Laura Jean

This Song

2011-10-18T20:55:00.004-05:00

Recently I helped a former student do a project for a gifted and talented class (if you know me is a far stretch for me). For part of the project he had to think of three songs that help define him and produce the lyrics and describe why. I am not very knowledgeable of songs and certainly not their lyrics, but also we worked together to come up with two. He is very close to his family so I come up with We Are Family and he choose You Are My All and All, a praise and worship song—first of all WOW for a 6^th grader to choose that---- but it gave me the thought to come up with one for myself in my life right now. We sing lots of awesome songs at church that can draw me into a musical worship of Christ. The one, though, that has stuck for right now and I listen to it almost daily is Never Once by Matt Redman. This song, I think is a great description of our life with Christ yesterday, today, and tomorrow. I need to know and be confident that I am not walking this life on my own.

I do believe that for every step of my life, He has been with me. I do not always understand it. There are times when I am disappointed with it, but I can believe that he has been there. I can look back and see that. I can look and see how he has been merciful to me, how he has provided for me, how he has carried me and loved me tenderly and how he has disclipline me justly. I know that there will be scars and struggles that will come and would come even if I would not be venturing into this next season of my life, but I am certain that this next one will have discouragement, disappointment, expectations will be stricken, and that there will be days when I will questions what I have done. I am sure there will be tears, because I do that sometimes.

BUT

I know in all this I will not walk alone. I believe that God ordained these days to come. He knows what will happen before I do. He knows the fun things that will happen, the situations that will be stressful and I will need help from others. I am sure that I will mess up because I do that often anyways, but I constantly amazed by God’s sweet grace and am looking forward to praising him though this season.

Never Once

Standing on this mountaintop

Looking just how far we’ve come

Knowing that for every step

You were with us

Kneeling on this battle ground

Seeing just how much You’ve done

Knowing every victory

Was Your power in us

Scars and struggles on the way

But with joy our hearts can say

Yes, our hearts can say

Never once did we ever walk alone

Never once did You leave us on our own

You are faithful, God, You are faithful

Kneeling on this battle ground

Seeing just how much You’ve done

Knowing every victory

Was Your power in us

Scars and struggles on the way

But with joy our hearts can say

Yes, our hearts can say

Never once did we ever walk alone

Never once did You leave us on our own

You are faithful, God, You are faithful

Scars and struggles on the way

But with joy our hearts can say

Never once did we ever walk alone

Carried by Your constant grace

Held within Your perfect peace

Never once, no, we never walk alone

Never once did we ever walk alone

Never once did You leave us on our own

You are faithful, God, You are faithful

Every step we are breathing in Your grace

Evermore we’ll be breathing out Your praise

You are faithful, God, You are faithful

Changes are Coming

2011-09-25T17:10:00.001-05:00

Well I guess I could change my mind, but I’m not. What I have been waiting for, praying for, and have felt called to do has now happened. I was called last Thursday from Catholic Charities to take a kid into my home, not just one, but two kids. (If you have no clue what I am talking about, I am licensed by Catholic Charities to do foster care for unaccompanied refugee minors. Here’s a synopsis of how it all went the call and me saying yes.

Thursday afternoon I was at school and I got a phone call from the recruiter at CC and was able to call her back about 2:00 and have the conversation. She told me they had just gotten a referral they wanted to offer to me. (The funny thing, a month before she had said they had not had a referral since Dec/Jan, she gave not indication that it would happen anytime soon, in fact, she seemed sure that it would not happen until the new year—there had just been a big slow down in any body coming over) The referral is for a 17 year old boy from Burma and 15 year old from Burma. (The funny thing about that part is that I had been told that I would be placed with girls and that boys were not an option. I really was fine with that, but I did not like the idea of being limited about with I could/would get.) She told me I needed to let her know by 4:30 that day. She told me some history about the two, sent me some information about both of them, and reiterated that she needed to today. The older boy is on a fast track to get here because of his age and will be coming within 3 weeks, the younger will probably come a little later—not exactly sure when. Well I quickly sent a text to some people who know that I am doing this asking for quick wisdom, talked it over with a couple of close co workers, and of course I said nervously said yes. I know that these two are not related, but that they are from the same people group. I assume that they do not know each other, but they could. Their history is very different. Both of their lives have been challenging and traumatic in their own way.

There are a bazillion things going through my mind. I’m excited, nervous, anxious, feeling completely inadequate, afraid, wondering if I have totally lost my mind, apprehensive, ect, ect.

This process has taken longer than I have thought it would. There have been times where I have been discouraged with it. My continual prayer though has been that God would be preparing my heart and the hearts of the child/children that would be become a part of my home and that they would come in his perfect timing.

Some specific things that you can pray for that are in my thoughts currently are just the logistics of having the kid. School in particular. There are some options, I live in Denton and work in Lewisville ISD. Like I said the logistics of it all. Within three weeks there should be this kid with me. He will need basic necessities, clothing, ect. Most likely he will come with one bag of something---maybe. I will try and keep you guys updated with this crazy adventure that I am about to partake in.

Thank you in advance for your prayers.

URM Video from Catholic Charties

2011-01-17T22:12:00.000-06:00

Hopeful Possibility

2011-01-17T21:25:00.005-06:00

My heart has been stirred for the poor and the needy for as long as I can remember. It might have started early when I would visit my mom schools on days off. I can remember sitting with one of her kindergartner boys (don't remember the kid's name) who was sick in the nurse's office and was going to home early. This was all going on right before Christmas. He was not feeling well, obviously, and I was sitting with him trying to comfort him before his mother got there. Trying to make small talk with the kid, I asked the kid what he wanted for Christmas. I can remember him saying all I want is some new socks without holes in them. My heart was crushed. I always believed growing up that I was a "poor" person. I was not afforded luxuries of name brands and the latest and greatest gadgets and"toys" as I felt many of the people around me were, but I never was in need or clothing, food, or most of all love. I have not really known hardships like many in our world have. My job as a teacher in Dallas and now in a more needy part of Lewisville has kept my heart stirring towards kids who need more that I could ever have imagined as a child.

My first year in Lewisville I my first two refugees. One from Burma and one from Nigeria. Now every since I have had a least one refugee from Burma. I do have a great connection with many in the Chin community at Lakeland. ( Chin is the people group from Burma that have settled in Lewisville.)

Last year I got a job offer to tutor some Chin Unaccompanied Refugee Minors (URM). URMs are refugees that have come to the United States with out their parents or other adult to take care of them. They have for whatever reason been separated from their family weather it is from death, or flight. To make a kinda long story short, I applied for the job, got offered the job, and then because of some summer opportunities that I had, I choose to decline the job. I remember thinking how interesting that would be for me to do one day.

Last Sunday when it snowed, I showed up to church early because of the weather and listened to a girl that is single and very close to my each. She had said she just finished her training to be a foster parent and had been given her first off--a 17 with a 2 year old daughter--she declined, not feeling like she was prepared for that her first time (I WOULD HAVE DONE THE SAME THING) But anyways I got home, snow and all not really able to do anything else and my brain started turning reflecting on the earlier conversation. Why couldn't I do that? The childish well is she can than why can't I? I truly believe God had that conversation happen for me to hear, and pulled that memory from last year back to my head. I spent hours looking for information on fostering URMs. I honestly really could find a way to contact some one for it here in the state of Texas. I was really frustrated, and then I thought I should email the lady that I had interviewed with and she could pass the information along to someone. I told people the next day at school my heart was stirring and I needed to find the information and set people out to pray about it. I sent emails to my brother and another friend who is a foster/adopt mom seeing if the have information. They did not, but I heard back from the lady I had emailed and that was not her program with Catholic Charities. Here is one of the funny/coincidences (sure it is) that if I had waited a week to send the email, I could not have started the process yet. But I did email and went to my first class last Saturday and and returning this week..

