I recieved the following list today via email from our pediatrician's office. I think those of us who are mom's can relate to the majority of the items! ENJOY!

You Know You're a Mother When.....

You use your own saliva to clean your child's face.

You have time to shave only one leg at a time.

Your kid throws up and you catch it.

Someone else's kid throws up at a party. You keep eating.

You've mastered the art of placing large quantities of pancakes and eggs on a plate without anything touching.

Your child insists that you read "Once Upon a Potty" out loud in the lobby of Grand Central Station and you do it.

You cling to the high moral ground on toy weapons; your child chews his toast into the shape of a gun.

You always go to the bathroom with a "friend".

You hope ketchup is a vegetable, since it's the only one your child eats.

You can't bear the thought of your son's first girlfriend.

You hate the thought of his wife even more.

You find yourself cutting your husband's sandwiches into cute shapes.

You can't bear to give away baby clothes - it's so final.

You count the sprinkles on each kid's cupcake to make sure they're equal.

You stop criticizing the way your mother raised you.

You donate to charities in the hope that your child won't get that disease.

You hire a sitter because you haven't been out with your husband in ages, then spend half the night checking on the kids.

You hide in the bathroom to be alone.

You say at least once a day, "I'm not cut out for this job", but you know you wouldn't trade it for anything.

7 Random Things About Me!

I was tagged by Baptist Girl to list 7 random things about me. Let's see if I have any dignity left when this is finished! Okay, here goes!

1. I love the mountains. Maybe it stems from being born in Iaeger, West Virginia, in the midst of some beautiful mountains. I love the mountain music and sweet ramblings of a country creek. I ADORE the crisp evenings, even in early summer, and the chirping of the crickets at dusk. (Do crickets chirp?) Remember this John Denver song from the 70's: "Take me home, Country roads, To the place, I belong, West Virginia, Mountain Mama, Take me home, Country roads!"

2. I like to sit in my garden bathtub and let the shower run down over me!

3. I can't sleep at night until all closet doors are completely shut, the laundry room door is shut, and my hubby's bath towel is folded, hung and straightened to match mine.

4. I don't sleep like normal people! I know poor Jen has been wondering about my strange hours on the computer! *grins* I may go to bed at 11 p.m. but I'm up at 2 or 3 a.m. for a few hours. After awhile, oh maybe an hour or two, I'll return to bed and sleep a few more hours before starting my day. I do have better sleep patterns when I am not experiencing much pain or a flare up with Rheumatoid Arthritis, but you know the body gets set in a pattern and it's hard to break! When I go through a bad flare up with RA, it ruins all patterns of sleep. I was diagnosed with RA 17 years ago at the age of 29. Did I clear that sleep thing up for ya' Jen?

5. I LOVE AND ADORE children! I graduated early from high school in Traveler's Rest, South Carolina. I didn't go straight to college but we moved to Florida and I went to work with children right away in Immokalee, Florida. Another one of my first real jobs was working in Miss Martha's day care in Arcadia, Fl. I have always had children in my life. I started babysitting at 11 and earned enough money that summer to buy my own bike and school clothes! I've worked as cashier and then customer service manager in a department store chain, I've completed some courses toward a teaching degree, I've taken secretarial courses and have worked as church secretary in a couple of churches, I ran an "in home" day care for 5 years before becoming disabled, but mostly I have worked with children in Christian school settings.

6. I still don't have my teaching degree! But I have been considering returning to school to finish that up. I'm so very close to completing the requirements, so why don't I? Pray with me about that, would you please? I am still homeschooling Shane, and then there is my health and fatigue to consider. I haven't even told my hubby this yet! I better get on that right away! LOL

7. I feel things very deeply, which can be both good and bad! I hurt for others and want to fix the world. Prayer is my best weapon, I know, but there are times I am so desperate to right a wrong, that it hurts me physically. I get sick to my stomach when I hear or see a child being mistreated in the store or at church. YES, even at churches, I have witnessed little ones and teens alike being spoken to as if they are nothing more than a dumb animal or a burden.

Now I'm supposed to invite anyone who would like to do this to just let me know!

Well there you have it! God bless!

Kelli's Show and Tell Friday!!!

In the photo you will see some Mexican pottery that my grandpa Booker bought years ago! I was told he was always purchasing things from a catalogue company called "Old Time Mexican Pottery". My grandpa is in heaven, but when I look at these pieces in my home, I think of him fondly. I have them displayed in my kitchen, above my cabinets. My Aunt Tommie had these pieces in her possession until 7 years ago; that's when she relinquished them to me! She thought since I had married a true live Mexican, that I would be the perfect choice to give them to. *giggles*
Please click on the photo to enlarge it. I love the colorful patterns, don't you?

Did you notice the round piece with a lid has the word "MEXICO" painted on it? It also has a handle on the back, but you can barely notice it in this picture. I had taken these down to wash during my spring cleaning and thought, "Hey, I need a photo of these for Kelli's Show and Tell!

Happy Mother's Day ladies!

Make Your Own Detangler Spray!

Did you know you can make your own detangler spray? Jamin over at Just Call Me Jamin, says:

"I found out about this a year ago and we have been doing it ever since. All you do is put about an inch of your favorite conditioner in the bottom of a 9 ounce spray bottle. (I use an old detangler bottle we already had.) Then fill the rest up with warm water and shake. Viola! Hair detangler! This has worked great for us and is MUCH cheaper than buying it pre-made. I also like this because I really like to use organic shampoos, soaps and conditioners and organic detangler is hard to find and expensive if you do find it."

