This New Chapter

2009-05-29T13:23:00.002-05:00

What has been going on? Here are a few pictures from Lee and Emily's wedding, and I will post more and type more in a few days when I have a little more time! Hope everyone has had a good start to their summer...........we sure have.

WHAT?? It's almost the end of April? Where did March go?

2009-04-25T15:29:00.002-05:00

For heaven's sake, what have I been doing, sleeping? My last post was March 1 and here it is April 25. One month to the big wedding. 4 dresses complete, 5th one is in the process of some alterations and then final seaming. Have 2 candle lighter dresses cut out and ready to stitch up. I'd say things are coming along nicely. Lee and Emily have decided on the place they're going to live, RSVP's are rolling in and the little preparations are starting. I have to make and freeze 8 - 10 1 gallon containers of punch mix, the flowers are to be delivered here the day before the wedding so we can wrap them up, the candle - albraes and candles are lined up.......on and on the list goes.

Lawrence is working and I went out to mow. Only got stuck 3 times!! Our yard is staying wet thanks to a neighbor who has decided to empty their sump pump in the direction of our yard.....it's a constant stream! Will be needing to discuss this with them.....ugg.

Lauren, Lee, Emily and Whitney will be wrapping up their college classes in the next couple of weeks. Megan's graduation is coming up and she won't have to share it with anyone like Lauren and Whit had to last year!

My brother, Jody, turns the big 40 this coming Wednesday, but is so busy with his 5 kiddos that we'll just have to call him on the phone and sing Happy Birthday!

Time is doing a great job of staying on beat and marching on. I sure look forward to the day that time is no more and I get to spend eternity with the author of Light!

The sign is gone!!

2009-03-01T20:03:00.002-06:00

Ok, folks, here is the scoop! 8 months with hardly a bite is answer enough for us. Much as we were (sort of) looking forward to packing up and moving in closer to the city, we're now glad to not have to do just that. We figure God has a reason to keep us in good ol' Lathrop, so we're not gonna fight it anymore. He may move us somewhere else later on down the road, but for now, we get to continue to set on the front porch swing and contemplate the next house project we need to complete. There are still several things we'd like to do with our property and hope the economy will eventually allow that to happen.

So the sign is gone, I'm running for school board again and Lawrence will continue to drive back and forth each day to the city. At least gas prices have come down, and we're still in the middle between extended family homes and shopping. Go mules!

Time marches on....

2009-02-28T23:23:00.003-06:00

Today is the last day of February and I thought we celebrated the new year of 2009 just yesterday? Time marches on, whether we join in or choose to ignore it, it continues. This last week of February has been a whirlwind. Two nights were spent assisting Lee and Emily with registering for wedding/new life together....stuff. I missed several meetings.....the church related school board, my county leadership, youth and learning to knit socks! Yes, I was supposed to go to a knitting class today, but 6" of snow kept me home. But being with my family was well worth missing the meetings.....I'll always have meetings, but won't get to experience the first born's, first (and hopefully only) wedding and all that goes with it.

I got to spend 2 delightful days with my dad. He's putting up a couple of new ceiling fans for me, and finding ways to make a puzzle out of the process, thus giving us additional time to be together and let me fix him lunch! HA.......gotchya dad.

I've continued working out with my good friend Carrie.........she's making me sick, though.......losing weight much quicker than I! Lawrence and I got to spend Friday evening playing American Idol with she and Jeff.....Jaxson and Aaron were spectators as well......ate some of the best dirt cake I've ever had! HA

Lee and Emily showed up late on Friday evening, spending the biggest part of today with us. They had to do "parent interviews" with us for their premarital class. That was interesting. I also was able to complete bridesmaid dress #2 and started cutting out #3. Will be making 2 flower girls dresses and 2 candle lighter dresses after that. This being "retired" sure keeps you busy.

On a down note this week, one of my brothers was laid off and that just leaves a pit in my stomach. We're all hitting our knees hard for he and his family, as they are. He's already hit the pavement looking for work, and I have no doubt God will bless that, it's just the unknown that is a little scary right now. We would all covet your prayers in this matter, as we all continue to pray for the MANY people that have found themselves in the same situation. We know God is sovereign and cares for his children, so we're just praying and waiting to see what He has in store.

Well, would you consider March coming in as a Lion or a Lamb?.......

The 1st of 5, and other stuff.

2009-02-21T21:55:00.005-06:00

Yes, you read correctly.....5 dresses.....the groom and bride to be thought it would be fun to add a 5th person! But no worries, my future daughter-n-law did ask me FIRST. Of course, I said yes, what's a "favorite", "world's best", "most-loved" mother-n-law candidate to do?

I can not believe how much I am enjoying making these dresses! I'm in the middle of dress 2 and going to get measurements for dress 3 next week. The pattern is a pretty simple one, but is essentially 2 dresses in one, as they are completely lined. The material is nice to work with and I'm just plain having fun.

I'm also staying very busy with many other things. I'm currently in a county leadership class that meets weekly and am sitting on two school boards. I've been to Jefferson City twice in the past month to meet with my representatives and was able to hear Governor Nixon speak at my most recent visit. I hate politics, by am finding myself immersed in them lately.

The house will be coming off the market, soon, and I'm okay with that. Between the wedding and not knowing where we want to go........we think we'll just stay put. I've come to realize, I won't feel like anywhere is home, til I get to my eternal home.

Wedding plans for Lee and Emily are coming along........spring break will be busy with invitations, showers, smaller details being ironed out. They do have their cake lady, photographer, church, reception, colors, attendants, tuxes.......and a few other things.....lined up. Now it's the smaller details that we start working on. Not to mention the fact that the wedding will be in Lathrop, so we're rounding up rooms for various wedding party members that are from out of town............see, it's not so bad to live in a town where you know a lot of people, is it? :)

There have been a few family birthdays and anniversaries since I last posted. Jody and Nicki celebrated their 13th anniversary in January, along with 3 birthdays. This month Rance and Brylie celebrated their 7th anniversary and we've had 2 birthdays. All these kids just keep getting older and older.......how can that be? I'm not getting any older!

The workouts are going well, so well, I've decided to buy myself a wii-weeeeeee! What a great little device. I would have scoffed had my kids wanted one, but here I am, an empty nester and buying myself a game machine! I don't even have the excuse of grandkids... Thank you, Lord......I need to get this wedding over before I start thinking about that.

Sewing seams and working out!

2009-02-02T22:01:00.002-06:00

A few weeks ago I read my friend's status on facebook and decided to be bold and see if she wanted a workout partner! She'd been doing 30 minutes on her elliptical and then 30 minutes on her wii fit. She jumped at the chance to have an accountability partner and it was a partnership born! I want to lose a little (a lot, actually) weight and tone up before Lee & Emily's wedding. So far, I've found my muscles are pretty much in retirement and my weight is stubborn! But the workouts are providing me with new found confidence, stronger muscles and bones (I need that since I'm on hormone replacement) and the energy to complete my new tasks.

