-6

Scripture of the Day

2009-01-15T08:00:00.000-06:00

Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God.
1 John 4:7

Scripture of the Day

2009-01-14T08:00:00.000-06:00

Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ: By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God.
Romans 5:1-2

Scripture of the Day

2009-01-13T08:00:00.000-06:00

If ye do good to them which do good to you, what thank have ye? for sinners also do even the same.
Luke 6:33

Scripture of the Day

2009-01-12T08:00:00.000-06:00

With all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love; Endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.
Ephesians 4:2-3

Not Me Monday! 1/12/09

2009-01-12T00:02:00.006-06:00

I did not give in to my snowman fettish and buy even more on clearance this week while shopping in the clearance aisle at Fleet Farm. Nope, I resisted!

Two days later, I did not go to my favorite drug store and spend $75 on $300 worth of clearance items, some of which included snowmen.

I did not go to Walmart this week and spend over $150 in groceries. I mean, I was only gone for five weeks, what could I possibly have needed??

I then did not go back the next day and spend $75 in vitamins and supplements. Nope, Walmart doesn't own me!

I did not unload my car after being gone for five weeks from home and leave everything sitting in the kitchen or living room just as it sat. Nope, I unpacked it all! This is how I roll!

I did not actually put away said luggage the day after returning home after being gone for five weeks. I actually let it sit there and lived out of the suitcase, I mean, why put it away?

I did not spend an entire four hours checking email after returning to work after five weeks of leave. Furthermore, I did not spend the entire week catching up on said opened email. Nope, I had real work to do.

I did not tell my three-year-old niece Kersten that we only read books at bedtime when she asked me to read to her because I wasn't feeling the best, and I was watching the "In the Womb" special on National Geographic. Reading books means bedtime, right?

Well, I think this should get you through another week.
Head on over to MckMama's blog for over 400 other participating "Not Me" postings. Free therapy indeed!

Scripture of the Day

2009-01-11T08:00:00.000-06:00

1 Peter 1:15-16 (King James Version)
15But as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation;
16Because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy.

Scripture of the Day

2009-01-10T08:00:00.000-06:00

Ephesians 5:1-2
1Be ye therefore followers of God, as dear children;
2And walk in love, as Christ also hath loved us, and hath given himself for us an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweetsmelling savour.

Surgical Consult Update

2009-01-10T07:41:00.002-06:00

So my doctor is a complete idiot. Why do people spend money on degrees?
I walk in there and he thinks my pain is not scar tissue. He thinks I am irregular in my bowel habits and that if I went daily, the pain would go away.
UHHHHHH, news flash. I wasn't regular prior to surgery, and now that I eat less food, do you really think I will be now??
That was the best he could come up with. I cried.

I have been living with this pain for nearly 15 months now. I have done an MRI, a CT scan and an ultrasound. If I were obstructed, don't you think one of them would have showed something?
So what good is the degree?
I mean, yeah, who WANTS to have surgery, but seriously, we have exhausted all the options and now he comes up with this crap? Excuse the pun.

So, I am going to give it two weeks. Two weeks is my limit. If it isn't better, am going for a second opinion. I really think it won't change anything. However, this is the hoop I have to jump through for now.

Scripture of the Day

2009-01-09T08:00:00.000-06:00

But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves.
James 1:22

Scripture of the Day

2009-01-08T08:00:00.000-06:00

My son, despise not the chastening of the LORD; neither be weary of his correction: For whom the LORD loveth he correcteth; even as a father the son in whom he delighteth.
Proverbs 3:11-12

Happy Birthday to..........

2009-01-07T17:00:00.002-06:00

My Dad Mike! Today he is 49!

Hope you have a Blessed Birthday!

Surgery?

2009-01-07T13:16:00.001-06:00

Has anyone ever had a laparotomy or laparoscopy?

I will be having one or the other, won't know until my consult on Friday.

I am just curious about what to expect and recovery time, etc.

Post a comment if you have an experience you can relate to me.

THANKS!

Scripture of the Day

2009-01-07T08:00:00.000-06:00

Hast thou not known? hast thou not heard, that the everlasting God, the LORD, the Creator of the ends of the earth, fainteth not, neither is weary? there is no searching of his understanding.
Isaiah 40:28

Scripture of the Day

2009-01-06T08:00:00.000-06:00

Titus 2:14 (King James Version)
14Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works.

Scripture of the Day

2009-01-05T08:00:00.000-06:00

Proverbs 2:1-5 (King James Version)
1My son, if thou wilt receive my words, and hide my commandments with thee;
2So that thou incline thine ear unto wisdom, and apply thine heart to understanding;
3Yea, if thou criest after knowledge, and liftest up thy voice for understanding;
4If thou seekest her as silver, and searchest for her as for hid treasures;
5Then shalt thou understand the fear of the LORD, and find the knowledge of God.