Pray with me through this please. I am excited and will give more details. This may help me to stay blogging for a bit.

Back in the Game???

2011-01-09T20:38:00.004-06:00

Ok so I went the other day to blog on a friends post to post a comment and it took me forever to remember my password for the blog. I had no idea. I tried everything I could think of finally I got it. I know I think it says I have not posted anything since October or 2009 or sometime before or after that. I do think about this blog ofter, but have issues with significance and belief that things going on in my life are important. (I think it is called fear of man, in face I am sure that it is) I have spent some painful time trying to dig through my issues (and boy do I have them) and am relying on the verses

Luke 12:22-29

²²And he said to his disciples, "Therefore I tell you, do not be anxious about your life, what you will eat, nor about your body, what you will put on. ²³For life is more than food, and the body more than clothing. ²⁴Consider the ravens: they neither sow nor reap, they have neither storehouse nor barn, and yet God feeds them. Of how much more value are you than the birds! ²⁵And which of you by being anxious can add a single hour to his span of life? ²⁶If then you are not able to do as small a thing as that, why are you anxious about the rest?27 Consider the lilies, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin, yet I tell you, even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. ²⁸But if God so clothes the grass, which is alive in the field today, and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, how much more will he clothe you, O you of little faith! ²⁹And do not seek what you are to eat and what you are to drink, nor be worried.

I am thankful for the process of self reflection/evaluation. I am thankful for the pricking of my heart and pleading the Lord to keep peeling away layers of being anxious/fearfulness/self-righteousness/ect...(what I can ISSUES)

I feel like I may share more about some of my "issues," but then again I may not. I think I will continue to write it this a little more regularly than once a year, but then again I may not.

My Kroger Trip

2009-08-18T06:40:00.002-05:00

I did make it to Kroger on Saturday. I got there about 9:00 in the morning. It was not too crowded when I got there, but most of those who were there had coupon binders--(I just can not bring myself to carry a binder around with me, I have one at home to see an organize them, but I take a little accordion file that a got a yard sale for a quarter to the actual store) There were even a couple of men there with wads of coupon who did not appear to be trailing a lady. How did I do? I know I did not do as well as some, but I am happy with it. It's not how much you spend right?? It's how much you save! If you ever look at a receipt it gives you totals at the bottom that say manufacturers coupons--my equaled $29.15 and then bonus which is the the doubled which was $29.15, so the total in coupons that handed was $58.30. Then it tells you Kroger plus saving--using the card-- which was 24.78. The last thing is the total savings, coupons, doubling, using the card--for a total savings of $83.08. My total out of pocket was $56.58 AND plus I am getting a ten dollar rebate for some things that I got for a total out of pocket of 46.58 or 68%. I really get a kick out of seeing a total and watching it go down, down, down!!! Just because some of you asked, there it is!!!

I'll Be at Kroger Saturday!!

2009-08-12T21:30:00.002-05:00

So I think few people know this, but I am a couponer. (LAME, but what can I say, I've gotten kinda addicted!!) I have been clipping them for while and have a couple of websites that I go to that help with matching them up with sales and getting the best deals and I even get some things for free. This idea had been in my head for a while because one of my coworkers would talk about couponing nonstop to a honestly obnoxious, almost annoying way daily!! I know she was trying to be helpful and inform, but I would think really is that all you have to talk about??? Then I started it around Thanksgiving after seeing a news story about how this lady had brought Thanksgiving meal for under $10. I started slowly by reading her website and then finding another website that I heard on Oprah. Then it just rolled. I love going to the grocery store and the cashier ringing everything up and then handing the cashier my card and watching the price go down and then the coupons and then I get to see it go down even more. Last week when I went to Kroger my savings at the bottom was 66%!!! There are lots of ladies around who are tons better than me, but I do what I can. That all said, I am going to be at Kroger this Saturday with every other couponer in the North Texas area---and those poor people who have no idea what is going in a line a mile long--- because Kroger is doubling coupons up to $1.00 that day only. They usually triple up to 39 and double only up to 50!!! Can't wait!!! Maybe one day I will show my binder, but then you would really think I'm nutso!!!!

3804 Cliffside Dr.

2009-08-06T22:36:00.008-05:00

Well I have done it, am doing it, and I'm reminding myself that is not a done deal. I signed papers last Sunday to build a house and payed my earnest. Not kidding!!! I looked at many homes that we already built. I had my mind set on one in Corinth and my realtor and I were driving along and saw a sign for new homes in Denton. I will admit, I decided to go over there less than thrilled and almost pouted walking through and listening to the guy. I was upset because I thought my time and this guys time was being wasted because in the end, I was not going to be able to build a home unless it was like 1200 sq feet and I really liked that house in Corinth and I ticked because I knew if we didn't jump on the house, I would lose because homes in my price range that are decent are not staying on the market. After looking at numbers and discussing the options with (ok maybe complaining or whining about the options) I decided to go with the new home build and think I have gotten past the feeling of dread, what the heck am I doing, to being really excited about. Thrilled about the upgrade I choose to do---fighting my very opinionated but great realtor with what he thought was best---can't wait to see the process start and finish. I'm prepared to give more of my money for this new adventure of home ownership. It is on the books to be ready end of October/early November. Picture of dirt coming soon!!!

My design in a little different, but this is basically it!!

On the Road to Mexico Again

2009-07-04T22:31:00.008-05:00

That's right. Tomorrow morning we leave for another trip to San Miguel, the little village in Mexico that I have grown to love. I go to refresh myself, to give me a chance to slow down and enjoy simple things, to show people God's love, and most importantly for myself to grown closer to Him. We go with several purposes---finish the playground and plaza that we started in March by adding a 20 by 20 shelter and 4 picnic tables, we are delivering school supplies, having a VBS for the kids, facilitating a women's bible study, supporting the local pastors, and just loving on the people in this tiny village underneath the most beautiful night sky with millions of stars.

OUR TEAM: Steven, Sherry, Alanna, and Ethan Keithly, Jay, Kathy, Sydney, and Jason Robertson, Jenn and Seth Rochelle, and Me.

God- I pray that you would be glorified in the trip. I pray that is done would show your love to other people. I pray that we would be a blessing to other because you have blessed us. God help this trip to be totally led by you. God would you please go before us a lead the way. I pray for safe travels, direction for what to do and how to do things to bring your glory, I pray that we would all have good attitudes and that we would be flexible. Thank you for San Miguel.

Verses for San Miguel---

I have not stopped thanking God for you. I pray for you constantly asking the glorious Father of our Lord Jesus Christ to give you spiritual wisdom and insight that you might grow in the knowledge of God. I pray that your hearts will be flooded with light so that you can understand the confident hope he has given to those he called--his holy people who are his rich and glorious inheritance.

ESPHESIANS 1:16-18

Pictures for last trip during spring break.

My New Look

2009-07-03T14:16:00.003-05:00

Thanks Carrie for the website info....what do you think? What I really don't like is the header. I cannot figure out how to change it though. Other than that, I think it is totally me at least for now. Maybe it will keep blogging for a little bit.

Cute Blog

2009-07-02T23:19:00.002-05:00

Can anyone help me with how t make my blog cuter??? Do I have to pay for that?? I do not have any pictures to put in some a really creative title way, I was just thinking some kinda outside border thingy. Make sense? Send me to a sight, call me on the phone, send me a message on facebook, email me whatever. Can you help? PLEASE. Maybe it would make me want to open this computer up more often an write about myself. Maybe, you never know. I am super tired, had a busy day, will write more tomorrow. 11:24 still today like I promised earlier.

