Living With Lupus

It feels like I've been so busy lately. It's not a physical busy, but a mental busy. Which can be just as bad a physical busy. Either way, they both send me into a lupus flareup.

Yes, I'm having another flareup. URGH!!! I dislike getting flareups. I'm no good to anyone when I get sick. I've been putting off journaling about what's going on with me. I guess I kept thinking if I didn't mention it, then it would cease to exist. But that's not the case. The reason I'm sharing it is mainly to help other "lupies" out there, who might stumble upon my journal. But also to enlighten those that know nothing about lupus.

Lupus is something one can't control. It's not contagious. It's not something that goes away if ignored. Only God can cure it, if that's His will. I have lupus, not because of something that I've done or because of my lack of faith. To tell you the truth, I'm glad that it's me that has it and not a loved one. Should God choose to cure me, I'll be thankful. Should he choose not to cure me, I'll be thankful too. Nothing I go through could compare to what He went through for me (and you).

Now, lupus is an autoimmune disease. I have systemic lupus erythematosus which is the most common and most serious type. I should mention that lupus flareups get worse during a woman's cycle too. Lately, it has decided to "attack" an area of my body that well, has been causing lots of problems. I have been putting off seeing a specialist about it. Mainly because I knew what I was going to be told and I didn't want to "hear" it. I also hoped that it would go away on it's own. But that has not been the case. It's gotten worse. Lupus can manifest itself in many ways in different parts of the body. For now it has chosen to cause trouble with my veins. Not just any vein, but the ones in an area that no one likes to even talk about... yep... the ones in the pelvic and rectal area. URGH!!! There I said it! I won't mention it again, cause just the thought of it makes me wince.

I know that it doesn't help that I don't eat things that are good for you. In fact, I eat everything that isn't good for you. I have an aversion to most vegetables. Lets put it this way, I only eat, potatoes, corn, sweet potatoes, carrot (only with dip), lettuce and tomatoes. I know tomato is a fruit, but I count it as a vegetable, otherwise my list would be too short! I enjoy eating pizza and hamburgers. I love Italian and Cuban cuisine. I don't like chicken. I prefer to eat ground beef and steaks. I only eat turkey once a year... yep... on Thanksgiving and ONLY on that day, not even when it's left over. I have a sweet tooth. I would rather eat dessert than eat breakfast, lunch or dinner.

I have started eating better though. I bought a book called, Deceptively Delicious by Jessica Seinfeld. I had seen it in the bookstore, but I didn't like the title. I did like the picture cause it looked old fashioned and I'm into old fashion. :o) Some would call it "retro" but I like old fashioned better. Any way, some of the ladies on the homeschool support group I belong to were talking about it. So I decided to look through the book. I ended up getting it. It's got some wonderful recipes. Recipes that I would even eat. This book has helped me get started on eating more vegetables, even if I'm hiding them from myself! I thought that it would make a difference in my lupus flareups, but it hasn't. I've been assured that it isn't because of anything I've done or haven't done. It's not because I've had 6 pregnancies. It's not because I drink too much coke. It's not because of eating greasy food. It's not because of not eating all my vegetables. People with lupus can't control where it decides to "attack". So those of you that have lupus, keep up with your check ups. Just because you are feeling well doesn't mean you should stop taking your medications (which is something that I'm known for). I have learned my lesson, but now I'm paying the price.

So, I will be having surgery in about a week. Recovery will be 6-8 weeks. I'm not sure when I'll be online once I have my surgery. Maybe I can sweet talk my Soaring Amongst The Clouds into sharing her laptop with me. ;o) No seriously, please pray for my family. I know this will not be easy on them. They are such troopers. They have been through so much with me already.

When You Least Expect It

The Seamstress is not one to give compliments flippantly. So when one is given... well, she must really mean it.

For the past three days, I've been not been feeling well. Yesterday, I spent most of my day in bed sleeping. Well except for having gone out to get some lab work done and stopping at Wal-Mart for milk and gassing up our car. By the time I got home, everyone was done with their school work, the Christmas decorations had been put away and the Castello had been dusted and vacuumed.

Today I woke up around 11:30a. By that time, The Warrior was almost done with his school work. G.I. Joe was sitting quietly at the dinner table doing his work. Daughter of the King was up in her room reading, Boy Meets Girl by Joshua Harris. Soaring Amongst The Clouds had just arrived from classes at LS. I had some hot chocolate and went to lay down on our couch. The Seamstress looked at me and said, "You have such wonderful children. They love each other so much. They help each other out and play so well together. It's easy to see that you and your Knight have devoted yourselves to raising them." I thanked her and told her that, "We were both given good examples. Thank you for having and raising my Knight. We have the family we have because of who and what he is. We are raising our children as we feel lead by God to raise them. People might not always agree, but we are not here to please others. We are here to please God."

