Fun Christmas Photo Shoots

My BFF since 7th grade, Bethany with her baby sleeping in the background! What fun new adventures we shall have as she enters parenthood.

This is Will, my cousin's baby! He is quite the ham.

Wi

This is Danielle, my friend since HS. These are her two crazy kids-they are precious and she is a great mommy!

What have we been up to?

Well, a LOT- it includes flying north to walk in our graduation ceremony- lots of driving- to kentucky and tennessee and back- great times with family- shopping- and more!

Pray for this lady...

Hey, Just asking for your prayers for my Granny. She has been falling lately, and fell again tonight. This time, in the bathroom... She is in the ER waiting...

She hurt her shoulder. Just need prayers for her- that she will be OK. Thanks Prayer Warriors.

No good very bad day



This was Jamos and my day yesterday...

Well, as you can tell, yesterday was a no good very bad day. Today, was a new day. I woke up with a phone call from my ultrasound results that says I have a GOITER. A what? An enlarged thyroid.... great.

So, I get to now go see an endocrinologist who shall tweak my thyroid with the right amout of this and the right amount of that so my thyroid does not get SO big that it becomes noticable...yah.. let's do that before I have to have it removed. Thanks.

This is a picture of the Thyroid. Get to know yours...

Another thing I was thinking about- was- how satan really does want to destroy the Lord's work. It seems like the week before marriageprep, something goes wrong. In the past the week of MP: I was sick (this happened 2 times- both times I have been sick bad since living here), our transmissions went out in our car, computer crashes,  our bank account got hacked into, etc., I am in firm belief that this happens because MarriagePrep is something that the Lord uses to create strong marriages. Obviously, I have a part in that- even if I am only doing the registrations, food, nametags, etc., He also attacks my own marriage by trying to drive us apart (he uses no good very bad days...). So, take that satan. I love my husband.

Tonight, Jamos and I went to feed the cats and my sweet little one bit my finger while I was feeding it turkey...so, if I get a disease or something, Jamos knows which cat bit me so you can test it...

I am a little anxious about this weekend- because we have so much to do- and a lot of homework! eeck! So little time to do all that we need to do for our classes! AH!



A little reminder of Black Bean. The cat who bit me looks like this- just smaller- since it is a kitten-ish.

not sure.

As you know, Jamos and I have been praying and praying about what our next steps will be in life. And, it seems like we have been getting nothing but disappointment in the answers. It is hard to remember that God really is directing our steps, but it is also REALLY frustrating to be so excited about something- only to have it not come to fruition.

Right now I feel angry, sad, at 'wits' end, more anger..., confused, let down, the list really could go on and on- and yet, I don't have anything I can do about it. I pray. I ask/tell God to help my heart.
That doesn't seem to take away the mean feelings about life's situations I am experiencing.

I am sure in the scheme of things - this is nothing but a little bump. I am sure when we do find our footing for our next steps I will say,"Wow, I sure am glad all those other things didn't work out". But in the midst of feeling STUCK right now, I am just plain frustrated. Mad. Ticked.

Life makes no sense. I need prayers.I need to fully believe in what God is doing in our lives. I need to stand firm in my marriage thru this difficult time. I need to not RUN away from the things I cannot control. I need to not try to control everything.

Sleepy

Has this time changed affected anyone else? I keep falling asleep quite early...for instance, just fell asleep on the couch around 6:30pm. Lucky for me- I got to wake up and do homework...We have 10 days. TEN DAYS!!!!! Until we are done! AHH. I can't hold my excitment.

Still praying for our next steps..oh..praying. always praying. God guiding our steps...the people we speak to, etc., and praying that something happens!

In health news- I had a physical last week...you know, the yearly visit where you get blood work taken...pee in a cup, etc., I thought all was well- but, turns out my blood work showed some abnormal thyroid function. It was only a matter of time til this happened. My granny, my mother, my husband are all on thyroid medicine...so that rubbed off on me- and now we are researching my thyroid. I had an ultrasound today (my 3rd ultrasound EVER- 1) gallbladder, 2) cyst behind ear, and 3) Thyroid) and my second in the last month. Anyways, we shall see how it looks to the doc.

Is this TMI or what? Sorry. My blog, my venting right?

So, I have to share how fabulous my husband is... do you remember black bean from this time last year? My sweet black stray cat that showed up on my porch every night at 5pm? Well, I am fairly sure her great grandkitties are now living at the dumpster... 3 little black kittens and the one that looks most like black bean lets me pet her and pick her up! But, only when I have food! :) There are a total of 8 cats out there by the dumpster- 2 are related and then, 3 kittens andtheir mom and dad. Plus, a white one that I am not sure where she belongs.. anyways- Jamos is allergic to cats- and he pretty much is a dog person, which stinks because I love cats...
Well, I have been walking around the "block" of our complex to see the kitties at night and bring them some food (canned food of course) and well, I am just so thankful when he comes with me- and plays with the cat who hates pretty much everyone- but likes Jamos. It is so interesting. This cat has followed Jamos all the way to our apartment one time- and it lets him get closer than any person. Anyways, next time you see J- you can call him the cat whisperer! :) ha ha.
Basically, that story was just to show you how those little moments in a marriage mean the most- to me anyways!

Let's see...what other ramblings can I talk about? I have not gone to Target in like a week- and I have saved quite a bit of money...:) GO ME!

OH, MarriagePrep is this Friday/Saturday. Pray for us. It should be VERY interesting to see how our new schedule works out- we are cutting back on breaks- adding some new things- and my friend, who teaches it, is actually the one who was just diagnosed with breast cancer. We only have about 110 people signed up, but still, it is a lot of work that goes into weekends like this- and I just PRAY that it goes well!