Anyone in Shock????

2009-07-02T06:58:00.002-05:00

So now that summer is here for me, and after today I may have nothing much to do for a while, I will attempt for at least the summer to make a "blog recommitment." ( I think I may have posted more last summer in a couple of months than I did the entire school year) Today is the last day of summer school (or summer hell as I prefer to call it) and I think I have some stuff to write about. Topics could include, but are not limited to....... end of yet another school year, back on the hunt, Nash, running???, help me change my boring blog look, leaving the country again, tribute to my Papike, Ranger games, ect, ect, ect. So stay tuned. There will be an entry tonight unless somet hing really weird happens.

Things I Love about Mexico and Things I Love About the USA

2009-03-28T11:12:00.004-05:00

THINGS I LOVE ABOUT GOING TO MEXICO
*Time seems to kinda stop…no body is in a hurry to do anything…no cell phones, computers, televisions, email, no bills for me to pay officially….The sea of countless stars above me at night….Ladies who willingly to a great job of fixing my hair….Just a seemingly simplier way of life. I always “reconnect” with God when I go there. How someone be there and not see his majesty between the mountains and the stars above you. When I am there this verse repeats over and over in my head. The way of life there gives you time to reflect and be still and look at good.
Psalm 46:10 (NIV)
10 "Be still, and know that I am God;
I will be exalted among the nations,
I will be exalted in the earth."
Psalm 46:10 (Message—just because I enjoy reading this version A LOT--- it amuses me!!!)
8-10 Attention, all! See the marvels of God!
He plants flowers and trees all over the earth,
Bans war from pole to pole,
breaks all the weapons across his knee.
"Step out of the traffic! Take a long,loving look at me, your High God,
above politics, above everything."

Of course the Message reminds me on one I thing I love the best about Mexico…NO TRAFFIC!!!!

THINGS I LOVE ABOUT THE USA
*Flushing toilets….(no out houses or bucket flushing)
*Putting toilet paper in toilet papers not trash cans
*Lights on the street to see where you are going at night.
*Being closer to my family and being able to talk them on when I want to.
*Being able to talk to and communicate with almost anyone I want to. I GOTTA LEARN SOME SPANISH!!!

Opportunity to Make Fun of Me!! (with a good purpose)

2009-02-09T22:24:00.002-06:00

Mark your calendars!! Saturday March 7, 2009, I will be working at Sonic as a carhop--the Sonic by Lewisville High School. We are doing a fund raiser for the park in San Miguel. (On a side note--I totally hate when I pull into Sonic on a Saturday to get my medium unsweet with extra ice and that sign accepting donations for_________ in on the push button thing.... Now I get to be those people that I hate!!! HA!!!)It is really kinda awesome how God is putting this plaza together. Just listening to the story you know God's hand is in it and I am totally excited about it!!! We attend a rather large church...easily 6000 people attend... and Steven and Sherry just happened to meet the one person in our church who installs playgounds for a living. Not just your run of the mill backyard swing set, but the kind you see at schools and city playground. This guys name is Jay. He has recently started a non profit organization called Playgrounds with a Purpose that he envisions putting in playgrounds all over the world with the purpose of spreading the gospel and he wants to come with us and install brand new great awesome stuff that we could have never imagined possible, but of course with God all things are possible. The minimum plans we have now is a 6 swing swing set, merry-go-round, this climbing thing, seesaws, a tunnel to crawl through, and a pavilion. Can you imagine the blessing to humble San Miguel? I cannot wait to go!!!! The fundraiser will be to help with the cement and to also contribute money directly to Playgrounds with a Purpose so they can continue their work so......

Come, laugh at me, eat some cheddar peppers, drink a lemon berry slush, and help make this trip totally possible with you generous tips because of the awesome service you will receive, and donate to a great cause, Playgrounds with a Purpose.....

Just in case you are wondering...... No I will not be wearing roller skates!

Maribel's Kids

2009-01-29T22:18:00.012-06:00

This is Katie--She totally captured my heart before I even realized who she was. She would just talk, talk, talk to me like I totally understood what she was saying. She hugged me from the start and would do this sweet little kiss on the cheek when we would depart company. She is a total angel. LOVE THIS GIRL!!!!!

Then I learned who she was. She was the granddaughter of Chila. The lady that lived behind the mission house. My friend from years ago, Maribel had lived there. The last time I was there Maribel had gotten married and moved away. I went with someone else to see Chila who told me what had happened to Maribel before we arrived. Boy, was Chila sad when I went to see her. She immediately started to cry and tried to explain by demonstrating, what had happened to Maribel. The pain that was on her face and inside her was hard to witness. Apparently, Maribel's husband stabbed her fourteen times and then decapitated her. Sorry to be so blunt, but that is the reality. Her mother, her children, and those who love Maribel will not see her on this side of heaven and that breaks my heart that this person made that decision for all those people. It honestly makes me angry that he chose that for this children. Seriously, what kinda man is that? I will tell you that the as far as I know the police have not found him and he apparently has one of their other kids with him still. I do not even know the best way to pray for them. I know that the burden of caring for the young children have fallen on this sweet, but little old lady. I would also imagine a fear not knowing where this guy is and not know what has happened to the other little girl. The oldest boy, Juan, from what the area pastor's family told us, has been having a lot of behavior problems. (The pastor's family has been doing a great job of caring for and supporting this family and have kinda taken this oldest child during the day to help Chila.) When we left we asked how we could support and help her since we are so far away. She is worried about being able to cloth the kids. Her husband is unable to work because of a back injury. Imagine not being able to clothe your children. It is Biblical to care for the orphans and I want to take that seriously.

Carlos-Maribel's 2nd boy-11. The whole time I was there I thought there was just a sadness in his eyes (wonder why)

Manuel-Maribel's baby boy-2

Isn't this picture fun!! I just pointed

the camera at him, called his name,

pointed it and he looked up and screamed.

LOVE IT!!!

I was not able to get a picture with the older boy Juan-13.

Mission Trip to Mexico

2009-01-25T11:37:00.008-06:00

OK so I know it is a month later, but honestly I have found little time to do this and totally want to give the trip justice to what it meant to me. I am never been accused of being a great or creative author. I hope that as you read you can see my heart.

December 26 we loaded the truck and headed south. I road with Steven and Sherry and road the whole way down there in the backseat with their 3 and 6 year old, Alana and Ethan, in the backseat. Riding with the kids was not nearly as bad as it sounded or that I thought it would be to be honest. They are good kids and their parents are not that bad either. About 7 seven hours into the trip we crossed the border with no problem and then after about 5 more hours were in Musquiz where we were greeted by a wonderful family who had dinner ready and waiting for us when we arrived about 9:00 and it was wonderful!! Then they allowed us to take over their hours to sleep for the night. I am not sure where they went, but when we awoke they had breakfast ready for us. Such hospitality, such humility towards us, such kindness, such grace, so much like Jesus.