I meant what I said. I am thankful for the way they raised my Knight. Yes, they were critical and negative. But he learned that he didn't want to be like that. So he didn't follow those footsteps. He did learn good work ethics, good morals, good values and how important family really is.

We are raising our children the way we feel God is leading us to raise them. People don't always agree. We have been told (by friends and family) that we are too strict or we are too lenient. That our children are too sheltered. One family member even told our Fair Maiden that it was ok when you have a boyfriend to let him touch from the waist up, but not from the waist down! But we smile and keep on doing what we feel lead to do. No one is perfect. All we can do is follow God's will for our lives. It's not easy, but it's comforting to know that He is with us, guiding us and helping us. And knowing that, makes it all worthwhile. God is good... ALL the time!

The Courtship Begins... #2

Steps and Daughter of the King are officially courting. Our family and Steps' family went out to lunch today after church. After lunch we all came to our Castello to visit for a while.

Our Squires and One With Nature (Steps' youngest brother) went upstairs to play video games. Soaring Amongst The Clouds retired to her room to study. Still Waters retired to her room to draw. Which gave Steps' the opportunity to talk with us. He asked permission to court our Fair Maiden. His parents, my Knight and I sat and talked with Steps and Daughter of the King. After a lengthy talk, permission was granted for them to court. May God bless their journey together.

I've Been Tagged... Quirkiness x 6 = Me, I Guess

Quirkiness x 6 = me, I guess, is the name of the tag. For those that know me, you'll find this a little amusing. I was tagged by a new blog visitor... Ms. Giselle. What do you think about that? :o)

Ok, in this tag you share 6 quirky or weird things about yourself. Easy as pie. Well, we all know that making a good pie is anything BUT easy. So... good luck coming up with six quirkiness. :o)

The Rules~

1. Link to the person that tagged you.
2. Post the rules on your blog.
3. Share six non important bizarre things/quirk/habits about yourself.
4. Tag six other people, link to their blogs and let them know by posting a comment on their blog.

Here goes...

1. I wear absolutely no make up. None! My Knight says I'm beautiful without it. That's enough for me. :o) Well, does cocoa butter lip balm count?

2. The t.v. control only belongs to... me! The moment I sit on the couch, and someone else has the control, they toss it to me. :o) If no one has it, it's sitting in the basket next to my seat on the couch.

3. I'm OCD about public bathroom. I have to be DYING to use one. EWWWWWW GROSS! Just the thought of it give me the hibby gibbies!

4. If I'm home, you'll find me in my pj's. I'll only dress up if I have to go out. Pj's are way comfy!

5. I don't take showers... I take baths. :o)

6. An M-16 was nicknamed after me. My Knight was in the Army back in the early 1980's. They were told to name their weapon. They had to take good care of it too, hence the name. I love my man!

Now let's see, who will I tag?

Soaring Amongst The Clouds
Still Waters
Daughter of the King
Tiffany
Bonnie
Emily

Ok, now you all be nice and do the tag. :o) Oh, I decided not to tag my other friends cause well, cause I've never tagged these six. I figured they are due. :o)

Thought And Scripture For The Day

I thought I'd share my devotion for today.

Thought for the Day...
If there is something you desire in life, look to Jesus to help you bring it to pass. And while He is working on it, remember to find pleasure in what He has already given you!

Scripture for the Day...
Be content with such things as ye have.
-Hebrews 13:5


No Future In The Past

The man looked a little worried when the doctor came in to
administer his annual physical, so the first thing the doctor did
was to ask whether anything was troubling him.

"Well, to tell the truth, Doc, yes," answered the patient. "You
see, I seem to be getting forgetful. No, it's actually worse than
that. I can never remember where I park my car, where I'm going,
or what it is I'm going to do once I get there -- if I get there.
So, I really need your help. What can I do?"

The doctor mused for a moment, then answered kindly, "Pay me in
advance."

Actually, forgetfulness isn't all bad...especially when we decide
to forget all that pain from the past that threatens to ruin the
present. Like one song says, "There ain't no future in the past."

The past is to be remembered -- how else will we learn from it
and keep from repeating it? But why would I want to remember
every time I felt hurt because of my spouse, my children, my
friends, my boss or anybody else? Why would I want to fill my mind
with a detailed catalogue of past pain? Better to remember the times
they brought me joy or love or feelings of warmth. Unfortunately, even those wonderful and magical moments too easily fade away.

A friend of Clara Barton, founder of the American Red Cross,
asked her about a particular traumatic event in her life. Miss
Barton seemed perplexed.

"Can't you remember?" the friend prodded.

Clara Barton replied, "I distinctly remember forgetting it."

Dwell on the past -- but not the negative past, not the pain of
the past nor the sadness. Dwell on the good. Be consumed by past
joys and obsessed with gratitude. Dwell upon the moments that
uplifted you, the times you laughed and the memories of love
shown to you by friends and family.