Not Me Monday

2009-01-05T00:02:00.002-06:00

I did not drive 45 miles through completely ice covered roads and continuing downpour of freezing rain last night. I was not that far from home, I wanted to be home. I then did not give up and get a hotel room. I just didn't.

I did not go to White Castle four times in the past month to get my craving satisfied. I can't get these close to home, but I didn't give in to the craving. Nope! Not me!

I did not buy more than a dozen snowmen in several shapes and sizes this holiday season. I do not like them at all you see. I couldn't possibly house any more! Definitely not me! *PS, I got them all on sale though!*

I did not go to Walmart nearly every day of the past two weeks. Nope, no way!

I am not disappointed that my favorite pretzels are no longer available at Longs, the only place that still sold them. I did not nearly yell at the cashier about this either. I mean, how could she do this to me?

I did not eat a pound of banana runt candies over the course of three days. Nope, not me!

I did not drink McDonald's sweet tea every single day for a week. You know you can't get this in my neck of the woods, so I have to travel for it. But I did not do it. Nope!

I think this is enough for this week, I should have more for you next week.

Head over to MckMama's blog for more "Not Me Monday" posts, they are a blast!!

Back in Minnesota

2009-01-04T11:36:00.002-06:00

Well, after an exhausting trip, details of which I'll write about later, I am finally back in Minnesota and HOME.
I have doctor appointments tomorrow and return to work on Tuesday if all goes as planned.
I'll also return to blogging. So stay tuned, I have several stories to relate, but I'll probably only post one a day so as not to overwhelm all of you and to space things out a little bit as I never know if I will have something one day or ten things.
I am hoping to get in a "Not Me Monday" post tomorrow as well.

Missed everyone!

Scripture of the Day

2009-01-04T08:00:00.000-06:00

Micah 6:8 (King James Version)
8He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the LORD require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God?

Scripture of the Day

2009-01-03T08:00:00.000-06:00

James 2:8 (King James Version)
8If ye fulfil the royal law according to the scripture, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself, ye do well:

Scripture of the Day

2009-01-02T08:00:00.000-06:00

Philippians 4:9 (King James Version)
9Those things, which ye have both learned, and received, and heard, and seen in me, do: and the God of peace shall be with you.

Scripture of the Day

2009-01-01T08:00:00.000-06:00

Matthew 6:33 (King James Version)
33But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.

Scripture of the Day

2008-12-31T08:00:00.000-06:00

Proverbs 16:32 (King James Version)
32He that is slow to anger is better than the mighty; and he that ruleth his spirit than he that taketh a city.

Scripture of the Day

2008-12-30T08:00:00.000-06:00

John 14:6 (King James Version)
6Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.

Scripture of the Day

2008-12-29T08:00:00.000-06:00

Isaiah 45:5-6 (King James Version)
5I am the LORD, and there is none else, there is no God beside me: I girded thee, though thou hast not known me:
6That they may know from the rising of the sun, and from the west, that there is none beside me. I am the LORD, and there is none else.

Scripture of the Day

2008-12-28T08:00:00.000-06:00

Malachi 3:10 (King James Version)
10Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in mine house, and prove me now herewith, saith the LORD of hosts, if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it.

Scripture of the Day

2008-12-27T08:00:00.000-06:00

Psalm 118:4-6 (King James Version)
4Let them now that fear the LORD say, that his mercy endureth for ever.
5I called upon the LORD in distress: the LORD answered me, and set me in a large place.
6The LORD is on my side; I will not fear: what can man do unto me?

