Musings of a Baby Boomer

January 12, 2012

2012-01-12T16:21:00.000-07:00

It is hard to believe that the month is almost half over. There has been so much going on these past two weeks. Of course Jasmine and I have started back to school. I am also the Student Assessment Coordinator this year in my new job so I get to be in charge of TCAP which is the new CSAP testing for the state. The name has changed but the basic tests themselves have not changed. I've been training and getting ready for what will take place in March.Brian starts back to school next week. He is only taking one class this semester and it is on line. So that will help out with the chaos somewhat. He's counting the days until retirement.In March Brian and I are going to Austin, TX for our anniversary. We will be combining our trip with a chance to spend time with old friends who live there. We booked our flight and hotel reservations today. I can't wait.This weekend we had some exciting news. Emily is getting married. The wedding will be in August and will be very small, just family and close friends. So now we have begun to plan for that event. August will be here before we know it.

Happy New Year 2012

2012-01-01T09:10:00.002-07:00

The last time I wrote in this blog was January 2, 2011. Great job, Linda with keeping up. Well this is another year. Things that are upcoming? Jasmine will turn 14 this year and start high school in the fall. Brian will retire in July. He is taking vacation days in July so he will actually be finished at the end of June. We are planning a trip to Jason and Kristen's so that Brian can help Jason finished the addition. I guess I am planning to continue working. What would I do otherwise???

My main plan for this year is survival of Jasmine's teenage years. I really want and need to keep up with my blogging. I've forced myself to keep up with Facebook

To recap the year. My brother Edd has moved out here. It has been a challenging decision for him but I think he is glad to be here. I'm really glad he is here. Also, I really like my new job at Community Prep Charter School as Curriculum and Instruction facilitator. I've met some great new people. Jas is back at Pikes Peak Christian and doing well. She's been playing basketball and wants to do track.

Brian's job continues to be a challenge and he is definitely ready to retire. We lost Brian's Uncle Jack to cancer and heart condition. I lost a cousin that I haven't seen since college to cancer.

I've gotten into card making and love it. I've neglected my rug hooking and knitting which I need to get back into. I've been playing Assassin's Creed Revelations and loving it. I got the new Galaxy Tab 10.1 and am enjoying it. So much I like to do and so little time. Happy New Year, everyone. Hopefully this time I can keep blogging.

A New Year

2011-01-02T09:47:00.002-07:00

Here I go again. I'm not very good at keeping up with this and I hardly ever get on facebook anymore. This has been a season of miracles. My brother is recovering beautifully. I'm so thankful he's alive.
I'm looking forward to the new year but wondering what God has in store. There is always the question of whether or not I should keep working. Thus far I haven't answered it. I'm still wondering what I'm supposed to be doing with my life. I'm excited to discover what opportunities God has in store.
Life is definitely an adventure.

2010-10-15T09:50:00.000-06:00

Personalize a digital scrapbook

The Purpose for My Life 1

2010-04-19T06:19:00.003-06:00

Brian and I have been struggling with retirement questions? What should we do with our lives? Where should we live? What lifestyle do we want? What are our dreams for the future? All legitimate questions, right?

Our small group has decided to read (or reread as the case may be) The Purose Driven Life by Rick Warren. Brian and I studied this book years ago with a small group when we lived out in Falcon. I guess God said, "You need to read it again. You've lost focus."

"It hit me right between the eyes! Focusing on ourselves will never reveal our life's purpose." We've been praying, "God what should we be doing?" Instead we need to be praying, "God what is your purpose for us?"

^24-26Then Jesus went to work on his disciples. "Anyone who intends to come with me has to let me lead. You're not in the driver's seat; I am. Don't run from suffering; embrace it. Follow me and I'll show you how. Self-help is no help at all. Self-sacrifice is the way, my way, to finding yourself, your true self. What kind of deal is it to get everything you want but lose yourself? What could you ever trade your soul for? (Msg)

I told Brian that I feel as if we have come full circle. We talked about moving and I've spent lots of time researching my dream to live on the water but for now, I feel God is telling us to stay put. That is not the dream He wants us to pursue at this time.

Procrastination

2010-03-19T08:26:00.002-06:00

I read in my devotion today that procrastination is a struggle against one's self. How profound! What a waste of time and energy! How shortsighted we become to postpone temporary discomfort only to create inevitable worry, panic and a race to complete the task. Creating a habit of doing what needs to be done and eliminating procrastination alleviates stress and worry from our lives. "Do what needs to be done, when it needs to be done, and your life will be easier." Sounds pretty simple to me.

Happy New Year

2010-01-10T09:49:00.002-07:00

Thus starts the new year. Brian and I joined Villa Sports and are really enjoying it. One of my goals is to get in better shape so I've started working out with a trainer. Not doing too bad after the first work out, a little sore but in a good way. Tiffany is a great trainer. Now I have to set up a regiment and stick with it. Ugh! I'm going to work out on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Fridays.

I'm still enjoying my job but I have to keep reminding Wayne I'm only half time! Now that all the trainings and field trips are out of the way, I'm looking forward to working with the kids.

We have had snow in our back yard since September and freezing temperatures. However, today is suppose to get up to 50. Maybe it will melt some of this snow. I'm going to try to blog at least once a week this year. Because of my blackberry, I rarely get on the computer except at work. So little time and so much to do!

Merry Christmas to All!

2009-12-22T11:21:00.000-07:00

Dear Family and Friends,

I hope even in these dark times that you are rejoicing in what God has provided for you. I know that I am very grateful for my job and the stability that it provides. Keeping a positive attitude at work is more of a challenge this year, but still doable and I enjoy working with my crew.

Retirement is drawing near for me and I am looking forward to it. I have been in the fire dept. for over 28 years now. I am also staying busy with things around the house and I have tried to pick up some of the load to keep Linda from pulling her hair out.

Linda is working a 1/2 time job this year. She took a position as transition coach (helping students transition from high school to post-secondary) and is back at Bijou School where she had retired. She is enjoying working with her old boss and some other colleagues that she once worked with. She discovered that her certifications will expire in May, so she has also been taking classes. One of those was 'Reality Spanish'. Her graduation exercise was ordering a meal, in Spanish, at a local Mexican restaurant. She said the food was delicious.

We’ve joined Villa Sports recently. Linda wants to lose some weight and get back in shape. I enjoy having more equipment available to me than I had at work. Working part-time has allowed Linda to be able to upgrade the kitchen with granite counter tops and a new back splash. We really like how it turned out.

Jasmine is busy adjusting to 6^th grade, playing soccer, taking piano lessons and participating in church youth activities. She will turn 12 in March and is definitely in the pre-teen stage. She has started doing some babysitting this year to earn money.

Jason & Kristen are still in the Boston area. Jaden is in 1st, Jacob is in preschool, and Jude is keeping Mom & Dad busy at home. They are in the final stages of an addition to their home. They have added a two car garage and a master bedroom above and a family/dining area below. Jason continues to work for Brocade and Kristen is in school working on her nursing degree.

Joel & Tiawna are in Pueblo. Alejandra is in 1st and Ben attends preschool. Joel is finishing his basement when he is not working as a fire fighter. The construction is done, drywall up and awaiting taping and texture. So, they are not too far from completion. Tiawna has started working in a chiropractor's office and loves it.

Joy & John reside here in the Springs. Terrell is in 6th grade and active in wrestling and playing his violin. Mariah is in 2nd. Joy is expecting another girl in March. John is one of many that are struggling in the job market.

Janelle & Jeremy are still in Fountain. Janelle is attending college in Pueblo to complete her bachelor’s in biology and Jeremy still works for Carnival. Baileigh is attending kindergarten this year and likes being in school.

This summer we went to Oklahoma for the Kirk family reunion and enjoyed spending tim e with Linda’s family and boating. In August, Linda’s brother, Edd came to visit and then right after, Jason, Kristen and the boys came. It was great seeing everyone. In October, Linda went to her girl’s weekend in Hot Springs, Arkansas and had a good time.

We continue running the Coffee Café at church, which keeps us busy and we are also involved in a Wednesday night Bible study. All in all, we keep pretty busy. We are very thankful for God’s strength and blessings.

Merry Christmas to you,

Brian, Linda & Jasmine

Halloween

2009-11-07T07:41:00.001-07:00

The pictures are from Halloween. We went to Pueblo for a hayride and then ended up at a bonfire and roasted wieners and s'mores. We had a fun time.

Boy am I behind

2009-11-07T06:44:00.002-07:00

Or ahead, depending on how you look at it. I started a new job in August which is only suppose to be half time. Well, because it is a new job the learning curve is quite challenging so I'm putting in more hours that I should. However, it is getting better. (But don't ask Brian his opinion on the subject. : ) )

Jasmine also started a new school. This was definitely a challenge. The curriculum was extremely rigorous even for a 6th grader with two hours of homework each night. She would stay up until 9:30 some nights because of soccer or church and then have to get up at 6 to be at school by 7:30 and it wasn't close by. Needless to say, we decided, after much prayer and discussion that she could go back to her home school where there is an excellent curriculum but they are not expecting everyone to go to Harvard. I was having to relearn Latin, indirect objects, transition verbs, etc. and then try to teach it to her. She hadn't even learned this in English yet. She seems much happier which is a good thing and it's much easier on me.