Sometimes, when I realize how much I do- full time work at SAU- MP, grad school, I wonder what am I thinking? It is a really good thing we don't have kids- because I would have a nervous breakdown already!!

Welp, better go think of something to feed us for dinner. I hate this time of night. Boo.

WOTY

Yes, this stands for Wife of The YEAR!!! :) That is me. Since I was up and at the car shop with our car at 7am- walked home- they fixed the car- walked back to get it- and had it all fixed and ready for my husband before he was ready to leave the house. AWESOME?! Yes, sometimes, I wish I was married to myself.
Is that strange?

Now that we are almost done with school there are a few things I want to try/do:
- learn how to crochet
- start cake decorating (already got my 52 piece kit!)
- make J and I a "health folder" where we can keep anything regarding our health.
- vacuum our cars out
- Continue my "felt" projects.

hmmmmmmm.

Monkey Knots, Stuck in Park, Rain

I just have to say- that this day has been interesting! I was feeling cozy- so I made my delcious butternut squash/apple soup. It is SO good. Trust me. I am not a yam/orange family fan. Not even pumpkins THAT much. So, to eat a squash is a big deal. And this is delicious. Serve with croutons. YUM. So, I was feeling cozy, warm, lovely since the temps got cooler around these parts....
Jamos and I were on target with our homework for tonight- which means free time...he chose to spent that looking up monkey knots or something....

I stopped drinking diet pop (soda) around Feb.- and so my favorite drink is sparkling water. Not the flavored fake kinds, just sparkling water. Most people find it discusting, but I really like the bubbles...OK- so I decided I wanted to go to the store to get some more sparkling water since we were out. Jamos decided he wanted to come with me since he needed some type of parachut cord to make his new craft: monkey knots or whatever.

It is raining...
I asked to drive his car. Our little "whitey" which is a white, 99 honda accord. It has quite a few miles on it- and yes, we plan on replacing it soon- since we basically have replaced the entire car in the 10 years that I have owned it! Anyways, the last time I drove- we had a huge brake line leak...

After going to REI to grab the parachut cord- we came out- in the rain- to realize that I can't get the car out of park.
My sweet husband is uttering words of kindness to me...in the mean time, I I try to push the car in the rain to get it to move (why? I have no idea).
Lucky for us, we still have our owner guide- which indicated how to release the car from the "stuck" park position- which WORKED! And allowed us not to have to tow our car twice in 2 months! Though we have AAA, I didn't feel like waiting in the rain for them to arrive.

When we got home- I called my mom (my dad was already sleeping!) and Jamos went to work researching online. He discovered that it could be as simple as a FUSE. He said we needed to go see if the brake lights worked- because if they weren't working- it would really be a fuse. So, my mom (on the phone) and I and Jamos went outside in the dark and the rain- and our brake lights didn't come on!!! So, I am REALLLLLY hoping it is just a fuse, not another $700 car problem. We will take it to SAL up the road in the morning. I will make cookies for them. (if you go anywhere like a local place, take cookies! I get fast service now!! and nothing beats when Sal takes the cookies to the shop and goes "WE HAVE COOKIES!") :)

So, my night was not a total relaxation night...but rather another lesson in mechanics. Hey, maybe when I am done with this masters, I can go to tech school...that would be AWESOME! I would LOVE to learn how to fix my own cars....

Keep on Keeping on

The weather has finally turned cooler- but it is raining, which means I can't really go outside and play in the fun, cool weather.
I can however try to enjoy the fact that in 17 days I will be DONE WITH SCHOOL. I seriously cannot tell you how great this is.
Of course, it has not really sunk in yet.
But, I am trying to realize that in 17 days I don't have to do homework for a while! (hopefully forever- but never say never right?!).

I am debating about getting a DYSON. I have a review thing going on facebook. But, I really love a good vacuum, so I am hoping that if we take the plunge it will be worth it! :)

In other news, jamos and I were able to vote last night. It never hits me until we have voted- how amazing our nation is- that we have the opportunity to VOTE. Do you know how many people do not have this freedom?
No matter what the results, we all have a chance to make our vote count. If you have never voted, I encourage you to research, talk, and understand the decisions being made in our political world.

Did I tell anyone that my bank here got robbed? It did! I can't believe it. Never banked at a location that had been robbed before...especially with a semi-automatic. Whew! Glad everyone was safe.

Jamos and I are still praying for open doors and asking that you pray too. I am really trying to understand that God knows the desires of both of our hearts for our future and as we trust in him to guide our steps in this life, I have to also trust that he knows what is best and exactly what we need! So far, so good! :)

Be a blessing to somoene today!

Howdy! 22 days until GRADUATION!!! This may be the longest 22 days EVER- but the end is in sight. I like 22 days much more than a few months ago when we had to talk in "6 classes left..." type deal. I realize now how depressing that sounds.

Things have been going OK. I realize we have a lot to be thankful for - even in our current state of "confusion" about life. We have had our dear friend diagnosed with breast cancer. Darn that cancer. Be GONE!

A few weeks ago Jamos and I got a George Foreman Grill. It was a good price, and we wanted to try it- so, we got it! And, let me tell you- I LOVE IT! Well, Jamos loves it because he can actually eat more than salad for dinner...

Riikka and I carved pumpkins this past weekend. We made little houses on it- and cut out the windows. That was fun- until I set them outside in a cute fall decor way- and 2 days later the pumpkin was filled with mold and flies. That is GROSS. The reason? The 90 degree weather we have been having! COME ON! Is it nearly November or is it still SUMMER? I would love to turn off my a/c for a bit. PLEASE!

