Let's Catch up

It has been a few days since I blogged- I try to do it more often but this past week was crazy- I had to help Marcus with school work- get ready for my mom to come up- ready for my conference Friday and Saturday- read for Sunday School- work stuff was crazy Thursday and Friday

Marcus came home after getting Student of the week Wednesday- Thursday he hit someone- but then Friday he redeemed himself and did excellent - even behaved for mom that Friday night while I was at my conference- I came home - it was only in Clearwater- I was able to listen to the BULLS came- most of the way home- and yes in fact that beat WVU- go bulls- campus this coming week should be crazy. For those of you who may not know I graduated from USF in 2002 with a Bachelors in Biology and 2 years later began working there - I love what I do and it is so rewarding. I will tell you about it if you ask.

So this week should be calm- we have our first soccer practice Thursday night - he is playing for 8 weeks as well as doing bible quiz-

Ths soccer league is through Idlewild Baptist- one night a week practice - 1/2 hour long- games are Saturday and hour long (minus the ones for JBQ) at it goes through the end of November- at practice they do devotions and teach on being a Champion for God. There is no score- no winning or losing team just fun and showing God's love while getting to know him better.

Committed -- "Commit your way to the Lord, trust also in Him, and he will do it." Psalm 37:5

Heart -- "But the things that proceed out of the mouth come form the heart, and those defile a man." Matthew 15:18

Attitude -- "As for you, my son Solomon, know the god of your fathers, and serve Him with a whole heart and a willing mind; for the Lord searches all hearts, and understands every intention of the thoughts. If you seek Him, He will let you find Him; but if you forsake Him, He will rejct you forever." 1 Chronicles 28:9

Motivation -- "A worker's appetitie works for him, for his hunger urges him on." Proverb 16:26

Priority -- "Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a workman who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth." 2 Timothy 2:15

Integrity -- "The integrity of the upright wil guide them, but the crookedness of the treacherous will destroy them." Proverbs 11:3

Obedience -- "This book of the law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do according to all that is written in it: for then you willmake your way properous and then you will have success." Joshua 1:8

Needs -- "And my God will supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus." Phil 4:19

If you would like to come to his first game it is October 6th at 10 am at Idlewild we would love for anyone to come see him play. I will blog the schedule in the next few days- I know he would love it if some of you were able to come see him play.

We have a celebrity in the family

I did not know it til today- I found out the most exciting news ever- We the Danielson's have a celebrity in our family- I did not even know it- I knew it was possible - and now I know it is true

Who is it you ask .......



Marcus John Danielson- He was named Student of the Week at Lake Myrtle Elementary School- I am so Proud!

Who is your daddy?

A seminary professor was vacationing with his wife in Gatlinburg , TN. One morning, they were eating breakfast at a little restaurant, hoping to enjoy a quiet, family meal. While they were waiting for their food, they noticed a distinguished looking, white-haired man moving from table to table, visiting with the guests. The professor leaned over and whispered to his wife, "I hope he doesn't come over here." But sure enough, the man did come over to their table."Where are you folks from?" he asked in a friendly voice
" Oklahoma ," they answered."Great to have you here in Tennessee ," the stranger said. "What do you do for a living?""I teach at a seminary," he replied."Oh, so you teach preachers how to preach, do you? Well, I've got a really great story for you." And with that, the gentleman pulled up a chair and sat down at the table with the couple.The professor groaned and thought to himself, "Great ... Just what I need...another preacher story!"The man started, "See that mountain over there? (pointing out the restaurant window). Not far from the base of that mountain, there was a boy born to an unwed mother. He had a hard time growing up, because every place he went, he was always asked the same question, 'Hey boy, Who's your daddy?' Whether he was at school, in the grocery store or drug store, people would ask the same question, 'Who's your daddy?'He would hide at recess and lunchtime from other students. He would avoid going into stores because that question hurt him so bad. "When he was about 12 years old, a new preacher came to his church. He would always go in late and slip out early to avoid hearing the question, 'Who's your daddy?'
But one day, the new preacher said the benediction so fast he got caught and had to walk out with the crowd.Just about the time he got to the back door, the new preacher, not knowing anything about him, put his hand on his shoulder and asked him, Son, who's your daddy?The whole church got deathly quiet. He could feel every eye in the church looking at him. Now everyone would finally know the answer to the question, 'Who's your daddy?'"This new preacher, though, sensed the situation around him and using discernment that only the Holy Spirit could give, said the following to that scared little boy... "Wait a minute! I know who you are! I see the family resemblance now. You are a child of God."With that he patted the boy on his shoulder and said, "Boy, you've got a great inheritance. Go and claim it.""With that, the boy smiled for the first time in a long time and walked out the door a changed person. He was never the same again. Whenever anybody asked him, 'Who's your Daddy?' he'd just tell them, 'I'm a Child of God.'"The distinguished gentleman got up from the table and said, "Isn't that a great story?"
The professor responded that it really was a great story!As the man turned to leave, he said, "You know, if that new preacher hadn't told me that I was one of God's children, I probably never would have amounted to anything!" And he walked away.The seminary professor and his wife were stunned. He called the waitress over & asked her, "Do you know who that man was -- the one who just left that was sitting at our table?"The waitress grinned and said, "Of course. Everybody here knows him. That's Ben Hooper. He's the former governor of Tennessee !"Someone in your life today needs a reminder that they're one of God's children!"The grass withers and the flowers fall, but the word of God stands forever." ~~IsaiahYOU'RE ONE OF GOD'S CHILDREN!!! HAVE A GREAT DAY!

