just some ramblings

I need some insight...

2011-01-25T11:05:00.000-08:00

I have been reading this book for the past few days, and to be honest with you all, I can't put it down. Well I am actually reading it on my Kindle app, but that is beside the point.

The adoration that I have for Beth Moore's writing and speaking is huge. She is an amazing woman with a spunky personality. God has blessed her immensely with the ability to communicate- and her words always hit home with me.

I have always wondered why there seems to be so many stories of church leaders who fall to sin- but I guess I never really thought about the fact that Satan's attack against them, because they are people of influence, is that much greater. I am sure you all have your own stories of people you knew or looked up to who have been lead astray.

Beth talks about how because we are living in the End Times, we will see more and more of people who fall to ungodly things.

2 Timothy 3:1-7

But mark this: There will be terrible times in the last days. People will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, proud, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, without love, unforgiving, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not lovers of the good, treacherous, rash, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God- having a form of godliness but denying its power.

Have nothing to do with them. They are the kind who worm their way into homes and gain control over weak-willed woman, who are loaded down with sins and swayed by all kinds of evil desires, always learning but never able to acknowledge the truth.

Those 'times' surely sound like our 'times'. Don't they?

Here is where I struggle- If there is someone out there who could help me with this, your input would be greatly appreciated. How do you love people back after they have chosen the ungodly way- if they don't want to be reconciled?

Our office does Blackaby's "Experiencing God", and last Monday's devotional truly hit home. Here is what is said:

Be Reconciled!

"Leave your gift there before the altar, and go your way. First be reconciled to your brother, and then come and offer your gift." (Matthew 5:24)

It is useless to give offerings to God while you are at enmity with your brother. Jesus said that His followers should be reconciled with anyone who has something against them. The world seeks reconciliation on limited terms. Christians are to be reconciled, whatever it takes.

You say, “But you don’t know how deeply he hurt me! It’s unreasonable to ask me to restore our relationship.” Or, “I tried but she would not be appeased.” Jesus did not include an exception clause for our reconciliation. If the person is an enemy, Jesus said to love him (Matt. 5:44). If he persecutes you, you are to pray for him (v. 44). If she publicly humiliates you, you are not to retaliate (v. 39). If someone takes advantage of you, you are to give even more than he asks (v. 41). The world preaches “Assert yourself.” Jesus taught, “Deny yourself.” The world warns that you will be constantly exploited. Jesus’ concern was not that His disciples be treated fairly but that they show unconditional love to others regardless of how they were treated. Men spat upon Jesus and nailed Him to a cross. His response was our model: “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they do” (Luke 23:34).

If there were ever a command that is constantly disobeyed, it is this mandate to be reconciled. We comfort ourselves with the thought, “God knows that I tried to make things right, but my enemy refused.” God’s word does not say “Try to be reconciled,” but “Be reconciled.” Is there someone with whom you need to make peace? Then do what God tells you to do.

HOW????

Advice? Input? Anything?

My favorite day of the year

2010-12-23T18:34:00.000-08:00

December 23rd has been my favorite day of the year since I have been in high school. There are always fun things to do and I feel like if I truly thought about it, I might be able to remember every 12/23 for the past 10 years. The anticipation and excitement that I feel for the next few days coupled with fact that I just finished wrapping the last of the gifts and making 3 kinds of cookies with my adorable mom makes me so thrilled for the celebration of the birth of Our King.

Today I am just thankful. Thankful for a Savior who loved us so much that he came to earth knowing that He would have to be the sacrifice for you and me. I am grateful for the love that He is despite my constant sin- not just the love he shows us, the love he IS!

(by the way- I am also really thankful that I am going to see the kids tomorrow)

December 22, 2010

2010-12-22T11:42:00.000-08:00

This was yesterday. Lots of presents to be delivered.

Here we are on our delivery from today. This is Meal's On Wheel!

I am thankful that nearly 6000 gifts will be delivered to sweet seniors this week! It is such a blessing!

12.21

2010-12-21T18:03:00.000-08:00

Believe it or not, I am completely done with wrapping gifts for Be a Santa to a Senior. To be honest with you, I cannot believe it myself. When this season started, I was worried. Worried was an understatement. I was sleepless and overwhelmed. This has been the busiest season our company has ever had, and I knew that i would not be able to devote every waking moment to micromanaging every second of the program.

If you know me well at all, you would know that I have a bit of a control issue... Again another understatement. So even though I was unable to control every bit of this amazing few months, it has been accomplished... And today as I sit on my couch watching 'The Invention of Lying' I feel relaxed and at peace and for that, I am soooo thankful!

12/20/10

2010-12-20T13:33:00.000-08:00

Today has been so productive. I have sent out two more shipments of presents- totally about 500 gifts to 200 seniors. It is always so amazing watching the cars, packed to the brim drive away.

Today I am thankful- more like overwhelmed. I am so blessed that God has chosen me to work in a place that sees people as top priority, a place that no matter what will cling to relationship. Nearly 4 1/2 years ago when I started working here at Home Instead. I met a client named Mr. F. This little man stole my heart from the first moment that I met him. He is about 5 foot tall and weighs probably 100 lbs. We actually provide care for his wife, and he had always done the insurance billing for her.

I will never forget the first time I met him. He came in, feet shuffling beneath him. In his hands was an envelope that held all of his wife's insurance forms. He wanted me to sit and help him fill them out. After looking through the paper work, I realized that no matter how I described the papers to him, he would still be confused. The silly papers are simply confusing! I told him that I would do it for him. The look that came over his face was relief mixed with joy. So because of Mr. F, I now bill nearly 50 insurance companies and handle claims for seniors.

Every year for the past 5 Christmases, this sweet Jewish man sends me a Christmas present. Today, I was feeling the stress of bills and presents and all, and there in the mail was this card... this card filled with a generous Christmas present! Today I am thankful for God knowing just what we need, when we need it! Check out those crazy birds wearing Santa hats!!!

December19th, 2010

2010-12-19T13:23:00.000-08:00

Today was a great day.

When I woke up at 7:30 to the sound of my sweet parents putzing around in the kitchen. I hopped right out of bed to make eggnog scones. We had a nice breakfast and then my brothers, Rachel and myself went out to finish up some Christmas shopping! It was a blast all being together!

When we got home, I wrapped all the gifts and put them under the tree. I don't know about all of you, but there is something about wrapped presents under the Christmas tree that truly brings Christmas to the next level for me.

I get giddy thinking about cute little faces waking up on Christmas morning to open gifts and fish out goodies from stockings. This year, the kids will be sleeping over on Christmas eve, so we will get to enjoy every minute of that with them! I can't wait. Today I am thankful that after 3.5 days of work that I get to be back here with this adorable family sharing Christ's birthday with them!

failure... double failure

2010-12-18T17:38:00.000-08:00

life is fast. it is rushing by!

I don't even have time to think.

As I type this, I am being summoned to help my mom make her bed.

Today I am thankful for great relationships with my whole family. We all get along great. As a matter of fact, Slim and Greg have been off gallivanting across town the past 5 hours. I'm off to make a bed- and then to play some cards!

Please be merciful to me :) I will promise to do better this week!

failure

2010-12-16T06:03:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I was a failure, and did not post a blog. To be honest with you, I didn't even think about it one time until I went to sign in to post today's thankful post. Sorry to the two of you who read this.

Well believe it or not, we are a week away. A week away from a couple days off of work. A couple days off to celebrate with my dear and darling lovies!

They fly to Florida today from Colorado, and just simply having them in this time zone makes my heart happy! I am so thankful that we will be together for Christmas. Together at my parent's house. Though it was never my house, it has begun to feel like home. I love waking up early there. I love hearing my parents rustle through the kitchen at 6 am. I love wearing my bathrobe all day because just being together is enoug.

Today I am thankful for all of my immediate family being in the same time zone! Silly as it sounds, I woke up and thought, today much more will be right with the world.

My grown up Christmas wish for you is family, love and friends.

12.14.10

2010-12-14T17:31:00.000-08:00

I can't believe that we are so close to Christmas. So close to the best days of the whole year. I simply cannot wait! I can't wait for the feeling of waking up knowing that I get to be together with the ones I love the most here on Earth... celebrating the One I love the most EVER!

Today is a silly post, but hey, I am truly thankful for the following things.

Hot Apple Cider/ Caramel Apple Spice

Peppermint Mochas

and Mochas from Dunkin Donuts

I know it seems silly but I really am happy for this time of year, because all of the above are ok for me to drink because it is Christmas and the calories don't count... at least that is what I am telling myself!

Wind Chills

2010-12-13T14:02:00.000-08:00

Today the wind chill made the temperature this morning feel like it was in the 30s. I know what you are thinking... a girl from Syracuse should be able to handle that weather. Well I can, but it still feels very very very cold to me.

Today as I sit and listen to the wind whistle outside my window. I am thankful, very very thankful for this wonderful place that I live. Never in my wildest dreams would I have imagined that I would live in a place where palm trees were dressed up in lights for Christmas, where the beach is the place people go for baptisms, and where 30 degrees makes me cold.

Though I am thankful for this amazing place, I am also so thankful that I grew up with the seasons. I love the feeling of expectancy when I would hear that we were going to get dumped with snow. I adored waking up to white blankets of beauty covering the trees, sidewalks, and roads. I truly loved it! I am thankful that I know what it means and feels like to have to scrape my car- or blow dry the ice to melt it so that I could open my door. Those memories are amazing!

Here is a fun article that I came across the other day. I am thankful I grew up there, but even more thankful that I don't live there now :)

Constant reminders 12.12.10

2010-12-12T16:35:00.000-08:00

Today, Sunday the 12th of December I am thankful for God's constant reminders of His love for us!

It may seem silly, but Friday night, I went to a Christmas performance of 'Creepy Crawly Christmas' and I was reminded through some adults dressed like bugs that Jesus didn't leave Heaven to come to Earth, Jesus is Heaven.

Over the last couple of days, I have been very aware of Christ's presence with me. Whether it was because of the sweet man ringing the Salvation Army bell who was singing Christmas Carols and making up his own words. It just brought such joy to my heart to see the large white man with New Balance Sneakers remind me of my Savior.

Strangely enough, I almost took a picture of my hair on the wall in the shower today (gross, I know)- it was definitely in the shape of Mary, Joseph, and Baby Jesus in the manger. It was so weird but so amazing. I am definitely not one of the people who see Mary in their toast and then sell it on ebay, but today I could have been! Hahah!

I never doubt He is with me, but today I am even more thankful for the reminder of his love and presence.

Day 11 - The Slimtronic5000 takeover special!

2010-12-11T14:00:00.000-08:00

I must warn up front that while this isn't an abnoxiously long post, it's certainly not short either... however, today, on December 11th, 11 days into the this journey of 30 days of thankfulness, I'm thankful that my wife never changes her passwords!

While many may frown on a spouse of "hacks" into the others, however I assure you it's with great cause as I, much like the angel in the Nativity story, bring good news of great joy!

I know what you're thinking:
"Are they moving?"
"Did one of them get a new job?"
"Did Slim's band, FellowBliss, get signed?"
"Oh dear, are they preggers!?"
"Oh no, I know it... Slim finally cut his hair!?!?!?"

No... it's none of the above... it's MUCH better!!

"What's better than all of that stuff?" I know you're asking...

Easy: IT'S SPAGHETTI NIGHT IN THE GILLIAN HOUSEHOLD! Woot, woot!

With that being said, the Slimtronic5000 takeover edition of Laura's "Thankfulness" series is two-fold...

I'm thankful for spaghetti, spaghetti night, and pastas in general. As you may know, I'm a published food writer with a righteous, rich, and rather respectable palette (if I do say so myself)... so needless to say, I love me some food, especially when it's GOOD!

But more than the spaghetti and fine foods, I'm thankful for a bride that enjoys cooking and taking care of a shlub like me. I'm certainly not easy to put up with as it is, and definitely even harder to live with! With three jobs, one of which includes a touring rock band, my schedule is out of control. Couple that with the fact that I'm a genuinely awful human being, and even worse a husband, it makes sweet Laura into even more of a Saint!

Seriously, patience like I've never seen before! Not only is she drop-dead gorgeous, but she's got a heart the size of my web presence on social networks (for those of you who know me, you know that's friggin' huge!) and is, in her own right, HYSTERICAL.

I know many people, and many funny people to boot... but nobody ever seems to get me chuckling quite like the L-Train does.

She's the greatest friend that anyone could ask for... honestly. She takes care of everyone that comes into contact with her, and would truly give you the shirt off of her back. (er... well... maybe not literally...)

