Just Me

See That Woman?!?!?!

2012-01-24T19:20:00.000-08:00

Yes, the one on the left....She is a fabulously gorgeous, faithful incredible woman. She is my rock and my best friend. We met...well....How did we meet? Maybe it was church? I don't remember, but what I do remember were our calls after a long day at work. Here's how it went:

"Hey....what do you have in your fridge?"

"I've got....(naming anything that hadn't gathered fuzz in the back of my fridge)"

This is how many of our covnersations started. In the end we would put our leftovers togetheer to create our Hobo meals and then they would come on over and we would eat out by the pool while the kids splashed away. Or we would gather at their house for movie night. Life was a blast!!!

And then they moved.

And then we moved.

And then life happened.

And yet, we still e-mail, call, laugh, cry about our lives in general. We all have people like my friend Christine in our lives. They are the rocks we lean on when we aren't strong enough. They are the ones who can make us smile when we feel like crying. I am grateful for this woman. She stands tall with the Lord by her side. She smiles brightly when behind her eyes she is aching and hurting. She stands strong as an incredible mother who supports her son on his mission while inside she worries at him being so far away out of the country.

Today, I challenege you to think of the friends you have who serve as inspirations and are your rocks when you need them. Drop them an e-mail to let them know just how much you love them.

A New Year....A New Me!!!

2012-01-15T18:20:00.000-08:00

Nope...it has nothing to do with losing weight...though I can guarantee you it would be a wonderful thing....if it happened. No...I am thinking more of my attitude. I've always tried to keep upbeat and that has shown through, but my life is getting now in order more than anything and I am thankful for it.

I love my job at the front desk of the Residence Inn. There's nothing like knowing my job is to really get to know the guests and spend my time talking and showing them the best of San Antonio. So fun!!!

My kids are doing so well in their perspecitve classes. Yes, there are challenges. There are always challeneges, but we still push on.

School starts up again this week and I am thankful I was able to receive enough mony on my pell grant to supply me with a new computer to bring with me as I travel to and from work....oh and there is free wifi on my bus. Life is good.

So, when the challenges hit this year I will continue to push on in hopes of making this new year more fantabulous than anything. We'll see how that goes!!! It's onward and upward!!!

It's Been Awhile!!!

2011-12-21T02:59:00.000-08:00

Time flies when you've lost your mind and your life is like a runaway train...trust me...I know.

I survived yet another semester and I am halfway through my courses to get through school. I am grateful for my husband in supporting me though he doesn't understand just why I decided to go back to school. SOme days, I don't either. It's not like I am going for a Bachelor's Degree. It's just an Associates, but it gets me on the way to where I eventually want to be. We shall see how it turns out I am just hoping for the best.

Hubby is loving his new position. The best Christmas gift he received all year was from a woman who works for him at the Elementary School. She is originally from Mexico City and emigrated here and became a citizen. it has long been her dream to speak english like other Americans and she is working hard to fulfill her dream. Every few eeks or so she comes over to our house and my husband tutors her on her pronunciation. For Christmas, she wrote him a letter in english of how much she loves him and how grateful she is with his patience and support in her endeavour. Tears filled his eyes when he first read the letter. I nearly cried reading it as well. She is a sweet older woman whom my husband has a great deal of respect and admiration for.

The kids are all doing great. My oldest, Rinni, is working hard at all of her classes. I can barely beleive this next year we will be applying to colleges....Where did the time go? She is now in National Honor Society and feeling good that she belongs to something. She is into her art and enjoying every minute of it. I couldn't ask for more.

Bryan is enjoying life and getting out and having fun with some friends. He recently joined up with 18 of his friends and went to the mall. They had a great time. He is always heading out camping with the young men.

Molly....sigh....oh Molly. She is the one child that puts a lot of thought into the nonsense she writes on facebook. She has the statuses everyone waits to read and then scratches their head laughing when they read what she wrote. And with her....there is a backstory behind everything.

Workwise for me I've hit my stride. I am gearing up to work on Christmas, which is fine because they were nice enough to let me off for a week at Thanksgiving. How can I complain? I am working early, the shift I adore. I'd never ask for anything more. I am still loving my job and coming in happy every single day...unless I am not awake. As with most hotel employees....we can never remember one date to another.

Hopefully, I can blog a big later with some news that is more interesting than this, but know that I live and I breathe and I survive. Until then...Happy Blogging!!!

Do You Ever Feel Blessed?!?!

2011-12-21T00:30:00.000-08:00

My life is a hectic crazy chaotic mess....and I feel blessed.

Here I sit at the front desk passing time after completing all of my work and thinking about my children and Hubby at home snoozing away....and I feel blessed.

I feel blessed for my feet hurting at the end of the day because it means I am working at a job which I love with people I adore and learning new things while being valued in a way I've never felt before.

I feel blessed for all the twinkling lights which illuminate the Riverwalk and Alamo Plaza....I get to enjoy them everyday either coming or leaving from work.

I feel blessed when walking from my bus stop in a rainstorm. Yes, my shoes and pants are getting wet, but we need the rain here in Texas.

I feel blessed when I see my answering machine filled with calls....it means I am loved.

I feel blessed not to be able to see my toes....it means I have enough food.

I feel blessed to have my family and friends. Merry Christmas to all my blogging friends!!!

I'll Go Where You Want Me To Go....so much to be thankful for!!!

2011-11-24T19:25:00.000-08:00

For the first time in nearly three years I have the holiday completely off. I mean COMPLETELY off!!!! Amazing as it may sound I work in an industry which runs 24 hours a day 7 days a week 365 days a year. We must be there to take care of the guest. It's not a problem. I don't mind really. I simply love what I do. Period. End of Setnence. I love what I do!!!

I've been thinking lately about how much I've been blessed. Others may look at losing everything as a trial, but honestly...it has been a blessing, one after another. Looking back I can see that.

Because we have been given much we got used to having much. Losing it all, brought us back to reality. In truth, we argued about the store, the stress from the store dwelt with us 24/7 and I didn't like it. Yes, I was able to go to church every Sunday and Serve my callings easily. However, not everything in life should be easy...I never learn unless things get hard once in awhile.

When we were deciding where to move I told Hubby I wanted to live in a place with mountains, cold weather and snow.....We moved to San Antonio, Texas. Sooooo not any of those things. When we prayed over and over about different locations we were told no every single time. When we prayed about San Antonio we felt peace.....and so this is why we moved here. When we moved in I was able to pick up a new job quickly and the money started coming in. yes, our belts were tight but the bills were paid and there was food on our table.

A year after we moved into our apartment we moved again into our house....a rental we obtained from a friend both Hubby and I grew up with. He wanted soemone to live in the house he owns and pay rent and take care of the house. It has been a wodnerful move. All of our kids now go to high school together just as we did over to decades ago. So fun. Our two oldest are actually being inducted into the National Honor Society next Tuesday together. So much fun.

Hubby has earned a promotion and had his pick of schools to work for as Assistant Head Custodian. What a blessing it has been as he truly cares for the people he works with including a woman who comes over a couple times a month to help her learn english. It's awesome. I now work at the front desk at the Residence Inn next to the Alamo. It is awesome to take the bus downtown and walk along the city streets and walk past the Alamo every day. I've also gone back to school. I am working towards earning my Associate's degree before my oldest graduates from high school in 2013. So far so good. I am right on schedule. We shall see how it all goes though.

So, as I sit here with my feet up after days of cooking and planning. I am thankful for so much. I'm thankful for the headaches I get when studying late into the night and for the ability to power nap on the buses while going into work. I am thankful for the incredible people I work with and the faith they show in me. I am thankful for my sense of humor which has gotten me this far. I am thankful for Hubby and the foot massages he provides happily after I stand for 8 1/2 hours straight. I am thankful for air conditioning because with the humidity down here and the heat at 107 this summer it brought relief. I'm thankful for my children whose faith and testimonies have grown while going through all of this. I'm thankful for Hubby and our friend Bobby's rendition of "Every Rose Has It's Thorn" into the drumsticks today. I am thankful we can dance and sing "Don't Worry, Be Happy" with friends and family. For this and so much more I am grateful.

Happy Thanksgiving everyone!!!

Embrace Each Day

2011-10-04T18:12:00.000-07:00

This week I've been reminded over and over the graces of God. An older gentleman I work with is enduring the harshness of chemotherapy to beat the return of this cancer spreading through his body. As it is with these treatments his strength can only hold out for so long and when it gives out we, as his work family, need to support him and be there for him. In this case it is covering his shifts when we is to weak to make it through. In my case it was giving up days off. As with always there are twists you never expect.

As you work overnight, when you are used to sleeping, it takes time for your body toadjust and jumping back and forth from day to night it can be almost unbearable. Sunday morning as I was driving home I nearly fell asleep several times as I sped down the highway. Too scary for me. The next night i decided to tke the bus...no fear in that commute home. My manager told me that she would make sure I would get Monday off so I could sleep and recover....and then called several hours later. The coworker who was supposed to work the late night shift had to call off. his mother had a stroke....and I needed to step in. Again....I made my way into work, much to the surprise of Hubby when he came home to find me gone. He called laughingly requesting reservations....uh not funny.

However, another friend from the reservation center spent a few hours talking to me as I processed the paperwork. He told me he had cancer and being morbidly obese he was struggling. He is due for surgery soon. He sat while we spoke of the love of our Savior. Though he isn't of my faith we've held many deep talks and had a friendship that has become so amazingly important to me. When he came to visit he brought something he said reminded him of me. It is a new cutsie little lunch bag with a fabulouso black and white pattern embroidered with the phrase "Embrace Each Day" in Raspberry pink. It is so cute. He told me that is the one thing he remembers about me with all of his doctor visits and treatments. He has chosen to embrace each day of his life and we both made a pact to continue to embrace the highs and lows of our lives and pull ourselves closer to the Lord.

Whatever obstacles we face we need to embrace the love around us....embrace the strength of the Lord....and embrace our own selves, the good and the bad....but just embrace ourselves.

Bestie....

2011-09-26T12:39:00.000-07:00

Almost a decade ago...I had a tough time. Hubby was travelling 3 weeks out of the month and I was attempting to manage life with my 3 itty bitty ones who were all in diapers. I was drifitng away in a sea of depression and searching for a life preserver....someone or something to hold onto.

I reached out on the internet to find a friend....Someone I could connect to and write... a penpal of sorts. I ended up meeting a woman whom I may never meet but I carry in my heart. it seems strange to say my best friend in the world lives an ocean away deep in the heart of Scotland....and we have never met.

She and I both belong to the same faith. We talk about church, scriptures, conference talks. We talk about our lives, our ups, our downs. We talk of our challenges and our triumphs. Many times we have wondered just how come we could be such good friends and be so far apart. I mused perhaps we were inseperable in the pre-existance and in this life we were to learn to stand on our own two feet...but Heavenly Father couldn't bear to keep us completely apart and helped us find our way to each other over the internet. It could be true...it may not.

Next month it will be 12 years since we began writing and we are still hoping at some point we will meet face to face and I can finally hug the friend I've held constantly in my heart over the years. Until then....I will continue the tapping away at my keys and keeping in contact with my friend, my sister.

10 Years Later....

2011-09-11T12:17:00.000-07:00

To most who really know me, nothing affects me for the most part. I put on a strong front even when I am aching inside. 10 years ago when the first plane struck I was stunned and struck to the very core. It was the hardest thing for me to take my two kids to school and drop them off as if it were any other day. Afterwards, I cried while holding my youngest in my arms. Hubby wasn't home. He was travelling for work and sat up in Seattle in a hotel near the Space Needle. He called early...he was coming home. When the second plane hit my heart nearly stopped. I watched the drama unfold and things falling from the tower, only later to find out they were people jumping to avoid the fire on their floor. I cried more and felt very lonely. Hubby instantly wanted to join the military, but at that time they told him he was too old. He was heartbroken.

Years later Hubby and I found ourselves travelling in Italy. Yo be honest I hadn't paid attention to the date when I initially booked the trip, but we were in Tuscany on September 11th jsut a few years ago. The day after we took a train into Venice for a couple days. As we arrived at the train station we emerged to find this beautiful statue and several tea light candles sitting at the base in honor of Americans and to show support. I was so touched by the tribute that I cried. This time because I felt the love and support of the world for us. Several locals figuring out we were Americans approached and gave us hugs as we all cried.

Ten years later I am not still not able to watch the tributes. The pain remains too fresh in my heart. I know what happened and I haven't given in to the fear those terrorists tried to instill. Instead I cling to my country and the love we as strangers have for one another. We may not have one thing in common, but as Americans we stand together, hand in hand with friends around the world against the evils which lurk. Together we stand in honor of those who lost their life in a useless attack.

Not in My Job Description....

2011-09-09T17:34:00.000-07:00

At least it wasn't in my job description until yesterday. Life has been...well....let's just say it hasn't been dull. Yesterday was my first solo flight taking the helm of the front desk. As it always seems to happen....the most unusual circumstances...something to throw my wolrd into a psycho dizzy whirl....as usual. I came into work and my Supervisor pulled me aside and explained one of our guests was having a very tough time. His life took a tailspin turn discovering his wife was leaving himm and his mother passed away all at once. He turned to alcohol and we watched sadly as he stumbled through the lobbby on the way back to his room. Soon, his coworkers came more amd more aware as his new habit had taken a toll on his ability to do his job. His manager was notified and we found ourselves hosting a full fledged intervention right there at work. All went well when the managers were there, but as they returned home and dwindled he returned from going out for dinner and obviously more than a few drinks. When he tried to place a few more small bottles of wine on the counter my security guard, Art and I confronted him. I refused to sell him any more alcohol. He burst out into tears. He held my hand. We consoled him. We prayed with him. We boosted him up. We gave him the one thing he needed.....love.So, my job description now, includes Intervention Specialist....and according to my GM...a good soul.

At Summer's End...

2011-08-25T20:02:00.000-07:00

Summer has now come to an end and the kids are back in school. All I can say is : "Thank Goodness!!!!"

Now, I know what you're all saying.... "That's not a good attitude!" However, when you have 3 teens who constntly suck down every single bit of the groceries you've purchased 15 minutes earlier in one single gulp. When they complain there is nothing to do, they want to go somewhere, they want to do something. SIgh...they drive me crazy. This year, I shipped all three off to EFY for a week together. It was one quiet week at my house....which was great consiering I'd started my new job. Here are a few of the highlights:

Corinna is my sixteen year old who is now allowed to date, but has yet to find anyone that will uphold her standards, but she finds many ways to have a great time with friends. She loved EFY as well as Young Women's Camp. She also fell in love with Scripture study this summer.

Bryan is growing up fast and striving in his callings at church and I find myself thinking of the mothers of the 2,000 Stripling Warriors and how they must've felts as their sons aged being brought up in the church an seeing the spirit rest easily upon their shoulders....and I am grateful to be his mother. And yes, He loved EFY and Scout Camp as well.

And then there was Molly....Oh me oh my Molly!!! I adore her, she is my baby after all...and yes...all of their eyes are really that blue. She was able to go to EFY for the first time this summer. She had a blast and enjoyed hanging out with a bunch of girls who were all like her. She had a blast at Young Women's Camp as well and she was even sweet enough to bing an extra fan to her sister at camp....it wasa 107 degrees all week while they were there, but luckily they had cabins to sleep in. No AC but ability to plug in a fan is a good thing for the cabin.

So.....summer is over and I a ready for it to be over.....though it's supposed to be 110 degrees on Saturday. Sigh...now if the weather wouldsimply agree with us!!!

A Glimmer....

2011-08-14T19:11:00.000-07:00

Sunday morning rolled around early... too early. We were expected to be at a meeting at 9am for seminary for the kids. We woke up at 8:30am and knew we weren't going to make it to that meeting. Hubby rolled over happy to fall back asleep and be lazy....it is Stake Conference after all. MORMON HOLIDAY!!!! Just kidding. With all my struggles. I actually made everyone get out of bed and start getting ready. I dragged them to Stake Conference and made them come with smiling faces.

And we sat....in the hard chairs. UGH! I figured 30 minutes would be enough to make it and get a good seat...but alas!!! No!!! I sat listening to the talks, trying to gain whatever spiritual glimpse I could get. At the end of the two hour block, I felt a glimmer....a spark....burning in my heart as the Stake President spoke. And for that small glimmer that lasted 5 seconds at the most....it was worth it.

Encouraging Insanity

2011-08-11T17:56:00.000-07:00

My job...encourages my insanity. I am encouraged to have fun with my job and complete some pleasant surprises for the guests checking in. We have one guest....dear Mr Erwin. Mr Erwin wasn't feeling well today. I asked him if there was anythign I could do to help him and he turned me down. Instead he walked away and went to work. Not willing to sit by I took a Get Well Soon card and wrote him a little message:

"Mr. Erwin, I hope you feel better, so we can have a "ball" again soon!!" Again offering any assistance if he needs anything. The card was accompanied by a fully inflated beach ball to great him as he came in.

Later he came back. I again told him to let me know if he needs anything. He said he would be fine. About 20 minutes later he emerged from his room and came downstairs for a nice cup of tea. He looked at me with a smile on his face. He said :"You are a sweetheart. Thank you for making me smile...I needed it."

Mission Accomplished.....AND my insanity carried on. My manager thought it was great and told me to keep a look out for anyone else I can help. I love it!

Waiting.....

2011-08-08T22:17:00.000-07:00

Do you ever find yourself waiting? Waiting for a bus? Waiting at the checkout stand? Just waiting?

That's where I'm at right now. Tonight I am blogging from the fabuloso employee lounger here at the Residence Inn near the Alamo. My shift ended an hour ago and now I sit and wait for hubby to swing by after his shift and pick me up. Today he started back to the late hours, a sure sign that school is about to re-start as he is a custodian. He will be off work in fifteen minutes and will then head over to pick me up....if he remembers. Will he remember?! There is no guarantee.

This is yet another problem with having only one car in the family. However, this is the only night this week I am working late. Tomorrow, I have to be here bright and early for a training class. Hubby offered me to stay overnight, but I declined. The last thing I need to do is spend the night at work.

So, I am catching up on e-mail, paying the bills, making sure none of my kids are on Facebook this time of night...typicfal Mom stuff.

What do you do while you are waiting?

How Do I Fall In Love With Church Again?!?!