This super homeschooling mom has won some awards for her blog! When you visit her and see her creativity, you will understand why! I'm sure she wouldn't mind at all if you paid her a visit! She always has such wonderful ideas for homeschoolers. A couple of weeks ago she shared how her kids mummified barbies and GI Joes for their unit study on Egypt! Then a few days later, they made paper. She always includes photos of their projects. I'm sure you could find these fun posts easily.

Another great place to visit when you have the time is A Biblical Home. Her post for today was very hepful.

HORROR OF ALL HORRORS!

Saturday evening, I had no internet! I fooled around and tried all I knew to do. Finally, exasperated, I called the Verizon Fios hot line. I got a nice friendly tech named Larry in Texas!! We walked through all kinds of protocol. First thing Larry told me was that he could see that my back up battery on my FIOS box was depleted. It's freaky how they can know that all the way in Texas! My next thought was: "What else does he see?" It took a good 15 minutes of following his instructions on the phone. This included a trip to the garage to check if the Verizon box was plugged in. It was, but the battery light was lit. I reset the safety outlet. Things looked fine. I breathed a sigh of relief. Too early! The tech, on the other end of the line told me to get on line. I clicked my Internet Explorer icon and nada! When I told the tech it was a no-go, his voice told of his disappointment! It was decided he would send a real live tech to my home on Sunday. He thought I may need a new, updated router. What was a good time? I told him around 1:30 p.m. That would give us plenty of time to return from church. So it was set up! I went to bed soon afterwards with dreams of sugar plums and internet access in my head!

I awakened Sunday morning around 7 a.m. to take Agustin to work so I would have the car for church. I had a long day and had been on my feet quite a bit Saturday. I had come home from our Mother & Daughter Luncheon and taken care of some things around the house, so I was pretty swollen and over tired. (For those new to my blog, I have Rheumatoid Arthritis which has been causing me quite a bit of pain lately). I went hobbling out to the driveway with my husband. I was stiff but willing to try and drive. We noticed a steady stream of water coming from under the grass at our curb and out to the street. Then we heard our Culligan water system making a weird, loud noise! It sounded like water and air whooshing through the pump, but not into the house - rather into the street! PANIC! Agustin told me to get on the phone and take care of it, he had to get on to work! So I take my crippled self to the tanks and try to push the "bypass" button. It didn't budge. It's not a little, ol' bitty button, mind you. It's a big, fat, honking button! I ran in the garage and unplugged it. I noticed none of the lights were on for my Verizon Fios box on the garage wall, but yet it was plugged in. The light bulb went off in my head! I think I knew why I didn't have internet! Back outside I went, shucks, I still could hear the whooshing! Back inside, I went to the garage and hit the reset button for the outlet. Wa-la, all appropriate lights came on to show my wonderful FIOS was in operating condition. I was right! My light bulb moment earlier was spot on! The stupid water purification system was malfunctioning, causing my outlet to trip the safety thingy!! I just knew in my heart of hearts, I was about to have my internet back! Who cares about fresh tasting, purified water?? I was dying of internet withdrawal, not of thirst! I turned on my computer and while waiting for it to boot up, I dug into the file cabinet and found all the info about my Culligan system. I called the office, which was NOT opened at 7:30 a.m. on Sunday morning, but yes, there was an emergency message system. I left my message then came to get on line while I waited for a tech to call me back.

What sweet splendor! There it was, just like I remembered it! The internet, my blog! Joy, joy, joy! I was hurting and exhausted. It felt good to get off my feet now and sit in my leather executive chair! I started checking my emails and blog comments. OOPS! It then hit me, I had to call Verizon and cancel the order for a service tech to come out at 1:30 p.m. After the call to them, I had to find a neighbor who was awake and willing to come over and bang that big button in, so as to bypass the water on the Culligan system. After that, I debated what to do. I didn't have the car to get to church and it was getting late. I was also experiencing excruciating pain in my shoulders, left side of neck, wrists, and feet. I debated what to do. It's during these times that I realize I do have somewhat of a handicap with this chronic disease. I really wanted to get to church, but did not have the energy to shower and dress and think of who to call for a ride, and this I would have to do in a rush. It hurts me to have to tell this part of the story. I felt spent! I had pushed myself Saturday and now Sunday morning had been hectic. I started shutting down. It's as if my brain and entire body shuts off. Thankfully I had taken my medications, vitamins and herbs earlier. They would kick in soon. All I could do was crawl into my bed. I fell asleep for several hours and awoke with much less pain.

It hurts me and embarrasses me sometimes that I tire so easily. I fear I give the impression as though it doesn't take much to stop me. It hasn't always been this way, believe me! I'm not a lazy person at all. I have learned over the past 17 years with this chronic disease, what my body can or cannot do. My husband is constantly reminding me to pace myself, but in emergency's, that can't be done! I just have to turn it over to my Heavenly Father when I feel down about not being the old Pam. (Or should I say the YOUNG PAM?) I'm so happy HE is always there for me to turn to. I also have many wonderful friends who encourage me and support me in many ways.

Now, to close on a positive note! I must say that Larry, the Verizon tech, was so kind and patient with me on the phone Saturday night. Another great blessing was how quickly the nice man on emergency call for Culligan called me within 15 minutes of my leaving a message with the answering service. That was quite impressive on a Sunday morning!