What are those new tasks? I'm glad you asked. After much him-hawing and wavering.....Emily FINALLY decided on the bridesmaid dresses that she wanted. Of course, they aren't anything you can just walk in and buy off of the rack.....oh no......but they did happen to be available in a vogue pattern........found at Joann's.......requiring a seamstress...........That's where I come in! Yes, folks, I have dusted off the old sewing machine from the kid's younger days, when they would wear home-made clothes; and gone to task. 4, count them, FOUR......floor length, black formal gowns. Of course, no 1 girl is the same size, so many fittings to come. I've actually broke down and ordered an adjustable dress form for this big undertaking, and believe I will be glad I did so.

Now if she would just decide on her additional accent color, and the dresses for the candle lighters and flower girls...uh oh....I bet I'll be making them as well. This wedding is fun stuff, but I will definitely be ready for a rest once it's over.

On a side note, the house showed yesterday. Showed well, but wasn't quite what the single mother of 2 wanted..........thank heaven..........we don't have time to move right now, I've got dresses to make!

We may not have moved, but our life is certainly changing!

2009-01-05T21:54:00.002-06:00

I have spent the last 20 plus years praying many things for my children. Their health, their tests, their choice of friends, their future spouses, etc. etc. The minute I met Emily, I felt I knew her! After some time, I realized she could very well be the "future spouse" I had been praying for Lee. This past week, Lee confirmed it and proposed!! They're getting married on May 23 of this year!! I'm so excited, anxious, concerned, happy, wondering, praying, hoping and delirious! I'm going to have to kick my exercise/dieting into high gear!! Em has already made an appointment for wedding dress shopping, which I've been invited to tag along, as well as her mother, of course. Tracy (her mother) and I are already discussing things like cakes, photographer, etc. I just can't believe they're old enough to be doing this. Of course, Lawrence was 21 and I just 19, but we knew "everything" at that age. Guess things haven't really changed that much, huh....? We welcome Emily with open arms, as we know the rest of our family does.

Nope, no bites on the house.......but things are certainly changing.

A new tradition is started.

2008-12-23T16:09:00.003-06:00

In lieu of expensive gifts, the women of our families decided to start a new tradition. We emptied our jewelry boxes of what we no longer wear and set up an exchange. Everyone got into the act, although one sister didn't play fair! She's never played fair!!! Lisa brought jewelry for us to "look" at, but she wears it all, so only gave away a couple of pieces. It was so much fun looking at and trying on all the different things. I got to bring home 3 new pieces to wear and was thrilled to give all but 3 pieces of my unused jewelry away.

Why don't we do this more often?

2008-12-12T15:04:00.002-06:00

This beautiful group of girl's are some of my buddies from highschool, class of '84! Melissa, fourth from the left, was thoughtful enough to set a date and send out messages for the gathering. I used to do that, but have dropped off through the years. We met for a holiday luncheon on 12/5 and had such a wonderful time catching up. Hannah Prince (Warnick), Mitzi Hensen (Todd), Shannon Bullock (Kelly), Melissa LaGue (LaFollette), Barb Kimmel (Briggs), Sandy Eddy (Spaeth) and myself. We hope to make this an annual event and see more come next time.

A very special day.

2008-12-12T14:56:00.004-06:00

This young lady will always have a special little piece of my heart! Her name is Breelyn Kaye. Her middle name is the same as mine and was also my mother's middle name (for whom it was given). She is Janin and Amie's third child, born on 12/2 at 10:27 pm. I love all of my nieces and nephews equally, but this makes the second one that will hold very special memories for me. The first was Cy, born 1/16/06. He was my birthday present as that is also my birthday. Breelyn was quite a gift as well, as I had the privilege of attending her birth and seeing her come into this world. She's very beautiful and quite petite. Her big brothers are SO proud! Getting to see Breelyn born also reminded me of my precious mother, as she had been in attendance at Lauren's birth. Her comment: "It's very different seeing it from this end", has a lot of truth to it! :)

Giving thanks for many things.

2008-12-12T14:39:00.003-06:00

Well, it was a busy Thanksgiving day on the Carlson side of the family! This great photo was taken at Jody's where we gathered for the day. This is the 'grandchild' generation photo and as you can probably tell, we're a productive clan. Of course, I started much earlier than the 3 boys....thank heaven! There are a total of 11 in this picture, but as of the 2nd of December, there are now 12. FUN is the best word to describe these get togethers, and CHAOS is another one. The agape love that my brother's and I have within our immediate and extended families is a blessing that can only be surpassed by the Agape Love our Heavenly Father bestows upon us. We are so thankful for our families, our health, our friends, our jobs, our warm homes and all of the other little things we tend to take for granted. We do, however, look forward to the day that the adults can actually sit down and have a complete conversation................

Too Big to Rock!

2008-11-24T22:39:00.005-06:00

I'm sitting here at 10:45 pm watching my son sleep!

He had sinus surgery today due to polyps and a deviated septum. The doctor stated his nasal passages are very narrow and this should make breathing, eating, running and all other activities a little easier for Lee. The recovery for this surgery is 24 hours for the anesthetics to wear off, a week before the nasal splints come out and 2-3 months before resuming sports. Currently, Lee has to wear a gauze dressing directly below his nose and taped to his cheeks, this is for drainage. That should slow down and stop by this time tomorrow night - quite attractive!!

He hasn't had much to eat or drink, so kind of weak, but sleeping well due to the great pain medication that Dr. Beurlein is so good to order.

As I sit here and watch him, I find myself thinking about the time he was hospitalized for asthmatic pneumonia. He was only 2 and miserable. He had to be in the hospital for 5 very long days and Lawrence and I would trade off the night shifts. I was very thankful that Lawrence was on duty the night Lee pulled his IV out! Poor daddy had to practically lay on him while the nurses re-inserted the needle and tubing. Lawrence still remembers Lee looking at him like "How could you do this to me, you're my dad!" The nurses ended up giving Lee's stuffed Big Bird an "IV" as well, gauzed and taped up just like Lee's. I have pictures of a very unhappy Lee holding his Big Bird and sitting in a huge hospital bed. My heart goes out to parents that have children suffering much worse health issues, what a difficult thing to experience as a parent. Again, I digress - all of sudden my 2 year old, 30 pound child has turned into a 20 year old, 6'4", 180 pound man with a full beard and mustache!

Time is not discriminatory, nor is it always kind, as it spins out of control way too often. So instead of holding my 'freshly operated on' son in my arms and rocking him to sleep, I must be satisfied with seeing him resting peacefully on the couch and giving him the occasional drink of water. Thank you God, though, that his health will quickly return. And Lord, please be with the parents that may never see their child in good health, give them strength and perseverance.

How can it be?

2008-11-19T17:57:00.002-06:00

How is it that the last post was on November 9 and here it is already the 19th? I don't even feel like 2 days has passed and it's been over a week.

Many little things have happened since the 9th, but nothing major. No new baby girl, yet. Won't be too much longer, though.......less than 2 weeks, most likely.

I had the joy of spending 2 days with Emily and continuing to get to know her better. We went to Jamesport, along with Amie and the boys. It was a quick trip, but fun. She and I stayed up until 1 and 2 am talking both nights.

