Things I learned in 2008

Okay I know some of you have seen this on PDs blog and so I stole the idea from her- So here we go.

1. Helping others is a passion I have
2. With God all things are possible
3. We have the victory and we have overcome
4. Asking for help is definately ok
5. Having great friends in your life is life saving
6. God gives you strength when you think you have none left
7. Through the valley there are friends praying for you and having enough faith for you
8. That laughing and crying through moments of diffculities is okay
9. Venting to friends is so helpful
10. Realizing you are not alone in this world is an amazing feeling
11. That I can get up in front of people and teach (not just kids either)
12. Stepping out - you will be amazed how God will use you
13. Children act out in anger and sometimes they really do not know why
14. PTSD is not a fun thing to live with
15 However medication to help is great
16. Therapy sessions are really helpful -
17. I can still keep up with the young man when he takes off
18. A little bit of time in someone's life can be life changing
19. Teachers are great
20. I am still learning to relax more
21. Being uneasy at home is not a good feeling
22. That God has placed people in my life for such a time as this- I am so thankful cause they are just the right ones
23. Your friends are as close as your heart
24. I can do all things through Christ who strentghens me
25. Anger outbursts have no reflection of how I am as a mother
26. Anger control for a child can be difficult
27. Consistency is the key to success for Marcus
28. God has a plan
29. Heart wrenching decisions can change your life forever
30. The love of friends is so wonderful

There is so much more but this is just a few- Happy New Year everyone- This is a brand new year! (well as of midnight tonight)- I am so looking to saying goodbye to 2008 and hello to 2009.

Yes- the past year has been a difficult one- but knowing I made it through means God has amazing things yet to come.

Its really quiet...

Well- I spoke with mom today and Marcus had a really rough morning but managed to get his act together and work outside helping papaw and Mr Clark build a shed- I know that today was a signifcant day for Marcus he needs male bonding time- and I am sure that did him a world of good. Thanks Dad and Clark- I am sure he enjoyed it so much.

Well for me it is very quiet- I have just been chillin and puttin things away from Christmas- should finish up tomorrow and Thursday- can not wait to get off tomorrow cause then I do not have to return to work until Tuesday.

I am including some family photos we got done before Christmas- was unable to share earlier because mom and dad read my blog and it would have blown the surprise.

Went out childless...

Last night I went out childless - actually went out not to friends house but out to a movie with the Shrodes and Garlands- then grabbed a bite to eat- had a great relaxing time and did not have to worry about what time I got home to relieve a babysitter or if anything was wrong- such a relief- and much needed break-
did not really realize how much I needed it til I was driving home-

So if you are a single parent and do not get out with other adults and no children - I highly recommend it

Christmas Day in review

Well- the day started off with the kids up about 630 or so- Marcus opened his first gift with a note attached regarding his behavior - his first gift rocks-the letter told him that Santa was sad about choices he had made and the gifts he left mommy knows where they are located-Breathe because I know you are angry about the first gift- He did get angry he kicked the bag of rocks-but recovered after me speaking with him and then had a delightful rest of the day (minus a 20 minute meltdown at5 tiredness and overwhelming set in) The letter told what good choices he is able to make and he can do it- He can do it I know he can-

Happy Birthday Jesus

Help us all to remember the true meaning of Christmas- Thank you Jesus you are the best gift ever- Happy Birthday

He is only mine for a moment

I need to make it the best moment I can- my prayer is that I can give him the roots he needs to become whatever he wants to become- I pray that I can teach him about the amazing God we serve and how much he has brought us through-

So thankful for a new day

If I could have ended the day yesterday it would have been at 9 am yesterday- I think I had 2 hours of good behavior and then the rest was absolutley horrendous- really it was - at 4 pm enough was enough. I missed Ainsley's b-day party and missed everything about it- rage had set in and nothing was bringing him back- I tried everything- I think he just wore himself out.
But inspite of the horrible Sunday today has been fabulous- so different -
So I am thankful for a new day- afresh day- he has been very sweet and very respectful
Well got much to work on- keep praying that he works on his anger control- I know he can do it it - I know he is able to do it- I know he knows what to do- just keep praying that his past stops resurfacing

