The Morgans

Goodbye for now

2009-08-17T17:58:00.000-07:00

Goodbye dear blog.
I have a job with a long commute.
Enough said.

Cycling

2009-06-13T07:35:00.000-07:00

You know....if you are cool....you call it "cycling" - NOT "biking".

So - Jon, Bill and I were "cycling" to the lake the other night.

Jon took this pic of me drinking from my waterbottle with his iPhone

(cool people don't call an iPhone a "cellphone").

It was way lighter than the picture looks.

Not Blogging

2009-06-11T16:49:00.001-07:00

Can you tell - I am not blogging.

What we've been up to:

1. Trip to El Paso

2. Surviving thunderstorms with a "stoned" dog....I wonder if she will have to go through rehab.

3. Apply for job after job after job after job after job after job........

4. Had bone graft done on tooth......chatted the whole time during procedure - on happy pills. (I love those pills)

5. Jonathan living with us.....surviving his contiual pursuit to get me to exercise with him everyday: pilates, tae bo, biking, aerobics......shhhhsh!

6. Tried planting grass seed.....I mean really - how long does it take to grow!!! I think most washed away with the storms.

Springfield Trip - Bringing Jonathan to Texas

2009-05-18T05:54:00.000-07:00

I just got back from my wonderful trip to Springfield - got to spend time with the boys and then Jonathan and I drove back to Texas where he started his internship today! Here are pics to remember the trip.....

Will and Jonathan met me at the airport with these wonderful "Cake Pops" (Will's Mother's Day gift to me). Hayley should check into these - they are round little cakes + icing and then covered with this candy coating. Wonderfully delicious!

Of course I had to have my hair done while near the stylist!

Lunch with Jonathan and Jaime!

She's such a cutie!

Where Jonathan will be living next year with 4 other guys from his fraternity!

Doesn't this look like a college house! They are one block from the stadium and the building where all his classes will be held next year.

Jonathan coming back from his last final for the semester!

The final act of the semester - selling those expensive books to get enough money for a pizza!

Meeting Will and Kelly

Fondu Night crazy fun picture

Fondu night

Cheese fondu

Chocolate fondu

(I know want a fondu pot!)

Texas - here we come!

Back with Pictures

2009-05-11T07:51:00.000-07:00

Okay Okay - so I've been told.......UPDATE YOUR BLOG!
Had a grand Mother's Day - Carol and Jonna came to visit. They brought Belle - their little poodle dog - cute as a button. Dogs did great! Belle was very well behaved and Kayla did not eat her. Forgot to get a picture of Belle!

I love this man!

Carol's new camera - crazy man in background. Wait - is that the man I love?

Duck lips - although Jonna looks cute with duck lips (more like a pout)

Sexy Jerry picture.

Mother's Day Mimosas - Bill made us brunch and drinks! I was on the cellphone with Jonathan - he was wishing me a happy Mother's Day!

Happy Mother's Day Sisters!

(I love this picture!)

Complain Complain Complain

2009-02-25T12:51:00.000-08:00

1. A complainer has a dis - eased heart
2. A complainer is seldom a party of one
3. A complainer says God withholds good from me

Verse in song: "Make my want be what I have".
Makes me look at what I have and be content. (Antidote to envy is contenment)

Coffee and Taxes

2009-02-17T12:58:00.001-08:00

We got to meet Lecia and Elaine for coffee (as well as Jerry and Lauren but I didn't get a picture of us all - DARN!). Such a good visit!!!!!

Bill and I did our taxes EARLY and used TurboTax. We've used it before and this is the first time we've gotten back down to the basics where we could use it again. It was so fun.... It's very easy to use and walks you through it. Plus - there is this little ticker in the upper right of the screen that constantly tracks your refund or how much you have to pay. So, depending on the amount you put in the box....it starts ticking off....just like a slot machine.

Can be quit exciting at times!

Is Blogging becoming Outdated?

2009-02-16T16:04:00.000-08:00

Hey - I've noticed that people aren't blogging that often anymore. Is it because everyone is too busy...or is this becoming a thing of the past?

Your thoughts?

Day without the Car

2009-02-12T06:29:00.000-08:00

Bill and I have been living like we only have one car. So far, it is working like a charm.

Today he has the car for his drs. appt. I am:

1. going for a walk

2. cleaning the house (even the baseboards and ceiling fans)

3. I might read my novel for a bit (but I always feel guilty doing this during the middle of a day)

4. Will look at all my shoes and see if I really need all of them. Who wear's a 6 1/2 or a 7?

5. Pull out papers to do our taxes? (haven't decided on that one yet)

I have:

1. Started BSF (Bible Study Fellowship)

2. Gearing up to volunteer at our hospital in day surgery

3. Planned our neighborhood outing for this evening to go to "Movie Tavern" and see "Taken" while we eat dinner......all going in a van together!

I'm pretty sure that Kayla will sleep through all of this.

New First

2009-02-08T16:40:00.000-08:00

This afternoon after church and meetings (about 1pm) - I made us some grilled cheese and tomato soup. Bill took them into our bedroom on trays, we had 3 newspapers (Dallas, Ft Worth and Denton) and my novel and we crawled in bed and read, napped and lazed around ALL AFTERNOON! Kayla asleep in her bed beside me.......Such a fun lazy afternoon of nothing to do!

My Children Don't Look Like Me!

2009-02-06T15:12:00.001-08:00

I always knew this to be true......Those Morgan genes are just too strong!

Jonathan Morgan Look-alike Meter

2009-02-06T15:04:00.001-08:00

MyHeritage: Look-alike Meter - Family reunion - Geneology

Will Morgan Look-alike Meter

2009-02-06T14:59:00.001-08:00

MyHeritage: Family trees - Genealogy - Celebrities - Collage - Morph

Cosmetics Cop

2009-01-28T08:28:00.000-08:00

I discovered a website that researches all the cosmetics, skin care, hair care, body care, etc and let's you know how good they really are! It's a great site and very informative. I saw the "costmetic cop" on the news and decided to check it out. There are so many products on the drugstore shelf that does as good if not better job than those higher priced department store brand. In this site you can look up a brand and see how good it really is. It is well worth checking this site out and exploring through it.

http://www.paulaschoice.com/

Is it Worth It?

2009-01-27T07:58:00.000-08:00

I have a question and would love everyone's opinion on this.
Is it worth it to go grocery shopping to 2 different stores?

Here's what I face:
Walmart ("green", beautiful, wonderful store): good prices (my cereal is $2 cheaper here), great atmosphere, can find "most" anything. - takes me 15 min to get there - so, more gas.
Kroger (new, beautiful, wonderful store): a little pricier than Walmart, but is located down the street.

So - I KNOW I can shop cheaper at Walmart - but does the extra gas justify going out there. Walmart doesn't carry everything I use. Kroger does - but is more expensive but closer.

Hmmmm...........

What would you do?

I'm In Love

2009-01-25T11:52:00.001-08:00

Did I happen to mention that I am in love with my hair products? Will turned me on to the Aveda product line. It is a "green" company (that's always nice) - but I have to say - my hair has never looked or felt more healthy. Having thin/fine hair - a lot of products weigh my hair down. I am using the shampoo, conditioner, volumizer (wonderful!) and just got the hairspray. Did I mention that I was in love? Do they make the hairspray scent as a perfume?

My New Kroger

2009-01-23T13:08:00.001-08:00

Today our new Kroger opened (down the street froms us). I was so excited to get a grocery store closer to where we lived. I needed jalapenos for "Friday Night Nacho Night" (tonight - wooo hoooo!) and timed it to run in on the day the store opened.

As I crossed the threshold into the new and improved Krogers - What should my wondering eyes and excited heart see - but a Kroger Paradise! Shushi bar, anti-pasta bar - soup bar - health products in abundance - bulk containers of stuff - appliances, cookware, dishes, books, food, wine, flowers. And you say - but a lot of nice grocery stores carry all that! Yes! I say back - BUT - this one is near my house!!!!!!!!!

I felt like a little girl looking around, giggling, eyes wide - feeling an overwhelming desire to skip through the store and twirl in my petticoat.

I kept saying to people - "Isn't this wonderful?" "Isn't this grand?" "Can you believe this?"
Oh my - I am a happy girl.

Detox - the conclusion

2009-01-22T06:53:00.000-08:00

Finished my 7 day detox program....getting all those toxins out of my system. Result.....I feel just the same. They say that some people have more energy at the end of the program. My energy level is the same. I can't tell that it did any difference to my system....except psychologically. The good that came from it - was eating plenty of fiber and drinking lots of water. Now if I can just continue with that! Would I do it again? I might at one time or another. But then again, it took me 52 years to try it the first time!

Trip in the country

2009-01-17T14:53:00.001-08:00

Bill and I went on a road trip today - below are a few of the characters/scenes that we saw.

Windmill Farm

Up close and personal with a windmill

Kayla was too scared to get out of the car.

What's up doc?

This is my good side!

Water Logged

2009-01-16T13:00:00.001-08:00

I am on day 5 of this detox regime. I think the toxins finally started leaving my body today. I am water logged and feeling normal. They were right - you have to eat lots of fiber and drink LOTS of water!