Perfect 10

I meant to write earlier but I was tired- these 5 am mornings kill me- but I will eventually get use to it-

MARCUS EARNED 10 out of 10 Stars for good choices- I AM SO PROUD!!

Monday Monday - oh its Monday

Today was very busy at work- I was in surgery for 4 hours- we had an endoscopic procedure that we did to take out a gall bladder- it was very interesting.

If you want details on it call me - otherwise I will leave it at that

Marcus had another sticker day at school- yeah- however he did hit someone at the before care with a Wii controller- the kid asked for it 3 times Marcus did not give it to him so the kid pinched him hard ( as Marcus said) and so Marcus hit him with it. Marcus should not even had the Wii controller- you see I was watching him via the video feed they have. it is great

We practiced JBQ tonight and I put the audio in for osmosis when he is asleep - hopefully he will absorb it that way-

Quiet night tonight- I am going to go watch the USF BULLS game from Saturday

USF BULLS ARE IN THE TOP 20 - GO BULLS! BEAT WVU THIS FRIDAY

Maybe I got a little ahead of myself -

Marcus drove me nuts today - simple instructions to ask him to do things turned into a constant battle- ugh- oh nothing like before by any means but ever so frustrating- UGH UGH- I am sure I am not a lone in this

Went out to dinner with the Tobias Family and then came home to watch Facing the Giants- I had watched it at the Back to School Bash for church but wanted to be able to soak it in better. It was good we laughed we cried.

It is late I am tired from working on the house today and I need to go study lots of lessons for tomorrow- from High Schoolers to Preschoolers- then JBQ meeting after church-

Then I think Uncle Adam is taking Marcus out to lunch for his good choices at school this past week. Marcus' choice but he knows nothing about it - cause it is a surprise. SHHHHHHHHHH

No I am not over the top

You may have read yesterday's blog and thought Michele he behaved all week great- kids do behave - yes I do know that but you see when we have struggled for over 2 years (almost as a family) I had him 4 months prior to the official family day. with behaviors and attitudes and back talking and aggression and trusting and all the other stuff- I celebrate this past week as a miracle- a sign of hope- that wow I am making a difference (go ahead all of you who have told me that) I just had to see it for myself- I had to live it through my eyes-

as I said in previous blogs there is a light at the end of the tunnel-

He has been telling me he wants to have a great day- that he is sad with himself when he does not earn all his stars- hey I am thrilled for 9 out of 10 . Is he perfect? who is?

We are still working on things self esteem- using his words more (he does this so much better).

He had a great week but did that mean Saturday morning we were going to follow directions- oh no - we had a rough hour or so- he was tired - so back to bad for a nap- hopefully he has a better attitude- you see the weekends are his for resting- he can go all week then by Thursday and Friday he starts tiring out and by Saturday AM he is a grump - he gets up eats and goes back to rest for a while and usually falls asleep fairly quickly-now this is not every Saturday but today it happened and now he is awake and in a better mood and ready to do chores-

My sister and I grew up with Saturdays as chore day- I thought I would continue the process- he helps take his laundry to the washer- clean his bathroom- yes I make him do it- I did not mess it up- he does a really good job at it- and usually his proud of his accomplishment.

