Love Hurts

Isabel just loves Emma to death.. literally. She was giving her a hug, which because of the height difference is more chocking than hugging. Emma always tries to push her away. After about 10 hugs Emma was fed up.

"Isabel, no more hugs for Emma today"
"But I love her"
"I know you love her, but your hutting her"
"But I love her"
"Ok, but Emma doesn't want anymore hugs"
"But I love her"

coversation ended there... Emma get used to it. Love sometimes hurts.

Guess What????

I have internet access at home again... Yeah... I missed it. And guess what else? It's all Eddie's fault. He switch the modem and had it plug into a new wall. Well this new wall doesn't get a dial tone, so guess what no DSL either. I can't believe I went without sent Thanksgiving. Thanks to the sbc tech support, I thought about checking the phone line. So as we were trying other things I switched the line over to the old wall. Tech support had just about given up and was going to send a tech out when wa-la, I got all green lights... Yeah...
Now I can get caught up on all the stuff like surfing, and blogging, and uploading pictures, and fun stuff for the kids...
It's so glad to be back.

GH on the brain

I've 95% done on Emma's scrapbook. Yeah! I went to my friends house to scrapbook last night, it was great. Spent 2.5 hours just relaxing, talking, and cropping.
When I got home the girls were asleep and Eddie was watching TV. I went into my room and started watching GH. I'd been waiting since yesterday to watch. It was good. There is a new character, a surgeon, who I think was brought on to be a love interest for Robin, (a doctor as well, medical research). Eventhough she hates him right now, and is HIV positive, I know that they are going to fall in love. After the show I dreamt about them falling in love on the show, it was a good dream.
Anyways, I'm so glad I have DVR, 100% better than recording on VHS, and I can watch all my shows on Saturday or whenever I want. Technology is great.

New Drug Cocktail

I feel like crap today.... I'm sorry I meant to say I feel like snap... wait that doesn't sound right either.
See my friend pointed out that saying "Oh crap", doesn't sound good. I seem to think that it's better than saying "Oh Sh*t". Well I decided I'd try a word substitution and say "Oh snap" instead. It's not working. "Crap" is just drilled into my head. So how do I feel today? Awful, just plain awful. (I did it).

My allergies are kicking my bootay. I went to the doctor after work yesterday, hoping to get a shot. What they gave me was 4 prescriptions. So after that I went to pick up the girls and headed to Costco.

First thing I did was head to the bathroom. Isabel was wearing panties, so wanted to make sure she didn't have an accident. Next stop the pharmacy counter. Wait time 45 minutes.. Holy cow... I can't wait that long. But I really didn't have a choice. So down the aisles I went. I pick up my wipes, then headed to look for my scrapbooking paper. There was none to be found... Ahhh I knew I should have bought it when I had the chance. Next stop food. We shared a chicken bake... Hmm good. Then we picked up the meds... Total bill at Costco $96.00 + $50 at the doc's office. Not bad for one day... There goes my Christmas money.

My drug cocktail consists of: Allegra 180 (30 day), Prednisone (7 days), Nasonex (when needed), and Elidel (Twice a day).
My drug of choice is Nasonex. It's a nasal spray. I love it. It taste bad going down my troat, but it sure does work.

Hopefully I'll feel better by this afternoon.

Farwell Mrs. Sessums

Dixie's grandma passed away on Christmas Day. She would have been 81 in February. The funeral will be this Thursday. Please keep her husband and family in your prayers.
What I remember about her most is breakfast time. I went and visited their home in San Antonio when I was 17 years old. The first morning that we got up there was a spread on the kitchen table. Donuts, muffins, eggs, bacon, ham, and pancakes. I was stuffed, and she still wanted to feed me more. And she made the best orange julius' out of figs from her backyard. Dixie says it is bittersweet. Grandma Sessums was ready, and had been for quite awhile. Although healthy, active and eating right, she had a heart attack. She declined having surgery to fix it. She was able to say goodbye to her family and friends.
Farwell Mrs. Sessums.