Has anyone seen a good movie lately?

I am itching to get crafty again! Since I have less than a month until I have FREE TIME again, I am getting really excited about different new craft ideas.
1st- felt. I have never spent much time with felt before- but, it is AWESOME. I am pretty addicted to felt flowers- and I got a new felt holiday craft book from the library. There are some pretty GREAT felt ideas in there that I can't wait to try!

My second craft goal is to work on CAKE making! I got an entire cake making set-- in the hopes I can make cute cakes. I need to practice on my icing capabilities. But, I am READY! I owe this to the cake shows on TV and my love of frosting! :)

Keep praying for open doors!

say what?

This week was a week of firsts! First, I went and got a pedicure with my friend Riikka. She always finds these interesting places...I picked her up from work and we drove (well, we were stuck in traffic for EVER) to the place she gets her nails filled.... This small building with metal guarded windows also offered, tanning AND dry cleaning....
I was like, uh.

The threat of foot infection always crosses my mind....

But, I sat down and stuck my foot in the portable bucket of water and got my toes painted BLUE.

:)

Never have I had blue toes before...
it is refreshing.

Now, part 2 of NEW things I am still experiencing at the age of 30 is this: the FLU SHOT!

Long story short, I found a bump behind my ear about 2 weeks ago (maybe longer). I went to my doctor, who ordered an ultra sound, which I had last week. After the results came back my doctor told me to go to an ear nose throat doctor downtown to get it looked at. The result: my first cyst. I have a cyst behind my EAR. It is really small. But, scared me b/c I didn't want to die of a brain tumor...

The threat of realizing my own mortality was interesting. My mind of course went to those dark places...am I dying?

Anyways, after a very indepth appointment with the ENT, I got the "go" that we didn't need to do anything about it- just watch it- and if it grows or becomes painful, call him back.

As I was walking IN the door, I noticed a sign that said, "FLU VACCINE WITH ANY ENT APPOINTMENT" Which made me feel like a sale was happening, so I inquired. What does that mean? I can get a flu shot? I have never gotten a flu shot before, but why do you normally have to pay like, $25 at Walgreens for one if you can get it from your doctor?

I have never gotten a flu shot because when I was younger, I heard that my grandfather got really sick each time he got a flu shot. That scared me.

But, I decided to get my "freebie" (which will likely show up on my insurance as something I have to pay for out of pocket...) and get my shot!!!

The lady was so nice I got to pick from the TREASURE CHEST of toys!!! I chose a fish that squirts water. :)

So far so good. I took advil like she said and I am fine. So, go get your flu shot. It includes H1N1 (swine flu). :)


We are abot to end week 3 of our final class. I believe we have something like 36 days left until we graduate! We need to get a plane ticket.... we were hoping we woudl somehow be moved back to Michigan in this time frame...apparently God has other plans for us that include us being right here. stuck. Right here.

Pray for us. Pray for Jamos. Pray for open doors.

great blog!

http://www.lisaleonardonline.com

Check out this blog. I love her story, I love her Jewelry! :)

Clean Carpets

Just got our carpets cleaned. There is something about CLEAN FLOORS that makes the entire house feel better! Seriously, this is what I am getting excited about.

Fall is in the air

Well folks, fall has been in the air for the last week here in the southern U.S. I am enjoying the windows open, the sunshine, the low humidity, the birds chirping, the pumpkin/fall decor, a reminder of the change in seasons.

A change in season is really a refreshing thing isn't it?

How many times in our life do we remember that we have seasons...
Ecc 3:1 "For everything there is a season, and a time for every purpose under heaven"

Last night I attended a women's night of praise at our church. It was fun and filled with ladies! The purpose was to remind us to find JOY in all seasons.

How hard is that? We have seasons...sadness, loneliness, happiness, hurt, disappointments... seasons.

But the goal is the find JOY in each and to continue to SOW. Don't give up.

Psalm 126
Our mouths were filled with laughter,
our tongues with songs of joy.
Then it was said among the nations,
"The LORD has done great things for them."

3 The LORD has done great things for us,
and we are filled with joy.

4 Restore our fortunes, [c] O LORD,
like streams in the Negev.

5 Those who sow in tears
will reap with songs of joy.

6 He who goes out weeping,
carrying seed to sow,
will return with songs of joy,
carrying sheaves with him.


All this to say that it is OK to cry in the seaons that make us sad. BUT remember, to continue to sow our seeds that the Lord called us to sow. Because we will reep what we sow, and in everything there is a SEASON!

WHATEVER

If you follow me on facebook, you know that is the word of the day. WHATEVER. It is basically my response to all the stupid stuff that I hear about, the stupid things that are happening to me and happening to the one's I love. WHATEVER!

It is really hard sometimes to understand what God is doing. I know he is bigger than us, created us, loves us, wants good things for us, but often lately I am left wondering what he is going to do in our lives.

I like to know what is coming my way, what to expect, what to look forward to. To just hear the "NO's" of today it is really easy to realize that a "YES" will come soon enough and we will know what our next steps should be.

This also reminds me of how interesting the older you get, the more decisions are harder to make because so many decisions impact situations in the future. Sure, we could sell all that we own and move to some remote area of the planet, BUT, is that using what God has given us wisely?