I have been inundated with school classes to renew my certifications, and training to prepare for this job. So needless to say things have been really busy.

This week we had something every night. Monday's I have class until 7 pm. I'm taking a class called Reality Spanish. It is very interactive so that what we are learning sticks with us. Tuesday we had the end of the year soccer party at our house with 12 girls, parents, etc. It was fun but I'm glad soccer has come to an end. It definitely frees up more time.

Wednesday we got to go see Trans Siberian Orchestra at the World Arena. What an incredible show. It was Brian's first concert, so he's arrived. We left feeling a little deaf but had a great time.

Thursday night I went to the launching of Janelle's Arbonne debut. We had a good time and I was able to get some Christmas shopping done. Guess what everyone is getting this year? LOL

Friday night we had a Wedding to go to. We had lots of fun. Brian was not able to get off to go with us so we weren't able to enjoy the dancing but still had fun. (He had two fires yesterday, so he was very busy!)

This morning I awoke at 5 to Karli having diarrhea and throwing up on my just cleaned carpet. I was not a happy camper.

Today, I get my new chair which is finally finished and tonight we have coffee bar. So the reason you haven't heard from me is because I'm really, really, really busy.

After last week's snow storm this week has been gorgeous with lots of sunshine and in the 60's and 70's. 75 yesterday. I haven't been keeping up with anyone's blog but I'll try to do a better job. If I didn't have a cell phone with internet, I wouldn't even be keeping up with my email. Have a great day!

WOW!

2009-09-05T09:45:00.002-06:00

I'm in shock that I haven't written on my blog since July. So much has happened. We had great visits with my brother and Jason, Kristen and the kids in August, I got my new granite counter tops and started a new job. It is part time but of course they want me to work full time. Too much to do and so little time.

The job is moving slowly but I'm enjoying it. I love my new counter tops but now I need new applicances to go with them. Go figure. Always a wish list.

The weather here has been beautiful but definitely like fall. We are going horseback riding in a little while. That should be fun because it's such a nice day.

Jasmine is adjusting to her new school. Lots of homework. She has also started back with soccer and piano lessons so we are keeping really busy with activites and church.

I'm helping with women's retreat for our chuch. It is the last weekend of September. Then in October I'm off to my girl's weekend in Hot Springs, AR. I decided to fly instead of drive after the long, hot drawn out trip to Oklahoma this summer. I can't wait to see my girls. Should be lots of fun.

Happy 4th

2009-07-04T10:09:00.002-06:00

Today we celebrate an incredible gift. The gift of freedom. We are able to do, say or be anything we choose, unfortunately, even if it wreaks havoc on others. May we choose wisely in this great gift God has allowed us.

When I look back on other countries who have turned their back on God, He wasted no time giving them over to slavery. Are we headed in the same direction? I fear too much government control is in our future. There is already too much as far as I'm concerned.

Have a great 4th, everyone.

Busy Bees

2009-07-02T19:27:00.002-06:00

Much has happened since I last wrote. We made it to the Kirk family reunion and had a great time. The accommodations were less than stellar and way too expensive. Ugh! It was great to see the family. The heat index was 101. Hot, hot, hot.

I am starting a new job this fall at the old school where I taught when I retired. I'm really excited. It is a new position and I won't be teaching, I'll be writing the program, so I can create lots of fun things for students.

Today we went shopping for the coffee bar and then went to help Jasmine's new school put together their new furniture. Good thing Brian was there to help but I did pretty well following diagrams, if I do say so myself.

Jasmine has her first new job!!! She's going to be babysitting for a family. The little boy is sooo cute. He is two and calls her Jasmean. She will be getting paid $7 an hour. Not too bad for a first job. She made $10.50 today. This woman teaches at UCCS and needs some time to do projects and curriculum, so Jasmine entertains Danny for her so she can.

I was able to get a massage at 4pm and then we ended the day eating at Red, Hot and Blue one of my favorite places. Yum, yum!

Screwtape Letters

2009-06-15T14:51:00.003-06:00

I can't honestly say I enjoyed the Screwtape Letters. I had to force myself to read them. There was some humor to them but mostly it was a dismal book. It did bring out that the two most effective and powerful tools that Satan can use to undermine us are disappointment and anticlimax. Both tend to bring feelings of hopelessness and doubt. I see it time and again in everyday life. We get all excited about a situation or happening and then it doesn't turn out like we would want and we get discouraged or face despair. Without something greater to put our faith in it would be easy to lose hope. But if you believe that God is in control and has a purpose for us then it is easier to put disappointments behind us and move on.

End of the Week

2009-06-06T09:55:00.003-06:00

Jasmine finished her soccer camp this week. Brian and I went to watch her game yesterday and have a picnic with the other parents and kids. Her team won which was nice. I got to meet several parents who are sending their children to MacLaren this fall so that was nice.

Tomorrow Jas leaves for Camp Como for a week. So today we will spend the time packing and getting ready. She's a little apprehensive about going to camp with the middle school kids. I hope and pray all goes well.

Brian and I will have this week to ourselves. We have no plans but hope to get to the lake at least once. I have to get ready for M.A.D. camp the following week. My group is pink helicopters! So I need to get a sign made, door decorations, etc.

Today is such a gorgeous day. I've just been sitting at my pond drinking coffee and having devotions. Our yard is so green from all the rain. It is wonderful.

This Week

2009-06-02T08:40:00.003-06:00

Jasmine started soccer camp at the church this week from 9 to 12. Yesterday it was cloudy and today it is raining. She has had a spring cold so we're not going today. We may go see a movie and we definitely need to go clothes shopping for her. She is really growing tall.

Yesterday they delivered my new washer and dryer but it is taking some getting use to to learn all of the settings. I'm loving them, though. Finally, clean clothes.

Busy Weekend

2009-06-01T14:11:00.002-06:00

Friday morning I went to Janelle's and helped her paint her cabinets. Lots of hard work. Saturday morning Jasmine had tryouts for M.A.D. Camp and she got a solo. Saturday afternoon I went to an open forum on Jasmine's new school. Very interesting. I'm even more excited and convinced that this is the school for her. Saturday night Em, Jas and I met Janelle, etc. at Culvers before going to see Bailegh's recital. Good food. Baileigh stole the show. She blew everyone kisses as she left the stage. Then we went to Montagues and stuffed our faces again with decadent desserts.

Sunday we had coffee bar. We met Janelle, etc and went to see UP. Not at all what I expected. Funny but very sad, too. Sunday afternoon I had a M.A.D. Camp meeting because I'm going to be a group leader. Then we rushed off to book club at Emily's to discuss The Hobbit. Great food and company. I always enjoy our discussions which often times have nothing to do with the book.

Our next book is The Screwtape Letters by C.S. Lewis. I chose this one and we only have two weeks to read it. Should be a very interesting discussion!

Painting

2009-05-29T19:28:00.002-06:00

Today I went to Janelle's to help her paint the kitchen cabinets. They look great. I hope this will help she and Jeremy sell their house and move up north closer to us. It was a lot of work and I'm really tired.

Brian and I are watching a movie right now called Killshot. Mildly entertaining.

I'm amazed at the bureaucracy even in a store!

2009-05-28T18:13:00.002-06:00

I just spent 2 hours in Sears buying a washer and dryer. The poor guy went to ring up my sale and forgot something and tried to void out the sale and start again and the bureaucracy begins. It ended up charging my credit card twice and the credit guy couldn't understand what happened even after having it explained to him several times and wasn't having any of it. He asked if I had charged something else while I was in the store. I told him I'd been in the same spot for the past hour. Help! We finally got it straightened out. It took 3 people, including the manager to straighten it out. I was ready to scream when I left because I had kept my cool for so long. I hope God realizes I just earned a great reward of patience.

RV Hunting

2009-05-27T15:32:00.002-06:00

Brian and I went looking at RV's Monday and Tuesday. Then we decided our vehicle is too small and if we are going to do this we need to get a larger vehicle. Nothing is ever simple. So now we're back to square one, trying to decide what comes next.

Janelle and I had brunch today. Yummmmmm! We are going to tackle her kitchen cabinets on Friday.

We've been looking at a new school for Jasmine. It starts in the fall. It is called Thomas MacLaren School and I'm really excited about their philosophy. It is a charter school 6-12 through the state and not a district. One difference is that the boys and girls have separate classrooms so they can focus on learning. If you're interested in knowing more, go to http://www.maclarenschool.org/contactus.html. They require 4 years of Latin, 3 years of a modern language and thy have to participate in orchestra, choir, drama and art. I'm going to an open forum on Saturday to look at the tests and curriculum.

Endings

2009-05-21T09:56:00.002-06:00

Jasmine is graduating from 5th grade tonight. No more little girl. I'm off to buy a present for her. Brian is working today but has taken time off to night to come to the ceremony. Life seems to be holding many unknowns right now. I'm trusting God for resolutions. It gives my great peace.

Last cake!

2009-05-19T16:10:00.005-06:00

Here is the last cake I decorated. Brian finally uploaded all the pictures. It was lots of fun. Joy is definitely the queen of roses.