Not everything should be remembered, and those who live well know
what to forget and what to cherish. Like the song says, "There
ain't no future in the past." But there IS joy there. And love.
And kindness...if we choose to remember.

-- Steve Goodier


I know that my family jokingly tells me I have a Pollyanna view. I jokingly tell them I love my Pollyanna world. But all kidding aside, I choose to not dwell on the sadness, my heartaches or my pains. I remember them, but that's it. I choose to focus on the good, the happy times, the love, the kindness and the fun times. Dwelling on the bad, does me and those around me no good.

A Visit To The Happy Place

You must be wondering where is this "happy place"? Well... Disney World. LOL! Soaring Amongst The Clouds coined it that a couple of years ago. Yesterday we spent the day with our friends at... The Happy Place.

First off, we thought that Soaring Amongst The Clouds and Still Waters weren't going to be able to go. Soaring Amongst The Clouds had classes until lunchtime. Still Waters was working all day. But... God had other plans. :o) Soaring Amongst The Clouds class was canceled. Still Waters worked extra hours the day before our trip and is going to work extra hours today. Still Water left with us yesterday morning. Soaring Amongst The Clouds met up with us later on.

Well let's see... we started our day at MGM Studios. Ooops, I forgot to mention who went with us. My bad. The Mechanic, Jewels, The Sub, Steps and One With Nature spent the day with us. Since we have all been to The Happy Place before, we hit the places our friends wanted to go first. So while at MGM Studios, we rode The Tower of Terror, Rocking Roller Coaster and Star Tours. Our wait time for the rides were less than 15 minutes. It was great! By the time we were done, it was lunch time. We tailgated! LOL! Which is what we usually do. It gets pretty expensive to eat in the parks, remember we are a family of 7! Then it was off to Animal Kingdom. Where of course we rode Mt. Everest and the Kali River Rapids. I had no desire to be wet the rest of the day, so I chose not to ride the rapids. We also walked through the Bird Sanctuary and also the section where they have all the tigers, gorillas and all those animals. I've already forgotten what that section is called. LOL! Our last stop was The Magic Kingdom. The main attractions we hit were, Space Mountain, Buzz Light Year, Thunder Mountain, Pirates of the Caribbean and The Haunted Mansion. I declined Space Mountain, Buzz Light Year and The Haunted Mansion. I was one tired puppy! The waiting time was less than 15 minutes for all rides except Thunder Mountain. That one the sign read 30 minutes, but we waited almost an hour. That was HORRENDOUS! Splash Mountain was being refurbished for our future pleasure. :o) While we were riding the ferry boat to the main entrance, we got a perfect view to the fireworks. It was a great loooooonnnnnngggggg day! :o) Did I mention I was one tired puppy?



We are in line to ride Mt. Everest. We really didn't have to wait much. I love roller coaster rides. I've been told not to ride them cause of the chiari. I ride them as long as it doesn't jar me around too much. but I don't think I'll be riding this one again. I have a shunt and I kept hitting that area in the back of my head. It didn't feel good. Next time around, I'll have to pass this one over. :o(


Jewels and I waiting in line. I'm really blessed by her friendship. She accepts me warts and all. That's just a figure of speech, I don't have any "real" warts. But you know what I mean...



My Knight and our Fair Maidens. I love this picture. Just yesterday, they were holding onto to daddy's hand, sitting on his shoulders, clinging on to him. Sweet memories...



A Knight and His Lady... be still my heart...




The Mechanic and His Jewel.




The only four crazy people to ride Kali River Rapids: my Knight, G.I. Joe, The Warrior and One with Nature. One with Nature is the one holding his hands up. The boys went back and rode it a second time. Since there were no lines, they were allowing guests to ride it over and over if they chose to. Which of course, my Knight chose not to. :o)



Soaring Amongst The Clouds sporting the t-shirt Airman G gave her. I wonder what she thought about all day, or should I say "who".



Still Waters and her mama. She will always be my itty bitty girl. We are so different, but we enjoy and value each other's differences.



Daughter of the King and Steps. I wonder what they are talking about?



Lady G and her Fair Maidens. I LOVE my girls! I'm so blessed that I've been able to enjoy them EVERY step of the way. God is good... ALL the time!



Last picture of the day. Can you believe there were 12 in our group! Every time they'd ask us in a ride, "How many in your group?", they would scramble to try to fit us all in. LOL!

All in all we had a wonderful time. Can't wait to do it again... next year! :o)

Do You Know Your Beloved's Love Language?

Quite some time (years) ago, I read a book called, The Five Love Languages by Gary Chapman. I found it very interesting and helpful. He also wrote, The Five Love Languages of Children and The Five Love Languages of Teenagers. But I don't have those. I figured that it really can't be that different.