OR we could do what we do for this is what we know, and miss out on some incredible opportunities. I would say this, both Jamos and I know that change is coming. We don't know what type of change, or what these means, but we LONG for something different. You hear me rant about how we are STUCK in HOUSTON. And, if you give me long enough, I will say that is how I feel today more than anything-- STUCK. WHATEVER.
I love my job. I love my husband. But, I also our families, our friends who we live far from. We just finished a very great class called, "sprituality in the workplace" and although I went into this thinking it was talking about Christianity in the workplace, I learned the difference between religion and spirituality. Each person NEEDS to find a fulfilment in their work, something that touches their core and gets them out of bed each morning. Another interesting aspect is that of leadership. People really need to understand if they manage a group of people, the impact THEY have on the group. I sure wish I knew what I know now about management when I was in charge of the admissions reps at SAU. I thought I was a good leader, but I am learning how much impact a leader can have- when using both servant and spiritual leadership. It can change lives. And make a job more fulfilling.

WHATEVER.

I don't think that this post actually makes sense. In fact, I am more confused now than I was when I started writing it. But, I do beg you- reader to PRAY for Jamos and I. Hopefully you have been, and we appreciate that. It is easy to become discouraged when the face of God seems hidden in the tough moments of life. We have MUCH to give thanks for- we HAVE jobs, a home, food, clean water, an education, TWO cars, etc., But, we also feel a bit lost, confused and stuck in the place we are at right now.
A positive in this is marriage. Two people- going thru the SAME THING. TOGETHER. Maybe all of this is to soley teach us a lesson in partnership and the true meaning of marriage. Life isn't roses and beaches, but rather, windy days with some lightening and hail....big hail that HURTS when it hits you on the head.
WHATEVER.

Puppy Love

Well, let's see... Sunday was a crazy day. I went to work out with my friend Riikka at a great yoga store called Lululemon. They offer free classes, so we tend to go. Anyways, she came over and I was going to drive Jamos' car. I got in- and the brake light was on- I thought maybe the parking brake was on for some reason? And, so, I was like, well, I guess I can try to drive it. Well, I didn't get out of our parking lot before I realized we would NOT be taking Jamos' car to the workout. The brakes were NOT working right- and the peddle was going all the way to the floor.

I HATE CAR ISSUES!

So, Monday comes around- and I have to drive Jamos to the airport in the morning- and then get our car TOWED from our parking lot- to the auto shop to get looked at. Oh, and there is obviously a leak in the brake line because brake fluid is leaking out like mad.

So, now Jamos is in New Orleans, the car is at the shop waiting for new brake lines since ours rusted out(thanks michigan winters and salty roads). It isn't an easy fix or a cheap fix, but I am still grateful for how it worked out and that Jamos wasn't driving and left stranded anywhere.

Anyways. We finish up our class on Sunday and start our LAST TWO GRADUATE classes on MONDAY!!! We are VERY excited to graduate on November 20, 2010 with our MASTERS DEGREE! :)

Office Chair

Many of you may or may not know that our 2nd bedroom is both a guest room and an office. We use it mostly for an office room- for Jamos and then it is also where we do our homework. Well, for some reason when we bought Jamos a desk for back here- we never got an office chair. So, he has been using a folding chair from our set of folding chairs and table... well, he had been putting an old pillow on the seat of the folding chair the the past....5 months or so.... yes, sad day if you knew how much time was spent back here on homework.

I was shopping at the container store yesterday and saw a bungee chair. I sat in it and it was really comfortable- it rolled and moved back and forth (swivled) and then I remembered seeing these bungee chairs at Target this week on sale. SO- off I went to get one of these chairs for my husband.
It is GREAT! :) And, we ask ourselves how we lived here with no desk chair for nearly 3 years....I am not sure really.
So, all this to say- if you need a desk chair- I suggest getting one! :)

* I am sitting in it right now at his desk. :)

I am also excited because tonight and tomorrow Jamos and I will be attending a Love and Respect Conference at church. We bought tickets a while ago- but I am really excited to go! We haven't been to a marriage conference since we were dating and I really appreciate the wisdom from the Love and Respect books.
You can check out their website here: http://www.loveandrespect.com/

The Emmerson's live in Michigan of all places, so it is funny that we come to texas to hear them speak! Either way, I am excited.

This week has also been nice because we have had only one class. Having just ONE class makes all the difference in our stress level! Of course, in another week we will start our FINAL 2 classes!!

Also pray for my brother in law- Javin- who will be starting his time with YWAM- Youth With a Mission. He will be in Orlando for a few months and then spend 1 month in another country applying what he has learned. We are proud of him for taking this step of growth and discovery as he waits to hear from the Lord as to what his next steps will be.

Jamos and I continue to ask for your prayers for us as we seek our next steps. Not that we are tired of Houston... But, we would LOVE to get back to our friends and family. When we were back in Michigan, we really enjoyed it and it filled up our cups again to come and fight this texas world together. For anyone who has lived away from family understands how much a family is also a support system. When I was in college- I was across the country from my mom- who is also my best friend. We handled it well because we used the phone, e-mail, packages, etc.,
The same goes for us now. We need that support from family and friends and at times, in this busy world, it is harder to give and to get. ALL of this to say, we would love to be closer to family.

And... I think that is all I can think to write. Enjoy your day. Be blessed!

Updates from us

I am sure most of you have given up on checking for updates from our blog! Sorry about that. I have no excuse other than: mom came for a visit, move-in day at SAU, MarriagePrep August, 2 grad school classes, and a trip to Michigan! We have been a bit busy.

Let's see... Jamos and I just got back from a great trip to Michigan. Even with the purchase of a plane tickets, a rental car, parking at the airport, and vacation time taken, the trip to see family is always worth the cost. We had a great time in Michigan even if the weather wasn't ideal. I just love the lake, the pier, the farms, the fresh peaches, the smell of the breeze. There is something about Michigan that I LOVE. Being back at SAU was fabulous too. It always feels like coming home for me. Like I never have left- even if there are new people around, there are the same familiar faces and many hugs to be had! All my kids showed up- which is good.