The Tree is away....Christmas is over

Wow, another year is coming to an end. This Christmas was great. We spent it in our new house with our family. The girls and my nephew had tons of gifts to open. Guess I'm going to have to let them have two play rooms instead of just one. The girls did great in the Christmas play. They were presents. They were standing in the front, and Isabel thinking in her head (hey I need to be back there singing) immediately Isabel went to the back where the older kids were and started singing Happy Birthday Jesus. One by one the other toddlers followed suit... Emma was the only one who stood where she was supposed to. She's so obedient. The rest of the day was spent eating posole (like menudo, with out the gross stuff), tamales, and fruit cocktail salad. We opened gifts for what seems like hours. Box after box, the girls got clothes, toys, and lots of Dora and princess stuff. We got them a car and bike.... All in all this was a great Christmas.

Merry Christmas

Just wanted to wish everyone a Merry Christmas. Hope you guys and gals have a wonderful time with your families this Christmas Day.

Does this make me a bad mom?

Just last night I noticed that Emma has an "outy". I hadn't noticed it before. I wonder if it just popped out from being so full from eating. Hmmmm

I'm not that lucky

Just read this article, and thought to myself what would I do if someone left a ring worth $15,000 in my car.
Do I keep it? No, it would be a liability to me. I'd be a afaid of getting mugged just for the ring.
Do I sell it? Of course... I'd sell it in a heartbeat and then payoff my car with the proceeds.
What would you do?

Made with Love

This year being on a tight budget, we've had to be creative in our gift giving. So Eddie made something (can't say what, cause everyone got the same thing) from wood to give. It is really nice. In giving this gift away, I found that not only was it cost effecient, but the one who received this gift appreciated it alot more that had I just gone out and bought one. It just makes you feel really good inside knowing that you put a smile on someones face. Hopefully we can continue this next year as well.

Tribute to Dixie

My friend Dixie lives in New Braunfels. We've known each other since I was 15 years old. She's married and has 3 kids, so consequently she says doesn't have alot of time to read my blog. (I'll make sure she reads this post)
In high school she had a book called "The Book of Questions". We would stay up hours answering all the questions in the book, week after week after week.
It was alot of fun, plus you really get to know someone by asking lots of questions. So each week I will pose a question from this book, to be commented on. Hope you have as much fun as I did answering these questions.


Question #4 (from the book)

If you could spend one year of perfect happiness but afterward would remember nothing of the experience would you do so? If not, why not?

Mirror Mirror on the wall....

What is beauty?
For a woman it may mean her figure, hair, face, legs, breast, everything external. At least that is what society looks at. And we look at that as well. We comb our hair, put on makeup, paint our nails, workout (or at least try), we diet (or at least try) What's wrong with being beautiful on the outside, absolutely nothing as long as it doesn't define who you are.
Read these words from a song written and sung by BarlowGirl

Mirror, Mirror on the wall; Have I got it?
'Cause Mirror you've always told me who I am
I’m finding It’s not easy to be perfect
So sorry, you won’t define me
Sorry, you don’t own me

I have to remind myself of this. Gone are the days of size 6 and long thick curly black hair. I'm over the size 6 thing, there will come a time when I'll have the time to workout, but with two toddlers it ain't happening anytime soon.
Now my hair... Eddie used to say he loved my hair. I used to love my hair...but slowly it's fading away. I've been cursed by genetics. I remind myself that beauty is who I am in the Lord. I've got to work on this one.
Am I a beautiful person?
Do I shine the love and light of Jesus?
Sometimes I'm not. When I yell at someone, or am short with someone, or sarcastic...
Othertimes,I do. When I'm generous, or smile, or help others without a thought to myself.

Mirror I am seeing a new reflection
I’m looking into the eyes of He who made me
To Him I have beauty beyond compare

Annual Wish List

Every year I give my friends and family my annual wish list. That way they know exactly what to get me. I think it's help everyone all around. They don't have to rack their brains trying to figure out what to get me and I don't have to wait in a line for hours waiting to return something. So here goes.

1. A echthus silver charm for my bracelet (Christian fish).. $4-7.00 at Dixie's (Randolmill and 360)
2. A Costco gift card so I can buy the 2 packs of scrapbook paper (card stock and differnt designs) 11.00 and 13.00
3. $10 ITunes card so I can buy the new Third Day album... (you can get it at Best Buy)

See that wasn't so bad...