Scripture of the Day

2008-12-26T08:00:00.000-06:00

1 Corinthians 12:7-27
7But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal.
8For to one is given by the Spirit the word of wisdom; to another the word of knowledge by the same Spirit;
9To another faith by the same Spirit; to another the gifts of healing by the same Spirit;
10To another the working of miracles; to another prophecy; to another discerning of spirits; to another divers kinds of tongues; to another the interpretation of tongues:
11But all these worketh that one and the selfsame Spirit, dividing to every man severally as he will.
12For as the body is one, and hath many members, and all the members of that one body, being many, are one body: so also is Christ.
13For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit.
14For the body is not one member, but many.
15If the foot shall say, Because I am not the hand, I am not of the body; is it therefore not of the body?
16And if the ear shall say, Because I am not the eye, I am not of the body; is it therefore not of the body?
17If the whole body were an eye, where were the hearing? If the whole were hearing, where were the smelling?
18But now hath God set the members every one of them in the body, as it hath pleased him.
19And if they were all one member, where were the body?
20But now are they many members, yet but one body.
21And the eye cannot say unto the hand, I have no need of thee: nor again the head to the feet, I have no need of you.
22Nay, much more those members of the body, which seem to be more feeble, are necessary: 23And those members of the body, which we think to be less honourable, upon these we bestow more abundant honour; and our uncomely parts have more abundant comeliness.
24For our comely parts have no need: but God hath tempered the body together, having given more abundant honour to that part which lacked.
25That there should be no schism in the body; but that the members should have the same care one for another.
26And whether one member suffer, all the members suffer with it; or one member be honoured, all the members rejoice with it.
27Now ye are the body of Christ, and members in particular.

Scripture of the Day

2008-12-25T08:00:00.000-06:00

Luke 2 (King James Version)
1And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be taxed.
2(And this taxing was first made when Cyrenius was governor of Syria.)
3And all went to be taxed, every one into his own city.
4And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judaea, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem; (because he was of the house and lineage of David:)
5To be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child.
6And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered.
7And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn.
8And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night.
9And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid.
10And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.
11For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.
12And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.
13And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying,
14Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.
15And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds said one to another, Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us.
16And they came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger.
17And when they had seen it, they made known abroad the saying which was told them concerning this child.
18And all they that heard it wondered at those things which were told them by the shepherds.
19But Mary kept all these things, and pondered them in her heart.
20And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told unto them.
21And when eight days were accomplished for the circumcising of the child, his name was called JESUS, which was so named of the angel before he was conceived in the womb.