I recently gave my 8 year old niece a child's sewing machine for her birthday and need to schedule time to get her started on her first project.

Lee spent several days in Texas at a LEAD NOW conference and came back on fire for God. That's always a great experience.

Lauren has changed her major to Psychology and is now fighting to get into the classes she needs.

Thanksgiving is next week and I'm looking forward to spending time with my family, especially my kids. Have a great rest of the week.

Cozy pajamas.

2008-11-09T14:28:00.002-06:00

Remember the days when we could wear footed, zip-up, soft and cozy pajamas? I know they do make these for adults, but there's just something weird about that! Really, they're meant for kiddos! I think it's because the body shape is better fit to them at a young age.....before the curves and rolls start! But I digress.........This is Aden and Deegan as many of you know, and Lawrence and I got to spend the last 2 evenings with them. They are 2 of our many blessings in the way of nieces/nephews/family. They have a little sister on the way in a few weeks and will spend more time with us then. We thought it would be nice to start getting them acclimated to our presence a little early, besides letting Mommy and Daddy have a night out and some down time.

They love trains. So we took them for supper at Fritz's, then to Union Station for a walk about. The station is actually doing a model train expo right now, so was a perfect visit. Fritz's is where your food is brought via electric train drop-off and the boys, of course, got engineer hats to wear. We saw the mayor's Christmas tree, lying on its side. Lawrence and another crane operator are often the ones that run the crane, that sits the tree up. So the boys also got to see the crane waiting to lift the tree (it was too windy the day Lawrence was to do it, so the crane was sitting overnight to attempt it the next day.)

That was the first night; the second night we stayed in and played blocks, trucks, movies, books, ate supper and gave baths. Seeing the world through 2 and 4 year old eyes is amazing and something we don't do often, anymore. It's great to be a part of, but I thank God we get to kiss them goodnight and go home for a rest! No wonder they call them "rest homes" for those beyond child-rearing years.

Happy Birthday Lauren Diane Murdock!

2008-11-05T18:02:00.006-06:00

From sleeping anywhere she landed to dancing into our hearts.....our little girl turns 19 this Thursday, November 6 and it's the first time we won't be with her to celebrate! You have always been such a lovely young woman, and we are so proud to call you daughter. Your beauty comes from within, may it always be so. Happy Birthday Sweetheart!

God's Word.

2008-11-05T08:11:00.005-06:00

Every day I get the Encouraging Word from KLove's website and usually not until later in the day. However, today I got it early and boy am I glad! My Spirit is grieving the election.....I truly believe the winds of time and change are upon us, leading our country into deprivation. America's first love has been lost and God's hand will no longer bless us. Daniel 2:21 states that He (God) changes the times and seasons...............He sets up Kings and deposes kings. I KNOW God is in control of my destination, but our nation will surely suffer due to it's corporate decisions. Anyway......this was today's word and I was stunned, to say the least:

But the Lord said to Samuel, "Don't judge by his appearance or height, for I have rejected him. The Lord doesn't see things the way you see them. People judge by outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart." 1 Samuel 16:7 NLT

I pray your heart is something you want God to see..........

Good times, good friends and hats off to you!

2008-11-04T21:26:00.004-06:00

Good times! I ran across Mitz and she informed me I needed to update my blog! She could only look at Lee for so long.... :) So I thought I would congratulate the re-elected Sheriff of Clinton County.....our long time friend Porter Hensen. Thanks for all that you do! Yes, this photo of Scott Shrewsbury, Mitzi and Porter Hensen was taken just a few days ago......well....maybe not!

Happy day...........

2008-10-25T00:26:00.009-05:00

Today marks the 1 year anniversary of Lee & Emily being "exclusive", boyfriend/girlfriend, "in a relationship"..........can't keep up with the current jargon! Anyway, they've been "dating", as I would say, for a year now and were able to celebrate not only that fact, but the fact that Lee received his acceptance letter into the nursing program, today!

Whew........that was a lot of words in a short space.

So, happy anniversary, of sorts..........and what a relief to know you may continue in college and not have to wait out a semester. You'll make a great nurse! Your dad and I are very proud, just don't try to practice your needle sticks on us!

Movies.....

2008-10-21T23:01:00.003-05:00

Lawrence and I don't generally watch movies. We did when the kids were younger, because we had an excuse for the G & PG movies then! HAHA Spending the time and money on movies doesn't appeal to us, but we took the advice of many and went to see this one. There are no words to describe adequately the impact we believe this movie could have on our nation and the world. Please take the time and spend the money............it's more than worth it. At least check out the website......www.fireproofthemovie.com and www.fireproofmymarriage.com.

Thank you Lord, for our day of rest.

2008-10-19T14:33:00.003-05:00

Busy........there are many interpretations for that word! I had the privilege of helping all 3 of my brothers/sisters this past week by spending anywhere from 2-4 hours with their children! Tuesday I got to help with Creed and newest Carlson, Roman. Daddy had some meetings he had to keep, so I went and helped Brylie out for a few hours. Daddy had the week off for the most part, so Mommy had his help except for then. We got to go to Babies R Us and pick up a few things. It is absolutely amazing what is available to new mothers these days. Half of which I'd never even heard of.......I'm sure my mother said the same when Lee & Lauren came along.

On Wednesday, I got to go to Janin & Amie's to watch Aden & Deegan while mommy went grocery shopping after they'd been gone for a week to California. I made supper as well, so I could go to church from there instead of back to Lathrop, then back to Holt after having been to Smithville.

Thursday I went to Jody & Nicki's to watch Cy and Cade while mommy did some "alone" shopping and picked Caleb up for a lunch date after preschool. Cy, the almost 2 year old, and I made chocolate chip cookies!! Why is it I had such a phobia with my own kids making a mess, but it doesn't bother me in the least with my nieces/nephews? I think we call that maturity!

Lauren came in late on Wednesday for fall break and joined me in St. Joe on Thursday. Later in the day we met up with Lee and did supper. It was so nice to have them both together with me at the same time! That doesn't happen very often anymore.

Needless to say, by Friday morning I was exhausted. Working with young people makes you have to be more alert, think quick on your feet and place your body in funny positions! Down on the floor to play, up in the arms to hold, pacing and patting a back to calm, reaching above the fridge to retrieve the thrown ball.......etc....etc....

So did I rest? No, I left Friday evening for our women's retreat, to stay up late talking and laughing, to sleep on a bunk bed!?! and up early for Saturday's activities. I was a speaker for one of the breakout sessions, so I couldn't very well miss it, could I? From there I headed to pick up youth and take them to the corn maze in Liberty. Lawrence and Lauren joined me for that and it was fun. Another late night.

But today..........the day of rest...........morning spent in worship and with God.............and NOW, yes NOW............I'm going to take a blessed nap!

The little blessings keep coming!

2008-10-10T21:55:00.002-05:00

This is Roman Lucas Carlson born today (10/10) at 3:22 pm to Rance & Brylie Carlson and big brother Creed! His first 5 hours of life were spent in NICU because his oxygen was low and he didn't want to breath deeply, but he is now at mama's breast and wrapping everyone around his finger! Praise God for another healthy nephew and Brylie's quick and healthy delivery.

