Christmas Life

What fun it is to enjoy the holiday season! I should say CHRIST-mas season. :)

I have been baking, gift wrapping, enjoying my family, enjoying Jamos' family, shopping, eating, eating, eating, got a massage and liked it so much I am ordering another one for Monday. I can do that right?
YES!

The one thing I wish- that I had a diet coke right now!

Tomorrow is CHRISTmas eve! Let us remember why we celebrate. A little babe, in a manger. ah. amazing.

Merry Christmas!

Whoa, time has flown and I have not posted! Jamos and I are in the midst of 2 grad classes at the same time, so all free time in the evenings is dedicated to our studies. Boo!!!

I am feeling SO much better. I can't believe I was SO sick for Thanksgiving. You don't realize how great healthy can feel until you have been NOT healthy for a while!

Work is good.

My dinner making skills are NOT so good.

And cookie baking....WHAT cookie baking?!

I hope this school is WORTH it. I am glad that my husband enjoys cereal at all times of day....


The house is decorated for Christmas....it is amazing all the boxes of decorations I have just for Christmas. I love sitting in the living room with the christmas tree on and the cozy feelings that come with it.

I have watched Elf, Christmas Vacation, While You Were Sleeping, Santa Baby 1 and 2, Its a Wonderful Life...all great "christmasy feeling" movies!!!

Our apartment cat, which we named BLACK BEAN, is doing really well. She loves coming into our house and relaxing (and eating!!) she doesn't stay too long before she wants to go outside...she is a good cat. I wish she was really mine! I would like to get her spayed....and declawed.

The Christmas season is always increasingly BUSY....I pray that we all have safe travels, health, wonderful time with family and friends.

Merry Christmas!!!!

Happy Thanksgiving!

I hope everyone had a lovely thanksgiving. Jamos and I headed to Florida to see my 88 year old granny, my 89 year old Aunt Margie, my mama and the rest of my family. We went last Saturday very early- to arrive in time for my cousins baby shower! She is due in January. Our flight was smooth (thank you for praying!) and we made it in time to pick up our rental car, stop at moms house, change and head to the shower. It was fun!
I will post pictures later.

Actually, we did a lot more, but on Tuesday night, I started getting sick and didn't feel well...Wednesday we had to go to sarasota for an appointment, didn't eat all day b/c I felt so sick. SOOO...then the intestinal issues started happening and today is now Saturday, and I haven't eaten more than chicken broth/jello since Tuesday night.

Can I tell you HOW SAD I am that I was sick for HALF of our FL vacation. I hardly ever get sick.

I hardly got to spend much time with my granny...I mean, I spent SOME time and saw her last night before we left. But, I didn't get to paint her finger nails....play Uno...nothing. STINKER.

And, on that note, i am tired and have no strength. So see ya.

I am sorry.

Sorry I have been SO bad at updating this blog. I know I likely had very few readers, and I probably lost those I had. Stick with me! I want to be a bettery blogger! I really do!

Let's see.

Life.

We have been enjoying our 2 weeks OFF from CLASS!!! :) We both passed the hardest grad class EVER- and both got A's. So, we are all smiles.

Until Monday- when our next class starts. During THANKSGIVING BREAK.

Boo.

I have been adopting this little black cat...jamos and I named her "BLACK BEAN" since she is black and I like black beans (and black jelly beans...). She is a good kitty and walks with you- just like a dog- when I walk around the apartment complex, she is right there beside me. I love it. :) She does have claws like daggers and doesn't really know that when she wants to play- those spears hurt. My hands have a few scratches for sure. I am trying to figure out how to feed her if we are to be gone for a few days. She comes to my porch at dusk. We play, she eats, we sometimes walk. It is fun. And, the closest I have come to having a cat in the past..oh, 10 years.

My thumb, which I ripped open a few weeks ago on a soup can is healing nicely. It still hurts if I bend ir really far, must just be tender.

If I could upload some video from the demo of the pilot show we are filming, I would, but I don't know how. :(

I finished another personalized name pillow. I will post pictures a little later at some point. It is good, but I wish I was better at sewing, but I am not. I don't measure things. I just cut... or, sew...or whatever. Which is never good, but I don't have it in my personality to be perfect in those areas. Well..

I guess in ANY areas!

Last week I went to a Women's Night of Praise at my church. It was great! I was bummed I didn't win door prizes, BUT, it was a great time of worship. There is something about being with women. We are really ALL in the same boat in this life. Whether you are married, single, children, no children, etc., we are all women with similar emotions and feelings. I am a firm believer in being honest with eachother about our struggles. Numerous occassions I have felt MUCH better by sharing an issue I am struggling with- with a friend- and just to know that they share that struggle too- makes a world of difference. It makes me think- if only MEN would do that instead of keeping everything to themselves....ah..

Last weekend Jamos and I went to Galveston. It was fun. He had to work, so I ventured out to take photos along the seawall and wouldn't you know it- I was at a stop light- and a huge line of cops and sirens came thru the light- so as I was trying to get out of their way, I took the corner too tight- and apparently in Galveston, they have HIGH gutter type things- and I like, bottomed out the car. It was AWFUL. I pulled over- checked things - all looked okay, but you know me- I FREAK OUT!
So, I pulled over, talked to my mom, looked under the car to check for leaks (time #3) and thought OH NO! Maybe there is a puddle of water under the car...so, I took it to the only car place I could find- so they could hoist it up and look under the car to check for leaks. Nothing. But, they DID try to charge me $35 for a basic oil change. I was like NO WAY. I can take it to the dealership and get it (with a coupon) for $25. So, he gave it to me for $19.99. Jerks.
Don't. Try. To. Take. Me.

Anyways, after that, we went to Moody Gardens (www.moodygardens.com) for their Festival of Lights. I had a coupon- you purchase a festival of lights ticket for 5.50- you get a FREE ticket to the aquarium (normally $15) so we used that and boy, was I glad! It was a pretty weak aquarium. But, overall it was fun. We had a good time in Galveston, eating at a great organic place which was SO good. And then, stopping at wendys during the ride home for a frosty- which we haven't had in like AGES- and THEN, we went thru the drive thru at Mcdonalds for FRIES!!! That was a treat since we never eat fast food. ick. but, fun.

Enjoy your Thanksgiving!

Everlasting God

Lately, I have been doubting a lot of things in my life- such as, what is the point of life, what should I be doing with my life, what should Jamos and I be doing together to make a difference in the world, what is the meaning of STUFF. Sometimes we both feel that in America you work so hard to make money to buy THINGS, but we lack the most important "things" which is relationships and a life well lived. How do we get to a point in life where we are satisfied with minimal "stuff"?
We are searching our own hearts, praying together and seeking your prayers as we look to what our future holds, while we are young, while we have the ability to make a difference in this world. Will you pray with us?