After breakfast, we shopped at the local grocery store. We got beans, rice, tortilla mix, eggs, oil, water bottles, cakes for a ladies bible study. Some little kids helped us take out our purchases and then proceeded to help themselves to a thing of our chicken spaghetti when we were not looking. I am sure they needed it more than we did and hope they were able to enjoy it. We then loaded up for last four hours of trip with the Keithlys again. It was truly a beautiful ride into the mountains of Mexico. It was majestic and awe-taking. We then pulled into tiny humble San Miguel. Now remember I had been there several times 10 plus years ago plus. As we pulled in I honestly wanted to cry and did get a little teary eyed because I didn't remember it. I could not find the mission house, the little church, or even the school. This place is not big and I could not remember it. I only remember the mountain in the background with the cross on top of it. I was happy to remember that. I told Sherry I was kinda sad because I could not remember it, and she said not to worry that I would it come back quickly. Maybe the surrounding did not come back quickly, but the love for the people did return fast. We were quickly welcomed by the people who live there and even took over their homes. We stayed in the home of Fele and Pepe and their son Nester and his wife. 6 of the people on our trip stayed in their home. Their hospitality was amazing. Fele cooked for us, Pepe walked with us or drove us around if it was dark, they fellowshipped with us, laughed with us, prayed with, and cared for us like we were family. Funny thing about remembering the place is that when we walked in their house the son Nester, who was a young boy, maybe 10 or 11 the last time I was there said he remembered me from years ago. As the week went on, I heard that several times. Really, people remember me????? Later in the week there was another girl (young lady) who had some of the children that were running around with us. She said she remember chasing me around and following me when she was a little girl and now she see her kids doing the same thing. Then there was Chila. A grandmother who remembered me. She is probably 60, but seriously looks like she could easily be in her 80s. She lives behind the mission house with her grand children. I used to run around with her daughter Maribel when I was a youth. I was able to meet Maribel's children Juan, Carlos, Katie, and Manuel. Because of a sad, painful story I was unable to see Maribel and will not see again this side of heaven. (I will tell that story in another post to come with stories of some of the families.) The week consisted of us helping to produce a nativity scene program with the kids at the local church, giving toys to the kids, giving clothes to the people of the San Miguel, having a ladies Bible study/luncheon, and just hanging out loving on the people.

This trip was different than past ones for me though. I think I had always gone thinking that our group was able to do really nice things for people, it was good to give them things, it was good to bring smiles to their faces, it was good to run around and play with the kids. Never before, though, did I really think lasting relationships were possible for a number of reasons. We live 18 hours apart, we do not speak the same language, our lives are completely different.... How do I relate? I left though knowing and believing that relationships are possible, if not just a simply necessity of mission work. Gosh, just the fact that people remember me after ten years, there must have been some type of relationship there. Our mission cannot be strictly humanitarian, the main reason to go is to bring people to acknowledge His glory and if showing humanitarian work is a by-product that's great, but the main purpose must be Christ glorified. The main complete reason to go to San Miguel and return in the future is to build up the saints for Mexico, to team with Pepe to disciple people in San Miguel and other little villages he ministers to.

I told people there that I would be returning in March. I want to build those relationships. God has called me to do that. He has called us to minister to Maribel's children, the orphans of San Miguel, He has called us to walk along side the ministers of San Miguel and live life with them even if we are 18 hours apart.

I will return in March. The hope is that we will build a new, SAFE, playground/plaza for the children and families of San Miguel. I know most who read this have never been, but we need people to partner with us. First, of course, partner with us in prayer. Pray for the people in San Miguel, pray for people to go with us, pray for safety and strong tires, pray that we remember God's glory and His name being know is the reason that we go. Second, we need monetarily help. If you go to the website on the side (keithlyfamilymissions.com) you can donate if you would feel led to do so.

I am also planning on returning this summer for 3 weeks. I am praying for wisdom on how to conduct some VBS with the kids while I am there even with the language barrier. Some ideas of been popping into my head, but please help me pray for wisdom and that adventure.

Thanks so much for praying and reading. I will be adding picture SOON!! PROMISE

Death Row Doggy

2009-01-03T09:25:00.002-06:00

Since I have not gotten pictures from the trip downloaded yet, I am going to tell a quick story about my trip. First of all to let you know I had a wonderful time. I can not wait to go back. If I could have, I would have stayed there longer. But, anyways back to death row doggy. Sherry and her family stayed at a families house while the rest of us stayed at another house. Now to preface this story our friend Brent, who will tell you how much he enjoys eating, said that if he did not get enough to eat, there would be a chicken missing. Sherry reminded him how the chickens are such a vital part of the people existence and eating one would be taking away one of their food supplies. Well, one morning when I walked over to where Sherry was staying one of her kids let me know that the black dog was tied up. Sherry then told me that dog was probably not going to be here our next trip, in fact it would probably be gone as soon as we left. That night the dog had killed two of the families chickens. It is said that as soon as a dog gets a taste of chicken it needs that taste again. The sweet family wanted to wait until we had left so the kids with us did not get upset. So the black doggy may not be alive any longer, it should not have eaten the chicken. In Mexico you can get the death penalty for killing chickens!!

Leaving the USA

2008-12-25T23:06:00.002-06:00

So we are packed up. Clothes are sorted, toys are ready to go, space heaters are going as well. Brent has made his famous chili and even Mandy is providing her chicken spaghetti. No hair dryer coming, makeup, or even nice clothes. I am not even leaving with the expectation of a good hot shower for 6 days. BUT I am so excited. Going on a mission trip to Mexico with a goal to love on His people. We will deliver used clothes, used toys, do a ladies luncheon, minister to the men, and do a little VBS. Nope none of us really speak Spanish, but God always provides and we can certainly love on the people without a common language. I have been on these trips many times in the past, to the same place, but it has been at least 10 years since I have gone. One of the things I love most about being there is how simple life is. I am so ready to be away from TV, cell phones, computers, and a lot of people. I want to be able to go and reflect on things. I am desiring to be still for a while and get to know God some more.

A little while ago someone suggested that I go on a mission trip. !!! (Great idea Nesa) I reconnected with people from The Village who I had done the trips with and they were beginning planning and was hesitant at first, but quickly got on board. I am little sad that I will not see Erica during her first Christmas. (Oh and I will not see her parents Russell or Jeanette either:)

Hope everyone had a Merry Christmas and I ask that you pray for us this week. That God would increase in Mexico and that the trip would not be about us and what we are doing but the total focus would be on Him and bringing Christ the glory. Pray that we would be protected both physically and spiritually. Pray for good tires, and excellent gas mileage. Pray totally for God's will in all that we do.

Our Verse for the Week

Ephesians 4:1-2

Therefore I urge you bothers to live a life worthy of the calling you have received. Be completely humble and gentle baring with one another in love.

LET'S Go: Sherry, Stephen, Tamara, Brent, Ashely, Hunter, Tony, Lolly, and the kids:

Alana (6), Ethan (3), Austin(7)

Plans are to be back December 31. I will try and update when we return.

Random Act that is Totally Cool, You Should Try It

2008-12-25T12:25:00.002-06:00

Last weekend I was returning from celebrating my grandfather's 90th birthday. (Imagine walking this earth for 90 years, I cannot even fathom.) Back to the story, I was in line at chick-fil-a, ordering one of my favorites chicken nuggets, when I pulled up to pay and the nice lady at the window said the lady in front of me had paid for my order and asked her to wish me a Merry Christmas. I was kinda dumbfounded, prepared to pay, but not having to, able to drive away from the window without paying. After I drive away, I was kinda mad a myself because I thought I missed an opportunity to return the favor to the person behind me. I was excited though, becuase I couldn't to actually do it myself to someone. It was funny how a little $5 meal blessed my life, made me smile, left me a little shocked, and gave me a story of kindness to tell people. The next day I went back through Chick-fil-a for breakfast and returned the favor. Do it for someone, bless someone with a simple, tiny act of kindness, remind people about the kindness that is still out there.