Yesterday was Jamos and my third wedding anniversary. Too bad he left in the wee hours of the morning for Corpus, where a tropical storm had just flown thru. BUT, on the subject of marriage, I just have to say how I am continuing to get to know my husband. It is amazing each day what I learn about him and how we can both work together to bring out our best. I love that I have someone who knows what I am thinking before I say it out loud- that we say the same "things" and make the same hand motions...the list can go on and on.... I just love him! We sure have experienced a lot in our three years of marriage- we have been strengthened with the trials- there has been a lot of laughter, love, and joyous moments for us.

Pray For Granny!

My granny has been sick for a while and was just admitted to the hospital. They are running tests and hoping to make her feel better! So, I am asking everyone to pray for her! :)

:)

Where have I been?

Could I go a few more weeks without blogging? Yes. But, I didn't want you to have to wait that long for an update of nothingness. Last week I was in San Diego at IYC. It was an AWESOME time. I was pretty nervous about flying out there in week 5 of 6 week grad classes, but, as usual, it all worked out perfectly. I met some amazing kids and grown ups and was so glad I could represent SAU again someplace! I miss the days of college fairs and high school visits. :)




I have to say, that San Diego is a beautiful place. The ocean, the beaches, the cool air off the pacific...the surf boards, the traffic!, the starbucks, the friends, and the students of IYC were all highlights for me.

Anyways, now that I am back home- we are approaching the end of week 6- which means DONE with our THREE classes. praise GOD.

Have you ever felt stuck? Like, stuck in life? I think Jamos and I feel stuck right now. We have been praying and seeking the Lord for new directions. But, apparently the Lord wants us in Houston right now. It is so frustrating to desire to be elsewhere, but be stuck with no ideas/plans/anything to cling to. I guess the good in this is that we are stuck together! :) I was trying to remember the last time I felt this way- and it was a LONG time ago- so long I don't really remember. I know the Lord has a plan and I HAVE to trust in that. But, boy is it hard to trust when I don't even feel the Lord answering. We have had some very "real" conversations lately....hope God is okay with that.

He is growing us for something big. I have to remember that.

Happy 4th of July

Jamos and I had zero plans for the 4th. In fact, I did not see ONE firework go off in the sky either. Sad, eh? I guess that is what we give up to do what we are doing with school and work right now.
Call us Mr. and Mrs. Party Pooper.

Anyways, I WAS reminded how thankful I am to be an American. In church, we started by saying the pledge of allegiance. I wish I said this more. We said it each morning growing up in school, but now that we are out in the world and are able to understand our nation- UNDER GOD- we never recite this before our work day! It is a shame. To be reminded is a blessing.

I love singing patriot songs in church. We heard from men who fought in some great battles for our nation. I wonder what they think of today's society who has no American pride. I wish I could pick my grandfather's brain about his story. He received a purple heart for his service to our country- but beyond that- I don't really know the stories. I take it for granted.

God Bless America!

Economics! Negotiations! HR-Legal Issues- OH MY!

Man, These classes are kicking my brain into learning shape. I won't go into detail, but so far, I like my negotiations class and dislike my economics class. Econ wouldn't be that bad if we had a GOOD teacher. This lady is rude and also provides ZERO feedback/answers to questions. Personally, I dislike that. If you want to teach, help me LEARN. Don't just force my brain into panic mode by not being available. In college I changed my major because I would have to take 2 semesters of Economics. Somehow, I managed to get a D in college- my LOWEST grade of my entire college career and got out of the second semster of the program. Whew. But, now, here I am 9 years later and am taking an economics class! Who had this bright idea? I will blame JAMOS! :)

Anywhoot.

The weekend is here- Jamos had a VERY stressfull week which included me sitting in the gardening section of Lowes with a washing machine doing a trial run for his huge 80 person training the following day. The bad news is that we blew a fuze that was connected to the cash register and the hose that was draining the water fell out of the bucket getting laundry soap water all over the gardening section. The other negative included the fact that the large bucket we had keeping the water in once we managed to get the hose back- had a hole which we did not notice until we were loading the washer up on the flat bad cart. Blah blah blah. The other story is that while in the Lowe's training room I nearly broke the projector he had to use for the slide show- and after praying in my head, it wasn't broke (small piece of plastic stuck in the fan....) and could be used. WHEW- Jamos was NOT a happy camper when that happened. The drink machine ate my quarter, Jamos was starving and grumpy, I met customers in the department and was talking with them about their appliance purchase and really feel that I would be awesome at selling appliances. :) I have great customer service skills and really enjoy talking to people- PLUS I do a lot of laundry in a crappy apartment machine and usually drool as I walk thru the aisle looking at the energy efficient models....my fav: Maytag Bravos. It is a traditional top loader, but uses like, no water! Although, I have many other favorites across the appliance department and I would be happy to share if you care to know.

Anyways, today when we were at Chick-fil-A using our FREE coupons (I have about 50 coupons for a free sandwhich, parfet (SP?), and medium drink), we were leaving- driving thru the parking lot and this lady was wearing a VERY SHORT SKIRT- and something that I have NEVER seen happen in my entire life happened. She was bending over getting something out of her car.....yes, let's just say, i saw more of this lady than I ever wanted- AND I could NOT STOP LAUGHING! ha ha ha. Anyways, sorry if that sounds creepy. It was funny and apparently I laugh at stressful situations.

