I Feel the Love!

I just had to take a minute to thank all you wonderful people for your words of encouragement concerning my son Josh. It has been such a blessing to read your comments left on my post entitled, "Joshua's Journey," over and over. I have read many scriptures that have helped me focus on the next step. I know God, my loving heavenly Father cares about all this. I mustn't worry about Josh, but simply trust him to walk in the Father's ways. It also helped me to hear that many of you have children struggling with the college issue as well. I no longer feel alone or feel like I have failed Josh. I know the journey continues, but for now, I'm quite content in letting my son be himself.

On another note: Today was busy!

Started out right with prayer and Bible reading.

I stripped Shane's bed all the way down to the dust ruffle. Washed his mattress pad, dust ruffle, sheets, pillow cases, and the comforter. His bed in now back together and I love getting a waft of Downy when I walk in there.

Here is Shane reading on his clean bed!

I did loads of business phone calls and got many things accomplished that just don't show up at the end of the day. You know, the kind of things you can scratch off your to do list knowing you took care of them and can rest easy in that feeling.

My neighbor came over with gifts for us from Columbia, her home country. We had a nice visit.

Then of course, I did all the housewifery things such as cooking, cleaning kitchen, other laundry besides the bedding, scrubbed stove top. (Oven remains to be done)

Walked for 30 minutes.

Came home not feeling well from my walk, around 7:30. I was feeling kind of weak before I walked and worse afterwards. I tested my blood sugar, which was a little low for me considering I had already eaten supper. I ate an apple with a small glass of milk and started flipping through the TV channels. I came across "The Princess Diaries" which is such a cute movie. My hubby watched the entire movie with me while Shane built a mall on the computer. "Mall Tycoon" is the name of the game he played. Every once in awhile, he would come out of the office into the family room and announce his accomplishments in the game; such as: "I haven't even opened my new mall yet and I already have 132 customers!" or "I have lots of stores open. I am some business man!" Then later he said he forgot to outfit his mall with trash cans so it became one trashy mall! okay, now back to the movie! Agustin and I had both seen it before, but for some reason it grabbed our attention again tonight. I think we have been under some stress lately and our minds just needed an escape. Living in a household with 3 men, I hardly ever get to see "chick flicks" or "girlie movies" so this was a treat for me!

I prayed with and then read to Shane from our current chapter book. We read each night as he falls to sleep.

I ironed 2 of Shane's shirts, 1 of my blouses, 3 pairs of Agustin's dress pants, 2 of Agustin's dress shirts, and one pillowcase.

I have blogged and now am off to bed, as it is almost 2 a.m. here! YIKES! And I have a big day tomorrow.

Nighty Night!

The Book Quiz

You're Adventures of Huckleberry Finn!

by Mark Twain

With an affinity for floating down the river, you see things in black
and white. The world is strange and new to you and the more you learn about it, the less
it makes sense. You probably speak with an accent and others have a hard time
understanding you and an even harder time taking you seriously. Nevertheless, your
adventurous spirit is admirable. You really like straw hats.


Take the Book Quiz
at the Blue Pyramid.

I'd really love to hear from those of you who know me. Is this me?

Joshua's Journey

It's been a busy week and I was oh so weary this morning. Many business decisions have been pressing upon us. I slept late and felt like I had a monkey on my back all day. Then around 12:30, my handsome, sweet son came in our front door. Joy of all joys! What a pleasant surprise!

He was able to spend a couple of hours hangin' with his dad before dad had to head off to work. Shane got his weekly wrestle in and was just simply enjoying having his big brother around.

This evening, a heart to heart talk transpired, as I sat in my big comfy chair at the computer and Josh sat on the floor, leaning against the closet door. Shane sat on the twin bed in our office/guest room. Tears were shed and true feelings were brought to the surface. We went through this same thing last summer when he told us he didn't want to return to college. My world came crashing down around me. I thought I was a failure. Boy did I have it all wrong! I came to realize again tonight that I have been wrong about a certain train of thought I had been prescribing to. I was harming my son more than helping him! I had jumped on a band wagon with so many others, trying to convince Josh to do something he does not want to do. That realization broke this mama's heart in a way I can't put into words. As Josh shared his burden, the thought came to me: "How would I like it if so many people were telling me how to live my life?" A very emotional Josh even asked me why people couldn't just encourage him in what he has chosen to do.