So he is off to do his bathroom so we can put his new shower curtain up surf boards- sports for the bedroom and surfing for the bathroom

It is a MIRACLE a true Miracle

If I could mark the chart- for the days of school - every box under a good day would be marked. It is a miracle- He has been a different child completely different- now Marcus does go through a phase when something is new as a honeymoon phase so we will see how well he does next week- but I am truly happy and so very proud of how well he has done this week at his new school and new before and after care center- he really has done wonderfully.

We went to do errands tonight- I was going to take him to the Softball game but it came a down pour so I headed home.

We had the best time- I was acting all goofy and he was testing me on his spelling words to make sure I knew them- he read a book in the car to me- we laughed our selves silly- one of the best nights I have had with him ever- It was truly a fun time just him and I laughing crazily- he was laughing at my bumble bee and my old woman voice-

Tomorrow is another day and I am so glad I can sleep in - this 5 am stuff is tiring - getting myself up- him up him fed - the dog fed- the cats fed- me fed - yeah right- making sure I have lunch- throw in a load of laundry- do the AM dishes- get a shower - make sure he is what he is suppose to be doing ( he does this very well- I am thankful for that) then on the road by 5:40 am to drop him off so I am at work by 6:30 so I can get him in the afternoon early.

Sleep in Sleep in Saturday yeah

Hey PD - be safe and have fun in Houston

Happy Anniversary

Happy Anniversary Brenda and Adam-

Brenda I do not know how you have tolerated him so long.

Just kidding

Love you both

If you are going through a tough time

I was just rereading some of my blogs over the last few weeks- and I felt it necessary to write if you are going through a rough time to just hold on - there is truly a light at the end of the tunnel- I know there are days where the world feels like it is on your shoulders - I have been there I know- But in reality that is not the case-
Realize you maybe going through something to grow and trust God even more- Find your strength in Him- He is truly amazing- Where would I be without Him-

So hold on hold on hold on- the light is at the end of the tunnel - look for it - it will be there- I know I am starting to see it.

Isn't it Lovely Isn't it Wonderful

I got my car back I got my car back doo doo doo- Marcus had a great day he had a great day ooo lala la My poster is all done it is all done- wha weeeeeee- okay I am singing in my head so sorry

normalcy is coming back okay as normal it gets around here.

laundry and dinner and studying oh my laundry and dinner and studying oh my

Not school work well yes it is -I am teaching Sunday SCHOOL and Jr Jam this Sunday so yes it is like school- I am a teacher so I am in school- Good lessons going on this week - if you read this encourage your high schoolers to be in Sunday School

Before After

I am not sure who was more excited to get our car back Marcus or myself-
if it looks like it is a different color it is not- just the camera and the lighting- the collision place even cleaned the inside - i was very pleased- they were very nice-

I do have to admit when I got in my heart starting pumping faster and my hands were a little tighter on the grip- I was nervous about driving it not that it would fall apart or anything just the last time I drove it - it looked like the before picture all crumpled. Now it is all better and I am happy to have it back - nothing like having what you are use to around.

Light at the end of This Tunnel- by Third Day

This is how I feel-today- I can see the light at the end of the tunnel finally that Marcus and I have been going through- he is different - he is changing

There's a light at the end of this tunnel

There's a light at the end of this tunnel for you

For you

There's a light at the end of this tunnel

Shining bright at the end of this tunnel for you

For you

So keep holding on

Keep holding on

My God is More than Enough - He CAN Supply All my Needs

My God is more than enough He can supply all my needs

He is my El Shaddai He always looks out for me

Jehovah Jirah he is my God all of the earth is His

and the fullness there of He's everything that I needyou can be sure of

Jehovah Jirah he is my God

So why should I worry bout the highs and the lows

the ups and the downs

and by my faith I know

my God is more than enough He can supply all my needs

He is my El Shaddai

he always looks out for Me

Jehovah Jirah he is my God

Okay- "SIGH" Over the weekend I found out in fact the insurance company was going to pay for my rent a car- they switched it over to direct pay. If they did not do that I am not sure where the $ would have come from- yeah one for God for supplying that- it is a true miracle cause Insurance companies work in weird ways- I did call them upset and all- but after that I let God handle it- maybe I should have done that in the first place-