That is what is weighing heavily on us currently, but, in spite of that, I can tell you we are in the LAST WEEK of our hardest (according to others) masters class we will have in this program. Can I get a witness?! :) I am SO glad to be done and move along to something a little more FOCUSED- such as "business communication" :) ha ha ha. I have to admit, I was SCARED out my mind when we started this class, but, as it turns out, I CAN work on my Masters and so far, do well in the midst of it. I praise God for the experience and for the ability to do such a thing in our lives! Jamos is doing REALLY well (he is beating me with his score- points wise) and I think this will open future doors. Always thinking in the terms of "FUTURE" but trying to live in the present. Ah, such confusion!

I am REALLY looking foward to next week- b/c our next class will not have started yet- so we will actually have free NIGHTS and weekends to enjoy life. We will be doing some fun things I am SURE!

Filming for the pilot show is complete! We have 2 shows finished. I have only seen the demo for the 1st shoot- which was the chocolate bar- (dessert- not beer) and it is SO amazing! I am really impressed with how well they put this together. I can see it on TV!! Last weekend we had 2 really awesome shoots full of AMAZING food. I couldn't believe it. We must have eatten over $200 worth of food. LOVED IT! For the first time, EVER, I felt semi famous- especially getting attacked in the parking lot by a "fan" who wanted to know what we were filming. ha ha. I can't remember if I blogged about that or not, I doubt it.

I have a little kitty friend who I have been feeding. This kitty lives at our complex and has for quite some time. It is a good kitty with very SHARP claws- it likes to "play" but, ends up scratching. So far, I have NOT gotten cat scratch fever- which is always a perk. The fun part of this cat, it likes to walk with you when you walk around the complex! I think it walks with all kinds of people- all around. So funny.

My thumb is healing nicely. I asked our retired vet. guy to take out my stitches. He lives next door- so I saw him and amazingly, he took them out easily. He said that most of his patients would be licking his face... I was like...uh...not gonna lick your face Dr.! :) ha ha.

It does amaze me at how our bodies do HEAL. I can fully bend my thumb and the skin is back together...awesome if you ask me.

what a month

I can't believe how busy/ ridiculous life has been lately. I know I have MUCH to be thankful for in all that has been going on- but, sometimes I just wish for an easy day. But after I wish for an easy day- I feel bad b/c really even on the hardest of days, compaired to some people, I DO have an easy day.

Anyways, besides being in our 9th week of grad school (it is a 10 week class) we have been busting out papers like no one's business....

Last week, I checked our bank account and realized that someone was withdrawling money from our account. Long story short- that was REALLY SCARY for me. If you need new tips on fraud prevention- just ask. I learned a lot.

I had MarriagePrep all weekend- which worked out and I am sure that God worked in some people's lives.

My work computer was having MAJOR issues- with the fan.... and would randomly shut down- so I had to save all files to an external hard drive- get a loaner computer from SAU and then ship my computer off to be fixed.... THAT is hard when you are doing papers for a masters class and registering and handling church stuff before a big event!

Last night, I went to Yoga with the intentions of having a relaxing evening. Monday is the only day of the week we don't really have homework- since it is all due on Sunday night- so Monday is our REST day. Well, off to yoga... came home- started on dinner- I made one of those STEAM FRESH dinners- with chicken and veggies- whatever. It was EASY- so I tried that. But, I took it out of the bag and it smelled funky. So...I cooked it more- then, I tasted it and it was DISCUSTING and unedible. Something just was not right. SO...I was like- well, I guess we shall eat SOUP. So, I crank out the can opener....undo the lid....leave the lid still attached- and am shaking the contents of the can into a bowl.... when....it....happened.
Somehow- I smashed the razor sharp edge of the can onto the knuckle part of my thumb on the left hand- and began bleeding. Squirty. Bleeding. Dripping all over the floor in large drops. I said, "OH NO" and looked at Jamos who quite often hears me say that when I cut myself in the kitchen- I said "this one is bad" and he ran to the bathroom to get the first aid stuff- I ran in there with a paper towel wrapped around my finger- and, we both nearly fainted when we saw the white bone showing thru the quite deep wound on my finger. I just KNEW I needed stitches. I had not seen a cut like THAT in a LONG time- possibly since I slit my leg open on the car door during my 13th birthday.... but even then, I didn't actually SEE it.

Needless to say- off to the ER we went. There is a new ER that has a tri-oge (no idea how to say that) down the street- it isnt like a medical care clinic- it is bigger than that- with private rooms and a full staff of people. Lucky for me- it was all in-network for my insurance. Anyways, it took about 4 minutes for us from the time I cut myself to the point of driving down the street....we checked in- I was SO SCARED that someone would be there- throwing up or something- but it was "SAFE" and no one was bloody or anything strange. There was a guy there who broke his foot...or something- a girl with a broken finger...and some other person who I think was there to drink the free coffee they had- since she walked in and went straight for the room with the coffee in it. ODD.

Everyone was very nice- my dr's name was Dr. Beer. ha aha. The nurse came in and cleaned it out- that hurt REALLY bad. UGH. At first people were like,"oh that isnt bad" and then , I would bend my finger and they would go " OH I see why u are here" caues it is on the knuckle part of my thumb, so where the wrinkles are- and really if my finger is straight you can't see anything, but when ibend it- the gap opens up...wide....with white bone showing. Anyways.....
then, I got stitches with Dr. Beer. Jamos WATCHED THE WHOLE THING!!!! I was ready to faint when we took the paper towel off of it. I had to get a tetnis shot....that hurt bad too!!!!!

Anyways, so much for a night of "relaxation" for us. But, through all that- I am still thankful. :) Jamos was a great husband - stayed calm and was very good about the whole thing!!!!! He even read me a bed time story when I went to sleep! :) I love kids books.

Swine Flu Prevention.

I got this email about Swine Flu prevention. I have a neti pot, so I have started using it at night...

With H1N1 and flu cases on the increase throughout our area, I found the article below very interesting. If we all take the precautions and share this article with everyone....maybe it won't be as awful as predicted! With the constant fear of H1N1 symptoms, the following measures can be practised by one and all.

This is an information which just received from a friend whose father is a Consultant General Surgeon & Gastroenterologist, and I do hope it could be beneficail to the students and their families alike. Tami flu does not kill the virus, but prevents H1N1 from further proliferation till the virus limits itself in about 1 - 2 weeks (its natural cycle). H1N1, like other Influenza A viruses, only infects the upper respiratory tract and proliferates (only) there.

The only portals of entry are the nostrils and mouth/throat. In a global epidemic of this nature, its almost impossible not coming into contact with H1N1. Contact with H1N1 is not so much of a problem as proliferation is.

While you are still healthy and not showing any symptoms of H1N1 infection, in order to prevent proliferation (growth & spread of the virus), aggravation of symptoms and development of secondary infections, some very simple steps - not fully highlighted in most official communications can be practiced (instead of focusing on how to stock N95 or Tami Flu)

1. Frequent hand washing (well highlighted in all official communications).

2. "Hands off the face" approach, Resist all temptations to touch any part of face (unless you want to eat, bathe or slap!!!!)

