3 Times 4 Life

Updated: A Rose is a Rose...On Your Nose...

2012-02-03T00:23:00.012-06:00

...its called Rosacea! <--- Click! That little rash that appeared around the first of December, just little red bumps, began to spread. It went down my neck, up around my ear, then around my mouth and cheeks. Saw the dermatologist on Monday. (I guess my body decided I needed ANOTHER specialist!) She kindly explained what it is, how to care for it, and that it will take a while to clear this up

First week of school...

2012-01-18T00:41:00.004-06:00

Finished the first week of classes for the Spring semester. I am taking three classes total, with two of them 'face-to-face' and one online. From all that I learned last semester, I am ready to attack this workload head on! Bring it!

Change is good....right?

2012-01-13T21:21:00.003-06:00

Due to 'budget cuts,' I am no longer employed as a Graduate Assistant. I am very disappointed, but there are some positives to this situation. The biggest is that I will have 20 more hours a week to study! On the negative side, a big loss of money. I may have to go back to tutoring, which doesn't excite me. LOLGod is good all of the time, so I will just continue to trust Him and see what comes

SCORE!

2012-01-04T00:44:00.002-06:00

Update 1/6/12 There has been a bit of confusion from my post. I had the surgery in July to remove my thyroid as a proactive step to ultimately avoid cancer in that body part. The nodes were discovered when I had a body scan back in 2007, before my Mastectomy. Since then, I have had regular sonograms and biopsies. Unfortunately, from January to June 2011, the number and size of the nodules

New Year's Resolution

2011-12-25T22:50:00.000-06:00

CHRISTMAS AT THE GAS STATION

2011-12-25T22:47:00.001-06:00

CHRISTMAS AT THE GAS STATIONThe old man sat in his gas station on a cold Christmas Eve. He hadn't been anywhere in years since his wife had passed away. It was just another day to him. He didn't hate Christmas, just couldn't find a reason to celebrate. He was sitting there looking at the snow that had been falling for the last hour and wondering what it was all about when the door opened and a

FOUR. POINT. OOOOOHHHH!

2011-12-20T08:00:00.001-06:00

So excited to be DONE with the fall semester! And praise the Lord, I achieved the 4.0 GPA that I was hoping for in my first attempt at Graduate level courses!This was a very difficult semester for me trying to balance everything: home, Keegan's Senior year (last marching contests, last half-times, etc), 10 hours of course work, 20 hours of work, and trying to stay healthy. I was at school for 12-

It's FINALS week....

2011-12-11T11:45:00.005-06:00

BUSY and BUSIER is about all I can say about this next week. Wanted to post this since it has been so long...more thoughts after all my tests! Be blessed!

Veteran's Day 2011

2011-11-11T20:57:00.004-06:00

Just want to say a big THANK YOU to all of the Veterans! My family appreciates all that you have given to maintain our freedom. Lots of my family are Veterans, but most proud of my three brothers:John--Retired Air ForceMike--ArmyGary--Marines, and active duty Army

80 Years of Celebration in One Night!

2011-10-22T19:25:00.005-05:00

We celebrated our 80th year of our high school band last night during Homecoming. It was so much fun seeing so many band people, who span the decades of our existence. It was surreal standing on the field, with my friends (and one was the Drum Major our Senior year!)...with my SON leading the band! I really tried to soak it all in. We missed so many of our friends--especially the ones we know are

NASCAR Racing Experience

2011-09-20T01:05:00.004-05:00

Well, this past weekend was a dream come true for my hubby! He drove a real stock car at the NASCAR Racing Experience at Texas Motor Speedway. His good friend was also able to drive. It was fun for all of us, because we were in the pits, right there by the pit wall. They also let us go to the driver's meeting, which was pretty cool too.I could not stop smiling, because it was such a neat thing

Never been happier about....

2011-09-12T21:12:00.001-05:00

...a fungal infection on my tongue! BA HA HADoc said it was 'boring' compared to what it could have been! I'll take boring when it comes to my health ANY DAY!Special mouth wash and I should be good to go. Praise the LORD!