2011-08-07T11:44:00.000-07:00

This move has been a good one on so many levels, but challenging on far too many others. My first year here I attended church perhaps 10....maybe 12 times. The rest of my family attended every Sunday. That distance from church weighs heavily on a person's soul.

Since changing my position I find myself being able to attend church more often. My problem? I've lost all my heart and love for it. I found myself no enjoying the sweet music declaring praises to our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ. I know at some point I will, but does anyone have any suggestions on how to fall in love with church again?

On Sacred Ground...

2011-07-29T19:52:00.000-07:00

The one bonus to working downtown is the route I come into work. As you all know, the bus is my main form of transportation. I come into the downtown area and I walk...I'm early and I have plenty of time to wander and explore. AND before you ask...wnadering the streets so early in the morning is more than safe in San Antonio. There are so many security guards getting off duty for the night you never need worry. Besdies, Texas is the land of people carrying their own guns....totally safe. Even though we are the 7th largest city in the US we really have a small town feel when it comes to the people. Enough said!!!

Back to the thought at hand. As I walk in to work I end up passing the Alamo every single workday I come in. As I walk along the Alamo walls I run my fingers across the lichen covered walls. I will never forget the phrase: "Remember the Alamo!" That battle cry passes through my mind whenever I go into work. No, my job is nothing like a battle. I will admit this much. However, I remember to do my best in whatever situation I might find myself. Not with guns, but a smile and kindness do I use for my battles. All in all it is a good thing in rememberance of the valiant men who lined the broders of an American Icon.

GONE.....

2011-07-26T16:03:00.000-07:00

Gone....is my sanity
Gone....are my kids
Gone....are my old friends at work
Gone....is my comfort zone
Gone....is my monstro commute

I AM SOOOOOO THANKFUL!!!!

Seriously, my commute is amazing compared to what I used to deal with. When I am off work...I walk to my bus stop, I get to the transit center and my next bus is almost there. Then the long walk home.

My kids? Oh they're off having fun at EFY and I am thrilled they get some downtime away from the computer, away from Mom & Dad but still in a structured environment.

New job? Loving it!!! I am completely enjoying what I do and loving the fact that I can transfer all reservations calls to the Res Center I came from. Oh yeah!!! Life is good!!! I've got a plan and I am looking forward to learning even more. Best of all....I see Heavenly Father's plan unfolding....and I am grateful!!!!

Taking a Deep Breath....

2011-07-24T14:05:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow is going to be a different sort of day....to be sure.

I start my new position tomorrow at the front Desk of the Residence Inn. It should be interesting, and FUN. Oh yeah, Fun to learn something new, to get to know new people and have new faces to greet every single day. It sounds like I'm joining a wonderful crew as everyone I spoke to in my office sung praises to the people I am being blessed to work with. So, at 4am I will wake and shower, prepare my lunch and then head off on the bus for my first short commute.

No more 3 1/2 hour commutes each way...it's now 1 1/2 hours total. SWEET!!!

Tonight, however, I will say good night to all three of my kids for the last time until Saturday. Tomorrow after I am at work and starting my new leraning process, Hubby will embark on his own adventure to take all three kids and drop them off at EFY.

Tomorrow night when I come home the house will be empty and I won't have to worry about cooking dinner for everyone, cleaning up after anyone, except Hubby. I am frightened by the concept of not having all of them around. I'll enjoy a bit more of the quiet and not having to hear any of them saying: "Can I go on Facebook?"

Tomorrow, will be a bittersweet day....good thing Hubby is taking me to the movies, to take my mind off it all, because at some point I'm going to have to exhale.

Hiatus....

2011-07-23T14:14:00.000-07:00

Yes...I've been on hiatus for awhile. My mind has gone 5 bajillion miles a inute and it seemed as if my life had been rushing right past my head at incredible speeds. It has finally slowed a bit and changes have been made in my life.....hopefully for the better.

First and formeost my biggest change has been my workplace. I am still within the Marriott system, but have interviewed....another 5 bajillion times....for various positions in hopes of disconnecting myself from the computer. I know, I know.....it's not a bad job. I also know many of you love to chat on the phone. However, when you are paid to talk on the phone for 8 hours a day with barely a chance to take a sip of water in between your incoming calls...it can become fairly tedious. So, I've applied and was accepted to transfer into a front desk position at the beautiful Residence Inn Downtown Alamo Plaza. Yes, I will walk past the Alamo twice as I walk to and from work. Yes, I will still put a pleasant smile on my face as I greet each of the guests and provide information as well as directions to various areas of San Antonio. However, my commute to and from work has also shrunk considerably. Instead of 3 1/2 each way on the bus to work, I will commute 1 1/2 hours each way to and from work. Much better!!!!

This alone will save my sanity. Not only that I will be able to finally learn different haspects of the hotel industry that I've not had a chance to learn up till now. That is a wonderful bonus!! My hours will change considerably. For example. All the week I am working 7-3pm. Instead of the crazy hours I've worked in the past there are truly only a couple hsifts I will deal with. Everyone takes turns working the later shift from 3-11pm. We all rotate through and take our chances. For the most part we work 7-3pm...as that is the busiest portion of the day.

Saying good-bye was difficult yesterday as chances are I will enver work with the poeple I've gotten to know so well. I became a bit tearful as I walked into work finding a banner above the normal desk I sit, wishing me well. At lunchtime I was surprised as a cake was brought out that my teammates had donated money to buy. And it was delicious!!! By the time I left I was nearly in tears as everyone and I mean everyone was hugging me and wishing me well. Our HR director stopped by to tell me how excited she is for me new position because she knows I will do fabulously well there. Every manager stopped by to wish me well and give me encouragemnt. I was so thankful. I was excited as ever as each of them gave me glowing reports of the management and the team I will be working with.

I see the Lord's hand in all of this. At times in these many interviews I've wondered if I was getting any help from above as I pleaded in preayer for help with the interview process....always without an answer. I was needing to be patient and wait until this time to work with this team to work these hours. This is what makes me most emotional. To think with every other problem on this earth, my employment and happiness meant something to Heavenly Father. I've found the four hardest words to utter in my life are: "I know I matter."

Therapy Needed....

2011-03-24T20:20:00.000-07:00

So, being that walking is still not my forte so to say, I am still stuck in my blasted chair. I've forced myself to walk around the block even though afterwards I can't walk. I simply hobble around here and there. Anyway, more to the point...having three teenagers the first thing they ask as they come on in from school: "Can I go on Facebook?!" How can I not have fun with them?!?!?!

When my dearest Bee walked in she asked me her fatal question. To which I replied:

"Absolutely.....after you touch my scab." Devious me smiled and she danced for nearly 20 minutes. I was nearly in tears laughing so hard tryingto catch my breath. I was unable to tell her I was simply joking before she danced her way over and gently touched all the while cringing...

Yes, my daughter will now need therapy for the rest of her life....because I am her mother.

"Cast" Away

2011-03-17T13:45:00.000-07:00

No, I am not sitting on a deserted island, though it is Spring Break and my two girls are PMSing big time so it does sound quite tempting, My cast was removed on Tuesday. I thought I'd be up and running and all would be fine....Boy was I wrong!!!

The cast was removed and I was left with a foot wrapped and bandaged. Needling to leave it for 48 hours without unconvering it I found myself dying to see my foot and how bad it was. Now I regeret it. Why did I even want to look?

If you are queasy I suggest you forward past the picture coming

May I present: "FRANKENFOOT!!!!"

Yup, it used to be a cute little foot. So "little" is strestching it a bit. I confess, I'm a size 10. Anyway, I no longer have a simple normal foot. No it's a huge scarred mass of footage. Bummer.

I'm looking forward to walking with less and less pain as the time goes on. It's a good thing to know I'm almost done with this. There is a light at the end of the tunnel.

Ahhh Yesterday.....

2011-03-09T17:21:00.001-08:00

I felt a bit more human yesterday as I slept in a bit longer and for the first time in two and half weeks I got up, showered, and got dressed in my truly adorable suit I bought a month earlier. Now, I will tell you I've bathed every single day, but this is the first time I've dressed up for the day. Hubby got home from picking the kids up from seminary and dove under the covers to snag 8 hours before needing to leave for work later that afternoon.

Me?!

I was on my way downtown for an interview. By all means I am soooo a Marriott girl for life and would love to stay with this company until I retire, but for a different position on property. I was able to get myself in the position to be interviewed for a high profile position in the property. At this property over 1,000 groups come through every year. Only 6 poeple coordinate these groups and create the groups in the system. They are the ones that deal with the clients and are there to greet the groups as they come in. I love the thought of working with a close knit group. I love the fact that I am responsible for the clients as they come in and my job is to make sure their group's visit is memorable enough to bring them back next time. One problem....I am one of 5 interviewing. I think I rocked the interview and was brought up to meet everyone in the group. Now I simply have to wait until the decision is made....beginning of next week, they said.

Of course, I've been through enough interviews to simply say...."We'll see"

All I can ask is prayers...this is a monday through friday position with few appearances on the weekend required. Church attendance every week would be VERY possible.

Less than 4 months and Counting...

2011-03-07T13:49:00.000-08:00

I never really thought about it...Who does?! It almsot sounds like a dirty word to so many. I was recently at my daughter's school a young girl was telling her girlfriend that she would rather be shot than turn 30. I stifled my laughter as my daughter and I rolled our eyes. 30 is when you're just tarting to live. You know what the world is like and you simply don't care. You are who you are and that's all there is to it

My 20's were years that tested my mental health as I struggled with my identity. being a bride and mother at the age of 21 was difficult yet not altogether impossible. having 3 kids in 3 years sent me nearly over the edge. Looking back...I was weak. I wouldn't change a thing. I am who I am and that's all I can say.

This year, July 1st, I am celebrating my age. I am stepping out a woman of distinction in knowing what I want. Many women shy away from 40. They believe it's halfway to the grave. But I declare 40 to be the greatest age on earth. I will celebrate the woman I've become after staggering through some mind numbing trials and some incredibly beautiful triumphs.

So what do you think?! Is 40 beautiful or what?!?!?

Field Trip...Texas Style!!!

2011-03-05T14:42:00.000-08:00

If there's one thing you learn living in Texas is that it's not unusual to drive an hour or more to reach a good barbecue place. And Oh Yeah!!! We found just the spot to hit the spot.

Black's Barbecue in Lockhart, Texas.

The biggest draw is their Brisket and Homemade Suasage Links. Filling up your plate is a new concept. You grab a tray and a plate. Side dishes are extra and you buy your meat by the pound. Sausage links are ordered by the link. Don picked up 2 lbs of brisket and 5 homemade sausages, 2 regular, 2 garlic and 1 jalapeno. So yummy!!!!

Much to my kids' dismay I've been enjoying the Brendan Fraser marathon of movies this past week. No...I didn't write a long e-mail to the station asking for all the Brendan Fraser they could give me.....3 movies in 2 days. SuhWeet!!! I enjoy action and comedy rolled into one. So...yeah...I love the Mummy movies and saw Journey to the Center of the Earth for the first time last night. I so needed to laugh...this not walking thing is going to send me over the edge!!!

Well, have a Rip Roarin' Day!!!!

Gimpalooski and Other Thoughts...

2011-03-02T04:26:00.000-08:00

All right, so after meeting with my fabulously incredilbe doctor who has singlehandedly removed the horrid pain from my foot and replaced it with a healing pain, which I find frighteningly bearable I am doing fairly well. I still gimp around and resemble Sir Gimp-A-Lot, but whatever, the lack of pain I was used to is gone and that's all that matters.

School is going fairly well. I am frustrated in some classes but soaring in others. Who knew when you really care about going to school it could go so easily. I am in a huge battle with my oldest to graduate with a degree, albiet an Associate's Degree, but a degree nonetheless, before she receives her high schoo, diploma. I've got time as she is only a sophmore. Secretly, she told me she wants to be there at my graduation and if I graduate after she is off to college there's a chance she won't be there. So, that is why I push. I look forward to a summer without classes and enjoy some off time before picking up again in the fall. We shall see how it all goes. I will continue to push on the way I need to to amke it on through,but as long as I don't start some Charlie Sheen rants I am counting myself as all right.

Seriously, he has made my job as a parent easy.....See kids, this is what taking drugs does to you. After watching his tirades and pouting I feel sort of sorry for the guy. How could he have gotten THAT screwed up. He is one of our Father in Heaven's children after all. How could his friends and family let him get to that point without trying to intervene. Or perhaps they did, but couldn't succeed. It's a sad testament to the world. Satan is still out there...and he is real.

I am thrilled to announce all three of my kids are signed up to go to EFY this year together, but seperately. Does that even make sense? Anyway, they are going to be here in San Antonio, but simply have a week on their own in a wonderful program. They'll also each have a week of camp going on. For the girls...they'll be home a day and a half before heading off to camp. Now that'll be interesting....that's for sure. I think they'll have a great time and some great experiences this summer. Never dull I must say...never dull.

Other than that I am simply wasting my time online...annoying my friends on facebook . My only job right now is to take the kids to seminary. I enjoy it...though I ahve to peel myself out of bed so early....at least I can take a nap in the morning. it's a good thing. A very good thing methinks.

Have a great day everyone!!!

I Really Am Here!!!

2011-02-21T17:26:00.000-08:00

Well, my life has slowed down for the moment. I find myself in a situation I'm not used to. I am off work for a minimum of 3 weeks, but find myself grateful I chose to have disability insurance both short term and long term. The Lord always knows what we need even when we don't. This foot situation is a long time coming. I've had a pain in my foot I've tried to ignore for over 5 years. Think of it as having a knife shove into your heel everytime you take a step. Uh...yeah....and I ignored it. Anyway, I FINALLY went under the knife today and I am on the road to the mend.

I'm also in the middle of my first semester back at school. I've found it a hard transition back. I'm not used to studying like I used to back in school. I'm doing very well in some classes and struggling in others. We shall see what happens there, but I will defintiely try not to be a stranger on this blog any longer.

Day 7....Check!!!

2010-12-13T16:52:00.000-08:00

It was a busy week. My last day off was a week ago today and I finished the long week with a splash....more like a shiver.

I've had training all week and realized just how spoiled I was.

Point and Click!!!

That's all we do. Move the little arrow and click where we want to look at the screen. Brilliant right?!?!?

NO!!!!
Not when you have to go back to learning a DOS program....

Uh yeah!!! High tech job that I have leeaves me on 5 screens at once during the day. You'd think I'd know how to land a jumbo jet, but that perhaps is left for a later time....or the fact that I have no less than 12 login ids and 12 various passwords just to start work.

FABULOUS!!!!

The result?!?!? Happy people because i am now turned into a one stop shop for them. The cream of the crop of our guests call one number and get everything handled by one person...Me.

BTW.....Did you know Paris Hilton is a Marriott Rewards member?

No...I'm not lying!!!

Anyway, With training my days off got switched leaving me with 7 straight days of work. Ugh...really?!?! Do I have to?!?

So, I survived. I made it through my days and smiled the entire time. And now...I am in recovery for one day. Hubby will rub my feet, draw me a bath and even pour bath salts in ready to make me one happy woman.

Yeah, right!!!

Have a great day all!!!!

Dearest Friends & Strangers,

2010-12-08T16:22:00.000-08:00

It's been a long time. The move went well and we are now completely settled...with the exception of the two giant boxes in my bedroom I refuse to unpack. I've now given up my "cushy" job of working at home and commute again back into work. My job is now about 17 miles away which means by bus it takes me no less than 2 1/2 hours to get to or from work...IF I catch all of my buses....a bit longer if I miss any connections. I missed seeing actual human beings who didn't start their life in my womb. Actual face to face conversation is worth a great deal to someone who succumbs easily to depression.

I sit here at my bus stop, nearly a mile walk from my front door, at 5 am waiting for my first of three buses to begin my daily epic trek to and from work. I spend about 6 hours a day either on a bus or waiting for a bus. The blessing...I get to stand on an incredible old bridge at the Riverwalk each day enjoying the sunrise in the city and soaking in the vibe there....I love it!!! All in all In walk 5 miles each day.

Work-wise I've kept busy. I've been in training one day with two more to go. I am learning the Marriott Rewards system in three days proving myself more valuable to the company. My group I am in...which has worked with Resorts for over a year and a half since I've been on the team. We're now taking care of Platinum guests...you know, the ones that spend 1/3 of the year under the roof of one of our hotels. They bring in the money for us. AND now I am doing Marriott Rewards itself. Our group is so specialized we are the only group in the world that is handling so much...OH! And we are also booking the entire Autograph Collection by Marriott....when you call the 800 number that is....and if you want to see some incredible properties check those puppies out!!!

And for some reason it wasn't enough on my plate. I'm also going back to school full time. Yup!!! Fulltime along with working full time. What was I thinking? I have no idea to be honest except I've got a Pell Grant which is paying for it so why not. in fact, my oldest and I are currently having a race to diplomas. Who will get theirs first? She is getting her high school diploma and me my Associates....I'll beat her by 3 weeks if all pans out correctly....We'll see.

My fabulous foot is still here...causing me pain with each step. it has been decided that I need surgery but being that it will cause me not to be paid for one week and paying $350 I've put it on the back burner until our taxes come in and we can afford to let me take a week off. until then...I smile and endure it.

Thankfully through all the craziness I call my life the kids are doing remarkably well. Ages 13,14 & 15 now they are keeping busy with school and church activities. With one car being used at all times I am thankful that their church leaders pick them up for mutual and activities since our car is always gone. The older two are also excited as their high School varisty football team is in the State semifinals playing at the Alamodome this Saturday. if they win the team will take the trek up to Dallas to play at the Dallas Cowboy's stadium. And in the land of "Friday night Lights" THAT's saying something.

In this crazy holiday season I call my life I wish you all the peace I feel in my heart when I think of the Savior. i wish you the happiness I feel in my heart when I see my children standing upright before the Lord. I wish you the knowledge to know that what you want is normally not what you need. And most of all I wish smiles and laughter for your family throughout the holidays.

Merry Christmas to All!!!

it's Official!!!

2010-09-09T16:51:00.000-07:00

It's actually quite scary. Not Freddy Kruger scary or anything like that, but going back after soooo long. I'm happy to announce though, with thanks to a fabulously supportive hubby and friends I am going back to school. Yup! i am going back to earn my Associates Degree. Afterwards, I will focus on obtaining my Bachelor's Degree. I've received word that I am being given a Pell Grant and will more than likely start the beginning of next year. I still have to get all of my items in for that semester, but I am grateful right now that everything is falling into place.