3. Gargle twice a day with warm salt water (use Listerine if you don't trust salt. H1N1 takes 2 - 3 days after initial infection in the throat/nasal cavity to proliferate and show characteristic symptoms. Simple gargling prevents proliferation. In a way, gargling with salt water has the same effect on healthy individual that Tami flu has on a infected one. Don't underestimate this simple, inexpensive and powerful preventative method.

4. Similiar to 3 above, clean your nostrils at least once every day with warm salt water. Not everybody may be good at Jala Neti or Sutra Neti (very good Yoga asanas to clean nasal cavities), but blowing the nose hard once a day and swabbing both nostrils with cotton buds dipped in warm salt water is very effective in bringing down viral population.

5. Boost your natural immunity with foods that are rich in vitamin C (Citrus fruits). If you have to supplement with Vitamin C tablets make sure that it also has Zinc/bioflavonoids to boost absorption.

6. Drink as much of warm liquids as you can. Drinking warm liquids has the same effect as gargling, but in the reverse direction. They wash off proliferating viruses from the throat into the stomach where they cannot survive, proliferate or do any harm. All these are simple ways to prevent, within means of most households and certainly much less painful than to wait in long queues outside public hospitals.

Post from 2005.

It is always fun to look back on the years thru the blog- and since I have had NO time to update with my current life, I thought I would give you seomthing from October 21, 2005. Apprently, I was stressed! :)


OCTOBER 21, 2005
strange
so, I did 2 presentations to high school students today about preparing for college. The 1st one went great- that was when everything was working....THEN I encountered trouble with the VCR and DVD player- and so it went down hill from there during the 2nd one. I had a good time with the students, they asked a lot of questions, but still. I just hope they learned something! :) Or at least listened!!!STRESS!!!!

Apparently when one is busy, you forget to blog...or...feel that nothing is worth of being blogged about...either way. Sorry. Haven't been good at this since my nights are filled with homework and my days are filled with work.

The weather is supposed to cool off tonight- being in the 60's tommorow and I am pretty excited to shut off the air for a bit...it has been running since FEBRUARY!!!

Last weekend we filmed again- it was good. I even felt famous when a large table of people wanted to know who I was, what I was doing there, and wanted to be on film with me! So, we did an interview type deal. It was cool UNTIL they left around the same time as Jamos and I- and as we were waiting for the valet to get our car....they were like standing there waiting to see what kinda car I drove (since I am famous- you know! HA.) and, when our 1999 accord pulled up, I got in and I waived and smiled...

Well, I am struggling with an update. Sorry. If you want to come cook, clean and do my homework, I might be inspired to write more!

TGIF

This week has been quite crazy. I am trying to remain calm, but there are times, like last night, where I feel like I am in 7th grade again have a tantrum about doing my homework.

This week we encountered:

• a rock to the windshield of Jamos' car
• a flat tire in Jamos' car (actually it was a HOLE IN THE SIDEWALL of the tire- which is dangerous and not fixable).

If you remember- I DISLIKE CAR ISSUES VERY MUCH! But, usually become so obsessed with fixing the issue, that I handle the car issues ASAP. We have since gotten the windshield fixed and, a new tire was purchased for our vehicle. And, after getting 1 tire replaced, I think we decided we should get the other 3 replaced- I just have to find time to go and do that... BUT jamos drives EVERY day and I really feel that safety is SO important while he is out on the roads- so, it is NOT a problem to get him going.

Anyways, I think a cold front is moving in AS WE SPEAK- which I am excited about - except for the fact it is pouring. But, that is WORTH IT!

This weekend we are filming for the food show.... I will let you know how that goes. And, pray we do a great job so I can still have time for the many items of homework I have to complete in a timely fashion!

grad school..

What was I thinking when I said YES to grad school? For some reason, this week which was supposed to be EASY- turned out to make me feel quite stupid. We had a mid-term and a paper due- all of which I didn't do the BEST- which makes me flash back to like....9th grade pre-aleg. which I had to take like 3 times..... so, in other words- LOOSER-ISH.

UHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGG.

I have to get those thoughts out of my head. I have to use my time wisely. I have to read lots of stuff, write lots of stuff...learn lots of stuff. UGH. Not having a good attitude about it at ALL. HELP!

Happy Fall Ya'll

I cannot believe it is already OCTOBER! Where has this summer gone? Apparently, it has flown by and I really need to get started scrapbooking! A lot of travel was involved from May-September! Michigan a few times, Germany...ahhh. Germany. A lovely place! :)

Jamos and I have been VERY low key lately. Work. Eat. Homework. Sleep. Repeat. Not very much fun, but it is the phase of life we are in. School is good - but does eat up all your time when you are working full time. Bummer. We had a mid-term exam today....I didn't do very good. I HATE tests! Jamos did better than me...smart boy. We woke up late...spent 4 hours on homework (taking our exams) and then, time for dinner...never left the house except to get the mail today. BORING! Now I am letting some creative juices flow making some onesies with applique for my cousin who is due in January. :) So far so good...
Football has also consumed us today in the midst of doing homework. U of M - which lost to MSU- and then the ND game. At least ND pulled out! Now we are watching Miami. I didn't know we were Miami fans....

Well, may peace go with you! :) OH- you may have wondered what that Ugg thing was on the side of the post- I am trying to win Ugg boots. not sure if it is FOR REAL- but I sure hope I win something! :)

Happy Birthday Mom!

Today is my lovely mothers birthday. She really is an amazing woman in my life. I am so thankful to have learned from her, to have grown up with her and to continue our friendship as the years go by!
My mom deserves good things and that is my wish for her this year.
Happy Birthday Mom! I love you!!!

Saturday

Happy Saturday. Currently, I am procrastinating on my case study homework for my grad class.
Jamos is home! He has a sore throat- not sure what this means, but, I am hoping the juice plus prevents the sore throat from being anything more than just a little irritation...I think he will kick it.

We are watching football- U of M vs. Indiana- they are playing in Ann Arbor. Makes me feel like I am in Michigan- watching michigan people!

MarriagePrep is happening soon- in like 3 weeks! I can't believe it is BACK already. We just had one in August and now again in October. It seems like that is QUICK. Hope all goes well and we get more participation- I think I have 50 people registered now- we like to have 160-190.

I had a dream last night that I was in a plane crash. I didn't die- the plane just fell out of the sky. UGH!

Well, better start reading the case study... so we can semi-enjoy our weekend!

fall is in the air!

Yesterday was a very cool 72 degrees! I have been wanting to decorate for fall, but had 2 issues- 1st, motivation 2nd- you have to CLEAN before you can put out decorations- and the living space needed to be picked up a bit. BUT, somehow....I randomly started to pick up and before I knew it- I was sweating from working so HARD! Anyways, things are looking fun and fall- like around here! I even had the windows OPEN! I haven't done that since February!

Work is good.

Got new coffee- decided to get starbucks beans to grind each morning. So far, so good- though, I do feel grumpy. GRUMPY.