Scripture of the Day

2008-12-24T08:00:00.000-06:00

Luke 1 (King James Version)
Luke 1:5-80
5THERE was in the days of Herod, the king of Judaea, a certain priest named Zacharias, of the course of Abia: and his wife was of the daughters of Aaron, and her name was Elisabeth.
6And they were both righteous before God, walking in all the commandments and ordinances of the Lord blameless.
7And they had no child, because that Elisabeth was barren, and they both were now well stricken in years.
8And it came to pass, that while he executed the priest's office before God in the order of his course,
9According to the custom of the priest's office, his lot was to burn incense when he went into the temple of the Lord.
10And the whole multitude of the people were praying without at the time of incense.
11And there appeared unto him an angel of the Lord standing on the right side of the altar of incense.
12And when Zacharias saw him, he was troubled, and fear fell upon him.
13But the angel said unto him, Fear not, Zacharias: for thy prayer is heard; and thy wife Elisabeth shall bear thee a son, and thou shalt call his name John.
14And thou shalt have joy and gladness; and many shall rejoice at his birth.
15For he shall be great in the sight of the Lord, and shall drink neither wine nor strong drink; and he shall be filled with the Holy Ghost, even from his mother's womb.
16And many of the children of Israel shall he turn to the Lord their God.
17And he shall go before him in the spirit and power of Elias, to turn the hearts of the fathers to the children, and the disobedient to the wisdom of the just; to make ready a people prepared for the Lord.
18And Zacharias said unto the angel, Whereby shall I know this? for I am an old man, and my wife well stricken in years.
19And the angel answering said unto him, I am Gabriel, that stand in the presence of God; and am sent to speak unto thee, and to shew thee these glad tidings.
20And, behold, thou shalt be dumb, and not able to speak, until the day that these things shall be performed, because thou believest not my words, which shall be fulfilled in their season.
21And the people waited for Zacharias, and marvelled that he tarried so long in the temple.
22And when he came out, he could not speak unto them: and they perceived that he had seen a vision in the temple: for he beckoned unto them, and remained speechless.
23And it came to pass, that, as soon as the days of his ministration were accomplished, he departed to his own house.
24And after those days his wife Elisabeth conceived, and hid herself five months, saying,
25Thus hath the Lord dealt with me in the days wherein he looked on me, to take away my reproach among men.
26And in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God unto a city of Galilee, named Nazareth,
27To a virgin espoused to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David; and the virgin's name was Mary.
28And the angel came in unto her, and said, Hail, thou that art highly favoured, the Lord is with thee: blessed art thou among women.
29And when she saw him, she was troubled at his saying, and cast in her mind what manner of salutation this should be.
30And the angel said unto her, Fear not, Mary: for thou hast found favour with God.
31And, behold, thou shalt conceive in thy womb, and bring forth a son, and shalt call his name JESUS.
32He shall be great, and shall be called the Son of the Highest: and the Lord God shall give unto him the throne of his father David:
33And he shall reign over the house of Jacob for ever; and of his kingdom there shall be no end.
34Then said Mary unto the angel, How shall this be, seeing I know not a man?
35And the angel answered and said unto her, The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee: therefore also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God.
36And, behold, thy cousin Elisabeth, she hath also conceived a son in her old age: and this is the sixth month with her, who was called barren.
37For with God nothing shall be impossible.
38And Mary said, Behold the handmaid of the Lord; be it unto me according to thy word. And the angel departed from her.
39And Mary arose in those days, and went into the hill country with haste, into a city of Juda;
40And entered into the house of Zacharias, and saluted Elisabeth.
41And it came to pass, that, when Elisabeth heard the salutation of Mary, the babe leaped in her womb; and Elisabeth was filled with the Holy Ghost:
42And she spake out with a loud voice, and said, Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb.
43And whence is this to me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me?
44For, lo, as soon as the voice of thy salutation sounded in mine ears, the babe leaped in my womb for joy.
45And blessed is she that believed: for there shall be a performance of those things which were told her from the Lord.
46And Mary said, My soul doth magnify the Lord,
47And my spirit hath rejoiced in God my Saviour.
48For he hath regarded the low estate of his handmaiden: for, behold, from henceforth all generations shall call me blessed.
49For he that is mighty hath done to me great things; and holy is his name.
50And his mercy is on them that fear him from generation to generation.
51He hath shewed strength with his arm; he hath scattered the proud in the imagination of their hearts.
52He hath put down the mighty from their seats, and exalted them of low degree.
53He hath filled the hungry with good things; and the rich he hath sent empty away.
54He hath helped his servant Israel, in remembrance of his mercy;
55As he spake to our fathers, to Abraham, and to his seed for ever.
56And Mary abode with her about three months, and returned to her own house.
57Now Elisabeth's full time came that she should be delivered; and she brought forth a son.
58And her neighbours and her cousins heard how the Lord had shewed great mercy upon her; and they rejoiced with her.
59And it came to pass, that on the eighth day they came to circumcise the child; and they called him Zacharias, after the name of his father.
60And his mother answered and said, Not so; but he shall be called John.
61And they said unto her, There is none of thy kindred that is called by this name.
62And they made signs to his father, how he would have him called.
63And he asked for a writing table, and wrote, saying, His name is John. And they marvelled all.
64And his mouth was opened immediately, and his tongue loosed, and he spake, and praised God.
65And fear came on all that dwelt round about them: and all these sayings were noised abroad throughout all the hill country of Judaea.
66And all they that heard them laid them up in their hearts, saying, What manner of child shall this be! And the hand of the Lord was with him.
67And his father Zacharias was filled with the Holy Ghost, and prophesied, saying,
68Blessed be the Lord God of Israel; for he hath visited and redeemed his people,
69And hath raised up an horn of salvation for us in the house of his servant David;
70As he spake by the mouth of his holy prophets, which have been since the world began:
71That we should be saved from our enemies, and from the hand of all that hate us;
72To perform the mercy promised to our fathers, and to remember his holy covenant;
73The oath which he sware to our father Abraham,
74That he would grant unto us, that we being delivered out of the hand of our enemies might serve him without fear,
75In holiness and righteousness before him, all the days of our life.
76And thou, child, shalt be called the prophet of the Highest: for thou shalt go before the face of the Lord to prepare his ways;
77To give knowledge of salvation unto his people by the remission of their sins,
78Through the tender mercy of our God; whereby the dayspring from on high hath visited us,
79To give light to them that sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace.
80And the child grew, and waxed strong in spirit, and was in the deserts till the day of his shewing unto Israel.

Scripture of the Day

2008-12-23T08:00:00.000-06:00

John 8:36 (King James Version)
36If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed.

Scripture of the Day

2008-12-22T08:00:00.000-06:00

This is Kersten's favorite verse to quote, especially when one of the big kids has been naughty, so this post is for her! Love you princess!

John 8:32 (King James Version)
32And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.

Scripture of the Day

2008-12-21T08:00:00.000-06:00

Joshua 22:5 (King James Version)
5But take diligent heed to do the commandment and the law, which Moses the servant of the LORD charged you, to love the LORD your God, and to walk in all his ways, and to keep his commandments, and to cleave unto him, and to serve him with all your heart and with all your soul.

Scripture of the Day

2008-12-20T08:00:00.000-06:00

Proverbs 16:32 (King James Version)
32He that is slow to anger is better than the mighty; and he that ruleth his spirit than he that taketh a city.