I also remembered that back in Josh's high school days, we discussed him doing apprenticeships rather than college. Out of respect to his parents, he endured one year of college, dorm life and all. Josh began working with his uncle at around the age of 14. He worked regular hours during his summer breaks. During school year, he worked 1 to 2 days aweek and some Saturdays. His uncle called him his "Pin Monkey". Due to his young age, Josh couldn't do certain tasks or use certain tools and machinery in the construction business. Josh was able to observe, help, organize the trailer, sweep up the job sites, run for tools the other employees needed. During his year of college, he worked as the church/school janitor each evening and on weekends. Even on Sundays, he was pretty much on call for all plugged toilets, spilled KoolAid, people's up-chucks! Last summer, when college was over, Josh went back to work with his uncle John full time and loves it. John tells everyone what a good worker Josh is and how good he is getting at certain things. I reminded Josh tonight how that apprenticeship helped him get a good paying full time job and he has learned more than if he had enrolled in the VoTech school in Tampa and paid them to teach him. Instead, he received pay for learning!

Shane was so attentive and concerned during the talk. At one point, I was tempted to ask him to leave the room, but I could sense his concern and I also perceived that he was learning about real life issues.

After the long conversation, Josh suggested ordering pizza and he was buying. He called his friend Matt to tell him he couldn't meet up with him tonight as they had talked about at church Thursday. I was thrilled to have the extra time with him at home of course.

Josh left around 8:30 tonight with some encouragement I hope, from his mom and little brother. It turned out to be such a sweet time together, even though we shared broken hearts through out the long conversation. I hated saying goodnight to him as he drove out of the driveway. He knew Shane and I were getting ready for our evening walk. His last words to me were: "If you and Shane go out walking, be sure not to lock yourselves out of the house." A typical statement from a first born, don't you think? That's my caring Josh for you!

Please say a prayer for him when you think of him. He is a fine young man who is growing in his walk in the Lord and in his walk in life. No, he isn't perfect, but he is a good man. He is happy with the path he has chosen for himself right now. It is not an ungodly path by any means, but he isn't fitting into "the box" so many would like to put him in. It is disheartening to him to walk into church and be constantly peppered by inquiries as to why he doesn't get back in school, or telling him he NEEDS to get back into school. Those people don't know his needs! Would it be too hard to simply encourage him in what he has chosen? Doesn't God tell us in His Word to do that? I mean, it might be different if Josh were living a sinful lifestyle or something, but he isn't. He daily works a hard construction job in this Florida heat. Josh is a man now, not a boy of 10. He can make his own decisions. He does have several friends who understand him and have been there for him at his lowest points. One of those friends he mentioned tonight is his cousin Joshua Vernoy, Jungle Mom's son.

I'd like to say more here about Joshua's journey, but I would need to speak to him first for permission. Thank you all for listening to this mom's heavy heart.

I would love to hear your comments about this type of situation. Are there any other homeschool mom's out there who have had their child, son in particular, choose not to go to college? I feel so alone in this journey!

That Time Again!

It's Friday's Show and Tell, thanks to Kelli. Hop on over to her place to sign up for the sharing!

Welcome to Show and Tell Friday!" Do you have a something special to share with us? It could be a trinket from grade school, a piece of jewelry, an antique find. Your show and tell can be old or new. Use your imagination and dig through those old boxes in your closet if you have to! Feel free to share pictures and if there's a story behind your special something, that's even better!

This week, I wanted to share with you all a painting I have of "Mexican Women at the Market". I love the vibrant colors and the reality of it. I have seen similar scenes on countless occassions while living or visiting in Mexico. I think my favorite thing about this painting is that the lady in the forefront is carrying her baby on her back. She or someone has handed the baby a flower to entertain him. My mother in law owns several of these style aprons, many of which seem to be made in the same checkered fabric as painted here. This hangs above our table in the breakfast nook. I took the photo of it from a side angle so the light from the flash wouldn't be distracting!

HAVE A WONDERFULLY BLESSED WEEKEND!

MEXICAN WEDDING COOKIES

I found this recipe over at
Mizze's

1 cup confectioners’ sugar, plus additional for rolling

1 cup butter, softened

2 teaspoons vanilla extract

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/4 teaspoon salt

1 cup ground almonds (or any other nuts you choose—some candidates for President come to mind)

1/2 cup chopped dried cranberries

2 cups all-purpose flour

Preheat oven to 350°. Cream together sugar and butter. Add remaining ingredients and mix until well blended. Form dough into 1-inch balls and place on ungreased cookie sheets. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until set and just barely light brown. Roll in additional confectioners’ sugar while still warm and place on wire racks to cool. Store in airtight container.
-o.o-

SHE HAS ARRIVED!!

Abigail Faith McCobb made her entrance into the world around 5:22 p.m.Monday evening. We are all so happy and full of joy! For more info, please check my blog, Jungle Mom's blog, or Yekwana Man's blog.

Now I present to you Miss Abbie!

Proud Mommy Jackie

Big Sis Elena!

HELLOOOOO!!! I'm still alive!!!