I am wanting to plan a christmas VACATION- to someplace exotic for our Christmas break...I have a feeling our family may not like this idea, but, I may start to do some research. We need it for ourselves. Trust me. We do. And sometimes, I feel like if you are going to pay for airfare you may as well GO SOMEPLACE! :) That is my wish, but I am not sure it is anything more than that.

Lately, I have been SCARED of roaches. The whole roach thing at church on Sunday has freaked me out- to roaches in general. The other night- Jamos was gone and I baracaded myself in the bed with pillows all around- and slept with the LIGHT ON- cause I was afraid that a roach was going to get me. CRAZY I know. I am a nerd. It isn't like we have roaches crawling all over our home- - but, I just freak myself out. I need to say "STOP" :)

reflections of the day

It has rained all day today- from pouring to sprinkles, but rain none-the-less. It has not helped my motivation to work out, to WORK in general or to get my homework done. At least as the day comes to a close, I can say that I did in fact work- and I did work out- and the homework is coming along- slowly but surely. Not sure how to inspire my knowledge.

I went to the mall today, I had some "free" coupons at VS and then, to Aveda. I love that. But, I also realized that 1 year and 10 months ago, we thought that mall was the BEST thing EVER and we were so excited to live SO close to the biggest mall we had ever seen. Ah, the shopping. But, lately, I don't want to buy new clothes, or shoes, or whatever. I just don't. It isn't something we NEED. It isn't really even fun. I have big feet and am tall, so nothing fits "easy" anymore. I did try on some cute things at Ann Taylor Loft- all of this to say- I really REALLY need to keep working out! It is interesting to see all the people coming and going, making big purchases getting excited about STUFF. But, really, that is how I see it. I do have this obsessive personality- so I have bought quite a bit of tooth paste, advil, stuff like that when it is on sale, but the clothes and stuff- shoot. I usually wear the SAME thing over and over and over. And, then, I go back to the fact that I have to do homework- so i think that sucks some joy out of the shopping experience for ME!

I wish I could have a garage sale. How do you do that if you live at an apartment? I need to pack up stuff and go to my friends neighborhood- that would likely work. But, requires free weekends and planning. I am tired of stuff. Let's free ourselves from the clearance rack...to clear the clutter and our minds. There is nothing I need. Nothing. I was thinking for Chrstmas, to say, "donate money to this organization" or, put $10 towards Jamos' school loans. Those are the things that I REALLY want taken care of. Now that Jamos and I are both in grad school- Jamos gets a discount- but it is still expensive. Long story short- we are doing what we need to do right now- we have all that we need to have. Of course, a new Lori C. Mitchell La De Dah, would be okay with me...but that is for the future because I think they would look SUPER cute in a little kids room. So- THERE!

The other thing I notice lately is people are pregnant. Right now...my cousin is having a baby in January, my friends Amy and Angela from church are both having kids in december and january...I have one friend who is trying to have a baby...it is like the second round of baby BOOM. The first round happened right after college...so, those friends have already completed baby #2.....
And, yet, as much as sure, I could jump on the baby wagon, I know in my heart I am NOT ready for a baby. Well, I think. People say, "oh, treasure the times with your spouse" and "travel!" and "blah blah blah" well, they are right. Jamos and I are doing what we need to do NOW to ensure our future is bright- that we are financially ready, that our careers are on the right track, that our schooling is done/in process, that our marriage is strong(this is like the most important!)...who knows. I just know that if anyone asks me if I am having a baby soon- the answer is NO. Though, is it strange that sometimes I want someone to leave a baby at my doorstep...so, that I can take care of it? WEIRD I know. I also want to find a kitten somewhere that is so cute that when Jamos see's it he says we HAVE to have it! :) (he hates cats- and I love them).
So, maybe deep inside I have that mother instinct. My mom was 32 when she had me...so, I have time! I am not 30 yet- so there is NO RUSH people. OK- sorry.

The other thing that is on my brain- is Jon and Kate. Yes, I know, get over it. But, for some reason I am STUCK on it. I think about it. It hurts me. I really did look to them on their show to see how a marriage works- I was feeling good- and then, BAM. They get divorced. God does tell us to look to him- not others- which I should know by now. But, I did look at them- the way they interacted, etc.,
Divorce just scares me- simple as that and complicated as that.

Well, I need to start on this weeks homework- reading FOUR chapters in my huge text book. Ah, the joys of graduate school. I hope this pays off someday.

Not sure

I don't have anything exciting to talk about. Really. I read some people's blogs and they are written so nicely and include really exciting stories...Apparently I don't have that capability. I talk about my weekend which normally includes nothing exciting. Ever. ugh. I miss Michigan. I miss friends. I miss a career where I actually GO to work. Not that I in ANY way shape or form am dissing working from home. I know when I worked in an office I likely wished to work from home. So, I get the whole "the grass is greener" thing. But, seriously. I used to laugh like ALL DAY! Of course, there were bad days too- but, they were much more social and full of excitment. Let's see.. memories from the office. I remember one day I came to work bright and early...and someone's horses got out- and were running down M-60. I also remember going to work one day and meeting my HUSBAND while he was an intern. I had the best office....with a window and the nice wooden furniture. Ah. I used to run around everywhere I went. No wonder I was thin! Working from home- there is no one to run to...

Anyways. I miss it. It is affecting my heart/spirit/mood. I am a bit grumpy lately. Life just is confusing at times...I wish I could look into the future to at least see what was coming down the line. Of course, I likely don't REALLY want to know. Since I am sure there are trials along with the good times. Maybe that is why God doesn't tell us our future. We wouldn't live for today. Hmm.

I made my stinky soup- it is actually a weight watchers soup that I used to eat for lunch like EVERY day in michigan and everyone in the office would be like "EMILY!!!" cause it smelled bad and they called it "stinky" I made it this weekend and there is just something about this soup that is SO GOOD! I could eat it ALL. So, I had it for dinner last night and lunch today. Basically, you take any veggie you have- cut it up- throw it in a pot with some ground turkey and walah! This time I put: Carrots, celery, corn, yellow squash, onion, garlic, hatch peppers (I bought fun mini-yellow, red and orange peppers to put in but forgot!) then, I add black beans and chic peas (normally, 2 cans of black beans- but I only had 1) and then, I use salsa and lots of it for spicey and for the tomato factor. It is yummy! So, I did that yesterday....along with some homework....some TARGET! (my favorite time of the week) and then, some just chill time. I didn't really do much else. Sad. Oh, I did the annoying things like, dry cleaners, car wash, etc., but, nothing FUN.