When I read this book, it opened my eyes. It helped me to express my love to my loved ones in a way that they needed. For years I was showing my for my Knight in physical touch and words of affirmation. I realized (years later) that his love language was mainly acts of service. It doesn't mean that the other types of expressing my love didn't work, cause it did work. But acts of service really speaks to him. I've applied what I've learned to my children too. But, just like spiritual gifts change, so does the love language. I think it's time for me to read this book again and get... "reconnected" with my loved ones. :o) Oh, just in case you are wondering, one doesn't have to be just one type of love language, we all have a little of every language. It's just that one might speak louder than the others. Mine is Quality Time and Physical Touch comes in close second. Which one are you?



Words of Affirmation

Mark Twain once said “I can live for two months on a good compliment.” Verbal appreciation speaks powerfully to persons whose primary Love Language is “Words of Affirmation.” Simple statements, such as, “You look great in that suit,” or “You must be the best baker in the world! I love your oatmeal cookies,” are sometimes all a person needs to hear to feel loved.

Aside from verbal compliments, another way to communicate through “Words of Affirmation” is to offer encouragement. Here are some examples: reinforcing a difficult decision; calling attention to progress made on a current project; acknowledging a person’s unique perspective on an important topic. If a loved one listens for “Words of Affirmation,” offering encouragement will help him or her to overcome insecurities and develop greater confidence.


Quality Time

Quality time is more than mere proximity. It’s about focusing all your energy on your mate. A husband watching sports while talking to his wife is NOT quality time. Unless all of your attention is focused on your mate, even an intimate dinner for two can come and go without a minute of quality time being shared.

Quality conversation is very important in a healthy relationship. It involves sharing experiences, thoughts, feelings and desires in a friendly, uninterrupted context. A good mate will not only listen, but offer advice and respond to assure their mate they are truly listening. Many mates don’t expect you to solve their problems. They need a sympathetic listener.

An important aspect of quality conversation is self-revelation. In order for you to communicate with your mate, you must also be in tune with your inner emotions. It is only when you understand your emotions and inner feelings will you then be able to share quality conversation, and quality time with your mate.

Quality activities are a very important part of quality time. Many mates feel most loved when they spend physical time together, doing activities that they love to do. Spending time together will bring a couple closer, and, in the years to come, will fill up a memory bank that you can reminisce about in the future.
Whether it’s sitting on the couch and having a brief conversation or playing together in a tennis league, quality time is a love language that is shared by many. Setting aside focused time with your mate will ensure a happy marriage.


Receiving Gifts

Some mates respond well to visual symbols of love. If you speak this love language, you are more likely to treasure any gift as an expression of love and devotion. People who speak this love language often feel that a lack of gifts represents a lack of love from their mate. Luckily, this love language is one of the easiest to learn.

If you want to become an effective gift giver, many mates will have to learn to change their attitude about money. If you are naturally a spender, you will have no trouble buying gifts for your mate. However, a person who is used to investing and saving their money may have a tough time adjusting to the concept of spending money as an expression of love. These people must understand that you are investing the money not in gifts, but in deepening your relationship with your mate.

The gift of self is an important symbol of love. Sometimes all your mate desires is for someone to be there for them, going through the same trials and experiencing the same things. Your body can become a very powerful physical symbol of love.

These gifts need not to come every day, or even every week. They don’t even need to cost a lot of money. Free, frequent, expensive, or rare, if your mate relates to the language of receiving gifts, any visible sign of your love will leave them feeling happy and secure in your relationship.


Acts of Service

Sometimes simple chores around the house can be an undeniable expression of love. Even simple things like laundry and taking out the trash require some form of planning, time, effort, and energy. Just as Jesus demonstrated when he washed the feet of his disciples, doing humble chores can be a very powerful expression of love and devotion to your mate.

Very often, both pairs in a couple will speak to the Acts of Service Language. However, it is very important to understand what acts of service your mate most appreciates. Even though couples are helping each other around the house, couples will still fight because the are unknowingly communicating with each other in two different dialects. For example, a wife may spend her day washing the cars and walking the dog, but if her husband feels that laundry and dishes are a superior necessity, he may feel unloved, despite the fact that his wife did many other chores throughout the day. It is important to learn your mate’s dialect and work hard to understand what acts of service will show your love.

It is important to do these acts of service out of love and not obligation. A mate who does chores and helps out around the house out of guilt or fear will inevitably not be speaking a language of love, but a language of resentment. It’s important to perform these acts out of the kindness of your heart.

Demonstrating the acts of service can mean stepping out of the stereotypes. Acts of service require both mates to humble themselves into doing some chores and services that aren’t usually expected from their gender. However, these little sacrifices will mean the world to your mate, and will ensure a happy relationship.

Physical Touch

Many mates feel the most loved when they receive physical contact from their partner. For a mate who speaks this love language loudly, physical touch can make or break the relationship.

Sexual intercourse makes many mates feel secure and loved in a marriage. However, it is only one dialect of physical touch. Many parts of the body are extremely sensitive to stimulation. It is important to discover how your partner not only physically responds but also psychologically responds to these touches.