The only thing missing is the table

Bought this bike for Isabel for Christmas. `And a little car for Emma (a green and purple one). I can't wait for them to see the gifts. Christmas is at our house this year. The only people missing will be my grandparents and aunt and uncle. They will be in Odessa. Man I can't wait. Eddie's mom is making Tamales, and a chicken salad dish. My mom is making some Asado (red chili with meat)... she doesn't know it yet though. I think I'll make a chicken enchilada casserole. My mouth is already starting to water..... We'll get up extra early to give Emma and Isabel their bikes. We'll go to church with all our family joining us. Emma and Isabel will be in the Christmas program, where they will sing Happy Birthday Jesus and Feliz Navidad. Then we'll come back home to open gifts, and eat all that good food.
Oh wait... I don't have a dining room table. Eddie was supposed to build me one before Christmas, but it ain't gonna happen. I told him not to sweat it. I guess it's TV tray time... Just kidding, I'll get a table from the church.

If they button they fit

My sister is so generous. Last weekend she was out shopping and bought me and my husband some jeans. She wanted me to try them on immediately. I went in and tried them on. Good in the thighs, they came over my hips, sucking in the stomach. Now here goes..... Yes they button. I think we have a winner. Do they fit she ask? Well I got them buttoned, that's really the only place that they are tight.
Fastforward to yesterday... I put on the same jeans (not washed of course, wouldn't want them to shrink on me.) Guess what they fit even better the second time. I think I lost weight.... maybe just wishful thinking.

The Princess Syndrome

First Cinderella, now it's Beauty and the Beast... She loves watching these two movies, and loves putting on her princess dress.

We were taking pictures and the photographer asked "Who's your favorite princess" to which she replied "Me".

Eddie says "I love you Belle"... "Daddy, say I love you PRINCESS"

Prayer Request

UPDATE:
Thanks everyone for praying. The Lord has answered, and the answer was "not yet". He scored a 91 cumulative grade. But there were 5 people who scored higher. Eddie is glad the test is over.

Please pray for my husband Eddie. He is going to be taking a promotional exam tomorrow at 9:00 am. He is trying to promote to Driver Engineer at the fire dept.
He's been studying for about 4 months now. There are 4 positions open. Basically the people who have the top 4 grades get the spots (85 people will be testing).

Pray that he will have an easy day today at work, and will be able to rest.(he's at central station, which means they'll normally have numerous calls during the day, and calls during the night). Pray that he will be able to sleep all night long. Tomorrow, Pray that God will help him recall all of the information that he has stored in his head. And finally pray that he will get one of the top 4 grades so that he can get the promotion.

Thanks.
Michelle

Seven Things

A Man of Faith tagged me with the seven things. Here it goes:

Seven Things I want to Do Before I Die:
1. See both of my girls accept Christ and get baptized.
2. Be debt free
3. Go to Hawaii
4. Go on a cruise
5. Go to Disney World as a family
6. Swim with Dolphins
7. Watch my girls get married


Seven Things I Cannot Do:
1. Reject Christ
2. A Cartwheel
3. Imagine my life without my two girls and my husband
4. Watch the news when it involves tragedy w/ kids
5. Listen to the song "She walked Away" by BarlowGirl without crying
6. Be outright mean
7. Hit a ball with a bat


Seven Things That Attract Me To My Husband (romantic interest, best friend, whatever applies to you)
1. His sense of humor
2. His ambition
3. He's a great carpenter
4. He's a wonderful cook
5. He's a jack of all trades
6. He's a committed man of God
7. Awesome Firefighter and Paramedic

Seven Things I Say Most Often
1. I Love You, to my family
2. Like
3. Dude!
4. I'm out.
5. Shhhhh, mommy is listening to her show.
6. Isabel, eso no se ase!
7. Do you want to watch Dora or Diego?

Seven Books, Or Series, That I Love
1. The Bible
2. Where the Red Fern Grows
3. Little Miss Books, by Roger Hargreaves
4. Super Fudge, by Judy Blume
5. Old Yeller
6. The O'Malley Series
7. Stephanie Plum Novels, by Janet Evonovich


Seven Movies I Would Watch Over and Over Again
1. The Sandlot
2. Ferris Bueller's Day Off
3. Sixteen Candles
4. Grease
5. Top Gun
6. Lethal Weapon
7. Weird Science


Seven People I Want To Join In To
1. Eddie
2. Mom
3. WifeyandMommy
4. Life as an Ant, Jeremy
5. A Proverbs 31 woman
6. Dixie
7. Gladys

Merry Christmas Charlie Brown!