Also Jas did her bridging up to cadetts in Girl Scouts yesterday. She won't be doing Girl Scouts next year. Just too much going on. We raced over to the picnic after she got her medal from the soccer tournament. Which we had raced back from Durango to make her 12 o'clock game. Then she had a 3 o'clock game. Ugh. I'm tired.

Almost One Month

2009-05-19T09:17:00.008-06:00

Hard to believe that it has been almost a month since I have blogged. We've been incredibly busy with soccer, track, church and the list goes on and on. Finally things are slowing down. Soccer and track are over. Jasmine's soccer team took second in the Prodigy Cup tournament which is incredible for a team who just came together this season. She played goalee and mid forward most of the time. She also took second in her heat in track with the 50 meter dash. Me, I have come in first in being able to keep up. There were times when I wasn't sure if I would.

Brian and I went to Durango for the weekend and took the train to Silverton. The views were spectacular. We stayed in a beautiful old hotel called the Strater. The antiques in our room were so beautiful. I gained 3 pounds eating out but it was yummm! There was a Cold Stone two blocks away so we had ice cream each evening. Walking to and from should have helped some, huh!

I may be going back to work. I have applied for a job as an ACE coordinator with Bijou High School half time. I worked there right before I retired. It would be working with students and community to set up jobs, mentoring programs, job shadowing, etc. Time will tell if that is what I am supposed to be doing.

Jas's last day is on Friday. Then we can really start to relax. She will be going to Camp Como for a week the second week of June and then the next week MAD Camp starts and we'll both be busy with that. Next we head off to Oklahoma for a Kirk family reunion. Then June will be over. Hopefully July will be a much slower pace.

I've also included a picture of the tree ring Brian built for me. I've filled it with lots of shade plants. We've had lots of winter kill this time. We've replaced 2 bushes, a tree and some grass and flowers. Unfortunately that's part of living in Colorado. We want it to look like the midwest and it's dessert. We've finally been enjoying beautiful weather. High today 86.

Where's the sun????

2009-04-27T14:05:00.002-06:00

I woke up this morning and it looked just like it looked last Wednesday! Ugh!!!!

Beautiful Weather

2009-04-22T10:13:00.004-06:00

It is hard to believe that today it will be 72. Yeah! Who would have believed it looked like this one week ago. I love being able to be outside. Brian aerated the yard yesterday so hopefully our grass will come back. Having two dogs is tough on the yard.

Sick for the 1st time all winter

2009-04-21T16:30:00.005-06:00

I haven't been feeling well lately(chest cold) so I haven't been blogging. Jas and Brian went to the Daddy Daughter Dance on Saturday night called "When you Believe". It was a fairies theme. They had a great time and got to do two of the line dances that we had learned in our class. She's certainly growing up.

Tonight I get to go to the parent meeting at her middle school for next year to learn what is in store. School will be out in a month and elementary will be over. Time goes much too quickly.

Lots of pictures!

2009-04-16T14:22:00.008-06:00

I've included pictures of my pottery, my cake and Easter, so enjoy! The cake I decorated in my Wilton Cake decorating class. We had lots of fun but I now have a new appreciation for cake decorators. Getting the centering down is tricky.

We enjoyed having my brother with us for Easter. We did lots of shopping while he was here. Can you believe the snow on Easter? We're getting ready for another storm that is suppose to come in tonight.

Crafts, crafts, crafts.

2009-04-08T08:57:00.003-06:00

Yesterday was my last pottery class. I finished glazing another teapot and also found two bowls I didn't realize I had made. So I glazed those. I was able to see one of the pieces that had been glazed and fired. I couldn't take it because it was still too hot. But I'm so excited. It turned out really cool. I'll take pictures and post.

Joy and I took our first Wilton cake decorating class. We learned a lot but are now overwhelmed because we have to bake and ice a two layer cake for next week so we can decorate it. With Easter and all that's going to be tricky. We haven't ever colored Easter Eggs yet. We also have lots of supplies to purchase. Now that's more up my alley. Do people say that anymore? Do we still even have allies?

Today I head to the airport to pick up Edd. I realized he is flying into the Springs so I don't have to drive to Denver. Yeah!

Jasmine has a field trip to Jenkins tomorrow for orientation for middle school. It's getting closer and closer.

I did get all of my cleaning done so now I need to go shop for Easter Sunday. Ta, ta!

Busy,busy,busy!

2009-04-06T08:29:00.002-06:00

Too much to do and so little time! I need to clean, do laundry, blah, blah, blah! My brother is flying in on Wednesday so I'm trying to get ready for him and Easter.

Tomorrow is my last pottery class for a while. : ( Tomorrow night Joy and I begin taking our cake decorating classes. : )

Gotta go and get busy. See ya!

Wednesday Morning

2009-04-01T09:02:00.002-06:00

Wednesday and the week is zooming by. Yesterday was my next to the last pottery class. I worked on glazing another teapot. I learned to fix mistakes. My handle was cracked but I'm hoping the glaze will fix it. Next week I'll glaze my last teapot. I haven't done a lot this time but I've gotten some good pieces.

I ran errands all day yesterday. Today I'm going to run errands and then go and get my hair cut and colored. Can't wait. Snow is coming in this afternoon. Yeah spring in the Rockies!

We're moving our anniversary plans to May because my brother is coming for Easter. yeah!!!!!
It will be better to go to Durango in May anyway because the train goes all the way to Silverton. We're going to ride the Presidential car. How fun is that?

Jaz is enjoying soccer and is suppose to have her first game on Saturday but it is suppose to snow again. She is busy with band, choir, piano and golf lessons after school. Also boys seem to play a large part in her life now. Ugh!

I'm ready for warm days again so I can be outside. My pond just keeps calling me to be outside. While it was buried, Casey could hear the water running underneath and it was driving him crazy. He'd dig and dig and try to stick his head through all that snow. It was quite funny. It's still buried but you can see the water running now because of some melting. Hurry summer!

Monday Morning!

2009-03-30T10:54:00.004-06:00

It is snowing. Another springtime snow in the Rockies. It is suppose to snow off and on all week. My poor tree, which was getting ready to bloom, may have bit the dust. I hope not. It blossoms so beautifully. My pond is still buried but the water continues to fall.

Race to Witch Mountain was very entertaining. However, it scared Baileigh. Might be too much for little ones.

Brian is off to work and Jas is off to school. I'm just off! I'm trying to get laundry done, house picked up and catch up on finances for the coffee bar and women's retreat. I am planning on working on my quilt today.

Joy and I are going to take a Wilton Cake decorating class beginning next Tuesday evening, so I need to take my 40% off coupon and get my supplies. Martha Stewart watch out.

I'm Tired

2009-03-29T12:50:00.002-06:00

Did coffee bar last night and then this morning so I'm pooped. We're getting ready to go see Race to Witch Mountain. Should be cute.

Our pastor has been preaching on "For such a time as this" out of the book of Esther. He asks, "What is God preparing you to do and when the time comes, will you do it?" We saw a clip from the interview after the landing in the Hudson and the captain says God had been preparing him all of his life for that very moment. God clearly states that if you won't do it, he'll get someone who will.

Last night Eric said, God has called us to live with him. Where are we ever going to get a better offer? Good question!

Spring in Colorado

2009-03-25T09:46:00.002-06:00

It snowed last night. Not much but we do need the moisture. Now the sun is coming out so it will be gone by lunch. We are suppose to get a huge dump tomorrow and I have to drive to Denver to pick up friends at the airport. I hope it waits until evening to come.

Brian is sick with a cold and I'm doing the zycam thing to keep from getting it. He's probably not going to make it to work tomorrow. We were suppose to have our Bible Study group over tonight for a potluck but now that's not going to happen. At least my house is really clean now. For th moment anyway.

We are in the middle of spring break. I'm trying to make myself relax. It's not easy. Too much to do and so little time.

I read Jason's blog about "What would you do if you only had 30 days to live?" I've been thinking about that a lot lately and I don't know if I would change much. It would be too desperate, trying to get in everything. I would go to the beach though and live out my days there, hopefully with my family close by.

Birthdays

2009-03-23T13:16:00.005-06:00

Yesterday was Jasmine and Brian's birthdays. It was such a gorgeous day with 72 degrees. Our trees are leafing and we have had birds back in the yard, including a robin.

Jasmine had a party at Skate City. They had lots of fun. She and her cousin, Terrell won the limbo contest and Jas won red light, green light. So they got free Slurpees. She has such a nice group of friends. Terrell was the only guy there so the girls spent lots of time aggravating him.

Jas had started Pride Soccer practices on Tuesdays and Thursdays so things are becoming quite busy again. Today is cold and dreary.

I brought home my first completed teapot. So I'm including pictures of it. Also I'm including pictures of Jas's party. My pottery class is almost complete. I've decided not to take a class during the summer because there is too much going on and I would miss some classes. I worked on finishing two more teapots on Saturday. They take lots of time. So if you buy a teapot, don't complain about the price. : )

I'm not ready!

2009-03-18T09:21:00.002-06:00

Yesterday I realized that I only have two more pottery classes for this session. I spent most of yesterday's class glazing and realized I should have waited. It too forever to glaze my taco warmer using two different glazes and I made an incredible mess I had to clean up.

So today I'm going to open studio hoping to throw some pots so I can get them fired and glazed over the next two weeks. Wish me luck!

Long time!