Then I made sure I had enough in the account for my deductible- again being single mom sometimes has its disadvantages - this one I did not fight I just figured they would reimburse me for it later- Yet once again God came through - why do we doubt- today I got the full amount of the deductible in the mail from the insurance company- a true blessing-

Marcus had another good day at school- yeah- although the boy is trying to eat 3 breakfasts - I do not think so. 1st breakfast 5 am 2nd breakfast 7:30 lunch 10:30 - how often does he need to eat?

okay the car was not ready today but more likely tomorrow

Sapphire- we are the Lake Myrtle Turtles -

Marcus is now on the sapphire team with Mrs. S- he had a good day earning 9 out of 10 stars yee haw- I am so proud -not like prideful but proud- like whew- we did it- one day at a time-

As I write this I am so tired and worn out- I just wish all was back to normal routine- the past 2 weeks have been very stressing- and I want a routine of school and work - will write more as we go

The mascot at school is the turtle and the colors are green and white

They have turtles everywhere- Marcus has fish in his classroom and a hermit crab.

They have the morning announcement via tv all done by kids they do the pledge and the motto of the school.

So I left with a hug and a squeeze and hoped for the best.

And may have your attention Marcus earned 9 out of 10 stars - woo hoo- yipee I ay cow patty

He has had great day from start to finish-

Mom well I am a little worn out- over the past few weeks I think it is all catching up to me- my neck is tense- stress will do it to you- I am just plain tired- work- Marcus school- teaching- car wreck- soccer coming soon-

I want my car back - tomorrow I should be getting it back yeah! all shiny and new or close to new

I could hope it looks this good huh-

Monday - a new school new beginning again

If I told you I was not stressed that would not be the truth-
Marcus has a new school day today- he was a little nervous- I am hoping it went well-
I have my car still be repaired and I have a poster to complete for work which makes it difficult to do when lately you have not been there do to one thing or another. so yes slightly- sometimes this is very hard on my own- there are somethings others just can not help with-

There are days where I wish I could split myself in two or have Mr Right along side helping me. But it is a day to day process-

The weekend went pretty well- we went to the zoo and then hung out with the Tobias the other half of the family- Marcus had a little bit of problems on both days but for the most part really well behaved.

So maybe the meds are working better since they were increased- why did I not do it sooner- ugh- well I need to go for now but will write more on how his day went.

Lake Myrtle Elementary Here we COME

Okay as of Friday Marcus will be attending Lake Myrtle Elementary- I had to register him there- transfer paperwork- register for before and after school- all in one afternoon to get him ready for Monday morning

I went and registered him- then went to Sandpine and filled out more paperwork - picked up paperwork - picked up his meds- talked with Mr Law- he seemed very optimistic because of how much Marcus had improved with him being there- he went from 24 non compliance to only 5 yesterday in a period of 6-7 days. That was good news-
waited for Marcus to get done- run home let Isaac out- withdrawl him from one Kids r KIds- ran over to Lake Myrtle so he could see where the office was and meet some people- He met his teacher and saw his room- I am very hopeful-

then after that we went to the new kids r kids - met some of his teachers- and then got a bite cause I missed lunch - came home- whew done all in the course of 4 hours or so-

You have to understand the new school is about 15 minutes from my current house- they will provide transportation - however- I do not think they will pick up at 6 am

SO today I have a surprise for him - speaking of which- the boy was beaming last night when he earned a hat from Papaw cause he reached his goal of 5 stars each day for 5 days- I mean beaming . I do not think he could smile any bigger

People in our life that mean so much Part 5

Okay well- I saved this one for today-

These wonderful people have known me more then anyone- they love me no matter what stupid thing I may say or do- my family- my mom and dad- my sister and my brother-in-law

This past week or so has been the worst in a very long time- and when I called - my sister came over as soon as she could- she lives in Clearwater- oh I have done it for her and her gang - that is what you do when your family needs you- My brother in law was concerned I called this morning to just say hey and he was like are you okay the last time you called it was not a good thing- I am fine-

Lori saved Marcus from being turned away from another school- when I first got him- he is successful because the school she was at - they hung on - they tolerated a lot. but she was able to help him through that first year he was with me. because of her ability to love on him and not give up on him at school

Calling mom and dad in tears and they make it all better just listening - they live in Venice-
They have been there when Marcus was suspended or sick or had surgery - they have been there when $ was tight- I appreciate what they do when we come down- I think I gain 10 lbs when I am there for the weekend mom spoils us with things we like and do not get or make cause sometimes moms are best for that. Dad is great- we have a great relationship - the only thing I miss that we do not so much is working cows- so dad save working cows the big herd you have for next time I come down- I will use Spanky to round them up - yeah right.