Who is that behind those Foster Grants?

2009-01-15T08:36:00.000-08:00

Well - that is really not me.....but that is what the jeep looked like when I drove it this a.m. in 27 degree weather!!!! I had to take my car to the shop this a.m. - Bill followed me in the jeep. After dropping off the car - I took Bill to work and then drove back home in the jeep.

It was 27 degrees (I checked before we left) - I had on my long underwear (top and bottom) my chords, turtleneck & sweater, two pairs of socks, jacket with fleece liner, warm hat over my ears and warm scarf around my neck and leather gloves. While driving - I also brought a blanket to wrap around my legs. I am SURE we attracted a lot of stares - but I was wearing my 'Foster Grants' so no one would recognize me and pretend that this is the way we drove all the time!

I have to say - I was very comfortable except for my fingers - wrong gloves to wear I guess. I didn't know if they were freezing or what! Man they hurt - I kept moving my fingers - but it even hurt to move them. As soon as I got home - I raced to the kitchen and stuck them under the water. Then........at 8:00AM in the morning ......I made myself a bubble bath and crawled inside the tub for the final warm up. (YES! A bubble bath at 8:00AM! - and Yes! I did feel decadent).

When I go back this afternoon to pick up the car.....I'll probably burn up - they are saying it should be about 47 degrees!

Detox Upate

2009-01-14T05:47:00.001-08:00

JUST IN CASE ANYONE ever reads my blog........I am NOT going to update EACH day on this Detox thing. So far it has been mild - drinking a lot of water - eating fiber; and it has been very gentle on the system. Is it working???......I'll let you know at the end of the program UNLESS something weird happens.

My Heart Throbs

2009-01-13T06:20:00.000-08:00

I just had to post my two most favorite pictures......the first was taken of Will and Jonathan at age 4 and 1.........the second was our Christmas present this year.....at age 25 and 21. My heart just swells when I look at either of these pictures.

Detox - Day 1

2009-01-12T07:50:00.000-08:00

1. Morning - I started this morning (after drinking one cup of coffee - can I do that?) by taking 2 capsules of something - and then I had to drink a powder dissolved in 8 oz of water and then drink another 8 oz of water. The instructions say to drink a lot of water throughout the day (this will challenge me) and eat plenty of fiber (trip to grocery store!). So far so good - but right now - I am already water logged.....

2. Afternoon - I haven't had any "gurgglings" - feel normal. Went grocery shopping and got a lot of fruit, fiber, beans, fish, etc.

3. Evening - all is well.....been drinking lots of water and peeing all the time. Good soup for dinner. Took 2 different capsules of something an hour after dinner and drank more of the powder. Feeling really water logged.

post note: had to get up 2 times to use the bathroom (pee) from all the water. So far I feel normal.

Detox - ????

2009-01-11T12:41:00.000-08:00

Okay - I've heard over and over about "Detox"! CAN be a disgusting topic - cleansing your system (ALL systems) - getting more energy, starting off a weight loss regime, helping your allergies, etc etc. Soooooo......I decided (through Bill's moral support) to give this ole "Detox" a try and see what the results are.

Today I went to the Health Food store and spoke with a health food person and they helped me pick out "Total Body Rapid Cleanse" by Renew Life. It is a 3 part - 7 day program. I am going to document what I am going through for seven days.....and the resulting factor. I think it is about time we ALL know what all the fuss is about "DETOX".

God Grew Tired of Us

2009-01-10T11:15:00.000-08:00

Last night Bill and I watched a documentary (from Netflix) called "God Grew Tired of Us". It was about the Lost Boys of Sudan. It touched our hearts so much......I wasn't aware that this was happening. I asked Bill, "What do we do with this information now?" One answer - be aware.....be aware of our brother/sister walking next to us. It doesn't matter their ethnicity or culture.....we, as Christians, need to show compassion, understanding, caring......just say hello.

Catch up - no pics

2009-01-08T14:01:00.000-08:00

Ok - I know people like to look at pictures - I know I do...but I have just been lazy. Here are my thoughts:

1. My hair is finally getting longer - I love it. Will never go short again. So weird because I LOVE short hair - but I guess as I get older and with less hair - it's not the same.

2. I am looking for a part-time job so we can get a car. Harder to find a fun part time job than a full time job. I just applied to be a front person with LA Fitness. We'll see. That would be fun. I want fun.

3. The OU game is on tonight - Yeah! But - I just can't cheer for OU (sorry Lauren) - so I am cheering for THE BIG TWELVE (which OU is representing - which should have been UT representing. Again, sorry Lauren)

4. All this fighting in the gaza - makes me so sad. How do I even pray about that?

5. Tomorrow I am having lunch with my neighbor ladies, later in the month is wine night with the ladies. I love my neighbor ladies. :)

6. I miss my boys in Missouri.

7. Jonathan will be living with us this summer while he does his internship in Dallas. Now THAT makes me happy. :)

8. I just found out that Bill doesn't like the word "funky" - which is one of my favorite words that I use all the time - because I am all about the FUNK! Anyway - I got myself a new pair of "f....y" glasses! Yeah! :)

Two Handsome Men

2008-12-26T06:10:00.001-08:00

Having lunch the day before Christmas with Will and Jonathan and Bill.

Can it get much better than this?

Conversations with a squirrel

2008-12-21T04:24:00.000-08:00

Heard chattering between animals outside - went out and this is what I found. Kayla and a squirrel were having a conversation. Who knows what they were talking about....probably a little bit of teasing, some "I dare you" maybe.

Love Bugs

2008-12-15T13:47:00.000-08:00

Last night Bill called me to hear the "tree frog" that was somewhere on our porch. It sounded just like my sound machine I listen to. I tried to find it - putting my ear wherever I heard the "chirping". But it sounded like it was right next to my ear on the brick wall. So we turned on the light and below is what we saw.

It was one of those little green bugs - and we could see it rubbing it's tiny thin wings together making a chirping sound. Lo and behold - all of a sudden another green bug of the opposite sex (we couldn't tell which was male and which was female - although we thought the one rubbing his wings was the male) came crawling up to him and they began their little dance.

So amazing to see it all take place....... well....maybe not "Amazing" - just interesting. Hmmm...

Thanksgiving 08

2008-12-01T08:19:00.001-08:00

What fun we had - eating, visiting, sleeping, eating, vegging, laughing, teasing, enjoying the blessings of Thanksgiving!

As with any visit - the day must be started with a wrestling match!

Jonathan and Colby (dear friend of the family)

Pop and Jim (Bill's brother)

Grammy, Will and Joel

Then, the inevitable - Leaving - Whaaaaaaaa!

Journey`

2008-11-24T15:52:00.000-08:00

My sweet husband took me out to eat for my birthday - afterwards he drove me to Dallas to buy me this painting as a surprise gift. I had seen this painting on Craig's list and fell in love with it. To me, this painting represents a journey towards hope, faith, love - to God himself. I can just feel His warmth reaching out to all areas.....to lighten our path and guide our way. Do you see Him? Do you see the hope in this? It clenches my heart every time I look at it.

Windy Day

2008-11-14T15:08:00.000-08:00

It was VERY windy this early evening. I loved the clouds and just had to capture them.

BACK UP....BACK UP....BACK UP.....

2008-11-11T14:40:00.001-08:00

This is exactly what I felt like and said when I DROPPED OUR PORTABLE HARDDRIVE!!!!!
After plugging it back in and NOT seeing it appear on our computer - $$$$$$$$ starting dancing in my head.
Now - it is off to the Data Recovery Specialists!
Moral of story:
BACK UP......BACK UP......BACK UP!

San Angelo Surprise

2008-11-04T13:46:00.000-08:00

My dear husband told me he had a business trip in San Angelo this past Saturday. So, I thought it would be fun to go with him. When we got there - I had the biggest surprise - our dear friends (Cheri and Grady) showed up! Cheri was my college roommate and Bill's best friend in highschool (that's how I met Bill). Bill and Grady have been planning this trip for the past 3 weeks! It was the most wonderful surprise - and for no reason at all - just to meet up with dear friends from El Paso!

This is me being surprised when I saw Grady and Cheri.

This is my dear friend Cheri when she first saw me.

This si the bed and breakfast we stayed at. It was a "blues" place - known as "Blues Inn"

Bill and Grady on the front porch congratulating themselves on surprising the girls.

The next three slides are Bill's and my bedroom.

Across the street was a wall of door murals. Bill found one intriguing.

This is a well known bootfactory. These boots are being made for the woman that owns the land the Astrodome sits on!!

These boots are being resoled for Esther Williams (now 90 yrs old).

(for those of you who are too young - she was an actress that was known for swimming in her movies - the long and short of it)

On the San Angelo Riverwalk.

(I love this picture)

Cheri and Grady infront of a mermaid at the winery.

My other most favorite picture - college roommates umpteen years later and still best friends.

Do You Recognize the Guy In the Middle?