So....Yes, changes are a foot, but good changes.

Changes....

2010-09-07T16:52:00.000-07:00

Changes are hard on everyone. Some shy away from the changes and others embrace them head on. Me? I hope for the best and expect the worst. Changing from the apartment to the house...definitely a good decision. I will never regret that one. Seeing the kids outside playing frisbee with my friend's family. Knowing that we all went to high school together and now our kids are going to high school together. When we graduated Bobby myself and all of our friends went on vacation and experienced hawaii for the first time. I roomed with my bestie...he roomed with his. We had a blast and it never fails to bring up the trip in the conversation when the four of us are sitting around talking about old times.

Now our sons are planning their graduation trip. they want to head up to Alaska to do some sightseeing and hiking. It's a good thing. We both have some kids getting ready to head off to college in the next few years. Change is good in this instance.

At work, it was recently announced that our Resort team will be merging with the Platinum team. What does that mean? Well, not only will we handle our resorts calls but we will also take care of our elite Platinum members (those who spend 75+ nights per year in a Marriott). It is a huge change and honestly is a bit frightening to most of us. We really don't know what to expect. What we do know is that we will all struggle a bit in the beginning and afterwards we will all be fine. Smart businesses evolve looking for ways to take care of their customer's needs. This is one way we're planning on doing it. Training will be taking palce before we'll don our new name....the Luxury Team. I don't know about you, but I like the sounds of that.

As for the rest of our lives changes are on the horizon...some of which i will keep under my hat for now just in case they fall through. I do know one thing. It is a good thing, that's for sure.

Photo Shoot Day

2010-08-19T15:43:00.000-07:00

I spent the afternoon with my girls taking pictures…and forcing my son to a few pics himself.
Here’s what beautiful teens I have walled up in my house. Somebody get the shotguns ready!!!

Miss Molly Bee…My 13year old

Bryan…my 14 year old doing his best Anakin Skywalker impression

Corinna…my 15 year old being as gorgeous as ever.

Happy Birthday Molly!!!

2010-08-19T15:38:00.000-07:00

Oh yeah….3 teens in my house at once. We’ll see if we survive, but Molly never has been one to be ordinary…she extraordinary. She asked me before her birthday NOT to bake a cake for her. Oh no!! The child wanted simply a giant cookie.
One giant chocolate chip cookie.
Is she nuts or what?!?!
Not really…I am.
Why?!
Because I was determined to bake this giant cookie when at my best I can count on one hand the number of times I have successfully baked a regular batch of chocolate chip cookies without burning half the batch.
I heated up my pizza stone…oh how I love my dear sweet pizza stone. I gobbed the dough over the warm stone and put it in the oven. Then I prayed…prayed big time that I wouldn’t fail. I’d gambled all or nothing. Here’s what happened:

SUCCESS!!!!

Happy Birthday Bee!!!

WELCOME HOME....

2010-08-19T15:32:00.000-07:00

Did I tell you we moved? Oh yeah…we moved. One day of insane craziness and we made it in.
My friend/landlord bought the paint in the colors specified and I have to say…some have been rendered speechless. My poor Sister-In-Law walked in, who absolutely loves the soothing feel of lighter colors. Not a word crossed her lips for the first few moments. We laugh about it. It was hysterical.
I never thought I would paint my living room…RED!!!! Oh yeah!!!
Think red brick red….or as the Home Depot Paint Guru calls:
“ROCK N ROLL RED!!!!”

I love it!!! A good friend came over and saw the living room when it was done and loved it. The reaction was incredible. Seriously, it literally makes you smile walking in. With all the trim in an elegant white it blends beautifully. Gorgeous!!! I am in love. I can’t wait until Christmas. It will be magical!!!
So, my dear friends…enjoy my pics of the new house and always know….my door’s open.

A Whole New Day

2010-08-12T14:50:00.000-07:00

The good news...my house is painted...and it nearly matches my door. Nearly I say, because my living room is a deep shade of red. I haven't been able to get my photos up and online yet, but i will once I have some free time. I have to say...Red- I LOVE it!!! It's so vibrant and warm. Definitely a fun color. My poor sister-in-law, who is very much a lover of light colors, walked in and tried so hard to think of something positive. I laughed. It's all right. Red rooms are not for everyone. My neighbors LOVED it as well. It was simply just a fun color to play with and it looks great with our furniture as well. I can hardly wait until Christmas...it's sooooo going to be fun.

I spent this morning wandering around the Riverwalk area here in San Antonio. I love it. It's so peaceful and soothing to walk along the banks....especially when you have a job interview looming. Yes, I still love my job, but I am looking to advance off the phones and get into a property. I spoke with a beautiful woman today who interviewed me for a fabulous job of a Conference Concierge. I am so thrilled with the hopes of getting this job. The bus actually drops me off directly in front of the hotel....AND it wouldn't take the same 4 hour long trek to make it home. 45 minutes and that's it!!! However, this was simply the first interview. If I make the cut I will go in for the second interview in the next couple weeks. I am hoping and praying because this one is day hours and mostly weekdays with occasional weekends. I can go back to church for the most part. I am hoping and praying, but whatever happens happens and I will continue to look for something to fit my schedule.

But tell me.....

Could you blame me for wanting to work in this environment?!

Ever Have One of Those Days?!?!

2010-08-09T20:19:00.000-07:00

*************WARNING!!!!!!***************

Post may be graphic!!! It was a bad day...Readers who are squeamish may want to skip this post!!!!

Now that I got that out of the way I feel much better!!!
So I was starting back to work and needed to take the bus on in. It was a meet and greet for the newest Luxury Hotel in Waikiki. Amazing truly!!! I would LOVE to stay here. I needed to be thee. My stats have also been hectic crazy and stunk so i am going into the office anyway. I began my trek at 5am waking up and out the door to my first bus stop by 5:30am. After a shot 20 minute walk I amde it to the bus stop and waited for just about 10 minutes before I climbed on board. It brought me to my fist transfer at the transit center...then off to downtown and the RiverWalk area. I have to say, I truly love the RiverWalk. It is an amazing place with a great vibe. Old buildings, a meandering river and my bus breaks down. I can either wait for an hour for the next bus to come by or I can head back home....I head home. I get home at 8:33am...I'm supposed to start work at 8:30am. Life sucks now!!! Not to mention the fact that my cycle is in full Niagara Falls mode and I am literally dying. Hubby runs me to work I call and end up 45 minutes late. I make it in time for my meeting though and luckily for me I end up walking away with a beach towel. I work the rest of my shift in terror because I was lateand my stats are stinking so bad there is a chance I will lose my job over this. From there I finish the rest of my shift getting ready to leave and head to the bus stop. I am none too thrilled because of my experience earlier in the day....and I've just leaked all ove our office chairs that are covered in fabric....I SUCK!!!! A co-worker then is sweet enough to give me a ride to the bus stop which is about 2 miles down the road. I wait for the bus and realize I've just stepped in dog doo.

ARE YOU KIDDING ME?!?!?!

I then climb on the bus and suddenly realize I should've crossed the highway and grabbed the bus on the other side...I've now added an extra hour onto my commute. I then wait and head to the darkest reaches of San Antonio and transfer to the next bus. At this point my Ipod is running out of power and I've watched 2 movies already. Oh yeah!!! Two full movies!!!

I switch to my next bus, my foot still smells like dog poop, I am praying my pad holds until I get home, and I have no idea where I am. This next bus keeps me on it for another 1 1/2 hours crossing town slower than a turtle after smoking marijuana. Getting more and more upset now. By the time I make it to the final transit station where I am waiting for my bus I run to the bathroom and find out I look like I've performed a home surgery. Thank heavens I was wearing black. I climb on my last bus. I make it home...

Oh yeah...and I forgot...I haven't had my surgery yet so my foot is killing by now. I get off the bus and begin walking the final 20 minutes to home only to be bothered by a couple of little girls trying to sell kittens for $75 each. I was kind...surprised but kind. By the time I make i all the way home walkingin the humidity and it is over a hundred degrees I've made a journey from work that lasted...

DRUM ROLL PLEASE!!!!!!!!!

4 HOURS!!!!!! That's right...4 stinking long hours. needless to say I googled a map and found a much better route with 2 express busses which I now take and get home within 1 1/2 hours. Much better.

The moral to the story?!?!?!

Hmmm....I can't really think of any at this point, but I was thankful for my two feet I had and even though I had pain I could walk where I needed to walk....though I think I could've walked directly home in 4 hours. Just a thought!!!

Vacation Days & Lesson Learned...

2010-07-20T07:16:00.000-07:00

It's here!!!! Glorious days are here again!!! it's vacation time!!! And yet, I'm going nowhere....for the most part.

Yesterday I had a very productive day of washing the car in the car this morning before it became hotter than the sun outside, making two batches of sourdough bread, making a new pair of pajamas for one kid out of fabric I'd planned on over a year ago. I entertained our neighborhood kids and got in a chick flick...it's all good!!!

Today's agenda...a little bit slower. I am heading out for a job interview. I still love what I do but at the same time I have an opportunity to jump for something. It's a position at a competitor's property to work the in-house reservations system. the job is Monday - Friday with weekends and evenings off with my kids. That would mean I could get back to church...which I desperately need. Hubby can drop me off in the morning and I can find my way back after an only 45 minute ride on the bus instead of 2 1/2 hours. Quite a difference don't you think?! I sure do!!! The pay doesn't change.

So, here's what I learned....#1 It was nearly a miracle I made it into Marriott as I've seen many try over and over again and not be accepted. Heavenly Father MUST have his hand in it. Now, after a year and moving into a house and living across from some terrific friends...this job post comes open. This company is about as easy to get into as Marriott. My friend applied for the same position having over 20 years experience working in a call center and working at Southwest Airlines...travel business experience. She couldn't even get an interview. It's crazy the way they pick the people to interview. I don't udnerstand it at all, but I've learned to accept the good Lord offers us a path and it is our choice whether or not to accept it. There's really no stress involved today because I already have a job right now doing the exact same things they are expecting their new hire to do. The main difference is weekends with my family and being home at night with my family as well. I'll update after the interview to let you all know how it went!!!

All About Molly...

2010-07-16T07:28:00.001-07:00

For some who may not know this young lady...this is Molly. Bee as she was nicknamed upon birth...long story. ANYHOO...this young lady started out as a spirited baby who literally kept me awake rocking her during the entire length of Princess Diana's funeral...a connection? Not sure yet. She, as a toddler, would give her grandparent's nasty looks and refuse for them to even hold her. Oh yeah...she's got quite a sting.

As she prepared to go off to kindergarten I found myself handing her to the teacher and darting out the door while she screamed: "Don't leave me here Mommy!!!!"
That lasted for only a mere 6 months. For those same 6 months she refused to speak in class...not to the teacher...not to her classmates. Her shyness had control of her. In fact, during a presentation by the kindergarten class where every student said their name and age Molly refused. Fortunately, the music teacher had a solution. In chorus the entire class said: "Her name is Molly, she's 5 years old."

The following year at school she broke out of he shell and made many new friends...including several young men. As her class enjoyed the last 10 minutes of class at the playground Molly skipped over to the swings flanked by no less than 5 boys. They lined up excited, as if they were standing in line to receive an ice cream. But no...that was not the plan. They were to each take turns pushing Molly 3 times on the swing and then get in the back of the line. I watched for that entire 10 minutes as those boys labored .

Why you may ask?!?! Because my dear sweet daughter didn't feel like pumping her legs!!!

ARE YOU KIDDING ME!?!?!

Growing up as headstrong as can be she is one that never gives up when she puts her mind to it. She has fallen in love with acting....something for which only a drama geek mother of hers can appreciate. She took an improv class back in California and loved the freedom she felt.

Lately, she has heard several radio ads about talent scouts visiting San Antonio and she has literally begged us 5 times to take her. Each time we happily found a reason to avoid going, but we ran out of reasons last week.

Early on Saturday we awoke Sleeping Beauty fairly early so she could gt up, showered and ready. She and I traipsed off to the given location and waited for her time to shine. As we waited, the kids were all given some tips on acting from one other than Phil Lewis.

I know...he looks familiar...kind of like your second cousin 3 times removed on your great aunt's side? Let me give you a better picture:
Yes, she was introduced to the charismatic Mr Moseby who encouraged her in the pursuit of her dreams as she waited for her turn with the talent scout.

Butterflies crept in her stomach...who she have the right look for the Disney Channel...her ultimate dream.

As we met with Jimmy V he took a look at her and got to know her. She completed a cold read of a GAP commercial in front of the camera. Jimmy asked us to return on an appointed day with the commercial memorized and giving it her best. She received her call back slip.

For the next hours she read and re-read her commercial bringing it to memory. When we returned on the appointed day she performed again, no other kids in the room...just she, Jimmy V and I. After her performance he agreed she certainly had talent and mentioned that she had a great physique for print ads and modeling as well. he liked her look and told her to go into auditions as herself instead of trying to add extensions to her hair and being something she's not. He felt she could go far.

At the end of our meeting he handed me his cell# and took down her information in case he finds something for her.

As we walked from our meeting while other kids waited anxiously for their call backs Molly jumped and pumped her fist in the air.

"Yes!!!"

Looks like my girl has her course steady. she is heading full steam ahead for her dreams.

In My Mind...

2010-07-16T07:17:00.000-07:00

Tonight is my last night of working a night shift. My last day off was Monday and my next day off is Monday...it's a long week. However, my vacation starts on Monday so I will have several days off to take in a deep breath and enjoy myself long enough to sling a paintbrush around the house and finally get rid of the awful brown color that is staring at us each and every day. Hubby and I picked the colors for our house a couple weeks ago and were thrilled with our decision...until yesterday. For some odd, strange reason he picked arctic blue for our living room. Not good enough. We wanted something to really pop as you came in and we are thrilled with our new choice. Honestly I don't know how dating I am to actually paint my walls a deep red, but with the baseboard and banister being painted white it's going to look great!!! It can't be worse than the brown can it? No....no it can't. I've taken some truly horrifying before pictures and I can't wait until I am done to show you the after pictures. It's going to be fun...besides, the kids are helping me!!!!

Oh joy....someone pass the aspirin please!!!

Tales of the Scorpion, Unpacking and Sweet Revenge...

2010-07-05T17:24:00.000-07:00

It happened. I've been here a full year and the one thing I was afraid of happened. As we were walking home from our friends house, I love having friends right across the street, scurrying across our driveway was one of the most fearful creatures in my nightmares...the dreaded scorpion. They creep me out just as much as a spider or a snake...most definitely a snake. That night I overcame my fear and smashed the critter under my flip flops. The Scorpions will bother me no more!!!!

For the past week we've been unpacking and we are fairly well settled now...now we simply need to paint. I'm so not looking forward to that....however my vacation is coming soon....and guess what am doing for vacation...Painting!!!! it's nice to be settled into our home now and feel normal again. My office AKA the Dungeon....is in a hidden room next to our pantry/washroom. I love the privacy I have. We even made it to our new ward and met some fabulous families. I felt so comfortable. It is the smallest ward we've ever lived in. However, the numbers may be small but the hearts are large!!! I can't wait to get to know these ladies.

4th of July came about and we spent the afternoon after church with our fantastic friends, with whom we could've never made it through our trials without. This is the friend who literally kept me at an even keel and called me each night to give me encouragement when I was alone back in California as Hubby searched for a job. The nights I felt I couldn't take another step and go on...He told me I can and I will. Hubby struggled with depression at the same time I did. There was no way he could help me. Our dear friends across the street did. When Anne of Green Gables talks of kindred spirits....I now know who she is talking about.

As luck had it not only do we have some of our best friends across the street, but his father owns a firework stand. Oh Yeah!!!! Connections baby!!! His father already offered Corinna a job when she turns 16. She's thrilled. In fact, he offered jobs to all three of my kids when they turn 16. Suh-Weet!!! How can a teen turn away $10 an hour?!?! So he supplied our fireworks show. There are definite advantages to living in the county.

Have you ever seen $900 worth of fireworks?!?!

I have and we started approximately 9pm when the sun was completely own. We didn't finish until after midnight and there were still fireworks left we didn't get set off. It was a show to end all shows.

Oh...and the sweet revenge we were talking about?!?! Well, do remember when my dear friend Bobby introduced himself to my co-worker as the "shmuck she wouldn't date in high school"?!?! So, as his other friends showed up and I met them. I introduced myself and added..."I'm the girl who refused to date him in high school." They all enjoyed that and he turned beet red...Revenge is sweet.

And here's the thing. I told him I seriously never remembered him asking me to prom. I told my dear friend that the only thing I remembered was him approaching me and saying: "If Jeff asked you to prom would you go with him?"

I can barely believe what he said in return: "Yeah, you were supposed to say: No, I'd rather go with you Bobby."

What a dork?!?!? His fiance and I agree he's most definitely a dork, but he's our dork and I wouldn't have it any other way.

The Red Door

2010-06-30T19:35:00.000-07:00

When I was little, my friends and I all dreamt of what our lives would be like as we played with our Barbies. One declared she was going to marry a doctor, another a lawyer and me?! Well, I drew a lot of strange looks from my friends as I declared I would live in a house with a red door.

Why "Red"?!?!?!

To me having a red door meant I was more than just the standard white or brown door. It meant there was something fun and whimsical about the person residing behind that door. I've always had an independent streak in me and a love of being different, mind body and soul. And now I've found my way.

As a family we've made our way back into something resembling a life. My children....are happy. My husband, who I discovered owns more than 40 pairs of shoes in this move, is content. I, though waiting for my impending surgery on my foot, can finally open my eyes and feel the sun on my face....even though I discovered today the previous tenants forgot one of their weaves behind one of the drawers in my new bathroom....let's just say rubber gloves were in order.

So my friends, you now know why I've changed my identity to Red Door Girl when I sign into your comments. It reminds me of the vision I lost through this trial.

Almost Home...

2010-06-30T05:10:00.001-07:00

I am sitting here in my dungeon...literally, although I think we need a few more gargoyles and skeletons hanging in the corner to be perfectly honest. Oh and by the way....I HATE MOVING!!!!!