Scripture of the Day

2008-12-19T08:00:00.000-06:00

Proverbs 16:25 (King James Version)
25There is a way that seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death.

Scripture of the Day

2008-12-18T08:00:00.000-06:00

Proverbs 21:3 (King James Version)
3To do justice and judgment is more acceptable to the LORD than sacrifice.

Airline Horror Story 12/10/08

2008-12-17T20:11:00.001-06:00

The Day………

........started out early, I hadn’t slept the best because I didn’t take a sleeping pill the night before, so I was up early. My dad leaves for work around 5:30 in the morning, and I heard him puttering around in the kitchen, and never really fell back asleep. I got up officially just before 7 and joined my mom for breakfast. After she left for work, I finished packing my bags, I got dressed and ready to go. I cleaned out my purse even.

I left the house around 9, I was driving to my Uncle Clark & Aunt Judy’s house so I could park my car there for the week and they chauffeured me to the airport. Got there around 1 and my flight was scheduled to leave at 3:05.

Well, the earlier flight for that day was still there when I got to the gate, as were two flights to Cleveland. All were having issues with weather, but in other locations and thus the planes weren’t coming to Indianapolis on time. I should have taken that as a sign I guess, but I was pretty confident that with two hours to kill, my plan would be ok. Plus, the counter people assured me, it would be on time.

Little did I know……….

I boarded my plan approximately 30 minutes late due to the three other above mentioned flights using our gate and coming in/out first. Figured 30 minutes was no big deal, right?

We take off and are in the air on our way to Houston, which is my scheduled layover before coming to Sacramento. Just before our arrival in Houston, the captain comes on the overhead speaker system and announces due to weather in Houston, they are placing planes in a holding pattern until it clears a little. Holding pattern means you make big circles in the sky……..along with a bunch of other airplanes. At one point, I counted seven of us circling, and that was just what I could see from my window, I am sure there were more.

So we circle, for about twenty minutes. The captain again comes on the overhead speaker system and announces that he is trying to contact flight control, we need to land now or we have to divert to go get more fuel. Groan!

So we began flying south and eventually landed at Ellington AFB. Now being that this isn’t a normal commercial airport, what do you suppose the fuel charge was there? DORKS! Don’t you think you could plan for this sort of thing?

Thirty minutes later, we are back in the air towards Houston and this time, they promptly allow us to land. Now originally, I had a little less than two hours layover time, by the time we taxied into our gate, I was down to 28 minutes and I had gate checked a bag, so I had to wait for it before I could be off. Mine was fifth off the car, thankfully, so I walked as fast as I could up the ramp and asked the agent what gate my next flight was at. “E23” he says. I was like, okay. Until I went to the main walkway of the airport, which had no walking escalators by the way, and realized I was at B66 and E23 was a long way off! Now I broke my toe two weeks ago and for the most part, it doesn’t bother me except when you try to run. When you run, you use your toes. That wasn’t working so well, so I was doing a half walk, half (barely) jog to try to get to E23 when I realize the terminals aren’t connected and I need to take a Tram over to the main airport. Sigh! Could this day get worse?

So I got on the tram and it is semi-fast, so I was figuring I’d be okay. We went to C terminal, stopped. We were then on our way again to stop at D & E terminals. Yeah, that wasn’t so bad! Only, it’s the entrance to the airport, so it’s just the beginning of these terminals. “Oh Dear Lord, I need to make my plane!” I say.

So, I begin walking as fast as I can across the airport, headed for terminal E. Finally a walking escalator comes into view. I hop on, twice and end up at E12. I was thinking, “Oh my goodness, I still have a long ways to go!” As I rounded the corner, gate E24 comes into view. “YES!” The gates now go backwards and I am only two away. “Thank you Lord Jesus!”

The gals waiting at the check in kiosk see me coming and smile as I come huffing up to the podium. “Just in time,” they say. I told them, “I came from B terminal and could it have been any farther away?”

So I board the plane, thankfully my seat is the first row after first class, so I didn’t have to wiggle through the whole plane. I sit down next to a couple and they notice my breathing. They greet me and congratulate me for making it. I grab a few things from my bag and get settled in. I offer them a peanut butter kiss, which I promptly learn, does not have the same name in every country. In Australia, they are called cyclops cookies because they look like they have an eye, one eye. Cute huh?

A few minutes later, they close the door to the plane and we back away for the gate. This is the beginning of a five hour wait on the tarmac. You see, it was snowing in Houston. One of few days a year this ever happens. Planes need to be de-iced. It was going to be awhile.

So I am sitting in the row directly behind first class, aisle seat. I am sitting next to a real nice American couple who currently live in Australia. They were very nice. It was a good thing we got along; the next nine hours we spent together were long, but amusing.

