Well my how quickly these weeks are flying by! Drew reminded me this morning that Nicole is coming. So a house cleaning is due today. Gabe is sick! He complained of an earache and sure enough he has one. So he is on antibiotics and laying around. Then there is Matt who I haven't seen in a week. Dan sees him everyday. I actually had someone call yesterday and see if he needed a job!!
Supper at church went well. We had extra food which we took over to a family that has 11 children. I know with that many children there is never enough food. Read a story in the doctor's office yesterday about a couple with 17 children. There grocery bill is $2,000 per month, they live in a 7,000 sq ft house, and have 9 cars. How do you come up with that kind of money!!!!
Tomorrow I am going to do a yard sale with Denise. Hopefully, it will go well. I don't know, we didn't get an add in the paper. If I could make enough to by some school clothes that would be great. I figure Gabe and Matt are going to need around $400 worth of stuff. Everything needs to be replaced!!!! Again how does that women with so many children cloth them.
Thursday, June 28, 2007
Wednesday, June 27, 2007
Books!!
I just finished reading Anne Quindlen's book Rise and Shine. Not my favorite book she has written. I loved Blessings and One True Thing, but this took to long to get going. I think it was on page 228 before I was really hooked. I want to read her book How Reading Changed My Life. Perhaps it will give me needed insight into how I can best help my babies next year.
One of the biggest complaints of 5th graders is, "The book isn't interesting." How do you teach them to stick with it, it may get better. Rise and Shine did get better 40 pages before the end. If I would have given up I would have missed the purpose. Another important trait 5th graders need to learn.
Oh well! Today is going to be spent helping Freda who has got herself in a mess fixing supper at church tonight for 60 people. It should be simple enough. Of course if I was S. I would have a nifty apron for the occassion. I will rely on the blue, white, and yellow one!!!!
One of the biggest complaints of 5th graders is, "The book isn't interesting." How do you teach them to stick with it, it may get better. Rise and Shine did get better 40 pages before the end. If I would have given up I would have missed the purpose. Another important trait 5th graders need to learn.
Oh well! Today is going to be spent helping Freda who has got herself in a mess fixing supper at church tonight for 60 people. It should be simple enough. Of course if I was S. I would have a nifty apron for the occassion. I will rely on the blue, white, and yellow one!!!!
Monday, June 25, 2007
Funerals, Friends, and Friendliness
I went to the funeral today. The chapel was packed. When I got there Robin was at the door, "Hurry," she says, "Jena is waiting to see you!" I rushed in and I am always amazed that no matter how long it has been since you've seen them, friends just fall back into the relationship. Jena was glad I came. Jamie her daughter Matt's age is BEAUTIFUL!!!! I'm so sad they didn't grow up together and get married!!!!
The funeral was short and sweet. Robin said that a funeral is not the time for a preacher to prove what an eloquent speaker he is. The minister talked of God's grace and that our lives can not be defined by a single moment. I understood the point he was making, yet our lives are defined by a moment--- the moment we decide to accept Jesus as our Savior or not. (Lennye's commentary is free of charge!) Yet, his point was well taken, Sally had done many kind and noble things in her life and we shouldn't judge her on that moment she took the life of her mother-in-law and then turned the gun on herself. I felt so sad for the family.
Afterwards Robin and I say in the chapel and talked. Jena came in and sat with us for about 10 minutes. I love the fact that while I am short on family, I am long on friends.
Then I stopped at Kroger for my favorite water and some lettuce. Since I was across the street from the Panera Bread Company, I stopped in for bread to go with supper. The girl behind the counter was so friendly. "I hope you enjoy your bread and have a wonderful night." I was surprised someone who appreciated the effort I was making to shop there.
Next, I couldn't leave Macon without a Starbucks Mocha Frappacino. So I pulled in and the girl says, "I know it is a hot day and I sure hope you enjoy your drink!" WHAT---all this friendliness on a Monday. You never get that here in Jackson, it is like you have bothered them by coming in, especially Ingles!
So seeing friends--even at a sad time--and friendly service can really help to make one's day.
The funeral was short and sweet. Robin said that a funeral is not the time for a preacher to prove what an eloquent speaker he is. The minister talked of God's grace and that our lives can not be defined by a single moment. I understood the point he was making, yet our lives are defined by a moment--- the moment we decide to accept Jesus as our Savior or not. (Lennye's commentary is free of charge!) Yet, his point was well taken, Sally had done many kind and noble things in her life and we shouldn't judge her on that moment she took the life of her mother-in-law and then turned the gun on herself. I felt so sad for the family.
Afterwards Robin and I say in the chapel and talked. Jena came in and sat with us for about 10 minutes. I love the fact that while I am short on family, I am long on friends.
Then I stopped at Kroger for my favorite water and some lettuce. Since I was across the street from the Panera Bread Company, I stopped in for bread to go with supper. The girl behind the counter was so friendly. "I hope you enjoy your bread and have a wonderful night." I was surprised someone who appreciated the effort I was making to shop there.