They are not always sure what to do with Marcus- but they would do anything in a heartbeat for him. They learn each time they watch him. I do not think they will watch all 3 grandkids at one time though again. We go home- yes I call Venice home still- I spent 27 years there it will always be home- and it is so nice just to chill out- not worry about dinners - work - etc. I sleep when I am there - something I tend not to do at home- it is a quiet retreat a place of rest.


Our family is their to support us in all we do- our successes- our career changes- our moves to Tampa- and the most important support they did was open their hearts to Marcus as he entered our family- we did not know what we were all getting ourselves into- but I would not change it for anything-

I love you all!

We may not agree on things sometimes but that is fine- we are all uniquely made

A Home Is by Richard Dottery

Some say a home is just a place
To go, and hang your hat
We know that, that is an allusion
It's certainly much more than that,
It's a place to gain refreshing
A place for comfort and for rest
A place you should feel safe in
Your sanctuary at the best,
A place to dwell in, and be happy
At peace and doing OK
With Love for those around you
And Faith to get through another day,
It's a place to express that Love and Caring
Unto those you Love and know
A place we should look forward to returning to
And always want to go,
A place of escape from the world
And it's pain and trouble, so
A place to Love and to be Loved
Where God and the ones we Love all dwell and go.
Richard Dottery
Copyright ©2002 Richard Dottery

( I know they are not ours but - it was as close to home as I could get)

We got our heads examined today-

Marcus had a psychiatrist appt. today- at 8 am- we were there for over an hour- he is fine- I am insane. Anyway- there is a slight concern that Marcus has that people laugh at him and it really is not them they are laughing at- that people make fun of him- we had some of this issue at Aberdeen too- so I spoke to the Dr about it and he asked Marcus some questions- do you hear voices- do you see things- do you have an imaginary friend- he said no but I said yes so is that a problem?

My thought oh no he is paranoid schizophrenic - sorry it is true that is what I thought- they think it is a self esteem issue- so I will be working on that at home

So we are continuing ont medication Rx as of Friday - we will wait and return for a follow up in 6-8 weeks why - well I did send an email to some but- we are changing schools I believe- we will be going to the original school I thought of to go to- Lake Myrtle Elementary. I have to drive him there and all- fortunately there is a kids r kids right there . I feel good about it- They have 2 maybe 3 behavioral specialist right on campus-plus it has the SED porgram - it will work out -

So then I have a battle with the insurance company on the phone - ugh- what did they expect me to do drive around with out the car being safe the seatbelts were broke- the airbag light went on- not my insurance company but theirs.- I still will have words- I got so frustrated and aggravated I cried on the phone with them- ugh ugh- so anyway we will see- I talked with the grievance department and the regional manager will be calling me hopefully tomorrow.

Some people wonder why I stress a little- but that is fine the day ended very well

Marcus earned 6 for 6 stars today yipee yahoo- and he behaved great when I picked him up- and we were able to have him ride his bike - that was taken when he first got it and Papaw was helping him- I am tired and I need to get some things done - Marcus is off to bed- we get up early.

People in our life that mean so much Part 2 and 3 and 4

I will just mention a whole lot of people now-

Next- is the Currie Family- oh my goodness what encouragers they are. They usually have one word or even just a hug - the words I am proud of you - I hold dear- they mean so much when we have a rough week to make me laugh and it seems all better. They are a special family in our church that have been so supportive of Marcus and myself.

Marcus loves Mr Bernie and his truck - it is bigger then Pa Paws (he still loves yours dad) and he was allowed in it- so Mr Bernie took for a ride in the church parking lot - youwould think he gave him the world.

I love Miss Lisa- I am not sure if she realizes what an impact she has had on Marcus- even though he is active in the class - he does listen - he does pay attention - and he can tell me what he learns from her each week- that I am truly greatful.