Never Forget

2011-09-11T00:00:00.004-05:00

This flag was from Ground Zero and brought to the funeral of Lt. Todd Krodle A tribute...

I Really Hope It Is Nothing, but...

2011-08-29T18:54:00.001-05:00

Friends, I have shared my recent 'road block/speed bump' with only a few because it has really kind of thrown me for a loop. But, I ask you now to pray for me in this situation...Before I had the braces put back on, June I think, I saw a Periodontist to make sure my gums were healthy enough to proceed. They are. However, he noticed a spot on the underside of my tongue. He wanted to watch it, and

A Beginning...and an End!

2011-08-23T18:15:00.004-05:00

WOW! Once again, we enter a life changing time in our family. The beginning of my graduate school work for my career, and the end of Keegan's own high school career! The rest of this year is going to be one hectic time for all of us! Keegan is a SENIOR--still trying to get used to that. They started school on the 22nd, and I think he finally fixed his schedule last Friday. He is Head Drum Major

NASCAR Surprise!

2011-08-23T12:07:00.014-05:00

Oh my goodness, I pulled off the coolest surprise for Ricky, to celebrate his 50th Birthday this past weekend! I got him the NASCAR Racing Experience (<--- click for link) @Texas Motor Speedway! It is something I have wanted to do for a very long time, and I was finally able to do it. Back in February, he and a friend were at the RV Show in Dallas. I decided to check out the web site for

Galveston, TX in July

2011-07-27T19:16:00.004-05:00

Fishing boat Sunday morningAlong the SeawallTaken from the pierGentle morning wavesOne of my favorites! Sunday morning...

Thyroid Update

2011-07-27T19:00:00.002-05:00

NO CANCER in the thyroid! God is good all the time, and I thank Him!

Thyroid Surgery

2011-07-23T21:47:00.002-05:00

Ok, everyone! This is the update about my surgery....I had my thyroid removed @Medical City on Thurs, July 21st. Here is why: Before my mastectomy in 2007, a total body scan revealed some nodes growing on the thyroid. We have been watching them grow in size & number since then. Since I had all of the radiation to my neck for Hodgkin's in 1989, the likelyhood of cancer growing there is very high.

Let Freedom Ring!

2011-07-02T19:12:00.003-05:00

HAPPY 4TH OF JULY, AMERICA!I am so thankful to live in this country. We may have our flaws, but this country is still the best place to live on earth!

Mopsie

2011-06-24T21:28:00.003-05:00

This is our sweet Mopsie, the puppy we rescued last summer. She is fresh out of the groomer in this picture!

Update:

2011-06-18T23:13:00.003-05:00

Her name is Sandie.

You must be kidding me...

2011-06-18T23:09:00.002-05:00

Who took my husband away? Last year, we adopted two new pets within a few months of each other. We just rescued a little puppy last week, and guess what else has shown up? An adorable little kitten that he wants to keep as an outdoor pet. I have told him over & over that it will break my heart if I get attached to a kitty, and it gets hit or disappears. :(I will try to get a picture of her

Uh-oh!

2011-06-12T15:11:00.006-05:00

She found us this morning. Need I say more? *sigh*(Small pics from my phone)Rosie was not impressed.Everyone of our pups has done this!The three of them were curious!

Life After Cancer

2011-06-02T01:02:00.003-05:00

(Warning: Sensitive information regarding breast cancer, mastectomy, and undergarments are the basis of this entry. It is not graphic, but some may prefer not to read it.)I just passed my 3rd 'anniversary' of having breast cancer & bilateral mastectomy. For many reasons, I chose not to endure re-constructive surgery.I do not think of myself as less feminine without them, but I do wear prosthetic

Happy Photos From My Graduation Day!

2011-05-27T14:14:00.004-05:00

I finally did it!Sharing my day!Aww....We are happy!Keegan, Me, & RickyiROARBeing sillyIn the Alumni GardenUsHow did he get so tall???

Another is taken....

