Saturday, November 29, 2008

Looking Back

ImageChef.com - Custom comment codes for MySpace, Hi5, Friendster and more 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-

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Friday, November 28, 2008

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

Wednesday, November 26, 2008

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

Monday, November 24, 2008

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

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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-

Saturday, November 22, 2008

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

Friday, November 21, 2008

What a great day!

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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-

Thursday, November 20, 2008

Momma is so proud

Visual Poetry - ImageChef.com 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

Wednesday, November 19, 2008

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-

Tuesday, November 18, 2008

BIG NEWS

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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 -

Monday, November 17, 2008

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-

Sunday, November 16, 2008

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)

Friday, November 14, 2008

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!

Thursday, November 13, 2008

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

Tuesday, November 11, 2008

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


Monday, November 10, 2008

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.

Sunday, November 9, 2008

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!

Saturday, November 8, 2008

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

Friday, November 7, 2008

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

The 5 finger prayer method

THE 5 Finger Prayer Method

I read this in my devotional this morning

The Five Finger Prayer
It is sometimes helpful to have a plan to follow when praying. The “Five Finger Prayer” is a simple but effective pattern of prayer:
The thumb is nearest you. So begin praying for those closest to you.

The pointing finger is next. Pray for those who instruct, teach, and heal, including teachers, doctors, and ministers who point others to God.

The tallest finger reminds us to pray for leaders – men and women in places of influence such as our President, business leaders, your boss – anyone in power.

The ring finger is the perfect reminder to pray for those who are weak, in trouble or in pain.

The little finger reminds you to pray for yourself.

(Author unknown)

Thursday, November 6, 2008

Finally- Can we hear a SHOUT

It has been over a week since I have had respect and obedience - oh everyone else has but me- teachers- instructors uncles aunts pastors - oh yes all of them he listens and does what he is told but not dear old mom- do you know how frustrating it is- well I am working on it- because I am teaching on Dealing with frustration and how God will help you through and what to do while dealing with the frustrations in life- God sure know how I have dealt enough with them- He always sees me through though-
Anyway- SHOUT OUT LOUD - we finally had respect and obedience today-
I am so excited and just can't hide it-

Responsible

I am so glad it is Thursday- one step closer to sleeping in - not too late though- bible quiz is happening Saturday- Although I am not sure how he is going to do cause he has not studied- I have put the responsibility on him- How hard is it to say -Please put BQ in the CD player so I can listen to it?
THis morning he asked where his clothes are- I said you need to go pick them out- why- he needs the responsibility- why because maybe he will apprecaiate me more.
Just take responsibility for your actions andif there is a consequence then deal with it and move on-
Back talk - whining complaining-hitting causes for more consequences just don not do it.
Be responsible- yes this week has been a very bumpy one
THanks T at church Wednesday Night
Thanks Gina for your advice see you Friday

Tuesday, November 4, 2008

Obedience...

Or lack of- why is it you have to tell a child 10 times to do something and in my case the child gets attitude after the 2nd time- yes maam with an attitude- ugh
Simple requests like bring your clothes to the washer or take out your garbage- is it so difficult-
How about go get your shoes on- it is time to go-no I am hungry - give me something to eat NOW- oh I do not think so. not with that type of attitude-
Is it really that hard to listen - the first time- I guess we are the same with God- I asked you to go pray for that person - this is the second time I am telling you- oh okay God I am listening

Does he get as frustrated with me as I do with Marcus- oh boy-
Forgive me God if I do this-

Help me today Lord with being obedient to your word and help me have a good attitude with Marcus cause right now I am very frustrated with him and you know the whole story-

Saturday, November 1, 2008

A Little Art Work from Marcus



He did this in art class- it is very beautiful- don't you think?

I received an AWARD- How exciting


mrshendiii sent me this award and I wanted to pass it on to other Kreativ Blogs. In order for me to do so I need to answer the following questions and then pass it on to other blogs. Here we go!

Seven Things I did Before...
1.) I was a competitve swimmer and diver
2.) Played tennis in middle school ,high school and some in college
3.) I worked at the YMCA in Venice as a childcare teacher where I received a nickname from Pastor Gary Gray and to this day am still called that when returning home
4.) I have been to Botswana and Zimbabwe
5.) Went to Victoria Falls- How beautiful
6.) I was the mascot for my high school my Senior Year and rode my horse on the field and about ran the football players over- it may have improved th egame ( sorry guys)
7.) Use barrel race- my horse and do different speed events at the local horse shows.

Seven Things I do Now...
1.) Pray
2.) Teach Sunday School
3.) Blog
4.) Be a mom- a single mom who adopted at the time a 4 1/2 year
5.) take each day at at time- sometimes it is harder then it seems
6.) Appreciate my loving support group- family- friends-teachers - coworkers ( my church family is included in the family part)
7.) Fight for special needs kids
Seven Things I Would Like to Do...
1.) Have a day to myself
2.) Get Married
3.) Travel the USA- we have a beautiful country
4.) Get another degree- counseling.
5.) See Marcus succeed in life
6.) Help others.
7.) Go back to Africa atleast one more time.

Seven Things That Attract Me to My Hubby... (well this can not be answered but this is what I would look for in a husband)
1. Loves God with all his heart-
2. Loves Children
3. That he is okay with a woman who is a leader.
4. Loves Animals
5. He is funny- and can make me laugh when I am down
6. Supports me in my goals and dreams.
7. Can love me and Marcus for who we are

Seven Favorite Foods...
1. Chocolate and PEanut Butter Ice Cream - YUMMMM!
2. Macaroni & Cheese
3. Adam's Enchiladas
4. Mashed Potatoes
5. Cabbage Rolls
6. Toms' Banana Pudding
7. Pizza

Seven Things I Say Most Often...
1. I Love You No matter what you do
2. God has a plan for you- you are a good person
3. Marcus calm down
4. Marcus - please et your anger under control
5. 1, 2, 3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10
6. I have to Believe-
7. You can Make Good Choices- I know you can
Seven People That I Want to Give This Award to...!
1. http://www.adaywithtoots.blogspot.com/
2. http://wolfblessings.blogspot.com/
3. http://thediaperheads-kellyfamily.blogspot.com/

4 Lifetime Intimate Portraits

Sorry only have 4
Enjoy Ladies!