2009-03-16T09:01:00.002-06:00

I didn't realize how long it had been since I had written. Last Saturday Jasmine had band ensembles. This Saturday we had book club. Marley and Me. Too sad.

We've been keeping up with Jasmine, doing coffee bar and I've been working on my pottery. Same ol", same ol". Today is catching up with laundry.

Jas starts soccer soon. We signed her up with Pride Soccer. It will certainly be different. We're much too busy. I wanted to try out for the melodrama our church is doing but I'm not sure I have the time. Next month I want to start the Wilton cake decorating classes. Too much to do and soooo little time.

Spring break starts next week. yeah!!!! Sleeping in!

Life is so fleeting!

2009-03-06T10:37:00.002-07:00

Life is so fleeting and people move in and out of our lives so quickly. That is why it is important to make the best of every relationship that you have. It is always hard when we lose special people that have touched our lives in a special way.

Today my best friend's mother passed away. She was such a nice person and such a fighter in spite of the pain she suffered. She kept a smile and didn't give up. What a legacy to leave.

21 Years

2009-03-04T08:43:00.002-07:00

Today is Brian and my 21st wedding anniversary. Hard to believe. Years of joy and heartache but we've weathered through and are closer than ever. We are truly blessed and work to keep God at the center of our relationship. I'm sure that that is why we are still together after all of these years with many years to come. : )

Unfortunately Brian is at work. We are planning to celebrate later. I'm going over to see him today because he is working a trade and was also working yesterday. It is going to be 72 today. it seems like spring. I'm sure the snow is just around the corner. We've hardly had any snow this winter. Mostly in the mountains.

Some days are like that

2009-03-03T17:18:00.002-07:00

It is 60+ degrees here today and I feel like I could ride around with the top down. I went to my pottery class today and wrecked pot after pot. My instructor told me that unless I was willing to take a piece to the limit I would never improve my skills so I did just that. I wrecked 4 or 5 pots. Not much production but I learned a lot.

Ever feel as though your emails go into a great void? I'm feeling that way now. If I don't communicate people whine and if I do I never hear back from people so I don't know if they got it or not. Such is life! Relationships are a lot like pottery. You can take them to the limit and if there is no response maybe it's time to bag it.

Catching Up

2009-03-02T11:06:00.002-07:00

Friday I met Janelle at Eddie Bauer. I'm turning into a shopaholic. Then I took Baileigh home with me to spend time with Jasmine. It was snowing when we left Eddie Bauer but it didn't last long.

Saturday Brian went to Janelle and Jeremy's to hang doors and I went to open studio to work on my pottery. I stayed 4 hours but I finished my taco dish and teapot. Teapots are lots of work. No wonder they cost so much. Jasmine stayed at Baileigh's for the night and Brian and I watched Leatherheads. Mildly entertaining.

Sunday was Em's birthday so she and I went over to Manitou for lunch and shopped for earrings. Then we came home because Janelle and Jeremy had taken Jas and Baileigh to It's and were ready to come home. Also Joel and Tiawna drove up to have dinner with her dad so we all ended up at our house to visit for a while. I made lattes for Jermey and Joel in our new ecspresso machine. Brian was working. : (

Today I'm suppose to be working on Jasmine's quilt but there seems to be too many interruptions with laundry, phone calls, etc. I need to refocus and get busy!

Shopping, shopping, shopping

2009-02-26T16:26:00.003-07:00

Brian and I went to Macy's this afternoon and had a great time shopping. We got some great deals. This is the perfect time to buy a winter coat. We even bought an espresso machine and Brian has already used it!

I'm excited about pottery!

2009-02-24T15:02:00.003-07:00

Today in class I was able to make my lid for my taco warmer. I hope the bottom fires OK. Then I made the base and a lid for a teapot. It was so fun. We learned how to make all kinds of lids. Saturday, I will be able to make the spout and handle for both projects. Very fun! I was able to bring home two pieces that I had made and glazed. I'm learning to do high fire glazes which are great to look at.

Brian and I met at Old Chicago's for lunch so we could go to an appointment for his hearing aids. I love being downtown. It is so much fun. Especially when the weather is 60 degrees like it is now. Spring fever here I come. I wanted to go to Saboz and look at shoes but there was no time. Maybe tomorrow because I have to go downtown and get my hair done.

Time is rushing

2009-02-23T05:36:00.003-07:00

Last week went fast. I had quilting, pottery, line dancing and church activities. I went to open studio on Saturday for my pottery and seemed to struggle with making a lid for my taco warmer. I made another bottom. I leaned a lot in the midst of my failures. I guess that's a good thing.

I had lunch on Wednesday with Becky Clippinger, who is now married. Then I ran into an old high school friend of Emily's, Andrew Moser. It was like a reunion this week. I had lunch with Janelle and Baileigh on Friday and went shopping. Janelle and I bought really cute jackets.
Friday night I had a Pampered Chef party. That was fun.

Jasmine was also very busy with homework and activities. Brian has been working and helping Jeremy and Janelle with their bathroom. He finally got the texture done.

We finished with Girl Scout cookies. yeah!

I had never seen the movie Footloose and now I know why.

I need to get ready for my quilting. I bought a small Janome sewing machine that weighs less than 5 pounds to take back and forth to quilting. That should make things easier.

Endless rambling. Have a good week.

Places I have been.

2009-02-16T14:33:00.003-07:00

visited 33 states (66%)
Create your own visited map of The United States or try another Douwe Osinga project

I liked Sarah's idea of the map. It was fun. Thanks, Sarah. I'm definitely missing the north!

Ugh!!!!!

2009-02-15T06:53:00.002-07:00

My body clock has been going off at 5:00 AM for the last several days! I wake up and can't go back to sleep. 6:30 would be soooo much better. Not sure what started this. I'm off to church and doing coffee bar again this morning. Then it's selling Girl Scout cookies this afternoon.

Nice Day!

2009-02-13T20:40:00.002-07:00

I got to see or talk with all of my children today. How nice. I had a meeting this morning on the women's retreat and then ran errands. Janelle came over later to do laundry. Joel drove up and shared pictures with us of their cruise, and Joy came over and picked up cookies to distribute at work. Now Jasmine, Baileigh and I are hanging out so her mom and dad could have a night out.

Taking it Easy

2009-02-12T19:32:00.003-07:00

Today Brian and I decided to take it easy. We are doing a study called Fireproof Your Marriage so we did that together. Then I worked on my quilt and got it laid out. Of course we ate lunch and played cards. Later we watched some shows we hadn't caught up on. Nice relaxing day.

I love my pottery class

2009-02-11T10:13:00.002-07:00

I had so much fun yesterday. The class goes way to quickly. I used my bats for the first time and made the bottom to a tortilla warmer. It's like giving birth but not nearly so painful.

We took our second line dancing class yesterday and that was fun.

Today I'm working on my quilt. I'm still cutting blocks so that I can piece it together. I'll take a picture once it is done.

We picked up cookies last night, so everyone, your cookies are in. Kristen expect a box in the next week. It would be fine if you wanted to come get them. Just kidding, but I miss you guys bunches.

Quilting

2009-02-09T13:43:00.002-07:00

I went to my quilting group today and had a great time. I was able to get all of my blocks sewn, so now I'm cutting them to size and then I will begin to put the blocks together. I'm really excited. It is a quilt for Jasmine. I would love to have it done by her birthday in March. Time will tell.

They are starting a new project next week but I'm not going to do it no matter how tempting. I need to finish the ones I've already started.

It is interesting that I have two comments on my blog I did on Sunday from someone I don't think I know. I checked the blog and still am clueless. Anyone else have any ideas?

Great Weekend

2009-02-08T19:33:00.002-07:00

Brian and I decided we would celebrate Valentine's day this weekend because next weekend will be so busy with everyone going out to eat, etc. We were able to go see a movie and go out to dinner Friday evening. Jasmine went to stay at Baileigh's for the night. We went to see He's Not That In To You. I really enjoyed it, as did Brian. It wasn't all that funny because it struck too close to the truth. Also I was suprised that a PG-13 movie was allowed to use f.....k. It definitely wasn't a movie for 13, 14 or 15 year olds. We went to the Craftwood Inn in Manitou Springs for dinner. Very special and intimate. Brian had Elk for the first time. I stuck to good old steak. Then we came home and sat in the hot tub.

Brian has hurt his back hauling drywall in the wind. Sometimes I wish he would ask for help. He's helping Janelle and Jeremy redo their bathroom so they can sell put their house on the market.

Saturday I met Janelle at Arts Sports and picked up Jas and rushed her to a Girl Scout Ice Skating event. Then she spent the rest of the day with her best friend, Holli. Brian worked sound booth at the church and I ran coffee bar Saturday evening. I also agreed to do registration for the women's retreat this fall. For those of you who have done this, you know it is no small feat. But I am looking forward to it.

Sunday, after church I went to have lunch with Janelle at Mimi's. Very enjoyable. It was nice to have time to talk without "Mom? Mom?" I came home and we sat down to watch Amber City with Jasmine. Mildly entertaining.

We capped off the weekend sitting in the hot tub tonight with the snow falling down. I don't think there is anything more special than that. It is so beautiful out. We're not suppose to get much snow.