There are so many things I could say about this ridiculously amazing woman... in fact, I found a small list that of things that I love about LBG that I wrote a month before our wedding. It's amazing how everything I penned years ago still holds true (and more) today:

Things I love about her...
• Her smile
• Her eyes
• Her voice
• Her own little language (i.e.: "Fiffernug", "Jean Ween" etc.)
• Her humor
• Her wit
• Her sense of style
• Her classy-ness
• She's a dreamer.
• She's prone to extreme silliness.
• She's honest and trustworthy and loyal.
• She has a bizarre sense of humor.
• She makes a good eggs.
• She's cute.
• She puts up with me.
• She's going to be a FANTASTIC mom
• Her energy is infectious
• She's adventurous, seeking out new experiences.
• She's sexy AND smart.
• How she continues to fight for me, even when I neglect her
• Her unflagging curiosity about everything around her.
• She's a great cook.
• She's not afraid of speaking out even if it means going against the majority.
• How she questions things most people take for granted.
• She's not afraid of goofy fun.
• Her writing is from the heart. She may claim she's not a writer, but her blog entries have made me laugh out loud and also teary-eyed.
• Her positive attitude and humor through experiences many other people would be constantly whining about and using as a crutch. Instead, these experiences seem just to make her stronger.
• The way she helps friends find cool opportunities.
• She doesn't mince words, especially when she's pissed off about something. You always know where you stand with her. No mindgames, no emotional manipulation.
• She's a great listening ear, sympathetic but also objective. Doesn't let me get away with self-indulgent crap.
• She's intellectually and emotionally honest.
• She's gorgeous.
• She's a loyal friend and an amazing woman. I feel incredibly lucky to be her friend.
• She has what I believe to be the softest skin in the universe.
• She can dance
• She can sing too.. although she doesn't always get the lyrics right...
• She is extremely photogenic; she does not take a bad picture!
• Spending the day with her guarantees lots of laughter
• She never takes life for granted.
• She gets such a joy out of her family's joy.
• She looks comfortable and classy in anything, from a slinky formal dress to baggy sweatpants and a t-shirt.
• The fact that despite her crazy schedule, she still makes it a priority to find time for me.
• She could spend hours browsing the children's section of a bookstore.
• Her playfulness.
• The depth of caring she shows her friends and family.
• The fact that she loves me
• Her sweet face
• The fact that she let's the Dude sleep on the bed in the master bedroom when I'm not around.
• "You wanna snuggle one time some times?"
• "I love you a whole lot of bunches of oodles plus 2?"
• "You... you... you... wanna get meeearrrieeed?"
• Her family
• Her friends
• Her stories
• Her laugh
• Her love.
• Her commitment to God
• Her general outlook on life
• Her heart
• Her life
• Her warmth
• Two words: "Fri" "tata"
• How she's picked up MY own little language
• How she moves her hands when she talks
• The cute little dance she does when she thinks nobody is looking.....
• How God designed her specifically to mesh with me
• How God made her my wife (to be)
• How it doesn't matter how long we're apart, she'll write little cards for everyday that we're away from each other.
• The way she hugs me
• The way she kisses
• Her smell
• Her touch
• She does my laundry

I love every single thing about her. As the days get closer to our wedding, I started to realize that I'm just falling deeper and deeper in love with her. I can't wait until we are old and hardly functional, so that I could look back on my life and realize that I had the greatest life ever, and that people would have killed to have my life and to have what I have. To look back on my life and realize that there really is a God, and that he loves me and shows me daily how much he loves me by putting such an amazing, stunningly beautiful woman in my life.

That's my wife... my sweetest babe... my friend... my lover... and most importantly, the maker of my spaghetti. She's what I'm thankful for, not just today... not just this season... but everyday of my life.

And his heart grew three sizes that day...
SLIM

Christmas is 15 days away!

2010-12-10T08:12:00.000-08:00

Happy December 10th.

Can you believe how fast the time is going? For me it seems that it is going way too fast. I have so much to do for Be a Santa to a Senior that I can barely breathe... but at least it is something that I enjoy and know that it is making a difference!

Today I am super thankful for both of my brothers. I love having an older brother because growing up, I had someone to look up to, someone to follow their lead, and someone hang out with. I love having a younger brother because it was always fun to have someone to pal around with, and torment :).

As adult children, I really enjoy both of my brothers company. Greg is an amazing father and super hard worker. Jim is a great friend, hard worker and both are just a blast to hang out with.

I can't wait to see them next weekend, and again the following weekend.

Here is a picture of us from little Jimmy's wedding! Do you think we look alike? I have honestly heard both yes and no.

12.9

2010-12-09T14:26:00.000-08:00

Today was a fun but very long day. It was our office Christmas breakfast which was fabulous, and so I was up bright and early making some delicious goodies.

Superficial thankfulness is still thankfulness... right?

Well today I am thankful for wonderful people who make products for poor people like me. I have forever been a fan of Aveda Rosemary Mint Shampoo. It smells delicious and leaves your hair feeling especially clean.

A few months ago, while I was walking through Target, I spotted something that I had to try. Suave, yes Suave has made their own version of the Rosemary Mint (compare to Aveda). OH MY GOSH! Every time I use it I am so excited because the two bottles together cost me less than $3.50. Now it is not 100% as good as the original, but it is one tenth of the cost and I would say it is about 95% the same!!!

So hooray for refreshing showers, and hip hip hooray for saving money!

Piggy Backing

2010-12-08T10:47:00.000-08:00

To piggy-back on my last post, today on December 8th, I am so so so thankful for my amazing job! People probably say it all the time how grateful they are to have work and to be able to do something they enjoy, but I truly truly mean it!

I would have never imagined myself doing the job I do. I always thought, since forever that I would be a stay at home mom, who maybe taught every now and again. Never in my wildest dreams would I have thought that I would be working with seniors, managing CAREGivers, or running an office... but I love it!

This week I have had to have some tough meetings. Meetings where Home Instead almost had to part ways with CAREGivers, and even though the meetings were hard, they made me so thankful for what I do. I work for people who truly care, they care not just about their office staff, but about the 200 or so clients we take care of, and about the 200 CAREGivers to whom we provide employment. The Bidwells would seriously give the shirts off their backs to make life easier for someone else, and that is simply refreshing.

Every morning I wake up and get to work with these lovely people. Man how the group has grown over the last few years. When I started my job in 2006, there were about 8 office staff between our two offices, and now look at this great bunch!

God is so good!

December 7th, 2010

2010-12-07T06:15:00.000-08:00

Every year this blog is busting at it's seams during the months of November and December with tales of Christmas gifts for sweet seniors. This year, with my non-blogging self, you have been spared the long stories of all I do during the holiday season.

More than ever, the Naples community has risen to the occasion of helping some of their own. Yesterday, I sat with my amazing boss and went through about 500 gifts and I have to tell you that I am never not amazed at the awesome generosity of people.

We were opening gifts and each time calling the other to 'look at this' or 'oh my gosh, check this out' while bundles of presents bounded from the wrappings.

So today, I am thankful for all of you. All of you who see the importance of caring for someone who may have less, who may not have a visit from a friend or family member, and who may have lost the hope of something or Someone much greater!

As I am typing this, we just got a call from a women who last year donated homemade quilts for seniors who may not have gotten a gift. She will be dropping some off today. It is just overwhelming and amazing.

So Merry Merry Merry Christmas from us at Home Instead Senior Care and THANK YOU from the bottom of our hearts-

Be a blessing to a senior- someone from the greatest generation! Share a smile, a gift, a hug!

*And that is a pretty amazing looking Mimi Claus if you ask me!

December 6th.

2010-12-06T13:55:00.000-08:00

Today I am thankful for my dear old friends. I have some great ones.

Ones who I have been friends with for much more than half my life. I think of Gidget and Erin and all the crazy times we spent together during my teenage years. I think of sweet Jenny and can't believe that she is going to be a mom of 3 by next summer. Times just fly by.

I have some awesome college friends. I think of Heather and Jake, who I adore. I think of the the Hams(Jessica, Heidi, Sarah, Lacey, Joette, Winebrenner, and Jenn) and all their shenanigans. I think of so so so many people who made my times at Houghton some of the best in my life. A happiest birthday to dear Jenn Bullock. If you aren't friends with her, it is because you haven't met her yet. The girl is amazing and probably the best at keeping in touch of anyone I have ever met.

I made some great friends during my short stay in Long Island. I think of Mishy and her fun spirit. I think of Judy and how she has 3 boys under 2. It is amazing!

I think of all the wonderful people that God has brought into my path here in Naples. I couldn't even begin to tell all of the people who come to mind. If you are reading this... then that means you!

But on this December 6th, not only am I super thankful for the people and friends that God has blessed me with over the last 30 years of my life, but I am especially thankful for my darling best girl friend, Carly Jones. Carly has seen me through some of the greatest and worst times in my life. Even though we live thousands of miles away, she always has the right words and thoughts to keep me in line, or just the ear to listen when I need to vent. She will be bringing her second little sweet girl into the world in the next month I can't wait to meet little Maggie Bell!

Car, I love you and am so thankful for you!

The fifth

2010-12-05T07:13:00.000-08:00

Today is December 5th. 20 days until Christmas, and I am definitely not running out of things to be thankful for. God is truly good, and despite our circumstances, He is constant and supreme.

Last night I sat in the studio with Slim and Matt and listened to another cut of the Fellowbliss album. Over the last year I have probably spent about 30 to 40 hours in that room, but last night I was reminded of how thankful I am for that crazy band. I cannot believe that it has been two years of music, touring, and fun shared with some of the greatest people. I love that Slim gets to pursue his music and gets to do it alongside such rad friends.

So on December 5th, I am thankful for the '5' members of Fellowbliss. Five is in quotation marks because as of last week, it was announced that Magic Mike would have to be stepping away from the band to focus on work and his family. In my eyes, he will always be a member, thus the 5.

Sheena Jubilee is a crazy fun friend with an amazing voice. Mr. Matty A, aka my son, is a blast to hang out with, and is such a great drummer. C-Bear, the newest member and youngest member, has such a great heart and passion for people, plus he does a crazy cool bass spin. And of course the one and only Slim, who is by far the best guitar player I have ever heard- yes I am biased, but it is true.

If you have never heard the band, check out their newest music video.

Happy Sunday, friends!

The 4th of December

2010-12-04T11:13:00.000-08:00

I am kind of in a funk today. I am watching Giada's Family Christmas, and it is making me feel all mushy inside. So far she has made Strifuli- honey cookies, as well as Polenta- two of my most favorite family dishes! I just love how food can remind you of family and people you love.

Speaking of people you love, for those of you who don't know, I spent the week before Thanksgiving out in Colorado Springs. I got to spend such great quality time with family. Today I am super thankful for three blessings. Three incredible children who since the day I met each of them, they have been one of the biggest joys of my life. I honestly don't think that I could love them any more.

Brayden is now 6 and is such the first child. He is the leader yet loves to have that one on one time without the others around. Davis who is 5 is of course not ours by natural birth, but couldn't fit better into our family. He is a sweet spirit who loves pretty much everyone who he comes in contact with. And of course sweet 4 year old Grace. She reminds me a little bit of a Sour Patch Kid-- haha. She is sassy and sweet and everyone loves her. The girl knows just what she wants and will fight hard for her cause. I just love that about her.

I can't wait to see them in about 13 'dark naps' as Gracie calls them... and to be able to spend Christmas with those lovies.

The 3rd!!!

2010-12-03T08:38:00.000-08:00

Carly is asking for a few shallow things thrown in... so today she is getting her wish!

I have to be honest with you. The last week has been so rough. The weather is getting cooler, which I am so not complaining about. We don't have a heater (not that my sweet hubs would let me use it anyhow) and so each morning, as I roll over to turn off my alarm, I am stunned by the frigid air that haunts my body. Nothing in me wants to get out of the nice warm blankets. Well I shouldn't say nothing...

There is one thing. One thing that has kept me going all week. And today, at the end of this work week, I am incredibly thankful that my darling boss blessed us with the a Keuring and the Green Mountain Holiday Coffee.

This week I have had all of the tasty flavors, and if you ever read this blog- the two of you who do, would know that I love the Gingerbread coffee with the Italian Sweet Cream creamer. OMG. It is delish!

So I raise my glass of Holiday Blend and toast you today. Praise God that in about 4 short hours I am celebrating the weekend!

12.2

2010-12-02T05:53:00.000-08:00

October, November, and December are my absolute favorite months. There are many reasons why, but one thing that I am truly grateful for is that I live close to my sweet parents.