2011-05-19T12:00:00.000-05:00

God allows it, then He takes them...we may never know why! A 40 year old mother of two is without pain, sorrow, or fear today because she is in Heaven with the angels and her Lord. What happened? She got SKIN CANCER from years of tanning, both in boothes and outside. She spent years fighting it. The cancer spread to her liver and brain. There was nothing more for the doctors to do... If we

I GRADUATED Today!!!

2011-05-14T14:10:00.002-05:00

Click on the picture!

To: Kathy Lagoli

2011-05-11T13:19:00.001-05:00

I just checked my threetimes4life email, and your message went to spam. Now I can't read it. If you would, please re-send! I would like to know what you had to say. Thanks!

Hi, Friends!

2011-05-11T00:57:00.002-05:00

This message is for all of you that live in other countries, and visit my blog. Welcome! It would be great if some of you would sign my guest book, so I can get to know you.Interesting that this came up, because I have been thinking about all of the new friends I made at school this year. I am especially happy that I met so many International students! Taiwan, Gambia, Nepal, Saudi Arabia,

I. Am. Free. !

2011-05-10T23:00:00.002-05:00

The last papers have been turned in, the last presentations have been made, the last final has been taken--I am free! My undergraduate work came to a close today, after my last final. This has been such a long journey! I am so thankful that God has allowed this to finally happen for me in my life. On Saturday, I will be recognized as a College Graduate....finally!When I left high school in 19-- (

One Week from Today....

2011-05-07T20:00:00.002-05:00

So exciting: just one more week, and I will be a college graduate! Of course, I have finals to finish first.....

Note To Self:

2011-04-11T16:44:00.004-05:00

I am my worst critic! I just spent a weekend sick as a dog because I am so hard on myself. I really need to learn to figure out how to manage my stress in new ways, because my body WILL take over if left too long without some release. My Senior Seminar research project is about using Music Therapy with Children that have Autism. Since April is Autism Awareness Month, here is a little reminder.

39 Days & counting!

2011-04-05T22:58:00.001-05:00

Bought my cap & gown today! And ordered announcements....getting really Excited!

Graduation is Coming Soon!

2011-03-29T01:08:00.002-05:00

46 days, but who's counting? :D

Spring Break 2011

2011-03-17T16:00:00.004-05:00

It never ceases to amaze me how fast the months go! God has blessed us with so many great days already this year, so it is time to catch up on our news.First of all, the snow we had this year was quite unusual! We missed school, but thankfully for us, no power outages or food shortages. I was ready to see it melt away, because this girl doesn't live in a snow state for a reason! Ha!The new

February Snow in North Texas!

2011-02-03T22:00:00.002-06:00

Well, this has been our week for winter weather. Ice Tues & Wed., Snow Friday...I'll try to catch up later, but here are some pictures of the pretty white stuff....

Merry Christmas!

2010-12-25T23:30:00.002-06:00

The three of us.Miss PepperKeegan was such a help with the lights.Miss MopsieMiss CallieThese two are buddies!

2010-12-19T22:57:00.001-06:00

Here is another:

2010-12-19T20:00:00.001-06:00

This was shown in church today...very cool!

NASCAR Rap

2010-11-24T14:06:00.002-06:00

Even if you are not a NASCAR fan, you will like this! LOL

A Moment of Your TIME

2010-11-23T20:00:00.001-06:00

Update TIME! What a busy TIME of year! I think I described October as 'crazy busy'; the same could be said of November so far. Tutoring TIME finally started a few weeks ago. So far, I have tutored Anatomy, Sociology, MIS (computing class), and a few others. My schedule filled up this week with appointments, which gave me a bit of stress, but it worked out fine. The end of the semester is coming

2010-11-12T20:27:00.001-06:00

Reach for the hand to pull someone up--you will not be in a superior position, and they will have a chance to succeed!

Pet Peeve

2010-11-08T10:19:00.002-06:00

I am just so amazed at the ignorance some people are willing to show others because they have a loud, strong opinion! A situation happened in class today, as one lady made a statement about her belief in something, although it is a known fact that the topic is true. It was all I could do not to jump in her conversation and ask her if she was serious!Wow....just....wow!