Is one of my favorite Christmas shows. And I'm glad the network still airs it every year. Why you ask, because towards the end of the show the one with the blanket (Linus?) recites the Christmas story my memory from the Bible, as he explains what Christmas is all about.
Two nights ago we started the family tradition of watching Christmas movies together. 1st was Elf, last night was Charlie Brown Christmas, and tonight will be the Christmas Story.
What's your favorite Christmas movie?

Music in the Air

I bought the coolest thing today. An FM Modulator
I can hook my ipod to it and play music in my car, I can also hook up my laptop and the girls can listen to their movies through the car speakers. Also you can hook up a usb drive that has mp3 files on it and play those as well. Check it out... Only $30 at Walmart.

Winter Weather

Hate it. There are some idiotic drivers out there. I'm just glad that I leave early enough where there is no one on the road.

Can't wait until all the ice goes away tomorrow.

Learning to ride a bike at 11

My mom bought me my first bike at 11 years, I remember I was in the 6th grade. I previously won a bike in the 3rd grade, by winning 1st place city wide for the Fire prevention poster contest. I rode my bike for all of about 20 minutes and got a flat. It being West Texas and all, we had lots of stickers in our yard. We chained the bike up behind our trailer, and it stayed there until it was eventually stolen.

So, I got this 10-speed bike for Christmas, my uncle spent all day putting it together. There were still some bolts left over at the end, so I wasn't confident that the bike wouldn't fall apart. We go outside to ride. Keep in mind that I'm 11 years old and don't know how to ride a bike, much less a 10-speed. I fell and fell and fell, my knees were so scraped up, I've got scares to prove it. Plus the pedals had spikes on them, so whenever my foot would slip the pedal would turn and hit the back of my ankle. Ouch.

Needless to say, I had fun on my bike, although the number of accidents that occured are too many to count. Although one comes to mind..

I was in high school, riding to my friend's house. I hit some gravel, and crashed into a fire hydrant. I flipped over the bike on the grass. I picked the bike up and noticed that the chain had fallen off. Well I had experience on putting it back on of course. I just jumped back on and took off. This bike eventually had to retire, because of another accident that bent the wheel. I can not wait until we buy our girls their first bikes.

Christmas Lights

Click on the video. Turn up your speakers.



For more information click here.

Thanks Stephanie for this link.

Resemblance. You think?

This was too cute not to share. Picture taken at a recent family outing.

S.U.P.E.R Wife

This morning as I drove to work. I was listening to a sermon from Dr. Ed Young, Pastor of Second Baptist of Houston. He's sermon was about being a SUPER Wife. What is a SUPER Wife you ask.

S Sex. Men need and want sex. Not out of duty, not using it as a bargaining chip. But as a expression of love.
U Unique appreciation. You know your husbands uniquely. Your husband needs to know that he is special, that he is needed, and that he matters.
P Partnership. They need a partner in the relationship. A husband should look forward to coming home to their partner. Set the atmosphere of a happy home.
E Enchanting wife. Attractive. Not primarily physical, but your inner beauty. Let your words, and mind be your inner attractiveness. Grace, Charm, your beauty in the Lord
R Recreational companionship. Women become friends by conversation. Men become friends through activity. You need an activity that you do together. Be your husband's best friend.

You are called upon to meet these needs of your husband. When you do, you will be blessed.

Breaking the Cycle

It hurt my heart when my 2 year old said "Don't yell at me!", this was of course after I had politely asked her to do something like 3 times, with no response. Nevertheless, I was wrong, and I apologized to her. I remember my mother yelling at me when I wouldn't listen, and I'm sure my grandmother yelled at her. And now the cycle seems to be continuing. But I'm going to put a stop to it. I just pray that the Lord helps me in this area. Isabel can be really stubborn sometimes, which I fully understand, since I'm the same way. I will have to be more patient with her.

The Dreaded "B" Word

Budget, I hate thinking about it, I hate looking at it, I hate paying bills from it, I hate sticking to it.

The last part is a real problem. It's so hard not to spend, but I've got to stick to my budget. So no more eating out. No more movies. No more shopping for anything. No more entertainment. Ok, maybe once a month.

Lord help help help me stick to my budget. I want to be DEBT free, and only with your help am I going to be able to reach this goal.