In 2003, when I was trying to figure out what I wanted to do with my life; where I wanted to move; where I wanted to work- I knew that it had to be pretty darn close to my family. I knew that they would be moving to Orlando within the next couple of years, so SW Florida seemed like a pretty darn good place for me.

We only live 3 hours from them, so Slim and I get to be with them pretty much whenever we want. It is fantastic. The truth is that we don't even have to be doing anything special- many times the entire day will go by, and I won't even get out of my pajamas and robe.

Jan and Bernie McElheny are constant reminders of God's grace and love. They truly adore their children. They want the best for us, and even though sometimes we don't do things just as they would, they support and pray regardless.

So on this second day of December, I am twice as thanful for these two lovebirds. (almost like two turtledoves :) )

Roses in December...

2010-12-01T06:54:00.000-08:00

Life is hard, isn't it? Times are different for my family... different than they have ever been. I am not going to go into details, but I decided to move on from the stress and discontent, and look to gratefulness.

For the next 25 days, I am going to blog each day about something that I am grateful for this December. There will be no particular order to this- each I am equally thankful to have

"God gave us memories so that we might have roses in December."
James Matthew Barrie

So today is December 1-

Have you met my husband? Slim Gillian is the craziest yet most amazing person that I have ever known. I have had countless people tell me that they wouldn't have put us together in a million years and to be honest I have even thought the same thing myself.
I work a desk job and wear professional clothes. He has piercings on his face, is covered in tattoos, and plays in a rock band. Things like this just simply don't usually make a good match. But our God has a great sense of humor, and knows just what we need. Slim calms me when I stress and helps me to loosen up a bit. I help him stay focused and try to keep him organized.

Through these last rough few months, Slim has been so constant and encouraging. His love and support has been overwhelming and amazing, and I know that I wouldn't be the same person without him.

I love you, babe- Thank you for all you are to me and to so many. I am so blessed to walk this journey alongside you!

Melinda and Amir

2010-10-07T06:28:00.000-07:00

In a few short hours, I will board a plane to Chicago to celebrate the wedding of my cousin, Melinda. Melinda (or Mindy, or Majinja- depending on who you are speaking to) was more than a cousin to my brothers and me... Because she was an only child, she got to come for weeks at a time during the summer. We would stay up late chatting, play in the pool all day, make bracelets, watch movies, and just hang out! Those summers with Melinda are some of the best memories from when we were kids. Check out our great hairstyles!!!

One thing that I adore about Melinda, is her love for family. She always makes time to spend with us. She treats my parents like they are hers, and she loves my niece and nephews probably as much as I do! Melinda is going to make an incredible wife because she understands the commitment that it takes to make marriages work.

As anyone who is married knows, sometimes things are tough. Life is not always fair and selfishness cannot be an option. Love is about give and take; it is about trust and communication; it is about putting your spouse before your own interests.

I love you Melinda, and I love you Amir. Cheers to a lifetime of happiness, joy, and laughter! (and a bunch of cute kids along the way)

My dear friend!

2010-08-11T05:38:00.000-07:00

Have you ever had a friend that seems to make life just that much better? That one friend who knows just what to say when you are having an awful day. The person you call when everything else in this world seems to be crumbling... that is Carly for me.

God knows our every need and He provided the best girl friend that I could have ever needed. Even though she lives 14 hours away, and we only get to see each other about every 4 months, our relationship will stand the test of time.

Today is her birthday, and even though I know she wishes that she was turning 23, the maturity and growth that has happened over these last 9 years, she wouldn't trade for anything.

She finds out today what her second little love with be- boy or girl... actually probably right as I am typing this. No matter girl or boy, that sweet child will be blessed to call you mom, Kevin: dad, and Libby: sissy!

I love you, Car, and I am so thankful for you!

30th Birthday Wishlist

2010-08-02T15:59:00.000-07:00

I know my birthday is still 3 months away, but I have been thinking about the things that I might like to have when that day comes...

I have never owned a pair of actual Chuck Taylors, so since I am turning the big 30, I figured now was the time. I can't wait to rock these suckers.... What color do u think I should get?


Tom's shoes have been one of those things that I have loved for a really long time, but have yet to purchase. If for some reason that you have been living under a rock and don't know about Tom's... they are an awesome humanitarian effort to provide shoes for children who need them. It is their one for one program. I adore what they are doing, and have wanted to be a part of it, but in the past I haven't been able to because of my crazy feet. Why are they crazy you might ask... if you are asking, then you have yet to see them ;). Anyhow... these would work, and feel free to purchase them here. I wear an 8.5/9...

As you know, I have been working on a getting myself a habit. I decided that I am going to start sewing. My mom of course is a great seamstress, and I would really like to learn too! I would like the above machine, because the reviews say that it is easy for beginners, but it is also a good quality machine!

That is all I have for now... if you have any suggestions for me, please let me know!!!!

Happy 30th Birthday

2010-07-29T10:28:00.000-07:00

to this lovely lady! Jessica Terry Burke and I have known each other for about 15 years now, and we were fast friends and have stayed close over many miles and stages of our lives. I wish I could be with her today to celebrate 30 years of her.

If I was there, we would have coffee, go to some delicious bakery, have a healthy lunch, and then a huge delicious cake! It would be amazing.

Jess, I love you and hope that today is the start of the best years of your life. You are a doll face, and I am so thankful to have you in my life!

Some Brant Lake Pictures

2010-07-27T09:23:00.000-07:00

We did some awesome things...

We celebrated Sharon's bday!!!

We had campfire sing-alongs!!!

We went to a chicken BBQ!!!

We swam in the lake!!!

We went to a cute carnival!!!

We played games!!!

We played BINGO!!!

We had a wonderful time. I have plenty more pictures to upload, but I wanted you to know that we are back- safe and sound and enjoyed every minute!!!

Brant Lake, NY

2010-07-16T10:40:00.000-07:00

I will be heading out to Brant Lake this week to spend a few days on 'business' with the full-time staff at my office.

Brant Lake is a small lake in the Adirondack Mountains, and it is pretty much a piece of Heaven on Earth. I have spent a few weeks there in the past, and I just cannot wait to sit on the Adirondack chairs on the wrap around porch, book and coffee in hand. Oh just thinking about it makes me fuzzy inside.

The weather last year was frigid, but this year it is supposed to be perfect. Highs around 80 and lows in the 50s... what more could you ask for really?

Stay tuned for fun pics of the ~~vaca~~ I mean business trip :)

I can't believe he is turing 5!!!

2010-07-08T06:07:00.000-07:00

On Saturday, July 10th, this adorable little man will be turning 5 years old... 5, can you believe it?!?!? I cannot believe that Brayden is already 6, Davis is turning 5, and Gracie is 4. The time has just flown by! Even though it has only been almost 3 years since Davis came into our lives, he has been the perfect match for our sweet family. Even though we weren't there 5 years ago when he was born, he was birthed in our hearts and has grown into the sweetest young man and I honestly cannot imagine our lives without him.

The joy that smile brings is nothing short of contagious and every person he hangs around wants to scoop him up and take him home with him.

G. Davis McElheny,

Uncle Slim and I are crazy about you! We miss you and wish we could celebrate with you on Saturday! Play hard and have a blast. HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

We love you, sweet boy!

My amazing nephew

2010-06-23T09:24:00.000-07:00

This child is awesome! Yesterday was his 6th birthday, and being that he is my oldest nephew, he has always held a special place in my heart! The kids is clever, cute, sweet, gentle, and overall amazing!

Yesterday when he received a birthday card in the mail that held $50, he decided that he wanted to use the money to donate to Children's Hope Chest. At first he thought that he would give 40 of the dollars to feed children in Africa, and the other 10, he would use to buy himself a remote control car.

I spoke to him when he was on the way to drop the money off at Hope Chest, and he said "Do you want to know how many children I can feed? 163!!!" He was so excited!

When he got there, he decided that he wanted to give all the money instead of keeping any for himself. How wonderful is that?!?! Brandi, my sister-in-law told him that they were well on their way to feed one child for an entire year. He was so excited about that... he even asked Brandi to 'tweet and ask other people to help'. Adorable.

Currently in the Brayden's birthday fund there is $199.75 which is enough to feed 799 meals! If you would like to participate in my nephew's charity, go to http://www.hopechest.org/ and click give. In the notes section write "Brayden's bday / Africa food" They'll give me an update or you can email my sister-in-law at brandi@hopechest.org and tell me how many meals so that I can share with Brayden. (one meal is $0.25)

Bray,

Aunt Laura and Uncle Slim are so proud of the man you are becoming! We want to be just like you when we grow up! Keep up the awesome work! We love you!!!

The end of an era

2010-06-17T19:15:00.000-07:00

When I first moved to SW Florida, I started meeting with a great group of girls. One of our first small groups consisted of Carly, Kate, Mel, Abby, and me. I learned so much from each of these ladies over the past 7 years. They have been people I have turned to for prayer, encouragement, and comfort. They have each brought me so much love and joy and I am eternally grateful!

Kate was the first to leave in 2005 when she left and married her true love! She is one of those people who is the best friend to u even when you may not talk for months on end. She sends the nicest letters and always is a blessing. I always say that when I grow up I want to be as good of a friend as she is!!!!

As you all know, it has been 2years since the bff Carly moved with her doll baby in her belly and her hubs by her side. There isn't a day that goes by when I don't miss her! If u didn't know, she is expecting baby 2 right around New Years.

Tonight I went to a going away party for my darling Mel!!! She and her husband Mike are moving to Northern Cali to commit full time to running a Christian camp! This is a perfect job for their adorable family of 4... But that doesn't mean I won't miss them like crazy!

So Abby and I are left here... Abs, I sure hope u stick around for a while!

We're Moving

2010-06-07T10:07:00.000-07:00

HOORAY!

Slim and I will be moving into this lovely house at the end of this month!

For more of an idea of the inside of the house, here is the layout

These are pictures from another house's main space. Ours is just like this but flipped around.

Rocking Out with this Crew Tonight..

2010-05-12T11:54:00.000-07:00

Slim and Fellowbliss have been away for a mini-tour with SRT throughout central and northern Florida. Today, Amber and I will be joining them for their show tonight in Bradenton, Fl! I CAN'T WAIT.

If you are interested in learning more about SRT, check this out!

Oh how time flies

2010-05-11T10:36:00.000-07:00

This past weekend, I had the opportunity to visit one of the best friends anyone could ever have. Jess was one of my college roommates, and we lived together in Long Island before I moved to Naples.

Her sister Kim was graduating from Palm Beach Atlantic University on Saturday, and so I decided that I would drive over to spend the day with them.

It was so much fun! She is now a mom and we realized that it had been exactly 5 years to the day that we had seen each other. That was way too long. More pics will come from our weekend together, but here is a lovely picture of her that I stole from her facebook page.

Jess. I promise that we aren't going to wait 3 more years until Britt graduates before we see each other again! I love ya!

Flat "Brayden" visited us this week

2010-04-14T09:29:00.001-07:00

Sometimes I really miss being a teacher. I was so excited when I heard that my nephew's kindergarten class was doing the "Flat Stanley" project. Flat Stanley visit My parents, Brandi's parents, and then came to visit us.

This is the letter that I am sending back with Flat Stanley about his time here in Naples:

Dear Friends and Classmates,
You would not believe the adventure that I have had with Uncle Slim and Aunt Laura. I have been with them since Saturday, and during that time, we have visited so many places in South West Florida! Have you ever heard of the Gulf of Mexico? That is where they live! I thought that when we visited the beach, we were actually going to the ocean, but instead, it was the Gulf of Mexico. The west coast of Florida beach meets up with a body of water that divides Florida from Texas. Wow was it beautiful!!!

On Saturday afternoon, Uncle Slim’s band, Fellowbliss, was playing at an event in Cape Coral, Florida. A cape is a piece of land that goes out into the water past the rest of the land. Of course Cape Coral goes out into the Gulf of Mexico. We had to take a bridge there, but I wasn’t scared. It was actually so cool! The band did a great job, but it was way too hot for picture taking, and I was too busy signing autographs. While I was there, the band invited me to come with them to their music video shoot on Tuesday. I had never been to a video shoot, so of course I said yes.
Not knowing what to expect, I made sure to bring my brief case along! The first part of the shoot was at a place called Allied Recycling. This place was so amazing!!! They take old trucks and any kind of machinery and smash it down to reuse it again… that way they don’t have all that metal hanging around our dumps and junk yards. When we got there, the recycling plant had actually just made a huge sale of $200,000 worth of used metal, and so the owners said that because so many people would be working to transport all that metal, it was not a safe place for the band to film.