The start of our moving season was beautiful...all three of my children were off at scout camp or Young Women's Camp. Bryan had a great time earning 7 whopping merit badges bringing him within 1 merit badge to earn his life rank... And of course he has 5 1/2 months to wit until he can advance. the girls had a blast of their own learning the power of prayer is great. While the other cabins at camp found spiders and scorpions lurking in their cabin, theirs was the one cabin with absolutely no incidences. The girls even enjoyed their horseback riding lessons at camp. It was great in their eyes.

While all three kids were gone we bagged and boxed all of their things and moved everything but the furniture. Moving day came and the hectic pace began. I consider ourselves blessed that we had so much help loading up...and there were 6 moves happening in our ward that day. We even had my car loaded to the hilt!!! I received a call from a friend saying that the girls would be arriving home in 1 hour. My care was packed to the roof. I had no choice but to run to the house, unpack my car and then run to pick the girls up. I made it about 5 minutes late. Once we loaded the girls into the car along with all their gear we ran back to the house. I knew I had about an hour before Bryan would be arriving home. So we loaded some of the final kitchen items...not all would fit in the car and began our journey to the new house.

Our friends, and new neighbors, lent me one of their cell phones since our phone would soon be down. As we were driving past the church the cell rang and we found out Bryan would be at the church in about 10 minutes. We turned around and drove back to the church and then desperately tried to rearrange things so that we could fit one more body AND all of his gear into the car. Let's just say there's a reason I'm good at Tetris.

For the past 3 days we've done nothing but unpack and rearrange. So much to do and never enough time let me tell you!!!

Today is a little slower pace. Don is at work and this is my final day off.We have just a few more boxes to unpack and then we can get back to our previously scheduled programming.

Remember That Light at the End of the Tunnel?!

2010-06-21T17:06:00.001-07:00

I've asked myself constantly...

"Are we there yet?!"

And guess what?!

WE'RE THERE!!!!!!!!!

Hubby and I have spent the weekend moving whatever we could into our new home. The carpets have yet to be cleaned, but it is planned. From there the house needs a good scrubbing every corner of the house. We ran over there this morning and borrowed my best friend's SUV again to bring as much as we could before Saturday. Besides, a few of the things we needed for Corinna for camp...were brought to the house...Ooopsie!!!

We picked up the items and dropped Corinna off for camp. We bid our eldest good bye. Our sweet Bryan was woken up this morning at 4:15am to head off to scout camp. Tomorrow brings one more farewell as we send our youngest to Girl's Camp for the first time...she is so excited about the shows, the fun, the learning and most especially the horseback riding.

Tomorrow we begin our 4 nights with no kids in the home. That can only mean one thing....

PAR-TAY!!!!!!

I wish...no instead we are working our week while trying to make usre everything else for the move is finished.

The best news is that after a long hard hunt for Hubby to find a new job with fulltime hours I am happy to report...the search is over. today after dropping child 1 off for her trip up to cmap he received a call offering a job as long as he passes the criminal background check. I am so thrilled. He was offered a position at the high school my daughter just finished her freshman year at. She is moving to another school so there won't be any problems. He is literally dancing and the move is a good thing for him. Yes, we will lose our discount at Target, but it will be so worth it in the end.

I also made it to the doctor again for my third cortison shot into my heel. It's not working my friends, but we are hoping for a miracle. My dcotor and I have discussed the surgery which he is believing may be necessary at this point. He explained the procedure and told me it would be an outpatient surgery that would keep me out of work for just a few days to recover and that is a good thing. It is a 15 minute procedure I would be awake through. Only an hour before the surgery for prep, 15 minutes for the actual surgery and 1 hour after for recovery. From there I will go home wearing a foot cast for three weeks to allow my foot time to recover. I can hardly wait to walk without pain. This is a good thing.

So my friends, I THANK YOU ALL!!! for your incredible support you've given myself and my family. I am grateful for the prayers and strength and the friends along the way who wound their way into my heart. I love you all for your kindness and your cheering. Starting July 6th...Hubby's first day....I will step out into the sunlight for the first time in two years.

Perhaps I should wear sunglasses.

More To Come...

2010-06-20T11:31:00.000-07:00

Starting move....

Foot is killing me....

More to move tomorrow...

Final moving....Saturday.

Praying for strength to lift, patience to not kill my husband when he is tired and grumpy, a smile to keep everything cheerful, and the men at church to show up and help.

We Have A Date!!!

2010-06-15T19:42:00.000-07:00

AND I am thrilled!!! Hubby came home with notice that he and I have the same Saturday off that we were hoping to plan and so we are going to move on the 26th. I am hoping and praying that all will go well...so far so good. Most of the important things are packed and ready. THe loose stuff? Well...we'll just say we're going to do our best!!! As soon as I get into the house I'll be updating with new pictures. Until then...pray for me to have strength to make it through this!!!

2010-06-12T18:36:00.000-07:00

It's been a long couple of weeks....working hard, playing hard, praying hard.

Long hours on the sales floor and connected to a headset listening to people tell me a bit about their lives. This morning I had a wonderful conversation with a woman who worked in a bridal shop part time and was taking her husband into the doctor to get his check up with his Parkinson's. Her oldest son has just sold his house and is living in her brother's condo, of which he is going to out in the next week or two to find a new home to start out his new life with his new job. And how do I know this? Because resevervationists are the bartenders of the travel world, dontcha know?!?!?

In between the packing we've found our way to the pool, doing a quick road trip...just to drop hubby off at the airport. All the while getting hit on by a guy in the Shell station...Here's what happened....and please keep in mind this is a biker with tattoos up his arm with a handlebar mustache.

Him "Hi"

Me "Hi"

Him "How are you?"

Me "Fine thanks, how are you?"

Him "Better now that you got here!!!"

OH MY!!!!

And finally, my best friend, My Bobby. He called and asked for a favor. For a friend? Absolutely!!! Can I watch his girlfriend's kids? No prob. Why?!

Because he is in the hospital and when his girlfriend finds out she's going to FREAK and will be wanting to get to the hospital to see him. Truth be told...she sure did. She did what she was told....brought the kids to me and left for the hospital. We watched their kids. her darling 4 year old son came up to me and fluttered his big brown eyes and said: "You're pretty." Sucking up?! Nope...far to innocent. Molly however was given a better offer: "You're pretty...will you marry me?" The little guys older brother who just happens to have a crush on Molly seems to agree.

...oh dear!!!

Come to find out our dear Bobby had a sugar level so high it made the doctor's scratch their head trying to figure out why he wasn't in a coma. YOWZA!!!! Apparently he has been diagnosed with juvenile onset diabetes. I told him he needed to grow up...you've gotta love our friendship. He's the one that is renting us the house so our kids can be together and play together. The beginning o his own community. One where the kids can be kids and the grownups can shut down the street for a block party, just because we want to.

He is now recovering and slowly making his way back to work. He's a nurse and all of the doctor's he works with are keeping a very close eye on him...he is adjusting fine.

And finally, I am grateful for the goodness in my life and the close friends who I can depend on and who can depend on me. I am grateful for the love of my life who is at this moment celebrating his parent's 50th anniversary and for the first time in MANY years having all of his brothers and sisters in one place. I am grateful for the gospel that keeps my feet moving even when i don't want to move them. I am also grateful for the cool weather that will invade San Antonio on whatever date we decide to move....I can dream can't I?!?!? Just a little faith!!!!

Aside...

2010-06-10T06:18:00.000-07:00

Aside from working a ridiculously 40 hours workweek...I know horrible isn't it?!?!
Aside from packing the house and getting ready for the move...though I'm not sure yet what date this will happen...Aside from trying to get all three kids ready for Youth Conference and their camps which are all happening within a few days of each other...Aside from getting hubby ready and taking him to the airport at some incredibly horrible hour of the morning for a weekend trip (Happy 50th anniversary to his parents)...Aside from hobbling to the doctor only to hear the words: "We'll give you a larger dose of Cortisone and re-evaluate if we should even do a third dose in 4 weeks...Aside from realizing the larger shot of Cortisone didn't work, but appreciating the pain in which I felt as it was injected into my foot...Aside from the loss of my sanity and taking a brief moment to enjoy the incredibly beautiful lightning storms...Aside from attempting to remember how to spell my own name....I'm here and I'm laughing...to the side of course!!!

And so it begins...

2010-06-01T18:39:00.001-07:00

Do you see this? Oh yeah! The move is on!!! The current tenants vacate 2 weeks from tomorrow and we will then be allowed to come in and paint, clean and get ready to move in.

We have until July 5th to get out of the apartment. My prayers until then are that the 26th will run smoothly for us....Don will be off that day...I will be off that day...we'll find a full crew of willing helpers in out ward to move us. From there...the rest will be simple. Or as simple as moving can be.

Seeing boxes again...I'm thrilled!!! I am truly thrilled to see the move is not so far away!!! And oh yeah...there will be pictures... and the unveiling of a new look...new blog...a new me!!!

Good News VS Bad News....

2010-05-28T18:32:00.000-07:00

If someone gave you a choice....which would you choose?

I chose bad...I always choose bad first. Why?! I love to get the bad news over with. So...the bad news? I have a major cold. I despise colds!!!

The good news?

Oh my there's so many to choose from.....So...here goes:

-I had today off....so I relaxed a bit

-I was able to help a friend in need

-I packed a box

-Today was the last day of seminary....I no longer need to wake up at 5am to make sure Corinna is awake.

AND....the #1 Good news of the day?!

The current tenants of our home are vacating as of the 15th of June...2 full weeks ahead of schedule and my landlord offered extra boxes if we need them to pack AND we have 2 weeks to move in without paying any rent!!!! We are able to start moving in a little over 2 weeks!!!! ARE YOU SERIOUS!?!?!?!

Oh yeah...I am. So, we are planning on starting to move as soon as possible so we can be out by my birthday. Last year I celebrated my brithday in a nearly empty apartment...but my family was together. This year, I will be celebrating my 39th birthday by unpacking.

I can barely believe in one month I will be starting to move and unpack my home. A beautiful 2 story brick home with a fireplace and a red door. I know it's crazy, but I LOVE red doors. In honor of the move I am planning on renaming my blog. I don't know what yet, but I've got a few ideas swimming around my head. If you've got any suggestions throw 'em at me!!! I want to use this as a fresh start...leave behind the baggage from the recession and the loss of our lives into something fresh and fun. Any ideas you have I'd lvoe to hear!!!

I survived....or did I?

2010-05-25T19:30:00.000-07:00

it was the beginning of a marathon week for me. Running back and forth to the office and enjoy some really nice treatment. With Associate Appreciation Week coming we were expected to come in at least twice. I came in on monday...happily. It was nice to ahve co-workers around me to be able to speak to and have an adult conversation...no the guests I talk to each day don't count. It's nice to talk to adults you're not trying to sell anything. Anyhoo...I came in and received my fabulouso t-shirt to celebrate our office being named the comapny's best reservation office of the year. I was there for the last half a=of the year...enough to feel I helped earn that award. I enjoyed an incredible dinner of chicken alfredo with some french bread on the side....very tasty.

In the middle of our week we watched intently the Valero Texas Open not because we like golf, but because our resort was the host to the PGA golfers who invaded....and we sold out the rest of the nearly thousand rooms. It was the best advertising ever!!! Our lines have been lit up causing us to sell out nearly three weeknds in a row with visitors even from Mexico longing to play the course Greg Norman designed. And for those "non-golfers" in the crowd...to play 18 holes you need to be a guest at our resort AND pay $175 to play. To give you an idea...For one night with 2 people golfing and breakfast it is running at $678 per night. No...not kidding. I tried playing golf...and I don't understand the draw. However, in the words of Field of Dreams....'if you build it...they will come." and if you get that great of advertising...they come in droves.

I made my way slowly through the rest of the week. Molly made it through her induction into the National Junior Honor Society so that was interesting and fun to watch her go through it. I amde it through the rest of the week and celebrated our survival on Saturday hanging out with our friends. Hubbies hung out playing pool while us girls gabbed in the kitchen...they will soon be my neighbors. I also received my first look at my future home...let's just say there is a beautiful red brick structure which has inspired a new name to my blog that I will reveal after we move in...I can hardly wait to unpack my belongings...all of them. And say hello to my mother's hutch she had given me, my antique piano and the beast of an armoire I keep swearing I will never move again.

I began again working the weekends after enjoying being off on Sundays for a couple months. I missed being at church, but at the same time I am indeed grateful for the job which has kept our family afloat when we never thought we'd make it. Yes...the sun is coming out to great us more often. There is sunshine finally peeking into my soul as I've battled depression throughout this trial. It has been difficult.

The last little bit of my busy week finished yesterday when I made my way back to the doctor's office. He quickly set me up with the second painful shot. Unhappy with the results from the first injection this time he unloaded a larger dose into my foot nearly sending me through the roof. I ended up in tears by the time I made it home. Our next meeting in 4 weeks he said we will decide whether or not to even bother with the last shot....translation: we will be talking about the surgery. Fabulous....right as we are moving. As promised to my hubby...I'll wait until after the move for the surgery if needed. We shall see...then I'll have plenty of time to blog...in between eating bon bons and wathcing soap operas that is.

Let the Whirlwind Begin!!!!

2010-05-16T06:45:00.000-07:00

It's Sunday...The Day of Rest, some may call it. Me? I call it the beginning of a very long week. It won't be dull, that I can guarantee. However, it will allow me time to break out of the depression that seems to be my constant companion lately. that in itself is a good thing.

Today, church...dinner at my brother-in-law and sister-in-law's house...then home.

Monday, get kids up and ready, take bus into office, change into new shirt provided by office and enjoy being spoiled on breaks, compete in balsa wood glider competition and paper airplane making competition.

Tuesday, get kids off to seminary and school, work at home, get off work early and RUN over to middle school in time to see my youngest be inducted into the National Junior Honor Society...come home and collapse

Wednesday, get kids up for school and seminary, make sure they get to where they need to. Steal car from hubby and strand him at home while I work in office. Schmooze with the properties that pay my salary... it's Salad bar day along with some fun activities and contests...I think the Wii will be going during breaks and lunches. Drive home and collapse.

Thursday, get kids up and out of the house for school and seminary. Make hubby give me ride over to work, enjoy a day with Shamu and animal friends visiting us and snack on sandwiches and games. Wait after work until nearly 11pm for hubby to pick me up...go home and you know it...collapse into deep coma.

Friday, wake up and get the kids off to school and seminary. Do grocery shopping, come home and put everything away and then go back to sleep while hubby heads off to work...all before 8:30am. wake up late afternoon refreshed. Take shower and get ready for an evening with friends...now that's the way to celebrate the "almost closing" to a long week.

Saturday- wake up early and take bus into work while hubby gets kids up and ready to drop off somewhere while he works....we haven't figured out the logistics yet, but we will...i hope. After work wait for hubby and rest of family to show up and enjoy spending time together at the company picnic to bring to close Associate Appreciation Week.

Sunday- wake up early and work from home....yup...schedule changed and I am back at the grindstone on Sundays. Pray often to make it to Monday where I am just responsible to get the kids to school and then make it to the doctor again to enjoy another shot of that FABULOUSO cortisone!!!! Oh yeah...I'm so ready!!!

I'm having a feeling there is no way I will be blogging this week. Of course, I'm also having a feeling these is no way I will survive!!! We'll see though!!! have camera...will travel!!!

Taking Care of Mom...

2010-05-04T07:11:00.000-07:00

It's inbred, natural really...
When we, as mothers, make dinner....we serve others first.
As women I find we watch over others moreso than ourselves.

Yesterday, after...well....let's just say several years...we needn't be too exact anyway...what's the point?!

I FINALLY took that step, albeit painful.

Why after so many years of dealing with the constant pain have I given in? I can't tell you an exact reason, but reality hit Sunday after church.

We walked home. Living less than a half mile from church is definitely a blessing when dealing with one car. Hubby unfortunately had to depart for work right before church ended to get make it to his shift on time. The kids and I...walked home. They never complained, but I found myself blessed to see their sweet spirits as every few minutes my girls would look back at me to make sure I was still with them. My son, walked next to me, hand in hand, watching over me the way only he can do.

As I approached the stairs, 3 flights of the most insane way to finish a half mile walk, I inwardly groaned, knowing the throbbing burning aching pain which would soon settle in and I would hide from my kids as we celebrated Bryan's 14th birthday a day early.

Going back, my feet began hurting several years ago whenever I climbed out of bed or sat for a length of time. It was never too bad and the ache went away after awhile. I've also never received much help when going to doctors. Upon going in for my knees when they first began hurting I received the admonition that I was too fat and needed to lose weight. Twice doctors have told me these words causing me to never want help from them again. it was an unconscious decision. Sunday, however sent me over the edge. i slept for 2 hours before being awakened at 1:35 am and desperately trying to get back to sleep while ignoring the pain.

Enough was enough. I'd done enough research on the Internet to diagnose myself with Plantar Fasciitis with possible bone spurs causing the pain. I searched my provider's directory silently feeling thankful I didn't need a referral which may have caused me to decide not to bother. I called my first choice after researching the doctors to find the earliest they could get me in was July...are you kidding me?! However, I had another idea to call another doctor...I can't explain why I picked him but let's just say his name stood out to me.

I called to check and see how early I could get to see him. I was aiming for friday...it is my day off so a perfect way to waste my day away. Was I in luck or what?! They had a cancellation if I could get there in the next 45 minutes. Seriously?!?! NICE!!!

Now, about this Doc....you know, the random one i picked out because his name just stood out to me. Pshaw...what a stupid way to pick out a doctor!!!! Not really!!! It seems he is VERY well educated and was appointed by the governor to be on the state board of podiatry examiners. NICE!!! My first thought...get a lottery ticket...just pick the numbers that stand out...yeah right!!!

The sweet ladies in the office took the xrays and it was discovered that I am such an overachiever that they considered calling the Guinness Book of World Records...no not really, but close. He showed me on the xray where I had not one but 2 fabulous beautiful bone spurs. The one on my heel...Not so bad, just good info to know. The one on my heel...big enough to be counted as an extra toe in my opinion.

The course of action...

cortisone shots, 3 of them spread out in a 6 week plan. By the way, if you've been blessed to never have a cortisone shot, feel blessed, but I'll liken it to being the Devil's own medicine, second only to Pitocin...ugh!!!

Wrapping my foot. Done!!!

Insoles, highly uncomfortable, but Done!!!

Not walking long distances if not needed. I'll give it a shot!!

Putting my feet up. NICE!!!