God bless you my friends. I trust you will have a beautiful rest of the week.

I Just Love the Pomp and Circumstance!

I loved watching the Queen's visit to America. I still have some of that little girl, make believe, fairytale mentality in me I guess! Even though I enjoy watching all the pomp and formality, I'm very happy to be a simple gal who didn't have to live a life on display! (oops, wait a minute! What am I saying here! I did live my life on display! I was a PASTORS' KID!!!)

Make sure your speakers are turned on. The song is what makes this video so entertaining!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hdH7eSJYvSg

While watching the video was fun, I couldn't help but wonder if Queen Elizabeth II has ever had the privilege of hearing a clear account of the plan of salvation.

Wanna Do Something Fun?

If so, then head on over Jen's
and join in on her caption contest for today. I just came from there and absolutely LOVED the entries that have already been submitted. Go visit for a good laugh if nothing else!

INTERVIEW QUESTIONS

I have had two people so far agree to answer the interview questions that I came up with! Those two brave souls are MJ and Jen. This is open to anyone else who would like to play along. Just leave me a comment when you do it, so I will know to come and read your answers on your blog!

I agree with Susan! Thinking up some challenging questions is harder than answering them! LOL

Here goes:

1. If you could spend the day with a famous person, who is still alive today, who would it be and why?

2. How would you define the following phrase: "DYING TO SELF"?

3. Do you have a hobby or a favorite way to unwind? If so, tell us how you got started in it.

4. Name an adventure you would love to do or go on.

5. Name three things you do to encourage others.

6. Describe your church building, your pastor, and your pastor's wife.

Now you get to try to get some folks to agree to answer 5 or 6 questions which you make up!

Interviewed by Penless

Susan has submitted these questions for me to answer. I agreed to do it before seeing the questions! YIKES!

INTERVIEW QUESTIONS & MY ANSWERS


1) If you were going to lose EVERYTHING you owned and could only save ONE item what would it be? And why? (this can't be a person, it must be a thing) my Bible! It comforts and encourages me, and I would need a lot of that!

2) What was the worst mistake you ever made? Why or what caused you to make it? I once shop lifted some makeup from our local TG&Y when I was in high school. My sinful nature caused me to do it! At the time, even though I was a Pastor's daughter, I wasn't truly saved. I was trying to live the Christian life on my own strength! However, I was also hanging out with some bad influences who taunted me into it! We were relatively new in town and I was trying to fit in. It was the first time I had to attend a large public school since 5th grade. I was weak!

3) What one person has had the most influence in helping you become who "YOU" are today? Why or how? (this has to be someone you've personally known during your lifetime)
My husband! He has loved me when I've been very un-lovable. This has helped my confidence. He has helped me see that I don't have to "act" or "be" perfect all the time. I was also a very impulsive person who acted first then thought after the fact! He has helped me get and keep my priorities in order. Most importantly, he has been a loving example of strength. I've seen him climb some huge hurdles in life, but he never gave up! Of course, God gets all the glory here!

4) If you had a 2 week all-expense-paid vacation to anywhere you wanted to go, where would you go? Why or what would you do? Can I split it up? I would love to tour Europe, see the castles, shop and eat in Italy for a few days! Then I would love to take my hubby to see his sister in Argentina, where she, her husband, and 3 boys are missionaries. We would love to actually see them interacting with their ministries. Then we could pop over to Paraguay to visit my niece and her little family, then up to Mexico to see my husband's parents. His dad has Parkinson's and is getting worse. I would add Venezuela, to visit my sister and her family and see their ministries in person, however, they are leaving there soon and I get to see them here in Florida in June!!

5) What is THE one most important quality or trait that you look for in a friend? Why? Positive Godliness! So we can have sweet fellowship and hopefully make this world a better place!

6) What one trait do you find the most annoying in a person? Would you still be friends with that person? A critical spirit! I could be friendly but not best friends. I would want to be around them just enough to let them see a positive spirit in me, with God's help.

Thanks Susan, that was fun and a little challenging. My answer to number 2 was the hardest, but I had to be honest!

Okay, you all know the drill. Any volunteers to answer 5 or 6 questions which I will make up and post here? If you would like to answer my interview questions, please leave me a comment on this post stating so. Thanks! Be brave!

Update on Jungle Mom

I put a little information about my sister on her blog. YES, she actually trusted me with her top secret password!!! I behaved myself while on there though, being that it's a serious time right now. Just pop on over to Jungle Mom Thanks for your prayers and concern.

Pictures From Mexico & Cinco de Mayo

Josh around 3 years of age in one of the gift shops near the Aztec Pyramids.

Josh, Shane, and I in a hat shop (obviously!) in Queretaro, Mexico.

Bellas Artes building - downtown Mexico City

Bull fighting ring

Country Club

Department Store, Pelanco

A taxi or two!

Being married to a Mexican, we had to make an attempt at celebrating Cinco de Mayo! He had to work, but some of his employees are Mexicans and great cooks! They made some of their favorite dishes and brought them into work Saturday to share with all the other employees. Hubby brought home some of the best food yesterday evening! Refried beans, home made salsa, Mexican rice, chilis with nopales (cactus). YUMMO!