We moved on to a warehouse in Fort Myers, Fl and that is where I got to star in the music video. Uncle Slim let me hang out with him and the band, and he even let me play his guitar! Wow, it was AWESOME! The band took some pictures with me after, and it was so cool.

I can’t wait to get back to see you in Colorado Springs, but I sure am going to miss Uncle Slim and Aunt Laura. I have had a lot of fun with them!

Your friend,

Flat Stanley (As you can see I have been practicing my autograph)

I have another sister!

2010-03-15T07:13:00.001-07:00

On March 5th, we welcomed Rachel to the McElheny family.

It was a brisk but sunny day on a golf course in Harmony, Fl when Little Jimmy married his one true love, Rachel! The ceremony was beautiful, the reception, a blast, and the cookies... oh the cookies were delicious!

Rachel,
Thank you for always loving and honoring our Jimmy. We look forward to many years for family fun together. Here's to a lifetime of happiness and lots of little kids running around your feet!

Love you both!

These two...

2010-03-01T06:44:00.001-08:00

...are coming to visit on March 17th-24th. Be jealous, be very jealous! I can't wait!

Some people that I am missing...

2010-02-18T10:30:00.000-08:00

Carly Jo Jones:

Gosh I could write a novel about how much I truly miss this person. She is the best friend anyone could ask for. Carly knows me and knows when to tell me that I am acting crazy! As you know, she moved to VA just before her sweet Liberty Rose was born, and though we don't see each other everyday like we used to, we do talk almost every day. I love her, and everything in me wishes that I could just go to Starbucks with her and talk to her for hours. I also would love to just shop with her. Since she left I haven't really had someone to 'just shop' with. Come back to visit us soon, Carly Jo!

Jessica Terry Burke:

It was on her blog that I got the idea to write about who I am missing. Jessica and I went to HS together from 10th-12th grade. We became instant friends from the time that I transferred to FHS. I adore her sweet family and miss her like crazy. We have made wonderful memories over the years, and I can't wait to make some more with her. She is a doll, a wonderful mother, amazing friend, and such an encouragement. I wish that I could just drive around Syracuse with her, coffee coolatta in hand, shooting the breeze and loving life!

Jessica Miller Jackson:

It has been almost 6 years since I have seen the lovely Jessica Miller Jackson, and gosh do I miss her! Jess and I have had our ups and downs in our relationship, but we always settle on the up and up! We lived together in college, and were inseparable, moved in together after college and taught together at Our Savior Lutheran school. Despite not seeing each other over the last 6 years, I still think of her daily and can't wait to see her again. She is an awesome mom, fun-loving spirit, and amazing dancer. Love you Jess! The above pic is from our college days, man we were so young!

Finally- The rest of the Ham House:

These loves were part of the best years of my life: college! We had a blast. We love to eat, dance, go on trips, and just be together. This pic was taken at Jess Jackson's wedding, so here are the rest of us hanging together. On the top: L to R. Lacey Jo Plymel Hoobler- Lacey is living in Nevada, married to her bullfrog, working part-time at Gap and going for her Master's in education. Joette Richardson Kelleher lives in NY, teaches English and is crazy in love with her husband Patrick. Jenn Carl Bullock aka MamaB. She is a stay at home mom blogger who will have her second little girl in March. She lives in Charlotte, NC. Sarah Marie Moore Marquart is another English teacher who lives with her hubby near Syracuse. She has an adorable 9 month old named Owen. Bottom Row R-L Jessica Winebrenner is a paralegal from Raleigh, NC who is single and loving life. I love catching up with her and being able to see when I am passing through or every few years at weddings. I adore her! Heidi Martinez Hanes is a mom of 3 boys with her 4th child on the way. She married Ryan right when we graduated college and has been teaching school and making babies ever since- pretty much missing from our lives, but we recently reconnected through Facebook! Last is me of course!

New things in our lives

2010-02-09T11:55:00.000-08:00

Slim has become a spokesperson for the Special Olympics! Crazy, I know, but so amazing. We will be helping with a lot of events that will be in the South West Florida area. I am super excited and cannot wait to see how God uses us.

We have recently become super-convicted about our nonchalant use of the 'r' word.

Check out some of these ads for the Special Olympics.

Pretty heavy huh?

What can you do to help? Well, you can take the pledge to end the 'r' word! Click on the badge below and you can learn a lot more about putting an end to this term.

Fun with the Silver Ring Thing Crew

2010-01-25T05:36:00.000-08:00

This past week, SRT was in town, and we totally had a blast with them. If you are unaware, Silver Ring Thing is a traveling event that speaks to youth about the affects of pre-marital sex and encourages them to 'date and wait'. It is the purity event that I have ever seen... so check out their website www.silverringthing.com and see when they are coming to your neck of the woods.

This picture is of Jubilee performing at SRT. The band gets to catch up with them when they are in the south east. We love being together!

We also had a great day on Saturday at Amber and Mikes. We took the rangers and buggy out and went exploring. If you look closely at the picture, I am the head in the center on the top of the first vehicle. (Doesn't it look like an african safari?) By the way... that last pic was taken from an iPhone with no edits. Don't you wish you lived here?

10 Things 2010

2010-01-13T09:11:00.000-08:00

1. The television shows that have come back since Christmas. I love Heroes, The Bachelor, American Idol, and on Thursday starts the next season of Project Runway... ahh it is just great

2. Losing Weight. I have lost over 20 lbs in the past 4 months. Trust me, if you want something that works... Weight Watchers is the way to go!

3. Food Should Taste Good Chips.
Oh my gosh... they are to die for! Healthy, delicious, and nutritious! 3 points for 13 chips.

4. The amount of time that I have been able to spend with my family lately. We have been up there more in the last few months than we have in a long time. It is great being together, and I can't wait until Jimmy and Rachel's wedding.

5. Silver Ring Thing being back in SW Florida. There will be three tour dates next week. Jubilee will be playing all three. Be there!

6. Long shirts and leggings.
I guess that I am stuck in the 80s, but I would dress like this every day!

7. Grapefruit!
It has been my breakfast every morning, so delicious and high in vitamin C.

8. Record low temps in Florida!
We even had snow. It has been in the 30s and 40s, and I loved every minute of it. Tomorrow is supposed to be warm again, but it was so nice while it lasted!

9. Gingerbread K-cup coffee.
It is coming to a close, but the delicious gingerbread was my favorite through the holiday season. It is the absolute best with Cinnamon Creme Creamer. MMMM

10. My new navy blue pom pom bathrobe.
Slim got me this for Christmas, and if I am at my house, it is on my body. I even sometimes sleep in it. (with the hood up) What can I say? It has been cold here!

What are you loving right now?

Three personal goals (as given me by my husand)

2010-01-12T06:23:00.000-08:00

This past weekend, Slim and I went on a mini-getaway to celebrate with Rachel as she turned 25. We surprised her as well as my parents who were arriving back from Colorado Springs.

On the way home, Slim and I really got to talk about a lot of things. We always seem to do this when we are driving back from my parent's house. We hash things out, cry a bit, dream a lot, and attempt to make plans.

Lately I have been feeling really down in the dumps. I am not sure why, but I have been struggling with anxiety, loneliness, and depression. I just haven't been myself. To be honest with you, since Carly and Kevin moved (a year and a half ago) I really don't feel like I do anything without Slim being a apart of it. I feel like I have no friends, I feel like I have no purpose, and I sometimes feel like I have no hope. The great thing is, as soon as I think those things, I can talk myself back around, but the thoughts are definitely there!

When we were driving, I was having one of my sad times, Slim really tried to help me snap out of it. He actually gave me three goals for the next 6 months. They are as follows. (Please note, these are goals and not New Year's resolutions)

1. Make some new friends, or at least hang out with my old ones.
It is amazing that when you are depressed and down, you feel like everyone is against you. I can convince myself that I have no friends, because people don't call or text back. I know people have lives, and I need to stop letting it bother me, and just keep being persistent and get out there and have a little fun. Haha.

2. Slim says that I need a hobby.
If you have known me very long, you will know that I think of myself as someone with not a lot of talent. I can do many things decently, but nothing stands out as something that I really love or am really good at. I have perfectionist qualities which make me not interested in trying something new, with the thought of not being good at it. Silly I know... but it is just how I am. So all that to say, is help me find a hobby. I would appreciate any and all suggestions!

3. Get pregnant.
It is time to make this happen. That is all I am going to say about that!

Well those are my goals that will hopefully be accomplished by the end of June.

Happy Birthday to my future sister...

2010-01-08T07:01:00.000-08:00

Rachel Hubble, soon to be Rachel McElheny, will be celebrating her 25th birthday tomorrow. She is such a doll and I am thrilled to have her in the life of my 'little' brother. (I have always called Jimmy my little brother. He actually goes by Jim, and he is about 5 inches taller than me... oh well, little Jimmy!)

One thing that I absolutely love about Rachel is the fact that she really keeps that guy in line! It is amazing to see how God works things out; Jim and Rachel are a perfect match for eachother and I am so excited that in less than 2 short months, she will be walking down the 'aisle' on a fairway in Harmony, Florida, and she will be becoming a McElheny.

Happy Quarter of a Century, sister! Slim and I love you!

I promise to be better...

2010-01-06T08:14:00.000-08:00

Christmas was wonderful at my parents house. We had the best time just relaxing together as family and spending time together before 2010 hit.

Greg, Brandi, and the kids made the big move to Colorado Springs and it is going to be really tough on the family. Luckily they will be back for Jim and Rachel's wedding at the beginning of March! I am already counting down the days until I can hug those cuties again!

My resolution for 2010 is to be a better blogger. I promise that I am going to work on it.

God's blessings to you and your family!

Time In

2009-12-03T07:18:00.000-08:00

Be A Santa To A Senior is doing so well!!! Gifts are streaming in, and I just love every part of it.

The past few weeks have been so nice. Carly came to visit. I got to spend an entire week with my family, and I even get to go back this weekend to celebrate the shower of my future sister-in-law.

This post is mainly for Carly because she has been bugging me to post.

My darling friend Mel gave me a book that her friend had written. It is called Found Art. I definitely reccomend it and think that it is one of those things that you will want to read and pass along.

Check it out, you will love it!

This blog has taken a time out

2009-11-06T07:35:00.000-08:00

here's why...

YEP... it is that time of year again!

So so so sorry

2009-10-13T12:32:00.000-07:00

My life has been so boring over this last month.

Here is what I am doing...

1. Wishing for anything and all things fall! I am trying to pretend that I need big puffy vests, boots, and scarves, but really all I need is a swimsuit.

2. Losing weight! Sharon and I have been doing Weight Watchers since the 16th of September. At my 3 week weigh-in I had lost a total of 6 lbs. We will see how tomorrow goes.

3. Getting ready to Be A Santa To A Senior. www.beasantatoasenior.com Watch the promo video to find out more about it.

4. Preparing for a visit from my darling friend Car and her sweet Libs

5. Missing family and friends everywhere! I always get this way in the fall, because all I want to do is take a walk in the brisk weather, with hot apple cider, and see the gorgeous leaves.

What have you been doing?

Here is a short version of what I have been loving right now...

1. Pink Grapefruit Tic Tacs... I always have them with me, and I am in love with their zesty flavor and they're less than 2 calories per mint!

2. Pumpkin Spice Coffee with cinnamon creamer. Straight pumpkin pie, folks!

3. Apple Jacks with added fiber (1 serving 1 point, baby)

An unexpected teacher.

2009-09-11T08:59:00.000-07:00

As I sit at my office desk crying, I just had to share this with you... (borrowed from Tom Davis' blog)

September 11, 2009
An Orphan's Faith
We have a great team in Uganda right now, led by Greg McElheny and Vince Giordano. I just received an email from one of our team members, Ben Savage, from Cincinnati Ohio. I had to share it with you. Please join me in prayer for this team as they visit carepoints throughout the Teso Region over the next few days. I hope to update you with more stories as they come to me.

"Today I walked into a world unlike any other that I have experienced.
I arrived two days ago with a team from Children’s HopeChest to visit
orphan communities in the hopes of creating connections between our
world of plenty and their world of want. As we drove through the
towns, I witnessed a bizarre mixture of beauty, despair and hope. The
landscape was truly astounding. There were many imaginative and
hardworking people who had used what little resources that could
muster to create businesses that were showing signs of success. The
next sight I would see would be a child naked, in a ramshackle mud hut
with no one to care for them.