Not lifting heavy objects...including boxes while we move....I am loving my doctor!!!

All this in avoiding the desperate act of surgery.

After the doctor's office I ate a bagel and rushed to get dressed because I was supposed to make it into the office. One of our resorts was slated to visit so i was supposed to be there. I had a wonderful talk with my manager who gave me so much support and told me to keep her informed on the progress with my foot. And then we found out the property wasn't showing. I was there for no reason. I worked my shift and then sat down to wait. I was off at 8:30pm and unfortunately buses don't run at that time so I had to wait for my sweetheart to pick me up after his shift...he was off at 11pm. Oh yeah...

Before you get to feeling too sorry for me, I kicked back in the massage recliner in front of the big screen watching whatever I felt like watching. I know...I'm spoiled, but it's all right I'm good with it!!!

By the time I made it home, my foot was aching, my eyes were drooping as I was nearing the 23 hours awake mark. Hubby tucked me in bed and before he could say goodnight I was sawing logs, better than a lumber mill.

So...how was your day?!

The Finish Line...or the Beginning.

2010-05-02T15:41:00.000-07:00

Today was another big day for our family. Corinna earned her Young Women's medallion and today the bishop took a few moments to award it to her. What was sweet is I had many parents approach me and tell me what a beautiful young woman she was and how the medallion enhanced her beauty.

I agree completely, though I may be partial.

What touched me the most was as we headed out the doors of church to start our walk home the young men came up high fiving her and congratulating her for earning her medallion. They applauded her standards and her hard work.

This is what I've noticed about the youth in our ward. It's been noticed that at dances when most of the kids spread out and hang out with other people from other wards our ward is different. They all are in the center of the room dancing and enjoying being together. I'm kind of sad for moving the kids away from such a group, but I know they'll be all right. They'll bond with the new ward and become a great addition. Until then, we'll celebrate the good times!!!

Next week...Mother's Day and being there when my son is ordained a teacher. Pictures to follow!!!

Can you change the world with a cup of lemonade?

2010-04-27T04:35:00.000-07:00

I wanted to share a little story about 2 girls, friends really. They wanted to make a difference....and they have. A big difference. Oh! Did I mention they are only in elementary school.

These two girls decided to make a lemonade stand to support Relay for Life and help further cancer research. Read about their big day here!!!

I am honored to say I know half of the duo. Her father is a cancer survivor. Her mother is an amazing woman who works had to help Relay for Life where I used to live. And this young lady and her friend are going to change the world....one cup of lemonade at a time.

A Sunday for the Ages...

2010-04-25T16:54:00.000-07:00

There's always that one Sunday when a plan always comes together...everything clicks. It started out early. 7:21am to be exact. It felt good to sleep in. Oh yeah, that WAS sleeping in for me...

ANYHOO....

It was the monthly early morning Presidency meeting and breakfast for the Young Women Presidencies which meant I had to roll my two girls out of bed. Clutching their binders, and stumbling blindly in their PJ's to the door it was a miracle they stopped yawning before walking into their YW President's home.

On the way home I pulled past the dumpster and scored with a large stack of moving boxes broken down and ready to be used!!! SUH-WEET!!!!

Afterwards they came home and hubby started a massive squirt gun war in the house...with the tiniest squirt gun imaginable. All while I attempted to iron...so domestic aren't I?! So, once the kids were sufficiently doused and it came to near tears I ended the war with a glass of cold water to hubby.

My sweet visiting teachers stopped by while the Fam got ready for church. I was incredibly entertained as were my visiting teachers when hubby entertained us with a rousing concert while he took a shower....Boy did he turn red when he found out they heard him. Oh yeah...they were so jealous!!!

Church went really well as and I survived my calling. For a woman who is not naturally drawn to babies being an Assistant Nursery leader, when our ward has no less than 4 nurseries, can be the true meaning of "enduring to the end." I felt blessed to be able to watch Corinna receive her final two ribbons of her Young Women's Bookmark. I was able to arrange Corinna's interview with the bishop and she will receive her Young Women's medallion next Sunday. I am so thrilled for her. I arranged for Bryan for his interview since he will be turning 14 next week.

After church Molly and I began our walk home. Hubby had to head to work the late shift so we opted to enjoy the fresh air. Corinna and Bryan had to wait after church for their BYC meeting. Our YM/YW leaders always make sure they get a ride home. We didn't even make it a full block until a wardmember pulled over and picked us up.

The reason our ward is so incredibly awesome...Thought we've tried many times...we've never walked the entire way home. Someone always stops. Too sweet!!!

So now, I am home with my feet up relaxing. 2 out of the 3 kids are home with me...Corinna opted to head out with her YW leaders for a special fireside with Brother Marvin Goldstein. He speaking to them all about developing their talents. I hope she has a wonderful time.

Lights!!!! Camera!!! Roadshow!!!!

2010-04-18T07:05:00.000-07:00

The many weeks of practice had passed and it was down to this day. I've become so desensitized from people never wanting kids to be a winner or loser I didn't realize prizes were on the line for their performances. We were entertained by each ward. The kids truly put their heart and soul into their performance. And it was time to shine.

Molly arrived ready for transformation. She is our drama diva in the family. She loves to sit in a chair and have someone do her makeup and hair. It doesn't necessarily matter what she looks like, it's a pampering aspect to her.

Our ward's time... "Back to the 80's!!!"

Oh yeah!!!

They wanted to experience a slice of life...dressing in the 80's...it truly was hysterical to see just how they interpreted the 80's.

They sang, they danced, and with a strobe light for added effect they even had a fight scene. In the end, everyone won a prize just for competing. When the announcement was made, though, our ward came out triumphant. Each rehearsal, every moment memorizing their lines, every dance rehearsal was worth it...they had fun in the end. That IS the point after all.

And for me...my busy day had almost come to an end. I simply needed to pick my eternal sweetheart up from work. While I waited for him to finish the skies lit up in a bright lightning display... I think Heavenly Father was quite proud of all the kids in our stake who participated.

I know I'm proud of my three.

Your Highness

2010-04-14T12:54:00.000-07:00

Yes, you may all address me as your highness. I've been officially crowned. Well, temporarily until the 21st anyway. Oh!!! You're trying to figure out what I'm talking about...you're not alone...many people wonder on a daily basis.

I visited the dentist today. Now, I must warn you...I can't stand being at the dentist. Ugh...my jaw always aches for days following. Today was a big day for me. On the ToDo List:
1. Cause great pain while injecting novacaine into my system
2. Grind Hillbilly tooth down
3. add insult to injury as we perform a root canal
4. Shove foreign object into tooth to keep tooth strong
5. Crown patient/tooth.

Well, the wonderful woman that was my dentist crossed number one off my list with less pain than I was used to. However half my face was literally numb as I wondered just how long the proceudre was intended to last if she gave me THAT much novacaine. In fact, while we waited for the novacaine to spread to my toes I found I had no feeling in my right nostril. NO!!! Not one iota of feeling. As she began working I closed my eyes and silently mused whether or not someone could pick my nose and I'd never know a thing. Weird..I know.

She grinded that tooth down into my darling little nub. I love my nub.

To my pleasant surprise my tooth wasn't as bad as she thought and I needed no root canal or a post implanted in my tooth. It was just meand my nub. As they prepared to make the crown my dear little dentist remembered the materials she needed weren't being delivered until that afternoon. So, a temporary crown was fitted. And I will go back on the 21st to receive my full crowning glory.

After escaping the office and wandering outside I realized what a beautiful day it was. Not too hot, not too cold, overcast with a nice breeze blowing. I know, I love overcast days. Perfectly gloomy...my favorite!!! I walked home. As I approached the apartments I saw hubby heading to the car to come and pick me up.

For the rest of today I shall sip away at a tall drink while hubby takes care of the kids while I remain close friends with my bottle of extra strength Tylenol.

Breaking The News....

2010-04-13T05:03:00.000-07:00

Oh yeah...it's coming.

Moving time...again.

They all knew it was going to happen....and boy did it.

Our main goal was to find a place that was a bit less expensive so we could live within our means. Our ideal was to stay in the ward that has nurtured us during the dust settling. Our ideal was also to keep the kids in the school they've attended all year...though secretly Molly has prayed against staying in her school. Why? Nerd Uniforms. Yes, they have to wear uniforms...which are an incredibly large pain in my behind to find might I add.

Goals? We apparently need to stinkin' goals!!!

I received a call early yesterday morning from my friend, Bobby. He told me that one of the tenants of one of his houses wee coming available and he and his father were interested in renting to our family. Our rent right now is $1040 for a 3 bedroom apartment, on the third floor, with 1200 square feet. It was doable, and we made it work though many of our belongings remain in storage gathering dust. Like my favorite century old piano...I miss dear friend...sniff sniff!!!

So, instead of paying oodles of cash for a tiny three bedroom we will pay only $950 for a 1900 sq foot home. Of course, since we can pull our items out of storage we eliminate the rent from our storage as well. I fully understand the energy bill will be a bit higher and our water bill will be a bit higher as well and there will be the new bill of trash collection. However, after going through the figures we still come out ahead.

So, we are moving again in July. Out of our ward boundaries. Out of the school boundaries, yet still in the same district.

And how did the kids react?

Bryan was good with it...he's heading into high school anyway and most of his friends were headed to a different high school.

Molly? Oh that was easy...she won't have to wear her "Nerd" uniform any longer. She was ecstatic!!!

And finally...Corinna. My high schooler. The one who cried when we told he we were moving to Texas. She shrugged her shoulders and said: "OK."

Really? Just "OK"?!?!?

She was literally fine with it. The good Lord has prepared them for the move. now we just need to pick up our boxes from storage and get ready.

And So It Begins...

2010-04-12T04:38:00.000-07:00

The past few days for me have been filled with complete and utter pain and nausea. Why? No, it's not the flu. I gave up my Dr. Pepper. I am in my first detox week from that evil drink. Perhaps I'm going a bit overboard calling it the drink of the devil to my children, but it's still too fresh.

In an effort to be a team player and to change my life I am competing AND joining in with my team to become more healthy and active over the next month. My office has introduced a new activity to be offered to improve our lifetime health habits...completely voluntary of course! It's called "Game On! Kick your friend's butts while losing your own!" Now do you see why I love my office?!

My dear resort team has girded our loins and are ready for battle. This game is very simple. They've given us the tools to create a new diet for us and encourage exercise as well. We are to pick one habit in which to kick to the curb for one month. I myself, chose to rid my life of drinking Dr. Pepper/sodas. I never knew the extent of the withdrawls my body would go through when the dark brown substance left my menu. The first day was impossible...headaches began immediately. Hitting migraine status was a new low for me. I could barely move and I became literally nauseated and sick on friday to the point of not being able to work. Can a little drink possibly have THAT effect on my body? Impossible!!! It was unbelievable!!!

Saturday the headache wore down to a dull nagging ache. I managed to get my kids to where they needed to, ironed the backdrop for the kids' roadshow at church and came home 2 hours later feeling completely and utterly exhausted. Again, I fell back into my chair no wanting to move.

Sunday came around...The headache remained, though dramatically lighter, being in nursery would most certainly have an effect on the well being of my head. I felt light headed and shaky. Apparently I was literally shaking. I made it through and by the time we made it back to out apartment I was out of breath...remember we live on the third floor? Needless to say I sat back in my chair and my kids did their best to bring me an ice cold drink...non-caffeinated of course.

Today, the headache is all but gone and I now wonder to myself....if the caffeine alone did THAT to me...What does the rest of the drink do to me?

I guess it's time to go back to the basics!!!

The Chameleon...

2010-04-06T08:38:00.000-07:00

On a daily basis I speak to people from all around the world. I hear their beautiful accents and find myself playing a mental game of "Name where this person comes from." If you've never lived in the south you may never realize how completely different the accents are as you cross the state lines. Texas has their twang while Mississippi lilt is as smooth as it can be. I also hear a difference in the asian countries as well as scandanavian.

Perhaps it is the theater background I have, but I find myself begin to blend in with each guest. The chameleon in me begins to peep out. As I greet the guest with the Hawaiian Resorts and using the hawaiian words so often my mouth begins to form around and my mouth morphs into those beautiful hawaiian natives. I've had many hawaiians tell me that I speak with a hawaiian heart. It was an unforgettable compliment.

A few weeks back, I spoke to a businessman who asked which province I lived in. Confused, all I could mutter was: "Excuse me?" In essence, he thought I was Canadian and was curious what beautiful part of Canada I was from. We laughed as I told him I'm in Texas. He was floored. Apparently, my chameleon tongue snuck out.

My children have inherited the same trait. As a toddler, my son was a little englishman. He hated getting dirt on his hands outside and played a game of screaming "Mama! Dirt!!!" in his tiny little voice. I would brush it off and he would repeat the scene. Our game had begun.

My youngest has always had a peculiar way of speaking. A cross between Bostonian, English and Californian. There's nothing wrong with it, but she definitely hails from her own world. Yesterday, some truly rude classmates began making fun on her speech. They've teased her before. This is nothing new. Before they've tried to get her goat calling her "Mormon." I asked her if she wanted me to intercede. She simply said: "Mom, don't worry. I am a Mormon. No biggie." Yesterday, their focus was her speech. her friends had enough. They began calling her...well a word that rhymes with witch. While Molly chose the pathway of ignoring the boys, her friends were not willing to stand by and let it happen. They went straight to the principal and told him this had been going on for some time. Molly was called in and she answered the questions truthfully and the principal decided he needed to intercede in her behalf. At some point these boys could come back at her, but I doubt they will. Her friends are there watching her back.

I Guess It Happens...

2010-04-01T16:38:00.000-07:00

It seems funny to me looking back and seeing how miserable I was. It felt like I was buried deep into a swirling black vortex of destruction sucking every ounce of life out of me. Every corner I turned it was as if my nightmare got continually worse and worse.

These days, as many of you have noticed...I am not dealing with the same issues. No, the free weekend in LA sure cured me of alot. Of course, apparently that wasn't enough to cure me of EVERY little issue in my head.

Nope, the good Lord had something else in mind.

Here at work we are asked to take quizzes here and there to familiarize ourselves with the properties we take care of. There are over 3200 worldwide and more to come. I take the quizzes, even if they aren't in my area...WHY?!

To participate.

Marriott loves it when people participate. I will participate in any event I can, within reason of course. So, I turned in my quiz.

Today, while I was helping a delightful guest with his reservation in one of our luxury resorts an e-mail popped in. The results from the quiz. At the end...the winners!!!

Would you believe it? I won...Again!!!

No exciting trips this time...just a shiny new BluRay DVD player.

I'll be picking that up early on Monday!!!!

If you feel the earth shake...don't panic....it's me dancing.

Hu-What?!

2010-03-30T19:38:00.000-07:00

I received a call today...a rather entertaining one to be perfectly honest.

It went something like this:

"Good Afternoon! Thank you for calling Marriott reservations...How can I help you today?"

"Hi, I'm looking for a suite in April for two nights."

She proceeds to give me the dates and I search....nothing.

"I'm sorry, Ma'am. I've got no rooms available."

"Are you sure you've got no suites available. I'm in desperate need."

"Sure, let me double check."

"Thank you so much. I'm Paris Hilton's assistant and the home she had rented for the weekend is not in livable conditions any longer. I'm desperate to find a place for her."

Now, here's where things go silent in my head...your family owns the Hilton chain and you can't get a room at ANY Hilton. I was so tempted to as if she'd like to become a Marriott Rewards Member...Just a thought you know!!!

I so enjoy my job sometimes!!!

I DID IT!!!!!

2010-03-29T18:25:00.000-07:00

I felt as if I were making my triumphant entry back to church. We walked in and sat down early as the girls rushed off to their quick rehearsal before sacrament meeting began. All was quiet. One after another the nameless faces began filing in. I remembered some of their faces, but their names escape me. I haven't seen any of them since last October...how was I supposed to remember their names. I sat quietly and read my scriptures...soaked in the spirit. As sacrament meeting was getting ready to begin the bishop and his counselors emerged from his office and took the stand. His eyes looked out upon the congregation and fell upon our family. All 5 of us...sitting quietly. Both he and his counselors saw me at the same time. I received three big smiles from the stand, a wave from two counselors and two thumbs up from the bishop. All through sacrament meeting I saw our bishop's eyes glancing in our family's direction with a big smile spread across his face. I may have even glanced upon a little tearage up there.

After sacrament meeting I went to play with all of my little friends in nursery. I still had my calling to attend to. I found myself grateful for the leaders who give my children rides when we can't make it. I am thankful for the leaders that teach my children how to have strong testimonies. I am thankful for a bishop who pulled back on the ourse strings for the adult activities in the ward so that our youth could attend both Young Women's Camp and Scout Camp compliments of our ward. My jaw dropped as we were told no payment was due for either camp. I felt a thankful burning in my heart knowing what a blessing it was to be in this ward.

I remembered back to the afternoon in California when I was lead to the apartment complex nearly 30 minutes from my brother-in-law and sister-in-law's home. I was literally lead to this ward....and I feel blessed and now I know why.

The Beginning...of the End.

2010-03-27T18:23:00.000-07:00

Is it "The End" already?! How could the time have flown past my eyes?! She was just an itty bitty!!!

All right!!! I confess!!!! She was NEVER "itty bitty" to anyone but her abnormally tall parents. I'm simply milimeters from being 6 ft while hubby is well over 6 ft. "Amazon" children were most certainly guaranteed.

So, Why?!

Why am I going on like this?! In less than a year my oldest is going to be turning 16!!! We just received her education packet in the mail from the State Of Texas. Now I have to pick out the right course for her and begin her driver's training. In less than nine months she'll be driving, dating and become a Laurel.

Do you know what that means?!?!?!

No, I;m truly not hyperventilating, but truly our children are with us at home for a blink of the eye before they prepare to go out on their own. Only 3 years until leaving for college I already see her preparing to fly from the nest. She is excited to learn to drive, a skill she will need her entire life. She just finished reading the entire Book of Mormon and is 1 small project away from earning her Young Women's Medallion. She has also decided on her own to earn the Honor Bee in which she needs to read the Book of Mormon...again and provide 40 hours of service. She prepares to be sealed in the temple by holding her own limited use temple recommend. She prepares for life by working hard on her schoolwork. She prepares for her eternal salvation by being a good example and a terrific leader for the rest of the Mia Maids.

Where did the time go? She used to need me for everything. Now, she needs me to start letting go...bit by bit.