Tomorrow it is off to quilting. I'm trying to finish off some projects I started last summer. : (

Having Fun!

2009-02-04T10:02:00.003-07:00

Yesterday was my second class in pottery. We learned to make plates, teapots, insulated cups, etc. What fun. I've started a teapot. Time will tell. It is definitely challenging.

Last night Brian, Jasmine and I went line dancing. We will be taking lessons all month. It was lots of fun. We learned Cupid's shuffle, the electric slide, and Going Home. Brian and I both agreed we would like to take ballroom dancing. Jas had lots of fun and knows some of the dances because they just completed a unit at school in dancing.

I've been doing protein shakes from Arbonne and green tea to try to lose some weight. Somehow it just crept up on me, I think while I was asleep.

Hopefully between the Wii Fit and line dancing I'll slim down. I'm up to a mile and a half running.

Update

2009-02-02T11:09:00.002-07:00

I just finished doing 25 Random Things About Me on Facebook. That was time intensive. As I said in there, I wish life weren't so complicated.

Yesterday we had lots of people over for the Superbowl. Jeremy was very happy that the Steelers won. I was rooting for Arizona. Several of us played Phase 10 and watched the game. It was a fun time.

For those of you not on Facebook, here are my 25 Random things:
1. My faith is the center of who I am. Without it I couldn't survive. I'm spending a lot more time reading the Bible and journaling.

2. Family is the second most important thing to me. I have an awesome husband.

3. I'm always questioning why? There are so many things I don't understand.

4. I am constantly thinking about my kids, how they are doing, what they are up too and wish they realized how much I love them.

5. I don't like talking on the phone so I'm not very good about calling people. I hate making small talk. It exhausts me.

6. I wear my feelings on my sleeve so I'm constantly feeling hurt about something no matter how trivial.

7. I have very little patience with stupidity. I'm very hard on myself and others.

8. I wish other people would read my mind.

9. I hate exercise but I hate being overweight even more.

10. I hate growing old.

11. I wish life were less complicated.

12. I love being a mom in spite of the heartache it brings.

13. Two things I need, as much as I need to breathe, are alone time and nature (sunshine, trees, grass, water.

14. I never feel as if I'm doing enough.

15. I hate feeling out of control.

16. I love water, the ocean, lakes and would love to live on the water before I die.

17. I am empathic when it comes to other peoples' pain. I feel their pain, emotionally and physically. I really hurt when my kids are hurting.

18. I hate it when people take me for granted or take and take and never give back.

19. My main goal at the moment is survival.

20. I love creating things, home, quilts, pottery, etc.

21. I'm constantly putting my foot in my mouth. It makes it hard to get around.

22. I love music and love to sing.

23. I feel I'm constantly being misunderstood because I don't express myself well.

24. I hate confrontation but am working on it.

25. I love getting lost in reading adventure stories, movies and games. Sometimes, I'd just like to get lost.

The Power of Prayer

2009-01-29T14:14:00.002-07:00

Brian and I just finished a movie called The List. If you liked The Ultimate Gift you would probably enjoy this movie although it is a little scary, good vs. evil. It is all about the power of prayer and using it to fight evil.

I ran almost a mile and a half today. Yeah!!! I worked out a little too hard today because at the end of my workout, I couldn't do well on the skiing. I'm up to 5 hoola hoops. Wii Fit is definitely fun!

Where did my sleep go?

2009-01-28T16:50:00.002-07:00

For the past several nights, sleep has been short. Last night, after getting up, I couldn't go back to sleep. I finally did and then Jas had a bad dream and wanted to come in our room. I got back to sleep after much tossing and turning and then the alarm on my phone went off. I had set Girl Scouts at 4:30 am instead of pm. Ugh! 6:30 came very early. Maybe tonight will be better.

My Pottery Class

2009-01-27T15:05:00.002-07:00

Well, I started my second class. I was afraid I had forgotten everything but I was able to make two bowls today and I learned a lot of new things. I'm so excited.

I started the boxing on the Wii Fit and my arms are really sore this morning. Working the clay helped to work some of that out.

It is cold, cold, cold! Brrrrrrr

Busy Weekend

2009-01-26T07:08:00.004-07:00

It was a busy weekend, starting with Book Club Friday night here and Jasmine going to Garden of the Gods with her Girl Scout Troop to stay in a cabin overnight.

Saturday morning I went with Jeremy, Janelle and Baileigh to look at a house close to us. It was a very cute house with lots of potential but it was very small and what a mess. Real stuffed animals everywhere and clothes and junk everywhere. You really had to look past the stuff to see its potential. Jeremy and Janelle decided they wanted more room and I can't blame them.
Saturday afternoon I picked up Jasmine from camping and went to do the coffee bar at the church.

On Sunday we went to Joel and Tiawna's for Ben's birthday. He will soon be 3 years old. Joel and Tiawna have been working to improve their home. It looks really nice. We had a nice visit with Tiawna's family. Her aunt and uncle have just adopted a little girl from China. She is so cute. I will post pictures of the get-together soon.

Today is cold and snowy with a whopping 2 degrees with a windchill of -4. Ugh! I feel so blessed to be in a nice, warm home.

Wii Fit

2009-01-23T09:53:00.002-07:00

I love doing the Wii Fit. It is so much fun and really gives you a good workout without realizing how much you are doing. My legs and thighs have been so sore this week because I have been doing downhill skiing, balancing, etc. The strengthening exercises are difficult for me but I know I will get better with time. I would recommend it to anyone who wants to excercise and have fun. I hate exercising but this is great.

Comfort

2009-01-19T11:09:00.002-07:00

Brian and I bought a new memory foam mattress topper for our bed. It is wonderful. The downside is that it added bulk to the bed so that our sheets no longer fit and the bedspread is 6 inches shorter. ugh! The things we do for comfort.

Jasmine went to a lock-in at the church last night and so was up most of the night. They had lots of fun playing games, etc. But now she's fast asleep in our bed because she says it's so comfy.

I'm off to clean the back yard. Dogs are a lot of work!

Our Bible Study

2009-01-17T10:46:00.002-07:00

Our small group just finished reading James which I found very convicting. Now we are starting 1st and 2nd Peter. Each of these studies are done by Max Lucado and called Life Lessons. This one is entitled BETWEEN THE ROCK AND A HARD PLACE, which is a much nicer and hopeful way to put it. It is all about hopeful living. Max ends the first lesson by stating, "We will always face difficulties, but we can face them assured that the Lord is with us, and he will see to it that his purposes are accomplished in us. That is hopeful living!" So true, so true.

Cookie Mom again

2009-01-16T09:46:00.002-07:00

Well, it's that time again. Jasmine has been busy selling cookies. They changed back to the original cookie vendor. Yeah!

Thanks to Joy, she sold over 35 boxes at Penrose to Joy's boss and coworkers. She is very lucky to have such great family support.

Booths start in February. Maybe the weather will cooperate. It is supposed to be 56 here today. It can get awfully cold standing outside at this time of year. We went to Brian's station yesterday and his crew also bought cookies from her. People have been awsome this year in spite of the economic downturn. : )

Dance Revolution

2009-01-15T10:43:00.004-07:00

As some of you already know, I have started doing the workout on the Wii Dance Revolution. I'm finally getting the hang of it. It also helps to turn off the voice which keeps telling you how bad you are doing!

I got up to a C rating today. Yeah! However, on Tuesday, Emily did it with me and after a short time was doing B ratings. I chalk it up to youth. : )

The difference with the Wii and Playstation 3 is that you have to use your arms with the Wii, so you are having to watch both feet and arms. Takes lots of coordination of which I am somewhat lacking; so a C rating feels really good! I'm hoping to get the Wii Fit soon and start doing that also. It looks like fun and I hate exercising.

Jeremy's Birthday

2009-01-13T08:19:00.004-07:00

As I had mentioned, we celebrated Jeremy's birthday on Saturday. Joy was home with Mariah, who was sick, and Emily wasn't feeling well. So it was a smaller group. I've posted some of the pictures. Enjoy!

Pictures

2009-01-12T18:46:00.002-07:00

Some of you may have noticed that I have deleted a lot of the pictures on my blog. You can still access them by clicking on the photos still on my blog and you will get to my web albums. I have uploaded Christmas pictures from 2008 but most happened before Christmas and some include Christmas Eve at Lisa and John's. Most of the family pictures were done on the video camera so we didn't get many single pictures of the family event. : (

Long Week

2009-01-12T09:07:00.002-07:00

It was a long week but things are definitely looking up. I thank God every day for being in my life, giving me strength and purpose to get through each day.

It is really snowing here today and cold. The dogs don't even want to go out to the bathroom. ugh! Karli is fine but I have to watch Casey like a hawk.

We celebrated Jeremy's birthday on Saturday night. Lots of fun. We played Phase 10 and Taboo. Of course we had the playoff games on the whole time. Jeremy is ecstatic that the Steelers are doing so well.

Chasing after the wind

2009-01-07T08:48:00.003-07:00

Last fall our pastor challenged us to read Proverbs. So I started reading a chapter each day and journaling my thoughts afterward. I finally finished because I had Bible study to do in between. Now I'm starting on Ecclesiastes.