The Biggest Looser

Did you see the finale? I did an ex-coworkers wife was one of the contestants. All I can say is wow, all those people lost alot of weight. I'm so motivated now.
I bought the Quaker Oats Weight Control oatmeal, a banana, and a chicken ceasar salad to eat today. I eat oatmeal in the morning anyway, ok well not every morning, but I try. Ok, I can at least control what I eat, so I can't really blame anyone for that one. I just need to find a way that I can go work out. It's hard to go to the gym with two kids. Workout videos are boring. Mom, I you don't use your gazell, I want to use it. I can throw it upstairs and watch TV while I work out, and the kids can play in their playroom. Perfect!

4% Return on your savings

See the articles on CNN, Bill O'Reilly, CBS, and Barron's online about EmigrantSavings Bank

Life Questions

This week's question is "Who is a mentor you have had? - taken from A Proverbs 31 Woman

Irma Fisher - Got herself through college, became a programmer, favorite aunt, (well only aunt). She gave me my first computer, a TI-994A. And I still call her for programming advice every now and then.

Harold Freeze - Supervisor at Bell Helicopter (5 years), took me under his wing. I was his right-hand lady. Taught me that even the higer-ups put their pants on one leg at a time like we do, and they are no more special. Taught me how to say "no" when my workload is full. Taught me that if you ask someone to do something, be able to work along side them. Then in the future, they can do the task by themselves.

Playback Time

Remember those rectangle tape recorders. Before the days for double tape players, I would play the radio and have the tape recorder nearby to record the music onto cassette. Then I could play back an entire evening of songs.

Well, I think Isabel has a tape recorder under her shirt somewhere. Yesterday she was very clingly. And eventhough Emma walks now, I still carry her, cause she's alot slower than the rest of us. Isabel kept asking me to "hold you". Of course her dad can hold both of them in his arms at the same time, but I'm not her dad. So everytime she'd ask, I would reply with "I'll hold your hand".

Last night as we lay in bed, I said "Isabel, I want to hold you". As she grabbed my hand she said "I'll hold your hand". I just laughed.

The Voice of God

God's speaking to me, I just haven't been still enough to listen. I got pulled over twice this pass weekend, and got off with warnings. What have I learned from this experience.

1. Put my insurance card in the glovebox
2. Use your signal light.
3. If you can't make the turn, you can't make the turn.
4. There are merciful people out in the world.
5. When you screw up, some people give you breaks.
6. Be more careful.

Questions...

1. Am I taking a turn in my life that I shouldn't be taking?
2. Do I need to be more forgiving when people screw up? YES

Thanksgiving

Good food, alot of crankiness from everyone (even me). Glad it's over.

The mind of a 5 year old boy

"Hey Jacob what's your girlfriend's name?"
"I don't got a girlfriend"
"Didn't you have one?"
"yeah, Olivia, but I changed my mind"
"That's good, cause girlfriends are too expensive. You have to buy them presents for their birthday and Christmas"
"She's got her own Mama"

Thank Him

Thank Him today because-
He formed you and made you.
He has given you the breath of life.
He has given you this day.
He is working in you to become all that He has intended you to be.
He is working everything in your life together for the good.
He is using your difficulties and trials to conform you to His image.

Thank Him today for-
The forgiveness of your sins.
The peace that passes all understanding.
The smiles that have come to your face because His joy is in your heart.
The comfort of His presence that has quieted your heart and calmed your fears.
The hope that is in you because He has promised to always be with you.
The place in heaven that He has reserved and has prepared for you.
Thank Him today with-
Words of exaltation.
Songs of celebration.
A heart of strong devotion.
Thoughts of deep reflection.
Acts of admiration.
Claps of loud ovation.

By him therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of our lips giving thanks to his name.
Hebrews 13:15 (KJV)

Not a shy bone

Isabel had the opportunity to sing in front of the congregation. She stood there with the rest of her class, singing "He's got the Whole world in his hands" She did really well. She was not shy at all in front of the mic. I can't wait to see her in the next year singing her first special in front of the congregation. Speaking of specials I need to sing one for Christmas, just don't know which one. My favorite is a medley of "Oh Holy Night, Holy Holy Holy, and Agnus Dei". I wanted to do "Mary did you know", but in spanish. I've got to see if there is a translation out there somewhere.

What I Love about my Church

A fellow blogger inspired me to right this.