This family is just an extension of ours- they mean so much to us and again what do you say to people who impact you- but THANK YOU and I Love you both for who you are.They truly live by our Northside Pledge and they are so full of compassion, kindness, gentleness, and patience.

Melissa and Sean from Illinois- formerly of Venice

I have know Melissa forever- we went to high school together- went are separate ways and some how God crossed our paths again- They are pastors in Creal Springs Illinois- did I get it right- they have a special needs child too- I think we learn from each other- I am so glad we got back into contact- they uplift me- and I know I am not alone in the struggles of a special needs child- cause we both know that our children were created uniquely by God and He has a greater plan for their lives then we could ever imagine. Love you all!

Okay last but certainly not least for today- my Girlfriend and her husband Leslie and Bill Wolf

We met at a vet clinic - strange but true- her cat was there I named him Blue- okay not really I just wanted to rhyme. Anyway- we met at the animal hospital I use to work for - then Bible quiz crossed our paths yet once again- and they have changed my life- they are so sweet and loving and kind- and again so encouraging- I have a lot of encouragers in my life- you think I need it or something. But we have bonded- we go to different churches but we serve one wonderful God- They are true blessings in my life- true blessings again what can you say to people who are there when you need them- thank you thank you thank you- I Love you guys

People in our Life that mean so much- Part 1

There may be many parts to this blog but for today- We start with Part 1

I want to share with you the many people who lift us up- there when we need to talk or email- there to calm Marcus down- there to calm mom down- there to say we all have been there and that is normal kid stuff.
Today I begin with 2 wonder ful people who have changed my life over the course of the last - 6 years - I think that is right- it just feels like they have always been here.


Who is it you ask?

Pastors Larry and Deanna Shrodes.

They are the best- so real so down to earth- know when something is not quite right-

Here is what I can say about them:


Pastor Larry is great he comes from the same town where I was born- many moons ago- Him and my dad actually know some of the same people- strange but true


PD- is wonderful she is adopted- Marcus is adopted-
okay those are neat things but here is where I will get all serious-

When I decided to adopt they were the biggest cheerleaders- they were there to guide me- direct me- They have been there through the waiting and when was it my turn to have a child- they have been there to encourage to give a hug just at the right time- they have been there through the tears and the joy.


They were there the day we signed the papers- even though we had to wait forever for our turn they were there.Pastor Deanna- dedicated him the very weekend- what a special moment. I will never forget- when we have baby dedications- It brings me back to the moment we were on the platform.

They have been there when Marcus was driving me crazy and I had to pick him up from preschool- I drove him straight to Pastor Larry- Pastor Larry and I talked - Relax he says Relax- easier said then done- then Pastor Larry and Marcus talked.

Marcus absolutely loves these 2 maybe cause I have talked about them before he was even in my home. He will search them out and sometimes not at the right time just to hug them.

I have grown so much- there have been many many times where God gave Pastor Larry the right message and it was just for me- I soak in the advice about parenting that they offer- their kids are great I love them to pieces and if Marcus can turn out like Dustin or Jordan- I will be pleased.

PD has told me stories of Jordan which is great cause it does not feel like I am alone with all the issues Marcus has- oh Marcus has so many more-

They have been there to talk with Marcus on the phone when I can not get through to him- they have been there just to listen to him say he has had a Good Day-

Just the other day Pastor Larry and I were talking and I just said I am frustrated and tired- Marcus was suspended again. He said we all as parents get that way- you mean I am not alone.

They not only have guided me with Marcus but they love him so much-

Thank you is not nearly enough to say- what do you say to two people who have impacted your life like no other- my life has changed because of them.

I appreciate them- I love them- and they mean so much to me and of course my little bubba man.

In Loving Memory

Today is a short blog- to remember my oldest sister Doreen Lynn Danielson - today would have been her 42nd birthday.

I never met her- she was only 2 months old when she died. I can never imagine what my parents went through or anyone else for that matter that has lost a child.

I know she is missed and she is not forgotten-

I know she is in heaven with Jesus and I will meet her someday.