The book is uplifting, depressing and inspirational. Chapter 1 talks about how once we are gone we will be remembered by others for only a short time and then we will be forgotten. But God remembers us forever and what we do here on earth should be meaningful only to him. So if we follow his direction and do his will, all else is meaningless.

Solomon states that with much wisdom comes great sorrow. I've thought about this and realize that, the more I know and try to understand God the less I seem to understand. God has allowed free will to all, both good and evil. The evil is hard to accept and understand because with it comes much suffering, especially for those who don't know God. But suffering also comes to those of us who do know God because we live in a fallen world where evil works hard to prevail.

Chapter 2: Nothing we do is so great that we can avoid death. We will never have enough to fulfill us. After we die, all we have will be passed on and we will be forgotten. Our life should be pleasing to God rather that satisfying the demand of the world. Chasing worldly things is futile. God wants us to pursue fellowship with others, service to others, love, and to value others. The rest, as Solomon says, "is a chasing after the wind."

There is definitely a message here on how we should be living our lives. How many of us our chasing after the wind?

Poor Trees!

2009-01-06T08:26:00.002-07:00

I just threw out close to 100 catalogs that I have received over the last few months. What a waste when you can go online and place an order. When are they going to get a clue?

Edd gave me a Laura Croft game called Legend which I am enjoying! Right now I keep getting killed because I have to ride a motorcycle, avoid obstacles and shoot bad guys at the same time and the whole thing is timed. Too much coordination.

Vacation is almost over!

2009-01-05T13:53:00.002-07:00

I slept in until 7:30 today after going to bed at 10:00. Nine and a half hours. Unbelievable. Good thing too because Brian was off today and had 50+ errands for us to run.

Jasmine went home with Baileigh last night after Baileigh spending the night at our house. Then Janelle took them ice skating this morning. In the meantime we picked up Jasmine's friend, Holli, because her dad needed to go to Denver. So now Holli is here and they are getting ready to make cupcakes. Jasmine has had lots of sleepoers this vacation. She goes back to school on Wednesday.

I've been trying to run down the Wii Fit so that I can get started excercising. No luck so far. So I have a few days of repreive. I guess I'll just have to finish off the truffles and chocolate and carmel apples that are left from the holidays. How sad! : )

2009

2009-01-01T10:58:00.002-07:00

HAPPY NEW YEAR, everyone! We didn't make it until the new year. Too tired! We played Clue, watched Space Chimps, and went in the hot tub. Nice evening and ending of 2008 for the 3 of us.

Today I'm getting organized! I'm throwing out everything that we don't need anymore. My office is a mess so I'm pitching, pitching, pitching. I'm looking forward to the new year to see what God has in store for us.

According to Max Lucado "Prayer should be the default setting for a Christian's life." His devotional prayer is: Father, I cherish your promise to answer my prayers. And yet I often come to you with muddled ideas, unsure of what is best, uncertain of your will, and unwilling to wait patiently for your answers. I thank you, Father, for the assurance that my imperfect prayers cannot hinder your incredible power.

The God who created the universe can answer my simple, muddled prayers. So this year I'm vowing to have an even more effective prayer life. May God bless each and everyone of you during this new year.

The Last Lecture

2008-12-31T11:57:00.002-07:00

I just finished reading The Last Lecture for our book club. What an incredible book. It is not a book about death, it is a book about living, living our childhood dreams, living life to the fullest and being a contributing member of society in a positive way. It definitely made me think about childhood dreams I had and how many of them I have fulfilled. I highly recommend it.

Brian and I made our 2009 goals today. We also sat down with Jasmine and had her set some goals for herself. This will be a new endeavor. Looking back on 2008 we did not do as well as we would have liked. More to aspire to, right?

Catching up

2008-12-30T17:44:00.002-07:00

We had a wonderful Christmas. I will try to post pictures soon. I had to take my brother to the airport today. That is always sad. I wish he were closer.

Jasmine and I went horseback riding today with my friend, Lisa up at the Air Force Academy. It was a beautiful and perfect day. Just right, 58 degrees. You are able to rent the horses and then take them on the trails without a guide. Jasmine had a wonderful time and did really well. I can't wait to do it again. I'm sure I'll be sore tomorrow.

The Holidays

2008-12-20T11:43:00.002-07:00

Jasmine's last day of school was yesterday. I'm looking forward to sleeping in and having some down time. I've gotten all of my shopping finished and all of the packages wrapped. Now it is time to start baking.

I'm making Chex mix and getting ready to make Christmas cookies. Last year I tried to start a tradition of having all of the grandkids come over and make cookies. This year has just been too busy so that's not going to happen.

Edd arrives on the 23rd. He sent us five pounds of red and green M & M's with our names on them. It was such a fun surprise. We get to add new people to our celebration this year. John, Joy's new husband and Tobin, his brother will be joining us. We're looking forward to having them as part of the family. We are very sad that Jason, Kristen and the boys can't join us. We're praying very hard that they will be able to move back home soon!

We sent most of our Christmas cards by email this year to cut down on the expense. Not nearly as pretty but still very effective. Some of my family, I don't have email for so they get the snail mail. I'm off to bake cookies and stir Chex mix.

Happenings!

2008-12-16T10:15:00.002-07:00

Today was our last day to have Mariah. Joy and John got into town last night and will be picking her up after school. It went quickly.

Brian's mother is coming to spend the night tonight and then Brian will be taking her to the airport in Denver tomorrow morning.

Saturday we celebrated Baileigh's birthday. Sunday we went to Jasmine's Program and then to our book club Christmas Party. We read The Bookseller of Kabul. I quite tired of books about eastern culture. Too sad! We decided all of the books for next year. We have quite a list. I'm going to be doing The Last Lecture by Randy Pausch. Another sad book. They say you will learn a lot about yourself reading this book. I'm reading a book right now that is definitely making me think. My Soul to Keep by Melanie Wells. It's about spiritual warfare and is a fictional, Christian, suspense. It's forcing me to look deep into my soul and ask "who am I really?" What do I really think and feel about people and things? It is definitely not the side I always choose to show if I allow myself to dig deeply.

Today I entered the world of ooVoo so that I can video cam with others. It is so great to see people when you talk to them and they are so far away. Brings us all closer. It is a free program. So if you have a web cam, come join me.

Christmas Shopping

2008-12-12T18:12:00.002-07:00

I'm all done with presents. Now I just have a few stocking stuffers and I'll be finished. Brian and I found some great sales.

Jasmine's program starts tonight. Tomorrow we celebrate Baileigh's birthday and then Sunday, more program and our bookclub party. Now I'm off to make cookies for the cookie exchange.

I heard from John. He and Joy are having a wonderful time in the Caribbean!

My biggest accomplishment today is getting my phone synced with my MAC. Now I hope I never have to use XP again! : ))))))

Joy's Wedding

2008-12-10T20:50:00.001-07:00

Because there were 235 pictures, I'm going to ask you to go and view my web albums to see all of the wedding pictures. There is a mixture of the rehersal dinner the night before and the wedding. Enjoy!

Lots happening

2008-12-10T10:25:00.002-07:00

So much has been happening recently that I haven't had time to blog. My class is finally finished. I still have to pick up my pieces which need to be fired. We've also been busy with the coffee bar.

Then there was Thanksgiving and the wedding. So we've been really busy. At Thanksgiving, Joy's soon to be in-laws spent Thanksgiving with us. It was nice to meet everyone and get to know them. Then, I had to decorate the house, clean, etc. for dinner here after the rehearsal. Jason, Kristen and Jude were able to come for the wedding. It was great seeing them and spending time with our grandson. We celebrated Jason's birthday on Sunday before they left to go home. We hated seeing them go and hope they will be moving back sometime soon.

Mariah, Joy's daughter, is staying with us while Joy and John are on their honeymoon. She is in first grade and goes to school downtown. So I've been transporting her back and forth to school which takes about 30 minutes each way. Joy and John left early on the 7th and will be back on the 17th. Yesterday, the girls had a late start because of lots of snow. Last night was Jasmine's school program. The church Christmas program is this next weekend and Jasmine is in that, so she had dress rehersal Monday night. Tonight we have a Girl Scout Party and then Bible Study. This weekend are programs, the North Pole, Baileigh's birthday, etc. I'm looking forward to some down time when school goes on break.

I have uploaded pictures from Thanksgiving and the wedding which turned out beautifully. Joy made a beautiful bride. We really enjoyed the day. Take care and don't freak out if you don't hear from me so often right now.

Time Flies!

2008-11-26T08:47:00.002-07:00

It's hard to believe it has been one week since I blogged. Too much going on. I went in last Saturday and finished trimming my pots so that they could be fired. Our last class is next week so I have to get all of them glazed during that class.

I've been getting ready for Thanksgiving and Joy's wedding, cleaning, etc. Tomorrow is the big day and then next weekend is the wedding. Also, I had no idea how much time the coffee bar was going to take up with stocking and manning it. Lots of work! Sales have been down with the turn in the economy. Not as many coffee drinkers.

Janelle is bringing Baileigh over in a little while to play with Jasmine while Janelle and I go to the antique mall to shop. I have been wanting to go there to see what Laurie's, from Gatherings, booth looks like and what she has. See you later!

What happened to Thanksgiving?