Going to the Chapel....

someday- here are my thoughts lately on marriage and getting married-

First let me just say - no there is no significant other in my life right now- just thoughts that have encircled my mind over the last couple of weeks

for those of you that are single- as PD has said and I truly believe- single is a whole number- you need to be confident in yourself and fulfilled in yourself before ever thinking of marriage- (this is my opinion ) and I am writing as a single woman of many years so I think I have some perspective on it. Have I always been confident in myself no way- In my 20s I wanted to be married start a family yadada well let me tell you I am still not married and that is okay -well.... we come back to that

I had to come to grips that is okay not to have a man by your side- for me I had goals and wanted to accomplish them and if I was married - and a mom I am not sure I would have been able to- I wanted to have children but was not looking and still am not looking for a husband (hopeful though) Getting married just to have kids is so wrong - in my opinion why caus I did not have to get married to have a child 100s of children are out there waiting to have a loving mom or dad and you can do it as a single person-

For me I think this was best - for the first 3 years- me being a single mom - why you ask- because I coudl devote the time to Marcus that he needed - strictly for him- no husband in the way- Marcus needed that . God has a plan for a reason and as I look at my life things follow in the not so normal way- and that is okay. So if you are single be okay with it be fulfilled with who you are- you can make a difference-

As for me - I am now ready to settle down with a husband- just waiting- I have made a specific list of what I am looking for- nope not going to share- that is between me and God- I have where and what time I want to get married-(the wedding) shoot I have been planning for many many years and can not wait- I do get frustrated at times but I realize that it was not time for me- In my heart it is time for me- maybe not today or tomorrow but I can say I am ready- nervous you bet-but I look forward to staying up late watching tv with my husband our hopes and dreams and future- cuddling up in front of our fireplace (this is a dream) walking hand in hand on the beach- worshipping God - praying together-doing minstry together- having the same love for kids and youth and special needs families. I am no ordinary person you see- I am extraoridinary and am looking forward to having an extraoridnary marriage- I am anticipating it. Do not know when but will be looking forward to it.

So let me just reiterate be confident and fulfilled in the person you are before you get married- take care of you so you can later take care of your marriage.

Home Sick today

Not me I am not home sick - Marcus is- we missed church last night because the boy had a fever of 100.2 he normally just gets colds this is a first with a fever. so we stayed home- poor guy- he looked pathetic but he passed his belt test

His fever went down by 10:30 last night but was back this morning- gave him some applesauce this morning and then about 1 he asked for some lunch which means he is feeling better - right now he is making his bed and doing some homework.

Fever is down for now and hopeful that it will stay down

So I have been some work from home and working on reorganzing the kitchen and cleaning the downstairs area- almost finished- must get back to work-

Interesting blog to come in the days- just thought that have been going through my head - just going to share

12 Days of Christmas

I love this group- this was done 10 years ago and the group just reunited and made their first Christmas CD- they were a group of college kids - Enjoy and all they sing is acappella

Can I be honest?

Some of you are going to read this and go WHAT!
I do not like this time of year- I love celebrating Jesus' birth but all the overstimulation has put my some into overdrive and I have had enough- so why does it have to be this way? Why
It is all the commercialism that has himover the top- so over the top- all the parties etc etc-
I love to go to parties but for him it means disaster the next day-
I enjoy my time with friends cause it is very relaxing- but then I have a price to pay for several days post-
what to do?
The last 2 days have been horrendous really they have and as Christmas gets closer ugh
Just be obedient- do what you are asked- stop mouthing back- be respectful focus on what you are suppose to be doing-
I am physcially-emotionally and mentally drained- I do not like this feeling it makes me not want to celebrate- Just being honest
I love Jesus but can we just nor overstimulate