Getting on with it........

2008-10-05T10:32:00.002-05:00

A Big thank you to our fellow believers that lifted us in prayer. The issue is finally settled and done with. What a big relief. Being allowed to move on is such a blessing. Now I prepare for the next nephew, coming sometime this month!

By the way, we DO still have the house on the market, just dropped the price and are still hoping to move out of Lathrop, closer to the city, somewhere. Time will tell.

A small thorn left to fester.

2008-10-02T15:22:00.003-05:00

Have you ever had a thorn issue in your life? My brothers and I have had one for about 2 1/2 years now, it started one month after our mom passed away and we have done our best to put healing balm on it, but to no avail. Besides the fact we were unable to adequately grieve her passing, we have dealt with a situation that simply dumbfounds us. Tomorrow will involve yet another round of legalities, mediation and strong emotions. God has certainly carried us through much of it, but the human side of us still fights God's purpose for all of this, questioning, wondering, not understanding. If I could share the details, it would be mind-boggling and you would wonder why we haven't killed someone yet!! But all I'm going to do is ask that you lift us up in prayer tomorrow, October 3rd, anytime we may cross your mind, as it will be an all day event.......................and no, that's not all of the family, it's about half of my immediate family; in the above picture.

Autumn's splendor.......

2008-10-01T16:34:00.004-05:00

This is my favorite time of year.....the nights are cool, the days are pleasant with north winds bringing us dryer air. The colors that God paints on his canvas this time of year are amazing! I just wish we didn't lose our daylight so quickly! Enjoy your fall days and don't forget God is in control of all things.......you just have to quit fighting him, and the ride will be much more pleasant; because you get to look at the scenery while He drives!

Happy Birthday Honey!

2008-09-26T09:44:00.003-05:00

Hard to believe that 45 years ago today this handsome man came into the world! He's such a blessing to so many people, I'm especially blessed to share the day and my life with him. I pray many more happy years for you, dear!

5 years and almost 3 kids!

2008-09-21T12:48:00.003-05:00

How does one celebrate their 5th anniversary? Many would say with candlelight dinner, a night on the town, dancing............BLESS my sister-n-law Amie!! She got to spend hers with Lawrence, me, Rance, Brylie, Lauren, Creed and her two sons: Aden & Deegan!! We all went to R&B's for dinner, cards and just hanging out. She did get an ice cream cake for the occasion, though!! Amie is due in 2 months with a little girl, so I'd say that 5 years of marriage has been quite productive for the Janin Carlson's. I love you guys and HAPPY ANNIVERSARY. :)

Nature and Nurturing......

2008-09-18T21:05:00.006-05:00

Lawrence and I just got back from a short vacation to Nebraska City, NE. We stayed at the Lied (pronounced leed) Lodge on Arbor Day Farms, and a B&B in town. The farms included a 50 foot tall tree house and many walking trails through the tree farm and the orchards. It was such a relaxing and fun trip. We toured the Arbor Lodge where Mr. & Mrs. Morton started the tree plantings, orchards and various other gardens. The weather was great! We sampled apple and cherry wines and took naps! It was truly a vacation of relaxation and enjoyment. Everyone should take a couple of days for this sort of thing, it does a body and soul good. In the photo of the thistle bloom, I managed to catch a bee in flight/landing, and didn't even realize he was touching down! The Blue Jays and various other birds were abundant, and we even found a couple of squirrels in the tree house!

SO MUCH FUN!!

2008-09-13T13:59:00.003-05:00

Don't you just love those days where you have no specific deadlines or responsibilities? Friday was close to one of those days for me! I left home around 8:30, headed to St. Joe to meet up with Lee. We took off for KC/Zona Rosa area around 9:30 to do some quick shopping for him. He had to be back in Joe town by 1pm for class. After 2 pair of dress shoes, underwear, t-shirts, jeans, jacket and polo shirts; we were quickly headed back to St. Joe. Lee stated it felt like Christmas, as he hadn't had new clothes or shoes since then. Of course, he could have bought a few things on his own, but is scraping to save for future plans! So the continued support of our children is alive and well! :) He was more than grateful and thankful, and I am blessed to have children that recognize those things and verbalize them. After I dropped him off at his apartment, to quickly grab books and head to class, I headed to the grocery store. I had not been surprised to see he was low on food stock, but the fact is, his pantry had a bottle of cooking oil and a can of dry Gatorade mix!! No wonder he's lost 10 pounds in the past few months, that stuff will go right through you!! HEHE Needless to say, I thought it my motherly duty to fill his pantry. After dropping another few greenbacks, I went back to put the groceries away. At 2:45 I headed to St. Joe Christian to pick up my nieces from school, thought I'd save their mother getting out in the rain with the little ones. So, strategically got a visit in with the Jody Carlson clan. I then went on to meet up with Emily and we went thrift store shopping! What fun, found several items for her and a few for the little ones. Had dinner and coffee, Em bought the 4th year Office series and we headed off to her place. Lee came over after he got off work and we stayed up til about 2am. I pulled a blanket over me and drifted off to sleep. It's been a long time since I went to a slumber party! It was fun, but glad to be back home and will have my next slumber party where I can sleep in a bed! Thanks kiddos, for such a fun day.

GRIEF

2008-09-08T22:42:00.003-05:00

I just found out about the deaths of 3 young men in our surrounding communities this past weekend, and I'm hurting deeply for those families. I only knew of one of the young men, and not very well at that. He was a twin and as a child, attended the same church we did. The family moved and then we left to attend a different church. It matters not whether I knew these kids well, I hurt so much for their families. My children are close to the same age and I believe it would devestate me to lose my kids. I know people endure this every day, but that doesn't make it easy. My prayers and heavy heart go out to these families. I do believe our acquaintance will be with God in eternity........if you are not sure about where your eternity will be spent, you can be. Contact me or any Pastor of your local church to help guide you to that knowledge. If you don't want to speak openly to someone, then grab a bible and read the New Testament books of Matthew, Mark, Luke or John. Romans can give you great insight as well. After that, read the rest! Then call somebody, don't spend the rest of your life (which may be unexpectantly shortened) wondering.

One of my many passions: cross-stitch.

2008-09-03T21:43:00.003-05:00

I have stitched since I was a young teenager and find it to be one of the most relaxing things for me. I have remembered to take pictures of my projects about 1/3 of the time and these are just a few of the samplings. Most of my projects are gifts, though I have kept enough to decorate my home with. The tractor on the left is for my nephew Caleb. He just LOVES John Deere and tractors. I used to be able to keep up with the nieces/nephews and prepare something before their birth. My brothers have gotten much further ahead of me now and so this is about 4 1/2 years overdue! The tractor is currently at the framing (very expensive!) store. They are meant to be heirlooms, so the framing is worth it. I started on my first Christmas stocking tonight. It's for Deegan, he's 2 1/2. Having 3 new babies in one year is not fair, boys! If I were to just make projects for my family, I would say there needs to be at least another 20 done, and I don't like them small. A 10 x 14 usually takes me about 6 months, if I'm not busy with some of my other passions! Let's see, that's only 10 years......hmmmmm..... will probably have grandkids by then....I'd better get busy!! (Yes, the picture in the upper right hand corner is all cross stitches, except for the light blue sky........that's the color of the fabric I stitched on.) (And no, the tractor was not completed in this picture, I still had the outline to do in the hub of the front wheel.)