2008-11-20T09:04:00.002-07:00

I'm feeling very disoriented lately. Did I miss Thanksgiving? They are already playing Christmas music on several stations and we haven't even had the turkey. Trees, decorations, etc. were out before Halloween. Christmas is becoming so commercial. I have to remind myself we haven't had Thanksgiving yet. Things are very confusing.

Yesterday I rode around with the windows down and could have had the top down, and today it is 27 and trying to snow. It's hard to figure out what time of the year it is with all of the warm weather we've been having. Our grass is still really green and some of my plants have continued to bloom. So they are just as confused as I am.

Pottery

2008-11-19T15:11:00.005-07:00

Today we learned how to do Raku firing. It was really fun. You use a special glaze, then you put it in a kiln and heat it to about 1800 degrees. When it is close to being heated, you dig a hole in sand, fill it with newspaper shredding, get a can and put shredding in it also. You take your pottery out with gloves and tongs and put it on top of the newspaper, where it promptly catches on fire. You pour more shedding on it and cover it and bury it in the sand for an hour. It comes out with incredible oxidized colors. Then you dunk it in cold water. We had lots of fun. I have one more class the week after Thanksgiving so I have to go this Saturday to an open class to finish trimming my pots. So much to do and so little time. (Getting true color when taking pictures is almost impossible.)

It is 65 out and I rode home with all of the windows down. Tomorrow it is suppose to snow.

Health Screening

2008-11-18T15:38:00.003-07:00

Brian and I had to fast for twelve hours in order to take a health screening today. We had our blood pressure, cholesterol, and body mass checked. I was a little over on the blood pressure but I'm not concerned. Also my cholesterol was high but I have lots of good cholesterol to counter it. My fat to body mass was good. Yeah! We are going to join a gym so that should take care of the blood pressure and cholesterol. Of course Brian is doing great because he works out at work all the time.

However, his blood pressure may be a little high right now because he couldn't get a knew notebook computer to work and had to take it back, and now his desktop computer is acting up. Technology can be bad for your health.

Great weather

2008-11-17T12:59:00.002-07:00

Yesterday was such a nice, relaxing day and the Broncos won! Jasmine completed her project and now has a 248 page book to read for a report by the 1st of December. She likes to read for short periods but would much rather be active. So this could be a long book.

Brian has been playing a golf game on line with Jason and Joel. Yesterday, Brian had the web cam up so I got to see and talk with Jason. What a nice treat. Joel was too busy concentrating on the game. All three are very competitive.

Today we have been running errands and getting things done around the house. Brian was afraid his computer had crashed but luckily he was able to get it to finally boot. We are definitely going to have to back up our pictures again. Scary!

I'm on my way to Jasmine's school to work in the library for an hour. It is suppose to be mid 70's tomorrow. I can't believe this weather.

Brrrrr!

2008-11-15T14:58:00.002-07:00

Last night we sat in the hot tub and it was 23 degrees outside. Getting in and out was a bear! We watched Mad Money and Get Smart beforehand. Mindless comedy. Entertaining but not wonderful.

Today Jasmine and I had to be at the church to open the Coffee Cafe for the Christmas Craft Fair. 100 vendors were there. Lots of neat stuff.

Jasmine is going to a Lock-in at the YMCA with the Girl Scouts. She is currently working on a history report on Jacques Cartier. Brian is working so I get some time to myself. Yeah me!

Where does the time go?

2008-11-13T10:39:00.002-07:00

I can't believe it is already Thursday! I'm listening to music that Emily downloaded for me on my i tunes last night. She gave me her old i pod and then spent the evening downloading hundreds of songs for me to listen to on my computer and my i pod. I'm so excited. I've really been avoiding music these last four years because it conjures up so many memories and makes me cry. But I've decided it is time to move on and enjoy one of my most precious gifts. I'm still crying at times but it's healing too. Some of the artists are new to me and that's a good thing. I'm expanding my repetoire.

Brian has been spending lots of time loading my old albums onto the computer and converting them to mp3 files so I have been able to load most of those, too. I'm a lucky duck!

I spent Monday putting up my village. I've definitely run out of space. I need a separate room. Pathetic, huh?!

Yesterday was my last day to throw pots. We will spend the next two weeks trimming and glazing. It's almost over. What incredible fun it has been. I'm planning on taking another class in January. I still have lots to learn.

This is a busy time of year anyway. Add in a wedding a time just flies. It is suppose to be 63 today and 30 tomorrow with snow. Everyone have a blessed day.

Our Weekend

2008-11-10T08:30:00.004-07:00

Friday night we used our hot tub for the first time. It is sooo nice. We are really enjoying it. We spent Friday afternoon and evening looking for a dress for Jasmine for the wedding. We hit every retail store in the city. There aren't any white dresses available in her size. I'm heading for the consignment shops next. I don't want to have to make anything. There is no time. Jasmine has no school tomorrow so maybe we can find something.

Saturday night, Jasmine brought two friends home to spend the night. They enjoyed the hot tub. Brian and I were too tired.

Sunday, Brian spent the day redoing his office and mine. Mess, mess, mess.

Today I'm going to start putting up my New England village. We are suppose to go horseback riding later on. It is suppose to snow and rain today.

Frustration

2008-11-07T09:11:00.002-07:00

I have been so frustrated using Picasa 3 and trying to upload pictures. It shouldn't be that complicated. I finally got accomplished what I wanted. I still have a lot of junk on my Picasa from it pulling up picture icons. : (

I'm busy getting Jasmine's Girl Scout vest ready for the Veteran's Day parade on Saturday. She has badges I haven't sown on yet. Too much to do and so little time. I thought I was retired!

Hopefully we can use the hot tub tonight. It should have heated up by now.

We have been contemplating and debating new office furniture for Brian's office. As of yet we still haven't made a decision. Also I'm working on parts of Joy's wedding. It is only one month away. She and the kids will be moving in with us for about a week before the wedding and then we will be keeping Mariah while she goes on her honeymoon. It is a very exciting but busy time.

Our New Hot Tub

2008-11-05T14:55:00.004-07:00

They delivered our hot tub today! We filled it up but the water will not be ready until tomorrow. I can't wait.

I went to class today and two of my things were ready to take home. I'm including a picture as requested. I learn new things each week. My teacher says that unless I'm willing to reck some pieces that I'm never going to get any better. It's hard to wreck them but I seem to manage anyway. Three more classes and it's over. I plan on taking another class next year, starting in January.

I have to focus on the mundane so I don't think about the election. I am trusting that God knows what He is doing.

I'm resting today

2008-11-04T09:25:00.003-07:00

Yesterday we redid a garden area to be able to put in our hot tub. We moved (my poor honey did most of the moving) a ton and a half of pea gravel. First I had to did up and replant plants. Then Brian dug out about 4 inches of dirt so that we could put the gravel in. I went and bought a 4 X 4 to separate garden and rock, Brian cut it down and then Brian moved rock and I raked it in. It looks great. Tomorrow they are delivering our hot tub. I can hardly wait. I would have loved to be able to get in it last night. Both Brian and I said our backs are sore today.

Big day today! Everyone get out and vote!

Nice Weekend

2008-11-02T10:51:00.003-07:00

Friday night, Jasmine went Trick or Treating with friends from the neighborhood and their mom. Brian and I went to the church to help out with the Harvest Festival. The ladies ran the air jumper and the guys ran the spud gun booth. There were lots of booths and lots of things to do and sooo many people. Some of the kids didn't want to get out of the jumper when their time was up but other than that it was fun. Afterward we went to Village Inn for pie and coffee to avoid the Halloween crowd. The weather was so warm, (first time in 30 + years, that I can remember). So our neighborhood was inundated with kids.

Saturday, Jasmine went to Denver to participate in the Bible Bowl. Her team came in 8 of 10 which wasn't too bad considering this was their first time. She said she had fun. Brian and I decided to go out for breakfast and then to a movie to see Fireproof. We really enjoyed it. Afterward there were lots of women in the bathroom sniffing and blowing their noses. We also bought a hottub. yeah! So now we are going to spend Monday preparing a place to put it. We have to dig up flowers. lay pea gravel, etc. I'm glad the weather is staying so beautiful. Last night we went to church and then Jasmine spent the night with a friend who is having a birthday party today at Arts Sports. Needless to say we haven't seen much of Jasmine this weekend. She is very busy.

Today, I'm being lazy, while Brian is at work and Jasmine is at the birthday party. Yeah, me!

Overcoming fear!

2008-10-30T10:46:00.004-06:00

I went to my class yesterday and learned to glaze and throw a plate. Both are very complicated. I hope I can overcome my fear and just enjoy and go with it. But after you put so much work into something, you hate to mess it up with glaze. The glazes I liked the best, I can't use because of the kind of clay I have used. They are high fire glazes and my clay is for medium glazes. So I'm going to try high fire clays later. On Saturday I want to go and try to make a tortilla warmer. That's why I learned to throw a plate. You use the same techniques. I see the work of people who have been doing this for years and am so amazed at what they have created. It gives me hope and something to aspire to.

Jasmine is off from school these next two days because of conferences. I went to her conference on Tuesday evening and was pleased by the work that Jasmine is doing. She seems to be having a better year. I just want her ready for middle school. I made my frustrations known to her teacher about better communication and hope he will do better with this. Waiting 2 1/2 months for information on how she is doing is not acceptable.