I am so excited

Last night and tonight (especially today-THANKS Lori, Dakota and Marcus) for helping with our Sunday School project- I have been working on a lesson and will be so excited to share it with the kids- we will be talking about the 3 gifts Jesus received and what they meant-or I should say mean- then we will be giving out small gifts to those who are there-I want the kids to truly understand what the gift means and why they are so significant- then I want them to be able to give a gift - small but it has a significant saying on it-it tells the following

Gold- roylaty Jesus is the King of Kings and Lord of Lords

Frankincense- purity or divinity- He is the Son of God Son of Man

Myrrh- used for embalming- He was Crucified for you and me

I can not wait to explain this to the kids and then have them pass out these simple little gifts- I made quite a bit and hopefully have enough for every family- if not oops- I do have a special one just for a special family - Marcus made it.

Its a beautiful evening

I am on my porch right now listening to my ipod anywhere from Christmas Songs to Worship songs- I love it-

Just finished working on my Sunday School lesson- I am excited about it- talking about the 3 gifts Jesus was given at his birth and what they mean- I learned something- and some of the church will be surprised before service- Can not wait-

It is so nice out here- I am listening (besides my ipod) listening to the rustling of the trees with the wind- it is cool and Isaac is hanging out with me making sure I am okay-

It is a quiet night- Marcus went to bed early he was tired - usual is after service Wednesday Night and up early the next day- had another wonderful day today- no issues today at home- I love it- and truly believe this is my miracle I have been waiting for- I know he is not perfect but you have got to understand what a joy it has been to be able to have fun with him and know he is not going to go off- I can sense when they are going to occur now and we had a couple the last few days but nothing like before and they were over very quickly - with in 5-10 minutes that is so awesome. I still take each day by day and try to move on past them- sometimes it is hard cause the booger wears me out. Well tonight he is worn out and all is quiet

I am thankful that I have a great support team- from my family- (this includes church family) -friends- therapist -teachers- psychiatrist- martial arts instructors- he is getting consistent things said to him and I am so glad he is finally getting it

God is so good- thank you God for touching my son- I am so amazed how awesome you are!!!

What's going on?

Well - things to be humming a long here- work seems to be going on a better path- you know sometimes I am way to hard on myself- see people it is not just about Marcus it is everything I do- Last week I was feeling inadequate about my new position and was just feelin overwhelmed with everything- I emailed my supervisor and she gave me glowing remarks from the Drs I work with - who knew- . There is still so much to learn and it seems like when I have one thing mastered something else shows up that I had no clue about- ugh-So after I receieved her email I relaxed and priortized again revamped and refocused and so far this week has been better- I am getting things done- oh my I did not realize how much paperwork and tracking of things you had to do-plus on top of that I need to make sure all the animals are well cared for and the Drs follow up on my request as part of the veterinary team.

So it is a learning process and I am very thankful they feel that way-

Marcus seems to be doing well with school and both his before care and after care- yeah for him- we did have a meltdown yesterday afternoon and a little bit of attitude this morning and afternoon - it all goes back to not getting want he wants- deal with it kid-they were over quite quickly so that I can deal with.

Fixing to go to the best church ever- come check us out Northside Assembly - http://www.northsideag.org/ you will love it

Fall....

I had the pleasure of watching the leaves in the yard across the street fall from its branches- I was watching as I was walking Isaac and I began to thank God for the fall- because in the fall the leaves fall off and the old is gone- and as the spring approaches a new life begins- While I was just admiring the beauty of some of the fall colors we have here in Florida- God spoke to my heart and said do you realize what I am doing - Of course I went huh- just like the leaves of the trees that are old and need to fall away to become new- Marcus' old life is falling away and he is becoming new- and leaves fall at different times just like the things in Marcus' past are falling off at different times- but hold on to the promises I have for him hold on to the promises I have told you about him- the spring is not far and new life is already beginnning in him-