2010-10-27T21:46:00.002-05:00

Just Sayin'!

Breast Cancer Awareness Month

2010-10-24T00:32:00.005-05:00

A month to educate and celebrate the remarkable strides that have been made in breast cancer research, detection and treatment! Thinking of my friend Kate....and praying for A. Sue, who just found out she too has breast cancer. I am now three years out from my diagnosis--PRAISE THE LORD!

October, the Month of Craziness

2010-10-23T23:00:00.006-05:00

October is living up to its predictions: CRAZY BUSY!Between college and all of Keegan's band activities, we are one busy family. There are days I don't even see my son to talk to him because of our schedules! On those days, I at least try to text him and find out how things are going for him. *sigh*The band had three competitions this month. Two Saturdays in a row, and then UIL this past Tuesday.

Puppy Update

2010-09-30T20:24:00.004-05:00

Our little Mopsie has just fit right in around here. She is a sweet, good natured little girl that loves to give kisses and follow us around. She and Callie havebecome really good buddies. In fact, we scheduled both of them for their spay surgery today, so they can heal together!I was finally able to take her to the groomer last week. She looks like a totally different dog, and we can SEE her

College Life!

2010-09-30T20:00:00.000-05:00

We are now in the third week of our semester and I LOVE IT! My first class is Deviant Behavior, which is interesting. Our instructor is a former police officer, so it is pretty cool to hear some of his stories and how they relate to our topics. My online class is for my major, and more research type, highly intellectual material. Not liking that one so much. Health Psychology is going to be my

Friday Night Lights!

2010-08-28T23:00:00.004-05:00

High School football is here; but really it is MARCHING SEASON! Hooray!We had our first game last night at home. The football team did well in parts of the game, but not so well in others. We lost, but that is ok. We were even featured as the game of the week for a Dallas TV news show!Our band and drill team were AWESOME! We are small, but we are MIGHTY. It was so exciting watching our Drum Major

Another One?

2010-08-25T23:45:00.000-05:00

Something rather peculiar is happening in our house! My vet always tells me that stray animals find you when you both need each other. All of our pets, except the guinea pig (Stinky), and the parakeet (Nitro) have been strays. When we were married 19 years ago, my cat (QQ) who was a rescue, was already living with my hubby. She had been with my family for several years before.Then, the greyhound

A Year of Firsts

2010-08-23T23:56:00.006-05:00

Today was the first day of school for our kids. Keegan started his Junior year! This photo is the first ever that we were not pictured with him, because he has a 'zero' period at 7:00 am, and Ricky and I were not ready when he had to leave! It is going to be a great year, the first foot ball game, and first for K to direct the band as Drum Major is this Friday! We had a sneak peak last week when

August Rush

2010-08-23T12:13:00.000-05:00

After a lovely time in Galveston, the following weeks were a whirlwind of activity! I had braces put on July 20--this is the second time for me. If you have had braces, WEAR YOUR RETAINERS! Unfortunately, mine broke and I did not have the cash to replace them. What my orthodontist said was true, "Teeth move back to where they came from." Mine moved so much that they were banging together and

Tragedy to Triumph

2010-08-17T22:30:00.007-05:00

Summer school is over--Praise the Lord! I have never doubted myself more as a student than I did in the first summer session. It was not pretty for a while, but I made it through. Second session was much better since I took one class instead of two, but it was still a challenge. Now I have two weeks off for VACATION, and then it is back to a fast and furious fall!Our church and our community

K's New Ride

2010-07-02T23:46:00.007-05:00

Baby truck and Daddy truck!Scraping off the old window decalsThis 1998 Ford Ranger is a trade in from R's work. Very good deal, and a great first vehicle for a lucky young man!