Only about 100 people.
I'm close to the pastor and his family. We're their children's god-parents
Everyone fits in the fellowship hall.
I know everyone by name.
I have a voice on certain matters.
It's a billigual church.
We have a praise band.
Humble members, who are generous.
We call each other Hermana and Hermano (Brother and Sister)
Fellowship cookouts are the best.
In the summer we play volleyball and basketball after evening service.
and last but not least....
God continually uses us for his purposes.

Dating

The daughter of a friend of mine is starting to date. The guy went over to their house last night to meet her parents. He so did not make a good impression on the parents. He was a nice kid, but when he and his friend arrived, they went straight into the girl's room. Strike 3, we're not even going to give him strike 1 and 2.

I'm so glad that I have 15 more years before my girls start dating.
Words that I will pass along....

Give them the Jesus test.

"When you first meet, if you can both talk about your love of Jesus, then the guy may ask our permission to date you.

2 Dogs and a girl

I'm in my van at RandolMill and Fielder. The light turns green so I take off. Wow the road sure is bumpy. I go a little further, and then it hits. I've got a flat tire. I guess ignoreing my low tire pressure light for 2 weeks wasn't smart. I pull over and makes some phone calls. I go to the gas station to try and put some air. 75 cents, I have no change and only a debit card. The gas attendant is nice enough to turn on the pump. I start to fill up the tire, or so I think. Jesus, (pronounced Hesus) gets there. He offers to take the tire off to go get a new one.
Take my truck he says. Ok, I take off and a mile down the road I notice something moving in the bed of the truck. I turn around and low and behold there's a dog. I bust a u and to go back. "Hey I'm going to take your dogs back to your house." "No they are fine, they stay back there to protect my equipment, go to work in peace". Wait "they", of my there are two of them back there. Ok, I can't argue at this point. I take off to work, praying that these dogs won't fly out of the truck. I've gone out to check on them like twice now, and they are just laying back there. I sure hope he gets here soon. And I have no idea what kind of tire I'm going to have and how much it's going to cost me. Oh well, it's a good day.

Santa just another character

Christmas is around the corner. My kids are 2 1/2 and 1. We havent' jumped into the whole Santa Clause thing yet, don't know if we will. It's not like I will ever go to the mall durning Christmas time and bump into him, since I try to do all my shopping on-line. This year, I'm not even going to shop. It's homemade gifts for everyone. Isabel did take a picture with Santa one year. It was cute. If they ask who he is I'll tell them "Santa Claus". He'll be right there with Elmo, Oscar, Big Bird, Dora, and Diego... all the other characters they watch and love. But they won't BELIEVE in Santa Claus. We are going to teach our children what Christmas is all about and that is the birth of our Savior Jesus Christ. We'll limit the presents to 3.. One big one, 1 little bitty one, and a biblical one. And we'll show them about giving to those who aren't as fortunate as they are.
We'll also sit around the living room watching all our favorites. "A Christmas Story", "A Charlie Brown Christmas", and "Elf". I used to open my presents Christmas Eve, but I'd like my kids to go to bed with something to look forward to getting up to. Running down the hall to the living room, to open their gifts, and going to Church. I love Christmas, and hope that my kids will have memories that they will eventually share with their kids.

Goals

Need some. For work. We are going to this new bonus program, and I need to come up with some goals for next year. Can't be so easy that I fly through them, and not so hard that they are unattainable. I have to prayerfully think about this, and come up with some by the end of the week. Lord help me.

It's in there somewhere

I know this verse... "I will hold your truths in my heart, so that I will not sin against you.".... For the life of me I can't remember where it is in the bible... Proverbs... something... That is proof that I need to memorize scripture more. Whenever I go to my friend Noemi for advice, she can always give me advice straight from the bible.
I want to be able to do that for my girls. I want to be able to give them not my opinion, but what God says on the matter. I guess my next step would be to get more into the word and memormize scripture.

2 Timothy 4:2
Preach the Word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage—with great patience and careful instruction.

GH Junkie

My name is Michelle, and it had been 9 months, 3 days, and 4 hours since I had watched an episode of General Hospital. I took one day off last week and watched it, and now I'm hooked again. And since I have DVR, I am now recording it. I love General Hospital, I've been watching it since I was a kid, because my mom has watched it for as long as I remember. The Spencers, The Quartermaines, Luke, etc... But my all time favorite was Jagger (Antonio Sabato Jr), last seen in 1993, when he married Karen after they graduated from High School, which happens to be the same year I graduated. And there's Sonny, who is the type of character that makes it seem cool to be married to a mob boss.