You won't believe it-update

We had a women's get together and a CE get together on Friday and Saturday night- and I sat and listened and talked at both get togethers- (one of which we talked about being grateful)
As I sat there in both gatherings I realized how blessed I truly am- the people I am with are terrific. I sat there with tears in my eyes at both thinking this year has been extremely hard and I am so grateful that I had some of these people lifting me and Marcus up in prayer in the lowest point of our valley.
I amnot going to dwell on the valley part of the year but I need to tell you - how grateful I am for it- going through it was the toughest part but as I look back that time it has brought me to a whole new level of who I am. As Bernie told me that Wednesday night when Marcus was in the crisis unit- if this does not kill you it will make you stronger and I truly believe that I ama much stronger person from it- I was strong before but this is a whole different level- and a whole different way- I can't remember a lot of what was said to me at that time- but I do remember the fact when Pastor Larry said this has no reflection on you as a mother-that statement stuck to me like glue and at the moment he told me I did not realize how much of an impact it would have on me- I am thankful so grateful to the Tobias household- allowing me to take up residence on their floor for a week- not being able to function and telling me this is a new beginning- again the signifcance of that statement was not realized until recently when I could look back and see- not only for Marcus but for me as well-a new beginning of making sure I am able to work with him- and fight for him- counsel him when he is not in therapy-
I am thankful for PD and Melissa- and Cathy for holding me up in prayer and having the Faith that I needed to get through - through their prayers- I am thankful for Lori who sat with me for hours contemplating the decision and finally making the decision- she was there to help restrain him and make phone calls and just be there to ask if I was ok- she drove from Clearwater one night for a 10 minute visit at the unit. I am grateful that the mental helath staff in the ER listened to a mom- the month of September was a rebuilding of faith- I did not give up- and I never will- yes being in the trenches is what I am grateful for this year- no I am not crazy- it felt as if I was at certain times-
I am stronger from it- I am back in school because of it- I am more of an advocate because of it- I speak out because of it- I want to help kids even more because of it- I want to help parents because of it-
Realize we all go through tough times but what you make of it is up to you- I am not saying it is still not tough cause we have had moments but when you beging to see the outcome of your determination you began to realize how grateful you are that God allowed me to go through it to make me a better person then I was before September 1 2008

Building Snowman in Florida

Thanks Grannie for giving Florida kids a chance to a build a snowman- he enjoyed it

What a week

This week has been wonderful- the best week as far as behavior ever- no really- you may not understand what I am talking about but he truly is the best ever- Before care earned all his points this week- School earned all his points this week- after care no problems this week. Did well in Martial arts- Home- except for a few minor meltdowns (minor real minor) he has been fabulous- like the switch was finally turned on or something-it is God- that is all I can say

So I call the before care after I pick him up to see how his Friday went-Miss Kim was like I was going to call you and I went inside my head oh no- (please understand normally those phone calls are not good) so I said really she said I want to tell you how proud I am of Marcus- I was like really- she said today another child hit him while they were playing legos and Marcus walked away- she said she was not there so she asked the other teachers what happened and what did Marcus do- they said he walked away- so she called him over and he thought he was in trouble but she said Marcus what happened this morning and he told her and she gave him a BIG hug and said I am so proud of you and the choice you made- you controlled your anger- Good job- She said he got the biggest grin- as she was telling me this my eyes began to fill with tears and really they are beginning again- this is HUGE- some may not realize it but this is a breakthrough- he walked away- he walked away-

My heart is filled with so much - how proud I am of him- how thankful I am to people who have not given up on him-it has taken over 3 years to get to this point- and I am so proud- this is the best Christmas gift I could ever receive - no amount of $ could ever take this away.