Can you all believe that I haven't been on line ALL weekend? I can't believe it myself! LOL That is so out of character for this Midnight Muser!! Hubby was off for 3 days in a row, so that explains alot right there, doesn't it?

I've really enjoyed reading every one's comments from the weekend and GROOVY's comments had me smiling from ear to ear as usual!

My niece Jackie is in the process of bringing Abigail into this world of ours. We (the family) are staying close to our phones and web cams today, hoping to see the littlest angel of our family very soon. Please pray for Jackie and Brian and the birth. Did you all know that it is a home birth? Unassisted? God love 'em!!! They have friends there who have home birthed 9 children who live near by and are only a phone call away. I understand they have a hospital near by as well, if it were to become necessary to use it. Jackie would hate that though! She believes hospitals are for sick people and being pregnant is not being sick! LOL Have you all read some of her recent posts as to why she is home birthing? She is quite a little dynamo and trail blazer!! I love her to pieces!

My friend Patti, is amazing! She had her double mastectomy on a Tuesday and was in church that Sunday playing the piano as usual! She hasn't missed a single service since then. Her attitude is so inspiring. I just love talking to her! What a testimony to God's answering of prayer that girl is! Here is an email she sent me last week. I asked if she would mind me posting it here. Her reply follows in the emails below.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Dear Pam,

Thank you so much for the cards of encouragement!

I love the funny one! Very appropriate to my pre-operative condition! It really made me laugh!

I appreciate the prayers and uplifting words reminding me of God’s grace and provision. I can quite honestly say I have never felt so loved! My church family and friends have poured their love out to me and made me feel so loved. I am so blessed with wonderful friends! And, you are one of my biggest blessings, dear friend!

I think back over the years, how the Lord has brought us together as friends. I remember the first day I met you in Sunday school class when you brought Josh in as a 3 month old! You were there at our wedding, remember? I’ve got pictures to prove it! Wow, that was a long time ago, wasn’t it?

Thank you again for your prayers. I just want the Lord to be glorified in this “valley” He has allowed me to go through; that is my desire.

Keeping a song in my heart,

Love you,
Patti

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
This was my reply to her email:
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Dear Patti,

I'm in big ol' puddles!

YES! I remember being at your wedding! I would love to see those pictures!

AWW you remember seeing Josh? I can't remember bringing him into SS class though! How funny!

Would you mind if I posted your email on my blog? Everyone keeps asking about you!

Love Ya'
Pam
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Patti's final reply:
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
No, I wouldn’t mind at all. I am so thankful to know that your online friends have been praying, and would still appreciate their prayers.

I feel so much better today. The port is not hurting as much, and I’m so thankful for that.

Love you!!

Patti
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
I'm off now to read every one's blogs!

EDT at 5:51_ Abby was born at 5:05 and as Rita was telling me this, Brian was cutting the cord!! I cried of course! Happy and emotional tears, no sadness here except to think how my sis wanted to be with her baby girl during this time! We are praising the Lord for his goodness. Jackie said Abby looked perfect and all seemed well! I'm just dying to hear more and especially to see photos!!!

Found in Hope Chest!

Yay! It's time for Friday's Show and Tell again! I wonder what kind of treasures await me today. If you would like to take part in Kelli's weekly Show and Tell, then click here and sign up on
MR. BLINKY!




Today, I wanted to show you this cute little tee shirt I came across recently while going through my hope chest. My friend, Connie Padgett, used her computer to make this "iron on" statement. She presented it along with several other pieces of clothing for Baby Shane back in 1997! Here is Shane today holding his tiny little shirt. He thought it was adorable when I showed it to him the other day. You should have heard him cooing and awing over it. It made tears well up in my eyes!

I can't believe he once fit in this!!!

Who Knew??

Elizabeth over at A Biblical Home and Lyndy at Oh Fiddle Dee Dee then Luvvom at Sarah's Journal have each honored me with the Reflective Blogger award. I feel so honored that I was one of their choices. What an encouragement! My first response when I saw that I had been mentioned by each of these blogging friends was : "WHO?? ME REFLECTIVE??" Then as I looked back over my posts, I can see where I may reflect quite often on my life and family and my God. So thanks girls for putting a new purpose into my blogging!

The purpose of the award is as follows:



"The reason for the title is because this award should make you reflect on five bloggers who have been an encouragement, a source of love, impacted you in some way, and have been a Godly example to you."
Elizabeth said:
"Pam at Midnight Musings. I love reading about the various adventures of this godly woman. Read this post to learn about her." (I count this quite an awesome compliment Elizabeth!)