2008-10-16T07:51:00.001-07:00

Click on this link - "Sexy Hair" .com........in their news section......Who Do You See?
Boy - he sure is handsome!!!!!

http://www.sexyhair.com/index/In_the_News.html

Odds and Ends

2008-10-13T11:31:00.000-07:00

Just a few things to add:

1. I had our first dinner guests over. I made lamb chops (which was a first!) with a lemon/raisin couscous, salad and peach cobbler and ice cream for dessert. The lamb chops turned out great! I had never had them or made them before.

2. Hayley and Cody stopped by for brunch on their way home. Had a wonderful visit!!!

HARDwood floors

2008-10-07T19:07:00.000-07:00

Let me just say - hardwood floors are beautiful - I now have a hate/love relationship.
My whole house is hardwoods.....
1. How do I clean them?
2. They are killing my back and legs!
3.Kayla has such a drippy nose - I have dog nose juice all over!

All I am doing is unpacking - why did I used to think this was so fun! Maybe because I can remember the day when we would move into a new place, unpack, hang pictures and be done - all in ONE day!!! I am just hoping I have everything unpacked by Thanksgiving!

I figured out that since I have been married - we've lived in 11 houses!!!!

Bill's Devotional to our Church

2008-09-29T16:51:00.000-07:00

Today's Blog is by Captain Morgan

I had to give a devotional at church Sunday - something from the heart about what the church means to me. So I wrote a poem:

‘Twas The Night Before Sunday
(With apologies to Clement Clarke Moore)

‘Twas the night before Sunday, and all through the casa
all the creatures were stirring, “Caramba Que’ Pasa?”
A friend he had asked me to speak at my church
And now I stand here – deep in a lurch.
The music was playing some chill rocking blues,
And Molly was on-line reading the news.
I tried to imagine what I would say
And dreading the sunshine of that new day.
When out of my bible there arose such a clatter
I sprang from my couch to see what was the matter.
I opened the good book and what did I see?
But God’s Holy word speaking to me.
I gazed at the words with such awe and such wonder
I heard what they meant with a loud clap of thunder
The angelic glow of the heavenly host
Gave new meaning to HIM, the ONE with the most.
“Oh Lord” I did pray,
“How can I celebrate with you today?”
“How can I share with the ones that I love?”
“the ones you have brought me here from above”?
When what to my questioning heart should appear
But a wonderful service full of good cheer
With music so vibrant, so current and cool
I knew in a minute it must be Re-Fuel
Insightful and hopeful, John’s sermons ring true
and Katie’s child lessons explain them for you.
With wonderful learning’ from the Pit Crew
And lots of good food shared by those new.
And then, in a vision, I felt in my heart,
The love and the caring of each person’s part.
As I prayed to the Lord of all that is real
(With the help of our reverend, Pastor John Peel)
I heard Our God say so loud and so clear
“this is the reason I brought you both here -
now finish the service and get on with your mission –
Spread all of my word to those that are missing”
My Trinity Friends, as we leave here today,
“Know that HE loves us, and let us all pray”

The Stress of a Move

2008-09-24T10:05:00.000-07:00

I started packing the apartment yesterday to get ready for our move - Yeah!

I didn't realize what packing away the pictures would do to me -

Reduce me to tears!!!!!

So - I am posting two of my favorite pictures of the boys

so I can come to my blog anytime and look at them!

Guess I am needing a Will and Jonathan fix.

(btw - these were taken at Hayley's wedding)

I Just Love My Dog!

2008-09-18T06:03:00.000-07:00

Yes, I just love my dog. Kayla is the cutest thing.

She has become so playful (for short bursts) and loving. Not the same dog when we got her in Feb.

She won't let me take pictures of her - but this one looks just like her. Same soulful, loving eyes. Like black marbles.

This has been a busy week!

2008-09-15T13:30:00.000-07:00

This past Saturday (Sept 13) Bill and I rode in the Patriot Rally in Southlake, TX. This was to support disabled vets. It was my first bike rally with my new roadbike! I just love her. We rode 22 miles and it rained for about 15 minutes of those 22 miles. An Apache helicopter took off from the parking lot and led the bikers at the start. It was so awesome.....(in my third life I would love to be a helicopter pilot - I even dream of flying helicopters! - so I was drooling the whole time that copter was flying overhead).

This is my new little road bike. I just love her - she is white with a white seat and white handlebars. She fits me just perfectly and together we will have many a beautiful ride into the sunset.

This is a picture of our new house that we are buying in Denton. Bill started his job with "Shiver & Associates" in Denton. As hard as we tried to relocate to Dallas or Ft Worth - God had other and better plans for us. To remain here in Denton and become involved in our church and community. So, after Bill started his new job this past week - our next step was to find a house, which God graciously led us to.

It also backs up to a golfcourse.

Has an open kitchen and den area.

A living room (please note - this is not our furniture)

A nice little back and side yard for Kayla

To see the rest of this story - you will just have to come visit us!

Click Click Click

2008-08-23T12:48:00.000-07:00

I love the sound of my new fake fingernails clicking on the computer keys! Makes me feel girly.
Waiting to go to Jay and Viv's for burgs.
Condo vs house - which to buy!!!! THAT is the question.
Ft Worth or Dallas - THAT is another question. God is keeping a secret! :)

Okay Okay Okay!

2008-08-18T12:36:00.000-07:00

Well - I haven't blogged because: A. my computer was messed up B. I didn't have any pictures and still don't C. Not much to say & D. my computer was messed up. Now that the computer is working - I have no excuse. Okay - here is the update:
1. Jonathan came down to visit for a few days - we met Grammy and Pop in Weatherford for lunch and then on to Six Flags. He and I rode every (EVERY) rollercoaster and in the front car! Now, riding a roller coaster when you are in your 20's is a lot more fun than in your 50's! But I did it!!!! I literally thought I would pass out at first - but by the end of the 8th rollercoaster - I was starting to open my eyes.
2. Went to El Paso to see my nephew's wedding. I went a week early - let's just say: "Shopping!" We had dresses, jewelry, and shoes to buy for all the parties! Boy - that was hard to stop once I got back home!!!!
3. Bill is looking for a new job...in the waiting mode.....always a hard period of job searching. We are truly waiting on the Lord and know he will lead us someplace awesome! What an adventure!!!! I am just setting my sail and riding the wind.
4. I cut my hair short and hate it - I feel like such a dork. Bill told me I say this everytime I cut my hair - so why do I do this???? Dork!
5. I got fake fingernails. MaryPat (Bill's sis) and I got them for the wedding and parties. I just love them - they make my jewelry look so much better! Ha! Today they are bright pink. Just wish I could get fake hair (wait - I guess I could).
6. Funny discussion between Bill and Jay: Jay: "Hows the job hunting going Bill?" Bill: "Fine, I've set my traps and now I am just checking them." Jay: "Bill, don't you know you need to put stinky bait in those traps?" Bill: "I know that - I already put stinky bait in my traps - it's called my resume!" LOL LOL LOL That just cracked me up.
7. Kayla is doing so good. Really bonded with Bill while I was in El Paso. Infact, he called me the day before he was to leave and right before he took her to the kennel. He was crying like a little bitty girly girl saying that he didn't want to leave her but wanted to bring her with him... Whaaaaa.... Whaaaa..... Whaaaaaa! (LOL - not really - I just like to tease him).
8. I found out that my ex-neighbor in Columbia googled me (trying to contact me) and found my blogsite! I didn't know you could do that! Hi Dax!
That's about it for now.
I need to do pictures.........

Off the top of my head

2008-07-16T07:31:00.000-07:00

Bill keeps telling me I need to update my blog. Since moving all our stuff (what was left of it) down to Denton from Columbia - I just haven't had any thoughts to jot. BUT - I CAN give a little update:

1. The Move - quick synopsis -
- movers didn't show - had to get friends to help
- not enough room on the truck - had to get another one (thank goodness we flew in)
- had two HUGE loads of trash and Salvation Army donations (had to pay someone $200 to haul everything away!!!!!! - took them 3 trips)
- had to go out of our way to retrieve our treadmill and Bill's bike that had been taken and hauled off to another town - ok - just call it stolen.
- No room in the UHaul going to Denton to bring treadmill - gave it to a family friend in Springfield.
- saw a sting operation on the highway (6 cars infront of us) police with rifles and guns drawn on this one car!!!!
-Made a total of 5 stops on the trip back home dropping off stuff to family.
- We did all this in 2 days!!!!! Ugghhh!!!!

2. There is a roach in my microwave that walks around the digital clock. I bang on it to make it fall so I don't have to be grossed out about it. How did it get in there?

3. Kayla's white cell count is now normal. Yeah! She is feeling and looking so much better.

4. I just read The Shack. It goes right in line with my bible study - Experiencing God. One thing that stuck out from the book (and there were A LOT of things) is how God is in the present. We can look at the past and learn from it, and look at the future and plan for it....but God is not there. When we look at the future...we are not seeing God. God is in the Present. Walking, living, loving us NOW - HERE! Wow! I love that!!!!!!

5. Bill has another sortof interview/lunch with another architectural firm in Dallas this Friday. This was a total surprise. I am going with him down to Dallas and will hang out at Northpark. Yeah! The company is just off Central (I-75) right by there.