So after rolling away from the gate, the captain comes on the overhead and says we are going to just wait a little bit on the tarmac as there is a little backup. Little, yeah right! I swear, they load you up on a plane, trapped like sardines in a tin can, to make you sit on the tarmac. Why of why can we not sit in the airport where we have access to food and bathrooms? Seriously!

So we sit. And we sit some more. And we sit some more. Finally, the captain comes on again and says we are moving to the runway. Hurray! Right? Not so much. He comes on and says that we have to wait to be deiced. I am thinking, okay, this is a good thing, the flakes are huge and building up rapidly, I am sure that affects the way the plane flies. Well, little did I know that Houston barely gets any snow, so they only have once de-icer. ONE! At this point, we didn’t know where we were in the line, just that we were in it and waiting our turn. The flight attendants decide to pass out the headsets at this point and not charge the normal $1 fee. Sweet!

An hour later, the captain comes overhead again and says because of the delay, they are going to let us have beverage service while on the ground. Cool, I was getting thirsty. A few minutes after that, he announces we would do food service too. Okay, I think, it will help pass the time. A few minutes after that, he comes on again and retracts both the food and drink. We think, “Sweet, we are out of here!” Uh, not so much!

So five minutes after that, he comes on yet again and says we are pulling ahead a few hundred yards and then they would begin food and beverage service. Turns out, we are now eighth in line and it is taking twenty minutes per plane to be de-iced. This means we have nearly three hours before it is our turn. Great, just great!

So the meal is a chicken enchilada, only it is not like any enchilada I have ever had. It had rice, chicken, cheese, onions, jalapenos, corn and tomatoes. Weird! I ended up dumping everything out and ate just the tortilla which still had the cheese and rice attached. Not too bad. We also had a lettuce salad and a Twix bite-sized bar for dessert.

So about two and a half hours later, it is our turn. The captain has to turn off the engine and the overhead air so the stuff doesn’t come in the plane. Well, you can still smell it and it smells like burnt antifreeze. Not the best smell in the world.

We finally get to taxi to the runway and take off. We all clap! Yeah, we are in the air. I finally decide to get some rest, it is now 9pm and I have been up since about 5am. I am ready for a nap. I wake up about two and a half hours later. I decide to break out my book and read for awhile. We still had about an hour or so to our destination. The captain comes on the overhead. Are you kidding me? Folks, we have to make a detour to Las Vegas to refuel. After five hours sitting on the tarmac, they apparently thought we still had enough when we left Houston, but nope! Our captain underestimated fuel due to what he said was tough headwinds. Right…………seriously?

So, we have to land in Vegas. I asked our flight attendant if there was any chance that we’d get to go to the casino. Nope, we didn’t even go to a gate. So about forty-five minutes later we are back in the air headed to Sacramento once again.

We land without difficulty and finally, after nine hours of sitting in a sardine can, we deplane. Mark is waiting for me at the bottom of the escalator and I was never so happy to see my brother in my whole life. It was 3am on Thursday, I had been up almost hours. We head toward the baggage carousels and wait for luggage to start appearing.

Luggage comes after about fifteen minutes. I anxiously await my bag. I had barely made the plane in Houston; I was worried my luggage didn’t. Well, I had reason to worry. I watched everyone else’ back go round and round on the carousel. There were no bags left and I and three others were still standing there. Uh oh! We walk over to the check in counter to check with the Continental staff about my bag. All bags are off the plane, no bags in the back. It did not come on an earlier flight, it was likely on the next flight, which wasn’t due until about 5:30am. We opt not to wait at the airport and fill out a claim tag to have my bag delivered to Mark’s apartment once it gets to Sacramento.

We depart the airport and head for Walmart, it is now nearly 4am and I have no clothes. I had to buy pajamas, a pair of underwear and a shirt. I wanted to be safe as I wasn’t sure when my bag would arrive at Mark’s. Well, good thing I played it safe. My bag did not arrive until later in the day and I left Mark’s around 9am as my Grama and I had 10:30am nail appointments. These things are important you know! My bag did arrive, and that was the important thing, Mark brought it to me later.

So, I barely got any sleep, my body clock said “wakey, wakey!” at 7am, which would be 9am Central time, and I had only slept about two hours. I was tired, but couldn’t sleep. Don’t you just hate that?

Well, that is essentially the 24 hour horror story. I left out the details about keeping in touch with my family, but I was texting and making several phone calls along the way. Good thing nights and weekends are free! HA!

Thanks for reading! Feel free to post your airline horror stories!