Well, back to the homework. Or, should I say H to the WORK! :)

P.S we have an unspoken prayer request...eh, I know you want to know what it is...but, it is unspoken! The Lord knows :)

Jack Hannah

Do you know who I am talking about? I just scanned thru the channel and had to stop at Jack Hannah due to fond memories of early saturday morning learning with him!

I was up late last night finishing homework (2am people) and up early this morning to start the day. Jamos has his huge training on Thursday that is requiring much prep work. AHH! I pray we can have a low key week next week with our classes, but I am not sure tht will happen either!

Hmmm.

Well, I don't have much to write here- just feel the need to do something besides think and be anxious!!!

h to the work.

That is what I call HOMEWORK! :) I know it is boring if I blog about homework, but I have to say, we have 1 week down, 5 weeks to go of THREE CLASSES at the SAME TIME. Yes, we are crazy and YES if anything else in life could come up during this time period, it likely will. For instance, our class started on Monday- that is the day Jamos jumped out of a plane (went skydiving). Then, on Wed-Fri he was in Atlanta for work....We were up until 2am on Tuesday night finishing items due on Wednesday (since he was going to be in atlanta). And this weekend was filled with H to the WORK. :) It seems the more we do the crazier life gets. Isn't that the truth?

I was talking with my dad the other day about how Jamos and I are going to go nuts with all the homework and he reminded me that I am lucky to just be doing homework. I could be fighting in a war like many people are...so, that brought it back to perspective for me.

It is easy to get wrapped up in some pretty stupid things in the scheme of things. I am glad that my dad seems to always bring it "back" to what is important.

Last week Jenn and Jeret (Jamos' brother)were in town. We had a GREAT TIME with them here in Houston! We ate a lot of food and I showed them all the random things about our life in Houston- such as "that is my bank" "that is where I get my hair done" ha ha. I posted earlier some shots of their engagement pictures. So excited about them!

And, let's see... it is raining right now. Oh, I had a girls night last Thursday when Jamos was in Atlanta. My friends Riikka and Sarah came over and we chatted and talked and it was lovely. We even got to paint nails- which I am a fan of doing! :)
I will be sad b/c for three weeks Riikka will be headed back to Finland. It is a bummer, but I will see her again! She is bringing me back some eyelash tint...heard of that? It is GREAT! I actually did it with her but the color was light brown (she is blonde) so it didn't really show up- but you can tint your eye lashes so that even if you are not wearing mascara, they are dark! I am excited. You can't get the stuff here (the best stuff anyways) or you can order it online, but in Finland you can get it for $10 at the local store. I am excited for some lash tinting!!!

Jamos has been VERY busy at work. He has a HUGE training on Thursday that he is preparing for...over 80 people. It is NUTS! So, I am proud of his hard work at getting all that he needs to get done done- plus throw in some homework!!!

We don't have a marriageprep event until August, but we do have to work the Bridal booth downtown at the bridal show. I am recruiting volunteers with ZERO success. BOO.

Well, I'd better get to the going.... homework is calling which means I will go clean something!!!

Happy Engagement!

These are just a few pictures I took my brother in law and his new fiance. I know they want to "release" them when they are ready- but I figured since I love showing my photography, I wanted to share some on my blog. They were in Houston last weekend and we spent Sunday afternoon taking some pictures around the area.

Jamos' Birthday in Pictures

Memorial Weekend BBQ

Saturday was such a fun day! I met my friend Riikka at the pool and we were out there all day long! I have met a lot of new friends around the apartment complex, which is fun! I even met a guy from Monroe Michigan!

After our pool day, we met back up at the BBQ pit poolside- and grilled corn, burgers, and other fresh veggies followed by a fruit salad! :)

Ah it was AWESOME! Riikka is from Finland and her husband is from Norway.

The big 2-6!

26 years ago my husband was born into this world. Like me, he was a premature little one...now he is a wonderful man with a beautiful heart and a smile that melts my heart. I am lucky to be married to this man...even if he is younger than me...still in his twenties and wrinkle free. :)

tea time

Lately, I have been having such fun with my yoga girls! We are actually more friends than yoga girls now- since we see each other more than just on yoga nights! Last week we went for coffee and a nice long walk with visits to each of our apartments.... And today we met at Sarah's house for tea! What fun! She is from England, and then Canada. Riikka is from Finland. So it is a LOT of fun for me to be with these girls. We are all so alike, yet so different!

I, being the nerd that I am, brought my ring cleaning kit....and cleaned their rings. Sarah is getting married in September and Riikka is already married. Oh fun for me! I love making diamonds sparkle! :)

Ah, it was SO NICE to be social. Though, I at times I think I have lost some social ability after working from home for 2 years....

Haha!

This weekend we may get our nails done, visit the farmer market AND see if our kitties are at the SPCA! I am excited. :)

We are in our LAST WEEK of finance class. Can I get an AMEN?! I can't believe that I am actually getting an A in FINANCE! Of course, I owe a lot to my husband who is quite good at explaining, re-explaining, and correcting me when I try...BUT, I have done it! :)

This summer we are taking 3 classes. Negotiations, Economics, and Legal issues in HR. We are taking these classes at the SAME TIME. Yes, we are CRAZY. But, if we can do this, we can finish WAY SOON with our Masters. So, six weeks of CRAZY will be worth it!! I am nearly having a panic attack JUST thinking about this stuff...We start June 14 and the classes end July 25. If we don't answer our phone during this time period- you know why! :)

ANYWAYS!!! My house is a mess as usual....trying to get rid of more stuff. On Saturday I went thru our closets and re-labeled and organized everything. I also have 4 boxes of stuff to take to goodwill! :) LOVE IT!

Last night I made stuffed cabbage rolls. I got it from Trisha Yearwoods new cookbook. I was just happy to actually FEED my husband. Whew. :) Success.