Many confuse Cinco de Mayo as being Mexico's Independence Day. It seems that Cinco is celebrated more in the United States than in Mexico, as a way to celebrate Mexican heritage and pride. It commemorates an initial victory of Mexican forces led by General Ignacio Zaragoza Seguín over French forces in the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862. Mexico's real Independence Day is September 16. Cinco de Mayo is mostly celebrated in the region of Puebla, as that is where a five year battle occurred. Maximillian and the French were eventually defeated and expelled in 1867, five years after the Battle of Puebla.

I didn't cook anything for Cinco because it was also our church's Mother & Daughter Luncheon! I will share photos and details about that soon. It was a wonderful day and I admire the ladies and girls who put so much work into it. Not long after returning home from the luncheon, my friend Pat called to tell me they were making chicken enchiladas for supper in honor of Cinco de Mayo! Her family isn't even Mexican, but yet they put forth a bigger effort than we did in our household! Oh well! Maybe next year.

Update on Jungle Mom

Rita is doing great! My sister, her family, and I want to thank each of you for your prayers and well wishes. Rita came through surgery fine and will most likely be released for home tomorrow afternoon. She was scheduled to go into surgery at 10 a.m. but wasn't taken in until 1 p.m. Around 9 o'clock tonight, I received a phone call from Rita's daughter, Jewel, with the news Rita had just come out and all seems to have gone well! Just a bit ago, I called Jewel once again. Jewel said she and Rita had just had a conversation by phone. That was good to hear!

Once again, thanks for your prayers and concern. You all out did yourselves by showing so much care and support when we went through dad's heart attack and surgery. I've seen you all, in our blog circle, encourage and pray for so many others in their times of need. What a blessing you all have been to me. Now if you don't mind keeping Rita in your prayers this week, as the first few days of recovery from any surgery are the worst.

You Are Austin

A little bit country, a little bit rock and roll. You're totally weird and very proud of it. Artistic and freaky, you still seem to fit in... in your own strange way. Famous Austin residents: Lance Armstrong, Sandra Bullock, Andy Roddick

What American City Are You?

Christian Principles for Bloggers

I found this link on Biblical Home's blog and thought I would share it with you. I found it very helpful and full of truths.

http://www.sfpulpit.com/2007/04/25/the-blog-in-our-eyes-part-1/

Friday's Show and Tell!

I feel like I'm in kindergarten again! Kelli, http://kellishouse.blogspot.com/, hosts a Friday "Show and Tell" each week. This is my first time to participate. I really enjoy surfing the names left on the list, to see what neat and unusual things pop up for show and tell! Hope you find the time to take part. Enjoy!

Several weeks ago, Mrs. B over at http://www.cherishthehome.blogspot.com/, showed us a wonderful idea. Being a "Keeper At Home", she said she has to use her dish detergent so many times during the day. Rather than leaving the plastic bottle sitting out on her counter, she bought an olive oil cruet to put her soap in. This way it can sit out for easy access and not look "ugly"! I LOVED her idea and followed suit. These photos are of my "dish soap" dispenser which I too use all through out the day. I ordered mine from Southern Living at Home because the colors match my decorating scheme so well! It is hand painted by Gail Pittman and I just love seeing it through out the day. I love the swirly design and stripes so much!

Wednesday Was A Good Day

I know it's gonna be a good day when I can roll out of bed on my own and brush my teeth first thing. Yippee! I was able to do that this morning for the first time in weeks. I usually don't have the mobility to hold a toothbrush, much less SQUEEZE the toothpaste onto it when I first get up. It's the little things in life, you know!

There were other little blessings throughout my day.

I ran a few errands on my own! I haven't done that in awhile!

Received an email from a long lost friend from my high school days!

Shane and I had fun during official school hours, giggling and accomplishing much!

Witnessed a soul come to Christ during invitation at prayer meeting Wednesday night!

Spent about a half hour visiting with Pat and her lovely daughters in our church parking lot after service! Such cute stories of her grand daughter Maddy playing Dr.

Instant Messaged with my dad at 2:00 a.m. this morning! (You see where I get these hours from-I'm just like him! He can't sleep due to pain, I can't sleep due to pain!)

Since the subject of my dad came up, let me give you an update on his health.

It was three weeks ago Tuesday, that he had his triple by pass surgery. He was recovering with flying colors, when after about his third day at home, his left shoulder and arm started aching. At first, he thought it was his old arthritis, which he has suffered with for years, coming back. After it began getting worse and worse, causing him to not be able to rest or sleep, he and mom decided to see a Dr. about it. Now remember, he needs his rest to recuperate from triple by pass surgery! Well, you know the drill. To get into the regular Dr.s office was going to take a week. Then they would send him elsewhere for blood work, etc. So the decision was made to take dad to the emergency room at Tampa General. They performed blood work, x-rays, and then an MRI. It was determined that his pain was coming from a pinched nerve which also had fluid building around it. Dad was told this is common with the type surgery he had, due to how they had to position his arm during the surgery. Before dad's heart attack, he had spent a couple of months going to the chiropractor for therapy on that exact same nerve, so...

He was prescribed Prednisone and a stronger pain killer. He got relief after a couple of days. He can now get through the day without pain killers, but takes one at night to ensure a peaceful sleep so he can continue to heal well! Now think about this a moment. The man hadn't taken any pain killers since the very next day after surgery! So this arm must have put him in some pain!