A Change

2008-11-17T20:55:00.003-06:00

I guess I just feel like I am in a really strange place in my life. No, I am not trying to get all psychological and I do not feel like my life is flashing before my eyes and that my life is in the last stages. I do not feel that way at all. But I just really am ready for something different in my life. Sometimes, I really wish that I would look at a map, throw a dart, and just move to that place. No matter where it was. The fact of the matter is though, I am a big CHICKEN. This summer had great possibility doing some different things. I really thought that I was going to buy a house this summer. (you can read previous post to figure out that fiasco) That would have been real different. I wanted to paint walls, unpack ALL my boxes and hang stuff on the walls, PAY someone to do my yard, be proud of an accomplishment I had done. (instead I am living in a spot that I seriously in the least dislike) I wanted to do something I never really believed I could or would do on my own. But that did not work out. I decided to wait and do it in a few months. That really does look doubtful now. There was a fews DAYS and I do emphasis DAYS that it looked like I could be in on the brink of a relationship with this guy that seemed really great, but that fell through, totally my fault. Took the advice of others, should not have. (Thanks _____ and ________!!!) I will leave the blanks to protect the guilty. Just kidding!!! In the end I totally am the one who screwed up. I just am sad that I basically was a big scaredy cat about the whole thing and wish I could go back and give it another shot. I sound really selfish and kinda babyish, and extremely whiney, but I just start to think when is some favor going to shine down on me. I look around and see people who from the outside looking in have charmed lives. When will something even remotely exciting happen in my life. I just go to work (which I do LOVE my job, I am so thankful for a job that I generally love going to) come home, go to church here and there, back to work, back home, ect, ect. I am just really desiring a change, something different. I get this conflict in my heart of totally believing that there is a God that thinks that I am AWESOME, who chose me to be me, all my weirdness in all, all my scaredness, every part of me. Who cares about the exact place I am in in my life and orchestrated that for me to be in my perfect place. A God that is in control of my life, a God that I trust, and seek. Then at the same time honestly wondering if he as forgotten about me and wondering if my little life is significant enough for him to even be concerned about. I heard someone say at church last night I choose __(fear)_____ over Faith. What am I choosing over faith?

God- I know that you love me and care about every single part of me. I envision you rolling your eyes at everything I just typed. I think that my silliness can help with your sense of humor. I need restoration in my soul though God. I need you to restore my heart. Help me to smile, laugh, and enjoy where you have me in my life. Help to love others, and see you in everything around. Thanks for a job where I can be reminded of you in children and help me to remember that everything is YOURS. I am just tired right now and need to be refreshed also. Help me to choose faith over whatever I may choose beforehand.

Friday Night

2008-11-04T20:31:00.002-06:00

I wish I had more exciting tale to tell. I wish I could think of some funny stuff to write about what I did, but it just wasn't that funny. I will say that I actually had a pretty good time and it did not seem as bad as I thought it would be. I was nervous as heck going into, I honestly did some emotional/nervous eating beforehand. Needless to say I was extremely thankful that this even was being held at my friends wine store, Divine Wine of Plano. Another friend who was helping said she would "keep my glass full." That was sure done, but I did not have as much as I would have thought. So what was it? Have you done a decent job of inferring? If you are any good, you are correct and I went speed dating. I went on 10 dates in one night. Six minutes each. I was not nearly as bad as I thought, I actually kinda enjoyed it. I laughed, ROLLED MY EYES A LOT (with my eyelids closed), answered the question a lot what do I like to do in my spare time. That is not as easy of a question as it sounds. I do not want to sound like I am the most boring person on Earth. Maybe I need to work on the answer. (If you know what I like to do in my spare time, can you please help) ANYWAYS...... I am sure I kept you all in great anticipation, and I am sorry if it is not as exciting as I made it sound like it could have been. That's it, there you go, my exciting adventure Friday night!!

Happy Halloween (and major tease)

2008-10-30T21:56:00.002-05:00

Not sure I have seen a cuter Halloween greeting anywhere!!!!

****Something I do tomorrow night (Friday) has the potential to be blogworthy. I think I am doing something that pretty much no one who reads this blog has ever done (or even thought about doing).... Totally about 10 miles out of my comfort zone, but hey peer pressure is pretty amazing!!! You will have to wait till a future post (MAYBE)****

Dear Erica,

2008-10-26T21:15:00.009-05:00

Dear Erica-

So as I sat down and looked at you as I held you and tears come to my eyes. I thought about how much you were prayed for and how much you were loved. Do you have any idea how much you are loved? Do you know that you were loved before you were even born? I was at school Friday on your birthday waiting and waiting for the phone to ring to announce your safe arrival. I was not happy at all that I could not be there for that moment to see you as soon as possible. I could not get anything done at work. Just waiting. Then the call came that Erica Jean was here and she was perfect. I knew that was going to be your middle name. I sure want to believe that your middle name is solely after me, Laura Jean. (We won't mention that is both or your grandmother's middle names.) I then recieved your first picture and can I say that you were beautiful. Everyone I showed said the samething about you. I would hear comments about some newborns not really being cute kids, but you were beautiful, everyone I showed agreed. I could not wait to see you the next day. Little did I know that even though I got to Nashville at 11:00, I was still able to see you that day. You were already loved, but I was able to hold my little niece, and boy was I a proud aunt. As I sat and looked at you, I remember my thoughts being will you know who I am? Will you really know how much I care for you? Since you are so far away will you know that I want to be there to hold you and see you when you start smiling, that I would love to hold you and hear you cry and find a way to soothe you? Do you know that I would love to see you when you start to sit up? I would love to push you in your stroller and as you get older watch you play and run around outside with you. I am afraid though that I will see you just a few times a year and you won't even know who I am. That I will be that, a total stranger to you. But please Erica, know that you are loved and cared for here in the great state of Texas and how I wish I could see you, love you, hug you, and kiss those sweet little cheeks, and rub that precious blond hair. I pray many things for you. I pray that you would grow strong and healthy. I pray that you would be happy and that you will laugh often. Most of all though, I pray that one day you will hear Jesus call your name and you will listen and will follow Him. I pray that even though I am far away that I can be a small example of the love of Christ for you.

Love you lots Erica,

Love and hugs!!!

Aunt Laura

Please Meet.............

2008-10-26T10:59:00.004-05:00

Erica Jean Massey

Born on 08-22-08

2:21 p.m.

Weight: 7 lbs. 9 ozs

Length: 19 in

She is just the sweetest most precious thing I have ever seen. I love her blonde hair and her sweet little hands that stay close to her face. Praise God for this special, precious, gift from God.

Congratulations Russell, Jeanette, and Erica on your new beautiful family.

I'm Back

2008-10-26T10:42:00.002-05:00

Maybe at least for a little bit... Make sure you realize I said MAYBE!! I guess maybe the few people who read this (my parents, my sister-in-law Jeanette, Michelle, Mary, and Jessica) have questioned if and when I am going to add some more to my blog. I keep thinking I need to add stuff and I have things I want to tell people. I think I started thinking my blog was VERY egocentric and I got tired of writing about myself only. I think I was really realizing how uninteresting and boring I am. I guess that is the purpose of it is to write about what is going on in the author's life. At least most of my friends have cute pictures and funny stories of their kids. Those of you who want to read about me continue to read, to the rest of you who decide to keep reading, I am sorry for boring you to tears at times.

Before She is Here

2008-08-16T23:21:00.003-05:00

As I was sitting in church tonight I suddenly got overwhelmed with the fact that by this time next week my sweet little niece will be here. I will be able to hold and love on her. I will see her tiny little fingers and look at her toes. I can't wait to see her eyes and feel her soft skin. Will she have lots of hair? Will she be as big as her daddy was (over 10 pound) or be more petite like her sweet Aunt Laura at 9 pounds 14 oz? Will her hair be blond or even curly? Will she know how much I love her? Will she know how much she has been prayed for? Will she know that she was loved by so many before she was even born?

Less than a week.....

***If she is not here before the 22nd then she will born on that day and I fly out super late that night just to see her. My camera will be in overload. I am just so thankful to have someone else to love. I will for sure post pictures when she gets here.