A Day Like Today

2010-06-02T22:02:00.008-05:00

Wow, what a day we have had! My little boy, no--my young man, passed his driving test to get his driver's license; his Band letter jacket arrived; he lead his first Band leadership meeting; and he had a date with his girlfriend! To top it off, he said, "Tomorrow, I will be a Junior!" Where did all the time go?I have mentioned before that I try very hard not to look too far into the future. God's

Brothers In Arms, Part 2

2010-05-31T08:59:00.002-05:00

Reposting for Memorial DayUpdate: My little brother is now in the Army, serving as a Scout; not deployed yet, praying he never will be!See "Brothers In Arms, Part 1" HEREJesse Daniel TilleryOf the three stars on the back of Martin Tillery's hat, one of them would now be colored gold. This gold star would indicate the death of the Tillery's youngest son, Jesse Daniel Tillery. Jesse, Jim, and Jared

2010-05-26T08:50:00.004-05:00

It is no coincidence that a picture of me shaking the hand of the President while receiving my diploma at graduation a few weeks ago, showed up in the hometown newspaper today! Thanks for caring, Jr. College! See post about the professional photos not turning out HERE

Meet Callie Kitty!

2010-05-24T22:45:00.000-05:00

Who Signed Me Up For This?!

2010-05-24T15:04:00.003-05:00

Baby kitty rescued by Ricky Friday night near the interstate. She is a keeper; a sweet little 5-6 week old calico, 1.2 lbs, gorgeous markings. Slowly trying to integrate her into Pepper's life, LOL. I feel like I did when K was little--she is full of energy. We crashed together earlier today and I finally had to put her in her box so I could take a shower!God's little miracles are such blessings!

Graduation, Floor Show, Photo Shoot--Wow! (Part 3 of 3)

2010-05-20T06:02:00.001-05:00

Since we were having a whirl-wind weekend, I had planned a photo shoot with Keegan in his white tuxedo, and me in my graduation regalia. It turned out to be a magical day that produced some amazing photos! (in no particular order...)There are many other fantastic shots that I will treasure forever!

Graduation, Floor Show, Photo Shoot--Wow! (Part 2 of 3)

2010-05-20T06:00:00.001-05:00

The Band & Flash Floor Show is our annual program that showcases our talented kids to the community. The Band and the Jazz Band play various pieces, the Flashes, our drill team, dance to several styles of music, and new members and officers of both groups are presented.Presentation of the new Drum Major (isn't he handsome?)He walks out....He begins his salute...WHOOSH--it's magic!He receives his

Graduation, Floor Show, Photo Shoot--Wow! (Part 1 of 3)

2010-05-18T23:00:00.002-05:00

(Click photo for a larger view)So, what are the odds of my camera not working on the way to Graduation, my professional photo not turning out from when I received my diploma, AND my eyes shut in the professional photo in front of the flag??? Yes, it happened. I am so disappointed. The picture above was taken by a sweet friend of mine that was at the graduation for her daughter. I have emailed

Years Turn In To Years

2010-05-10T20:30:00.001-05:00

We visited Ricky's Grandmother (Nanny) at the nursing home yesterday. She looked so pretty--her hair was fixed, her nails were painted, and she even had some make up on her face. It was a good day for her; she remembered us and said things she always used to say. To Keegan, "It doesn't seem like you should be that big!" and "You're a big 'ol boy!"Of course, she was still 'not all with us' in some

2010-05-08T23:46:00.002-05:00

Learn about the other fantastic ladies that won the same scholarship as me. They are amazing!Possible Woman Foundation International2010 Scholarship Recipients

Atlanta Trip, Part 4

2010-04-26T09:00:00.003-05:00

Atlanta (March 5, 2010) – Donors to thePossible Woman Foundation International(PWFI) will get a chance to meet the women whose lives they are helping to change at an event Monday, April 19. Orchidea: A Celebration of New Beginnings will be held at the Wimbish House (Atlanta Woman’s Club) at 1150 Peachtree St. in Atlanta. The event starts with a wine reception at 6:30 followed by dinner at 7:00.