It is important to learn how your mate speaks the physical touch language. Some touches are irritating and uncomfortable for your mate. Take the time to learn the touches your mate likes. They can be big acts, such as back massages or lovemaking, or little acts such as touches on the cheek or a hand on the shoulder. It’s important to learn how your mate responds to touch. That is how you will make the most of this love language.

All marriages will experience crisis. In these cases, physical touch is very important. In a crisis situation, a hug can communicate an immense amount of love for that person. A person whose primary love language is physical touch would much rather have you hold them and be silent than offer any advice.

It is important to remember that this love language is different for everyone. What type of touch makes you feel secure is not necessarily what will make your partner happy. It is important to learn each other’s dialects. That way you can make the most of your hugging, kissing, and other physical contacts.

Funny.... Not!

I had an appointment to for an ultrasound this afternoon. They told me to come with a full bladder. So I did as I was told. As soon as I walked in to the office, (while smiling) I told the receptionist, "I'm here for an ultrasound. I was asked to come with a full bladder. I just have to tell you, that I've had six pregnancies. I'm not able to retain like I use to." She told me, she would let them know I was ready. I saw her get up and walk out with my chart. I kept fidgeting. Praying that the flood gate wouldn't open. Well 30 minutes later, they still hadn't called me. I was in pain and it was evident. I went back to the receptionist and told her I needed to reschedule my appointment. She took one look at me and said, "You don't look too well." I smiled back and politely said, "Please reschedule me, I'll be right back." When I got to the bathroom, I could see why she had made that comment. I was pale and sweaty (remember, I'm Hispanic). No wonder she looked concerned. By the time I got out, they still hadn't called me. She gave me my appointment card. She winked at me and told me she gave me the first appointment after lunch. That way I'd be the first one in. I thanked her and went on my way, still in pain. Which means, I have to do this all over again next week. How fun! :o)

On my way back from my appointment that wasn't, I had to stop by the Recreation Center and leave a baseball sign up flyer. Then on my way home was a horrendous car accident. The road home was closed. Traffic was being detoured. I decided to stop at the grocery store and get a dessert. I wanted some comfort dessert. I bought an Angel Food cake and Sherbet ice-cream. Yum! When I got home, I cut the cake in half (all the way around). Then layered the Sherbet ice-cream all the way around. I put back the top I had cut off and put it all in the freezer. After dinner (pizza- I told you I needed comfort food!), we had dessert. It was DELISH!

As for my rest of the day, I would personally say that it was productive and that things went smoothly. Someone else might say, "Are you kidding?!" Let me tell you why. Daughter of the King and The Warrior had appointments to get their teeth cleaned. We were in an out in less than one hour. No cavities! YEAH! We got home and I laid down for a nap. I'm fighting a flare-up. While I was napping, my children had lunch. Since we aren't back to school officially, I had G.I. Joe and The Warrior read a chapter in each of the books I had assigned to them. They also read their God's World Newspaper. They read a Proverbs a day. That was it for today, but remember we don't go "back to school" until next week. Why? Because our Fair Maidens are still on vacation. :o) Later on in the afternoon, Daughter of the King and G.I. Joe had appointments to get their hair cut. Since I was napping, Daughter of the King went with her brother to the appointment. This is the first time I have not been present at a hair cut appointment. I feel like I'm being faced out. LOL! I know that this is a taste of what's to come. But I welcome it. I know my children are growing up. Not only are they growing up physically, but the are maturing. I'm so blessed.

Now I can't wait to go to bed, but it's only 8:30a! That was my day. How was yours?

Scooter's 1st Birthday

A year ago today, my GREAT-nephew Scooter, was born. :o) Yesterday, The Constable & La Madre (Scooter's parents) gave him his first of many, birthday party. We had pizza, Caesar salad, antipasto, sodas, wine and cake (remember, mom is part Italian)! He even had his own little birthday cake to do with as he pleased. My children had never seen this done. They asked, "Mom, why did they do that?" I told them, it's an American thing. LOL! Our family never did that, then again, we are Hispanic. :o) At first he wanted nothing to do with the cake. After much encouragement for The Constable, he got the idea and there was cake everywhere!



Since all of The Seamstress' grandchildren were there, we took advantage and snapped a picture. I was having trouble with Still Waters' camera, so it didn't come out too clear. :o( Sitting on the couch we have: The Constable holding his son Scooter, The Seamstress, Still Waters and The Warrior. Standing behind the couch we have: Daughter of the King, G.I. Joe,
The Charmer, The Jester and Soaring Amongst The Clouds.

We had great fun watching him crawl, laugh, and squeal with joy at all his new toys. Believe me, he got plenty of it! It's hard to believe that a year has past. I got onto my nephews. Telling them they better hurry up and get married. J.R. needs cousins his own age, not years and years older! To which they just laughed at me. Boys....

The Courtship Begins...