Lauren's first week of college.

2008-08-29T20:56:00.005-05:00

Trials come and go, but sometimes they stay awhile. On move in day at SEMO, we showed up at 6 am and got a front row parking spot to unload. Lauren had pulled up and I followed to drop off Lee, Emily and Lawrence. I proceeded to continue on to a parking spot further out, this was the required procedure. By the time I got to Lauren's car; Lee, Lawrence and Emily had disappeared with an armload and Lauren was talking to a student helper. Alas, we had not gone to the correct check in site and Lauren needed to proceed there and get her room key, etc.

She left and I waited for the crew to show back up. Upon seeing Lee & Lawrence, I filled them in. To my surprise they stated they had already been in her room and dropped a load of stuff. Evidently the rooms were all open! So we waited, and waited, and waited. By now, the cars and their loads were growing denser. Finally, we see Lauren's car weaving up to get in the long line, to wait for a spot to unload! We finished up and then headed back to the hotel where we had stayed the previous night, and had a free hot breakfast waiting. After eating; Lee, Lawrence and Emily opted for an early nap before check out time. Lauren and I headed back to settle the dust in her room and let me do the mom thing; like make the bed, put clothes in the drawers, arrange the bathroom.................uggg..........mothers!

We all met up later for lunch and then a quick tour for the big brother........he wanted to give his stamp of approval..........I think he was impressed.

With only wet eyes we said our goodbyes and were off for the trip I previously wrote about. By the following Monday I had received a text message from Lauren stating she COULD NOT continue in the Acting class. It would be too involved and she would be snowed under with her other "major" classes of Eng. Lit, Spanish, Psychology and anthropology. The acting/theatre were to be her minor. She had also gotten a parking ticket, overdrawn her checking account and wasn't eating because it all tasted like "school" food! She had dealt with her car radio falling out and roomies that "want to follow me everywhere I go!" And do you know that the college does not provide toilet paper!!! Whoever heard of such a thing? I asked her if she were PMSing? That was not the thing to ask.

So I listened and made suggestions and told her to pray as I was praying for her as well.

Tuesday was not much better. She had gotten another ticket...........she wasn't parking in the right lot! Still wasn't sure what to do about the acting class and had to call a company about some drafts they had made on her checking account. She also had to buy 2 more books, which, as many know, are VERY expensive. Praise the Lord, her first books were covered by a scholarship.

By Wednesday; she finally got the correct parking lot figured out, appealed the first ticket and they voided the second one. I put money in her account, which humiliated, humbled and gratified her. She spoke with her advisor (whom she likes) and got out of acting and is taking sign language. She went to a job fair, and hopes for future income are promising. The roommate and suite mates are acclimating to campus and giving her some breathing room and she has a smile in her voice again. Oh, she also got the radio fixed...........Best Buy's mistake. And she's finally found a couple of decent spots on campus to eat, so her diet does not consist of cereal only, anymore.

Tonight (Friday) she is going out for supper with her suite mates and looking forward to a quiet weekend, has her homework done and thinks college is going to be a good/fun experience! SHEWWWWWWWW.............I thought I might just have to go get her and bring her home! Oh, no, that was just the mommy in me. I'm enjoying seeing those wings stretch and strengthen so that she can make her migrating flight.

Do I cry or dance?

2008-08-27T10:45:00.000-05:00

NO, the house has not sold yet! It may just remain in our possession for a long time, and that's okay with us, we think. We're really not sure what God is doing in that area, but we're not fretting about it. And no, those tents are not where we intend to move to. :)

I have just had a whirlwind week and half. It started on Saturday, August 16. Lauren, Emily (Lee's girlfriend), Amie (my sister-n-law) and I left Lathrop at 5:30 am, headed for Bloomington, MN and the Mall of America. It was Amie's first visit and a last road trip before school started for Em & Lauren. We had so much fun laughing, talking and shopping. We only stayed one night, headed back the next day, but it was well worth it. You can see (barely) the fun we had trying to get in the view of a camera in one of those small picture machines! Those are only meant for one or two mind you, it was quite interesting getting all four of us in there, but we had fun.

The next couple of days were packing and last minute appointments for Lauren before we headed off to Cape Girardeau. On Wednesday, she and I took off in my car and left her dad with her packed car, so that he could drive down after work. Move in was on Thursday and we went for the early bird time of 6 am. It was early, but take heed parents, it was THE smart thing to do. We had plenty of help, plenty of room, plenty of time. As the day got later, we kept thanking ourselves for giving up the sleep, as the lines got longer, the temp. got higher and the patience grew thinner.............as observed from Lauren's already set up room and made bed. Lee and Emily had joined us as well, so that big brother could check things out and give his stamp of approval!! As if that was going to change anything, but we were glad to all be together, knowing it wouldn't be the case for awhile. Leaving Lauren there was very hard, but would have been harder had we not made additional plans for the next few days.

From Cape Girardeau, Lawrence and I with Lee and Emily following, headed to a campground in Lesterville, MO. The name? Bear cat...........I would not recommend it. Very backwoods, lacking in customer service and later found out it has a BIG history with free-thinking/acting/smoking/drugging culture!! Anyway, we pitched our tents, fought the bugs, sweat like crazy and cooked hot dogs. On Friday, we rented canoes (can you believe those are up to $40 now?) and spent about 5 hours on the Black River. Once back, we closed up camp and headed off. Lee & Emily back to St. Joe and Lawrence & I to Arcadia to a B&B to celebrate our 23rd anniversary.

We stayed in a very old (1847) facility. It was a catholic girls boarding school for 100 years amongst other things, such as a hospital during the civil war, a college, a high school and a daycare. This campus is huge with a cathedral, gymnasium, classrooms, etc. The history was quite interesting, but we stayed in the Bishop's room! I had no shower, only a tub - which I hate. There was a chair and couch in the room that must have been original! When you sat down, you went clear to the floor!! No kidding. Lawrence and I had a laugh, ate some great food and enjoyed imagining what life was like there in it's hay day. On Sunday we headed home.
I realized as we headed home that what we had done after leaving Lauren was priceless. To have left her and driven 8 hours home, I would have been bawling the whole way. Instead, we kept ourselves busy and active and it truly helped prepare me for the "empty nest" we came home to. It's wierd and nice; some days I cry, some days I dance!

Lauren's first week has been a little traumatic..........but that's for another blog. Will catch you up later...........you'll need a break after reading all of this!

A Fun Day.