Next, Lyndy said this about me:
"Pam at Midnight Musings is from sunny Florida and I am so proud to call her my friend. She is a wife and a mom and the only girl in a house of men. She inspires and encourages me. She, like my mom deals with a lot of pain but she still manages to be an inspiration and unlike me, does not throw herself pity parties. She handles her lot in life with amazing grace and humor."
Lyndy also said this today:
"Pam at Midnight Musings is from sunny Florida. Wife to one husband and mom to two incredible young men. Pam never fails to inspire me and has such a wonderful positive attitude. I have never met Pam but she has such a humorous personality that I bet we would laugh like school girls, if we ever got together." (I think we would too, Miss Lyndy!)


Luvvom included this about me:
"Midnight Musings - I enjoy reading Pam's blog. She reminds me of my aunt in that she is very dramatic and exciting and funny. She always puts a smile on my face. She is very family oriented and loves God." (I'm so happy you can leave my blog with a smile. Your aunt must be one awesome lady!)

Girls, I'll never live up to those wonderful compliments. I am so humbled by each of you and don't see myself in those descriptions at all. I must give God all the glory if any of you see those virtues in me. AMEN!

So now I have the privilege of naming five bloggity friends whom I want to honor as reflective bloggers. Boy, this is going to be difficult for me, but I must try! Also, know that it goes without saying that I believe my sister's blog "The Jungle Hut" would be my first choice! Then of course, Jackie's, Clint's Pen of Jen's, Connie's, Susan's (penless), Mishel's and so many more of my daily reads. Here goes!


1. Kim at Home Sweet Home doesn't have the opportunity to blog as often as some of us, but when she does, she always has a reflective thought and biblical principle to add to whatever is going on in her life. She is a devoted wife to a Mr. Command Man and a loving mother to 3 very sweet and talented daughters. We attend church together and usually sit together. She has been a real encouragement to me this past year.

2. Ashley at Simplicity is one of the sweetest and bubbliest 17 year olds I know. She has a natural talent for writing and draws you right into her posts. I love reading her blog, since lately it is mostly about my son, Josh! *smiles and winks* Seriously though, this young lady can be quite reflective and articulate in sharing what God is doing in her life. She is Kim's middle daughter.

3. Jayde at Pink and Black Jungle Bunny is my almost 13 year old niece and what a natural little blogger she is! She is endearing and comical, but yet can be ever so reflective on the things going on around her and of God working in her life. She has a real passion for souls and writes beautiful poetry. She can also sing like an angel!

4. Pat at Moments In Time is a REAL LIFE friend of mine, as is Kim. Pat also attends the same church as I do. She is a wonderful mother who seems to know "everything"! I mean it you all! I can ask her anything and she has an answer or a resource concerning it. She is a very busy lady who has homeschooled all 5 of her children while helping her husband run a successful business. She has been a wonderful mentor to me over this past year. She doesn't blog quite as often as I'd like for her too, but when she does, she has wonderful nuggets to cause you to reflect on God and his workings.

5. Kristi at Thimble Thoughts is so much fun! She is very busy in her church which has some really neat ministries and outreach programs. She also homeschools and has a blast with her kids. Her love for her hubby Bruce shines through her posts. She can cover amazing truths from God and His Word with humor.

LEARNING PERSONALITY STYLES

I just read a great article which gives you a brief overview of recognizing your children's different personalities and learning styles in a fresh new way.
It was posted on Sunday, July 1, 2007 by Just Call Me Jamin! She is one of my favorite homeschool mom bloggers. Click here to read the entire article and see her photos!

(FOLLOWING ARTICLE POSTED BY: Just Call Me Jamin!)

This weekend I was blessed to hear a really awesome speaker on the topic of Learning/Personality Styles. Although I have read a bit on this topic before this info was presented in a new way I had not yet come across. Here is a little of what I learned....

There are 4 basic personality styles. Here is a brief overview of each style.
2 are outgoing:

1. My Way...This is the dominate group. These folks want to know what we are doing? They want change... They are direct, demanding, decisive, determined, doers, independent & competitive. (This group needs to work on knowing others can be right.)

2 The Fun Way!..This is the inspirational group. These folks want to know who's doing it. They need no details. They are friendly, compassionate, carefree, talkative, outgoing, personable, and enthusiastic. (This group needs to work on listening!) (Huh, I wonder what group I am in! LOL)

2 are reserved:

3. The Easy Way...This is the steady group. These folks want to know if it really has to be done! They want no change. They are calm, dependable, easy going, trustworthy, efficient, practical, and steadfast. (This group needs to work on saying no.)

4. The Right Way...This is the cautious group. These folks want to know how it is gong to be done. They want all the details. They are analytical, sensitive, perfectionists, idealistic, loyal, orderly & ask a lot of questions. (This group needs to work on knowing others can be right too.)