Airman G and Soaring Amongst The Clouds are officially courting. Their courtship will mainly be via emails. You see he's a cadet in the Air Force Academy in Colorado. He graduates in 2010.

One day I will have to tell him that I have been praying for him since 1991. That's the year I got saved. My mentor and friend helped me to realize, that I should pray for the future soul mate of my children. Not a day goes by that I don't pray for my children or their future spouse. May God bless their journey together.

A Day Like Every Other Day

As I'm journaling, I'm listening to the Hope Floats soundtrack. Check it out and hear a sample of each songs.

Little League baseball sign ups started today. Which means, Spring Ball is just around the corner. My Squires are thrilled and so are our Fair Maidens. Can you tell we love the sport? :o)

My Knight was the president of the league last year. Due to his mom living with us, he stepped down. But he's still on the board of directors. So he volunteered to be there today from 9a-3p. Needless to say, I hated when he got out of our warm waterbed. :o( But I know he does is for our Squires. So, I got up too.

I had promised The Seamstress I'd take her shopping today, for Scooter's 1st birthday. His party is tomorrow. Can't wait to see him. Well, she wanted to go to Target. Her mind was set on buying him a bathing suit or a beach towel. Keep in mind we are still in the middle of winter. The chances of her finding something she likes are a little slim. As it worked out, they did have about 6 different styles. But none that she liked. Four of the styles were really cute, but my taste and hers are very different. She reluctantly picked one. Not because I made her, but she just wanted to get it done. Then we found some beach towels. They were all very cute, but again, she wasn't happy with the choices. But she settled for one. So she bought a bathing suit and a beach towel. Scooter is ready for the Spring/Summer. He will look too cute in his turtle covered bathing suit, with his blue sea horse towel to keep him dry. :o) After our outing, I drove her back home.

I decided to surprise my Knight and pick him up for his one hour lunch brake. We went through Burger King's drive through. We decided to take it back to the fields and eat while we parked. It reminded me of when we were younger. We would eat lunch together in the car. I love spending time with him. Doesn't matter what we are doing, as long as we are together.

Well, Airman G has come a-calling again. He's going back tomorrow to the Air Force Academy. Tonight Soaring Amongst The Clouds is having dinner with his family. He's a fine young man and I know they have been fond of each other for many years. Only God knows what's in store for them.

Where Was I Today?

Until now (10p), I think I might of been in our Castello for a total of 3 hours. I'm a homebody. But I also enjoy going out. What exactly did I do today? Well let me tell you...

I had an appointment with my gyn. Ok ladies, in unison... URGH! I was informed that I was a 'very bad girl'. I'm 44 years old and have never had a mammogram. Apparently, I have some lumps that need to be checked out. I've never had any problems or pain. I don't check myself, so that makes me a bad girl. In order to be a 'good girl', I have to get a mammogram. I like being 'bad', but I guess I should do the 'good girl' thing and get things checked out. My doc also talked to be about having endometrial ablation. I'm having trouble with my cycle. Having this procedure is way better than the dreadful hysterectomy. In order to get the ball rolling, I'm scheduled for an ultrasound and some lab work.

WARNING! MEN SKIP THIS IF YOU WANT TO. I'M SHARING THIS IN ORDER TO HELP OTHER WOMEN.
Rabbit Chasing: Two good friends of mine have had endometrial ablation. The reason they had it done was because they had heavy and painful cycles. They had tried the holistic approach, but nothing worked. Both of my friends say thing are much better with them. I'm a candidate for this procedure, not only because of heavy and painful cycles, but I have excessive clots and my cycle is now lasting almost 2 weeks. I'm also anemic.

When I was done with my appointment, I called up my friend, The Scrapper. We were going to meet for lunch. She wasn't ready, so I went to out insurance company to drop off Daughter of the King's completed safe driver booklet. Now that I've turned it in, we are able to get a discount on our car insurance. YEAH!

The Scrapper wasn't ready, so I just hung out at her house for a bit. We decided to eat at Chick-Filet. We support them as often as we can. It's a Christian fast food place that sell, well... chicken. LOL! After we were there for a while, Airman G and Soaring Amongst The Clouds walked in. They sat with us. Once we were ready, The Scrapper and I headed out to Wal-Mart... to see what we could see. :o) Well, I found a collection of Audrey Hepburn's dvd. YEAH!!!! I'm such a big fan of hers. It brought, Sabrina, Paris When It Sizzles, Breakfast At Tiffany's, Funny Face and Roman Holiday. We already had two of the movies, so I gave those two to The Scrapper and kept the rest. She's a fan of "old" movies. I also bought the soundtrack for the movie, Amazing Grace. I love the Chris Tomlin rendition of Amazing Grace. The Scrapper bought the movie. She's going to let me borrow. If I like it, then I'll buy it later on. Did I mention I love watching movies and I buy movies I like?