This is my NEW cold drink cup! I LOVE iced coffee. If I am at starbucks, I get an Americano- which is cheap, fat free, and includes espresso :)

So, when I went today with my new friends who I have gone to yoga with for a while, and saw this cup, I was SOO EXCITED!

It is plastic, double walled and totally amazing! I can't wait to drink my cold drinks from this cup. The straw is even re-usable, which is GOOD- because I go thru like, 5 straws a DAY! (we are big straw people around here I guess!).

Jamos and I got yet another A in our ethics class, maintaining our 4.0 grade in GRADUATE SCHOOL. Amazing...really. In elementary school I always tried SO hard...same in Jr. High and high school- yet there were always those classes...those darn math type classes, or classes that were soley based on tests....and I was happy to get a C if you know what I mean.. then came college- where I did the best yet- and now graduate school. We sure do try HARD at it, so I am glad it is reflected in our grades!! GO J AND E! :)


My hubs is working late yet again- but I am puppy sitting- and that sweet maltese is sleeping in our bed right now (it is storming and it doesn't like thunder). ha ha ha. LOVE HER! So, I am having a GREAT day!!!! Fun with friends, got work done, cleaned the house and did laundry- got a new mug to drink my coffee in... ahh..

I should say here that I have not drank a diet coke in like four months. It was kind of random how it happened....as Jamos and I have been trying to figure out our future (which- who knows the future except the Lord) I thought, well, I could give this up as we pray about it- and then, my desire for the diet coke just went away! It is crazy. Of course, there are days that I want one, but the desire goes away as quick as it came. I don't really feel different...BUT...at least I don't have to listen to Jamos tell me to stop drinking so much diet coke- which I never bought it like, at the grocery store- I would just buy it when we were out- or I would love to walk around target drinking it while looking for good deals and couponing. So, I have to admit, I don't go to Target as much- which is also good for the WALET! :)

Britt Nicole - Walk On The Water (Slideshow With Lyrics)

I heard this song for the first time today and I know it spoke to my heart. How many times does fear and anxiety stop us from reaching our fullest potential? Maybe you aren't as fearful as I am at times, but I know that when I think about the future, I can get trapped by fear of the unknown.
I hope this song speaks to your heart like it did to mine!

what a day!

Went to bed at 1am-Jamos was up at 4am to leave for a 6:30am flight to Chicago. That was the morning- then, had lunch with my friend EC- at a new mexican place- AWESOME. Then, I get home- and still have a RAT in my outter wall. I know- GROSS. Trust me. I have complained. Complained. Investigated. Searched. Researched. They put stuff out for it yesterday- we shall see.... I hope I don't hear it in the wall anymore. I could go on forever about how obsessed I am with it- but I won't. I went to the office to complain, and I was talking to Keith, the maintance guy- and he indicated that he saw kitten's in an abandoned car on the property (hello, we don't live in a dump!)- so we went out there- I climbed in the back of the jeep thru the plastic covering- to unlock the doors so we could see in better- and sure enough- we ended up finding 5 baby kittens. Amazing. I ran to get my friend Riikka who volunteers at the SPCA and we do yoga together- she has a cat carrier and got that and we pulled the sweet babies from the car. Then, we drove to the SPCA- turns out they are 5 weeks old- in good health and I have a feeling they will be adopted NO problem!! She gave me a tour of the SPCA- and what amazingly wonderful place. I was touched. It was so nice, so clean, such a blessing to animals who have nothing. I really wish I had time to go thru their training program to volunteer there with them- but at this point, I don't. Boo.
I was wondering if Jamos would have let me keep 1 of the sweet kitties.....I doubt it- but man, that would have been AMAZING!!! :)

I went for a walk later- after letting the office know what we did with the kittens- and reminded them that the car has been there FOREVER- and so like an hour later- the tow truck came and took it away- which is good b/c we don't need MORE animals born in this dumpy truck. Amen! :) Sometimes I feel like I should run this apartment complex. At least- be a detective of what is going on around here....
Lame.
I know.

Oh, and on my walk- I saw the mama cat- I thought MAYBE it would have been black bean- but I think it was one of black beans kids- who is now having kittens- another GREAT reason to stop the cycle of stray cats....

I am also on a vinegar and baking soda cleaning kick. AMAZING!! Toxic free.... so nice :)

Try it.

Are you a hoarder?

Usually in the course of my day- stuff happens and I think in terms of blogging about it-then when it comes down to writing, all of my thoughts our gone. If only I could blog with brain power- not typing.
Shoot.

The past two weeks I have heard about TWO divorces of highly respected people- who are Christians and love the Lord. Again, this always seems to dishearten me- only making me realize how SACRED our marriages are and how important it is to protect this special covenant. It is sad... :(

We also have something our wall again- I thought it was a squirrel- cause a little squirrel friend was standing by our wall in the hallway a lot- but, I guess the maintance guy said a squirrel can't fit in that hole- and said it isn't that- so I don't know what it is! EW.

I have been doing yoga for nearly 2 years now....and I still cannot touch my toes.

Everyone should watch the show on TLC about hoarding. http://tlc.discovery.com/tv/hoarding-buried-alive/

It is a really sad. People's lives are GREATLY affected by this disease. There houses fill up with clutter and pretty soon- no one can walk around in the house- which not only affects quality of life- but health and well-being.

They made a GREAT point for those who can't bear to get rid of something b/c of a memory it is associated with- and we can't let the STUFF be the memory.
We have the memories and they won't go away when we get rid of the clutter.