6. I cut my hair short....maybe too short. Hmmm! Am not getting any comments from anybody. Hmmmm.

Patton Reunion

2008-06-23T12:50:00.000-07:00

Bill and I went to his family's "mini" reunion. This was the family on his mother's side - the "Pattons". Everyone in the picture are cousins.....with Aunt Betty sitting down. It was great being with them and getting caught up on everyone. I think the last time we saw them was 15 years ago!!!! Too long! The guy on the far left - David Patton - was Jay's English teacher in highschool at Lake Highlands!!!!! What a co-winkie dink!

Singing with Vibrato

2008-06-16T20:06:00.001-07:00

My husband is sooo funny! We were driving along (I was driving) with the radio on....Bill was singing singing singing. I turned to look at him and he said, "Boy I am singing good....I have great vibrato!" I said, "Honey, you don't have vibrato, I am driving over a bumpy road with ruts." He very calmly replied, "Well, every singer has their 'zone' that they sing well in, I guess mine is the 'construction zone'! LOL

Best of Fort Worth - City Magazine

2008-06-15T18:47:00.000-07:00

Bill and I picked up the June 2008 Forth Worth City Magazine

- it was featuring the 8th Annual Best of Fort Worth.

On the "Best Off the Wall" section......

look who they listed as "Best Homegrown Band"!!!!

Green River Ordinance

The magazine is now on the news stand!

Living on Potentials

2008-06-10T06:18:00.000-07:00

Wow - Bill and I are living in a world of "potentials" right now....

1. In the middle of negotiations for a contract on our house in Columbia -

2. Job interview in Ft Worth this Friday

3. Pre -job interview in Dallas last week

We've been learning to pray about situations, and then sit back and watch for the circumstances that occur around our request. Will be exciting to see how God shapes these.

My House IS My Mission Field

2008-06-02T10:38:00.000-07:00

I was taking a walk this a.m. with God and He decided to answer an old question that I have been asking. That is "I so desire to have a place to call "Home", to feel that I belong and establish my roots. When and where will that finally happen?" Wow - and what an answer He revealed.

He said, "Molly, you have always been at home with me and your roots are established in the love of Christ. He is your vine that sustains you - and you, as the branch, shall bear much fruit. Molly, your mssion field IS your home."

I suddenly realized (through my Holy peep - gangsta for Holy Spirit) that I am CURRENTLY in my mission field....here in Denton. I may have a temporary or permanent lodging - but a Home in Christ. Bill and I have moved from city to city (or mission to mission) - to different fields of service - and it is so exciting to wonder where our next mission will take us.

For those so blessed to have a home that will be or has been permanent for years....to them and their mission field comes the blessings that they can give to those who have newly arrived in the area. The sense of welcome and belonging. Also, the relationships formed and deepened by being in the same place for extended periods of time....the support and encouragement that can be given to eachother, as well as the development of Christ's body in the area.

Thanks God for this long awaited answer of "Where is my home?"

Who's House is This Anyway?

2008-06-01T19:21:00.000-07:00

When we went up to Columbia, MO to see the boys over Memorial weekend, we decided to take Kayla with us. One of my concerns was how Kelly and Kayla would get along. Kelly is happy go lucky, play with me kind of princess dog. Kayla is a leave me alone - I am the princess of the universe kind of dog. What would it be like to have 2 princess dogs in the house at the same time. This picture says it all - although Kelly let Kayla lay on her bed....Kelly had the REAL deal - She got her Master's Bed..where she could look down on all who graced her presence.

Strands of Spaghetti

2008-05-29T12:06:00.000-07:00

We have all experienced racing thoughts - all jumbled, entertangled and just a mess! I was debilitated by this fine food fascination and decided to see what these "strands of spaghetti" represented.

Strand 1: We were in Columbia, MO over Memorial Day seeing the boys and packing some of our "stuff" into boxes. Being sad that our house hasn't sold yet - we were told by our realtor - "Oh, your house has been the "bridesmaid" several times. :( I think our house deserves to be the blushing bride!

Strand 2: Will is moving to Springfield, MO at the end of July to join his best friend - Joel. They will be living in a loft outside downtown for a year - and then hopefully move to Austin next year. He is currently holding down a 2nd job at Starbucks (which he absolutely loves) - so will work at Starbucks in Springfield and get another job at a salon.

Strand 3: We got Jonathan's stuff moved down to Springfield for his apt. He has it stored at a friends until he can get it moved into his apt. Yea! His first apt - remember when?

Strand 4: We have just about decided that if our poor bridesmaid of a house doesn't sell by the end of July - we are going to let some family friends rent it (they have already expressed that desire) and then try again next year.

Strand 5: I am at peace with the house not selling. Bill and I fully want God's will to work through this. He is our Provider and through the Holy Spirit - will lead us where we should live.

Strand 6: Bill currently has several job leads in the works. Any of these jobs could lead us to live in Ft Worth, Dallas or Austin. (Our first choice is Ft Worth - we are wondering what God's first choice is!!! - all very exciting)

Strand 7: I am truly beginning to understand how important intercessory prayer is. Amazing!

Strand 8: Bill and I are taking a class called "Experiencing God" - by Henry Blackaby. Oh My! I seem to have what I think a relationship with God all backwards. I am learning to just realize how much He loves me (and this I know) and that this should be first and foremost. Through this amazing love - all things will take place. Through Experiencing Him - I will have a closer relationship with Him that He has called me to.

Strand 9: My doggie is so cute - sound asleep at my feet.....which is nothing unusual.

Strand 10: My husband is even cuter....such a soft heart.

Strand 11: Did you know that at Starbucks - they make their pastry/desserts to go specifically with a certain coffee? There are some coffees that taste horrible with a certain dessert - but paired with the right one...oh so sweet!!!! Amazing!

Strand 12: This is about as far into the spaghetti bowel that I can see......the rest is just too deep!

Kayla's new bed

2008-05-22T13:24:00.000-07:00

Sweet little Kayla got a new bed! Oh my - she loves it so!!!! As soon as her little head hits that sheep skin...she just closes her eyes and goes off to snooze land. Such a spoiled little girl.

Update on her health....remember we were trying to figure out what was wrong with her system? Well, she has a very low white blood cell count as a result of a tick bite she received before we got her. This accounts for her lethargic behavior. So we are boosting that up through meds and she is on her way to being a healthy, happy camper! (and yes, this is what she looks like pretty much all day long!)

Screaming at the Pool

2008-05-19T19:34:00.000-07:00

Ok - so Bill and I have been woken up more nights lately by a group of (what we think are) highschool kids that are coming to the apartment's pool between 2 - 4am! They are bringing glass bottles, girls screaming, gate banging!!! Errrrggghh! So Bill has talked to management (as well as others) to complain and to ask them to moniter the pool.

Yesterday we were out by the pool (this was a Sunday) along with a bunch of college kids in different groups....girls sunbathing together, a few guys chilling in the pool and another group clowning around. Then, this group of kids come (can't be sure its the same highschoolers) and they are hanging by the hot tub and start carting in bottled beer. I am on our cellphone talking to a friend when one of the girls drops a beer bottle and it breaks! I don't know - something just snapped and I told my caller to hold on and then across the pool (they are opposite me) I yell at them without EVEN thinking - "Hey! You aren't supposed to bring glass into the pool area....that is EXACTLY the reason why!!!!" A pin could drop - no one said a word - so I went back to talking on the cellphone.

Did I just do that? Sweet me who always tries to think of the right words in a conflict situation so that it comes out a win win for everyone? I tried not to think about what I just did and went back to talking on my cellphone. I do have to say, a couple of people came over to tell me thank you. Maybe I needed to be a mom out there for a moment. It made me think of Jesus when he went into the temple and got mad and just turned all the tables over! Did he feel bad afterward? HECK NO! So - I just meditated on that and layed it to rest.

You know....those kids haven't been back at night since that incidence. hmmm...

Singing Lessons?

2008-05-09T15:31:00.001-07:00

Ok - so I was doing my volunteer work at the church this morning (I work every Friday morning - love it!).....we have a new music director and he asked to have a meeting with me at 10am! My first thought - "Uh Oh!"

So I prayed for an open mind...is he going to ask me to sing in the choir? Does he just need help filing? Does he want me to lead the bell choir? God was saying, "Molly - keep an open mind....I've got your back covered!" So, I went into his office and he had the biggest smile on his face and he said, "Come over here to the piano - I am going to lock the door so no one disturbs us - and I am going to teach you to sing!" LOL LOL LOL He was so enthusiastic about it...he said he wasn't asking me to join the choir, nothing! He wants to and loves to teach people to sing (btw - he is a professional opera singer). So, I thought - "Molly, God said to have an open mind and that he would cover your back." Ok - I put a big smile on my heart and face and dove in head first!

He asked me to sing chords: "yah yah yah yah yah" (that was a chord if you couldn't tell)..... So I did - and right away he stopped me to say that I was singing "Yaw" not "Yah"! ??????? He stated that lots of people in Texas have this problem. So we spent 15 minutes trying to hear the difference between "Yaw" and "Yah". He had me think of the British pronunciation of "Fah....ther" and keep that in mind. Well, I did and I STILL couldn't tell the difference. So he said - it's also how you hold your mouth. To say "Yaw" your mouth is opened wide, to say "Yah" you open your mouth like a column (WHAT?) So I did and I STILL couldn't tell the difference. Every once in a whil - he would yell - That's It! You did it! (I still couldn't tell the difference). Oh well - I have through August to work on this.