Happy Birthday Doreen- We love you

okay I am calm- I think it is almost 12 hours later

Called my mom crying- just when I get frustrated and overwhelmed- upset angry - I cry-comes out in tears- she calmed me- mom have ways even when they are over an hour away. Called my sister slightly in tears-left a message for her- then I was fine

Called my insurance company - called their insurance company left a lovely message on her machine- I was polite- just told her of my situation and that they needed to pay for the rent a car- plain and simple

so Marcus had his meds increased beginning yesterday- not sure how it is working yet- seemed very good today- had a bout for an hour that he did not want to face the wall- he chose not to listen and I asked him to stand by the wall- well after talking back and spending time in his room-he finally sucumbed (is this a word) an hour later. just 1 hour a problem- I can deal with it.

We have gone over the rules of the school- he did some reading and writing and math today- yes we do some school work on the weekend- not a lot- then we did grocery shopping and home- he got a reward of ice cream which was a suprise- he was happy- he earned I think 9 or 10 stars today - so I was proud to give him ice cream.

He is in the shower and then getting ready for bed- I need to go finish working on the Sunday School Lesson for the high schoolers- we are talking about - Is Jesus a Liar, Is he insane, Did Jesus really die? Is he really God? It should be interesting.

I am aggravated- angry- frustrated- scared

Wow with a title like that you must think I have gone off the deep end- no not really

Unexpected things happen and last night they all began to sink in and this morning they sunk in-

Aggravated- why because - I know accidents happen- it was not in the plan of Wednesday morning at all-becuae I have to go through all this junk because I was obeying the law and got my car hit- through insurance claims - through renting a car- through the stress of dealing with it all and I was just sitting in my car minding my business waiting for the light to turn green. and SLAM into my car from the front- yes I am aggravated.

Angry- you bet turned my day into a total wreck- missed most of work- because of it- not to mention that was the day Marcus had to leave early and got suspended the next day. Angry because my car got crunched - again I know it was an accident.

Frustrated- I do not like insurance companies - okay - I need to rent a car- your company needs to pay for it- stop givining me the run around!!!

Scared- yes I am scared- I drove down Bruce B Downs with the steering wheel gripped tight and stressed- call me strange or ridiculous- this was my first accident ever- I did not want to go that way - did not want to drive that way- still do not want to drive that way- I find my self making sure there is so much room between me and the person in front of me- I can not control the person behind me but I wish I could.

I just want my car back- want things to go normal for Marcus at school - reverse this week and start over- I know it is not possible but this week has been an added stress that I do not want to have.

I am hoping today goes well- I have grocery shopping to do today where do I go - on Bruce B Downs.

Calgon take me away- I wish my tub would hold water.

The rest of the day-

Well- the day behaviorally has not been well- just talking back and not listening and when you aske him to stand by the wall it takes 20 minutes- I have an email, phone call, and an appointment with his Dr on Wednesday. I was hoping ot start new meds over the weekend but I have not heard back from him yet.
Which annoys me a little.

We went and got another registration form for the car- had no clue where mine was- also went and got a library card-

then have been home in the afternoon- I am tired- Marcus is reading his devotional-
Any ideas out there on how to have him to start doing what he is asked to do with out hitting people and getting suspended? I will take advice- I have him memorize verses about obeying -he knows them. His impulse behavior just seems to take over.
We have a quiet evening planned-a simple dinner- he will be in bed early- cause no nap- and he wanted to sleep so bad today but I would not let him cause he is not allowed to at school.

okay just got word on my car - it will not be ready til the 18th almost 2700 dollars worth of damage- yeah- so- there it is. well I will have fun driving the PT Cruiser for a little while.

Day 4 suspended-mommy the teacher

Morning all- my student is working diligently on reading writing and math.
Today there is no time to have back talk to defiance- or let me say it will not be tolerated at home- he has spent probably 40 minutes against the wall because he has chosen not to either do what he was asked or he would talk back.
So no nonsense from mom-

This afternoon is his chore duties- so this should be fun- I will be working on my work stuff this afternoon while Marcus cleans his bathroom and the one downstairs - he also will vacuum the house- Hey I can not do it all myself- and what better way to keep him busy and not have fun today.

I am proud though his reading has come so far since the beginning of the year and he likes to read. so we have our pluses and minuses but I guess we all do.

I will write some more a little later- I am waiting to hear from his psychiatrist for a possible switching of his medication. So my prayer is we find one that helps with the impulse behavior.

Thanks Pastor Larry for you words last night-

This has been one of the worse days

This is how my day began today- I was hit- you may think that I hit someone but oh no- when you leave your car in reverse at a stoplight and the light turns green this is what happens. YOU BACK into me.