Oh well, I've fallen off the wagon. It's not the first time and won't be the last.

C is for Cookie

This was my favorite Seasame Street song growing up. It's so cool to hear Isabel sing it and Emma too. They also both immitate Cookie Monster eating cookies. The cutest thing ever. But it is embarrasing when they do this in front of others, because others think that I'm not teaching my children how to each properly.

Listen up everyone....
If you see my kiddos shove a bunch of cookies in there mouths and make alot of noise while doing it. They're just doing it like the pro, Cookie Monster.

Future Worship Leader?

Today in my mission friends class I let my assistant kind of take over so that I could take care of some other things in another class room. Each Wednesday I lead the class in songs, mostly English and some spanish. Well when I walked back into the room, Isabel was the one leading everyone in the songs, it was so cute. It's amazing how these kids pick up these songs really fast. With that being said, I think I'm going to ask our worship leader if my mission friends can sing their 5 songs for the special this Sunday.

Song Line Up:
Bubbles
He's got the whole world in his hands
Twinkle, Twinkle
I Love You (from Barney)
Here and There (Aqui y Aya)

Too Busy to Blog?

Never thought that'd happen, but it has. See I normally blog in the morning when I get to work. But I've been super busy this week. It's my own fault, I told Jeff, my boss that I'd have something done by this week, and it's proving to take a little longer than I'd plan. Not that I can't get it done, there have just been other issue that have come up that superceed this project. So I find myself getting right to work when I get in, in the morning. I even contemplated working from home once the kids got to bed, but by God's mercy, I couldn't remember my VPN login, so no working at home. I did get alot accomplished, at least what I needed to. And tomorrow is a new day.

My God is an Awesome God

Bless the Lord O my Soul and all that is within me bless His holy name. Psalm 103:1

God you are so good. Please forgive me when I don't recognize that. Thank you for always keeping your promises. Help me shine your light today.

Finally, brothers, we instructed you how to live in order to please God, as in fact you are living. Now we ask you and urge you in the Lord Jesus to do this more and more. 1 Thess. 4:1

Amen

Fear Not

Sometimes, when Eddie's on shift, I get scared in the middle of the night when I'm in my big house out in the middle of no where. (Well at least it feels that way).
Last night was one of those nights. I've been wanting to watch that movie "Saw", Eddie says it's like "Seven". I haven't even seen it yet, but I have read up on it, and I'm already getting freaked out. I contemplate in my mind what I would do if any one were to ever break into the house. It's kinda hard getting 2 toddlers out of the house fast.
Last night was one of those nights. I couldn't go back to sleep, so I opened my bible to the Psalms. I read Psalm 56:3-4 over and over until I feel asleep.

3 When I am afraid,
I will trust in you.

4 In God, whose word I praise,
in God I trust; I will not be afraid.
What can mortal man do to me?

This morning I woke up and someone who is facing a difficult situation came to mind. I knew that was God telling me to pass the word on. So I called her and gave her the same verses. God is so good.

Learn to Read

Great website for anyone with kids
Starfall.com

Final Count

73 people made decisions to accept Christ into their heart this past Halloween.

Judgement Day haunted house was a great success. It was a success the minute the 1st person accepted Christ.

Can't wait until next year. Hope I get my voice back by then. :)

Part of the Team

I am the only woman on my team at work. This is not a first for me. When I worked at Bell Helicopter, the same was true. It was fun because I was 19 years old. Just a kid. I got so much special treatment it wasn't even funny. I got along so well with all the guys, we always had a blast at work. Fastforward 10 years later. 6 months ago I would have told you that I didn't feel apart of the team. I mean I have a good working relationship with everyone on my team, but that is as far as it went. There are those on my team that I got along great with. We'd do practical jokes on each other, and that would make it really fun. But just in the last months pretty much everyone on my team treats me differently, they huddle around MY desk to chitchat. They say "hey what's up" and they really value my thoughts on things. I'm glad, it makes work alot more fun and stress free.