What will happen next week? Who knows....although I have to say - I have been practicing my Yaws and Yahs.......but I still can't tell the difference. So I am either practicing it wrong or right. I'll find out next Friday.

My Sweetheart

2008-05-08T07:49:00.000-07:00

Oh my goodness! I was on the computer and we have this small screen that continues to roll through all the pictures we have stored in the computer. This picture was there when I logged on! What memories!

This pictures was taken of me and my sweetheart when we were just friends and attended my roommate's ADPi sorority dance. That night was also the first time that Bill kissed me! (we were 20 years old in this picture)

I know Bill reads my blogs - so this is for you hon! I love you so much and my heart continues to be swept away by the boy in the picture. :)

Jazzercise - Would have been fun!

2008-05-06T06:28:00.000-07:00

I remember when the exercise craze started to rock this world. Jane Fonda was the first that set this "aerobic" craze into motion. I had just had Will (1983) and wanted to get back into shape. I bought her exercise album that came with a little handbook. Yes, that's right - no video to follow along. I would wake up very early - put the album on and diligently work out with Jane Fonda. Nothing to watch - just to listen to....and I absolutely loved it.

Then came joining the aerobics class at the "Nautilus Center". Loved that as well. Hopping around, doing stretches, crunches, and sweating profusely. It took me just days to feel the result.

Yesterday I checked out a Jazzercise DVD from the library. Our door to our fitness center is broken and no one can get in. I love my fitness center...the elipitical, treadmill and TV. So, I thought I would try jazzercise. Something about dancing and sweating just attracts me. Yes, I have the yoga tape and pilates tape...but I was ready for some Salsa moves and a little hip action. So this morning I popped it in and made it about halfway through the tape before having to turn it off. Yes, I was sweating and yes, I kept imagining I looked like the picture to the right (until I glanced into the mirror on our wall and saw reality). But it was the pain in my knees that made me stop. All that jumping and bouncing played havoc on my joints.

I guess I've reached the age where I have to limit what type of exercise I can do (or even want to do). Weird....where once I could do just about anything and get results...now, its all about doing what I can ....for my health! LOL Back to pilates, yoga and the elliptical (whenever they fix the door!)

What did you do this weekend?

2008-05-04T16:12:00.000-07:00

Well.....Bill and I had a very nice and relaxing weekend.
1. Friday night watched "Fractured" and had horderve (sp) night.
2. Saturday went to Ft Worth and took Julia out for lunch. So fun. Kayla came along with us and was such a good girl. Rides great in the car.
3. Saturday night went out to see "Iron Man" - really liked it. Had popcorn and a full bag (small) of M&M's for dinner.
4. Church service led by the youth - wonderful wonderful! Great Sunday school studying the Holy Spirit. Right on target.
5. Went out to eat - had to go to 3 different places before we found one opened. Still full from lunch.
6. Layed by the pool all afternoon - slathered in sunscreen.
7. Went grocery shopping - starting getting grouchy.
8. Still full from lunch - will probably have cereal for dinner.....tired and grouchy still.
9. Updating my blog - my mind going numb from being tired and grouchy.
10. Bill being so sweet to my grouchiness......I think the sun just drained me and I am tired from not eating right (remember - popcorn and M&Ms for dinner?)
11. Can't think of anything else to blog. Will veg the rest of the evening.

Anxious VS Excited

2008-05-01T07:12:00.000-07:00

It has suddently occured to me that the "feelings" of anxiousness and excitement feel exactly the same. That tingly sensation in your stomach, feelings of fear, unsuredness. I also think that I get them confused at times. The feelings of "anxiousness" tends to creep in when I want to take control of a situation.....the feelings of "excitement" creep in when I allow God to control the situation. And, all too often, the anxious feelings tend to overule the excitement feelings.

So, that is what I am going to start practicing on.....rather than feel anxious about a situation....I am going to consciously practice realizing that the Holy Spirit is taking this situation and and bringing about the good. God can handle any and everything so much better than me. So why not be excited to see how He is going to solve the riddle, set things in motion, take care of a situation and be excited about it! (I have a feeling that I am going to contiually need a lot of practice on this!)

Just a Weekend

2008-04-27T19:26:00.000-07:00

1. Kayla is back to being "a dog"! Yeah! After a week of prednisone, antibiotics and "special dog food" - Kayla's poops are back to normal and she is acting so happy. I feel that I am the guru of dog poop now....consistancy, color, frequency...you name it - I know the poop! Now, we wait to see how she does after she is off all meds.

2. This is a picture of where Kayla likes to be while I am cooking in our tiny kitchen. If I am in there for any bit of time - she will settle down to lay infront of the sink. If you have seen how TINY our kitchen is - you know that I am straddling her while cooking.

3. Bill and I went to the Denton's jazz & arts festival. I have come to realize that once you go to a "festival" - you've seen them all. Pottery, silver/stone jewelry, tie dyed shirts, wood work, paintings, little fairytale outfits for girls, etc......they are all there. BUT - it is wonderful just being out and walking around with everyone.

4. Went to Comanche to see the parents. They look so good and mom and Bill worked on geneology stuff. Dad and I visited about everything - twice! Took Kayla - got to meet the parents. She was very well behaved and made a good impression on mom. She now has permission to come back and spend the weekend.

5. Ate too much all weekend - but it was good! Monday - back to the gym (how many times have I heard that!)

Poor Kayla - IBS

2008-04-22T11:17:00.000-07:00

No - IBS isn't Kayla's temperament from Meyers Briggs. We think that she has irritable bowel syndrome - or - inflammatory bowel disease. :( Went to the vet - she has lost 6 lbs....feeling lethargic and when we walk - she walks...r..e..a..l.....s...l...o...w...... ! We have her on an antibiotic, prednisone and some vet special food $$$$. Hopefull we will see some results in the next few days that she is healing. Poor baby!

Tagged by 6 little words

2008-04-20T14:41:00.000-07:00

What a hard thing to do!!! A 6 word memoir!!

Faithful: I am faithful in my secular and spiritual life - as well as faithful to continue growth.

Patient: It is through patience that I have been able to experience many wonderful things in life (ex. watching my sons learn to do things for themselves, waiting on the Lord and seeing His good works, in marriage - growing together through hard times and easy times, etc.)

Positive: Many have said this of me - maybe I just don't like the feeling of the opposite.

Thinker: What good is one level of thought when you can take it to several different levels. In otherwords - I think too much!

Tradition: I just love traditions! and - making up new ones every year - even if we forget them the next year.

Adventurous: To "experience" all aspects of life and what it has to offer.

Whew!

Weekend Events

2008-04-20T14:25:00.000-07:00

A few pics of what we did this weekend. Bill went to KC and met with Jonathan to attend the Kansas City Brigade arena football game. I stayed behind and helped out with the greyhound rescue association's meet and greet.

Tailgating before the game!

Is Jonathan tall or are the cheerleaders short?

Cute greyhound faces - you got to love them!

Greyhound puppy - 5 months old.

Group shot...Never could get a great shot of all the greyhounds... my camera shutter was just too slow.

New Header

2008-04-14T13:52:00.000-07:00

Sarah turned me on to this website to create my new header. I just love it - could spend all day playing on this website. Thanks Sarah!

Sedated Kayla

2008-04-10T10:15:00.000-07:00

With the series of thunderstorms coming through and Kayla's thunder phobia....I tried a homeopathic drug.....it is supposed to be anti-anxiety...to help her through the thunderstorm. I gave it to her for the first round of thunderstorms the other night...and it didn't seem to work. She was trying to climb on top of the bathroom counter! Bill finally had to sleep in the other room.

So - expecting more thunderstorms last night - I went to the vet and he gave me a mild sedative for her. He said to give one tablet and if it doesn't work...give her another 1/2 tablet. So, I went home and researched this drug and how greyhounds handle it. One person wrote that a greyhound's metabolism is a lot different from other dogs (since they don't have a lot of fat) and the amount you give to a cat is all you have to give a greyhound.

So - I gave her 1/2 tablet instead of a whole one just to see how the effects were on her. WOW! Poor thing - she was TOTALLY sedated. When and IF she tried to stand or walk - she was like a VERY DRUNK dog! Poor thing...she could barely move! I gave it to her at 6:30pm and when the storms FINALLY came through at 2:30am - she was still under the influence (although by this time...she could walk around much better...just still really groggy).

Needless to say - next set of storms we get - I'll only give her 1/4 tablet!

The Gospels' Four Perspectives

2008-04-08T10:59:00.000-07:00

I am in a Beth Moore bible study and this was brought up that I had never realized:
In looking at the walls of the tabernacle with the ark of the convenant inside; it's best to quote Beth Moore - "The walls that witnessed the ark of the covenant from four different angles drew a wonderful representation of the Gospels, which witnessed Jesus' life from four different angles. Nothing in Scripture is accidental or coincidental. Just think about it: God chose no less and no more than four Gospels. They were adjoined in sovereignly-ordained order. If you lined the four Gospels around Jesus' life, they would provide a perfect, four-sided perspective forming four embracing walls. Actually, it is one Gospel expressed from four angels. As we combine the four, a perfect room emerges from which to study the life of Christ."