2008-08-14T21:24:00.000-05:00

This little guy is just one of the many precious nephews I have. I got to go play with him today while his mommy went on a business lunch. I knew I'd get at least 2 hours with him and hoped for more. So off I go; a little early so as to acclimate him to my presence! He's got a little brother coming in October, but is thus far the only one getting his parent's attention. You know what that means! He's not too sure about being away from them for any length of time. So I get to sit down and watch a kid's DVD called "Boz" and mommy slips away quietly. He REALLY likes Boz! About 11:30 I get his lunch ready and once Boz says good-bye, we head to the kitchen. He LOVES to dip things.......pretzels in yogurt, fries in ketchup, anything in ketchup, even his fruit in ketchup.........if you can't get him to eat it, just dip it and he'll go for it! His mother had told me that he may lay down 12:30 or 1ish........but had been taking later naps the past few days. She's supposed to be home around 1, so I figure I have another hour of play time after lunch........but no, guess what the cutie did? As soon as lunch was over I realized we needed to change his diaper. Well, he wasn't into that, but we managed and then he starts pointing at a blanket and getting fussy! I finally asked if he wanted to lay down, take a nap? and he said yes! He even helped me turn his little noise maker on, took the blanket and when I lifted him to the crib, he lay down. Can you believe that? Little stinker went right to sleep and didn't wake up until after mommy got home. So, an hour alone........but I stayed until he woke up and got to play with him a little longer. What are these kids coming to? Taking a nap without a fight? Un-heard of.................:) Guess I'll have to come up with another plan to spend more time with him.......maybe send mommy and daddy on a date-nite! Oh, by the way, not one tear I'll have you know.................

My baby is a young woman, but that was just me yesterday!

2008-08-12T00:31:00.000-05:00

I am bemoaning the passing of time. It's truly a blink of the eye and wa-la, you are done with diapers, night-feedings, potty-training, hauling half the house with you everywhere you go, fighting the child to get them hooked in the carseat, answering a million why questions, shopping for school supplies, fighting them to take a bath, then fighting them to shorten the shower, listening to them cry about their hair, or their clothes, or their friends, on and on and on..........or so you think it will go. Then you turn around and the child has transformed into a young adult. In fact, isn't that you staring back at you? I can't be old enough to have a daughter this age, I'm still this age, aren't I? One week, that's all we have left til she is gone off to start her next chapter. That of college student, independence, new experiences, new friends and less of us. I pray we have grounded her enough to enjoy the wings we give freely in order to fly back to us and to her God. I want to bless her and encourage her and pray the best for her, while fighting back the tears and desire to lock her in my arms of protection! I'm so very proud of you darling........

NAME CHANGE..........Can they do that?

2008-07-25T10:32:00.000-05:00

Well...........I'm not usually fully aware when I make one of my brother's mad, but I think I offended Jody 2 nights ago! When I called to see how Cace was doing.........he told me they had changed the baby's name! I said "WHAT?" Being afraid that the name would be mispoken too often, or thought of as 'casey' - a girl, they went with their other choice of Caedmon Josiah. Keep in mind that this particular part of my family NEVER shares what names they are contemplating until AFTER the birth...........we knew nothing of either name prior to birth. I proceeded to tell Jody that it sounded like caveman and he was not happy. He figures people will call him Cade. Now, mind you......the name Jody is best known as a girl's name, and none of his other 4 children are called by anything other than their given name..........

I will love this baby no matter the name, but may just have to call him CJ. Because as I feared, when I shared the name with people, they mistook it for caveman or caymen.

By the way, I did not receive the position at work due to the fact that my "house is on the market!" I'm not sure what to think about that..........is it discrimination? What if we sell the house and just move to Kearney? I could have still driven 15 miles to work and not had a problem with that. Instead, the position is being filled from outside the bank, but I am expected to continue in that capacity until the girl can spend 2-3 weeks training at another branch and then I will have to train her on some things at our bank.............I'm thinking..........NO, not doing it.

I'm worth more than that, and there are better managed places to work.........so..........

The house stays on the market and I may play Aunt for awhile........Jody & Nicki now have 5 with the oldest age 7, they can certainly use my help. Janin & Amie will have #3 in December and the oldest is 4 and Rance & Brylie are having #2 in October.............

Meanwhile, I continue to pray and listen for God's directives.........as well as my husband's! He's very supportive and willing for me to take a break.............we'll just have to see

Baby #1......nope, not mine

2008-07-21T22:52:00.000-05:00

Though this is MY baby #1, it's not the one I'm referring to, read on.

I haven't gotten to see Lee yet, since his return from 2 weeks in Michigan, but popped onto facebook this evening and was jolted to alertness when I saw his most recent mobile upload! For any of you that know my family.......this took me back 25 years to when Lawrence and I started dating!! He really does look alot like his dad. Of course, I don't like the beard, it's too scruffy and makes his chin that much bigger. But I love the boy, so whatever. He did say it was the last time he went 3 weeks without shaving........whew.........

I've just come from the hospital where the first of three nephews/niece to be born this year, was. Cace Josiah came into this world at 7:39 this morning. That's pronounced: hard c, soft c - as in a "case" of the flu. It's Irish.....as is his mama. Unfortunately, there are no pictures yet. He went directly to NICU due to poor breathing and is still there. He was born by C-section, so didn't get the nice squeeeeze that a vaginal birth gives, thus still has some fluid in his lungs and an irregular breathing pattern. Mama is doing okay, very nauseated from the anesthesia and pain medication. Daddy is staying pretty much by Cace's side and praying. He has a little IV in his arm, and an oxygen tent. His color looks good, heart rate is strong and no murmer. So we're all thankful for an easy delivery and praying for quick recovery for mama and strengthened lungs for baby. Cace weighed 7.2 and was 20 inches long. I will post pictures once I can get my hands on that little critter!

Purpose

2008-07-19T11:58:00.000-05:00

Purpose: 1. the reason for which something exists or is done, made, used, etc.
2. an intended or desired result; end; aim; goal. 3. determination; resoluteness.
4. the subject in hand; the point at issue. 5. practical result, effect, or advantage: to act to good purpose. –verb (used with object)
6. to set as an aim, intention, or goal for oneself. 7. to intend; design.
8. to resolve (to do something): He purposed to change his way of life radically

How many times have I asked God what my purpose in life is? And how many times have I gotten different answers? I believe God's ultimate purpose for us is to be his child and eventually spend eternity with him.......but I also believe he has many other purposes for us, depending on where we are in our earthly walk of life.

I am currently dealing with a very frustrating situation in my work and wish I could tell some people how incompetent, sexist, demeaning and lacking they are.......but it's hard to say that to management! I fight with whether I'm where God wants me, wants to use me and teach me........or if I should just "get the hell out of dodge!" Once a decision can be made here, then a decision will be made on whether we continue to list the house and try to move south, or stay put.

I know my family has a long history and many ties to Lathrop, but for me, a lot of those ties are painful, annoying and really have very little to do with who I am. I wish God would just pick me up and plant me somewhere else. Like Belarus, Ukraine or Russia!! I spent 2 weeks in that area about 10 years ago and absolutely fell in love with the people, countryside and mission work I was doing. I'd been to many areas of the world, but never felt so at home and in love with the people. After returning home, I did some digging and found that my mother's ancestors were from those areas. Maybe that's why I felt so at home?