Next, I couldn't leave Macon without a Starbucks Mocha Frappacino. So I pulled in and the girl says, "I know it is a hot day and I sure hope you enjoy your drink!" WHAT---all this friendliness on a Monday. You never get that here in Jackson, it is like you have bothered them by coming in, especially Ingles!
So seeing friends--even at a sad time--and friendly service can really help to make one's day.
Weekends!
Weekends should be for resting! Why is that never the case around here. I don't think anyone who exists in the world of large animals has free time. It is 7 days a week with no exceptions. Our weekend went like this:
First, we looked for houses again. I think we are now considering Turtle Cove. That was until this morning when Dan called at 6:30am and said that the rent house with the barn is now available. Here is the problem----When your house is attached with the barn, if the barn lease falls apart, then you have to move too. So this is more discussion and part of the reason we never make a decision.
Second, there Dan's Sunday School class. We planned a cookout and no one came! It was at Denise's house so at least her and Shelby were there. I think Singles Sunday School Classes are hard to motivate!!!!!!! Especially, when the teacher is working 14 to 15 hours a day 6 days a week and 7 hours on Sunday. Then he is married to a crazy woman working on her doctorate.
Then there is the #1 son and his desire to get married. He did start his new job today. Hopefully it will move to full time fast!
I'm so glad weekends are only two days, although around here they just blend with the rest of the week.
I need to add some clarifications to my last post. Yes, we have thought about another state. Land in Oklahoma (HA! HA!) is very reasonable. But, Dan would have to rebuild his clients and that seems overwhelming. To run Dan's business takes about 40 acres at the least. One of the problems right now is the distance from Dan's work to home. So we forever wrestle with the issue do we get a house or do we get land? Because out here both are not affordable. Hence, the $500,000 house/land.
On the new work schedule we are all teaching subjects. Reese/Math, Brannan/Language, Harper/Science and Social Studies, me Reading/writing. Just tell me what you want.
Today, if I can change my dentist appointment I am going to go to Macon for Jena's mom's funeral. I will pass on the Grandmother's funeral. Although according to the timing I think they may be overlapping. This is so sad and my heart goes out to Jena and her family.
First, we looked for houses again. I think we are now considering Turtle Cove. That was until this morning when Dan called at 6:30am and said that the rent house with the barn is now available. Here is the problem----When your house is attached with the barn, if the barn lease falls apart, then you have to move too. So this is more discussion and part of the reason we never make a decision.
Second, there Dan's Sunday School class. We planned a cookout and no one came! It was at Denise's house so at least her and Shelby were there. I think Singles Sunday School Classes are hard to motivate!!!!!!! Especially, when the teacher is working 14 to 15 hours a day 6 days a week and 7 hours on Sunday. Then he is married to a crazy woman working on her doctorate.
Then there is the #1 son and his desire to get married. He did start his new job today. Hopefully it will move to full time fast!
I'm so glad weekends are only two days, although around here they just blend with the rest of the week.
I need to add some clarifications to my last post. Yes, we have thought about another state. Land in Oklahoma (HA! HA!) is very reasonable. But, Dan would have to rebuild his clients and that seems overwhelming. To run Dan's business takes about 40 acres at the least. One of the problems right now is the distance from Dan's work to home. So we forever wrestle with the issue do we get a house or do we get land? Because out here both are not affordable. Hence, the $500,000 house/land.
On the new work schedule we are all teaching subjects. Reese/Math, Brannan/Language, Harper/Science and Social Studies, me Reading/writing. Just tell me what you want.
Today, if I can change my dentist appointment I am going to go to Macon for Jena's mom's funeral. I will pass on the Grandmother's funeral. Although according to the timing I think they may be overlapping. This is so sad and my heart goes out to Jena and her family.
Friday, June 22, 2007
Oh Me!!
I've always kinda of known I have issues with whiney people, but today I know for sure I do. I just don't do whiney!!!! The older I get I don't do dumb either!! Pay attention, look sharp, and let's get the job done.
We learned of our new schedule for next year today and it is going to be a lot of work in a little amount of time. But that is okay! I think I kind of like knowing that I only have to write two lesson plans, and I will know it is getting taught. I actually am looking forward to my computer and my room! I just wish I was artsy and could come up with an open inviting room!!!
The Gabester is home from a long week at camp. I don't know how much he learned of Jesus, but he has new pranks that he can use when needed.
Dan called while I was working and said he found the perfect place for (deep breathe) $500,000. We probably could afford it if we didn't have to pay barn rent and could just being paying on our own land; however, there is the problem of a down payment.
I do want a house, and I do want perfect. I just don't like change!!!! I am content with my life. The only thing we need to do is make things better for Dan. Oh for a normal job, vacations, and the stuff ordinary people do!! I vote for the mundane!
We learned of our new schedule for next year today and it is going to be a lot of work in a little amount of time. But that is okay! I think I kind of like knowing that I only have to write two lesson plans, and I will know it is getting taught. I actually am looking forward to my computer and my room! I just wish I was artsy and could come up with an open inviting room!!!
The Gabester is home from a long week at camp. I don't know how much he learned of Jesus, but he has new pranks that he can use when needed.