Stay tuned for tomorrow- I want to write about what I am thankful for during this time-you may be surprised

Its a Stellar Day

Behavior is good

I am proud to say we have had a good day- well Marcus behavior wise has - from the start of the day to the finish of the day- very minor things but he was good- I thought we were on a verge of a meltdown at Martial Arts today but he surprised me he thought about it before he reacted- he is listening it is sinking in- day by day- baby steps
So proud

just when I think I have it

Breathe- just when I think I know what I am doing with Marcus- he throws a wrench in the plan- the last 2 evenings have been I do not want to do my Hw I do not want to eat that for dinner- oh normally or normal children would have just gotten upset and went off to their room- oh no- scream holler I want..... cry carry on- scream at me some more- I wish I was nto your son- stab in the heart(not really those words hurt me even though he says it in anger)-
Mornings have been real good it is these after karate and working on dinner and HW the last 2 days are going to drive me over the edge-
I am a little tense right now so this is my venting- he seems not to get it about it is not about what he wants - tonight especially he was told what he needed to do and here we are over an hour later-
UGH- Breathing- He is calm now and guess what he is doing his HW- why did he not want to do it- he did not understand it- did he tell me that - NO!!! he just got angry.

I am so tired

The past 2 nights my sleep has not been very good- not sure why- I have lots racing in my head - Christmas- classes- work- Marcus' behavior- house work that needs done and keeps piling up-
etc.
This morning I woke up and said I really do not want to go to work- just feeling a little inadequate there for some reason- not sure why - hopefully this week I can get caught up and focus on some stuff that has not been looked at- Being thrown into something and not knowing what your doing is a little unsettling so it has taken a lot of time to figure things out- too much time in my opinion but I think I am my own worst enemy when trying to accomplish things- anyway I am hoping today goes quickly and not to crazy at work-

Looking Back

I did not get to write this early this week - so I am taking time to do it now- What am I thankful for?

- The Awesome God I Serve- He is so kind- merciful- loving - gracious- understanding-He gives us wisdom- He strengthens us

-Family and Friends- Their support and love through a tough year- but a growing year
- A job that keeps challenging me to improve and stretch

- For the caring and loving nurses and doctors and support staff at St. Josephs ER department
- For therapist, psychiatrists and teachers that help us each and every month
- For my health - my home-

I am thankful that God is a God of increase- what do I mean by that - for me- it was an increase in trusting in Him- relying more on Him- An increase of learning that it is okay to ask for help and be lifted up by friends when your faith is not as strong as you would hope it would be- An increase of being used by God to teach others -being stretched by God in the most astounding way that I would never seem imaginable. Realizing we are not alone in this world. Increase in joy even when you seem there is no joy to have- laughing through the hard times even when you really do not feel like it. An increase of wisdom- increase in patience (yes more of an increase)
An increase in love for my son- even when he is angry-realizing what a wonderful child God created- and that he just needs a little more guidance - more encouragement- more consistency- more love-
An increase in helping Marcus realize he is wondrfully made- that he is a Good person- even if he makes bad choices- helping him to see through God's eyes he was created in God's imagine.

An increase in helping others to reach their potential for God-

Some fun at the park in Venice

Took the kids to the park yesterday afternoon- Chip is with his mom this week- so it was just the little ones - although they are not so little anymore-

Ainsley lost her first tooth last night- well I pulled it out for her- little bit of pliers and we were good to go- I am just kidding relax- a paper towel and a good twist and out it came

Our almost finished tree

It is almost finished- when I get back I need to add some lights at the bottom but this is what it looks like

Deck the Halls with Boughs of Holly....

I am home alone decking the halls- shh- Marcus will be surprised - putting up the tree-cleaning the house-organizing for the weekend -will be going to Venice tomorrow after work. Yes I have to work - animals tend not to take care of themselves
I will post a picture of the tree in a bit

Thank you God for allowing me to be a part of the BEST CHURCH

God has truly blessed me with a wonderful church family- it was great day at church yesterday- We ended it with our annual Thanksgiving Dinner- I sat with wonderful friends and we laughed- I held a baby- enjoyed my time immensely- Marcus was off with the kids - this was a first- the last couple of years he wanted to hang out with Mom- this was our first Thanksigiving meal was the first one we had after we became a forever family - so each year I look forward to it.