Matthew's theme is Christ as King; Mark's theme is Christ as servant; Luke's theme is Christ as man & John's theme is Christ as God. The audience each Gospel targeted were:
Matthew targeted the Jews - religious people (Christ as King)
Mark targeted Romans - average business people. (Christ as servant)
Luke targeted Greeks - philosophers (Christ as man)
John targeted all of the above (Christ as God).

Through the Gospels all audiences could find launguages they understood.....through them we witness our Saviour's life from four different ground-level perspectives.

Pretty cool!

Living a Calm Life

2008-04-06T14:27:00.001-07:00

Well - after the cruise....life doesn't seem to be very exciting at the moment. Experienced the vacation let down....but now I am back on the upswing.

Today we put Kayla in the jeep and cruised up to Lake Ray Roberts to check out the camping and beach situation. Had to pay $5 to get into the State Park - NOT - so we didn't get to see the park...but it looks really nice. Also checked out the marina and had discussions of what type of boat we would get. Finally settled on a small houseboat - that way we can go out into the lake, fish, swim, cook, spend the night, get out of the sun, etc. Plus - a great way to take people out with us! Hmmm..........just dreaming.

I have volunteered to lead our Sunday School class on a study of the Holy Spirit. Have a wonderful book to use that was originally recommended by my brother John - "The Helper" by Catherine Marshall. Also - I have volunteered to man the church phones on Friday mornings. So, I am little by little starting to get more involved at the church.

House still on the market in Columbia......

Cruising in '08

2008-03-30T19:18:00.001-07:00

Bill and I just got back from our cruise that we had been planning and paying for the last 1 1/2 years! We were going with two other couples and their kids (what started as a vacation for adults only - turned out to include the other two couples kids - a total of 2 freshmen in college and 1 junior in highschool. Poor Will and Jonathan still didn't get invited.)

Early in the morning we were to leave (1:30am infact!) the husband of one couple had to be taken to the emergency room for terrible stomach pains. Turns out - his appendix scar caused something to happen to his bowels - long story - and he had to be admitted into the hospital and stay for 4 days!!!!!!! So he and his wife couldn't go!!!! They stayed in Denton and we went ahead and took their son (freshman in college) but were SO SAD to leave the couple behind.

The cruise was everything we imagined and more....the more included Bill doing Karyoke!!!!!!!! We couldn't believe it!!!! We went to Cozumel and Progresso (Yucatan Penninsula). On the sea two days and at port two days. A wonderful experience! I sent select photos through ofoto.com to friends and family - but below are a few to give a taste of our trip.

The First Morning

Karl, Jeanne and Bill

Ryan, Ann, Paul - The Kids!

Captain's Dinner

My favorite picture of us

Snorkeling off the side of the road

Bill - singing Pink Floyd's "Another Brick in the Wall"

Life in the Bathtub

2008-03-18T11:22:00.000-07:00

Once again, the thunderstorms have hit the area and we find Kayla nestling in our bathtub for the duration. I got her up about 6:45am to go do her business outside before the storms hit. Not a moment too soon! At 7:00am they rolled in and Kayla rolled into our bathtub. We got her blanket and foam mat to make her comfortable. She stayed in there until 1pm!

There was a break in the storm and I got her out to eat and go outside again to do her business. She is now in our closet patiently waiting out the storm.

The picture below shows her favorite spot...sitting infront of our front window with her jaw resting on the sill - just watching life pass by (notice her nose scrunched into the screen). Last night I caught her resting her top front teeth on the window sill with her bottom jaw hanging open. Couldn't get to the camera intime! LOL

Nothingness is a cherished state

2008-03-16T20:10:00.000-07:00

After reading Lauren's blog about her weekend and how nice it was....prompted me to relish in my own weekend of nothingness! Friday ended with Bill and I chowing down on our Friday night nacho night and a movie. Nachos - good as usual....movie: Stardust. Such a good fairytale.

Saturday morning we volunteered at the Rescue Greyhound Association's meet and greet. It was held at the Barnes and Noble on Park and Preston. The same volunteers show up at these events with not only the dogs up for adoption - but the owners own dogs as well. Of course we brought Kayla with us. We are starting to get to know some of the volunteers and having something in common (greyhounds) we get a lot of visiting in: (i.e. what color is your greyhound's poop? How do you deal with thunderphobia? To paint their toenails or not paint their toenails. LOL) At this meet and greet, the guy that sales t-shirts, collars, etc on-line is there...so we got Kayla a new collar. Of course....like any girl shopping for a new shirt....we had to ask all the owners - which color, which design, etc looked best on her. It was decided to get a purple and gold design outlined in black. Very pretty on her. She was such a good girl at the event and we adopted out 2 greyhounds (one large male to a family that already had 2 dauchshunds!!!!!!)

Today, after church, we had our grocery shopping date, watched the UT vs Kansas game, went to Target to get travel sized stuff and then to TJ Max for a couple of items. Yes, Bill survived TJ Max.....I tried to make it a quick trip and when we left - he let out a big exhale. I commented that he did very good while in there....and that if I was doing serious shopping - I would not bring him along! He sighed a thankful sigh.

Oh, I'm sorry - you ask, "Molly, why are buying travel sized stuff?" We are heading out on our cruise this Saturday - heading to the Yucatan Penn. (not sure I can correctly spell the whole word) and Cozumel. It's our first cruise and we are going with two other couples. Will post pictures upon our return (of course).

So - that is my nothingness weekend - and it was wonderful.

Tagged by Hayley

2008-03-11T14:57:00.000-07:00

Yeah! Thanks Haley - that looked so fun - I was about to tag myself as you did. So thank you! I feel like a member of Something!

10 Years ago...
We had just moved to Columbia, MO. We were renting a small home and I really didn't like it - no trees, just blah. The school was across the street - so that was cool for Jonathan (11yrs). Will (14 yrs) was in this school that a lot of rural kids went to and never did their homework. I wasn't working - and just had a hard time meeting anyone. This was a very difficult move for me. Took years before finding any friends. Plus - early 40's - you start to cross that bridge trying to accept that you just don't look that hot in a bikini anymore (at least for me).

Things on my to-do list today:
*Bible study - done
*Get a bathingsuit - done (for cruise - yeah!)
*Get black patent kitten heeled sandals - done (you got to love Payless!)
*Walk Kayla - done
*Cook dinner - coconut shrimp (Grammy's recipe) - in process
*Go to library - maybe when Bill comes home

What would I do if I became REALLY loaded: (actually I was thinking of this just the other day!)
*Give $10,000 to each of my nephews and neices (even to their spouses)
*Give $50,000 to each of my siblings and Jon and Will
*Take Grammy and Pop on a cruise to the Panama Canal
*Buy Bill a RangeRover - or Landrover (can't remember which he wants)
*Pay off all debt (of course)
*Give some away
*Laser the hair away on my body!

Three of my bad habits:
*Take conversations to a deeper level than some people want to.
*Pretzel talk (also called spider webbing - beat all around the bush before coming to the point)
*Try new projects...and not finishing.

Five jobs I have had:
*Draftsman at an engineering company - I was the only girl - and - the youngest one! Fun yet challenging - before sexual harrasment - I only stayed 9 months....but liked drafting.
*Executive Secretary at Peat, Marwick, Mithcell (big 8 account firm). I had never been a secretary before - and here I was an executive secretary to the partner-in-charge. I really enjoyed it.
*Nursing assistant on the graveyard shift at a hospital. Too tiring for me on that shift....but I loved drawing blood - and helping people to be more comfortable.
*Spec and Plan girl at University of Missouri - worked with the contractors...bidding jobs - progressed to Office Manager of dept. Loved being there.
*Women's Boutique co-owner. Was a wonderful experience... got some great clothes, traveled, met all sorts of people.

Five things people don't know about me:
*I have a tattoo
*I am very shy
*I like to feel my pulse in my wrist when I get bored or when I am listening to someone go on and on and on about something.
*I got the cartalage of my ear peirced - twice; got my belly button peirced - all have grown shut.
*I've been skydiving - would definitly do again.

Now I tag - Will Morgan!!!!!!!!!

Whew!

2008-03-10T09:18:00.000-07:00

Time to produce a "catch up blog".