However, dear friends...this is not the Beginning of the End as I originally thought.

It is the beginning...of a new beginning.

Again...

2010-03-25T19:18:00.000-07:00

I'll tell you a secret...

Come closer...

C'mon!!! You can get closer than that!!!

Good...

In my family, we've tied, and failed multiple times, to hide a secret from the world.

We're not normal.

More than once we've been told by people we know, and some we've never met how our family is strange. We've heard it all before.

Strange

Weird

Abnormal

Amusing

AND

completely and utterly entertaining.

Many have told us we should have our own reality show. Wouldn't that be interesting? A camera crew following us all around on our adventures. Watching us...watch them. We're not that amusing...or are we?

I'm sure I'll get some nasty notes from people, but I've got be hoenst of how I view the world.

For example, last night I was relaxing and watching TV with Molly Bee. With nothing to watch and flipping through the channel aimlessly. I came across a show about small children competing in pageants. As far as I am conerned, pageants for children that young are nothing more than child abuse. Who wants to take such a pure beautiful face...and oh yes, each and every single one of those children are adorably beautiful...with pounds of makeup, hair sprayed so much it wouldn't move in a Class 5 tornado. If they want to dress in elegant dresses, go ahead, but remember...THEY ARE CHILDREN!!!!! And when they cry, love them...don't force them to keep practicing. When they're sick...forget the stupid pageant and KEEP THEM IN BED!!! Don't tell them the "show must go on."

Utterly Ridiculous!!!!!

Anyway, in our efforts to entertain ourselves my youngest did a pageant walk, best imitating the lessons each young girl worked so hard at. From there...our lack of sanity just took over.

We began walking the runway as...

Zombies,

Hippies,

Women going into labor,

Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade baloons,

babies learning to walk,

and the Easter Bunny.

It was fun and hysterical...especially to us.

So...what happened? My darling youngest told her friends all about it. They laughed and told her...we should have our own reality show. Oh yeah...I'm sure the world is ready for that!!! However, if we get some free time, maybe we'll recreate our walks and post them. We're like that you know.

BEEP!!!! This is a recording!!!

2010-03-25T17:39:00.000-07:00

Seriously, I don't know whether to take it as a compliment or just feel plain insulted.

No less than 5 guests in the past week have told me my voice sounded like a recording.

OUCH!!!!

I thought to myself: "Really?! My voice must sound bad!!!"

However, today one of our dear Platinum Members (Platinum= Living in any Marriott for approximately 1/3 of the year) explained sweetly I should take it as a compliment.

His exact phrase was: "If I could hear your voice everytime I called to make a reservation I'd be staying at Marriott 365 days a year."

BLUSH!!!

Oh yes, these men flirt. Regardless of age, they enjoy flirting. Mind you most of them are single. I won't guarantee all. I'm not THAT naive. I've had gentlemen ask me out to drinks when they visit the resorts I'm booking for them. I've had cameramen offer to bring me a loaf of sourdough bread fresh from San Francisco. After saving one gentleman over $1600 for a group of rooms he was booking for himself and co-workers He wanted to have all of his co-workers take me out to dinner. They even planned on renting a stretch limo so that all 12 of these men could escort me out to dinner. I've taken care of ambassadors, members of congress, producers, music legends, vice presidents of Major League Baseball Clubs and others.

The sweetest moment was an elderly man was making a reservation. In my old jobs I've often called my customers "sweetheart" or "honey." I let it slip when I was talking to him. He choked up a bit. I apologized profusely thinking I'd offended him. He quickly regained his composure and asked me not to worry about it. He said his wife of 40 years called him sweetheart the same way I had. She passed away 5 years earlier. I let it slip one more time and he wished me a good day, this time on purpose.

On a daily basis I feel honored with the sweet words of praise they send my way. However, I find myself stuck. The whole recorded voice thing...should I take it as a compliment? Or should I take offense?

It really could go either way...I think I'll take it as a compliment.

Who knows?

Perhaps someday...I'll be the voice of Marriott.

Oh yeah!!!

I'm spoiled...

2010-03-19T17:54:00.000-07:00

Rotten to the core...that's what I am. I had to go into work during a last minute rush as my computer refused to upload the Marriott system. Needless to say I was unthrilled as I hadn't bothered to dry my hair...being a little lazy that day and it looked bad...I mean worse than bad. I looked like one of the homeless wandering the streets of San Antonio. However, I was there. My boss greeted me with open arms welcoming me back into the office and making sure I was paid for my time, even though I was sitting in the car on the way to the freeway. I got paid to drive into work yesterday...NICE!!!

Of course I paid for it later when my third and final bus transfer came in nearly 45 minutes late...I could've walked home from the Medical Center...it's only a couple miles.

Anyhoo!!!!My boss was quick to ask if I'd received my certificate for my free weekend stay. When I admitted I hadn't she said in her sweetest voice.

"No worries, sweetie, I'll take care of everything." She is the tiniest little woman and I adore her. She was born in Turkey and grew up in Germany...there are times when her english makes no sense structurally, but we all adore her and understand what she is telling us anyway.

A few minutes later the Southern California manager arrive with certificate and folder in hand. He gave me a quick hug...no political correctness in our office. We all love each other and look at each other as a family, nothing more, nothing less. I was congratulated. Of course I thanked him and told him how excited I was for this. He quickly explained this certificate is one of the most expensive prizes they have given this year. 2 nights= over $1,000. WOW!!!! I am in shock. Hubby has agreed to go along even though the thought of being in California reminds us of the heartbreak we've endured over the past couple years. The manager also was quick to tell me to call and book quickly as they wanted to provide 2 tickets to the Grammy Hall of Fame museum which was nearby.

I'll book when I get to my day off on Monday.

And yes...I'm not just well taken care of...I'm spoiled.

P.S.

I am THRILLED!!!! I found out the woman Don works with was offered a job in my office. She will now become my sister in the Marriott family. It felt good to help another who has been struggling.

Hu-What!?!?!?!

2010-03-15T18:09:00.000-07:00

One of the blessings of Marriott is working with fabulous people and being able to meet some incredibly fabulous people at incredibly fabulous properties.

In a crazy turn of events the lovely men at CPS were working on replacing the electric boxes at our apartments. Knowing the power had gone out 3 times before I managed to get the kids off to school I jumped into my, nearly forgotten, business attire and woke my hubby to warn him I was running into the office to work that day.

AND it was a good thing I did.

L.A. Live J.W. Marriott & Ritz Carlton was visiting to promote their property. One team in our office books the Southern California area which was the reason why they came to visit. In true LA style they catered in lunch to us, brought in the red carpet as I rambled on about before.

One thing that ALWAYS happens on these visits is a quiz that helps us to familiarize ourselves with the properties.

Being the Cali girl I am an LA quiz was nuthin' I know the area and it was easy to familiarize myself with the property. Located across the street from the Nokia Center, where American Idol and the Grammys are televised from and within a block of the Staples center, where the Laker's play I knew that area. Wolfgang Puck's is there. There are incredibly Chic restaurants in the area and a fun place to be. Selling this property, was going to be a snap.

Being the travel nerd I am I check my work e-mails several times a day, even when not working, to keep up to date. I received 37 alone today.

Tonight a special e-mail was in my inbox. One that was mailed throughout my office.

Ken, our So. Cal Manager announced the winner of the quiz....Really? There was a prize? I had no idea.

Can you believe it?!

I WON!!!!!

I started screaming...the kids ran into the room wondering what was happening. I won a 2 night stay on a friday /saturday night in the Junior Suite including breakfast for 2 and valet parking. I can barely believe it!!! What a wonderful blessing!!! My kids were thrilled, but knew I wouldn't be able to take everyone. My youngest threw in the suggestion that I should use it to go away for the weekend with hubby for our anniversary this fall.

PERFECT!!!!!

How fun would that be for us?!

And hubby? Is he excited?

Well, he's at work...he has no idea of our upcoming adventure. I can't wait!!!

Faith...Part 2

2010-03-15T14:52:00.000-07:00

Faith, I believe, is a very hard trait to refine. You can have faith in others, that may or may not let you down. You can have faith of the sun rising and know it will rise...or will it? You can have faith in your Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, but once you know....knowing with every fiber of your being...is it faith at all?

I've tested my faith this week. I called Heavenly Father with every ounce of my being. My desire to return back to church has come full circle. I am done playing the missing Mom at church. I am done not knowing anyone at church. Most of all I am done receiving the looks from some of the sisters in the ward which adds up to them thinking I am inactive. Am I taking it to heart? No. Does it bother me? Perhaps a smidge. It reminds me often not to make judgements on anyone as we don't know their circumstances.

So...when the bidding day came up for my job I requested each and every schedule that included Sunday off...including my 3:30pm- midnight shifts. Believe me, it's not my favorite shift in the world being that I have to get up at 5am every morning to prepare my oldest for seminary.

This morning, I received my schedule for next month....

3:30-Midnight

SIGH!!!!

So I put in for a shift change...having faith.

Nearly 6 hours later I received an e-mail agreeing to change my shift from the 3:30-midnight to....

Drum Roll Please....

11:30am-8pm

Still not my favorite, but I have Weekends off. I CAN GO TO CHURCH!!!!

Not only that, but hubby has been given a time slot for an interview with Amtrak on the 26th.

My faith is growing. My heart is full and my children are smiling...

Having Faith...

2010-03-13T20:09:00.001-08:00

After overcoming my instant popularity at work for booking George Clooney's revervation...which included my manager running through the sales floor clutching a trendy LA magazine with my caller gracing the front compliments of the JW Marriott at LA Live who just happened to be visiting. Needless to say work was a little crazy for the two days I spent in the office. I was spoiled by my beloved Courtyard Waikiki who filled my desk with Honolulu Cookie company treats, a giant bamboo clothes pin, to be used for who knows what, and a variety of holders that will attach my purse to a table while out dining so it doesn't need to lay on the floor. So sweet, unfortunately I never use a purse, but who knows...someday I may carry one and actually need this.

Returning to work at home was a welcome treat indeed. As I sat taking in calls my phone lit up...not the one I work on mind you, but my actual home phone. It read out of the area. After I finsihed with my guest I paused my calls and listened to the message. Amtrak was calling. Not for me...for hubby. We had wandered across a position on the Amtrak website and it was truly perfect for him. I was so thankful. It plays to every single one of his strengths. Excited, we put in for it hoping we would get that one in a million chance for him to prove himself and get an interview.

He was quizzed about his background by the human resource manager and was told he would be conducting interviews at the end of the month. He was promised a time would be e-mailed to him. He got off the phone stunned. 2 hours later a repeat call of the same gentleman quizzing him again on the same questions. Perhaps that tactic works on some people in slipping up on their answers, but not my ultra honest hubby. Never ask him if you look fat in those pants...the truth will come out. This time he was given a time to show up and to be prepared for an interview with the human resources manager. I am excited and thrilled for him. He is truly putting himself out there for a job he will really love. He will need to travel, but if he is happy, no worries there.

My thoughts?! You're going to love my reasoning:

If he gets a discount on Amtrak...and I get a discount on Marriott....SUH WEET!!!!!

So, on the 26th he will put himself on the line and go for it. Thank heavens he already has the day off from work.

Such blessings!!!!

He Called....

2010-03-07T15:11:00.000-08:00

Oh brother! I froze for a moment when I figured out just who I was speaking to...and when he said "Serafina", my work name, my knees became weak, my heart began to pound and I was forced to pick my jaw up off the floor.

Let's just say I could day dream about this gentleman whether being on the ground or up in the air. I would never say no to him if her were my doctor, or my kids' for that matter. I would cross 11,12 even 13 oceans to meet this gentleman.

So, who was he?

I can't tell you...but I already did!!!

Let's see how many can figure this out.

GOOD LUCK!!!

One Minute With the Spirit...

2010-03-06T08:25:00.000-08:00

Most of you know I've been working my life away in an attempt to get our family's lives back on track. What you may not know is with my employment I've not been able to set a foot inside church since last October.

As a Convert, a badge burned into my heart forever, I've learned what life is like without a testimony and grasping in the dark to find a source of light. 18 1/2 years ago I made the choice to forgo my worldly ways and draw closer to Christ, beginning my journey along the straight and narrow path. My testimony is strong and does not waver.

I've formed a plan to get me back to church, but I have to wait for the position to open. Plain and simple. I'll work my rear end off until the position opens and I will move on over to the other group...if, of course, I get the position.

One of the hardships of having one car in a family is making sure our kids can get to all of their activities and get us to work when we need it. Today was one of those days. Hubby had to be at work by 8am, Bryan needed to be at his school at 8:30am for a field trip, Molly needed to be at the church at 9am for road show rehearsal and somehow we needed to make it happen since we are talking needing to be 3 places at once basically.

Hubby dropped Bryan and I off at the market near his school at 7am where I treated him to a doughnut and chocolate milk. We waited at the school until his teacher arrived and students began to gather. At the same time I left my girls left the apartment 5 miles away to walk to church, only a mile or so from our home. I caught the bus for a couple miles and jumped off when we neared the church. I stopped for a moment at the church to make sure my girls made it safely. I spent approximately one minute in the church before completing the final mile push home.

I thought back to my previous life, where we attended church together as a family every Sunday...there was nothing stopping us. I remember attending mutual every wednesday and enjoying my time with the laurels I was called to serve. My life was centered around the church. My children's lives were centered around the church. Such a drastic change from where we are now.

As I walked away from the beautiful red brick building my heart was filled. Tears filled my eyes as I knew Heavenly Father had rushed a recharge to my very soul. I know He cares for me and understands my struggles. I know He sees my heart and supports me with His Heavenly hands when I feel I can't stand any longer. He is there for all of us, but I know today, in that one minute He was there to share his heart with me. Even now, I tear up thinking about it.

It's amazing to me how He is always there, but do we look? Do we keep our eyes and hearts open to His appearances and helping hands in our lives? Or do we continue to walk along with blinders. For myself, though i knew He was understanding and loving me through my struggles I donned the blinders focusing on what I needed to be doing to get my family to where they need to be.

Today, I challenge you all to take the blinders off. Open your eyes. Open your heart and feel His warmth. Feels His arms encircled around you. Feels His heart open unto you.

Secret Date

2010-03-04T18:11:00.000-08:00

Oh yes...the secret date. We've done it before, snuck away from the prying eyes and whining of our teens and pre-teen. Of course, sometimes we've snuck away on a far grander scale. This time, we chose to remain close. We dropped the kids off at school, showered, dressed and jumped in the car...snacks in hand.

Among the animals we did wander and lose ourselves. Later, upon telling our kids of our adventures the oldest humphed not truly caring. Our tween sighed saying how she wished she could've gone.

After walking around the zoo we opted to take the train on a ride. I would've taken more pics, but my camera died...literally took its last breath....at least the battery did.

It was so worth it and we found so many more wonderful places to go...for free!!!!

Free date nights!!! Love it!!!

Is It Wrong To Love A Chair?!

2010-02-26T18:08:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I waited, on pins and needles. They gave me a 4 hour window to their arrival.

Since the downward spiral of last year and our move we didn't have room to pack all of our belongings in the truck...instead we left some behind. We left a lot behind. Our couches and chairs were the first victims. Instead, upon arrival we bought several cheap butterfly chairs. They were wonderful at first as an alternative to sitting on the ground. However, as the days, weeks and months passed so did their health as they all began to break apart. The frames broke, the cushions broke and were resewn several times. However, we made due, not complaining.

Upon arrival of our tax rebate check we began to snoop around the sales until we found just the right furniture. Instead of a couch we opted to buy two recliners, something to bring us comfort...in our old age.

Yesterday we waited, hoping the wait wouldn't last too long. At 10:59am the call came, they were nearby and on their way into the apartment complex. Our beloved new family members have arrived...and we sat. Our backs screamed with gratitude as we set the recliners to their fully stretched out position. No much longer and I was dead asleep...Oh what a glorious nap it was.

Can a person fall in love with a chair?

Just checking!

ART Update!!!

2010-02-23T19:42:00.000-08:00

Corinna received her results for the Visual Scholastic Art Event which happened on Saturday. After 6 months of classwork she earned level four for her art, which basically means she mastered the techniques she was taught. She was awarded a medal to signify her accomplishment. And though she will not head to the state competition we are so proud...especially when her art teacher spoke to us about the possiblity of her art being put in for the district competition in May and offering to write a recommendation letter for Corinna's college applications needed in three years.

Congrats Rinni!!! We love you!!!

My Testimony...

2010-02-22T20:29:00.001-08:00

One of the hardest parts of my life has been missing church. I'm missing my time sitting in sacrament meeting, feeling my knees ache, sometimes bringing me to near tears, as I listen to the speakers. I miss sitting in Sunday School...learning with my hubby next to me. I miss Relief Society, sitting with the sisters in my ward. I miss getting to know the sisters in my ward and silently wish I could get to know some of them. I miss having friends.

As hard as it has been to miss church, what an incredible blessing has fallen over my family, both blood and church. We have caring leaders of our youth who give my kids rides to mutual when needed. We have an incredible bishop who is filled with compassion of pure love of Christ. We have great scout leaders to guide my son to his eagle. My children have learned independence in my absence at church. They have been watched over by our home teachers as have we. My spirit may lack the the recharge I felt every Sunday, but as I pray I learn this will not last forever...it is simply a season. My family is blessed by the support they are given...and our ward is blessed by the unfaltering service they've given.

At first we questioned why we felt strongly we needed to move to San Antonio, but I now know it was for us all to learn. I needed to let go of the charge of my family in their church activities and literally depend on the Lord to guide us.

As I told you about before my son has taken charge of his spirituality as he prepared his talk. I asked how his talk went and he told me that halfway through the spirit led him to a different avenue in how to teach the young men and he folded his well crafted talk and taught from the spirit. My daughters are constantly excited about helping less active girls in our ward find a reason to attend and go to the temple once a quarter. They even carry their own personal limited use recommends. I couldn't teach these things to my children, I could only help create the atmosphere in which they felt comfortable to live their lives as children of God with no apologies to anyone.