Today at church was good. I love being in the sanctuary. It is fabulous. With all the construction we have had in there...there is bound to be BUGS. Well, I grew up in FL with roaches...and now that we have moved to the south again, sometimes I encounter a roach. Well, normally, I cry and freak out- I am just THAT scared of those creepy things. Anyways, there was a ROACH crawling up the aisle...and, then, apparently during the song, it was on this guys SHOULDER! He was sitting like 3 people away from me...in front of me. So, the person behind him like, brushed it off- and no one said anything- well, the REST of the service, there I am - freaking out that this roach is going to crawl up my leg and get on MY shoulder. No way jose. So, I am finally getting into the service and feel something on my FOOT. I leap about 3 feet in the air....and, it was JAMOS' PANT LEG. I was so scared by it that I did shed a tear. Ugh. I hate it. And, he has been making fun of me since this morning- about how "high" I jumped. Not funny.

Side note: Have you ever used a tongue scraper? I hadn't but had been feeling like I needed some fresher breath...and, so, while I was shopping at Target yesterday, I picked up a pack- and really like it! I do feel like my breath is fresher. Now, if Jamos gags himself on this tongue scraper I may regret my decision...but, so far so good. Try it. I give it my EBSM stamp of approval.

We are now in week FOUR of our Master's class. I wish it was totally done after week 10- but apparently we will still need 32 credits to be done with the program. UGH!!!! Can you believe it?! I can't. It takes a lot of disipline each week.

Umm...well, I have nothing else to say really....so, hope you are having a good day!

Michindoh

Me and Jenny

I think Michigan sunsets are much prettier than Houston sunsets.

Some of the girls.

cheese!

Dinner

The reason we were there: Training w/ the consultant

Painless

Travel today from Michigan to Houston was painless. Let me remember this each time I have to fly! The flight was great, not crowded at all. My time in Michigan was awesome. I got there on Monday- and the admissions group was already in "training" with a consultant who specializes in admissions and higher education. I stayed with my friend Rachel- and was VERY tired because my flight left at 7am- and my shuttle to the airport picked up at 4am. So, Rachel and I ate a nice dinner, had some fun times and went to bed fairly early! The next morning we were up early to campus to join my admissions peeps, so that we could go to camp Michindoh. This is a camp we recently recieved as a gift- and it is AWESOME! We spent all day in training, but were able to have some great bonding moments. We have quite a few new reps, so this was an awesome chance to get to know each other better! We hiked around the lake, watched the sunset, had a campfire, and what I miss most- GIRL TALK!

It is nice to be home- but- sad to be back to my solitary "office". I miss those people. And I appreciate each of them for who they are. I will post pictures soon.

At the Gone with the Wind Museum in Jefferson, TX

Our AWESOME B&B

Out of order- but this is my mom, amah and jamos and I when we were in michigan

Nikol and I at the B&B drinking our morning coffee before filming.

Justyc and I in Sagatuck.

A beautiful day on Silver Beach in St. Joe.

Mr. Boots.

no time

I have NO time to blog anymore. Sorry. I think about it often- but have had no time. Jamos and I were in michigan- that was crazy- then, our grad class has taken up much of our time and we have just been going going going....Today was the grand opening of the SBC worship center! 1 year ago it was destroyed by hurricane ike...and, today we were finally back together in the sanctuary. It was beautiful. So many people...we sang the song, Holy Ground.

When I walked through the doors I sensed his presence

And I knew this was a place where love abounds

For this is a temple the God we love abides here

And we are standing in his presence On holy ground

We are standing on holy ground

And I know there are angels all around

Let us praise, praise God now, praise him anyhow

For we are standing in his sweet presence

On holy ground In his presence I know there is joy beyond all measure

And at his feet sweet peace of mind can still be found

For when we have a need he is still the answer

Reach out and claim it for we are standing

On holy ground We are standing on holy ground

And I know there are angels all around

Let us praise, praise God now, praise him anyhow

For we are standing in his sweet presence On holy ground

As we sang, I was brought to tears. It really felt like we were all standing on holy ground!

Anyways, today, was homework and I was getting ready for MY trip to Michigan tomorrow. It will be a VERY early morning for SURE! I am taking the shuttle...pray for me! Anyways, this weekend we also were in Jefferson Texas at the Gone with the Wind museum and bed and breakfast. Quick trip- but, fun.

so busy

Life has surely picked up speed as we have now officially started our masters classes. No more lazy evenings! Our nights are filled with homework! It is fun, to learn something new. So far so good! Not to say I am not overwhelmed at times. But, it is good! :) Jamos likes it too!

gust but mi lupe

I just bit my lip! I was eating a skinny cow ice cream sandwich and BAM. My upper lip and my lower set of teeth met. OUCH! I thought, well, maybe it isn't so bad...so, I put my hand to my lip- and there was of course- blood. Shoot. So, now my lip is swollen. Right at the tip of my upper lip.

Besides that our day has been pretty good...work...homework....chat on the phone with mom..

Picture Pages

The lovely, delicious blueberry pie!

The corner of this way and that way. Jamos doesn't know which way to go!
The random huge statue off the side of the highway. This is Stephen Austin- the father of texas.

I made us compete in the HATCH PEPPER contest- where we got to make these awesome hats and get a $50 gift card. :) Poor Jamo!

At Sea Center Texas...

I love flowers. I can't help it.

Fish.

poor hubs

Last night, my sweet husband was up most of the night in AWFUL pain. He has had a pain in his back- you know, when you sleep wrong or something, but, this turned EXTREME! It was the worst pain I have ever seen him in- long story (and long night) short, I called at 5am to the doctors office and made an appointment, hoping that 1) we would make it til 10am when the appointment at our clinic was- or, 2) I needed to figure out which ER I was going to take him to- I had NO idea what was happening to him!!

He made it thru the morning and we made it to the clinic, good news, it isnt a pinched nerve, but he did have some swelling, and so she gave him some muscle relaxors and some pretty intense pain reliever. Poor kid. I am glad he is on the up swing!! :)

You know how I hate throw up? Well, we were leaving the clinic and this kid was throwing up right at the entry way...COME ON! I had to turn around - plug my ears and walk to the other entrance. GROSS. Why!?

So, we are taking it easy, working on our masters class, and letting him rest!

good news

Just met one of the 3 guys who have been upstairs in the corporate apartment- AND...they leave tomorrow! So, this was a quick quick trip!

random points

• Our 1st masters class starts on MONDAY. I am SCARED. I have talked to the prof. but am still scared in my head!!! I just hope I am good at reading...writing and learning again!
• The new guy upstairs walks REALLY loud and makes the floor creak. it bothers me.
• I really want some new bold writing pens.
• I am proud of my husband for WHO he is.
• My cousin Sara is having a baby BOY! she just found out it was a boy this morning- so I better start getting my "crafty" on this weekend before our class starts up!
• I want to rearrange the living room...
• Cookies are waiting to be baked again for Jamos to take to his stores....
• We are still in LOVE with the blueberry pie...though, it is almost gone!
• You can get 500 tables of vitamin D @ SAM's club, for the same price you get only 180 at Target.
• I am still annoyed by the footsteps upstairs. It is a corporate apartment for Shell Oil- so we have people in and out all the time. I just hope these heavy steppers aren't here for 2 months like the last husband/wife duo with a new baby. I never heard the baby, but, I did hear footsteps.
• Jamos and I started a new bible study class at church last night- and we found it slightly..well...it was good.
• No idea what to make for dinner. I need a personal chef. Or a built in mom. :)

Blueberry Pie

I am in love with the blueberry pie I made...it is so good! I wish I could share it with all of you-at least a taste so you could enjoy it too!