Atlanta Trip, Part 3

2010-04-25T23:00:00.003-05:00

Since we were to meet our drivers at 5:30 pm to go to the banquet, I decided to start getting ready a little early. Soon, my room mate, M, came and we chatted about the excitement and shared a little about ourselves.It was finally time to meet our new friends! One by one, we met each of the other recipients who had won a scholarship. We loaded the cars and went to the Winbish Mansion, a lovely

Atlanta Trip, Part 2

2010-04-24T15:15:00.003-05:00

Arriving in Atlanta, I had instructions on where to meet my driver. (Boy, was I feeling special, a driver of my own? LOL) As we exited the plane, we took an escalator to a lower level, where I was to take an underground rail to the baggage claim area. This was a new experience for me. I sat and thought that if I missed my stop, I could just ride the thing back and forth. I took the photo above

Atlanta Trip, Part 1

2010-04-23T23:03:00.007-05:00

There are many scholarships out there for young, fresh-out of high school students. There are many other scholarships, but many have multiple requirements. When I decided to Google "Women's Scholarships," I found one called "Possible Woman Foundation International." It was for the non-traditional (read: older) woman/student who either started and stopped her education, or never was able to start.

Been There, Done That!

2010-04-21T14:00:00.003-05:00

Possible Woman Foundation International2010 Scholarship WinnersBanquet & Woman's ConferenceAtlanta, GAApril 19-20, 2010Representing (L-R): California, Arizona, Illinois, Georgia, Texas, Georgia, & New Jersey My trip to Atlanta, Georgia was phenomenal! I don't know the last time I felt so special in all of my life! The six other ladies who won scholarships were inspiring and surely more worthy

Through My Lens....A Tribute To America

2010-04-12T00:46:00.004-05:00

I found the song piece I will use on my final power point project, for my computer class. Enjoy!Fanfare for the Common Man, Aaron CoplandRecorded by the U.S. Marine BandUnited States Marine Band - Fanfare for the Common Man Found at abmp3 search engine

I feel a post coming on...

2010-03-31T23:31:00.001-05:00

Maybe this weekend I will be able to gather my thoughts and get a new post up. Be blessed!

It IS Possible!

2010-03-22T20:31:00.008-05:00

I received one of the most exciting phone calls this weekend that I have ever had! The news: I am one of 7 ladies to receive a $5,000.00 college scholarship from Possible Woman Foundation International...AND...they will fly me to Atlanta, GA next month for the awards banquet! Isn't that amazing?My sweet hubby was in disbelief, saying, "$5,000? Really? And they are going to fly you out there?

Time For Change

2010-03-20T15:30:00.001-05:00

When I think of this past month, I start to add up all the changes that have happened in that short amount of time. Changes in weather, changes in friendships, changes in plans, change in time. Many people say that they hate change, or that they won't change. Others simply accept change, and move forward.Personally, when rapid changes happen, I usually see God working, and think that He must be '

2010-02-26T21:53:00.009-06:00

(For some reason, I forgot to post this! Shattered Dreams was back in February)The last few weeks have been even more emotional than the previous two! The Shattered Dreams program at the high school was one of the most amazing experiences I have ever had. Everyone involved gave a great cooperative effort to make this happen. If even one person is impacted by this, it will all be worth it. My

Making An Impact

2010-02-13T19:43:00.014-06:00

The service for Kate was wonderful! It was the first time I had attended a funeral at an African-American church. There are differences, but what I walked away with was how uplifting and celebratory it was. As we walked to our car after the service, I heard someone say, "There was a lot of love in there!" Indeed there was. I estimate over 500 people in attendance to say good bye to our friend. My

Another Friend Is Gone...

2010-02-01T15:20:00.002-06:00

I have lost three friends in 6 months...all three because of cancer!My friend Kate passed away last night, after a year long battle with cancer. She endured chemo, surgery & radiation. She seemed to be doing so well, yet the cancer was not gone from her body. The cancer came back with a vengeance. When I visited with her last, she was in a lot of pain and having trouble breathing. Within a week,

Welcome to the year 2010!