This craziness in the past year has truly become an epic journey for our family and I am grateful for that trek. I'm even more grateful that throughout our journey when we were left with less than $3.00 in our pockets to feed our family we had the Lord standing with us with his arms around us. I know He watches over us and blesses us more than even we can imagine. I will always be grateful and will look back decades down the line celebrating our chance in the refiner's fire and remembering it as a triumph on this earth, drawing our eyes and hearts to His. I know the gospel is true and I know Jesus Christ is my elder brother whom I love dearly and feel his presence daily. I am truly grateful for the beautiful souls that surround my family and I and celebrate our triumphs and support us during our trials.

I say this in the name of Jesus Christ...Amen

I Watched.....

2010-02-20T20:11:00.000-08:00

I watched curiously as my son opened the printer and extracted two pieces of paper. He walked quietly back to his room. I peeked around the corner and watched him. There he sat, perched on his bed. His scriptures sat open in his lap and he held his "For Strength of Youth" pamphlet. I watched him for a few minutes as he read, then scribbled, read, then scribbled more. He followed this pattern for several minutes and I backed away feeling overwhelmed as a mother.

After he finished whatever he was working on he emerged from his room and I questioned him on what he was up to.

Nothing.

What was the paper for?

Oh, I just had to write a talk.

You're speaking in sacrament meeting?

No, for ward conference, I was asked to speak during priesthood.

Do you need any help?

No, I finished it.

Several days later I sat in his room talking to him and I asked if i could read his talk...He kept saying no, but FINALLY I persuaded him to let me read it. I was touched. His simple words were so beautiful to me. They touched my heart and as I drank in his message I thought of how blessed I feel as his mother.

He is a different boy. For the most part he is a happy, easy going, laid back kid. He is and will always be my beautiful, blue eyed boy. I can see an eternity in his eyes. His spirit is precious. I learn from his example. When it is time to go to do fast offerings, go to a meeting, call other boys in his quorum, speak...I've never heard a complaint pass his lips. When it comes to my cooking...that's a whole other ballgame. However, when it is the Lord's errand...not a hint of a complaint.

I don't know if that is normal. I can't seem to figure that out. I don't have anything to compare him to. I feel like the mother of a Stripling Warrior, but I recognize I can't take the credit. Sure, we love him and try to teach him as we try to teach all of them, but the credit truly goes to his young men's leaders and leadership we've been blessed to live under.

So, for now, I'll watch in the shadows and smile as I see my son grow into the terrific young man and future missionary serving the Lord with all his heart, all his mind and all his might. And every single day I will whisper my thanks to the good men who lead my son in truth and righteousness.

So grateful tonight...it was worth losing everything.

Sometimes you need to lose everything...to gain everything...worth gaining that is.

Getting Up at 5:30am on Saturday...Priceless

2010-02-20T10:13:00.000-08:00

Waking up at 5:30am on a Saturday may not seem like fun for all, but for me...it was priceless.

My alarm went off and I leapt from my bed on the way to wake up my oldest. She was able to sleep in today...5am wake up on Seminary mornings after all. She was awake...for 10 minutes trying to calm her nerves. Today after all was her day.

I showered and got changed while hubby, begrudgingly rolled out of bed and forced his eyes open...he has never been a morning person, but he woke up. The three of us quickly ate and headed out, my youngest two snoozed away as we left.

We drove through the fog to reach a high school across town. Outside we waited and waited until Corinna's teacher FINALLY arrived. As the other high schoolers rode in, cars, busses, whatever it took Corinna held tight to her artwork her teacher had asked her to enter into the Visual Art Scholastic Education regional competition. School after school began to appear as the artsy kids we know and love talked exitedly about their craft. Such amazing talents of the youth around here.

One by one the kids were led to their assigned classroom where a Juror anxiously awaited each student. Each student was questioned about their piece of art and the technique they used. They also were able to talk about their feelings and what message they hoped to accomplish with their artwork.

VERY few parents were there in support of their children. It's not like we can go into their interview with them. A handful of us sat watching the artists of tomorrow nervously await their judging...

The verdict? We won't know until monday. However, I think she rocked it with her self portrait!!!

C'Mon Ref!!!!

2010-02-18T04:07:00.000-08:00

Their job is to know the rules an enforce them, even when it makes them less popular. People yelling at them all the time, getting boo'ed, making tough calls that aren't always easy to call. I honestly felt sorry for them.

How stupid was I?

I'm talking about referees, NFL Refs in particular, or at least the one I spoke to the other day. Here's the scenario:

When a conference group wants to come meet at one of our locations they talk to our Group Housing Division. Larger resorts have a group housing person directly on property as was this case. A group will come to the Event Planner and tell them how many rooms they need. A contract is drawn, signed and the conference is set. Nothing to it really.

What gets ugly is when the rooms start to run out. I spoke to this paticular referee who informed me that I was being ridiculous in telling him there were no more rooms in the block, or the resort for that matter, as he hadn't received a room as of yet. He told me in the paper he received he would be able to book the extra room nights he wanted. I tried over and over to explain to this gentleman that the entire resort was sold out. He refused to listen as he had a paper with words printed on it. Every time I attempted to explain how this works he bcame argumentative and rude. In the end, I told the dear man that what he held in his hand was not a contract. It was a piece of paper the confrence organizer had typed out. It wasn't the contract.

I couldn't beleive how angry this man left me feeling. I had to take time off my calls to calm myself to keep it from floating across to my next unsuspecting guest. Somehow, I don't feel sorry for these men any longer.

You need some glasses Ref?! Uh...I mean for the fine print.

Valentine's Thankfulness...

2010-02-14T15:06:00.000-08:00

It's Valentine's Day and I spent the day taking reservations for those who are deeply in love and canceling for those who'd broken up. I'm not one that ever swooned about Valentine's Day. In my past years the day has pretty much came to the same outcome every year...I work, Don runs off in his overly loud truck to pick up a dozen roses for me. This year...so much different.

I finished my shift and unplugged for the day, my kids made their way home from church and my hubby was on his way to work. So much different, but so much better. I received a sweet hug and a hubby who made me a delicious breakfast on friday morning. So sweet.

I'm not one to watch the news, much to negative in my opinion, except tonight. The daytime running of Olympics program finished and the news just happened to follow. They mentioned a young confused teen playing Xbox live who was bragging he had a plan to overrun his high school, shoot a pregnant girls and shoot his best friend in the face, among others. A Canadian teen who happened to be alarmed by this talk notified the Canadian Mounties who in turn notified the San Antonio police department which followed the lead and arrested the young man before any harm could be caused.

I am thankful that my baby is safe and the young man will now get the help he needs. Today, I am thankful for so much more than a day to celebrate love.

Closing in on my 40's...

2010-02-04T07:39:00.000-08:00

Some may balk at my claim that I truly don't care how old I am...but I don't. Age is simply a number after all. Besides, if you really think about it, with the belief system I have, we lived in the pre-existance and how many birthdays did I have there? Hundreds? Thousands? So...my age here? PSHAW!!!! Doesn't matter!!!

Why yes, I am phylisophical genius!!!

Anyway, I am nearing my 39th birthday...in 6 months and I've begun to think about all the fabulous things that will happen in my 40's. You see, in my 20's I was married and had all of my children. My 30's...guiding my kids to the incredibly awesome people they are becoming.

Here's my list of what can or will happen in my Fabulous 40's:

Teaching my kids how to drive
Kids all gradute from high school
Taking my kids off to college
3 college graduations (crossing fingers)
Sending my son and maybe even daughters on a mission
Becoming an empty nester
Possible weddings
Slightest chance of a grandchild
Learning to vacation without my kids

Can this fill an entire decade?

And just think how close I'll come to the senior discounts!!!!

The Grim Reaper of Reservations

2010-02-01T05:02:00.000-08:00

Friday was impossible. Saturday was bad. Sunday was looking that way too. The weekend is a true killer on reservationist's stats. However, this weekend I felt as if I should be carrying a scythe and wearing a long black hood.

Pointing my bony fingers at the screen I erased the hard work of a co-worker somewhere as I cancelled the resrvations one by one. I didn't ask to cancel...the guests did. Perhaps they should don the long black cloack isntead, but it didn't feel like it. I wondered how many more wee out there feeling the same way. How many were canceling out my reservations? Drats...there goes more of my stats!!!

Monday brings happiness in my world...travel agents, secretaries and personal assistants all calling to make new reservations. For now the cloak hangs in the closet and the scythe off for sharpening.

Who says Monday is a bad day?!

A Dream...

2010-01-30T18:22:00.000-08:00

I've had many dreams in my life. Writing has always been its centerpiece, but there others. I hide them mostly, but one has slipped past my zipped lips. As most of you know I love travel. No, rather I LOOOOVVVVEEEE travel. I miss the days of packing a suitcase, slipping it in the trunk, throwing the ice chest in the backseat and heading down the open highway. Do you remember those times? Essentially it was BK...Before Kids.

Traveling with young children is like solving a Rubik's Cube without pulling the stickers from the cube or prying the cube apart. My sister-in-law can solve the silly thing in 5 minutes...no matter how long it takes us to mess it up....we hate her....Just Kidding!!! You spend what amounts to half a day packing and repacking the car until you manage to fit everything, including the kitchen sink, into the trunk of a Toyota Tercel. Even Master Packers crack under the pressure of traveling with small children.

When I traveled for the first time without my family...a cruise to the Mexican Riviera. No worrying about anyone else, but myself. So incredibly worth it. I will never forget that trip. Traveling with just hubby to Italy was an incredible adventure I will never forget. It was fun and I was able to soak in the history of the world. Standing in places such as the Pantheon, the Colosseum or the Sistine Chapel....it changes you. Studying the incredible precision in which Michelangelo's David was created. It takes your breath away.

My main dream is to travel all over the world, taking pictures and soaking in the Earth's culture....however hubby and I are planning a new dream. Someday, we will travel all over North America, experiencing the incredible beauty there is to see all over the US and Canada together. After we get the kids through college we'll put away for something a little more selfish...a motorhome. No plans of where we will travel. We'll simply pull out a map and go....complete and total freedom. We'll travel some spring,all summer, and return sometime in the fall. An adventure of epic proportions. We have a few friends who are thinking of doing the same thing. It could be fun.

So my question is....if you could go anywhere...see anything in North America...what would it be? I'm taking notes!!!

Ready for Some R & R

2010-01-29T11:51:00.000-08:00

It's not going to be dull...it never is.

I fully expect some singing...more 80's songs than you can think of. Perhaps the boys will treat us to another rendition of "Every Rose Has Its Thorn"

There may be some dancing...

However, I may have to do this

Especially if we have visitors.

All in all, it will be a fun time...a much needed time to laugh and smile.

Party on Bill!
Party on Ted

Really?! Are you serious?!

2010-01-28T15:08:00.000-08:00

Are there really people like this in the world?!

I've heard of them and always believed them to be fictional...something created to make Jerry Springer or Judge Judy popular.

I've come to the conclusion: I was wrong.

This major accident...and by major I mean no lasting damage to my car, no damage to my children or the children in the other car. In fact, there's not even a scratch where our cars touched. Simply a dull mark on my otherwise normally shiny car...well, if I took the time to wash it that is.

New Year's Eve...yes, I was headed to the Spurs game, the one I had hoped my husband could take the kids to as I had no desire to go. our fenders touched, we stopped exchanged information and left from there. I've got no cell phone and therefore was unable to call the police. She had a cell phone, but had no desire to call them. So we left it to our insurance companies.

At first reporting the accident my insurance company claims person didn't take my side. They simply waited for the facts to come in first. Sounds fair to me. I'd hope they would be objective like that. I reported my side of the story to her and they asked that I take it to their appraiser to take photos of the car. The look on the appraiser's face when he couldn't find any damage was priceless.

The next morning my phone rang...on the other end...the woman who hit my car. She was angry and told me she was suing me and taking em to court. I got a little worried and discussed the matter with my insurance company. The sweet woman in claims called the other woman's insurance company and told her to stop calling me. Any communication needed to go through the insurance company.

So what happened next? She called me again this afternoon angry and completely upset. She attempted to bully me into calling her so she could get my address to subpoena me and take me to court. She claimed her children were all injured. She claimed to think I was a good samaritan at first accepting what I had done wrong. And now she realized what a horrible person I was.

Guess what I'm going to buy this weekend?

A digital voice recorder.

Why?!

To record each and every message this woman leaves claiming I injured her children.

My question?

If the children were all injured why did she not tell her insurance company when she filed her claim? Why didn't she call the police at the scene if she had a cell phone and I didn't? if I sideswiped her vehicle trying to cut her off...where is the damage to my car? Just a thought.

What was that saying about when you give a person enough rope?

Hmmm.....Just checking.

Aloha Monday!!!!

2010-01-24T09:46:00.000-08:00

Tomorrow I look forward to my day off....although my day off may seem a bit different this week. I'm heading into work. I've got my resorts to visit with. We have the Spirit of Aloha Tour Bus coming through and we, the Resort Desk reservations team will be greeted by the resorts and flanked by lovely hula dancers as we talk about our island paradise we sell everyday. I'm looking forward to getting to talk to each representative to find out things such as the rooms, restaurants, amenities, pools, luaus, and all the other important facts that make hawaiian a dream for vacation goers. To be honest, I am excited. The travel nerd inside of me is waking me up early to get a chance to see the wonderful photos and learn the inside information about the resorts. So, my dear friends, if monday gets you down...why don't you join me on a staycation in your mind to the incredible Hawaiian Islands? Just a thought!!

Frustrated & Angry

2010-01-21T14:35:00.000-08:00

I had a great day at work. Plenty of reservations to give me excellent stats for today. I was having a great time and I was looking forward to a nice relaxing evening with the kids and my insurance company calls. The woman who hit my car with hers on New Year's Eve told my insurance company I sideswiped her as I tried to cut her off. Huh-What?!?!?! Are you kidding me?!?!?! She ran into me...I never changed lanes!!!! How did I hit her when I was in my own lane?!?!? Yet another reason why you should never talk on your cell phone like she was doing. Now I have to take my car into the appraiser for them to inspect my vehicle...Oh I can help them...Any one see any damage? All I see was some dirt moved away from my fender. Until then I will work hard on letting go of my anger and frustration....The truth will come out in the end...I hope!

How Do You Know?

2010-01-19T07:11:00.000-08:00

How do you know your hubby loves you?

I know because when I am asleep when he gets home late from work...he takes off my socks, while I'm sleeping, tucks my feet under the covers nice and cozy like and then puts my socks in the laundry bag, before kissing me goodnight on the forehead and whispering "I'm home sweetie."

Sigh!!!

Testing Wings...

2010-01-12T13:05:00.000-08:00

I've never had a hard time watching my kids grow up. I've enjoyed them spreading their wings, but in the past 24 hours something has happened. Nothing bad, it's just simple realization. Next week is my oldest's 15th birthday.

Now, let it be said I love watching my kids grow and tunr into the fabulous people they are.

I love waking her up at 5am to get ready for seminary and driving her so early in the morning. We get a chance to talk.

I love it when she arrives home from a church dance and she recounts the events with friends and the young men who've asked her to dance.

I love watching her abilities as an artist grow. Her talent at first was a fun thing to watch grow. She is very humble about her abilities and finds herself continually surprised by remarks from her teacher and a request to put her art into a district wide art competition...for her self portrait. I've only seen a tiny picture of it on her cell phone, but it was amazing. I can't wait to see it in person.

In just one year, my beautiful girl will be getting her driver's license and start dating some of the incredible young men in the area and turning into a Laurel.

I realize now what little precious time I have left with not only her, but my other two as well.

My Baby & Manu

2010-01-06T17:53:00.000-08:00

LOOK HERE!!!
In an effort to share with my family I am putting this video from Molly's latest win with the Spurs. She came home with the tickets today. She's intent on finding someone to give them to as we won't be going since it is Sunday. Molly is the one to the right of Mr Gnobli. I appreciated him spending time with the kids and reiterating how important their studies are,

Here We Go Again...

2010-01-05T18:57:00.000-08:00

Oh yeah...I am dead serious. In a completely different contest Miss Molly has done it again. In the San Antonio area, all of the 7th Graders were given a math packet about a month or so to finish. It was filled with a ton of problems to get them thinking. Unfortunately, Molly is some sort of math Rain Man and finished her packet right away. The rest of the time when her classmates struggled to finish the packet she helped her classmates learn how to find the answers. On the due date the packets were to be gathered and graded. For the school who had the highest scores a surprise was in store. The school with the highest score would then gather the students who had attained perfect scores together to celebrate in a way they never expected.

Today she came home to share the news:

"Mom! The principal came onto the loudspeaker and told us if she read our name we were to go to the cafeteria immediately. We didn't know what was going on, but she said my name...so I went. And guess what?!?! Inside the cafeteria was Manu Gnobli of the San Antonio Spurs."

He spent some time with the winners and told them a bit about them a bit about himself and then quizzed them with some fun problems. He took the time to sign autographs for each of the kids and give them each 4 tickets to a Spurs game. Afterwards, we all got together and got out picture taken with him.

"Dude...he's tall" were her parting words.

She also explained that we wouldn't be going to the game since it was on Sunday. She'd already made up her mind.

She's on lucky girl.

And I'm one lucky Mom.

Out with a bang....Or rather a CRASH!!!

2010-01-02T20:58:00.000-08:00

You know those years...the ones that are so fabulous you can't seem to let go of them. The only way to let the year go is in a very special way...and boy did we do it up in true style!!!

It started three weeks ago. Molly was called into the principals office at school. A girl had been claiming Molly had made fun of her....Bullying is a capital offense here in Texas you know.

Fortunately, she was not called in for a repeat performance. Instead she was given the news that she had been chosen as the newest inductee to the Whataburger Winner's Circle. Whataburger is a fast food restaurant that is beyond big here in Texas. They like to support the kids here in San Antonio, and all over the state, by issuing a contest in which all children from the San Antonio who receive straight A's and good citizenship and celebrate their achievements with a night out. Molly had won.

That day she had come home with the news that she had won a night spending the evening at a San Antonio Spurs home game. We all cheered for Molly in winning her night out. Silently I prayed Hubby would have the day off to take her as I am not a fan of basketball. I've never enjoyed the sport and fully believe nothing will change that.

Of course, with a severely tightened budget I worried about the parking fees as well as buying food at the arena...my worries were for nothing. Molly, soon brought home part of her award....4 tickets to the game...a parking pass...and a promise of a meal voucher for 4 Whataburger meals. THANK YOU WHATABURGER!!!

As with the following of all my luck this year hubby did not in fact receive the day off on game day, aka New Year's Eve. And so I was to take the kids to the game.