Not sure what to write about...life is back in full swing...our class starts on Monday...We are also doing a class at our church on Wednesday nights- which should be fun... we shall see! :)

Umm... that is all!

Interesting read.

Today I flipped open my trusty, "HIS PRINCESS- Love letters from your king" book. It was interesting what I found...

MY PRINCESS- LEAD THE LOST.

I am dwelling in you and with you. Because my power is in your life, you have the ability to show the way to all who need to find me. But you won't discover My power or complete your calling if you try and build your life on your own accomplishments. You have been handpicked by ME to refresh a world that is wandering around in a dry and thirsty land. There are many who are lost and feel very alone. Their cups are empty and so are their souls. So let me fill you with my spirit, my appointed one, I will show you how to bring them living water and lead them to the true love they long for. I will make a way for you to lead them to me. And because you loved and followed me, you will be the one they'll thank on the other side of eternity for showing them the way to heaven. Love, Your King who refreshes and leads.

remember the old days?

Jamos and I have been doing quite a bit of soul searching lately. For meaning and purpose in our world/lives. We want to make a real difference. But where? Doing what? We are in the right place, where the Lord has called us, but, is he going to call us elsewhere at somepoint?

Both Jamos and I grew up madly in love with missions work. In high school, I worked in our missions office at my church, knew every missionaries name that our church supported, cried during missions week because I knew that I was going to be a missionary. Well, I went off to college, majored in communications, got a job at SAU, and have been there ever since. Where did that passion go? Was it supposed to go away? I went to Russia and Chicago, all on a mission to serve those around me. Building relationships, playing with kids, worshiping our God....it was the height of my relationship with the Lord and of when I truly felt alive.

Jamos has always loved missions as well, serving in Haiti and Mexico as well as NYC. He wanted to be a missionary dentist- helping people. When we met, we were like, missions, yea! But, then, what happens? Life takes us on a different course- not that it is a bad course, but, it does make you wonder if this was the course we were supposed to take together.

This weekend for me has been emotional as those feelings are remembered, those times in my life, when I was 17 years old and a much different person than I am now.

So, of course, our lives will tick on as usual, move in day for SAU is just around the corner, MarriagePrep work never stops and of course our Masters Classes start next MONDAY- so let the books crack open and our lives be educated in organizational management also known as OM. (I started to read a little early...). Jamos will be hard at work doing Sears trainings all week. But what is on our minds is worlds away, across oceans perhaps. We want to serve. We want to trust, we want to be stripped down to the basics of life- living as the Lord tells us, not as society says. It is a leap of faith for SURE. This is not something I was planning even 2 weeks ago- but, we will pray, and seek wisdom- to see what our future holds.
I have also been angry. It is quite disappointing to feel like my "peak" of life was when I was in high school- serving in other countries. How was I so wise beyond my time to be THAT involved already? And, what happened AFTER graduation that changed me. It is quite aggrevating to me.

Keep us in your prayers, for our marriage, for our future- for us to be content and fully knowing we are in the exact place we are supposed to be right now. We of course, eaglerly anticipate doors opening, and of course, will be looking for "signs" (if that is even a true thing to say-I have no idea) and who is to say WHEN this will happen. We may be 80 years old, finally having the doors open for us- you just don't know. Also pray for my anxiety! This surely brings it on in myself.

I am sharing my heart in this blog, please, be kind. We don't really know anything else, we are just sharing our hearts from this weekend's emotional realization. As Jamos tells me, these are all just thoughts, hopes, dreams- nothing is actually HAPPENING, which calms me down a little, since change is VERY hard for me!


OKAY- enough HEAVY stuff- let me tell you about our weekend. Friday night was PIZZA NIGHT! We watched a movie, "Phoebe in wonderland" which was quite an interesting movie. We did some reading, made homemade pizza (I even make my own crust now!) and went to bed early, because the next day, Jamos was scheduled to do an event at a Home Depot in Lake Jackson. Well, I have never been to Lake Jackson, TX, so I wanted to tag along....we got up early, drove an hour away and ended in Lake Jackson. I helped Jamos for a bit, and then, took a lunch break and drove without gettings lost and NO directions to the Sea Center Texas- which looked a LOT cooler on the website than actually being there. I signed in- saw some stuffed fish on the wall- all native to the gulf coast region (I was told by the 90 year old man at the welcome booth) he told me that they had a "touch tank" which was open to kids of ALL ages! I was super excited to touch my hands to some pretty fish!! Well....scratch that- as I made my way around the corner, there was the touch tank....about the size of a bathtub, with some sand, and empty shells and some minnows, which looked like they came from Lime Lake. It was sad. After about 5 minutes of looking at the large tanks of fish, with examples of the gulf coast, such as a marsh area, a sea wall, and a pond, I was done! Talk about a bummer! I did take a nice stroll along the boardwalk- to see the birds....sea gulls....and some sand pipers... plus it was like 383 degrees out there.

After the event, we stopped at Sonic, and then, got in the car for the drive home but not before stopping on the corner of THIS WAY and THAT WAY. Seriously. NOT JOKING. Pictures are coming soon. We found it...and if you go this way and than that way- you will get there.......

We did not want to miss out on a stop to see the HUGE statue of "THE FATHER OF TEXAS" Quiz: Who is the father of texas?

Answer: STEPHEN AUSTIN.

And for your viewing pleasure, there is a HUGE statue of him off the highway. We stopped, took pictures and I got some bit by a fire ant. Jerk.

Once home, we made our way to the mall. Unfortunely, it is TAX FREE WEEKEND in texas- and that brings people out in HOARDS. WORSE THAN CHRISTMAS. Our TEA POT, which I blogged about a while back, that was an issue to begin with...has been an issue for the entire month we owned it. It was expensive, but thinking it was quality and hand made, we kept it. Until the paint started chipping on the inner lid....
Try talking to some japanese lady at the mall store....I have called corporate customer service 2 times about it- and the store, more than I can count. This tea pot was apparently the LAST one in the WORLD. No more replacement pot for us. Well, that was the ONE that we liked the best, fit into our budget (cast iron tea pots can be rather $$$$) so, we finally decided to part ways with the stupid thing. So, we got our money back and now I don't have to worry about THAT anymore. Whew.

As I was driving from the mall, I see a group of people, outside neiman marcus, looking in the opposite direction (towards where I was driving) then, I see a police officer start to run...and then I see 3 men RACE across the street on foot- as I am driving towards them, not knowing what the heck is going on....then, GUNS PULLED...I realize those are 2 undercover cops, chasing down a "bad" guy. They got him- he must have fallen, or they stun gunned him or something- cause he was laying on the side walk while the other cop got him in handcuffs. It was pretty awesome to witness that. Glad they caught him! I love it when Good prevails evil.