2010-01-06T17:00:00.002-06:00

I am so excited to see what God has planned for us in this new year. It is time to put 2009's triumphs and trials behind us. It was a good year in many ways, but was also very difficult. I think the most significant times that I will remember about last year are:1. Starting back to college after 16 years2. Keegan's growth and maturity--band leadership, passing his dad in height, and learning to

A Sign Of The Times

2009-12-18T22:00:00.000-06:00

While traveling around town the last few nights, something seemed very different. What is it? Is there something missing some where? The answer is, Yes.This is the Christmas season, the time between Thanksgiving and the New Year. It is a time of celebration to honor the birth of Jesus, God's only Son. Parties, parades, and special music fill our calendars. Christmas trees, twinkling lights, and .

Taking Control When the Odds Are Against You

2009-12-09T23:00:00.002-06:00

(The following article was prepared and posted by me as part of a college scholarship essay contest. Comments are welcome.)James “Rhio” O’Connor was a man that was fighting for his life against a monstrous cancer called Mesothelioma. “Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer in which cancerous cells are found in the mesothelium, a protective sac that covers most of the body's internal organs. There

Pretties....

2009-12-03T21:23:00.006-06:00

Wanted to share a few pictures of the roses I received yesterday. They were to thank me for volunteering to be a co-chair on a health advisory committee for the school district. A very pleasant surprise!(Click on a photo for a larger view.)

2nd Thanksgiving

2009-12-03T21:06:00.005-06:00

Our get together with my family was great. It was the first time in several years that my youngest brother was here with us, and the first year with his wife! Just a few pictures from the night. It was great to just relax and talk for a while. (Click on a photo for a larger view.)My MomMy brother & sister in law

One Day Down, One To Go!

2009-11-27T21:00:00.000-06:00

Our families are here in the area, which is nice. After several years of trying to celebrate Thanksgiving with everyone on the same day, we have found a happy medium. Thanksgiving day with R's parents/family; another day--usually a Saturday, with my parents/family.Here are some photos from our time with R's family yesterday. (Click on any photo for a larger view.)Me and my guys!His dad even lets

A Season of Thanks

2009-11-25T23:00:00.000-06:00

It is the eve of Thanksgiving 2009. There are so many things to be thankful for, and so many things run through my mind. However, here is what came to mind this morning:I stood outside for an hour waiting for the motorcade procession of a young fallen soldier, killed in Afghanistan. While I stood there, I thought to myself that this was too soon...we just did this a few weeks ago. It has been

Academically speaking...

2009-11-21T22:00:00.000-06:00

I still need to decide what I am going to do when I grow up! The original plan of course, was Occupational Therapy. Because I have so much education in science & psychology, I would like to do something in the medical/health care field. Similarly, since I have so much experience in being a patient of the medical system, I am interested in some sort of patient advocacy as well. Maybe I should

Beginnings, endings...and the times in between

2009-11-10T20:20:00.004-06:00

I am sure you have heard the story of 'The Dash'. It is the time between your birth date and your death date, the little dash that is put in between the numbers. It represents all of your life on earth. Everything.The question of course, is if you can fill your dash and live your life to the fullest? Do those not so exciting, routine days blend with the over the top, outstanding days and

Short note

2009-10-31T15:55:00.003-05:00

Just plain worn out! First Saturday off in a long time, and I am trying to catch up on things---going very slowly!One day, hopefully this week, I can catch up. Just not today.Praying that YOU have a great weekend. Take time to be with those you love, and if you have beautiful fall weather like we do today, go out and just take in all that God has given us!Blessings!

Update

2009-10-23T13:34:00.003-05:00

Life is crazy busy.Our Band made a Superior, Division 1 at contest on Tuesday. It was the first time in 8 years! We compete in Area on Saturday.I wrote a story in Spanish for the first time last week. It was difficult, but fun. There were mistakes, of course, but I felt good about it.I will get another massage next week--after being on the bus again with the kids, I will need it!The new shoes and

Happy News!