Now the interesting thing about this lecture was that the speaker had us all get up and sit together in a group with the style we felt we best fit in. It was soooo interesting to see people immediately know which group they belonged in! Of course we folks in the fun group had the most FUN!

The point is it can be very helpful to know our personality style as well as our kids. One thing that occurred to me is that as fun as I can be...I actually can get on my kids nerves sometimes! Don't get me wrong for the most part they love their kooky Mom. However, there are times, especially with my 2 boys (Who have some "My Way" tendencies with strong "Fun Way" overtones.) that they just wish Mom would get to the point and stop singing and acting crazy! LOL I think it will be very helpful for me to think about their personality styles more and then I can focus a little more on the 7 intelligences to customize their learning to them.

What are the 7 Intelligences you ask?

1. Verbal Linguistic - How we communicate with others.

2. Logical Mathematical - math and logic skills

3. Visual Spatial - How we see things. (Can your child tell when it is safe to cross the street or will they stop if there is a car 5 blocks away?)

4. Body Kinisetic - Movers and shakers! Those who learn by moving!!!

5. Music/Rhythmic - The musically inclined.

6. Interpersonal - How we relate to someone else.

7. Intrapersonal - How we feel about ourselves. (This is the one we have some control over as parents. So praise, praise , praise!)

As I look at these 7 things I can immediately see strengths and weaknesses for each of my children. Knowing what the learning styles are allows me to try and teach to my children’s natural intelligences.

On top of all this there are 4 basic senses used in learning...

1. Visual

2. Auditory

3. Kinesetic (Big motions!)

4. Tactile (Fine motor skills.)

Traditional classrooms teaching styles favor auditory. (I will tell it to you and you will learn it.) However the beauty of homeschooling is we can teach to ALL styles! Not only that, since we generally have a small number of students we can customize our teaching style to fit our children’s learning style!

This was exciting to hear! It gave me a lot to think about! One thing it reminded me of is that there is NOT a right and a wrong way to learn. There is also not a right and wrong way to teach! The key is to find the right teaching style for the right learning style. We need to allow our students to learn the way they need to! Our job as teachers are to figure out the way they learn and then customize our teaching to their style. WOW!

BTW, this lecture was given by Dan Sinclair, President of Math-U-See California and Regional Representative of Math-U-See and JoyceHerzog.com, Inc.
Here are the resources for further reading Mr. Sinclair recommended:
Learning In Spite of Labels, Choosing and Using Curriculum, Timeless Teaching Tips & Luke's Lists - Joyce Herzog
Get Ready - Robert Rohm PhD
Why Gender Matters - Dr. Leonard Sax
These are all going on my reading wish list!

Just Call Me Jamin!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
A personal note from Pam:

I'm a Right Way, Interpersonal, Visual learner!!!

Friday's Show and Tell

Kelli over at" There is No Place Like Home", is the host of Friday Show and Tell. She explains it this way:"Welcome to Show and Tell Friday! Do you have a something special to share with us? It could be a trinket from grade school, a piece of jewelry, an antique find. Your show and tell can be old or new. Use your imagination and dig through those old boxes in your closet if you have to! Feel free to share pictures and if there's a story behind your special something, that's even better!"

Click on the link below to join the list!

http://kellishouse.blogspot.com/

Shane striking a pose!

Here are my two precious sons! I am missing these two guys so much while they are away with friends on vacation!

Today for my Show and Tell, I thought I would show you some things you may find around your home if you have a nine year old little boy!

A "LINE" of thread taped to the TV stand and to the arm of an easy chair! All so the Star Wars figures can get where they need to go!
You may find "good" fighting "evil" in your foyer!

Or you may just need to ....

Beware of Storm Troopers!!

Shane was in Mexico last week and in Orlando all this week. I have missed walking through the house and finding his men and traps everywhere! Josh used to do the same thing at this age.

A Poem

I found the following poem on one of those little business size cards you find in the Hallmark stores to insert into a regular card. I was buying a card for my 20 year old son, Josh. When I read these words, I purchased the little card to send him as well.

***************************************************************************

A POEM TO HELP MY SON BE STRONG ALONG THE PATH OF LIFE

You've got a big heart.

Keep it filled with happiness.

You've got a fascinating mind.

Keep finding new ways to grow.

Keep yearning. Keep learning.

Keep trying. Keep smiling.

And keep remembering that

a parent's love goes with you...

everywhere you go.

By: - Douglas Richards

Monday's Random Musings

First things first! I must give a shout out to my sister and her husband because today is their wedding anniversary! So---

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY JUNGLE MOM AND YEKWANA MAN!!!