Well, a few days ago, he was approached by a couple in his church who knew someone who lost a son. The family is unsaved and unchurched. They need the gospel for sure. However, my sister and I didn't think dad needed to be the officiant of this funeral. This said, my dad agreed to preach it. The funeral was to be today at 1 p.m. I was concerned. Just three weeks coming out of surgery and very weak still, with a low immune system, set off red flags for me! But dad is a preacher of the gospel and he loves souls! So to preach he was set to do! Thankfully, the Lord had other plans! While IMing with dad tonight, (or this a.m.), I asked if he shouldn't be in bed resting since he had a funeral to preach. He responded, saying that the family had found someone nearer to where they live! Praise the Lord! I know Jungle Mom will be happy when she reads this.

Now a personal note to my dad, if he reads this! --- DAD, You and I both know that there are many good, qualified pastors here in the Tampa Bay area who aren't just getting over open heart surgery! Anyone of whom would have stepped up to the plate and presented Christ. But I know your heart dad. God would have given you the grace to go through the service if it had come to that. I also know you believe that any preacher/pastor worth his weight in salt can't say NO to any opportunity to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ to the lost and hurting. So dad, had you officiated today, you would have been bathed in prayer by your daughters and others, and had one soul come to the Lord Jesus Christ as their personal Lord and Savior, we all would have rejoiced with you. I love you daddy!

But I'm REALLY NOT A Morning Person!!!

You Are Sunrise

You enjoy living a slow, fulfilling life. You enjoy living every moment, no matter how ordinary. You are a person of reflection and meditation. You start and end every day by looking inward. Caring and giving, you enjoy making people happy. You're often cooking for friends or buying them gifts. All in all, you know how to love life for what it is - not for how it should be.

What Time Of Day Are You?

Congratulations Jen!

I'm so excited for our bloggity pal, Jen, from www.penofjen.blogspot.com. She and her husband just pulled off a very successful Homeschool Field Day! They were interviewed by their local paper. Head on over to her Home School Blog to see what a great day it was. Just click on the link here:
http://mcbenningschool.blogspot.com/2007/04/local-paper-spotlights-field-day.html

I Think This Is More My Style...

Or is it just because the graphic reminds me of chocolate!

Your Brain's Pattern

You have a dreamy mind, full of fancy and fantasy. You have the ability to stay forever entertained with your thoughts. People may say you're hard to read, but that's because you're so internally focused. But when you do share what you're thinking, people are impressed with your imagination.

What Pattern Is Your Brain?

Your Brain's Pattern

Your mind is an incubator for good ideas, it just takes a while for them to develop.But when you think of something, watch out!Your thoughts tend to be huge, and they come on quickly - like an explosion.You tend to be quiet around others, unless you're inspired by your next big idea.

http://www.blogthings.com/whatpatternisyourbrainquiz/">What Pattern Is Your Brain?

More About Me

Three Meme
1. Things that scare you:
- Un-informed Americans
- Liberals
- Al Gore

2. People that make me laugh:
-My husband
-Jackie Vernoy McCobb
-Mike Leonard

3. Things I hate the most:
- Allowance of whining
- Abortion
- Failing to do what is right

4. Things I don't understand:
- How a mother can abandon her children
- Rosie O'Donnell
- Doctors who perform abortions

5. Things I'm doing right now:
- Blogging
- IMing with Rita
- Listening to Shane coughing while watching "Lord of the Rings 3"

6. Things I want to do before I die:
- Lose weight
- Finish and keep up with my scrapbooking
- See my boys marry and give me grandbabies!

7. Things I can do:
- Sing
- Handle details
- BLOG!

8. Ways to describe my personality:
- Somewhat outgoing
- Lacking in self confidence
- Lover of laughter

9. Things I cannot do:
- Keep my home as neat and clean as I want to
- Math
- Stand for too long a time

10. Things I think you should listen to:-
- God's Holy Word
- Your Husband of Father
- Godly music

11. Things you should not listen to:
- Whining, critical Christians
- Rap music
- Complainers

12. Things I'd like to learn:
- To keep my mouth shut
- To use Power Point
- How to accomplish more each day

13. Favorite foods:
- Grilled Steak and onions w/ baked potato
- Philly Steak and Cheese sub
- Chocolate

14. Beverages I drink regularly:
- water
- coffee
- Crystal Light Peach Tea

15. Shows I watched as a kid:
- Gilligan's Island
- The Flintstones
- Daniel Boone

16. Three persons to tag:
- Josh Rios
- Shane Rios
- Ashley Leonard

A Walk Down Memory Lane

I realize not every one should home school. I also realize it is the best option for my family and goes hand in hand with my convictions about numerous things. I believe most problems in public school could be banished if we would use God's Word as our standard and authority. When will Americans learn that just throwing money into the system doesn't fix it! Also, if all parents could get on board 100% and be "hands-on" with their own children, what a difference we could see!

I have aunts, uncles, cousins who teach in public school and do phenomenal jobs! They have all my respect! I know they truly care for their students and become heartbroken over certain cases. I realize their jobs are not easy and have gotten more complicated over the years due to bureaucracies and political correctness.

I also attended public school Kindergarten through 5th grade. I remember with fondness certain teachers who were very kind and encouraging, but I also have many negative memories! I can remember crying for certain children who were labeled and picked on. I also remember feeling so lost at times. I happened to be a well behaved child (believe it or not!) and many times I seemed to have been looked over or neglected. I can remember days of craving a kind word or a moment of time, just an ounce of encouragement from my very busy teacher.