I just returned from Columbia, MO where I was for the past week getting our house ready to put on the market. As of this morning (Monday, March 10) we have had 6 showings already! Getting the house ready was truly a testament to our Lord at work. When I got there Sunday evening, I was a bit overwhelmed with all that I needed to do and coordinate. We had painting, carpet cleaning, yard preparation and deep house cleaning arranged to be performed by others...so that part was off my mind. But still, coordinating where and when everyone would arrive - not to be overlapping and getting in eachother's way...was a bit of a dance. Then there was the going through every drawer, cabinet, arranging, moving, lifting, scooting - just getting it in showable condition. We had bags upon bags of stuff going to Goodwill, trash, and even had people going through our trash on the curb to see if there was anything they could take to sell at their flea market booths! LOL

Not only did the Lord provide me with peace of mind to take it room by room, drawer by drawer and not be overwhelmed....He also provided a wonderful miracle for me. At Christmas I hurt my spine (did I blog about this?) and it was still not completely healed. Monday morning I prayed to Jesus to place his wonderful healing hand upon my back to protect it from all the lifting and moving I was going to be doing. For the first couple of days the muscles in my back were sore (nothing that Motrin couldn't handle) - but after 3 days - my spine was completely healed. It has never felt this good since before I hurt it at Christmas! Was this a miracle - you bet it was! I sit here and marvel that we may only but ask through our Lord Jesus Christ and he will provide! :)

Now I need to be provided a manicure!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Also - I had another visit to that talented stylist - Will Morgan! See the results below!!!!! Thanks Will again for being there for me, with me, and just having fun talking and being together......and, my new do!

Valentines - Existing in a Different Orbit

2008-02-21T10:55:00.000-08:00

For Valentines - I told my sweet hubby not to buy me anything.....we have a trip coming up and knew how much he loved me. Well - a couple of days before Valentines Day (I was going to be out of town on the actual day) Bill and I were sitting on the couch watching TV for a bit before we popped in our movie. He kept eyeing me and when I looked at him - he would look away. So, I thought we were playing the "eye" game (where you look at someone - but when they look at you - you look away - and vice versa). Are we the only weirdos that play this game?

So - here we were playing the eye game and laughing at eachother. I got up to put the movie in the VCR and had to lean over to avoid something to put it in the VCR (something was on the floor). All of a sudden I heard Bill say, "You have GOT to be kidding me!!!" I looked at him and then I looked down - and there on the floor - AT MY FEET - was a medium sized bag from Neiman Marcus with a box inside. GIRLS! HOW COULD I NOT SEE A BAG FROM NEIMAN MARCUS!!!?????

That bag was on the floor right in front of the TV! Bill wasn't playing the "eye" game - he kept looking at me to see if I noticed the bag!!!! HOW COULD I NOT NOTICE IT!!!!!! Especially having to LEAN over it to put the movie in the VCR?????

WHAT PLANET AM I FROM?????

New Do

2008-02-20T12:02:00.000-08:00

After seeing Hayley's new hairdo in her blog -
I decided to post a picture of my new do. While in Columbia, MO this past week - I had fun sitting in Will's stylist chair and saying - "Just do what you do best!"
I like the outcome. This picture is with the curls - looks cute just straightened as well.

Thanks Will!

Living In Your Sweet Spot

2008-02-19T08:52:00.000-08:00

I am currently reading this book by Max Lucado - living in your sweet spot. I just took a spiritual gift class at church. I think our gifts change as we grow in wisdom, experience, etc. So, at this point in my life - I wanted to review what I thought my gifts were, what they actually are, and how to use them to glorify God. To be open to God's calling and purpose in an area that I might not be aware of.

This book takes you through a learning process to discover your gifts: what you are good at, your successes, what you enjoy naturally, etc. This sweet spot is the intersection of what you are successful at and what you really enjoy. Oh to find a job, vocation, direction of life that encompasses all that God made you to be and offer.

Thunderstorms and Bathtubs

2008-02-12T11:14:00.001-08:00

We had thunderstorms roll in last night. Last week when this happened - Kayla freaked out and ran and hid in my closet - spending the whole night there. It has become her favorite place to sleep at night now.

Last night another round of storms came through. The closet just wasn't cutting it - so she went into our bathroom and commenced to crawl inside the tub!!!! So - I got her sleeping pad, a blanket and laid it all in the tub - and there she remained the rest of the night!

My Real Age

2008-02-11T08:30:00.000-08:00

I am 51.....My real age is 45.

Find out what your real age is at: http://www.realage.com/homepage.aspx

This website offers wonderful tips, menus, etc etc. Even though we all know how to eat right....we all know we should exercise....we all know that we should get plenty of sleep.....

This webiste offers wonderful encouragement. And, I think that is just what we all need....encouragement. Encouragement to lead and maintain a healthy lifestyle. I just feel better, have more energy....things just seem to fall inplace.

Take the survey.....how old are you?

Sharing tidbits of the day

2008-02-07T16:20:00.000-08:00

MY SO CALLED SCARF

Yeah! I finished this knitting project and just love it. Yes, the pattern is actualy called "My So Called Scarf". Now on to another project - will keep you posted!

Little One Waiting

These are pictures of Kayla when I leave (top pic) and when I return (bottom pic) - cute little eyes looking out for me.

NABISCO UPDATE

Several blogs back....I emailed Nabisco how disappointed I was in one of their products and stated that I would never buy it again. Today I got a coupon to buy a Nabisco product - valued at $3.50! Yeeha!

What's Your Temperament?

2008-02-03T06:04:00.000-08:00

INFP

Idealist: Healer

Molly

Following up on one of my passions (temperaments) - There is a test you can take to find out your temperament. This is based on the The Keirsey Temperament Sorter II® (KTS®-II) - or Personality Test. This test is designed to help individuals discover their personality type based on Dr. David Keirsey's Temperament theory. So what is this theory?

In a quick synopsis (you can read the complete description on the website below if you would like): we might ask, what is this thing called "temperament," and what relation does it have to character and personality? There are two sides to personality, one of which is temperament and the other character. Temperament is a configuration of inclinations, while character is a configuration of habits. Character is disposition, temperament pre-disposition. Thus, for example, foxes are predisposed -- born -- to raid hen houses, beavers to dam up streams, dolphins to affiliate in close-knit schools, and owls to hunt alone in the dark. Each type of creature, unless arrested in its maturation by an unfavorable environment, develops the habit appropriate to its temperament: stealing chickens, building dams, nurturing companions, or hunting at night.

Thus temperament is the inborn form of human nature; character, the emergent form, which develops through the interaction of temperament and environment.

Kiersey goes on to explain that there are 4 temperaments and that the temperament, character and personality work all together - which predisposes us to develop certain attitudes and not others, certain actions and not others. Thus the following 4 temperaments base their self-image as follows:

The Artisan characteristics: graceful action, bold spirit, and adaptability to circumstance

The Idealist characteristics: empathy, benevolence, and authenticity

The Guardian characteristics: reliability, service, and respectability

The Rational characteristics: ingenuity, autonomy, and willpower

These four temperaments can be further subdivided, often referred to as “Character Types”. There are four types of Artisans, four types of Guardians, four types of Idealists, and four types of Rationals.

So - what temperament are you? You can take the test at the link below.

Suggestions for Taking the Sorter: The Sorter consists of 70 questions, each with an A or B option for an answer, and will take 10-15 minutes to complete.
1. Your responses should reflect the “true you”. Sometimes people answer the questions based on qualities that they want to have, or how they feel they must behave in their job or other specific situation. However, that will make the results inaccurate. Just select the answer that best reflects who you are now, and that you are most comfortable with.
2. Choose the option that is most like you, or that you prefer most, even if you find that both answers sound like you or you agree with both.
3. You may skip any question of which you are unsure. If you don’t provide enough responses for the system to calculate a result, you will be prompted to answer a few more questions.
4. Because this is an inventory of who you are, there are no right or wrong answers. There are also no right or wrong personality types, in fact, we have found over the years that people tend to feel very proud of their own type, once they have gained this insight and understanding

Post your answer!

Have fun:

Test: http://www.humanmetrics.com/cgi-win/JTypes2.asp

(after taking the test - click on the link that says: type description by D.Keirsey to get the description of your temperament)

Kiersey Home page: http://keirsey.com/default.aspx

Passions

2008-01-28T17:26:00.000-08:00

I am taking a Spiritual Gifts class at church....good way to meet more people. I have come to realize that as we become older, learn more, gain experience...that our spiritual gifts also change.

One of the questions was - what is your passion? It's easy to rattle off what my passions have been my whole life......but truly, what are they now?

God

my family

individual temperaments

exploring

trying new things

doing what I can to make someone feel comfortable

experiencing

OK Peeps - WHAT ARE YOUR PASSIONS!

Tastebuds Tired of Disappointment

2008-01-26T07:41:00.000-08:00

Nutter Butter Creme Patties (a wafer type cookie by Nabisco) has been one of my many favorite indulgences for the past 20 years. This is a desert that I can only get every once in a while - because I tend to binge every time! Well, over the last couple of years - it seems that Nabisco has changed the ingredients......maybe to save on cost? I have been experiencing this in many itmes....things getting smaller (take the bagel for example) or tasting a slight change in ingredients. I commend companies for trying to save on cost. But when it came to my tastebud indulgences - I don't want to compromise the taste!

Last night I bought my last package of Nutter Butter Creme Patties....once again, I was disappointed in the taste. Bill asked me, "Then why did you eat so much of it?" LOL I guess I was hoping that with each new bite - I would once again experience that creamy peanut buttery taste I so loved. Not so. This morning I threw out the remaining cookie wafers and promptly sat down and wrote an email to Nabisco explaining my experience. Will they listen to me? Who knows.....I just felt better doing it. Someone needs to tell them!