I've been dreaming of returning, praying God would direct my path and I have now found information about a mission that is all Russia! It's called simply! Russian Missions. One of the people involved with this spent time in Missouri at the Midwestern Baptist Seminary in KC and is a Russian native. Pastor Vitali Yuchkovski has a newsletter and there is a website. They have a mission group going in October, but I'm not sure if I and Lawrence are meant to go. Praying about that.

I don't know how I got off on that, but I'll come back to our day to day activites. So I'm battling some demons at work, getting Lauren ready to go to college, continuing to learn what makes a good marriage, reading a lot of books, trying to spend more time reaching out to others, rather than caccooning myself at home, and eat right! To have peace of mind really does take meditation, determination and purpose of heart. Our lives are so bombarded with stimuli that is worthless.........it's no wonder people have quit using their brains and just do whatever feels good!
So turn off the t.v., loud music and computers.........and turn on some quiet music or no noise at all, and let God permeate your thoughts. He loves to love us, and give us his peace..........if we'll just stop long enough to let Him.

Have a wonderful day, pray for me and know I'm praying as well.

Wonderful mistake!

2008-07-12T13:01:00.000-05:00

In my last post I mentioned the number of nieces/nephews I would have at Christmas time this year. Yesterday brought exciting news that Janin & Amie would NOT be having a boy, but their first daughter!!! I'm so excited to get another niece. We need a girl in the mix as Rachel & Jacqueline are getting older and we wouldn't want all those boys without a little girl around to keep them straight!

I get to go babysit Aden & Deegan tonight while Janin & Amie go out for a much needed quiet evening together. I'm sure it will take me a week to recover, but it will be worth it!! :)

No news on the house, but that's ok, we may just decide to stay here afterall.

Mom's family tree keeps growing...........

2008-07-07T20:14:00.001-05:00

My mom passed away 2 years ago with ovarian cancer.......the baton of Matriarch was passed to me. I could not pass up this photo op to share how her grandchildren will number 12 by this Christmas. She absolutely LOVED her family and her grandchildren.

My sisters (n-law) and I have something very special in common.......NO......it's not pregnancy this year! We all grew up with brothers ONLY! Needless to say, we know how to handle our brothers and we love having sisters after all those years without. Another quirky thing about us, our names all end with the same sound.......Tami, Nicki, Amie and Brylie.........as if God knew we would be sisters all along.....oh, yah, HE did!

However, as I mentioned above, all 3 are pregnant this year and I'm loving it! Being an aunt has got to be the most wonderful experience this side of Heaven........I know, you say being a grandparent is but I'm not ready for that.

Anyway, by Christmas of this year, I will have 10 nieces and nephews, age 8 and under. If that wasn't bad enough, 8 of them will be boys, age 4 and under! There's no question the Carlson name will continue for many generations to come! For those of you wondering and that know us......Amie is on the left, she's married to Janin and pregnant with their 3rd; Nicki is in the middle, married to Jody and pregnant with their 5th and that's Brylie on the right, married to Rance and pregnant with their 2nd.

Now having all those nieces and nephews hasn't caused me any gray hairs, but my son's blog on his trip to Michigan this past weekend HAS! If you get the chance, check it out......claddwellers.blogspot.com..........and feel my pain!

The lives we touch.

2008-07-06T21:10:00.000-05:00

You know how sometimes you get a message on your answering machine, and you think, I'll return that call in a little while.......I forgot about one today, but thankfully the caller tried again! An acquaintance from Lee's earlier days remembered me fixing some sauteed vegetables on a grill when we were all together at the "Show Me" games for soccer, in Columbia. This must have been at least 6-8 years ago! She had just come from the garden and remembered how much her husband had enjoyed this recipe. After giving her the quick fix, we went on to visit about all kinds of things........including our children (she has a daughter Lee's age), church, school, work and community.

She mentioned, as so many have, her surprise that we were selling the house and wanted to know more. There's really not much to tell right now, still in a holding pattern, as are many that have their homes on the market. In the middle of our conversation, she commented "you're behind!" I said, "what?" You're behind on your blogspot............oh.........laughing after that.

So I thought I'd pop on here and tell you that there is nothing to tell! No lookers, no calls, but that's ok. We're not in a hurry, don't know where we want to go and still find this house quite comfortable. Unlike others, that really do need to get their houses sold........I feel for them.......I'm sure it's quite frustrating. The almighty dollar that isn't so mighty right now and the horrific gas prices are not making our well known commutes so attractive to city people.

Besides the house, Lee is doing well in his apartment and new found independence......he's not that independent, we're still paying for college! Emily is still in the picture, though they may have your typical tif once in awhile. She's living with 2 other females and learning what sharing space with someone other than family is all about. Lauren is just biding her time until we move her to Cape Girardeau in August and we're just getting older.

This was for you, Theresa! Have a great day.

Glimpses: Past, Present & maybe Future

2008-06-26T22:40:00.000-05:00

I'm typing this in pink for Emily! She loves pink, she's all girl and as pure and genuine as they come. I had the privilege of attending her 20th birthday party tonight, along with about 20 - 30 others. She and her 2 room-mates sent out facebook invitations and requested people to bring things like food, plates, etc. I was so impressed by their resourcefulness and willingness to look to others for assistance. I've always been bad about that and wished I was better at it. As I watched Emily, Lee and the others mingle; visit; relax; come and go...........I realized many things that I never experienced as a young adult. There was such a comraderie and comfort in the atmosphere..........I realized the one binding element was the love that these young people have for God and each other. They are all (for the most part) involved with Campus Crusade and attend church together. In fact, the female half of their leaders was in attendance as well. Emily's blended families were present as was I; the lucky mom of the boyfriend. So my past was much different at that age..........I was married and didn't think a large circle of friends was important...........boy, was I wrong! Young people as well as all ages need a good circle of friends.

So the present allowed me the joy of sharing with these young adults and admiring the strength of faith they have. Many of us have yet to reach that strength and our lives may be half over already! Prayer was said before the meal, I heard nary a foul word and none of the young adults treated we parents like we were in the way or putting a damper on their plans. It was true fellowship. I count my blessings for the fact that I haven't been thrown off as useless by my children and their acquaintances. God's plan for fellowship, love and support is so awesome.......I just wish we could see more of it in more places.

The future? I believe miss Emily is a very special person to my son......as well as to me.......and I look forward to the day that I just might get to call her "daughter". Her ability to love those around her individually and without having to be stuck to my son's side, yet having the knowledge, trust and faith that he cares deeply for her and can rest assured in that, is phenomenal to me. It took me years of learning, struggling........and running off many of Lawrence's friends, before I was able to come to that point. I'm still not the best at it! Then to see my son able to do the same thing! WOW To realize that they are so in love with God, trust him completely and are willing to let Him direct their paths............are able to reach out to those around them...........and able to trust in their love for one another...............just makes me humble, thankful and grateful.........along with a few tears of joy. It also makes me miss the little boy that; I used to rub his feet to get him to sleep, and cheer on at sporting events, and get so irritated with because he wouldn't settle down and be still................you will never realize how fast times flies until it has!