On game day....following my luck for the past year it was no surprise when a woman hit my car while we were driving to the arena. Oh yea...I am serious. There truly was no serious damage. By the looks of her car this was a common occurrence. She simply added a bit of my paint to her collection. After exchanging formalities we departed to the game.

Arriving an hour ahead of time Molly was escorted down to the court for her picture to be taken. She was brought back to us within a few minutes and we headed to our seats....and about 20 minutes before the game...Molly was welcomed officially by Whataburger and the Spurs.

Once in a lifetime...that's for sure. We celebrated the end to a really interesting year with emotions and actions we would prefer to never have gone through, BUT at the same time...we wouldn't be who we are and where we are without what we had truly gone through. However, the lessons I've learned and the beautiful changes happening are for another post.

Until then....Do you smell that?!

It's a new year...happy 2010 everyone!!!

Reach Up For The Sunrise

2009-12-30T05:52:00.000-08:00

Reach up for the sunrise
Put your hands into the big sky
You can touch the sunrise
Feel the new day enter your life

Many of you know my intense devotion to Duran Duran that has spanned nearly 3 decades of my life. With the new year approaching fast I have another reason to love Simon, John, Roger Nick and Andy....Why yes, I do remember their names!!!

I was listening to some of my favorite 80's tunes while cooking, much to the dismay of my children, when his song came up. "Reach up for the Sunrise" is actually from the 90's I believe and it touched my heart. I've taken it as my new theme for the year. his past year has been....well, shall we say trying.

With the birth of a new year brings new life. A fresh start and reason to let go of last year and start again. Several years down the road we will look back and not remember the pain and stress we were under. We will simply remember the survival and success afterwards. At the end of every night brings the sunrise...a rebirth so to say.

My goal for 2010 is to smile big, laugh often and love everyone around me. However, my biggest goal is to forget...brush off the negativity from last year and step into the sunshine again.

A Walk Amongst The Lights...

2009-12-23T05:45:00.000-08:00

Last night we brought the kids down to the Riverwalk to enjoy the lights. Millions of lights were scattered everywhere. It was beautiful. Unfortunately, we forgot that with it being Christmas week everybody and their brother would be out. However, we found some quieter stretches away from the hustle and bustle of the big city.

My wonderfully beautiful kids were fabulous the entire time...

All right! I confess! I confess! They were driving me nuts!!!! At first everything was great. We were having a great time winding through the Christmas lights and then it started....are we done yet? I'm hungry. I'm so thirsty.
They were more like this:

So, we did what every self respecting parent would do....we made them walk longer. Tee hee!!!

I thought these lights were gorgeous in front of the Westin. Yes, I know I said Westin. They decorated so lovely...It's too bad you can't tell from this photo...the trees are all dead. Yup! Dead. However the lights...beautiful.

Hubby and I were having so much fun with their complaints that we walked clear over to the Alamo...Ok! So it was only a couple blocks away.

I began falling in love with doors while in Italy. The Alamo was no different.

From my family to yours:

Merry Christmas!!!

Twenty Flights...Who needs a Stair Stepper?!?!

2009-12-21T19:36:00.001-08:00

Today was my big day. I returned back to work in the office today as we were touring the new JW Marriott Hill Country Resort & Spa here in San Antonio...I know...it's a mouthful...trying saying it to the guests as they call...Interesting is all I can say.

We arrived this morning and within 2 hours I had climbed 20 flights of stairs.
The meeting room/ballroom are was 3 flights in itself. All elevators are off right now as it is still a construction zone. We climbed the stairs in awe of the incredible craftsmanship only Heavenly Father can bestow on mortal hands. I fell in love with it. I could live there....just give me the Presidential Suite...it's bigger than my apartment.

There are no pools at the resort. It is truly a "Water Experience." Start off at the 3 story water slide and begin your journey down to the lazy river and then onto the fast moving rapids. The kids could spend hours floating from place to place.

I fell in love with their handblown glass flowers hanging from the ceiling.

I can hardly wait to frequent High Velocity...the sports bar where they will serve wings and sodas while we watch none less than 40 different sports games...at the same time

Cibolo Moon is the most incredibly beautiful restaurant filled with wonderfully delicious foods...Yes, we tasted. Yum!!!

Yes, I'm a Travel Nerd. I fell in love with the resort. What's it to ya?!

A Moment in Time...

2009-12-18T12:49:00.000-08:00

It's been a week of excitement in our home. Molly has won a contest in the San Antonio area. She was named by Whataburger as the the winner of the Whataburger Winner's Circle. On New Year's Eve, instead of the usual party and merriment we are heading out to watch the San Antonio Spurs play the Miami Heat. Molly arrived home with a package including 4 tickets, parking permit and dinner for all four from Whataburger. We also received isntructions to call and RSVP. We have an appointment...yes an appointment...to arrive at the Alamodome in the early evening and then be escorted out to the court where Molly will get a video taken of her. She will then be escorted to our seats where we will enjoy the game. From there we will enjoy the game including the point where she will be honored by a presentation on the jumbotron and hear the dome cheer for her being inducted into the Winner's Circle. It will be a nice night where we will enjoy spending time together. I am hoping Hubby can be off work that night to get her to the game in time, but if not...I am large and in charge. So our heads are spinning.

And then came Last Night...

Last night was our "End of the Year Celebration" at work. It was time to dust off the old party shoes and go out for the evening. It has been our first date night since moving here. Instead opting to stay home and play a game together. It never mattered where we were...as long as we were together. In a semi formal evening we arrived in the Riverwalk in style. We were treated to a delicious turkey dinner with all the fixings and a dessert guaranteed to make you gain 5 pounds just looking at it. And then the festivities began.

Hubby finally got a first hand look at the Marriott way. After several items being given away, including HD video cameras, cameras, xbox 360's, several Ipod touches, a Wii and even a 32inch flatscreen HDTV. I didn't win anything, but that's all right. I brought home a beautiful glass cake tray (an exact copy of the one I gave up at the garage sales prior to our move) last week from a different contest. A video presentation had begun by going over the major economic crisis that had hit the US and how people everywhere were losing their jobs and homes. My friends and co-workers each offered a hand of support knowing I had just lived through this experience. And then it was onto our celebration pictures which brought laughter and happiness. Afterwards we danced. We danced and danced and danced. My party shoes had officially become dancing shoes as I left the worries and stress I'd dealt with behind. As the evening came to a close we snuck out silently as we walked outside.

The beauty of winters in San Antonio...you don't always need a jacket. As we came outside the hotel an idea popped into my head. It was time to walk. We wound our way down the stairs to walk along the Riverwalk. We'd never been there before and it was decorated to the hilt. It was a beautiful, glorious, incredible night...

And for one moment...

One moment...all was well in the world.

Dear Father...

2009-12-13T18:43:00.000-08:00

Dear Father...

Today I watched, chained to my desk for work, as my family each kissed me good-bye on their way to church. My heart was so full for gratitude for all that you have done for us. So, here are my thanks:

Thank you for allowing me to have three children in three years.
-Though I cried the day I found out I was expecting my third in three years and struggled with depression during those early years to the point where I've blocked out most of my children's toddler years. I didn't have the knowledge you had of the future. You were right. During this latest trial they shouldered the worry, the pain and stress like champions. They refuse to whine about our lot in life and never ask for anything they don't need. They sing happily and hold strong to the gospel and have become and example of pillars of strength for me. I feel so blessed to be their mother.

Thank you for allowing me the blessing of losing everything.
-Yes, I did day a blessing. You've given me what my heart desired, what I wished for as a child. While other little girls dreamed of doctors or lawyers I chose a man who would love me with all his heart and be loyal and my best friend. I prayed for a man to take care of me and protect me and accept me for the crazy person I've always been. With my husband you've guided me to I can survive anything. Losing everything, it gave me the opportunity to see what was truly important. It is just stuff, the only thing important to me...was my family and friends.

Thank you for the blessing of friends.
-During the easy times in our lives we go out and have a great time with friends, but when the hard times hit and you are no longer the rock you normally are it is when friends count the most. To have a friend who would call because the message you left didn't sound right. To have friends who threw an absolutely beautiful going away party forgoeing the larger parties and keeping it small to ease my anxieties about being the center of attention.

And Most Especially....Thank You for the blessing of my Family.
To my family who helped calm me during my times of stress. To those who helped tear down walls and remove nails in planks of over 3500 feet of planks. To those who took out for a final going away dinner. Those who supported me during my garage sales. Those who offered shelter if we couldn't move fast enough. Those who gave my children candy for the drive halfway across the nation and gave me earplugs and aspirin to take care of my needs. It was truly a laugh I needed.

And the most important thing I am thankful for is you.

It is your eyes I've learned to trust,
Your hand I've learned to hold,
Your shoulder I leaned on,
Your legs to carry me when I couldn't even carry myself,
Your eyes which cried for me when I could muster no more tears
And your heart, for a Father to allow me to learn these lessons and struggle
I know you love me and my family.

Love,
Tammy

An Odd Feeling...

2009-12-08T19:45:00.001-08:00

I was working...simply doing my job in the land of the Pod People. Pod People you may ask? A friend thought we were a myth and that we did not exist. I'm here to tell you we do. Pod People work in small desks lining the floor of our office with half cubicle walls surrounding us. This day was a special day. I was escaping the world of the Pod People and moving away to a far away land. Truly it was less than 14 miles as the crow flies, but if you were to take buses to get from one point to another it truly became an epic trek home. This trek was much different. I was going almost for good. I say almost because I will go back occassionally.

I received a ride home, as we discussed earlier, and set up my computer. Unfortunately, the modem decided it had no reason to work. I spent 7 hours trying to get that dumb modem to work. So the next morning I ran over to our cable supplier and traded in the modem for one that works. Once I made it home and plugged it in I loaded up the modem drivers and was prepared to spend a mere two hours, on my day off, to hook up my system.

Four....Hours...Later

Our installation was FINALLY complete.

And then it happened:

CRASH!!!!!!!!

No, not the car. It was my computer system going down. Are you kidding me? I hauled the tower back to work...on my second day off to get serviced and fixed. Luckily, I was able to pick it up later that day....Our Techie Matt ROCKS!!!!

And then the next day it happened. I rolled out of bed 30 minutes before I was due to work and took and shower...slipped into a pair of comfy sweats. It is the principal of the whole thing, you know.

I worked all day and found that working at home was a different experience. I no longer had the sounds fo working reservationists next to me sitting under the watchful eye of our dear sweet manager....I really do adore this woman.

Now in the morning I drop the kids off at school and come home and get ready to work. When I am done for the day....I simply unplug and walk away from my desk. I am so thankful to be home and look back at the month of training, month of night shifts, moving to the Resort Desk and now coming home. I see the hand of the good Lord in my life. I see how he has guided me at work and in my family's lives. There is much laughter here at home now and smiles from wall to wall. And thanks go to all of your kind thoughts and wishes.

So... to add laughter to your day, please share some Christmas Cheer and click here

Another Use For Duct Tape

2009-12-02T19:21:00.000-08:00

It was a crazy end to the day. I received my computer to start working from home. Unfortunately, I was dependent on a ride to bring my gear home. There were mix-ups and it was solved. I had to wait a little longer, but it didn't matter. I appreciated my dear friend coming to pick me up. We tease each other incessantly, it's a brother/sister thing. It's the norm, but I had to threaten to tape his mouth shut in front of his three sons this evening.

A co-worker was helping me load the computer gear and he introduced him self saying:

"Hi! I'm the poor schmuck she said 'No' to when I asked her to go out with me in high school."

Lesson learned: Always carry a spare bit of duct tape...you never know when you'll need it!!!

Different

2009-12-01T04:08:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving this year was less traditional than I thought. With being away from family and friends we really wanted this first real celebrated holiday to be something special and spend time with the kids. Oh it was special...that's for sure.

Thanksgiving started like any other home. I got up early to stuff and dress the turkey making sure it was ready for the oven.

Then I left.

Yup! Just drove away!!! I was actually scheduled to work. Yay me!!! To be honest though, it wasn't as bad as you would think. I was scheduled for a 6 hour shift PLUS I was paid for the day off before Thanksgiving...Yes my friends, I was paid to bake pies and rolls. I suffered...I really did!!!

The kids and hubby put the turkey in at the time I instructed. However, as I sat there at work getting ready to start the big boss dropped on by to talk and told me if I wanted I could go home....

Whoosh!!!!

I was out the door before my time was set to start.

Happy Thanksgiving to me!!!

I came home and finished all of the cooking. Our friend and his new girlfriend and her kids came over. What fun to meet some new people. his girlfriend and I hit it off instantly. Dinner was served right away and we were getting to know each other. After cooking all day I was kicking back with my new friend and enjoying laughter and such. Hubby was in the kitchen "de-meating" the turkey. It is his job after to make sure the bird is picked clean. Our friend Bobby was in the kitchen as well playing with his new Iphone and my Ipod dock. He started playing music back from our teenage years and us girls began laughing as the boys literally sang their rendition of "Every Rose Has Its Thorn," an 80's classic. To top it off Hubby began playing air guitar with a turkey bone.

No, this was most definitely not your grandmother's thanksgiving.

I was thankful for friends that night. Near or far. New or old.

However, what I am most thankful for is the laughter. I mean the type that eminates from deep in your belly and you can't help but let it all out. If this is the way our holidays are going to be...bring them on!!!!

I hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving and are looking forward to the rest of the holiday season!!!

And Then There Were Screams...

2009-11-16T04:42:00.001-08:00

My weeks are drifting close together and I can hardly keep my mind straight. There's so much to think about and do. Keep apartment clean, drop kid off at seminary, get kids to school, get to work, grocery shopping...

WHEN WILL IT ALL SLOW DOWN?!?!!?!

Soon

Hu-What?!

Soon

How soon is Soon?

I came home completely exhauted from running one errrand to another all day with only one more to go...picking up my hubby from work. My eyes were having a hard time staying open and I still had to check my e-mail from work. Yes, I check it on my days off. If I don't then I have, no kidding, 50 e-mails after 2 days off. It's easier to check once a day.

Inside my inbox was a strange little message:

"You've Been Approved"

Fabulous! I've been approved. It's always good to be approved....for what?!

I'd received my approval to be a home agent. As soon as I an get my dedicated line set up then I will be available to pick up my computer system, webcam, monitor and clean out my locker because I'm coming home. Molly was excited. Tears nearly came to her eyes as we both screamed. Poor neighbors...I'm sure their little Chihuahuas were frightened. Corinna and Bryan were thrilled to. I've got no clue how long it will take me to transition home, but to the irritation of the rest of my training group....I'm going home.

Yes, some of y fellow trainees were put off that I was allowed to go home because they can't. Since I am on the Resort Desk I will stay with the same manager while they have to wait for an "At Home Manager" to become available. They are packed and are planning on hiring a new manager...next year. So they are a bit irritated that I not only got to the Resort Desk ahead of them, but I am going home. I count it a blessing that goes with paying tithing and lots of prayers and fasting.

Soon, I will say good-bye to my sore feet for walking nearly 2 miles to make it to my weekend bus stops. I will say good-bye to riding the bus with strangers that remind me why it is good NOT to take drugs and the ones who desperately need a few lessons in using deodorant. Nope...not kidding! I will say hello to plugging into my own little world and taking care of my customers from the comforts of my own home. I need to make some work pajamas now so I can simply be comfortable the whole time.

I'm sorry.....

2009-11-10T16:14:00.000-08:00

Dear Bolg,
I feel like I've neglected you...and I'm sorry. You see, there was this crazy thing called life that happens.

At some points you have to work hard just to run to spend 2 hours on three busses with strangers, some of them needing a good dose of Anti-persperant and others who need a good lesson in manners.

I must add however, Texans are a very polite culture compared to those who live in other places. At the bus stop when the bus arrives, then men always let the women board first. If an elderly person or woman boards they for sure move from their seat to offer it to another...which is greatly appreciated for those of us who have foot issues. Anyway, the etiquette I am talking about is cell phone etiquette. No, I don't care that a person may need to make a phone call or attend to a matter that jsut cannot wait. However, to the point of seeming rude. I utterly detest being held hostage in your conversation...Yes, the conversation you had with at least 4 different people during the 30 minutes I was sitting in front of you. It was the same conversation you had when you spoke so loud I could barely hear the music pumping through the headphones of my Ipod that I had set fairly loud in order to keep your conversation private. I could never believe that ACDC's Back In Black would fail to block out another sound when turned up loud enough. You, Ma'am have indeed proven me wrong. Yet I digress.

After two hours of riding and trying very hard to control my motion sickness reflexes...as a few of the bus drivers drive as if they graduated from the "Mr' Toad's Wild Ride" Bus driver's school...I march up the quiet street leading to my complex. I pause slightly to wave at a few of the residents sitting outside and enjoying the twilight sky. After climbing what feels like Everest to my knees I turn the corner and finish the last three flights of stairs to my haven only to be mobbed by three overly adorable children.

I left work at 5:15pm

It is now nearly7:15pm. I am hungry, my darling children have made their own meals and are satisfied, but yet all three have a great desire to talk eagerly of the goings on in their days. I hear from my son about how tired he is of the girls here telling him he has "pretty eyes." I listen to my youngest recount the latest gossip and news from the middle school she looks at as a maximum security prison. I listen also to my oldest recounting the funny things that happened as well as catching up on the "girl talk" we love so much.

It is now nearly 9pm. I eat my dinner which now is the equivelent of two scrambled eggs as I don't have enough energy to make a real meal at that time.

I send the kiddies off to bed...of course one tends to put herself to bed early due to early morning seminary. All is quiet and it strikes my mind.

'I need to update my blog'

But my body doesn't move. Instead, I find myself moving towards the bathroom starting a long hot bath and throwing in a handful of the most delicious bath salts I've ever owned...For that I owe Ryan and Eddy!!!

Now now girls...don't get too excited. They work for the Vail Resort and Spa run by Marriott and brought me some of the precious Vanilla Ginger bath salts sold in their incredible spa to encourage me to be extra nice to the guests when they call wanting to make reservations. Ryan also begged me to come up for three days this winter in which he said he'd comp me three nights and arrange for my lift ticket and rental gear so we could race down the mountain...my knees ache already. I emerge from the bath and jump in my jammies and look at the clock.

10 pm....I guess I'll have to try to update my blog tomorrow.

I hope!!!!