Hunter of a Gatherer

2008-07-19T17:09:00.004-05:00

I am not a lover of shopping and definitely have not ever considered myself a hunter when I shop. If I go to the mall or a shopping center, I go with a purpose... I need new jeans, shoes, makeup, whatever and I am going to find that one thing and get it and leave. BUT the other day I started as a hunter and became a gatherer in one store. I went with the purpose to find a Baby Gap and find some really cute jeans for my soon to arrive niece. Well, my trusty friend Michelle knew that there was a Baby Gap Outlet at the Allen Outlet Mall and she was more than willing to take me there. We went there and I was thrilled when I saw a Gap Outlet also close by. You see, I have not always been a Gap fan. I have always thought it was too expensive. Then at Christmas time, I was given a 40% off your entire purchase coupon and I decided to use it and got some new pants for work and a new pair of jeans. I feel quickly in love with the clothes I got especially the jeans. I have never gotten so many compliments on a pair of jeans ever and the main thing is the quality is outstanding. I guess I have no reason to complain about my $8 Walmart shirt coming apart quickly or my $20 Old Navy hem coming out. I decided quickly after getting my pants in December that quality is worth spending a little more. ALL THAT TO SAY.... We started off first at The Gap and they had great pants and shirts that were on sale off the already outlet price. I walked through the store picked up a couple of things at the very front and decided I needed a trusty mesh bag. Michelle decided to hold my bag for me and I officially became a gatherer. I gathered 7 work pants, 1 pair of jeans, 7 new shirts, and two lip glosses!!! I just kept adding to the bag. Never have I gotten so much on a whim, but I knew that in a few weeks I would need some back to school clothes. The total of all the new clothes was $160.00 OH by the way I never try clothes on and everything fit perfectly when I got home!!! My mind is NOT ready for school to start but I think my wardrobe is. THANKS FOR THE FUN DAY OF SHOPPING MICHELLE!!!

AND BY THE WAY: The thing I was hunting for was accomplished as well at the Baby Gap!!!!

Mindgames

2008-07-16T19:58:00.003-05:00

I went to boot camp today and our first task was to run 2 miles. I then remembered there had been a reason that I had been finding an excuse to miss working out on Wednesday because the pattern lately has been that we run a lot on Wednesday. If you know even a little bit, you know that I am not a runner, never have been, probably never will be. But I am been doing this fitness boot camp for little over a year fairly regularly. We run a mile at the beginning of the each 5 week session to "test" and at the end to "test" again and see improvement. (I also have gotten pretty good at figuring out which days those are and "missing" those as well I am sure for a good reason)

Now, let me brag on myself a little bit, when I did my first mile last year, I did not even make it around the first lap without stopping and my time was well over 14 minutes. Well, my goal for a while has been to make it under 10 minutes. I have been hovering above 10 minutes for a while and my goal has been to get under 10 minutes for sometime. Monday we ran it again and finally I did it in 9 minutes 42 seconds. YEAH ME!!! Now I guess next goal is to make in under 9 minutes 30 seconds.

The whole reason for the title: You think that since I have been doing this running for a while, that it would get to the point where I enjoy running and running is fun, and maybe even easier. NOPE not fun, not enjoyable, and certainly not easy. I have though decided, that in order for me to "run" the whole time, I have to play mind games with myself. One of my favorite subjects to teach in school is fractions. I make fractions in my head as I run and reduce them (I know WEIRDO please don't judge!!!) Whatever it takes though, to make it without stopping. I do crazy scenerios in my head, have conversations with myself. If I can think it while "running" I think it. NOW, I must admit I did not make it the full 2 miles without stopping, I probably did about 1 and 3/4 of it (my fractions come in handy) without stopping. I know I will make it to the full 2 soon!!!!

Maybe I can inspire some, if I can do this workout thing and stay up with it and run, then really I believe anyone can do it. I certainly go though slumps where I just do not want to go. I take some time off then, I get through it and get motivated again. I still really do not enjoy the hour, but sure do feel good when I am done.

From my first session of boot camp!!!

As we say at the end 1,2,3 BOOT CAMP!!!

Nashville Here I Come

2008-07-15T19:52:00.003-05:00

I bought my tickets to go to Nashville on August 22. What is so special about the 22 of August? Is it important because it is the Friday before school starts and the night of meet the teacher? NOPE!!!! Is it because I love being gone the weekend before school starts (exspecialy with moving into a brand new classroom and spanking new building) and thus forcing myself to be done with everything without having the weekend? NOT CORRECT EITHER (But this idea does stress me out a little so if you could pray for me get stuff done in my room that would be awesome) That is the day that my sweet little niece will for sure be here. She will either be born by then or will be born on that day. I cannot wait to meet her and hug my sister in law Jeanette. This has been such an incredible, long journey and it will be such a joy to finally hold this baby. I already find that I am getting kinda emotional just thinking about seeing her little face, counting her tiny toes and fingers, holding her, just being able to love on her.
For those of you who may not totally know the history, Russell and Jeanette have had four miscarriages and as they describe four profound disappointments. They found out they were expecting right before they came to Texas for Christmas. I remember being very happy to hear that there was another chance but totally in fear of a 5th disappointment. When they got to Texas they had to do some blood work here. (Something about numbers doubling.) While they were here we found out that the number more than doubled. This was the first of good news after good news about the baby. Before they even got here, Jeanette was already doing daily heparin shots in her abdomen plus having pregesterone daily as well and has done this everyday since they found out she was pregnant. People who know and love Jeanette and out family have been in prayer for a strong, healthy baby. Thank you for all the prayers, keep praying in these final weeks. As they said and requested,

"We hope you’ll pray with us that God would bless us with this indescribable gift."

Russell and Jeanette at Christmas

Can't wait to see you in August!!!

Thank You Mr. Plano Cop

2008-07-14T22:43:00.003-05:00

Tonight I was on my way to celebrate 3 friend's birthday. (HAPPY BIRTHDAY MEHGAN, MARCUS, and JOE) I had just turned down the street where the restraunt was when I saw flashing lights in the in my rear view mirror. OH CRAP!!! I know that my registration is out on my car so I am thinking great, double tickets. The nicest cop I have ever met ask me if I know that my registration is out. Honestly, I told him that I knew, the 20th is my pay day and I was going to take care of it then (Yes dad, I can see you shaking your head at me and see your disappointed eyes focusing on me) I show him my license and my insurance. The kicker, he lets me know that my insurance expired as well 4 days earlier. (Yes, dad I can see you again) My thoughts for sure I am getting ticketed now if there was a chance that this would just be a warning has disappeared. No, this guy just tells me to take of it ASAP and he just wanted to make sure I was aware that it was expired. I have been pulled over 3 times before and have never gotten just a warning just the big ticket, BUT thank you Mr. Plano cop for the warning and I WILL take care of this situation tomorrow, not even wait until the 20th.

By the way, one question, How can nice Mr. Cop see that my registration sticker is out from behind me?