We plan to go to see High School Musical 3 while she is off and of course there is Halloween. Brian and I will be helping with the Harvest Festival at our church.

Soooo Tired

2008-10-28T08:34:00.003-06:00

Our weather has been so gorgeous. What an incredible fall and it smells so good. I was able to sit outside and have my devotions although my pond is now shut down and the fish are hibernating. Yesterday I ran errands and cleaned. Last night I had dinner with friends. Very relaxing.

At 3:30 am Jasmine woke us up, telling me that Casey had thrown up in her room; so I got up and cleaned the carpet and let Casey outside. Then when everyone was settled back in bed I couldn't go back to sleep. So I'm really dragging today. I may just veg and read. A nap is definitely in order.

The Weekend

2008-10-27T09:28:00.003-06:00

It went really fast. Friday night Jasmine had a friend spend the night. Saturday she went home with her friend, Holli, who just got a new Golden Retriever, 7 weeks old. Sooo cute!

I went and worked on my pottery Saturday morning. I trimmed two pots and threw two. I also managed to trash two because I'm trying to push my limits in lifting and forming. My previous work was out of the kiln and looks like real pottery. We are going to start learning to glaze on Wednesday. I can't wait.

Saturday night we had coffee bar and Brian played with the church band. Sunday Brian worked so Jasmine and I went to church. Jasmine is in Bible Bowl and has a meet in Denver next Saturday. She only has three days of school this week because of conferences on Thursday and Friday. We came home after church and Jasmine did chores for the rest of the day until we had to leave to go to Denver to pick up Emily. Em had a wonderful visit with her Dad and Shirley. He took her target practicing and she got to see lots of her relatives that she hasn't seen in a while.

Tonight the ladies from our Bible Study are going to Mimi's for dinner. Yum! We are doing pastor appreciation this month so I need to make 8 cards to hand out on Thursday. I also need to clean since you can write your name on all of the furniture. Too much to do and so little time. It is suppose to be in the 60's and 70's all week so it will be hard not to want to just sit outside.

Cookie Mom

2008-10-23T07:26:00.003-06:00

For all of you cookie lovers, Jasmine has decided to stay in Girl Scouts. She quit choir instead since she does kids' choir at church. Working on responsible habits continues to be a challenge.

Em left to go to her dad's in Montana for 5 days. Janelle took her to the Denver airport yesterday. They made a stop at a pet shop, where Janelle and Jeremy had bought a puppy. Emily has decided she wants a puppy also, a Maltichon. (probably didn't spell it right) She's going to get it when she gets back. Then they went to lunch at the Cheese Factory and on to the airport.

I had lots of fun at pottery yesterday. I bought good clay and using this is so much better. I was able to do a lot more with my designs. I've already had twelve pots fired and we get to glaze next week. : )

It continues to be cold here, high today 53. Good thing Brian and I took care of all the outside pond, sprinklers, etc. It is getting below freezing at night.

Today I get to finish cleaning carpets, do some painting and laundry. Do I know how to have fun or what?

Frustration and Joy

2008-10-22T08:43:00.002-06:00

We woke up to our first snow. It was very pretty. It is very windy and cold right now. The dogs didn't like going out at all. Me neither. Big babies.

Well, Jasmine left the house 10 minutes after school had started this morning and without her clarinet. I'm sure her day is not going to go very well. I can't tell you how hard it is to let her do this but Fay and Cline say early failure teaches future responsibility. I had to bite my tongue, smile and say have a good day. I love you. What I wanted to do was yell and scream!

I'm getting ready to go to my pottery class. I can't wait. The sun is out so the snow will probably be gone by noon.

Survival!

2008-10-21T08:10:00.002-06:00

I started rereading the book Diciplining with Love and Logic by Jim Fay and and Foster Cline. It is about raising responsible kids. Brian and I were feeling frustrated because we felt we were the ones being responsible for Jasmine getting up in the morning, getting to school on time, etc. So I followed their advice. We sat down and talked with Jasmine about being responsible for getting herself up and to school and what that looked like and what she would need to do. It is so hard not to say anything once you set on this course. She made it to school today with four minutes to spare. I decided if she was late, the school would have a natural consequence instead of us hounding her.

We are also following that tactic with her not picking up her things. She has until dinner to pick up her room, bathroom, etc. Anythings she leaves lying around after that is mine to keep, forever. No reminders, etc. That's hard when you are use to sometimes being a helicopter mom. It helps me though because I don't have to hound and coerce. She has to take the responsibility. She lost several things yesterday and it is hard for me to get rid of perfectly good things but I know that is the only way it will work. Hopefully today will be a better day. Both of us are learning. I'm learning to let go. It is definitely a lot less stressful.

We've Come a Long Way Baby!

2008-10-20T08:39:00.005-06:00

I was catching up on everybody's blogs and read Jason's blog about our visit to David's Bridal on Friday evening to see Joy's wedding dress. Janelle, Joy's friend Amanda, Jasmine and eventually Em (because she had to work) met Joy there to help her pick out a wedding dress.

Technology is amazing. Janelle had downloaded to her phone a program that Jason had recommended. So, because she has a web package on her phone, she was able to send live video feed to Jason and Kristen's computer since they were in Massachusetts. They got to be with us while Joy was trying on dresses and participate in the experience. I called them and stayed on the phone with them the whole time since there was no sound feed and gave them a blow by blow of what was happening. Technology is amazing.

Jason said the lag time was a little disconcerting at first but they finally got use to it. Janelle's phone died toward the end. They need to perfect the battery life of phones and things would be much better. We've come a long way, baby!

Web Albums

2008-10-19T15:03:00.000-06:00

I wanted to let you know that I have made my web albums public for you to view if you are interested. They are on Picasa Web Albums. Enjoy!

Long Time No See!

2008-10-19T14:14:00.003-06:00

Well, I have lots to catch up on. I just returned on Wednesday from my weekend with my girlfriends from home. I flew into Atlanta and Glenda picked me up from the Marta. We stayed a Chris's apartment again. He is so generous. Glenda has raised him well. There were nine of us this time. Nancy couldn't make it. We stayed in the same cabin that we were in last year. Gorgeous, gorgeous, gorgeous. We had such a nice time and a great visit. Of course we ate and ate and ate. The food was awesome thanks to the twins. I got the bracelet this year. For those who don't know we purchased a bracelet about 20 years ago and pass it to someone each year. I've already had it once and this is my second time. Just think, all of us have worn it over the past twenty years. The things it has seen and done!!!

On Saturday I went to my pottery class and trimmed all of my pots so they are ready to fire. I'm anxious to begin glazing.

Saturday night was, what is becoming, Em's annual Halloween Party. I dressed up as a scarecrow and Brian was a pirate. Jasmine was a Geisha Ninja if there is such a thing. Joy, John and Tobin (John's brother) are the only ones who didn't dress up. There was even a Tella Tubby there. We had lots of fun.

Our camera has been in the shop since the first of August so I'm including pictures of the July birthdays. Joy, Janelle and I celebrated our birthdays on my birthday because there seemed to be so little time for us to get together. I have spent most of the afternoon downloading and uploading pictures. Scroll down and Enjoy!

It's definitely fall!

2008-10-06T15:20:00.002-06:00

We are supposed to have our first freeze tonight. It has been such a beautiful fall. I guess all of my beautiful flowers will bite the dust. I've been decorating for fall today and cleaning. I'm trying to get things ready before I leave on my trip to Georgia this weekend. This is our girl's weekend and I'm so excited. We are staying at the same cabin that we stayed in last year. It was very nice. If you are interested in seeing it go to www.firstclasscabins.com and click on cabins to view it. It is called Panoramic Grace.

Two nice things about this year: 1) I don't plan on falling down the stairs and 2) I won't be returning to have surgery. Yeah!

I fly out of Denver in to Atlanta on Friday and then we will drive up to the cabin on Saturday. We'll stay at Glenda's son's apartment in Atlanta Friday night. I'll be back on Wednesday, the 15th. We've all been emailing what to bring, especially movies. I'm really looking forward to relaxing.

I love making pottery!

2008-10-04T15:02:00.002-06:00

This morning I went to an open pottery class where you get to sit for as long as you want and throw pots. It was so much fun and I learned a lot by practicing, practicing, practicing. I would really like to get my own wheel.

Jasmine and Brian went geocaching with Jasmine's Girl Scout troop and had fun hunting for treasure. You can go on-line and they tell you where these caches are. Then you use your GPS to find the treasure. What fun! This is a great family activity.

Moving right along

2008-10-01T15:22:00.003-06:00

Today I had my second pottery class. I am enjoying it so much. I made 5 pots but cut 3 into to study how I'm doing things. I learned a lot today. I will go on Saturday to an open class from 10 to 2 to work on what I've learned. This was much more fun than yesterday. I cleaned carpets. I still have two floors to go. Ugh!

Proverbs

2008-09-30T15:55:00.003-06:00

Our associate Pastor, who is teaching us about the Old Testament during Sunday School, encouraged us to read Proverbs. There are 31 chapters so you can easily finish it in a month. I've been reading one chapter each day and journaling about it. I'm enjoying all of the wisdom Solomon imparts. It definitely makes me think about how I'm living my life.