In our tiny apartment we have a lot of stuff and only 2 closets to store it- so I feel like we have so much stuff around us all the time. It drives me crazy and I DO NOT want to be controlled by my STUFF.

Just b/c something is on sale- I shouldn't buy it.

Just b/c it would be fun to purchase something- I don't NEED it (think in terms of the clutter it will create once I get it home).

That thought alone has been saving me a LOT of money lately!

Just get rid of it!!!!!

It free's up a lot of my mind to take stuff to goodwill.
Praise God.
Let's keep a cleaning it OUT!!!! :)

Taste like Bounce

So, I bought a pack of tortillas because I like to make Jamos a wrap in his lunch- it is easier to eat while he is on the road.

Today I grabbed the pack, which I somehow stacked on our dryer- which is located in our kitchen- so I occassionaly place random things on top of it- because we don't have a LOT of counter space.

I made his lunch...and a few hours later called to see how his day was going. He was sitting in his car eating his lunch in the parking lot of one of his stores- and said, "man, this tastes like a flower smells" and he was questioning my dish soap- since I just washed the container before he left. I was like, hmmm.

Then it hit me. BOUNCE DRYER SHEETS!!!!!! The smell from the box of bounce which was also on top of the dryer seeped into the 2 layers of plastic in the tortillas. I grabbed the pack that I had placed in the fridge because I just opened them...and took a bite of one- nearly gagged. YUCK!

I don't know how he ate 1/2 of his wrap. I had to spit out my bite, wash my mouth with water and put in gum to forget the smell and stop the gag reflex.

I decided to call BOUNCE to make sure he wasn't going to die after consuming the tortilla- and they said he would be OK. :) I had to give them a bunch of information because it could be a medical issue - even though I was reassured that it was likely just fragrance that he ate.
...
I called Jamos back and told him that I called BOUNCE and they said he would be okay-to just drink water. He had already had to buy mints from the vending machine and was using his last dollar for some more water.

I guess that is one way to freshen your breath!

Quick

What a FAST week.The business of everything surely does make time fly! Let's see...what can I say that will be exciting? I am addicted to making fresh squeezed grapefruit juice! I normally would say I don't like grapefruit- but we have some texas grapefruits that have been on sale- like 18 pounds for 3 bucks- so I get out my little juicer and make lots of delicious juice! Fresh is always the way to go!

My house is a mess. Anyone want to come clean for me?

MarriagePrep is happening on May 7-8- and I need more couples to sign up!!!

foreign language or finance class?

I spent my morning in the nursery at church for 4 hours playing with sweet babies like this:



It was SOOOO MUCH FUN!!!!!

HAPPY EASTER!!! Jesus has RISEN!!!! HE HAS RISEN INDEED! What a blessed weekend- knowing what we have to rejoice about! Can't really be sad about much when we know that Christ died for us- and has risen!

Friday I went to work with Jamos. Let's just say- my husband works HARD and a LOT!!!! We were on the crazy highways bright and early and didn't get home until like 10:30pm. WHEW!!!! What a day!! But, it was nice to spend time together while he works... and works he does! I even got to see him put his spanish to use- while he was interpreting for a family!

I found a new hair favorite- from Bumble and Bumble-

2 down...2 more....(in addition to many others)

We ended our Organizational Behavior class and Leadership class- which included a TON OF HOMEWORK on Sunday night- starting our 2 new classes on Monday morning. Whew. We are taking Ethics...and a Finance class. WHEW. Me and MATH= no good. I took pre-algebra like 3 times IN HIGH SCHOOL....

Let's pray NOW!
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.
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Who talked me into getting my MASTERS?! Good heavens. When we are done with these 2 classes we will have 19 credit hours...let's see...we need 36 to graduate... if I use my calculator...only 17 more credit hours to go. (FYI- I really went to get my calculator....).

On a side note- my grandma gave me a shoulder pad shirt- with 3 buttons in the back...made of some silky material that immediatly bumped me into my 70's.
I went to the store to return it and spent SO MUCH TIME walking in circles...trying to find something that I would like....found a pair of capris...1 shirt.. that is ALL!!!!!! BOO to shopping!!!
What are 30 year olds supposed to wear? I am too old for shorty shorts... too young for shoulder pads.... to tall for some other things. I think sweat pants and a tank fir the bill PERFECT. Good thing I don't leave the house....EVER!

MANDISA and ANITA RENFROE

I went to GIRLS NIGHT OUT last night at my church. It was AWESOME!!!! So cool to be in the House of the Lord with MANY women- who are letting loose, loving the Lord and jamming to some MANDISA!
I L O V E Mandisa's CD- and if you have not bought it yet- get it! Her songs are SO uplifting and FUN!!! They are good songs for dreary/bad/sad/hard days.

She is AWESOME in concert. What a pure and lovely heart she has....

Anita Renfroe was also there- she is SO FUNNY!!!!!! To laugh with a sold out crowd- about things women deal with was awesome. If you EVER get the chance to see her- go!

My friend Evelyn and I volunteered as USHERS- which meant we got some SWEET little flash lights to guide ladies to their seat before the show- and once the show started- we were down in front on the side next to the stage Jamming with Mandisa!

Well, now we are to the weekend, but let me tell you what I have accomplished that was on my mind in the last post-
1) I got my car up to date with the emissions test so I am legal and not going to get a ticket! Praise God. I am NOT a rule breaker!
2) Started on my taxes, but have a big tax question about taking classes from SAU with my tuition discount. I don't know if that gets taxed or not. So, I am slightly depressed about our current tax situation.
3) It is friday night- just took my last test for organizational behavior which ends Sunday- and have only 1 more paper to write before we can move along and get to our 2 new classes on Monday.