In this strange stew of images we pulled into Rapha Community School,
a community that is sponsored by a church in Florida through
Children’s HopeChest. We were greeted by 150 children in white shirts
and orange smocks. The children were not exactly what I expected.
True, their situation was more dire than any I’ve seen, but the
children shone like the sun. Their smiles were bright and filled with
pride and dignity. The children greeted us individually and thanked
us for coming. I only wish my children acted this respectfully.
After we toured the community, we were escorted to their schoolroom.
The room consisted of a small map of the world, a few old posters and
rough hewn benches.

The children sang a welcome to us. They danced and recited Gods words
to us. I was challenged and changed by all of this. And then there
was Sarah, who read Matthew 6 aloud. Sarah, who, from all earthly
perspectives should be disabled with despair for her future spoke of
faith. She is an orphan who has depended on God to deliver food,
shelter and all other earthly needs. She had suffered loss and pain
that people in my community would have spent countless dollars on
therapy to recover from, but today Sarah spoke to me of faith. She
read

“Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will
eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more
important than food, and the body more important than clothes? Look at
the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns,
and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more
valuable than they? Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to
his life?
"And why do you worry about clothes? See how the lilies of the field
grow. They do not labor or spin. Yet I tell you that not even Solomon
in all his splendor was dressed like one of these. If that is how God
clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is
thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you, O you of
little faith? So do not worry, saying, 'What shall we eat?' or 'What
shall we drink?' or 'What shall we wear?' For the pagans run after all
these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. But
seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things
will be given to you as well. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow,
for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of
its own.” Matthew 6:25-34

To hear a lovely child of God with a gleaming face recite those words
to me was the high point and most devastating moment for me. The
thought that Sarah, who has good reason to worry about tomorrow would
unassumingly speak those challenging words to us fairly contented and
well fed Americans destroyed me. That we worry more about the news
from Hollywood than the desperation found around the world was nothing
short of life changing. While our culture is so consumed with anxiety
and fear, here was little Sarah exemplifying faith and courage. She
read the words but I could see that she felt them too and that she
felt them deeply.

I have always loved that passage and thought about it as a cute
phrasing of my simple faith. But today I heard it as a life mantra
that was spoken from the core of this small framed girl. It was the
throwing down of the gauntlet. And the question that confronts me now
as I sit in my Ugandan hotel and Sarah sleeps in her mud hut is “What
will I do to respond?” I have been blessed - not so much that I am
rich in my own community necessarily, but I am insanely rich in a
global context. I have also been exposed to enough of the
difficulties that these communities face that I can no longer hide
behind ignorance. Do I truly believe that these children are more
valuable than my cable television? I am the “I want my MTV”
generation. As Africa burns I live in comfort and ease while I CAN
make a difference in the lives of others but will I choose to? What
sacrifice have I been willing to make to help fulfill God’s promise of
care to others? I will live differently from this day forward.
Have mercy on me God, though I truly don’t deserve it. I have for too
long ignored your call to love those who are broken and abused. Help
me capture and hold onto the conviction, sorrow, and joy reflected in
Sarah’s eyes today. And thank you for showing me a picture of your
heart through these broken but not forgotten children in Rapha. I am
devastated and changed. Thank you, sweet Lord."

ummm... I have problems

2009-09-08T12:46:00.001-07:00

I spelled journey wrong in the title of the previous post... wow

The jouney...

2009-08-28T07:31:00.001-07:00

I am not going to break into song about having another mountain to move, yada yada yada, but I do want to talk about the journey that I am on.

This morning while I was sitting on my counter in the bathroom with my Bible in one hand and hair dryer in the other, I came upon some great Scripture that was a perfect fit for how I have been feeling lately.

The past year has been tough, financially, emotionally, and spiritually. I feel like I am traveling down this path.
One thing that I love about Lombard Street is that it is not very long, but it sure is windy. The distance from start to finish would be so much shorter if we chose a direct path, but I do want you to take note of the glorious beauty along the way.

So much of me, a typical type A person, wants to just get to where I am going. Lately I have been forced to enjoy this crazy journey that I have been on.

It hasn't been easy... that's for sure, but here is the Scripture. I hope that it encourages you as much as it did for me.

Isaiah 35:3-10
Strengthen the feeble hands,
steady the knees that give way;
say to those with fearful hearts,
"Be strong, do not fear;
your God will come,
he will come with vengeance;
with divine retribution
he will come to save you."
Then will the eyes of the blind be opened
and the ears of the deaf unstopped.
The will the lame leap like a deer,
and the mute tongue will shout for joy.
Water will gush forth in the wilderness
and streams in the desert.
The burning sand will become a pool,
the thirsty ground bubbling springs.
In the haunts where jackals once lay,
grass and reeds and papyrus will grow.
And a highway will be there;
it will be called the Way of Holiness.
The unclean will not journey on it;
it will be for those who walk in that Way;
wicket fools will not go about on it.
No lion will be there
nor any ferocious beast get up on it;
they will not be found there.
But only the redeemed will walk there,
and the ransomed of the Lord will return.
They will enter Zion with singing;
everlasting joy will crown their heads.
Gladness and joy will overtake them,
and sorrow and sighing will flee away.

Sometimes in our lives, our journey is straight and smooth, other times are full of habitual sin, distance from God, or other difficulties that make our journey rocky and windy. We are all heading somewhere and the most important thing is Who is with us along the way.

I don't know where the long and winding road is leading you, but I do know this: if you remember passing Calvary, you are on the right road. - Patsy Clairmont

I have a problem

2009-08-20T07:49:00.001-07:00

... this is what it is. Delicious and way too addicting! Don't even try to stop me because I am never quitting this! HAHA

Happy Birthday to my very best...

2009-08-11T08:15:00.000-07:00

Carly Jo Jones. I love you like crazy! You are the best friend anyone could ask for and I am so glad that you get to be mine. I feel bad for people who don't know you, and honestly couldn't imagine my life without you in it!

You are an amazing mother, wife, and friend and I am so thankful that despite the fact that you life more than 14 hours away, we can still stay as close as we are.

Thank you for talking sense into me when I am being ridiculous, for standing by me when I need support, and for listening to me when I gripe!

I was so mad at God when he moved you and Kevin away from us, but I know that God has done amazing things in your life there in Ashland! I can't wait until November when we can see each other again, and pray that someday we can live close enough to grab coffee on a regular basis.

Have the best 21st birthday! ;)

I love you!

For Fun

2009-08-04T12:20:00.000-07:00

To tide you over

2009-07-31T06:14:00.000-07:00

Here is a picture that I had in my email because I sent it to Brandi. Once this crazy move is over, we will get a new power cord for the laptop and then we will be good to go on more pics.

This is Brayden and Grandma enjoying breakfast at Stella's.
Check out Bray's pancakes!

2009-07-27T09:52:00.000-07:00

There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under heaven- Ecclesiastes 3:1.

Times have been crazy. Life has been hard at times. The journey has been exciting.

I cannot believe that I haven't posted in a month. A lot has happened. First of which, sweet Maggie went to be with the Lord on July 5th. We were in Syracuse at the time and were able to celebrate her life with her church there, that morning, and again when we returned home to Fort Myers with our Summit church family. She was an amazing woman, wife, mother, and friend, and she will be truly missed. Continue to pray for Jordan and the kids as they mourn the loss of their dear one.

During this month, I have struggled with a lot of anxiety and stress. I am praying that this is just a season in my life and that I will be able to encourage others as I pass out of it. For I know that no weapon formed against me will prosper.

My computer that holds the pictures from our trip north is having a problem with the power cord, thus, this blog post will have no pictures.

Slim and I are in the process of moving to Naples, where I work. We have been working on this move all month but will be in there for sure on Friday. God is good and we will be saving almost $380 per month. Praise the Lord. Plus I will be about half the distance to work, which is also a HUGE blessing!

Once the move is over, you can be sure that this blog will be back to buzzing.

Thanks for bearing with me.

Blogs to come-

-Time with Heather and Jake

-Visit to the Zoo with Sarah and Joel

-Ice cream galore

-Relaxation at Brant Lake

-2 visits with Carly and Kev

We Interupt This Blog....

2009-07-22T06:14:00.000-07:00

...to tell you that a Mrs. Laura Beth Gillian is hear by put on blog probation for not updating in a really long. This probation comes from knowing that she has just returned home from a long vacation and has wagon loads :) of great pictures from said trip. If you join me in wishing that she would update, please leave her comments encouraging her to do so!
Sincerely,
Carly Jo Jones

I post this picture as a metaphor of what it is like to visit Laura's blog, you know, always wanting a bit more, like her face :) or a new post!

Thoughts from Jordan, Maggie's adoring husband!

2009-06-26T05:51:00.001-07:00

Jordan's thoughts from last night

Praying for Maggie

2009-06-25T03:56:00.000-07:00

Maggie Stinziano, wife of Jordan, and young mother of Sophie, Jack, Jonas, and Owen is very close to meeting her sweet Savior.

Maggie has battled cancer for the past three years, and her days, maybe even her hours are running short.

Since the time that she was diagnosed, she stood strong in the belief that God's grace is sufficient for her, and that His mercies are new every morning. She has been the most wonderful reflection of God's heart to all she has come in contact with, or who have heard her story.

As she is drawing close to our Lord, please pray for an extra level of strength and comfort for her body, because in the last update that I heard, she was really overwhelmed with pain. Please pray that God would continue to wrap Jordan in His arms of love. Please pray that Sophie, Jack, Jonas, and Owen will know the legacy that their mom is leaving behind, and remember the amazing love she had for everyone especially them.

Mags, we are so excited for you to be healthy, strong, and to dance on those golden streets, but are so sad for us that you are leaving. You are loved!

Things I am excited to introduce to Slim

2009-06-24T12:09:00.000-07:00

So as you may or may not know, Slim and I get to go on vacation with my family, to Syracuse next week. I grew up there, but my Sweet Babe has never been.

Here are some things that he will get to experience for the very first time, while we are there. Now bear with me, because most of it is food, but that is pretty much the best part of the crazy city.

First...

A coney from Heid's Hot dogs. Well, Slim has had a coney cooked at home, but never at Heid's. They serve Hoffman's hot dogs and coneys, and I would bet my life on the fact that they are the best in the entire universe.

Next...
These delicious headlight donuts. Well actually pretty much anything that you can get at a real bakery... whether it be these

or these

or these
which by the way are not called 'black and white cookies' rather 'half moon cookies'

I am also excited to bring him to Missio Church to see our darling friends who moved up there to start a branch of Summit Church in my home town.

I am going to also bring him here...

For those of you who think that Publix is the best Supermarket, you obviously have never been to Wegman's. That's all I have to say about that.

Here are some other things that we are going to do during our journey-
-Have dinner with the Joneses
-Stay at the Maple Tree Inn, my uncle's hotel
-Visit with Sarah, Joel, and Owen
-Go to a family reunion
-Visit Heather, Jake, Sydney, and Nathan
-Go to Brant Lake for the weekend
-Visit with Jess Winebrenner on the way home.

By the way, I need vacation more than you could know!

Contest to win some amazing art.

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

Go here to find out all the details. While you are there, support my darling friend Ashley Danielle!

Parties and Aprons and Beads, oh my!

2009-06-03T08:10:00.000-07:00

Brittani is hosting the first ever apron party, next Thursday in Orlando.

If you live in Orlando and you want to go, hit me up and let me know, and I can get you directions. If you live too far but are interested in aprons or beads that will benefit the people of Uganda 100%, please let me know and I will be able to place your order and bring you back some of these wondeful delights!

Also if you want to host your own Apron's For Africa party, please visit the Apron's blog and let my mom know.

Some New Aprons that you might not be able to live without...

2009-05-28T06:27:00.000-07:00

A little girl apron

Butterflies and Strawberries

For the Cat Lover

Brown and aqua

For the cow lover

Tutti Fruiti mommy and me set

Country Roosters

Some Red Flowers

Brown with aqua pattern

Traditional black and white

Paisley

For the pig lover

All aprons are custom made, so if you are interested, hope over to www.apronsforafrica.blogspot.com to find out how to order yours today!

Sarah has a blog

2009-05-27T16:21:00.000-07:00

One of my best friends, Sarah and her husband Joel just had a new little one.

Check out her new blog, and leave her some love!

Click here

Truth for you today

2009-05-22T07:06:00.000-07:00

Today is April Rose's due date...

2009-05-20T09:45:00.000-07:00

Please click on the link over at the side to visit April Rose's blog today.

People are sending in messages to "hope in pink" for April's due date.