Well, Maybe Not

2008-07-07T00:13:00.002-05:00

The other day I was buying a house, today I am not. I opted out of the contract before the ten day active option was up. I really was totally not at peace about this house after the inspection. I did have my realtor send a repair request to the sellers. The only thing she said she had heard from the other realtor is that she was kinda overwhelmed by the number of repairs we requested. We did even ask for everything to be fixed. We did ask for them to fix the chimney, repair the stove, microwave, and dishwasher, have electrician come out and make sure everything was up to code, BUT there was still lots of things we did not ask for. It was truly an overwhelming list. I had my dad look at it and he supported me still buying the house if I wanted, but I could tell that he was concerned. He did say he and my mom would help out with things if need be. That did not matter though because, because I had just been a nervous wreck about it since the inspection Wed. I spent a ton of time praying and asking for peace about it. It never came until I wrote the email to my realtor explaining my situation. (Honestly, I do feel bad because she has given me a lot of her time and really do not want to let her down.) After I wrote it and hit send, I felt like the weight lifted off my shoulders. I not at all concerned about the amount of money I spent on the inspection, or the $50 I will lose for canceling the contract.
I am not sure what my next plan is. I may check with my apartments for a month to month option, or a six month lease. I am confident in the decision I have made to cancel this and wait and see what there may or may not be. I'm totally trusting the decisions I have made, and believing that God is real and gives ultimate discernment in situation when he is sought after. So thankful that He cares even for the least of these, me.

Happy Belated 81st Birthday Mamaw

2008-07-03T22:52:00.003-05:00

To one of the strongest women I know!!!
I hope to leave even half of the legacy as you have left some day
on my family, friends, and community!!!

Love ya Mamaw!!!!

Happy Belated 61st Birthday Daddy!!!!

2008-07-03T22:14:00.004-05:00

As a little girl I hung on Daddy's shoulder.

And as an adult his shoulder is still there!!!

Daddy, thanks for having such strong shoulders!!!

Happy Birthday Daddy.....sorry this is late!!!!

Just One of My Favorite Family Pictures Ever

2008-07-03T22:09:00.003-05:00

We were and are just an adorable family!!!!!!

Inspection Nightmare

2008-07-02T17:44:00.002-05:00

So I have always heard that home inspections will tell you every single tiny little problem there may be. As little as tightening a screw to if a strong wind come your chimney may be blown off. We'll today I heard the latter. The chimney is in danger, the dishwasher, stove and microwave do not work properly. Wiring is not great everywhere. The great jetted tub does not work. That is only a few things that he told me about. Really this is one of those things that if most of the stuff is not fixed, this will be a big time deal breaker and if I do not get this house then I do not think I am going to pull the trigger at all with a house this summer. Maybe this is a sign from God that I am not ready for this. I have really felt at peace about this whole thing till now. The stress is just getting to me and it just easier to sign another lease with this lousy apartment complex (even though my rent is going up $120.00.) I'll see in the days to come what will happen with this whole house thing.

Maybe Not So Disappointing

2008-07-01T18:05:00.004-05:00

So guess what I did??? I did sign papers for a house. SERIOUSLY!!! Let me just tell the excitement quickly turned to horror and fear. What the begeevies have I done?? I have until July 7th to back out and change my mind. Love the house!! It is great. Location is perfect for me, layout is excellent, price is perfect. Closing is officially set for July 24. CRAZINESS!!!! I am trying to figure out how to post pictures, but am having issues. Hopefully they are to come!!!.

A Disappointing Journey???

2008-06-22T19:06:00.003-05:00

One of the first houses I looked at I fell in love with. I knew right away, it was a price that was in my teeny tiny range, it was in a great location for very me, but before I turned around, it was gone. I have dragged my realtor to look at several other houses found another that I liked, then like the first one, of course it was gone before I was able to do anything about it. I think that this is when I decided that this was going to be a disappointing journey for me. Now there is the house on Helen. I do not get real estate. What the heck is a short sale? In my limited understanding of the English vocabulary, short means a little amount. So a short sale sounds like something that would go very quickly. My relator seems to indicate that this could take any where from a few weeks to a couple of months and that is not guarantee that I will get the house. So we are keeping the offer in, but continuing to seek other home. We looked at another today that I really liked. Best thing by far was the kitchen. It is older than maybe what I dreamed, a lot of it has been redone, lots of nice tiling, laminate flooring and what carpet is there is new. So I have told Cheryl to find out what she can and maybe this one will be it. I guess, I also do not really understand the market and how this is a buyers market. Wish I understood the whole thing a little more. Maybe my journey that I called disappointing will be over soon than later.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MICHELLE!!!

2008-06-21T13:10:00.007-05:00

Just wanted to wish my dear friend Michelle a happy birthday!! Michelle is truly a great friend who always take the time to call just to talk and see how I am doing and just cares about me. Hope you had a great day. There are pictures of us and some other friends.

Behind with Celebrations

2008-06-19T12:52:00.008-05:00

JUNE 13-Mom's 60th birthday!!!!
Friday June 13th was mom's 60th birthday. I am thrilled that her and dad came to town and we got to go to one of her favorite places, Outback Steakhouse and it was delish!!! Mom and dad also looked at a house I am interested in buying and put their sill of approval on it. I am not sure about everyone else, but it is great to have mom and dad's approval when doing something like that. (Now that being said, I have not heard much about my offer, my realtor said that it is short sale and those can take some time. I am told by others I need some patience, but I am kinda on a time line with my lease being up on July 1st)
HAPPY BIRTHDAY MOM I HOPE YOU HAD A FABULOUS DAY!!!!

JUNE 15- HAPPY FATHER'S DAY--Dad, Papike and Russell!!!!

Dad you are awesome, I hope you had a great day, and I was really sad that I did not get to see you on that day! Thanks for being understanding. You know I have always believed if I can find some guys half as great as I think you are, I will have a treasure. I l love knowing that I am and being daddy's little girl!!!

Happy father's day to my awesome grandfather Papike. If you ever ask him about me he will tell you that I am his favorite granddaughter. (No it does not matter that I am his only granddaughter) I still eat that up when he says that. Love you Papike and blessing to you.

Finally Happy Father's Day to my favorite father to be, my brother, Russell!!! I cannot wait for the day that my little niece comes into this world. What an exciting journey!!! I pray for continued blessing during this pregnancy and that the good news continues. Looking forward to August!!!

This is just a picture that I love that was taken at Christmas that has my mom, dad, Papike, and Russell in it. Of course me, John, Aaron, and Jeanette are in the picture as well.

The End of Another School Year

2008-06-07T12:38:00.010-05:00

Another school year has come to an end. I might would say one of the most challenging years I have had. If every year was like this, I can see why the average number of years that a teacher teaches is only 7 years. (At least that is what have heard.) It so strange to enjoy a groups of kids so much, but also to feel like I have lived a year of such great frustrations. I end worried that I have not been the best teacher for some, know that I have been just what some kids needed, and kinda indifferent about others. I leave worried that middle school will eat these kids alive. Wondering if they will find someone who will care about there souls and spirits as much as I do. Concerned that they will just kinda be forgotten about. But also hopeful in the knowledge that I have prepared the as much as possible, believing that I have given them my best, and knowing that they are going to an awesome middle school. In case you do not know many of worries come from the fact that my class is an ESL class (English as a Second Language) so school is just kinda tough for them. They are not proficient in the English language, though their expectation is just the same as every other kid in the great state of Texas.

Though this year has been a challenge, I still love my job. I am blessed with this job when I am able to truly make a difference in this population of kids. Some of these guys have never been successful in school and success does come. It is different type of success for each kid.

I am truly excited about the summer and some time off, but I know that when August comes I will be ready to get back to work, with great expectations of another great year.

HERE ARE SOME OF MY FAVORITE PICTURES FROM THE YEAR:

I Am A Quitter

2008-05-29T21:59:00.002-05:00

That's right, call me a quitter or a dropout. I will be the first to tell you if I am not good at something, I quit. Go ahead and tell me I am not giving it a chance, but I have discontinued my eharmony account. I gave it a chance, I gave it 5 months. That is long enough. It did get annoying to be "closed" by people who would say they were pursuing another relationship. Then may I ask you idiot guy, why are you still receiving matches? Why am I being matched with the guys between the age 40-45? That is a little too much of an age difference. I also decided it was not much of a self esteem booster anyways. Constant closing, little to not interest (except from some of the older gentlemen.) Really a waste of my time and money. I mean really the people they show on TV have to be paid cause I did not experience even a partial of what is advertised. I get the same news from my friends who have done. To me it just reiterated how very shallow many guys are. I would rather not be out there in cyberspace anymore. Please I do not think I really want to hear how great it was for and how everything worked out great for you. Just know that I do not mind be called a quitter.