We also celebrated our Pastors- we have the best pastors in the world- real- loving- compassionate- full of encouragement- wants what is best for you in the Lord- sees something in yourself and helps you to see it as well- stretches you-helps you to grow into the person God created you to be- really no words could ever express how I feel about my pastors - I am just so thankful for them for all that they are to me and my family-

YEAH is what I heard....

when I told Marcus that PD was coming home from Africa he was so excited- I showed him via his globe how far away she was- of course the number of questions of how did she get there how long the flight was - how many miles away- etc

So he found out the from the US is ~ 4100 miles and then to Africa is ~ 4300. He was like wow- that is far away -

So PD get ready he missed you and can not wait to see you.

Today was another stellar day

What a great day!

Today has been a great day- Marcus had another stellar day from start to finishi with a few minor kid issues but hey thatis okay- work went well
Got grocery shopping done and now just chilling out- Looking forward to the weekend- It is going to be a good one-

Momma is so proud

Well- last night after my teaching -Marcus decided to have a moment - it was like the devil saying look you just taught on frustration- here you go handle it- I handled it calm- with the help of several at church- see we are not alone-

They we woke up this morning and he was great- Got his chart from before school and school and he had a perfect point earning day for both- and after care and home right now no problems- Never give up- God will be there

I am so proud of him today- one day at a time- day by day - step by step

Frustration

Okay here are my notes from my teaching- I think I did okay- I talked really fast- but that was nerves I think -the best part of the whole night- was a visitor gave their live to Jesus - How awesome is that!!


Fused for Frustrations-Future
How many have ever been frustrated? Whether it be with your children- work - school- family members? Your marriage- Me never I have no frustrations in my life- well of course we know that is not true.
Okay so how do we handle these frustrations?
1. Allow them to eat through us
2. Have them take over us
3. Allow them to make us miserable which in turn will make everyone else miserable.

We go through frustrations or trials or tribulations to help us grow to help us to develop into the person God created us to be.
We have a future past the frustrations of life - how by trusting in God by relying on him- through friends to help us along the way.

Key ways to help us through

We are not alone - we are not on this planet alone and if you have children you go through frustrations- Most importantly God is there ready to help you through

Deuteronomy 31:8 (NIV)
8 The LORD himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged."

Ephesians 4:29 (NIV)
29 Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.

* I sometimes forget that I am not alone-others out there have dealt with similar situations- that we each got through-
* I am not one to ask for help- because I can do it on my own- well I have learned over the last 3 years that is okay to ask for help it does not make you weaker it makes you stronger
* Illustration of Frustration- Marcus and his hitting at school and being suspended - frustrating- why- taking off work- etc
*Deal with Frustration
cry- well sometimes-
* I email or call someone- yes at 630 in the am - chat online
*- why cause if we allow the frustrations to build up inside who are we benefiting?
* When I call or email
I do not need a reply I just need a place for someone to listen
* Listen to those who have been through it there words may not seem helpful at the time cause you are so frustrated but you will go back and there may be 1-2 things that sticks out in your mind and that is just what is needed for that time.

God is always there for us and He sees the frustrations we go through-
Be honest with God when it comes to saying okay God I am not sure how to deal with this one- I have vented and that is not changing my frustration I am feeling- very candid with Him- ( He already knows it just voice it)
Praise and worship nothing like being in God’s Presence to help with the frustration

Never give up-
Last 3 years as of yesterday( marked our 3 year forever family anniversary) have been very frustrations- tiredness - weariness- but I could never give up-never give up- does not mean I did not feel like it
God did not give up on me or you so do not give up on your frustrations or trials he will see you through- you will become a better person a changed person
look past the trial the frustration- see it through God’s eyes-
What is the outcome going to be - Will he be glorified
For he knows the plans he has for you-
Think about work do you have person that may talk behind your back is negative towards you- show kindness to them- keep praying for them
you have a family member that is under your skin- causes you grief makes you frustrated when you are around them- We can not change them - But we can pray for them and never give up

Jeremiah 29:11 (NIV)
For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.