Encourage them, pray for them, and wear pink for them!

Uganda Beads...

2009-05-16T13:41:00.000-07:00

Ugandan women colorful recycled paper into beautiful bead jewelry, and people who care open their hearts, and buy them. This offers these women opportunity to make a living by paper, a cheap commodity and turning it into a way to provide for their family! I love it!

You are one of those people who care, aren't you!?!?!? Do you want some? I know you do!

Look at these...

Check out these cute models...

All necklaces $10 + $2.50 shipping (for 1) or $3 (for 2), $5 (up to 10), $8 (10+)

If you are interested, please visit Brandi's blog and order some.

I have a multicolored strand, and it matches everything. I wear it all the time, and always get comments on it! So what are you waiting for... go over there and order some beads!

A bunch of words and a lot more thoughts!

2009-05-05T07:07:00.000-07:00

1. Has anyone seen or heard from my friend, Kari Colson? She moved to NC in the summer, and we were in contact until mid-September. The next time that I called her, her phone wasn't receiving calls, and then her number was changed. I have emailed everyone I know who knows her... have tried to contact her family members, etc. but no luck. I am just putting this out there, so in case someone knows a way to get in touch with her, they can let me know.

2. I have debating on whether or not to write about my struggles with conceiving a baby because of the fact that I have had many people tell me that it is a private issue that shouldn't be spread about. I have to say though, that I really feel like I need to share my story, because then you, the readers, can pray for Slim and me, and maybe I can be an encouragement to you as well... so here goes.

Slim and I have been married since September '07.
Because I knew that I had some previous issues, we decided that we were going to try to have children right away. After about 6 months of trying, I saw my gynecologist and he put me on a medicine to regulate my cycles. Well it didn't work the first time (which he had never seen) so he had me take the medicine for another round. It didn't work that time either. He had me come into the office and let me know that he had no answers for me as to why it didn't start a cycle for me. He told me that he couldn't help me any further but recommended that I see a fertility specialist.

In the summer of '08, Slim and I had our first appointment with the fertility doctor. I was excited to find out what they had in store for us. Sadly the time there was cut short when we found out how expensive it would be to have Slim go through the process along side of me. We prayed about it, and decided that we would keep trying on our own because we know that it is totally in God's hands and He can and does work miracles. We tried on our own for the next 6 months, and then I had another gynecologist appointment. At this appointment, my doctor told me that he would let me try a few months of Clomid(a drug to help induce and strengthen ovulation). I am on month 3 of Clomid now and still no babies.

Here are some things that I have learned over the past 20 or so months.

A. People say weird things because they don't know what else to say:
During this time I have had many people say things like
"It will happen when you stop thinking about it." Let me just say that stopping thinking about it is impossible. If you have ever dealt with fertility, you know that not thinking about it doesn't ever happen. You think about it constantly. You think that you are broken. You ache for babies. You feel like everyone besides you is pregnant, etc.
"I found out I was pregnant and I am so mad." I have actually had someone, who knows me well, and has known that I have been trying to get pregnant say this to me. I am sure that she meant no harm, but I still wanted to scream at her. I am not mad at people when they are blessed by being pregnant (I have heard other ladies say that anytime someone else gets pregnant they get jealous and mad) I don't get that way, but if you tell me that you are upset you are pregnant, then I might get mad.
"It will happen when God wants it to." DUH, I am not stupid, but that doesn't mean that patience is easy.
"Can I speak frankly to you? You are pregnant!" I had to go to the emergency room at the end of March because I was having terrible abdominal pain and for some reason the doctor thought that it would appropriate to 'make the joke' that I was pregnant. It was pretty much the worst ever!

B. Just because you cannot get pregnant, doesn't mean that you should adopt.
I truly believe that you need to have a heart for adoption, as the process is rewarding, but is also very difficult. I have heard people say, and have read on people's blogs that if you cannot have kids then you should just adopt. Slim and I totally want to adopt and we know that no matter what, we will begin that process at the beginning of next year. We have decided together that we are going to spend the rest of this year trying, with the Clomid for a few more months (they don't recommend you taking it for more than 6 cycles) and then on our own through December. I am not the type of person that feels like if I never have a baby out of my own womb that I won't be able to be complete, but that doesn't stop me from hoping and praying!

C. Another thing that I have learned is that unless you have experienced it yourself, you cannot understand the pain of month after month realizing you are not pregnant again. There are always going to be people who get pregnant the month they stop preventing, and I don't hold that against them. It is such a blessing that they didn't have to deal with the difficulties of not being able to conceive. My realization is if you haven't had to deal with it, please don't say "I understand."

All of this to say, deal with me if I get moody, let me vent if I need to vent, share your story with me, hope with me, and most of all pray for Slim and me!

Happiest of Happys to the man who I love!

2009-05-04T08:03:00.000-07:00

Today is a great day... it is the birthday of my Dear Sweet Babe. The young lad turns a whopping 26 today, even though he can hardly ever rememeber how old he is!

Here is a recent video of him doing what he loves... playing the guitar. For those of you who have never heard him play, this is just a sampling of the abilities of Slimtronic5000.

Be sure to visit his website and wish the young fellow a happy birthday.

Also if you live in the area and are looking for something fun and exciting to do next Monday night (May 11th), come out to Cape Coral to see Jubilee play with This Beautiful Republic. It is a show you won't want to miss. Check out the poster (which my precious Hubs designed- could he be any more talented?)

A whole lot-

2009-04-28T08:10:00.001-07:00

has happened since the last time I posted.

On the 10th of this month, I became very sick with Bronchitis. I actually went through a round of antibiotics and then had to go back for some more. I am still coughing. It is miserable.

Even though I was sick, I spent Easter with my family. It is always good to be together with them!

On the 22nd I went to Omaha for Home Instead Senior Care's annual convention. I don't have any pictures from that, but trust me, it was a fabulous time!

I am going to be better about blogging... I promise!

a lush update

2009-04-09T06:49:00.000-07:00

So I made a mistake, the lotion I have from Lush is actually called "Sensitivity for the Skin". Whoops, but it is awesome!

Also, this morning I used my solid shampoo and conditioner, and I am in love. You have to try it. I couldn't believe the lather that I got from the shampoo, I think the thing is going to last forever, because it doesn't take much, and my whole head was covered. Go here and buy yours today!

It has been a while...

2009-04-08T09:10:00.000-07:00

so here is what I am loving right now.

1. Sinful Clothing.

Well I have loved Sinful for a while, but as of late, I have decided that it is all that I want to wear when I am not in work. Sadly it is way too expensive, but I did get this exact shirt from Marshall's and it was only $24. On the official website was $66. Hooray for sales! Now you may think it is weird that I would wear a shirt that said "sinful" on it, but it has actually been a great conversation started to share Christ with people, ya know, since "all have sinned..."

2. Soda Water and Blackberry

I had this for the first time at Chili's and it was awesome, and now I have had it twice at Macaroni Grill. It is delicious and refreshing!

3. Bakerella

The last post pretty much explained this, but seriously, how awesome is this lady? This past week she turned peeps into peep-achus. I mean come on!

4. Lush

If you aren't familiar with Lush, you should be. They make and sell bath and beauty products that are 100% vegetarian, made by hand and never tested on animals. Not only that, but they have really cool marketing ideas and you truly feel that they care about you. Everything that they send you is personalized by the person who made and packaged it. Slim's birth father and his wife sent me a gift card to Lush, for Christmas, and above are the items that I purchased. A solid shampoo and Conditioner. They just came yesterday, so I will let you know how I feel about them soon.

5. Dream Cream from Lush

This stuff was given to me by my wonderful brother-in-law. It has changed my skin and my life. I don't think that I will ever use another body cream. Not only is it super creamy and smooth, but it also smells of Cocoa Butter, and who doesn't love that? (If you live in SW Florida, there is a Lush in Edison Mall!!!)

6. Mary Hines Cake Balls

Um, the idea came from Bakerella, but the delightful taste came from Mary Hines. Oh my gosh, are they good!!! I had them at the Grand Opening of the Red Box/ Ashley Brockinton studio.

7. Ashley Allbee's nature work

If you know my friend Ashley, then you know that she loves a few thing... her hubby, tea, photography, and nature. (I am sure that she loves more than that, but those stick out to me) If you are looking for some really cool nature art, please contact her, and I am sure that she would be willing to sell you some.

8. The Love Alliance

You might be familiar with a tv show on MTV called Engaged and Underage. Well their first couple, Lauren and David Ranzino, started a foundation called "The Love Alliance." The Love Alliance is a non-profit association that does their best to eliminate social injustices. I love what they are doing, and love that they are making a difference! (Random piece of info- Jubilee and co are doing a Raw TV spot today with Lauren and David, and we are really excited to be linking up with them to make a difference)

9. Babybel cheese

Random I know, but it is simply delish!

10. My pandora bracelet

Now this one isn't exactly mine, but I am hoping that one day, mine will be filled to the brim with charms that represent things that are important to me. The amazing ladies at my work started this bracelet for my birthday, and since then I have 3 beads. A pink glass one with polka dots (for the ladies who I work with), a tulip (for Home Instead Senior Care), and a heart (for God, Slim, and love in general). So if you are looking to get me a gift (haha) I would love some more beads!

I have an obsession.

2009-04-07T10:38:00.000-07:00

I am absolutely obsessed with a blog that I found. This women could be the most amazing baker that I have ever see. She has the neatest ideas and I cannot wait to have a day off to try to make some of these. Maybe I will do it on Friday so that I can have some Easter cupcake pops for Easter Sunday. You can click on the link for each one to get the recipe for what she did to make these masterpieces.

Some Easter Bunnies

Some Easter Chicks

Some cute lambs

My all time favorite: The cupcake pops

Here is Hello Kitty.

And last but not least... something that has nothing to do with cupcakes or pops, but a 14 layer cake!!!

Check out her blog to find out the other crazy creative things that she is up to these days!

Another little sweetie who needs prayer!!!

2009-04-02T11:03:00.000-07:00

I found THIS blog through one of the Stellan Facebook groups. Please read her story and leave her some love.

My crazy Hubs

2009-04-02T08:41:00.000-07:00

has a new website...

Check it out

Slim's website

Encouragement for the infertile...

2009-04-02T06:56:00.000-07:00

One of the blogs that I frequent had some encouraging news regarding infertility...

Here is the link.

Be encouraged by her words!

a broken heart

2009-03-29T09:40:00.000-07:00

This week was a hard one...

Personally, for me dealing with some infertility stuff, but also learning of the struggles of others.

I have read some seriously heartbreaking blogs this week. The pain of families who lose a child, I cannot even imagine.

One family who I have been following has a little boy, who was never supposed to make it. With God's grace, he was born, but as of now, Stellan is struggling.

You can read about him here.

You can also be part of his groups on Facebook. Here are the link for those...

Praying for Stellan

and We love Mck Mama

Please join the groups, and be praying for Sweet Stellan. They also have a photo gallery of people praying for Stellan and using him name in different ways. I am working on some ideas this week, and will post mine on here soon.

Love you all... let's lift up this sweet little one.

a couple of things stolen from blogs that I love

2009-03-20T08:02:00.000-07:00

From Abigail's cooking blog... I mean don't these look DA-LISH? She actually didn't bake them, so the credit goes to a Christine in Utah, and Abigail's niece Cassies for these delights.

"Smurtles"

1 and 1/2 cups quick oats
1 and 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup packed brown sugar
1/2 tsp. baking soda
1/4 tsp. salt
1 cup (2 sticks) butter (no substitutes), melted
1 package (14 oz.) vanilla caramels
1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
1 and 3/4 cup semisweet chocolate chips (but who's gonna care if you use 2 cups, eh?)

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Lightly grease a 13" X 9" pan. ('Cause those two sticks of butter won't be enough...)

Combine oats, flour, brown sugar, baking soda, and salt in a large bowl. Add melted butter; stir until well combined. Press half of the mixture onto bottom of prepared pan. Bake for 10 minutes.
Combine caramels and whipping cream in a medium saucepan. Cook over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until caramels are melted and mixture is smooth. Sprinkle morsels over baked crust. Drizzle caramel mixture evenly over the chocolate morsels. Sprinkle remaining crumb mixture over caramel layer.

Bake 18-20 minutes or until top is light brown. Cool in pan on wire rack. Cut into bars.

Next, My friend Robin, who is the sister of my lovely Sarah Buzzard had this posted on her blog. Link to her's to find out all about it, but before you do that, enjoy this adorable picture of my parent's and their grandkids.