Jamos and I are also not watching much (or any) tv (and who really needs to living in h-town apparently, we have "COPS" right outside our doors.
This is also a new change of events in the Mitchell home. I am totally fine with this idea, since I do believe we had too many FAVORITE tv shows. Jamos was listening to a book on tape and the book put it quite well. He kept saying Over and over and over to stop watching tv he asked, "what good is this doing for you?" "what are you actually getting from tv?" things like that to spark up good convo basically- but we realized it is TRUE. What do we get from knowing who won the biggest looser or top chef? Does it really make a difference in our lives? NO! And, we just wasted the ENTIRE night- sitting on the couch staring at the TV. B O R I N G. Talk about not LIVING. It is SO stinking true. And, I have gotten MUCH DONE with out watching the "boob toob" I actually got around to organizing my jewelry- since it usually gets totally tangled and I can't find any earrings that match- I have actually PUT AWAY the clothes, etc., We have spent more time reading and talking- and apparently have divine revelations about our future (not so sure about this one!) We DO still watch movies. So, that is like, 1.5 hours- but we used to do BOTH, movies and TV. ridiculous.

If we can keep this up, we will cancel our cable- which will save us a nice chunk of cash.

:)

Hatch Peppers on Thursday night.

Have you ever heard of Hatch Peppers? Me neither...until our weekly trip to the library and then, central market...as we walked in- they asked Jamos and I if we wanted to make HATCH HATS- for a contest. So....I was like SURE! Cause, you could win gift cards, etc., so, I went to work on my hat... and then, Jamos jumped on board and made one too! We were out in the HOT HOT temps, making a hate for nearly an hour...then, final judging came in the parking lot of Central Market- in front of the pepper roasters...all 10 of us, stood out there for the MAyOR of HATCH, NEW MEXICO to judge our pepper hats!

The Houston Chronical, our newspaper, was there, along with the news station. It was quite the experience. As we were annouced for judging, people gathered around, I just remember looking at Jamos- who looked like he was SO uncomfortable, but 100% good sport to take part in something like this!

Turns out- I came in 2nd place. I got a gift certificate for the store and a CASE (20lbs) of roasted peppers! Here are some of the pictures- you can see the certificate and my huge case of peppers as I sat on the trunk of our car- and then, once we made it home, we took some more pictures. I do have pictures I will get off my camera and try to post them later! Enjoy. Our lives...are so...interesting sometimes!!!

Cookie Goodness.

I made some cookies yesterday for Jamos to take to his stores- as a motivation basically- give the associates cookies and maybe they will sell your products! :) I don't mind, I actually LOVE to bake, and using the kitchenAid stand mixer and my fabu. cookie skoop, I made some DELICIOUS cookies.:)

veggies are my life.

Jamos and I eat a TON of fruits and veggies. It is quite amazing and I don't realize it until I go to sams for our weekly fruits and veggies....We eat so much of the fresh stuff, I have to buy it from sam's! For instance in my shopping cart on Monday night- I had:

pineapple

bag of lemons

soy milk

asparagus (2lbs)

spring mix (1lb)

4 lbs of strawberries

blueberries

eggs (I only get EB eggs- they taste soo good)

celery hearts

mushrooms

I also normally get tomatoes (capelini sp?) on the vine- so GOOD, or grape tomatoes and rasberries. If I don't choose the spring mix, I get 6 heads of romane lettuce, and we normally eat 1 head each in a salad...which we have like, 4 nights of the week.

It is already wednesday and we are out of asparagus and eaten a large chunk of the other produce. I guess that is good, but it amazes me! I don't realize it until I am eating it!

I LOVE STIR FRY. Basically, I just put olive oil in a pan, then, some garlic (chopped)(I may use more than some- since I LOVE garlic) and tonight, i just threw in a TON of what I had which ended up being: broccoli, onion, mushrooms, celery, asparagus, grape tomatoes. I cook up Jasmin rice- MUCH better than traditional cheap-o rice- I get mine from Whole Foods in the bulk department, we just eat 1 serving, which is 1 cup of rice.. Then, cook accordingly- and then, once the veggies have softened a little, but are still firm, put some rice on the plate, add the veggies, sprinkle some salt, pepper and tonight, we added some cashews for crunk and it is SO good- and a great way to get your veggies. Some nights I add chicken. Tofu works too! It is SO colorful. I actually took a picture!

This is like the ONLY thing I will post for a recipe or something to eat for dinner- since I am REALLY bad at that- which is why we eat salads. Though, I make some AWESOME salads! I always say, "this would cost $10 at a rest." which makes me feel better!! If you want to know how I make a salad, maybe write a comment and let me know! :) IT tastes MUCH better than the traditional iceburg lettuce your grandma serves. :) And, let me assure you, if Jamos will eat the veggies, your husband will too!

Well, after all that veggie talk- I have to admit, today has been a BLAH day. Maybe because I had no coffee to start my day? Not sure....but I struggled for some energy/motivation. It was one of those days, where I didnt want silence while working, but NO CD/music on the ipod was right either, after work, nothing good was on TV, no snack satisfied, no outfit fit right. Just an OFF day. Tomorrow is full of meetings, so I will FOR SURE be setting the coffee timer for tomorrow morning!!!

answer:

The mystery has been solved. Mystery person: 5jyR9IUf1okWIys2oX4pJD64QBZmYg-- turned out to be....


...

...






...

MY MOTHER! :)

Question.

So, I just realized I had some site followers, and I know who 2 of the 3 people are, but, who is the follower with this name:

5jyR9IUf1okWIys2oX4pJD64QBZmYg--

Kinda freakin' me out here people. So, 5jyR9IUf1okWIys2oX4pJD64QBZmYg-- will you come foward and calm my fears about internet stalkers? Thanks.

text book horror

After 7 years of NO homework, I just got my text book for my first masters class. I think in my mind, I thought the reading would be those fabulous books on business and such, but no, it is clearly 4 lbs of learning in a traditional text book. BUMMER. The best part? We have TWO of them, since we are both taking the class. I clearly need some encouragement!

Dry. Need Rain.

Hike #1 yes- it started to rain.
how amazing to lay in the middle of the ROAD! We miss nature and the country SO much...

Hike #2 and yes, we are SO sweaty and gross- which is why we are wearing our bathing suits to hike in.

Our Bed and Breakfast

We saw ALLIGATORS!

The San Jacinto Monument in TX.

On the ferry boat to the San Jacinto Monument.

Wow, something taller than I am!

In the CAR heading east!

We made it to Louisiana!

Back in TX, this is a battleship

Have you been to Louisiana?