As far as the house situation? Nothing happening there.........just waiting - no big hurry - no big deal. We believe things will happen when God decides it's time.......bye for now.

Obsessed, but not compulsive, YET!

2008-06-17T23:52:00.000-05:00

Obsessed: to preoccupy the mind of excessively! I had to look the word up to make sure I spelled it right......that's the epitome of obsessed!

It's midnight and after looking at 7 houses tonight after work, I'm still looking online.

Lawrence and I were out to dinner last Friday and we'd driven around some neighborhoods prior; so my mind was swirling when I looked at him, mentioned I'd forgotten how draining this was and asked if he thought we'd ever find something we agreed on? He quietly said "we did", it just sold, however. Oh yea, we did agree on that one in Gladstone, the one that wasn't meant to be!!!! ARGggggggg

Well, tonight I discovered the Parkville area. Found a house I like, very close to I-29 and convenience/discount/grocery/restaurants and the all important shopping establishments. Also found one in Gladstone and 2 more online that look good. Each one with it's niceties and quirks. A couple are nice enough to replace ours, but then there is the price. Some I looked at were beautiful on the outside and awful on the inside. Others were just the opposite. Pictures seen online are quite misleading when actually eyeballing it. Now.....I like 2.......but Lawrence hasn't seen them, yet..........both have only been on the market for a week.........so what are the chances that they'll sell before; he sees them, we do a more thorough visit, then make an offer, then hold our breath?

On the flip side; our realtor spoke with the realtor from our first showing. The resulting conversation went something like this: "they really like and want the property, it's just what they're looking for, they're wanting to move to Lathrop and are going to talk to their loan person to see if they can get financing to go ahead and buy, take their time moving and worry about selling their current house after moving." Now isn't that just ideal? Perfect house for perfect people in a perfect world.....NOT.......they're either loaded or stupid. We'll just have to wait and see which......let's all hope loaded wins this one.

On top of this, I'm trying to do the job of 2 for the next two weeks at work and my neck muscles are knotted to say the least.......I need a strong drink to say the most. My co-worker had better be having a GREAT time, because when she gets back.......I'll tell her how much I appreciate her and all the work she does.....:)

The first showing.

2008-06-13T15:58:00.000-05:00

It's friday afternoon, I'm sitting at work and Lauren calls. "Mom, they just called and want to show the house between 3 and 4." It's 2:45 and I immediately start thinking of the little things that should be done........sweep the mud/cat room, put the sack of clothes in the store room, vacuum the kitchen where the cats like to lay, make sure Lauren's room is decent...... So I tell my boss I need to run home for a few minutes, as the house is going to be shown. When I walk in, Lauren is already sweeping the mudroom and I get some boxes/sacks moved and spot vacuum the kitchen. I do a quick glance, tell Lauren she has to leave and head back to work. I call her to see if she's left, and she's picking up her bedroom! She did finally get left. Actually, she took off to the city to hang out by herself! I hope the quick clean wasn't enough to put her over the edge!! Just kidding, she's not my cleanest child. I called Lawrence to let him know the house was being shown and he said we'd probably have to pack tomorrow! When I said 'doubt it', he commented that it was whetting the worm........at least they're fishing........

Well, that was quite a comparison! Now, how do I feel about showing the house? Will they like it? Want to buy it? Do I really want someone else in my house? Do I really want to continue looking at other houses and try to imagine them as 'home'? Yes, but it sure does wear a person out!

I am so proud of my daughter, it's very enlightening when you realize your kids do have brains, they do use them, and they can think for themselves!!! I really appreciated your help today Lauren.......thanks........I love you.........MOM

Not the Right One.........and family

2008-06-09T21:48:00.000-05:00

So the house in Gladstone.....well, remember we wrote an offer on Sunday night? This morning when our realtors called their realtor to apprise them of our offer; we found out that the homeowner had accepted an offer just last night! Probably about the same time we were writing ours! That was a quick answer from God, wasn't it? So, we keep looking and praying. That door isn't locked, yet........the other buyer's loan may fall through, or they may not like the inspection results, which would open it up again........but we don't think so.

It's very wierd to come down the street and see the 'for sale' sign in our yard, like someone's playing a prank. We hope God has someone in mind to come and want/love our home. Lawrence just wishes we could pick it up and take it with us! He doesn't embrace change near like I do :)

I received scanned ultrasound photos from my youngest brother's wife tonight. Baby boy! In fact; all 3 of my brothers and their wives are expecting within the year. All 3 are having boys. By Christmas I will have 10 nieces/nephews (on my side) age 8 and under. 8 of them will be boys age 4 and under. Don't think that's going to be a little crazy, do you? I can't wait. I'm just really glad my 2 are so much older.........they're very helpful with the little ones, and I get to return to solitude when I want to!

Home is where your Heart is....

2008-06-08T22:50:00.000-05:00

It's no wonder I'm unsettled.........

If home is where your heart is, mine is in heaven. But I'm not there yet! After spending 37 of my 42 years in Lathrop, I don't feel like this is home! In fact, I've never felt like this was home. It was mom's home. After many years of complaining, relenting, searching, wishing, talking, crying, hoping, surrendering..........Lawrence has heard my reasoning, raised our children, paid the price of time lost and money spent (on gas and long hours) and is supporting me in the next CHANGE that I've asked to impose upon him. I'm an adventuroust at heart. I embrace change, in fact, I breath and live change. Routine is hard for me and I like nothing square that fits in it's own box. Now is the time; the kids are out of the house, but haven't landed permanantly; Max is still healthy and able; Mom is gone as is our childhood home........

At least I haven't asked him to leave the state, or better yet, the country...........though I wouldn't mind that myself. It's only Gladstone - Happy Rock!! 10-15 minutes to his work - as opposed to 45. He's a good man, of which is hard to find.

I wonder, is this real? Could we really live where you can go to Walmart, then Hy-vee and be home in 5 minutes? Will we really be able to have time for a night out - during the week? What will it be like to come home, shower, go to dinner and still be home before 8pm?

The kids have given us their blessing and it will be easier for my brother's to drop off the little ones so they and their brides can have a date-nite.

So it's bittersweet........a custom-built home in a well-known community to a new adventure. So tonight we listed our house and placed a bid on one in the "city"............Now we wait and see what God has in store for us.........

Lee's first place

2008-06-08T22:13:00.000-05:00

Just a few days ago I helped Lee move into his first apartment. It's really nice, nicer than LDM #4 and my first house! It's really close to campus and on the ground/underground level. I was glad for that; as carrying mattresses/chairs/TV stands was made much easier for me. It's so wierd to see your babies grow up into adults. I praise God for the blessings my babies are to me. I also pray He continues to guide and watch over them.

High School Graduations.....

2008-06-08T22:04:00.000-05:00

With Lauren's graduation comes a change in our lives...."the empty nesters"!! That's Lauren on the right, with her friend Jo.

Our niece, Whitney, graduated the same day, same time. My sister'n'law Nicki also had a younger brother graduate with Whitney's class...needless to say, it was a very busy day.