Now - what to do to indulge my tastebuds. Well.....my next most favorite indulgence for tastebuds is Fruit Loops! Yes, I like to pour them in a bowl or glass and eat them dry. Again, I can't keep a box in the house - because I will tend to gorge....just can't control myself.

So, next time I feel the indulgence and am ready for the repurcussions of gorging.......I will turn towards Fruit Loops. Hopefully, they won't disappoint!

Beauty and Pain - the sequel

2008-01-23T06:55:00.000-08:00

As if the pain of pulling individual hairs from my legs wasn't enough.....I took my "Braun Silk-epil" a step further and thought I would try it on my armpits!! I read several reviews from girls that did just that. Some couldn't handle the pain and quit - others worked through the pain and are reaping the rewards. So - ever challenging that the experience seemed.....I gave it a go.

YOWZA!!!!!!!!!

BOY - Did that hurt! BUT - I was bound and determined to have smooth armpits that I didn't have to shave. Plus - the other rewards of having the hair grow back finer was so tempting.....I just HAD to work through it. If those other girls could do it - so could I!!!!

My mantra during this session became...."I've gone through the pain of braces, I've had two kids for crying out loud! Work through the pain....go to your happy place..... you CAN and WILL do this!"

By the end of the session - for both armpits....I felt that I had truly accomplished a tremendous feat. I was so proud of myself and the suffering I experience and conquered - I poured a glass of wine to celebrate after showing Bill BOTH smooth armpits for him to admire! And admire he did.....with a look of - Why!

Results:

True to the testimonies.......I worked on my armpits again yesterday (after several weeks of non-shaving) and I have to admit - it didn't hurt half as much this time around and the hairs were a little finer (or again, not as stubbly). It was still kind of painful - but ....something I easily worked through. Once again.....I get to experience several weeks of non-shaving of the armpits!!!! OOO La La........

My Picks for Good Reads

2008-01-21T07:18:00.000-08:00

The Red Tent by Anita Diamant

(about Dinah, a silent character in the book of Genesis)

The Secret Life of Bees by Sue Kidd

Water for Elephants by Sara Gruen

Winter Dance: The Fine Madness of Running the Iditarod by Gary Paulsen

(Nonfiction - truly very funny)

Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini

Faith Based Reads

The Purpose Driven Life by Rick Warren

The Helper by Catherine Marshall

(about the Holy Spirit)

Love & Respect: The Love She Most Desires; The Respect He Desperately Needs

by Emerson Eggerichs

(I highly recommend the conference - if can't attend - read the book definitely)

Andrew Murray on Prayer by Andrew Murray

(very thick book - but a life changing study on Prayer and our relationship with God)

Torture for comfort and beauty?

2008-01-21T06:08:00.000-08:00

For Christmas I requested (yes, requested) an epilator.

According to the Webster Dictionary:

ep·i·late /ˈɛpəˌleɪt/ –verb (used with object), -lat·ed, -lat·ing.
to remove (hair) from by means of physical, chemical, or radiological agents; depilate.

Yes - I requested a machine that would remove the hair on my legs by "pulling it out one hair at a time" !!!!! What was I thinking??????

Years ago (could it be 20?) an "Epilady" thing came out for hair removal. It was basically stainless steel coils that would spin - the object of which it would catch the individual hairs on your leg and pull them out. Thus - you wouldn't have to shave your legs for a month. Well - I could work through the pain....but it was a pain to use.

I came across an article of how this process had been improved and it introduced a new epilator by Braun. So, after researching and reading all the reviews - this is what I learned. That those brave souls using this new epilator (Braun Silk-epil ...even sounds better) came away with high reviews. They stated that it did hurt the first time...but like pucking your eyebrows.. you get used to the pain and it hurts less each time. The hairs, when they grow back, grow back a little thinner each time. Also - the need to not have to do it again for 4 weeks was a big plus. They also stated that this particular contraption was a lot easier to use than the old one (20 years ago) and did a much better job.

So - ever on the prowl for new things to improve my comfort for beauty - I requested it and Santa delivered. Looking at the machine - it was pretty scary - it has a wheel with many many little metal gizmos that act as tweezers. As the wheel spins (super fast) - these little tweezers grab the hairs on your leg and pulls them out. It even has an attachment of spinning plastic spikes that stimulate the skin so it won't notice when the hairs are being pulled out (believe me - every hair noticed being pulled out). So - I got into the bathroom, shut the door, turned on the machine and used the head attachment for "expert epilator user" (why beat around the bush - go for the gusto!!!).

Result: - Yes, it hurt at first and was a shock to the system feeling your hairs being pulled out. But, I have to admit - I got used to it (or rather knew what to expect) and I found myself looking for little hairs that I missed (this contraption has a little light to see those little hairs you miss). Truley - it hurt so good - knowing in the back of my mind that I wouldn't have to shave my legs for weeks. Now, the first time I used it was at Christmas - I had to do a retouch a week later because hairs grow at different speeds.....but the touch up didn't take long at all. Then about 4 weeks after Christmas - I had to do it again. It was no big deal. The reviews were correct - the hairs were a little finer (or maybe just not stubby so they seemed finer) and it didn't hurt quit like the first time.

What do I think? Definitely worth it. For me and the girls in my family - with course hair - and that I shave my legs every day - worth it. It is just so wonderful to jump in the shower and not have to shave my legs every day. I am at the point now that I almost look forward to when I can epilate my legs again. Making those little hairs grow back finer and finer each time. Again, there is some touch up that I do when little strays grow back.....but I don't even feel them growing back (because they aren't stubbles) and have to look for them. Ahhhhhhhhh!

So, I rate this 5 stars.........

The attachment at the top right is with the little plastic spikes
Notice the silver tweezers on the rotating head

Kayla and Friends

2008-01-20T16:46:00.000-08:00

We took Kayla out to a co-worker of Bill's who had 3 greyhounds. They lived in the country and had a big fenced yard. This gave us an opportunity to watch her run and play with the other greyhounds. (although I don't think they really know how to play - just race!) They are such sociable animals - they all bonded rather quickly.

The reason they all have muzzels on - when racing - they use the muzzles for photo finishes. Also, the greyhounds are so competitive - they tend to nip at eachother while racing if they get bumped into. Their skin is so thin, it can easily tear....that's why lots of greyhounds have scars when you get them (Kayla has a couple on her hip). So, while they were playing and chasing the "lure" we kept the muzzles on.

It was just amazing watching them all run in short bursts......She had the best time!!!!

Kayla (fawn colored) with her 3 new friends

Chasing the lure

Not into Jammies

2008-01-17T14:07:00.000-08:00

When researching greyhounds....they all comment that because they have no fat on their bodies and thin skin....that if you are cold - they are cold. There are lots of coats, sweaters and "jammies" for greyhounds out there. So, I thought I would create Kayla her own "jammie" to wear out of one of my old large T-shirts I wear to bed.

So - I put it on her and tied a knot on the back so it would fit her. I thought it looked rather doable - but she had no clue what I had done to her! She just stood there looking at me and not moving. I just died laughing! I went off doing my own thing and every time I came back - she had not moved one iota! She just stood there!!!!! I was told when greyhounds are nervous - they become like statues........well, she was being a great statue. I just had to grab a few shots of her.

When I took the T-shirt off of her - she hightailed it to her crate and got in (her comfort zone)......she is still in there! Did I just set our "bonding" back a couple of days?

Poor pitiful girl

She hasn't moved an inch

Still hasn't moved

Begging me to take it off

A New Way of Communication

2008-01-15T11:25:00.000-08:00

This is my first post on my first blog!
It just amazes me the ways of communicating.

Bill and I are now in Denton, TX -
Our boys, Will and Jon, are still in Missouri - working and going to college. Will post more on them later.

How will I use this blog? I don't know....but will venture as often as possible to post things - and be surprised myself what they are.

So - today I will share our new addition to the family - KAYLA!
She is a 5 1/2 year old retired racing greyhound. I was debating whether to get a greyhound or dachshund - what a difference! In the end, my heart always melted around the greyhounds. I did an over abundance of research (as Bill will atest to) and found the following regarding greyhounds:
They don't bark,
Are already crate trained (they growup in crates)
Very intellegent (She is already housebroken on day 2!)
Known as 45mph couch potatoes (you got that right!)
They truly bond with their family - following them everywhere,
Already leash trained
Very sweet natured
Very sociable to animals and people already
Make great apt pets (good - since we are in an apt for now!)
Even though they are considered large, they don't take up much room
Like to lean against you (and she really does)
Did I say - very sweet?

It is interesting - because they are raised on the race track in crates - they are aliens to a household and many other things. For instance, we live on the second floor - so we had to teach her how to climb the stairs!!!! By day 2 she was doing just fine....still takes it pretty slow. She also had never seen a mirror or glass with her reflection. Riding in a car, the smells of cooking, etc. It's been fun introducing her to and teaching all these new things. After she has bonded with us and trusts us - we will need to teach her how to play (can you believe that she doesn't know how to play?). Her personality should start emerging within the next several months. It will be fun to witness.