2009-10-13T22:06:00.003-05:00

My friend P, and her foster daughter V, had a play date with her former foster son LM, on Monday! (Got that?) His mom agreed to meet them, so they could spend some time together.P reports that LM is growing, looks great, and even calls her P now, instead of Momma. (I am sure that was a little confusing with Momma and Mommy being different people) LM's mom seems to be doing all that she is

My Saturday in Pictures, Part 4 of 4

2009-10-05T13:33:00.013-05:00

(Once again, these are snapshotsfrom the videos I made.Click on any photo to see larger view)There was great joy when the winners were announced! In our division (8 bands total) we won:Best Music, Best Visual, Best All AroundThe trophy... The certificates... The rankings...Out of 22 bands, across 4 divisions, we ranked 15th!CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR KIDS!Our very happy band director!WINNERS back

My Saturday in Pictures, Part 3 of 4

2009-10-05T13:28:00.009-05:00

After our performance and lunch, we watched all of the other bands perform throughout the day...(Click on any photo to see a larger view)

My Saturday in Pictures, Part 2 of 4

2009-10-05T13:11:00.015-05:00

For the first time this season, I was on the sideline during their performance. I actually took video, but it was too big to load on here, so here are snapshots from the video, of their performance:(Click on any photo to see a larger view) First set finished...Time to change...Playing "Back in Black"At the end of the show, they yell out,"Thank You! Goodnight!"

My Saturday in Pictures, Part 1 of 4

2009-10-05T11:02:00.017-05:00

I wanted to share the fun time we had at contest on Saturday with the Band. (Click any photo to see larger view)We traveled by school bus to the contest site...They huddled together to visualize their performance...(This is ^^^ my boy ) They lined up in formation...Did their warm up... And headed off to compete....

Now What Am I Gonna Do?

2009-10-01T20:13:00.005-05:00

I am just not happy tonight. I will get this out now, and will move on, but I just need to vent a bit.I was so proud of myself when I started my walking program, and that I actually liked it! A point came when I noticed a difference, and that was really cool. Then...I started experiencing the foot pain and shin splints every time I walked. So, I modified my routine by walking a little, then

Re-post

2009-09-20T21:11:00.004-05:00

I am re-posting this, because my friend P. will be sending LM to his forever home on Friday. I was able to help her inventory & pack his things, and finish his 'life book' this weekend. It is going to be so hard to let him go....please pray for all of them! When loving someone breaks your heart... I have a friend that I love very much. We have been friends since we were teenagers; she was my

Health

2009-09-17T23:30:00.004-05:00

This has been a very trying week. I have walked, and I have taken a day off due to rain. I can tell the difference when I don't walk, so I think I am hooked now. No more counting days of exercise; just gonna go with it.I did see my doctor about my joint & foot pain. She is sending me to a podiatrist because she said when a bunion starts hurting a lot, it is time to do something about it. In the

Walking: Day 9

2009-09-13T20:25:00.004-05:00

Took Friday off to rest up for the weekend. The football game was great and the marching band was too! Our team is on a roll like we have not seen in over 10 years!Saturday was a very big day, and I made up with all the walking and climbing stairs! Our band, with 6 others, were invited to play with the TAMU-C band for their football game held in the Cotton Bowl yesterday! It was going to be a '

2009-09-10T23:45:00.002-05:00

Maybe I can enter next year...

Walking: Days 7 & 8

2009-09-10T13:44:00.006-05:00

Well, I am living up to my nick-name: Snail Lady! That is how I feel when I start hurting, or when I think I should be able to go a longer distance than I do. No worries though, I am still in there doing it, and will continue! Won't my doctors be so proud of me when I see them next week? LOL

Walking (And Stretching): Day 6

2009-09-08T15:44:00.004-05:00

After resting my feet over the weekend, I got back to my walking this morning. It was another beautiful day! I stretched more before starting, and tried something a little different. Stretch a little, walk a little; stretch a little, walk a little. I still walked the same area as I had been, but by stopping to stretch, it helped me get through it with less pain. I figure shorter distances are