Something in my last post and in the comments left for me caused me to take a walk down memory lane. Let's see if I can name my teachers!

Kindergarten, Mrs. Hiss (I remember she had a fairy's wand that was all sparkly,which she would use to tap us after nap time, thus giving us permission to get up and put away our blankets.)

First Grade, Mrs. Groble (I remember making hand prints out or plaster of paris in her class.)

Second Grade, Mrs. Moore, Mrs. Bradfield (I started the year at Toddy Thomas Elementary school with Mrs. Moore as my teacher. I can't really remember her since I don't have a class photo. After first quarter, we moved and I was required to change schools. I started attending South Fortuna Elementary. I don't remember who my teacher was there the first few days, but that she fell ill and Mrs. Bradfield took her place and made a lasting impression on me.)

Third Grade, Mrs. Potter, (I remember her reading "Charlotte's Web" to us. Oh how I loved it!)

Fourth Grade, Mrs. Harrell, (I don't have good vibes here! I think possibly because this was the year we moved from a small town in California, to a good sized city in South Carolina. My grades went down hill this year! Everything in my life had been turned topsy turvey and I was afraid of the big city school. Unfortunately, I never felt like this teacher tried to get to know me.)

Fifth Grade, ??? (I'm clueless here! I think we still lived in Greenville, S.C. I don't have anything about this teacher or year in my scrapbook!)

Sixth Grade, Mr. Young - homeroom and Bible teacher (He was also the youth director at my church, Faith Baptist.) I began attending Boulevard Christian School in Greenville, S.C. I remember loving the small classes and we all felt like family.

Seventh -Eighth Grades, various teachers, (continued at Boulevard Christian School.)

Ninth Grade, various teachers, (my favorite this year had to be my Bible History teacher, Mr. Hughes.)

Tenth Grade, various teachers, (We had moved from S.C. to Florida. Mr. Johnson and Mr. Carter were two of my faves as I attended, for the first time in years, a public school, DeSoto County High School, Arcadia, FL. We were in a small town with no Christian school within reasonable driving distance. Home schooling was unheard of, unless you were a missionary on a foreign field!)

Eleventh & Twelfth Grades, Mrs. Beeson, Pastor Shook, Pleasant View Welcome Christian School in Travelers Rest, S. C. We had moved once again. (This is normal when your parents are in full time ministry!) I was so happy to be in a Christian environment daily and a small family style school!

But my all time favorite teacher was Mrs. Bradfield-2nd grade. I had started the year at Toddy Thomas Elementary, but we moved and as I said, I was required to change schools. I don't recall who my teacher was the first week or so at my new school, as she became ill right after my arrival. (HMM, now that is food for thought! LOL) Her replacement was Mrs. Bradfield. I seem to remember more about her than I do any of my other elementary teachers. I remember Mrs. Bradfield's kindness in helping me assimilate to a new school. She seemed to spend extra time with me and even now after all these years, I remember her kind words to me and the many smiles and pats on my shoulder. I remember looking forward to seeing her each day! Perhaps she was so in tune with me due to her own mis-givings of being thrust into a new classroom full of tiny strangers! I do remember hearing the news that my original teacher couldn't return to teach due to illness, and I HATED it. My security at the new school seemed to be slipping away, but Mrs. Bradfield helped me get over that feeling in short order!

Looking back on all of our moves, I realize that home schooling would have been so much better for me! I wouldn't have had to adjust to new teachers and their styles or a new curricula at every turn. My "teachers and curriculum" would have moved right along with us. I know my parents did the best they could. The years we were able to be enrolled in Christian schools were only possible because my dear Mom would work in those schools! Most years, she drove one of the school buses and worked in the library between morning and afternoon routes. She was willing to fill in wherever needed, the school office or day care. Sometimes, I would get a warm surprise when I would go through the cafeteria line and there would be my mom, filling my plate while substituting for a sick employee!

Many thanks for taking this walk with me down memory lane!

Who Do You Believe In?

I trust you are having a wonderful Sunday!

“Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believeth on me, the works that I do shall he do also; and greater works than these shall he do; because I go unto my Father.” (John 14:12)

When someone attains a measure of success in the public spotlight, what words do you normally hear them say when they are interviewed? That person usually says, “Because my ______________(fill in the blank – grandmother, mother, father, sister, friend, whoever) believed in me, I was able to accomplish what I’ve done.” Amazingly, one person’s faith in another person’s ability inspires great achievement.

Christ demonstrated this fact when He chose Peter as a disciple. Recognizing his potential (Matthew 16:16-20), Jesus challenged Peter to follow Him. After Christ’s death and resurrection, the Lord’s words about Peter were fulfilled when the Holy Spirit transformed his life at the day of Pentecost. Even though Peter was uneducated and untrained, his confidence and willingness to die for the sake of the Gospel amazed the elders, rulers, and scribes. (Acts 4:13-14) Because Christ patiently loved and encouraged Peter, he was able to perform miracles and change the world with the message of Jesus’ love and forgiveness.

Does this same underlying principal lie at the root of every homeschooler’s success? What else could account for the incredible results in academic success in homeschooled children when most homeschooling parents only have a high school education or less? Apparently, learning is only part of the equation in a child’s ability to achieve great things; the other part lies within a loving parent’s heart. When you see God’s potential within your child and then encourage him while he reaches out to obtain it, you’ll be amazed at what your child achieves too.