Echo's website

2009-03-17T11:45:00.000-07:00

Visit it HERE

Sorry... forgot to post the link!

This week...

2009-03-15T14:34:00.000-07:00

Janelle and Sherrill came to visit Slim and me this week, and during the time that they were here, they volunteered at a place called ECHO. Sherrill is training to be an agricultural missionary, and that is just what ECHO does.

It was an awesome week, but I only got a few pictures on my camera, and they were all from the first night.

Hopefully Sherrill will get the internship that she applied for, because that way she will be down here all the time and then Janelle can move here!!!

This week, we went to Tropical Smoothie, obviously, went on a bike ride, while Janelle ran, visited Twistie Treat, had breakfast for Supper, visited the Kirkland's ranch, went to Skip One so that they could try Gator Tail, and of course did some shopping.

I can't wait for them to come back!

Check out my sister-in-law and her sister on Wheel Of Fortune this Wednesday night.

2009-03-09T10:29:00.001-07:00

http://www.wheeloffortune.com/minisites/orlando/familyfun/contestantvideosandphotos/

You can go there and watch their preview video... just go to the bottom of the page and click on "Brittani and Brandi".

Locally Grown Indie Fest

2009-03-09T06:10:00.000-07:00

This past Saturday and Sunday, a church in Naples hosted the Strawberry Festival/Locally Grown Indie Festival.

Jubilee played on Saturday at 5pm, and it was awesome. Here are some pictures from that day.

Please note... the girl in the orange shorts just walked up on the stage and started dancing. She had to be escorted off- never a dull moment with Jubilee & Co!

Help needed

2009-03-06T07:54:00.000-08:00

URGENT NEED: Rescue for Rapha

We've just received confirmation from our new Uganda staff director, Joseph, that 357children in the Rapha community are out of food and at-risk for losing their school placements (due to inability to pay school fees).

You guys have proven that you understand the dire need for food in Africa where one meal a day is considered a luxury. These children are at risk for losing THAT one meal. Currently, there is no food to feed these children.

GO TO WWW.HOPECHEST.ORG to donate (note: Rescue for Rapha in comments)

How important is education? It keeps the older girls out of prostitution and sexual slavery. It prevents boys from becoming child soldiers and criminals. Without the school, the kids would find themselves working in the fields as child laborers, selling whatever they can find in the market, and exposing themselves to even worse exploitation.

Ask an African child--which do you need more education or food? They always pick education. "If we have food and no education, we know we're dead anyway." I take for granted my own children's education here in the U.S. In Africa, it is about life and death for kids, and right now 357 kids are staring at a desperate future. If the Rapha school folds, 357 children will face the "orphan future" of drugs, alcohol, prostitution, slavery, crime, and suicide. We can stop all of that at Rapha today and set them up for a bright future.

GO TO WWW.HOPECHEST.ORG to donate (note: Rescue for Rapha in comments)

These children had no hope for their lives before the Rapha school started. Ruth, the founder of the school, rescued these children the first time. Pulled them from abject poverty and provided for their food and their schooling. Now, that's all at risk. I can't bear the thought of a child leaving the Rapha school and turning to prostitution or crime to survive. I can't consider the potential exploitation of hundreds of young children. And it won't happen if we respond together.

Rapha is one of several Ugandan communities that is on track for full sponsorship later this Spring. However, present circumstances are now threatening 357 children. The founder of the Rapha school and orphan community died unexpectedly in 2008. Since that time money's been tight, and the Rapha school and orphanage have been operating at a deficit. In fact, the teachers and staff at Rapha School are so committed to these children that they have been working for FREE for over 5 months (no money for teachers' salaries)! HopeChest is ready to pick up this funding for the long term--but we need a bridge to get there. It's about $50/kid that we need right now...

GO TO WWW.HOPECHEST.ORG to donate (note: Rescue for Rapha in comments)

Right now, Children's HopeChest is sending out the call to raise emergency funds of $18,054.

Along with the 55 orphaned children that live at Rapha Village, they have a school for 251 other children (Rapha Primary School) as well as pay for schooling for another 51 children (including 6 university students). Total, they provide education and food to 357 children. Your gifts will keep the children's school fees paid and ensure Rapha has enough food to meet their need for the next few months. Also, part of your gift will be used by Children's HopeChest to build a bridge toward sponsorship in Uganda.

Just $50/kid keeps a Ugandan orphan fed and in school until CHC can activate our sponsorship program...can you help?

GO TO WWW.HOPECHEST.ORG to donate (note: Rescue for Rapha in comments)

Please put "Rescue for Rapha" in the notes section of the giving page.

You can help Children's HopeChest build a bridge to more consistent funding through sponsorship. If this is fully funded, it will rescue Rapha from their current circumstances, and also accelerate CHC's launch in Uganda.

Katie, a Colorado woman who lives part time in Uganda, had this to say of the Rapha school: Rapha School was a forest before Ruth came along to bring education, hope, and love through a school and foster village. I have seen Rapha develop from a small papyrus school into a full primary school, farm, and foster family village. The children in Rapha community prior to Rapha school were unable to attend school and thus continue the cycle of illiteracy in thier families! Now the next generation of Rapha community kids will have a chance to succeed in life!

for your boredom...

2009-02-27T09:24:00.000-08:00

CD Cover Generator

1 - Go to "wikipedia." Hit “random”
or click

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:Random

The first random wikipedia article you get is the name of your band.

2 - Go to "Random quotations"
or click

http://www.quotationspage.com/random.php3

The last four or five words of the very last quote of the page is the title of your first album.

3 - Go to flickr and click on “explore the last seven days”
or click

http://www.flickr.com/explore/interesting/7days

Third picture, no matter what it is, will be your album cover.

4 - Use photoshop or similar to put it all together (or www.picnik.com).

5 - Post it with this text in the "caption" and TAG the friends you want to participate: Tagging Erin, Carly, Brittani, Jessica

10 things that I am loving right now...

2009-02-26T05:46:00.000-08:00

1. The Bachelor.
I have an addiction, folks. I don't even really like the people on the show, but I have to watch. This Monday is the finale, but I am pretty sure that there is more drama to come... I will be watching this Monday at my friend Cherie's house. You should be watching too.

2. My new mascara.

I was telling Carly last week that I was in need of new mascara, but the one that I love from MAC was just a little too much for me to spend right now. Carly told me about Colossal Mascara from Maybelline, and the stuff works like a champ. It's like I am wearing false eyelashes.

3. Amber Kirkland's iced tea.

This girl can make some sweet tea. She makes an orange spiced iced tea that is to die for. Slim and I both love it, and get so excited to go to their house, because that means that we get to drink it!

4. Chocolate Banana Vivanno from Starbucks.

Last week, I got to have tea with my darling Ashley Allbee. It had been too long. As you know, Slim and I are trying to be good. Being that I was hungry but didn't want to splurge on any of the goodies at Starbucks, I decided to try their Chocolate Banana... and it was awesome. I have had another since then, and it has made my day. I had one for breakfast this morning, and it filled me up because of the protein and the whole banana inside. (5pts on Weight Watchers... but could be a meal substitute for sure)

5. Scrabble on my phone.

I play it non-stop, even when I am driving sometimes. (Don't tell my mom) I play it on every commericial, while "resting" in the restroom, and basically anytime I am free. In case you were wondering "xi", "za", and "qi" are all words.

6. Crispy Fried Green Beans.

I haven't had them in a while, because again, Slim and I are watching what we eat, but these things call my name all the time. What a clever idea to batter and fry green beans. Apparently the ones at PF Chang are da-lish. We have never had them there, but have had them other places and loved them. Maybe on our next splurge night, we can get some from Changs, and I will report how delisicous they are.

7. Wax Bottles.

Childish, I know, but they are a fun and tasty treat, and you can eat the whole bag for only one point. Gotta love that!!! The green ones are my favorite, and for some reason they always skimp on those(even though you couldn't tell that from this picture). Slim taught me the technique of how to get all the juice out without losing any! Any time he goes to CVS to get anything, I get wax bottles as a special prize...He is amazing!

8. The pictures from my new camera.

I know you have been waiting for pictures from the new camera. I have too. The MAC charger is in the mail, so soon enough folks. In the meantime, I dumped all the pictures onto Michael Kirkland's laptop, and he posted this picture to facebook. Just you wait until I post the consecutive shots of Jubilee acting like a hampster. Slim is going to make it into a .gif for me so that it acts like a video. IT IS AWESOME! (please note, this is not the best from my camera... they are to come)

9. A healthy Dude.

If you didn't hear, our dog Dude was really sick and lost nearly 30 lbs. since Christmas. He had to have surgery because the vet was certain that there was something in his stomach that was obstructing other things from passing through. The morning of the surgery they thought that it might be a tumor, and if it was, they would probably have to put him down right away. Talk about sad days. Despite a costly surgery, there was a great outcome. Dude didn't have a tumor, just a piece of hard plastic lodged in the path of the intestine. Now he is home, on puppy food to gain weight, and happy. The picture above is pre-surgery, obviously.

10. Norman Gentle.

I know it is weird, but Slim and I both like the comedic acts of Mr. Nick Mitchell aka. Norman Gentle. We hope that he makes it through so we can keep enjoying the humor that is Nick/Norman. Last night, as Idol was on, I was laughing so hard... it was the best. He is an average singer with a ton of personality, and though he might not be our next American Idol, he will be remembered.

What are you loving right now?

While you wait...

2009-02-24T06:43:00.000-08:00

48 things about me!
1. WERE YOU NAMED AFTER ANYONE?
My dad has an Aunt Laura, I think that I met her one time when I was little.

2. WHEN WAS THE LAST TIME YOU CRIED?
I don't remember, actually, and this is weird because I usually cry every day!

3. DO YOU LIKE YOUR HANDWRITING?
I do. When I was going into 8th grade, I practiced my handwriting for a whole summer so that I would start to like it. I like both my printing and cursive now.

4. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE LUNCH MEAT?
Roast Beef

5. DO YOU HAVE KIDS?
Well right now, Slim and I are trying to have kids, but in the mean time, we have 2 dogs: Darby and the Dude.

6. IF YOU WERE ANOTHER PERSON, WOULD YOU BE FRIENDS WITH YOU?
I think so... I am easy to get along with:)

7. DO YOU USE SARCASM?
me... NEVER.

8. DO YOU STILL HAVE YOUR TONSILS?
Yes and I am conviced that I should have had them out as a kid.

9. WOULD YOU BUNGEE JUMP?
Sure.

10. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE CEREAL?
To be honest, somedays I wish that I could eat Cinnamon Toast Crunch for every meal.

11. DO YOU UNTIE YOUR SHOES WHEN YOU TAKE THEM OFF?
I rarely wear tie shoes... I live in FL silly.

13. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE ICE CREAM?
Hard: Cookies and Cream
Soft: Vanilla with sprinkles

14. WHAT IS THE FIRST THING YOU NOTICE ABOUT PEOPLE?
If they are wearing a wedding ring, and their hair.

15. RED OR PINK?
Red

16. WHAT IS YOUR LEAST FAVORITE THING ABOUT YOURSELF?
I worry about everything. I am working on it, but I just want to be able to trust God... I am pretty sure that this is one thing that my mom passed down to me.

17. WHO DO YOU MISS THE MOST?
Grandma and Grandpa Spensieri

18. DO YOU WANT EVERYONE TO COMPLETE THIS LIST?
I love reading this blasted things:), so get to typing.

19. WHAT COLOR PANTS AND SHOES ARE YOU WEARING?
Dark Tan pants, Black shoes.

21. WHAT ARE YOU LISTENING TO RIGHT NOW?
The ladies at work talking.

22. IF YOU WERE A CRAYON, WHAT COLOR WOULD YOU BE?
Yellow.

23. FAVORITE SMELLS?
Coffee, Gardenia, Cocoa Butter, Peppermint... the list goes on.

24. WHO WAS THE LAST PERSON YOU TALKED TO ON THE PHONE?
Jessica Terry Burke

25. DO YOU LIKE THE PERSON WHO SENT THIS TO YOU?
I found it on Facebook- from a person who I don't know, but she seemed nice.