Once we were done shopping, I dropped The Scrapper off at her home. I called my Knight and asked if I needed to bring anything home. Well, we had forgotten to take anything out for dinner. He thought we should have spaghetti. So back to Wal-Mart I went. To get some ground beef and garlic bread. I went to the same cashier I had seen earlier. She smiled and said, "Weren't you just here?". To which I politely replied, "Yes, I practically live here." We both laughed.

On the way home, I dropped by the Walgreen's pharmacy. Apparently, they forgot to refill The Seamstress' medication. The window lady ( I went through the drive-through) apologized and asked if I wanted to wait for it. I declined and told her, I'd be back later.

Through out the day, my sister and I played cell phone tag. Every message we left each other was an answer to our questions. It would of been quite funny if what we were talking about wasn't important. You see my nephew, Papa, wants an airsoft gun. She asked me to look into it. After thinking about it, I was going to suggest to her that she shouldn't get him one. He has trouble controlling his temper. He has in the past gotten physical with her and my dad. He is only 11 years old. He is almost (if not already) 5' tall and weighs about 125+ lbs. An airsoft gun is not a good idea. Well, one of the messages said, that she had bought one already. URGH! When I finally got to talk to her, she told me she was going to keep it at our dad's home. I have a problem with that. If he looses his temper there, and decides her wants his airsoft gun, then my dad has to deal with it. As it is, he disrespects my dad when he's in one of those moods. When things are well, he's as sweet as sweet can be. But, my dad is going to be 72 years old this summer. He should not have to deal with this problem. I also asked her what did the therapist have to say about this issue. She told me she'd talk to me later about it. Once I voiced my opinion about the gun, she quickly told me she couldn't talk and she hung up. This is what she does every time she knows I'm going to say something that she doesn't agree with. Please pray for God to give her wisdom.

After running around all day, I finally arrived at our Castello. YEAH! A mountain of laundry was waiting for me. Did I mention that we've been having septic tank issues? Well, we "were". Early this morning the septic upkeep people came by and extended our draining field. Can I get a DOUBLE YEAH?!!! So today, I managed to get in 4 loads of laundry. While I was folding, Soaring Amongst The Clouds was starting dinner. It was going to take a while, so my Knight and I went to Lowe's to get some bathroom flappers. While we were out, we went to get The Seamstress' medication. Turns out they could only give her 9 pills. We signed her up for the 90 day mail to your home program. They said, the rest should be arrive at home. It was almost 12 for 9 pills. Wow!

By the time we got to our Castello, all the clothes had been folded and dinner was ready. Did I mention how much I love my children? Well, I do! :o) Daughter of the King was the only one that wasn't home. She went to babysit Mr. Dr. Pastor Sir's children. She had to be there at 4p. Poor thing didn't get home until 12 midnight. Did I mention that she babysits for them for free? She does it for them as a ministry. She knows that pastors don't get paid much.

After dinner, Soaring Amongst The Clouds and I went to the mall. We really weren't looking for anything, but she wanted to get out for a little while. Still Waters couldn't come along, she wasn't feeling up to it. Maybe next time around. While we were at the mall, we realized we have two weddings to attend to. One is next month, the other one in March. So we looked for some dresses. We saw nothing we liked. Everything is low cut, strapless, spaghetti strap, mini, or form fitted. We found nothing modest. There were a couple of very cute Audrey Hepburn style dresses. They were mostly black or black and white. But she doesn't want to wear black to a wedding. While at the mall, we stopped at Haagen Dazs. We were patiently waiting in line, when three teenagers stepped up to the counter. The young man who was working there had just finished with a customer, when the girls started to ask him a question. I said, "Excuse me, I was next in line." One of the girls said, "I was just going to ask him a question." I was floored! Ah, hello... then wait in line! URGH!!!! But I didn't lose it. :o) I was with Soaring Amongst The Clouds. I tried to set an example. Rudeness should not be tolerated. The young man took our order. As I walked away, I heard the girls snickering. Where has common courtesy gone?

So, that was my day. I was busy doing "stuff". When I finally sat down, The Warrior came down and gave me a long lasting hug. I asked him if he'd missed me, and he just hugged me tighter. Be still my heart....

Let's Go Have Coffee!

When we got home from church last night, I got busy doing some more laundry and other little things. Through it all, I was thinking, "I really want to go out tomorrow, but it's such a short notice. Who can I call? Who would be able to go and hang out for a little while?" I got busy again and forgot about it. Then The Seamstress tells me, "You got a call while you were at church. The lady left a message." Well wouldn't you know it, The Peace & Love Child called to see if I wanted to go out for coffee! LOL! She's so sweet. She said, "I know you aren't a morning person, but how about 10a?" I'm like, "OH YEAH! That sounds great!" I'm really looking forward to spending time with her again. Let me share how I came up with her name. Her parents were into the hippie movement. She is easy going and makes those around her feel at ease.