On top of this I had to pick Marcus up early and he was suspended tomorrow- It is a great day!!!

Beginning of a new week-

Today I took Marcus in to meet Mr Law who is a behavior specialist- we did not go in till almost 10 because they wanted to prep the students and give Marcus a heads up on who Mr Law was- I will get back to that momentarily but I will start off by saying how the weekend went.

Sunday we had a bump in the road at church when I took his paperwork like I do every Sunday so he does not get in trouble- he wore me out and Uncle Adam had to come in and reason with him- He was fine for Children's church- did not get a chance to ask Miss Lisa how he was for Sunday School though.

We went grocery shopping and he was so helpful- and kind we have fun when we grocery shop - alot of times he pushes the cart and gets the food- sometimes he reads the lists and rides on the bar where I push and I wear these shoes that slide easily so I run (jog real fast) then slide with the cart and he laughs it is so fun -

So then we went home and took a nap- I tidy up the house and then went to stay with Uncle Adam and Aunt Brenda- Because the next day we went to the Florida Aquarium- he was not too bad- he liked the sharks and fell asleep on the way home- the dark scared him a little but then he found Nemo and all was good. Saw Pastor T and Miss MIsty and the kids several times when we were there.

So today we got to sleep in and go to school late- we were able to talk about who Mr Law was and I asked if he had any questions. He said is he the same color as me- I said I do not know- Why do you ask? that makes me a little nervous mommy. Why would it make you nervous? I do not want him to take me- he is not going to take you he is there to help you- but what about the other man that sits with his child he is my color and he will take me and I do not want him to. I think I know where this is coming from but it will be okay- I said there are only a few people allowed to pick you up and I named them. He said okay- I told him if anyone besides those people try and pick you up to leave school you scream.

So Mr Law is a very tall gentleman but seems very kind- Marcus I could tell was a little nervous meeting him- He is not sure what it is all about yet- but I think he will- Shannon from R club gave me a list of what they did and they are going to try to implement that so Marcus will be familiar- I think Marcus will relaize Mr Law is going to be like Miss Shannon - although no one can replace her - We love you Miss Shannon.

So I will write more over the 10 days- meanwhile tomorrow I have to go to the dentist to check my tooth - it broke on Friday afternoon and has a sharp edge which is the only thing hurts about it-

Okay I have about 1/2 hour before getting Marcus I will be viewing via the webcam

We have a plan-

Striving for Good Behavior

I met with the principal, the school psycologist, the ESE program director for Pasco County, the guidance counselor, and his teacher yesterday-

I arrived and I could hear them all talking and my stomach sank- honest feeling here- I was like already they have decided without my input what am I going to do they are ganging up on me- ok so a little paranoid I was it goes back to the past- but I got my wits about me- said God please help me to be calm and peaceful. Help me not to have anxiety cause I feel it building- I waited for about 15 minutes before they called me in- then the school psychologist hit Marcus on the head ( with how he saw him not literally cause he was not there). then I begin to relax and said wow they know already how he is. He said Marcus learned this behavior and it is going to take sometime to unlearn it my heart did a little dance. Yes they see it- Mr Rendizio (forgive the spelling if I get it wrong) said that we have a positive thing going is that he is very smart- he gets that from me you know :) so this may be a good thing. Here is the plan for the next 10 days of school they are bringing in Mr Law a behavior specialist to be in Marcus' class to observe to intervene to see if this is a workable situation. In 10 days we should know what the next step is. All in the room were very optimistic with a we will see.

I will inform Marcus of what is to take place.

I told him them of Marcus history - somewhat - they knew part of it because of Mr Larson and I speaking even before school starting. I told him how far he has come and I know what he is capable of. The fact is he does not have that trust with them yet..

SO thank you for your prayers

Grannie and Pa paw thank you for watching him- I know it may have difficult at times and I appreciate it. At least it was better then the summer time. :)

We have come so far- and still have so far to go- keep on persisting good choices and changing his outlook- we will accomplish the task that was set before us.


God- I thank you for the wonderful people who have crossed our paths- through email, through friendships, through high school , through our family, through our church family they have encouraged me, uplifted me and been there. Bless them today and everyday for the love they have for us. For Marcus and I are truly blessed to have each of them in our lives to be with us.

In your name I pray amen.