Dan called while I was working and said he found the perfect place for (deep breathe) $500,000. We probably could afford it if we didn't have to pay barn rent and could just being paying on our own land; however, there is the problem of a down payment.
I do want a house, and I do want perfect. I just don't like change!!!! I am content with my life. The only thing we need to do is make things better for Dan. Oh for a normal job, vacations, and the stuff ordinary people do!! I vote for the mundane!
Thursday, June 21, 2007
Laughter and Children
Once upon a time in Oklahoma!!!!! (I just read M's comment.) I found out that humor was more fun than crying, so I kept it. Also we all know that fat folks are jolly! On a serous side wouldn't you hate not being able to laugh at situations, yourself, and others! What a great stress relief laughing can be.
Now on the subject of parents having favorite children. I think we all try to love our children equally, but may lean towards one over the other. The oldest at my house is moving into adulthood at a rapid pace. Finally, got a vet tech job yesterday, that might turn into fulltime in a few months, and was already mentioning the "m" word. Along with graduate school, and I am saying nothing. I've tried over the last few months to gently guide and he doesn't want to be guided!!!!! So my lips are sealed on the subject!
The middle child would be content to bum around the US going to horse shows. Just catching a ride with whoever, like a darn bull rider!! He is going to break me this summer. Him and his daddy!!! (Who is fighting the restless spirit.) It is hard to believe I only have one more year to try and get incredible amounts of knowledge in his head!
Then there is the precious baby (who is ten). He is off at children's camp. I've missed him. He is growing up. It is hard to believe he will be in junior high. I hope that his social skills somewhat improve before August.
In the mix of all the child rearing issues, we are trying to decide on a house. I found one I really like, but the cost would strain our budget to the max. I don't like that feeling, since the budget feels strained now! It is sad that I have a masters degree in education and working on a doctorate, which next year without the dissertation will pay T-6 pay. Yet, I struggle to find money every month and owning our own home is a dream. I did find another one in Monticello (easier on the budget), but I don't like the neighborhood. Of course everyone wants this done before I go back to work in 4 weeks (I'm spending the week before in Atlanta working).
Oh the joy of it all!!!
Now on the subject of parents having favorite children. I think we all try to love our children equally, but may lean towards one over the other. The oldest at my house is moving into adulthood at a rapid pace. Finally, got a vet tech job yesterday, that might turn into fulltime in a few months, and was already mentioning the "m" word. Along with graduate school, and I am saying nothing. I've tried over the last few months to gently guide and he doesn't want to be guided!!!!! So my lips are sealed on the subject!
The middle child would be content to bum around the US going to horse shows. Just catching a ride with whoever, like a darn bull rider!! He is going to break me this summer. Him and his daddy!!! (Who is fighting the restless spirit.) It is hard to believe I only have one more year to try and get incredible amounts of knowledge in his head!
Then there is the precious baby (who is ten). He is off at children's camp. I've missed him. He is growing up. It is hard to believe he will be in junior high. I hope that his social skills somewhat improve before August.
In the mix of all the child rearing issues, we are trying to decide on a house. I found one I really like, but the cost would strain our budget to the max. I don't like that feeling, since the budget feels strained now! It is sad that I have a masters degree in education and working on a doctorate, which next year without the dissertation will pay T-6 pay. Yet, I struggle to find money every month and owning our own home is a dream. I did find another one in Monticello (easier on the budget), but I don't like the neighborhood. Of course everyone wants this done before I go back to work in 4 weeks (I'm spending the week before in Atlanta working).
Oh the joy of it all!!!
Wednesday, June 20, 2007
What A Weekend!!!
I can't even begin to tell you how much fun I had in a short time. The reunion was amazing! The only down side was being so FAT!!!! Otherwise, I felt great about my life after 30 years. It was hard to believe how some people had changed and how others had blossomed. Two of the girls in high school that weren't in "The Group" were the friendliest and most fun to be around. One friend had become so bitter it wasn't even funny. Others had become friendlier.
One of the coolest things was at breakfast some of our old teachers came. It was funny to see Johnny Ray walk Mrs. Cochran (now 92) to her car, carrying her purse. We all looked out the window and laughed remembering 30 years ago she wouldn't have let him near her purse. We also saw the girl's basketball coach and his wife. Since retirement he has spent his time creating a museum to Gene Autry and the singing cowboys of the 40's and 50's. It just so happened that on Saturday they were hosting Gene Autry Days (Gene Autry is a little community outside Ardmore). We decided after greasy burgers at Hamburger Inn to go out and we had a lot of fun. Dan could have stayed all day.
I think like most seniors we missed the most likely to succeed! The one we voted doesn't even work! Yet, one of our classmates is now the CEO of a company called Boots and Coots (formerly known as The Red Adair Company). He caps oil well blowouts plus more stuff!
Then there was the one beauty in high school who now has rotted out teeth. She's a meth addict. Then the ones in federal prision, and those just getting out. What a weekend!!!
All in all we had a grand time. Dan was at his best. He didn't know a lot of people I went to school with, but fit right in.
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