California extended

2008-12-17T08:37:00.003-06:00

So Tuesday was the day I was packing, doing laundry, getting everything together to go back to the Midwest when my Grama had an idea. She kept wishing I could stay longer and I told her, well, technically, I could stay until Saturday.
She said immediately, "Let's do it."
So off to the computer I went to change my flights and it is a done deal.
I am staying until Saturday, I have to be back in Minnesota for Jessica's graduation party, and I also have an appointment with my doctor on Monday.
So a few more days of California, though its been more like home.
The weather is like Minnesota in December, which is typically occurring in February around here. So I haven't been without the cold and snow, just not AS cold as Rochester, which I am grateful for!
See everyone on Saturday or Sunday!

Scripture of the Day

2008-12-17T08:00:00.000-06:00

Luke 6:30 (King James Version)
30Give to every man that asketh of thee; and of him that taketh away thy goods ask them not again.

Happy Birthday Too..............

2008-12-16T09:00:00.000-06:00

My stepbrother Teddy!

He is the big 32 today, making him seven months older than me dude!
It tottaly catches up on you fast!!

Hope you enjoy your day!

Scripture of the Day

2008-12-16T08:00:00.000-06:00

John 1:12-13 (King James Version)
12But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name:
13Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.

Prayer Needed ~ Grama Whittle

2008-12-16T07:21:00.004-06:00

I got a text from my friend Jessica a couple days ago about her Grama Whittle.
She was taken to the hospital via ambulance with a kidney stone the size of a golf ball.
They did a bunch of tests to check things out as she is close to 80 before doing the surgery and found blood clots in her lungs.
Not sure how they will proceed at the moment, but please keep her in prayer.

This is the same Whittle family that lost Grampa about a year ago, so they are somewhat reliving those days and its a tough time for the family.
Please keep them in your prayers as well.

Thanks for your faithfulness

Prayer Needed ~ knee surgery

2008-12-16T06:40:00.001-06:00

My friend Tamie's dad had surgery on his knee yesterday, replacement. Below is an update from her. Please continue to pray for the healing and rehab process.

Hey everybody the surgery went great! He had a spinal so he remembers hearing the hammer on his knee and that is about it. Oh, he remembers the cute nurse he got to hug when they did the spinal too! LOL! They already started him on a machine that moves his knee slowly. This morning he will be up with therapy actually walking on it with a walker. His feeling is back in his toes which is unfortunate for the nurses on his floor. He has very sensitive feet so we all knew when they were playing with his feet last night that he couldn't feel it yet from the spinal, otherwise somebody would've gotten a kick in the face! LOL! We are past the surgery, but now the therapy fun starts and more pain. They are concerned at this point with swelling, infection and blood clots. So, continued prayer would be wonderful as we are not out of the woods, but at least the surgery part is over. Thanks for the prayers!
Tamie

Scripture of the Day

2008-12-15T08:00:00.000-06:00

I felt like today, the entire chapter of Romans 12 really hit home and wanted to share with the rest of you.

Romans 12:1-18 (King James Version)
1I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.
2And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.
3For I say, through the grace given unto me, to every man that is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think; but to think soberly, according as God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith.
4For as we have many members in one body, and all members have not the same office:
5So we, being many, are one body in Christ, and every one members one of another.
6Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, whether prophecy, let us prophesy according to the proportion of faith;
7Or ministry, let us wait on our ministering: or he that teacheth, on teaching;
8Or he that exhorteth, on exhortation: he that giveth, let him do it with simplicity; he that ruleth, with diligence; he that sheweth mercy, with cheerfulness.
9Let love be without dissimulation. Abhor that which is evil; cleave to that which is good.
10Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love; in honour preferring one another; 11Not slothful in business; fervent in spirit; serving the Lord;
12Rejoicing in hope; patient in tribulation; continuing instant in prayer;
13Distributing to the necessity of saints; given to hospitality.
14Bless them which persecute you: bless, and curse not.
15Rejoice with them that do rejoice, and weep with them that weep.
16Be of the same mind one toward another. Mind not high things, but condescend to men of low estate. Be not wise in your own conceits.
17Recompense to no man evil for evil. Provide things honest in the sight of all men.
18If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men.

Happy Birthday to..........

2008-12-14T08:00:00.000-06:00

My nephew Alex. He is eight years old today!

Can't believe how fast the time flies! Hope you enjoy your day. Love you!

Scripture of the Day

2008-12-13T08:00:00.000-06:00

1 Corinthians 1:27-29 (King James Version)
27But God hath chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise; and God hath chosen the weak things of the world to confound the things which are mighty;
28And base things of the world, and things which are despised, hath God chosen, yea, and things which are not, to bring to nought things that are:
29That no flesh should glory in his presence.