A few weeks ago Tim gave me a verse- and it is one I have heard before but I have thought about it over and over again

Galatians 6:9 (NIV)
9 Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.

Isaiah 40:29 (NIV)
29 He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak.

think about us and how many times God has been frustrated with me or you- has he ever given up on us? No never- why he sees us through He sees us past the frustrations- so we need not to give up through the frustrations we have and try to realize that there is a future - which leads me to my next and final point

3. A future
Your frustrations could help someone
Work- Marcus God helping me- it is my family ( you all included) my friends- his drs his therapists - why because he has a future -
we all have a future- your story as Pastor said a couple of weeks ago could be the new Buzz around- wow if this frustration brought them to here I know I can make it

Repeat Jeremiah 29:11
For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future

Romans 8:18 (NIV)
18 consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us.
Even though we go through frustrations - God will use those frustrations to help benefit others and make you a stronger person-

BIG NEWS

Happy Forever Family Day!!

Today marks 3 years of Marcus and I being a Forever Family. I remember like it was yesterday

I look at the picture I have hanging on the wall- he was so tiny - he is growing and we have come so far in behaviors - it could only get better - day to day.

So remember to hold your family close and know that families are forever- to all of you who are my family and are considered family ( you know who you are) thank you for all you have done for us over these past 3 years- You all are a true blessing to us and we would not have made it with out you all- thank you for all you love and support- your encouragement -

God sure does answer prayers

Been praying all day today- had a conference with before care director and her boss.
Well- I did not know what to say-when they said We have been talking and we are not sure what to do- we think this may not be a good place for him- They informed me they had been talking and such and the director honestly said she was not sure if she wanted him back- He is a good boy she said but his anger - I said I completely understand and I am thinking wow he is getting booted once again- said a little prayer quietly and the whole conversation switched to me pullin out the chart I came up with and came up with a plan and ideas for helping deal with his anger and it was great-
It is still touch and go but I am hoping this will be a breakthrough moment for him realizing that he is loved-

Yesterday

Went over to Lori and Stacy's - Lori and I stayed home while Stacy took the kids to the park and in a matter of 2 hours or so- we tranformed Chips room into a Gator room and I have never seen the boy so happy or surprised as he was- he has had a rough go around the last few weeks and I wanted to help him with the change that is occuring in his life- just pray for him-
So hopefully Lori will send me pictures of it so I can share (hint hint Lori)

Hurdles

This is one of my devotions I read and this is what it was for today- I found it quite amusing in the fact this is my life- most of the time- and also the fact it is discussing a similar topic in a round about way what I am teaching Wednesday night-

I am so glad it is Friday- as I began writing my teaching and let me say I do not know how PD and Pastor Larry do it everyweek- it is difficult- well for a bit it was and then things just started to flow- I could not type fast enough- I surely did not write it alone-

Anyway- I began writing Sunday night and from that day on until even about 14 minutes ago-things were looking a little hairy- well I have been doing everything that my teaching says to do and wow more amazing - yes the frustrations are there but me writing what I am going to teach on was eye opening for me and I really need to continue with doing it- no worries people after next Wednesday I will post it- I am excited by it cause I truly believe it is from God and it is simply my life.

Enjoy the devotion

November 14, 2008 Hurdles Angela L. Craig

Today’s Truth James 1:2 (MSG) “Consider it a sheer gift, friends, when tests and challenges come at you from all sides. You know that, under pressure, your faith-life is forced into the open and shows its true colors. So don’t try to get out of anything prematurely. Let it do its work so you become mature and well-developed, not deficient in any way.”