Lord,

Forgive me for limiting my child because of my unbelief in his abilities. Help me inspire him to greatness by believing in who and what You’ve created him to be.

In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Friday Funny

THE ITALIAN TOMATO GARDEN

An old Italian man lived alone in the country. He wanted to dig his tomato garden, but it was very hard work as the ground was hard. His only son, Vincent, who used to help him, was in prison. The old man wrote a letter to his son and described his predicament.

Dear Vincent,

I am feeling pretty bad because it looks like I won't be able to plant my tomato garden this year. I'm just getting too old to be digging up a garden plot. I know if you were here my troubles would be over. I know you would be happy to dig the plot for me.

Love, Dad



A few days later he received a letter from his son.

Dear Dad,

Don't dig up that garden. That's where I buried the bodies.

Love, Vinnie

At 4 a.m. the next morning, FBI agents and local police arrived and dug up the entire area without finding any bodies. They apologized to the old man and left. That same day the old man received another letter from his son.

Dear Dad,

Go ahead and plant the tomatoes now. That's the best I could do under the circumstances.

Love you, Vinnie
Ciao

LOSERS-By Oliver North

Losers

If Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid is right, nearly 60 percent of Americans agree with him that the war in Iraq is already lost. And if he is correct in saying that losing the war will increase Democrat majorities in future elections, then it may be fair to conclude that Americans now love losers. I'm not buying any of it -- and neither are the troops who are fighting this war. In the days since Reid announced "this war is lost," I have heard from dozens of the soldiers, sailors, airmen, Guardsmen and Marines.

To read the entire article, click here.

http://www.gopusa.com/commentary/onorth/2007/on_04271.shtml

Two Great Men!

"I believe with all my heart that standing up for America means standing up for the God who has so blessed our land. We need God’s help to guide our nation through stormy seas. But we can’t expect Him to protect America in a crisis if we just leave Him over on the shelf in our day-to-day living."

--Ronald Reagan, November 16, 1982






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PRAYER AND FAITH IN THE NEWS

Coach Tony Dungy fields questions from participants in
“Ask the White House” on April 23. Dungy, an active Christian, gave testimony to his faith during the session. Photo courtesy of the White House.

Coach Expresses Appreciation for Christian Campus Group

The NFL Champion Indianapolis Colts were honored at the White House this week during a ceremony on the South Lawn. As a part of their visit, Coach Tony Dungy, known for his dynamic Christian faith, took questions as a part of “Ask the White House,” a regular feature on the White House website. “Christopher” of Grafton, ND asked Dungy’s opinion of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes. The following is Coach Dungy’s answer: What do I think of FCA? It means a great deal to me because the Fellowship of Christian Athletes really brings together two things that are close to me: athletics and my Christian faith. I think that’s a great organization to volunteer with as well as they help out in junior highs, high schools, colleges, and help student-athletes become more aware of their surroundings and their eternal life and that has been a great, great benefit to me as I’ve grown up.

God Says: "Pam, Don't Worry!"

Philippians 4:6-7

"Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus."

Would I Survive In The Jungle?

I saw this quiz over at my sister's blog (Jungle Mom) and just had to do it!

Your result
You scored 14 out of 30
To others you seem to be a confident, fearless person who could easily cope with all the hazards and discomfort that time spent in the jungle might throw at them. The trouble is that while you put on a bold front, on occasion you are quaking inside. This could have you find yourself in dangerous situations that you are unable to handle. Don't be afraid to admit to being frightened at times, as other people will respect you for it.

HELP, I've Fallen Behind and I Can't Catch Up!

I can't seem to stay on top of things lately. Would you all mind if I post some photos from our Easter Sunday? I know, I'm only about a month behind, but I really would like to share the photos with my family. Hope you don't find these too old and boring! Remember, Dad had his heart attack a few days before Easter and was in the hospital waiting for open-heart surgery during this time. I think that is when I got so far behind on everything!

We didn't color eggs this year, but instead found this neat cookie kit at Wal-Mart. It included the already made cookies, with frosting of different colors and candies. Shane really enjoyed it!

After the morning service, we went to Olive Garden to eat with the Leonard family. Above are Alex and Shane!

Mike and Kim Leonard, dear friends of ours! If you ever need a laugh, hang out with this couple!

My hubby was working, but took time out to pop over to our table and give us the royal treatment! Isn't he so handsome? I was in so much pain this day, but forced myself out for the sake of the boys. Josh had to help me dress before church. Normally, Agustin will do this on a Sunday if I'm too stiff, but he had to go in early that day. I told Josh he was receiving more training for when he becomes a husband.

Excuse the squints! They were staring right into the glorious sun!

Josh and Shane Rios with Ashley and Alex Leonard - outside of Olive Garden!

I was being silly and thought it would be funny to snap a photo of the Leonard's in their van every time we passed them! Josh was driving and would keep maneuvering so we would have to pass them or they would pass us. I remember giggling so hard! I'm sure everyone else thought the lady in the Caddy was nuts!

(It doesn't take much to amuse me, just ask Yekwana man!)

Later, after going home and changing clothes and waiting for Agustin to get home from work, we all headed for Tampa General Hospital to visit Dad. He was feeling great, having been resting in the hospital for 4 days and awaiting surgery for a triple by-pass. We took plastic Easter eggs with us and hid them in his hospital room. He thought it was a hoot! We also took boiled eggs to eat and a few other goodies. We actually had quite the unique Easter this year! Most importantly, we rejoiced in the fact that we serve a RISEN Savior!