Scripture of the Day

2008-12-12T08:00:00.000-06:00

Jeremiah 29:11 (King James Version)
11For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the LORD, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end.

Finally!

2008-12-11T10:44:00.002-06:00

Well, after a VERY long day, I finally made it to Sacramento at 3AM!

You read that right, 3AM.

I was supposed to get in at 8:30PM.

Kind of a big time difference.

Needless to say, there is a big story, but I don't have time to get into that at the moment. I'll try to get online from my Grama's later, after I get some sleep.

Happy Birthday to..........

2008-12-11T08:30:00.002-06:00

Elmo! Er, I mean, Brian Johnson! He is my sister-in-law Brenda's dad, my Dad's best friend, and family for years before my brother married his sister. I can't remember a time we didn't know the Johnsons! Hope you enjoy your day! And it's okay that you like Elmo at your age!

Happy Birthday to..........

2008-12-11T08:30:00.000-06:00

My niece Maya! She is five today! Wow that went fast! Have a great birthday sweetie, hope to see you at Christmas!

Scripture of the Day

2008-12-11T08:00:00.000-06:00

Proverbs 8:13 (King James Version)
13The fear of the LORD is to hate evil: pride, and arrogancy, and the evil way, and the froward mouth, do I hate.

Scripture of the Day

2008-12-10T08:00:00.000-06:00

Romans 5:19 (King James Version)
19For as by one man's disobedience many were made sinners, so by the obedience of one shall many be made righteous.

Trip to California

2008-12-09T08:00:00.003-06:00

Well, my Grama Connie heard I had time off of work and offered to buy me a ticket to California.
Who am I to say no??

I only got to see my California family three days this year, so an extra six days with them will be much appreciated.

I leave Wednesday the 10th and return Wednesday the 17th.

Wish me safe travels.

Scripture of the Day

2008-12-09T08:00:00.002-06:00

Isaiah 26:8-9 (King James Version)
8Yea, in the way of thy judgments, O LORD, have we waited for thee; the desire of our soul is to thy name, and to the remembrance of thee.
9With my soul have I desired thee in the night; yea, with my spirit within me will I seek thee early: for when thy judgments are in the earth, the inhabitants of the world will learn righteousness.

Not Me Monday!

2008-12-08T21:08:00.000-06:00

Well, this isn't a regular post as I don't have a decent computer to type on, let alone pull all my pictures and graphics together on, but I thought I'd give you at least one "Not Me" for the week.

I did not stay in my pajamas all day today doing only the dishes and one load of laundry and nothing else.
Nope, not me!

Head on over to MckMama's blog to follow other "Not Me" posts and get your kicks for the week. I'll try to have a regular post next week!

Update on Sara 12/8/08

2008-12-08T20:48:00.001-06:00

Well, to make a long story short, Sara is back in the hospital.

Last Tuesday, she went to the ER after work, her second day back, with that same pain in the groin she had that started this whole mess in the first place.
They of course admitted her, back to her favorite ICU of course. Her nurses were happy, but sad to see her.
They did a biopsy of her right leg where the graft is and results aren't back yet. Some drug they gave her gave her her biggest allergic reaction yet, and she had welts, not just hives, break out all over.
She is doing better now, however, as before, she is still a mystery to them
Tomorrow they are doing a bronchoscopy, not sure what they hope to determine from that.

Please just be in prayer for her once again.
I'll try to keep you posted on her progress.

Scripture of the Day

2008-12-08T08:00:00.000-06:00

Ephesians 5:1-2 (King James Version)
1Be ye therefore followers of God, as dear children;
2And walk in love, as Christ also hath loved us, and hath given himself for us an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweetsmelling savour.

Scripture of the Day

2008-12-07T08:00:00.000-06:00

Proverbs 10:14 (King James Version)
14Wise men lay up knowledge: but the mouth of the foolish is near destruction.

Scripture of the Day

2008-12-06T08:00:00.000-06:00

Mark 12:30 (King James Version)
30 And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy strength: this is the first commandment.

Happy Birthday to..........

2008-12-04T08:30:00.000-06:00

My sister Brenda, she loves the camera! Hope you enjoy your day!

Scripture of the Day

2008-12-04T08:00:00.000-06:00

Luke 12:8 (King James Version)
8 Also I say unto you, Whosoever shall confess me before men, him shall the Son of man also confess before the angels of God:

Scripture of the Day

2008-12-03T08:00:00.000-06:00

John 14:6 (King James Version)
6 Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.