Next, I must let you know that reality has set in for Agustin! About a half hour ago, I saw him off to his first day back at work after vacation! He was gone to Mexico until last Thursday, then had Friday, Saturday, and Sunday with me at home. As I mentioned in an earlier post, Shane has gone to Orlando with his brother and another family. It was supposed to be for Friday evening through today. Sunday we received a call from our friends, telling us that their daughter ran a fever Saturday. A trip to the Dr. on Sunday revealed an inner ear infection. The day to be spent at 2 of the parks has been put off until later in the week, hoping Alex can ride the rides without balance problems or PAIN! They wanted to know if we would mind Shane staying with them until Wednesday or Thursday, at which time they think their daughter' s anti-biotic will have taken effect. Josh already called his Uncle John, whom he works, for to see if the construction crew could do without him a couple of extra days. He was delighted to be told "Sure! No problem!" I'm glad the boys are with a kind, very generous and Christian family, but oh how I miss them!


Agustin and I ate out each day, since it has just been he and I. Friday evening,we hit the steakhouse, (you all saw that delicious food in my prior post!), Saturday was Mexican food at Las Vallarta's! ( Even though hubby had just had a week's worth of authentic Mexican food, he really wanted Vallarta's), then Sunday after church, we ate at Red Lobster. Wanna know the best part about that? It was FREE!!! It is the neighboring restaurant to the Olive Garden where my sweet hubby works. He knows the manager of that Red Lobster and the manager knows my hubby. They "take care" of each other when one visits the other's restaurant! So all we had to pay was the tip! We always leave an extra generous tip for the server when our meal is free, so I think we were all winners yesterday!


Yesterday, both of our church services were awesome! The A.M. service was patriotic. Before the sermon, a video presentation done by Heartland Baptist Bible College was shown. It honored the military and was a real tear jerker, with the theme song being "It Has Always Been the Soldier"! Then Pastor preached a sermon entitled: "Freedom Isn't Free".

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Today I:

*Walked 4 blocks. (I know that doesn't sound like much, but in this hot, hubby Florida heat, it's about all I can do right now!)

*Read my Bible

*Ate breakfast

*Called to make appointment with a general surgeon, due to results of mammogram and ultra sound both showing a nodule

*Called To have copy of mammogram and sonogram sent to general surgeon's office

*Called my primary care physician to request they fax a copy of my blood work results to my surgeon's office

*Wrote in and sent out 2 Get Well Cards

*Wrote in and prepared for mail a note of encouragement to my son Josh

*Paid 2 bills (one on line and mailed the other)

*Cooked a late, hot lunch for hubby and I before seeing him off to work

*Ironed 4 Chef's coats and 2 dress shirts

*Read lots of emails ( I haven't signed on to the Internet in awhile)

* Blogged!!! Posted this and read many

I still have lots to do, so I must sign off for now! I trust your week is filled with good things and that you recognize each and every blessing which comes your way from our Father God.

******************************************************************************
Edited @ 11:10 p.m.
I am ROLLING ON THE FLOOR LAUGHING!!! Did anyone else catch my huge error on the first item of my list? In place of " hot muggy" I typed "hot hubby"!!! I can't believe you all were so kind as not to mention it in your comments! It sure gave me a big ol' laugh just now!

GUESS WHO I AM MISSING!!!

I'm A Happy Woman!

Hi All! It's been so great having hubby and Shane back home, even though Shane left again today! He and his brother were invited by the Leonard family to join them on their vacation at their condo in Orlando! Last night, Shane said he definitely wasn't ready for ANOTHER vacation! It was so funny the way he said it. He was sunburned and very tired. This morning, he heard me on the phone asking Ashley to be sure and let her mom know he wouldn't be going with them. Shane walks out into the den and asks, "Now which parks are they planning on going to?" I tell him "Universal Studios" and "Islands of Adventure". He smiles and says, "Well I had a great night's rest and I think I want to go now!" So naturally I told Ashley I would have to call them back once I had a chat with Shane. His sunburn looked less swollen and he was eager to go, so off he went with Josh around lunch time today! I miss him! He was only home for about 12 hours and was sleeping most of that time! Well at least I have Agustin with me!

He took me HERE for supper! (see photo below)

And I ate this! (see next photo)
Well of course I had a garden salad first!
Some of the best sweet cornbread you ever bit into! Oh with honey butter!

And we did this! (see below)

I feel so naughty when I brush the peanut shells off the table onto the floor! Agustin refuses to do it. I always laugh when the server comes to our table and scrapes Agustin's pile onto the floor. He almost chokes on his food every time! Tonight, as she swept the shells off to the floor, she said,"Go ahead, honey. Do it like this, It's okay!"

After stuffing ourselves, we went to a new furniture store that just recently opened in our area. We drooled and planned and giggled. It was so much fun.