Wanna Help Me Welcome A New Blogger to the Block?

I only have time for a real quick post here. My cousin has finally started her own blog! YAY Teresa! Anyway, if you would like to visit her new corner of the blogosphere, simply click here.
http://thoughtsofteresa.blogspot.com/ The actual name of her blog is "Think, think, think.. and is listed on my sidebar. She is a real sweetie and I just know you all will be happy to get to know her.

Have a God filled day!

A Media Bias Highlight!

A Sampling of Media Bias HighlightsFrom the Media Research Center

First-100-Days Flop

In January it was ABC’s Charles Gibson leading the biased coverage about how great the Dems’ “First 100 Days” running Congress were going to be.But to his credit, late last week when the first hundred were up, he admitted their failure to get much of anything done. In contrast to Gibson’s honesty, the other nets just ignored it. Brian Williams on the NBC Nightly News deflected the issue, leading with what he called a “growing political problem for the White House” -- missing emails. --

MRC’s CyberAlert, April 16

Are You An Encourager?

Two men, both seriously ill, occupied the same hospital room. One man was allowed to sit up in his bed for an hour each afternoon to help drain the fluid from his lungs. His bed was next to the room's only window. The other man had to spend all his time flat on his back. The men talked for hours on end. They spoke of their wives and families, their homes, their jobs, their involvement in the military service, where they had been on vacation. Every afternoon, when the man in the bed by the window could sit up, he would pass the time by describing to his roommate all the things he could see outside the window. The man in the other bed began to live for those one hour periods where his world would be broadened and enlivened by all the activity and color of the world outside. The window overlooked a park with a lovely lake. Ducks and swans played on the water while children sailed their model boats. Young lovers walked arm in arm amidst flowers of every color and a fine view of the city skyline could be seen in the distance. As the man by the window described all this in exquisite details, the man on the other side of the room would close his eyes and imagine this picturesque scene. One warm afternoon, the man by the window described a parade passing by. Although the other man could not hear the band - he could see it in his mind ' s eye as the gentleman by the window portrayed it with descriptive words. Days, weeks and months passed. One morning, the day nurse arrived to bring water for their baths only to find the lifeless body of the man by the window, who had died peacefully in his sleep. She was saddened and called the hospital attendants to take the body away. As soon as it seemed appropriate, the other man asked if he could be moved next to the window. The nurse was happy to make the switch, and after making sure he was comfortable, she left him alone. Slowly, painfully, he propped himself up on one elbow to take his first look at the real world outside. He strained to slowly turn to look out the window besides the bed. It faced a blank wall. The man asked the nurse what could have compelled his deceased roommate who had described such wonderful things outside this window. The nurse responded that the man was blind and could not even see the wall. She said, "Perhaps he just wanted to encourage you."

Epilogue: There is tremendous happiness in making others happy, despite our own situations. Shared grief is half the sorrow, but happiness when shared, is doubled. If you want to feel rich, just count all the things you have that money can't buy.

"Today is a gift, that is why it is called The Present ."

A Great Find!

http://icky.blogspot.com/2007/04/remembering-lauren-ashley-mccain-miss.html

Beto and Brenda's Wedding!

My husband's Uncle Manuel Vargas performed our wedding ceremony in Queretaro, Qro., Mexico back in 1986. Now his son, Beto, has married Brenda. Her parents were some of the first folks I met when I first moved to Mexico. We attended the same church! Well, now Beto and Brenda are all grown up and Uncle Manuel also performed their ceremony at the beautiful hacienda of Hermana Irma in Queretaro. I love the simple elegance of this reception! I know my sister and her hubby (Jungle Mom and Yekwana Man) would love seeing the following photos, as they are still in contact with Brenda's parents.


The Bride and Groom, Brenda and Beto!

Uncle Manuel and Aunt Edna with their son and new daughter-in-law!

My mother-in-law with her nephew, the groom. Also pictured are two of my sisters-in-law, Berenice and Imelda.

The bride and groom with their parents! (Cheuy, Mina, Brenda, Beto, Edna, Manuel) Rita, if you enlarge the above photo, you will see Agustin's dad in the back speaking with a Gringo. Is that who I think it is???

Los Novios! The Newlyweds! Don't the grounds of the hacienda look lovely?

Belated, but Great Florida Homeschool News!

March 30, 2007Florida:

Governor Issues Homeschool Proclamation!

Dear HSLDA Members and Friends,

Good news! Governor Charlie Crist has issued a proclamation to celebrate the contribution of homeschooling in Florida. To our knowledge, there has never been a proclamation by a governor in Florida celebrating homeschooling. Regina Hicks of FPEA worked with HSLDA to draft the proclamation for the governor. Regina then contacted the governor's office to secure this proclamation. We urge all homeschoolers in Florida to widely distribute this proclamation and celebrate homeschooling during the designated week, April 1-7, 2007. To review or print the proclamation go to http://www.hslda.org/hs/state/fl/Florida_proclamation.pdfSincerely,

Christopher J. Klicka
HSLDA Senior Counsel

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To read Governor Crist's biography, go here:http://www.flgov.com/gov_biography

A Little Something My Friend Ashley Will Enjoy!

Your French Name is:

Jenay Millet

What's" Your French Name?