26. FAVORITE SPORTS TO WATCH?
Basketball, Baseball, Football, Hockey- all better in person, of course.

27. HAIR COLOR?
Dark Brown with Grey highlights:)

28. EYE COLOR?
Medium Brown.

29. DO YOU WEAR CONTACTS?
Glasses.

30. FAVORITE FOOD?
Cheese.

31. SCARY MOVIES OR HAPPY ENDINGS?
Happy Endings.

32. LAST MOVIE YOU WATCHED?
Confessions of a Shopaholic with Amber, Madison, and Makenli.

33. WHAT COLOR SHIRT ARE YOU WEARING?
Teal, lime green, black, tan patterned.

34. SUMMER OR WINTER?
Winter in FL, Summer in NY.

35. HUGS OR KISSES?
Sure.

37. MOST LIKELY TO Complete?
Erin Herrenbruck, maybe.

38. LEAST LIKELY TO RESPOND?
Probably everyone else.

39. WHAT BOOK ARE YOU READING NOW?
The Love Dare.

40. WHAT IS ON YOUR MOUSE PAD?
No mouse pad.

41. WHAT DID YOU WATCH ON TV LAST NIGHT?
Bachelor: The Women Tell All.

42. FAVORITE SOUND(S).
Slim's laugh, waves crashing, fire crackling.

43. ROLLING STONES OR BEATLES?
Both.

44. WHAT IS THE FARTHEST YOU HAVE BEEN FROM HOME?
Germany and Brazil... probably equally as far.

45. DO YOU HAVE A SPECIAL TALENT:
I can put my legs behind my head.

46. WHERE WERE YOU BORN?
Syracuse, NY

47. WHOSE ANSWERS ARE YOU LOOKING FORWARD TO GETTING BACk?
Everyone's!!

48. HOW DID YOU MEET YOUR SPOUSE/SIGNIFICANT OTHER?
We both worked at the same youth group.

Blogs and Photos to come... I promise

2009-02-24T06:40:00.001-08:00

I need to get a new power supply for my mac, so until then, you will have to wait patiently for pictures and posts.

Please know that fun things are happening, and pictures are being taken, and you will be able to see them soon!

A new addition

2009-02-11T04:00:00.000-08:00

My sweet husband is amazing...

Before a recent sad event of our dog Dude taking ill, and almost having to be put to sleep, my husband did his research and purchased me this lovely thing for Valentine's Day...

The photo is small but if you were wondering, it is a Canon EOS Rebel XS, and I love it! (Well let's be honest, I am still trying to figure out how to use it.)

I know that it is not yet Valentine's Day, but if you know my husband, you know that every gift that he has ever given to me has come before the holiday... and this way he can say that 'we don't do Valentine's Day, we celebrate everyday!' I always thought that was a way that people got out of buying their love presents, I think in some cases it still is. On the other hand, I had Slim's present shipped last Friday, and it might not get here in time, so he might be getting a Happy Day after President's Day, present :).

Love and hugs to all of you out there. Happy Valentine's/President's Day!

The Silver Ring Thing

2009-02-03T08:07:00.000-08:00

This past week, Slim along with Jubilee and company played for The Silver Ring Thing.

For those of you who don't know, The Silver Ring Thing is a youth ministry that promotes the message of abstinence until marriage. They put on a live event featuring skits, testimonies, and video along with fire, confetti, and the works. The tourmates sign on to tour for 9 months visiting churches all across the country.

At times they have local bands come alongside them to play a set at the beginning, and XL Management hooked Jubilee up with them for this past week. It was awesome.

The band played on Wednesday, 1.28.09 in Marco Island, on Friday, 1.30.09 in Naples, and on Saturday, 1.31.09 in Immokalee.

Because the band and the tour got along so well, Jubilee is committed to meeting up with them to do the Tampa and Orlando shows, and we are super excited. Here are some photos from last week's shows...

We had a blast, and I am so excited for Tampa and Orlando at the end of this month!!!

25 Random Things from Facebook

2009-01-27T17:27:00.000-08:00

**Note the above picture was taken in March... should I go back to that cut?

1. I love that my husband is a musician: I really love everything about music and am not the best at it, so since my husband is, I get to be involved by default.
2. I have a problem with reality TV... besides Heroes, it is all that I watch. (American Idol, The Bachelor, The City, The Hills, John and Kate plus 8... the list goes on)
3. When Carly moved, she took part of me with her. If I talk to her everyday I can convince myself that she isn't 1000 miles away.
4. Even though I am grown up and haven't been out dancing in about 4 years, if you brought the HAMS together right now, that is probably what we would do, and I would be so happy.
5. I constantly look at people's pictures that they add to Facebook... if you are my friend, I have seen all your albums. It is a compulsive issue- I am working on it.
6. I really have only ever wanted to be a mom- soon I hope.
7. I am so glad that facebook has reconnected me with Gidge, Erin, and Ang, three of my best friends from my highschool years.
8. If I am in the car, then I am on the phone. Every morning I talk to my mom on the way to work, and Carly or Jessica Burke get me on the way home.
9. I read blogs everyday. If you don't have one, you should start one so that I can read about your life, and look at all your pictures. (www.justsomeoflaurasramblings.blogspot.com)
10. I love to bake, but don't do it, because Slim and I are trying to lose weight.
11. Cupcakes are my favorite treat. White cupcake with white frosting...mmm- I get that from my mom.
12. My wedding was the best wedding that I have ever been to... no joke and not just because it was mine.
13. Slim and I fell in love with Santa Cruz, CA. I hope that once the economy starts looking up, we can go back there and stay at the West Cliff Inn again.
14. I adore the people that we have met since Slim has been playing with Jubilee and co. They are amazing and challenge Slim and me in our relationships with the Lord.
15. I miss Ashley Allbee... I haven't seen her since like November and we live like 5 minutes from each other. Let's fix that friend!
16. Thursday morning girl's study is the best... even though it comes really early. We started with 6 ladies, and 3 moved away. Mel, Abs and I are staying strong.
17. I am in love with my niece and nephews. I am so thankful that despite the three hours apart, I still get to see them about every month.
18. My cousin Melinda is like a sister. I wish that Chicago was really close, so that we could see each other more than once or twice per year.
19. I am really glad that Joe is an employee of Slimline Visual Communication because Alex and I have gotten to hang out and get to know each other better.
20. Slim and I go to the Buzzard's on a weekly basis, just to hang out. They have become our second family, and we get to celebrate everything together.
21. I despise birds, and stickers... and I am not going to ever like them.
22. I really hate riding horses, and am not really sure why anyone things that is a fun thing to do.
23. I could ride on a boat all day, every day, and never get tired of being out on the water.
24. I love that almost all of my friends have kids or have kids on the way. Children are a blessing and it makes me so happy to see them in that stage of their lives.
25. I sometimes wish that Slim and I could live a much simpler life, on a large piece of land, where we can raise babies that can run in the woods, and enjoy nature.

Random, I know

2009-01-23T07:53:00.000-08:00

...but when I was in High School, these were my favorite treats, and the lunch lady used to save one for me, because she knew that I loved them! Thank you lunch lady... I wish I had one now! MMM!

A part of history

2009-01-20T07:39:00.000-08:00

Today is a day that will be written in history books, and read and studied by our children's children's children.

Today is the day that America's first African American president will be elected into office.

Many people are crying for joy.
Many people are crying with fear.
We should be praying for our great country, and thanking God for His provision for us.

We are blessed.
Change will come.
We all get to be a part of it!

My mom's aprons

2009-01-18T05:25:00.000-08:00

So I have mentioned before that my mom is selling aprons and donating all profits to Children's HopeChest.

She has started a blog. Check her out HERE.

Also, please visit Brandi's blog to find out about an apron auction. Go bid, and bid high!

Ashley Danielle is A-Mazing

2009-01-11T06:35:00.000-08:00

She took pictures of Jubilee yesterday. Check some of them out...

You can visit Ashley Allbee's blog to see some more.

There are so many things that I love about these pictures... first that two of my favorite people were involved, second that they are not your typical photos, and last they are AMAZING!

A fun new blog

2009-01-09T07:14:00.000-08:00

Check it out!!!

If you would like to be a part of it, let me know, and I will let you be an author on it!

New Cooking Blog

10 things I am loving right now, January 2009 edition

2009-01-07T06:46:00.000-08:00

1. Clementines... all day every day. Plus, Slim and I are doing our own, at home, 'Weight Watchers', and you can have 2 for one point.

2. The City... you all know my addiction to the Hills, but Whit has her own show now, and I am becoming a little bit of an addict to this one as well.

3. My New Bike... Slim got me a bike for Christmas. I was totally surprised, but am in love with it's cute red and white style. We are going for daily bike rides, which is so fun!
4. Twisted Peppermint Body Splash... The day before Christmas eve, I went to Bath and Body Works, and they had these suckers on sale for $2.50 each, so I bought myself a prize, and it smells fabulous!5. Jubilee worship... As you know from THIS previous post, Slim has been playing with Jubilee. The other night they played a midnight worship service at a lock-in, and it was incredible. I am loving it!

6. Taco Soup... I love everything about it.
Lindsey Dorrill, one of my dear loves, introduced this to me years ago and I have made it on and off since then.

Here is the recipe-

1 lb lean ground beef (or turkey)
1 onion, chopped
1 pkg taco seasonings
1 pkg dry Ranch seasonings
2 cans diced tomatoes, undrained
1 can Rotel tomatoes, undrained
1 can black beans, drained
1 can pinto beans, drained
1 can whole kernel corn, drained

Brown the meat and onion. Add seasonings. Mix with cans of beans, corn, and tomatoes, and simmer. You could also cook it in the crock pot for as long as you would like.

Serve with reduced-fat cheddar cheese, reduced-fat sour cream, and tortilla chips.

7. My mom's aprons... My mom is super talented. In November, she made me an apron for my birthday, and since then has made many for gifts, but has also sold many to donate the money to Children's Hope Chest and their work in Uganda. If you are interested, she is selling them for $20 each, and the profit goes straight to the children in Uganda. Gotta love that!

8. Sarah and Joel being preggo... Sarah is my friend who thought that she might never want to be a mom. She will be having a boy at the beginning of May. They live in NY and will be down to visit Orlando this weekend. Can't wait to see them, and that cute belly! If you didn't know, Joel and I went to high school together and Sarah and I went to college together... I got to be their match-maker! Here is their wedding- 3 1/2 years ago.

9. Mario Kart... Slim and I love our Wii, and as a special prize, he got me Mario Kart. I could play it all day long. When I am at my in-law's house, we do:)

10. The Game of Things... We got this from our darling Buzzards for Christmas, and we played it at the Buzzilian Christmas party, as well as a bunch of times with my family, in Orlando. It is a blast, and super funny. There were many times that I was laughing so hard that I cried!
What are you loving right now?

just because I love it

2009-01-06T09:12:00.001-08:00

Christmas Re-cap

2009-01-06T06:11:00.000-08:00

God is so good, isn't He?

Slim and I had our best Christmas yet. We loved being with our families, and had a fantastic time together. I honestly cannot believe that it has come and gone!

We started out our festivities at the first annual Buzzilian Christmas party. Now it might seem strange being that every week, we go to the Buzzard's house anyway, but we had a wonderful evening, like always. Here are some pics of our time with them around Christmas!

I don't have any pictures from our Christmas Eve adventures, but here are some from Orlando.

Me helping the sweetlings open some gifts.

The boys and their remote control car. Brayden had been asking for one for months. He got it, and Uncle Slim was just as excited as they were. When we bought it for them, Slim was like overjoyed at the capability of this thing!
Here is Melinda and me, excited about our gifts. Notice her apron, my mom makes them, if you are interested, she is donating the money to Uganda and what God is doing there.
Me and my presh nephew Brayden.
The kids shop for all the adults each year. They go to the dollar store and pick out our gifts. Brayden was so excited about the gift he got for Uncle Slim, that he even told him "you are going to laugh so hard, because it is the best gift in the whole world." Yes, it is a toilet bowl cleaner!

This guy takes after his Uncle Slim. Davis, keep playing!!!

Look at this sweet snuggly pants :) Gracie in all her cuteness.

Uncle Mike and Melinda rocking out to Jimmy's Guitar Hero, and Davis loving every minute of it!

I love my sweet friends and family, and am so thankful for them. It was wonderful to be all together!

oh the merriest!

2008-12-23T07:47:00.000-08:00

We wish you and your family the most blessed Christmas and prosperous New Year!

Praying that God will show Himself real to you through Jesus and that this year more than ever you will know his Saving Grace.

Love,
Dude

Darby

Laura and Slim

This is the view from my desk...

2008-12-17T14:39:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas seniors of SW Florida. You are loved! We will have all the presents delivered by next Tuesday. Thank you for helping to brighten the lives of our greatest generation!

I have been

2008-12-17T04:13:00.001-08:00

working long hours

not getting things done at home

missing my family

missing my friends

loving my husband, but being too grouchy to show it

and tired, really tired.

Hopefully today is better.