Friend to Friend Imagine that it is your birthday, and before you sits the most beautiful gift you have ever seen. You can hardly wait to find out what is inside such an amazing gift box, wrapped in gold and glitter. Everyone gathers to celebrate as you delicately undue the paper from the box. You lift the lid to find a note that reads:
Dear (your name here):
Happy Birthday! This year, you will receive tests and trials that will challenge you to your core and require incredible perseverance and resilience on your part.
The good news is that if you persevere, your faith and your character will be built up.
Love,
James
Would you rejoice in such a gift, or would you throw the box at the gift-giver?
I recently read an article about Lolo Jones, an Olympic Gold Medal hopeful.
Lolo grew up in a family that was homeless for many years. Lolo's father was in and out of jail and not in the picture most of the time, leaving Lolo’s mother to raise her and her four siblings alone.
Lolo’s story continued as the world watched her overcome her tough childhood through her love for running and hurdles. Due to her come-back attitude, Lolo was touted to be the girl who would live out the American Dream story, from rags to riches, from defeat to glory! Lolo persevered regardless of the odds against her!
However, in one moment, her dreams were crushed when she clipped a hurdle during the Olympic trials and went from 1st place to 7th place.
In less than a second, all that she had worked for, all that she had hoped for in her life was gone. In an interview shortly after her fall, Lolo made this statement:
"As I crossed the line it was very hard to pick myself back up," Jones said through tears. "It took about 30 seconds, but you know what? Today's hard and tomorrow's going to be harder. What can you do but try again?"
How many of us have felt like we couldn't pick ourselves up, that today was hard, but tomorrow didn't look much better?
The good new is that you and I know a God (or we are getting to know a God) that wants us to overcome every hurdle. He wants to heal every wound and help us walk triumphantly into our future!
So ladies, "what can you do but try again?"
Don’t let go of your dreams, God hasn’t!

Even though

I am having a bumpy ride right now with Marcus however-God is so very good- I am so excited I can burst and at the same time nervous- the topic of my teaching next week started last night in Fusion and I am like wait do not talk about this now next week next week-

My prayer is that my life's frustrations and how I choose or attempt to choose to deal with it will help someone- one person

Keep praying and pressing in for us- things need to turn around -God is in control and I know I am not alone

A special Salute

We are Free to Dance- free to sing- free to worship a Mighty King- We are a free country because of the many men and women who serve our country or who have served our country.
I salute all of you in the armed forces -Thank you for allowing me to be Free

Your love lives inside of me..

so my life is in your hands- I am never without hope because my future is with you. Your love does amazing things

I know today for Marcus is not what I would have planned but Lord my life is in your hands and so is his.

Even through....

the frustrations of life- God is so good and so close-I am excited and nervous and all of the above- why cause I will be teaching on Wednesday Night the 19th. It will be a stretch but a good stretch - I have what I am teaching on but have yet to write it-
I am not sure how to put it all together- the thoughts are running in my head but have not got it down on paper yet
The title- 2 part sorta- Fused for Frustrations and a Future-

Today has been one of those frustrating days - Marcus has had a bumpy ride today after such a good day yesterday- I was hoping this pattern would not continue- we usually have a bumpy rode after a good day on the weekend or something else that occurred. With God though I am learning to work through the frustrating days - how come Wedenesday the 19th and see.

God is good and so glad he never gives up on us!

Today was JBQ

We had BQ at Zephyrhills this morning- I was blessed cause we did not have to meet at the church-since I live 15 minutes from the church-

Marcus did pretty well - he accomplished his goal of getting a positive quiz out and buzzed in several times to interrupt. We won 1 match today- better then last time- Marcus answered questions in every round- yeah Marcus- he is so smart- I am proud of how well he did today. He shines bright for BQ.

We took about a 3 hour nap afterwards- I guess we were both tired- made dinner- then went for about a 2 mile walk-now we are getting ready to watch a movie- shh itis a surprise he has no clue but he will he about 5 minutes

We need each other

I am so thankful I have those that read my blog and are in my life constantly - this video is in honor of you- some of you I do not have photos of but please know I love you and appreciate all the love and support you have given me- as I created this video- the words ring so clear to me as you all are so dear to me- my life would not be complete with out any of you- You all mean the world to me- thank you for who you all are in our lives- I LOVE AND APPRECIATE YOU ALL MORE THEN YOU COULD EVER KNOW

Photo and video editing at www.OneTrueMedia.com