I'm drawn to her her for many reasons: Somehow she reminds me of my child hood. She has two beautiful little girls and a handsome little guy. Not that I was beautiful, but there were also three of us, two girls and a brother, in that order. She has a carefree spirit. She loves her children. She is also the age my brother would of been if he were still alive. Her funny, witty, easy going, happy spirit reminds me of him.

We met at Perkins around 10a. We sat and talked for a couple of hours. We talked a little about everything. We hoped from topic to topic. She's my kind of gal. LOL! I really enjoyed her company. I look forward to our new found friendship...

Oh, did I mention that I'm not a coffee drinker? I get my caffeine from.... coke. :o) So she had the coffee and I had a coke.

Happy New Year!

This year, 2008 is off to a good start. We were surrounded by friends and family. Lots of wonderful things will happen this year. I'm already starting to think ahead. Lots of changes will take place.

You see, Soaring Amongst The Clouds will turn 21, which makes her legal. Still Waters will be 20. Daughter of the King will be of voting age, 18 and will be a student at the Alumni University. G.I. Joe will celebrate his 14th birthday and will be participating in high school sports. The Warrior will be turning 12. My Knight and I will be 45. We will be celebrating our 26th wedding anniversary. And that's just for starters! Lord, help us to follow you every step of the way. Help us to be aware of the deceiver and not to fall for his lies.

Funny how we make plans, and sometimes get bummed out when what we've planned starts to fall apart. I was soooo looking forward to having my friend Jewel's and her family come over to help us celebrate the New Year. But it didn't work out. They did allow Steps to come over and spend time with us. My friend The Scrapper came over. So did her son Airmen G. Her daughter KT was babysitting (and was spending the night) for friend of theirs. The Seamstress was here too. While The Scrapper and I sat talking and playing with her new scrapbooking toys, everyone else (my Knight included) was upstairs, playing video games. We could hear them downstairs laughing and having a good time. At the risk of being fired as a Sunday School teacher or judged, I will not share something BUT, I will just blurp about it and say, "Oh yeah!". So when my children read this in the future, they'll smile and say, "Yeah, that's my mom! I remember that." ;o) It didn't surprise me when ten minutes before midnight, my door bell rang... it's my dad and mom. Happy New Year!

My dad had called around lunch time saying, "We are thinking of coming over." I didn't get my hopes up cause, my dad is, well, my dad. He has the gift of good intentions. LOL! He wants to, but he doesn't always follow through. I love him anyway. Then he calls me around 4p.,"Well, I'm feeding Drama Queen's turtle and dog. We haven't packed yet, but I'll head home as soon as I'm done." LOL! A little after 6p, my phone rings, "Well we just got on the turnpike." LOL! I was ready... they'll be hear just in time to hug and kiss for New Years. Did I ever mention that one year they got to our home 2 minutes before Thanksgiving Day was over? We quickly sat at the table and started eating, so we could say, we had Thanksgiving dinner on Thanksgiving Day. We still laugh about it.

Wish I could say, I was able to take lots of pictures, but I wasn't, people just didn't want to cooperate. But here are a few that turned out...


The guys are all playing Call of Duty 4. Guess I should mention that The Warrior (who happens to be the youngest) beat everyone.



Airman G with his mom, The Scrapper. I like this picture. The Scrapper doesn't smile much for pictures. Glad I got this shot. She's very happy her son is home for Christmas/New Year's. He's a cadet at the Air Force Academy.



My Still Waters with her beautiful serene smile.



My Soaring Amongst The Clouds and Airman G. They have known each other since they were 12. They met the one year our Fair Maidens attended school. Earlier on New Year's Eve, a group of Airman's friends got together at a restaurant to watch the Air Force play California. He invited Soaring Amongst The Clouds. They all had a good time in spite of the Air Force loosing. :o(



The Warrior hiding from me. URGH!!!



The Seamstress, she doesn't smile much. There is a language barrier, but she isn't willing to make new friends. We have tried, to get her to meet others, but she just doesn't want to. I feel bad for her, but I'm not sure what to do about it. Once my parents came, she changed. My mom and her played domino's until 2:30a!



Daughter of the King and Steps waiting for the New York, big, shiny ball to drop. I wonder what she's saying to him. Do you notice that little attitude look?


Have mentioned that I love my dad? Well, I do! Holidays are hard for him. He misses my brother, his mom and his sister. I miss my brother very much too, but there is a difference, I have hope. Hope that one day I'll see him again. Please pray for my dad.

I have to say this, cause it made me think how different things are in our family. Everyone hugged and kissed (on the cheek), while we celebrated bringing in the New Year. Airmen G and Steps, dared not even touch our Fair Maidens. It's good to know that there are young men who still show honor and respect. The only big smooch that night was my Knight's and It's. Everyone had a great time. We all went to bed around 3a. It good to be surrounded by family and friends.

May the best of your past be the worst of your future...