$1,078

2008-05-19T21:35:00.004-05:00

SERIOUSLY!!!! $1,078!!!! Car repair!!!! Stimulus check (and much more) here and gone in less than 3 days!!!

Last week I did something I very rarely do and missed school for absolutely no reason. (It was really kinda just to be spiteful but I am not going to fully explain that here) My very pregnant friend Kara had been on very restrictive bed rest for a little over a week and was given freedom to move about in fairly normal activity, just could not return to work, so I went to her house and we went to lunch. She commented on how loud my car was running and I blew her off saying that it is just kinda a loud car. I was not able to forget what she said and kept noticing that it was loud, but kept being hopeful that it would be nothing. (Yet another example of me being an avoidance person.) Mom and dad though were in town for the weekend and of course I decided I had to ask him to listen to the noise. He did and said I needed to get it into the shop the next morning at the latest and it sounded like it could be a transmission issue. SOUNDED EXPENSIVE and SCARY! So I left it at the local car dealership and waited and waited for the dreaded phone call. They finally called and she starts will good news it is not the transmission, but is something like a hub, not sure what it is, but she made it sound very important for my safety. (Something like it is what connects the wheel and the axle and if it totally breaks my tire could come flying off when I am driving down the highway.) She quoted me a repair of $598. I'm thinking perfect amount, the total stimulus check, awesome, money I did not expect anyways. Then the nice lady continue you also need this and that repair and your total will be $1,078 even. AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!! NO WAY!!!! ARE YOU KIDDING!!!!!!!!!!
OK so let's think about this find the positives..... The car is in its 7th year of life, it does have about 120,000 miles and I have had very little work done, I have not made a payment on it is two years, it has been a good car and I hope it will remain a good vehicle for at least a year to come! So there goes my stimulus check times two. If anyone is willing to send me theirs as well, you would bless my socks off and I will be very thankful:) I am thankful to have the car and the resources to take care of the car repairs. Hope everyone else day was less expensive than mine!!

Communities In School

2008-05-18T21:11:00.012-05:00

Can I say enough great things about this organization? First of all, it truly shows love to our kids. It has the ability to care for them in so many ways. It can provide mentors, uniforms, food, school supplies, help for families with other social services in the community, ect, ect. I can not name all of the services. I can remember last year telling one of our social workers, Mary, "Thanks for loving my kids almost
(above me and Ms. Mary)as much as I do." I totally meant that, but there are many times that I think Mary loves my students more than I do. She calms me when I frustrated with the kids, helps me with the needs that I think that they have, helps me visit with parents, delivers food bags when my students forget them, more, and more, and more things that I can't remember or even know about.
Let me rewind to a couple of weeks ago, Mary came to me very excited. She said that she had nominated me for CIS teacher of the year and I was voted by the staff as the winner. WHAT??? Still not exactly sure why, and not completely convinced that I am deserving, but I am honored with this award. (MOM, DAD, and ME pictured to the right)
Last night was the gala where I received the award. Mom and dad were able to come. It was all done up very nicely. There was something called the Gallery of Successes and this really nice wall done in my honor. There was a little paragraph written about me, a quote from Mr. Crockett, my principal, a picture of me and a student, and a letter that a student wrote to me also. Dad took at picture of the wall with his camera and maybe I can add it later. It was truly amazing and very honoring.
(MARY, MR. CROCKETT, and ME)
It was a fun night with great food, music, and casino games. There was a little silent auction. Mom bid and won something and Mr. Crockett won something for me!!!. Thank you Jimmy!!! How fun!!!

A great big thank you to CIS for getting the community involved in the lives of our students and meeting their needs. Thank you partnering with me to help the precious children and for finding ways to help. You amaze me with the help and care that you provide.

Visit cisnt.org to find out how you too can serve the kids all over our community.

PREAPPROVED!!!!

2008-05-14T20:03:00.002-05:00

So I have talked about wanting to buy a house for a couple of years and really saw it as something impossible. I guess I really always thought that it was something I would do when I got married. Since that seem less and less realistic with every year that passes, I decided not wait on such things, but to go for it on my own. I am just tired of waiting to do the things I always thought I would do. I have a good friend of mine who has been encouraging all this time I have been talking about it. When I doubt this idea is even close to being a good one, she reassures me that yes I can do this. Since we have talked about it for so long, and she has confronted me about being an avoidance person, last week I finely decided to go an see a broker. Since I knew the broker from years ago when I babysat for her, I felt very comfortable. I could not believe what an EASY process it was. Just give her a little info and BAM preapproval, quick and easy. Last night mom was in town and she went with me to actually look at houses. Boy did that make it seem real. I feel like I am becoming a grown up, independent, women all at once. I am still not completely clear on the process and how it totally works, but I will learn! My lease is up July 31 so I am hopeful that I will be in my own house by then. I will let everyone in on my journey as it continues.

Mother's Day in Commerce

2008-05-12T19:46:00.009-05:00

First and foremost Happy Mother's Day to my awesome mom. My mom is for sure one of those my moms that thinks her imperfect, selfish children have hung the sun, moon, and stars. We are truly loved by her there is no doubt about it. Love you so much mom, hope you had a great day!!!!
Also, Happy Mother's to my dad's mom, Mamaw. What an awesome lady she is! There are so many reason why I love her. She is just such an excellent example of a Godly women who loves her family dearly. She loved my Papaw like crazy and was a true example of the vow in sickness and in health. She and my Papaw raised four sons whom, by some of the stories they have told, gave them a run form their money. A few weeks ago I heard my grandmother mention that she wanted a new wagon. So that is what I got her for mother's day. She is not always very easy to buy for, but she LOVED this gift. I could really tell that she was excited about it. She said that her and Papaw had a wagon that lasted through their boys, then they had another one that lasted through the grandchildren, and now this one should last through the great grandchildren. I think I did aggravate my father when I told him he had to put it together. Needless to say he did not seem pleased and I got "that look". But as the pictures will show, daddy read the directions, and with his handy assistance (me) we got it put together. Then I offered to give Mamaw a ride in it and she insisted on giving me a ride instead. It seems to be a pretty good, strong wagon. It was sure fun to give it her.

So Here I Go

2008-05-03T13:38:00.000-05:00

For a while I have thought about doing a blog. I have considered will anyone care or want to read about me and my life? (Actually I think my big fear though is affirming that NO ONE does truly care about what is going on with me) Will I have anything remotely interesting to say especially since I am not at all a creative writer? Does anything exciting ever happen in my life that is intriguing to anyone else?? I truly think not. I did ask some friends if they would read it and have received affirmatives that they at least would. Will I be one of those people that doesn't not update for months at a time? Hoping that will not be the case for me. I am hoping that people will care about what I write. That my heart will be out there and maybe this will help some understand who I am. I hope that I am able to find encouragement from others and reconnect with some friends whose blogs that I read. Please know that if this is read there maybe too much stuff said about my teaching. (This is where some of funniest/most frustrating stories come from) I may not always write with a positive attitude, but I will try. I have a great love for my family and what some of even my closest friends may not even know about me is that I am a dreamer. (Not always good at attacking or going after them, but I do dream!!!) I do have some things that I think are exciting going on in my life and will leave those for a future post. (MAYBE!!!)