I HAVE! Saturday morning, I woke up, thinking..."what are we going to do today?" Jamos came home at like 12 and we decided to go somewhere- just drive in a direction. We packed bathing suits and some snacks and water...a beach towel...some books for me to read in the car. Well, we found some FUN and then kept driving! We saw an exit for the San Jacinto Monument- so we got off the exit- not knowing what we would find! We boarded a ferry while in our car, which took us over the houston ship channel, to the battleground of the San Jacinto Monument and Battleship. The San Jacinto Monument holds the title in the gunise book of world records. Here is what they say on the website "The above prediction was penned in the poem: “Ode to San Jacinto”, even before the Republic of Texas became the State of Texas. Today, the world’s tallest war memorial stands at San Jacinto—15 feet taller than the Washington monument—honoring all those who fought for Texas's independence."

Who knew it was the WORLDS TALLEST memorial! Well, cool! :) We strolled thru the museum, and made our way to the battleship.

Back on I-10 and continued to head east! After a while, we stopped for gas and an ice cold beverage at a gas station, which was next to a LARGE fruit stand which had some awesome produce- but we didn't purchase anything because we had no idea where we would end up that night. We decided to head into Louisiana- I had never been to this state- so, we made that our mission. Once we were there- Jamos said, "what about Lake Charles?" so, we drove to Lake Charles, found a brochure at the visitors center that had phone numbers to some hotels and LOTS of casino's and found 1 room available at a little bed and breakfast called, AUNT RUBYS. We drove there, met Mike, the owner, and found out that he also owns a fabulous restaurant in the old downtown- which is now the historic district and also where the bed and breakfast was located. We ate at his place. YUMM-O. We had some gumbo, some marti-gras salmon, and bread pudding for desert. It was fabulous AND the cuisine of the "area" which is what you HAVE to do if you go to a new place. It is a requirement in our book of travel! :)

The next day, the owner, made us some awesome breakfast in the dining room of the b&b, and then, he told us about this HUGE area of wildlife preserves and refuges. SO, we had to go! It ended up being PERFECT. We were out in the middle of wet lands. My favorite part, was the fact I could hear nothing but the breeze. No cars, no people, no nothing. It was SO peaceful. My favorite part #2 was that you could see for MILES! I miss that- living in the city- you can only see until the next tall building- so, my eyes forget they can see a LONG TIME!!! We got out of the car a lot- to stop and see things- we bought peanut butter, jelly and bread, so we made sandwiches, and also had some drinks from the B&B that we were able to take with us. We are smart travlers- even on a WHIM! :) We stopped and walked a 1.5 mile loop thru a large reserve. It was rather dry, but we did manage to see FOUR alligators! It was also extremly hot- so Jamos got some sun- and I had to wear my bathing suit because it was SO STINKING HOT!!!! But, AWESOME at the same time. I loved it.

We took the coast home, stopped at Holly Beach. The beaches on this side of the Gulf are very different from FL beaches- here the water is brown and silty from the oil drills and rivers.

Anyways, we had FUN. And I am SO thankful to have had the chance to explore a new area with Jamos. We needed to get away- no computers, no work, no nothing really! only the quick things we grabbed when we left. There is something so simple about getting away and not HAVING. You actually ENJOY where you are. And I really loved getting out of the house!!

Risky Business

Life is about taking risks right? Well, tonight, I decided to eat my special veggie soup that I froze the last time I made it. For those who I used to work with at SAU, this is also known as "stinky" soup....WELL, I had 1 container in the freezer- and honestly, I made this soup SO long ago that I have no idea when. We know it was at max 1.5 years old- but I am not sure exactly....maybe a year, maybe less? I know things are FROZEN, but still, it freaks me out- cause it does have some ground turkey. Well, tonight, I decided to eat it- and I am still alive. I have to admit, I was SCARED and made myself feel a bit sick while eating it, but, after I forgot about it- I realized that I am OK. So, risk taken with success.

I would say that another risk of the night was our weekly trip to the Library. Long story short, we used to walk to the library around the corner from our house- well, due to Hurricane Ike last September, there was some structural damage, and they decided to fix it this summer. So, for the past 2 months, we have been venturing out to the Looscan Branch. A few interesting things about this branch. 1) the parking lot is EXTREMLY annoying- lacking parking spaces andis instead full of idiots. 2) we met the "homeless" man who parks himself in his torn up t-shirts and limp leg up the road from our house. Turns out- he likes the library, drives a decent car, and in real life does not wear torn clothes- and in my opinion- makes more in a year than I do. 3) When you walk in this library, it consitantly smells like cow maniure. I can't figure this one out.

Today, due to some storms we had- and usually have in the evening during the summer- the lights were out in some locations on the main "non highway" "drag" of road that connects our place to the library. It took us 30 minutes to go ONE MILE. It was pretty much the most annoying drive EVER. Then, it took us the same amount of time in the library parking lot to find a place to park. Oh, the REALLY funny part of the library, people, like I said are IDIOTS and basically trapped this lady in her parking space by parking directly behind her- well, as we were walking in- I saw this- and decided to help the lady back out- she was chinese and was HILARIOUS. Instead of being mad, she said, in her cute accent, "I don't know why they parked behing ME, I am a horrible driver" over and over and over in her cute little voice. I was laughing as I stepped in the leaking gasoline from someone else's vehicle. ARGH. Sometimes the city can really wear on me! I tell ya.

Anyways, feeling productive and slightly domestic, I made the 1st step of our ice cream making process. It takes 2 days- because you have to heat up and let the "cream" sit over night in the refridgerator. I also spent some time folding clothes with the folder folding shirts, hanging up clothes and refilling my "TRAVEL" shampoo and conditioner. How fun. Life is fun. Right? Well, at least I booked 3 plane tickets- 2 for me and 1 for Jamos.

Honestly, I am still scared about staring my masters class..... it is making me anxious.

TRUE STORY: Jamos just said, "YOKES ON YOU" when he saw the eggs in the refridgerator. HA HA. He thinks I am not laughing at him, but I am and publicly telling everyone about his humor. :)

Beautiful

Why do I doubt? Why do I worry and stress? When I look at this beautiful flower, God created! He created me too! And you! Wow. Why worry when we have the LORD on our side?

overwhelmed

I am feeling VERY overwhelmed right now! I need to get a plane ticket to go to Michigan for Move in day 2009, and there is a chance Jamos will be flying up with me- to see family- but, this whole things is REALLY stressing me out. Working with dates and schedules and places and people to see has been totally at a LOSS. My heart is longing for simplicity, and lately, things are just NOT simple.

MP in Pictures.

My gang! All my fabulous volunteers who come to greet our guests and help with food, etc.,

Our grou- with Danny speaking

This is Melinda, she is fabulous.

This is Maetha, she is the wedding coordinator for the church.

me and Evelyn

Sign in please!

Our sign in table.

This is Evelyn and her family. She is a good friend to me in TX.

The Hall

Carla helping with food prep.

This is the lobby area where we have the food

The lovely name tags and MP workbooks.

Our visitor bags

This is the part of the church where we have MP. The main church is behind me.

This was after a crazy thursday night- jamos got dinner for 2 and these beautiful flowers!