Next, off to CVS to put the photos of the trip to Mexico onto a CD. (NOTE: If I had received what I asked for back in May for Mother's Day, I would no longer have to go to the store to get my digital card read!) We were there for an hour! YES! Too much to explain here. Suffice it to say that due to technical difficulties, I must return to CVS tomorrow to pick up my 2nd CD and some photos I had printed up.

Last on our stop was JCPenney's! I had been there earlier this week while alone and whiling the time away. A beautiful comforter for our bed was marked down almost half off and it included the shams and bed skirt as well. The accessory pillows and valances were half off too! The colors were just what I wanted! So I ran that by Agustin tonight. The price was just too good not to tell him. Once inside Penney's, he agrees we should go ahead and purchase the comforter set while the cost is so much lower than usual. Agustin would pick it up and I would say, "HMM I don't know. Maybe we should wait." Twice he picked up that big bundle and put it back on the bottom shelf. Then I remembered I had seen another comforter with similar colors but the package price included 3 accessory pillows and 2 Euro shams, a set of sheets, the bed skirt, and of course, the comforter. All that was marked down from $350.00 to $174.99!! Needless to say we grabbed it up! I had perfect peace that this was the way to go. I can't wait to get the sheets washed and the bed skirt steamed tomorrow and see how gorgeous my bed looks! I will take PHOTOS!

I'm so thankful the Lord checked me before I made a more expensive purchase! I am just as happy with my 2nd choice.

Okay, now for a few photos from Mexico. I will post more about the trip on Monday.

Agustin's parents with the graduate, Berenice, their BABY!!!

Shane at the dinner table with his "abuelitos" (granparents)

I call them "THE MEXICAN MAFIA"!! LOL I think they have forgotten how to smile! Don't they look scary? Well, except for Shane!

Bere with Eric and his girlfriend. Eric has already graduated law school and is practicing law in Queretaro. Unfortunately, this photo was snapped right when he blinked!

Agustin (in red tie on end) with all his living siblings, minus one. His sister Ruth, is a missionary in Argentina and wasn't able to make the big shin-dig. Two siblings have gone on to heaven.

Elias, Mario, Berenice, Imelda, Agustin

Whoo -Hoo!

About 30 minutes ago, I got off the phone with my dear hubby! He was already boarded on the plane in Houston, awaiting take off. He sounded tired! The flight was running a little behind schedule and he just wanted to let me know. If you read this before 9 p.m.,please say a prayer for his and Shane's safe arrival to Tampa.

I spoke with them both on the phone last night just to make sure everything was still "a go" for today. They both had such contentment and excitement in their voices. I know it was a week that will be forever etched in their minds.

Shane was so excited that he was able to tour the Convent of the Cruz again where Maximilan had his headquarters until being taken prisoner and then held in that same convent until his execution.


I can't wait to see the photos they have taken throughout the week in Mexico. And you all know me! I'll be sharing them here with you!

I'm off to shower before heading into Tampa.

This Was A Tricky One!

You Passed the US Citizenship Test

Congratulations - you got 10 out of 10 correct!

Could You Pass the US Citizenship Test?

Have A Wonderful Independence Day!

PAM is patriotic!!
Greetings on this important day! I hope we all have good food and lots of fun, but most importantly, I hope we reflect on why we are celebrating today! Let's remember:

Freedom isn't free!

We must remain vigilant and maintain our freedom!



Below is an article written by Doctor Bill Frist, a former US Senator from Tennessee. I trust you'll be inspired by it and reminded of what a great country we live in!

God bless you and GOD BLESS AMERICA!


(Following posted by Dr. Bill Frist)



America is not just good. It’s great. I saw it just weeks ago when I was in Russia, where the rule of law is in question, where there is no true freedom of the press, where men don’t live to the age of 59 years old.



I saw it In Darfur in February when Karyn and I witnessed the absence of hope because of an unjust government who committed atrocities upon its people. And I saw it in southwest Kenya, where I operated on a child with a disease in his chest that we had eradicated long ago in this country.



I know polls show that Americans are down on our government now. But they are not down on our country and its greatness! The Fourth of July highlights our national pride unlike any other holiday. With traditions like family barbeques and fireworks, we celebrate our nation’s birthday and the optimism that drives our country to great heights. We also honor the beliefs that have made our nation special . . . beliefs like the importance of freedom and equality and respect for inalienable rights.



These same principles have made America the land of opportunity and a shining example for others throughout the world. As the brave men and women of our military fight for the preservation of those values that are at risk much more than any of us would like to believe, it’s important that we face the difficult challenges confronting our nation’s trademark optimism . . . an optimism that has helped make our country great.



As President Reagan said, “There are no great limits to growth because there are no limits of human intelligence, imagination, and wonder.” America’s best days truly lie ahead.


posted by: Bill Frist, M.D.

THE REST OF THE STORY!

The British gentleman who took Rita's name and quotes in the airport was a journalist/reporter from one of London's liberal newspapers! How many of you thought it was a government agent at first? THAT IS WHAT I THOUGHT! So glad it wasn't. I haven't spoken to her today since they don't have their phone or Internet yet. I will keep you posted. Oh and please pray for Clint. He flew to Chattanooga this morning to pick up the van they purchased from a friend. He started driving home today and should finish the trip on in here by tomorrow.

Hey - Jungle Mom posted Monday morning while at the library! Go check out the detailed account of her trip at www.jungle-hut.blogspot.com

Agustin and Shane are doing well in Mexico. They had a wonderful time at his sister's graduation celebration Saturday night. To my disbelief---they left the party before the Mariachis arrived! It was pouring "gatos y perros" all evening and even a hail storm took place. They got wet just getting into the party. They left the party at 2:30 Sunday morning to get a few hours sleep before church time. The food was delicious I'm told and all were so very tired and ready to go home!

I was pleased that everyone loved the gifts Agustin, Shane, and I picked out for them!

It was wonderful hearing Agustin speaking about opportunities to visit with his cousins, aunts, and uncles, even some of his former Sunday School teachers! Yes, Rita! He was able to present Shane to Hermana Louisa Webb and to Pastor Jimmy Lee!! *smiles and winks* They asked about you guys and were wondering how you were handling all the troubles in Venezuela right now. Agustin caught them all up to speed. He said they actually had some very nice conversations! He saw Luisa and Brother Lee Sunday evening at a new church that has recently been started in Queretaro.

Oh before Shane left, he wrote a little story and posted it. Would some of you mind going to his blog and leaving him a comment or two? I know he would just love seeing them and reading them when he gets home! Thanks! His address is http://www.battleking-shane.blogspot.com/


I had a busy day today so I am off to bed! Sleep peacefully!

A 3 A.M. VISIT AND A MYSTERY!!!

I wanted to let everyone know how much your prayers are appreciated by our family. We know our loving Father heard them and has blessed us all by the arrival of my sister and her family safely to the good ol' USA!!!

THE 3 A.M. VISIT
Wanna' hear something funny? I think I failed to mention in last night's post that Clint's suitcase with his suit, ties, dress shirts and dress shoes was lost. However, when I left their home last night, Clint had received a call from American Airlines telling him it had been found and dispatched to his address. Well, that isn't the funny part. Here is the funny part! Last June when Clint and family arrived in the USA for a visit of a couple of months, they also flew on American Airlines. Guess whose 2 suitcases were lost on that trip and still haven't been found? You guessed it, Clint's! He must be jinxed or something! Maybe American Airlines just doesn't like him! He did receive a check to reimburse him some months later for that loss. We are wondering if someone in Singapore or Africa may have his clothing! LOL

During their visit last summer, Jungle Mom was in Wal-Mart aplenty. So it has really just been a year of withdrawal, but that doesn't make it any easier on "re-entry". Speaking from experience, it is very overwhelming with all the choices and variety one has here in America, after returning from living in a foreign country.

I just spoke with my nephew on his cell phone. I was happy to hear that Clint's suitcase was delivered to him intact, but not until 3:00 a.m. this morning!!! I didn't get to speak to my sis as Josh V. had already left for church. I'll be so happy when The Jungle Hut crew gets their landline established!

Many of you have mentioned you can't wait to read Jungle Mom's blog postings when she gets settled in enough to do so. I'm right there with ya'! One of us will be sure to post photos!


THE MYSTERY
Yesterday, during our hours of wallerin, (wallowing, with my mom's country, West Virginian accent mixed into it), Rita told me many interesting things! One neat story happened in the airport in Venezuela. A gentleman mentioned how he had noticed how well the Venezuelans enjoyed American things and culture, (movies, McDonald's etc.) and he didn't think the government in place now would last long. Jungle Mom asked him how long he had been in Venezuela. "Eight days" was his answer. She proceeded to tell him she had been there twenty years and he had not seen the other side of Venezuela. She started telling him a few of her nuggets that have kept us all tuned in to her blog. The gentleman pulled out a small notebook and pen and started jotting things down that JM was saying. He then asked her name!!!! As Rita (JM) told me this, my heart jumped into my throat! Did my sister leave there just in the nick of time?? Who was this British man writing down her words??

Tune in tomorrow for --- "THE REST OF THE STORY!" *bwahahahaha-evil laugh*

Well, I need to go freshen up for our evening church service. God bless you all!