Milestone

Emma can stand by herself from a seated position and can take at least 6-7 steps without falling. She's growing up. I don't want her to grow up yet. It's bittersweet. I want to see all the new things she's going to learn, but I'm going to miss the baby stage. Time for another one..... Just kidding.

All Heaven Rejoice

Judgement Day at Iglesia La Luz so far has been a success. For Friday and Saturday, 100 people went through the haunted house and 42 have gotten saved. Tonight is the last night. 7-9pm. It takes about 25 minutes to go through it. Hope to see you there. 2400 Pecandale, Arlington, TX 76013

Bye Bye Harriet

-- President Bush "reluctantly" accepts Supreme Court nominee Harriet Miers's request to withdraw her nomination.

Didn't expect this to happen. Curious as to who will be the next nominee.
I nominate......"Scott Wilder"



P.S. You've got to listen to the "Scott Wilder Show" to get that last sentence.
He's on the word fm from 4-6:30 pm

Speech Pathologist in Training

Yesterday in class, the 2 & 3 yr olds were making spiders.
Victoria who is 3 would say Spither.
Isabel would correct her. "No spither. Look. Spiiiiii - der.

Little Miss Smarty Pants.

Why? Why? Why?

Well yesterday, my friend suggested the cast changes, even after I told her that I didn't want to play the part. She came up with all kinds of excuses of why I needed to play the part. After thinking about it, I didn't want to step on anyones toes.
The girl is going to play the angel, which is a big role, because she has to do it in spanish and english.

Enough about that.

Isabel is sick. Threw up twice early this morning. She's at home now with her Papa. I got to work, and a girl who had been out since Friday said that her whole family had been throwing up. I hope I don't get it. If I do, then no play for me.

Judgement Day

Ok, I spend all afternoon Saturday writing the script for a skit that we are doing at church for our "Judgement Day" Haunted House. And stupid me, I help make the suggestion that someone else would play a good teenager.
Well last night we set up our set and props and this girl ran through the scene. She was alright, but it just wasn't having the effect that we are intended.
So my friend says to me, you run through it with me so that the other girl can see how it's done.
So I run through it. And oh my gosh, I gave the performance of a lifetime. I even almost made some people in the audience cry.
So here I am, stuck in a hard place. I want to play that part. I mean don't get me wrong, I don't want to hurt the other girl's feelings by taking my part back, but you gotta admit, I was good. So anyways, my friend who played opposite me, was going to call the person in charge to suggest that we make some role changes.
So I'll find out tonight, if I'll be on stage or behind the scenes. It doesn't matter to me either way, I just want the audience to get the full effect of the message we are trying to convey. We only have 2 days to practice, and then show time.

Judgement Day Haunted House
Iglesia La Luz
2400 Pecandale
Arlington, TX
Free
October 28,29,& 31
7:00 PM... line gets cut off at 9:00 PM

Sisters

I remeber as a kid, me and my sister would fight like cats and dogs. Eventhough she's 2 years younger than me, she'd win most of the time. And although we fought as kids, we are the best of friends now.

I see that same pattern with Isabel and Emma. They both like to pick on each other. But there are times when they just love each other to death. I'm glad they've get to experience being sisters. Shareing clothes, sharing a room, etc...
And I'm glad I've got my sister.

Politeness

Isabel has got it down. When we ask her to do something, and she doesn't want to do it, she'll politely say "no, thank you".

Isabel do you want to go sleep?
No tankyou

Isabel you need to go to sleep.
No tankyou

Isabel get in your bed and go to sleep.
(A the top of her lungs) no wanna go to sleep. no wanna to to sleep

My Prince

Well he did it. Carlos Cruz got 11th Grade Homecoming Prince.
Congratulations Carlos!

Friday Nite Football.

Tonight is the big night. We are going to a high school football game, where my God-son is playing and has been nominated for Prince.

I remember when I was in high school and jr. high. Friday night football was it. I've been going since jr. high, when the Permian Panthers were at the top of their game. We went because it was the social event to do. Conversation was great, touch-downs gave you a high, and at the end of the night our team would always win. In Odessa, the whole city would practically shut down early just to go to the game. Especially when it was OHS vs. Permian.

In high school we moved from west texas to north texas. Just wasn't the same, not my team and not my town. But, I made it my own. I will forever be an Arlington Colt. Colts take great pride of their school, and I've recently found that I work with two former Colts.

Well tonight, I'm going to the homecoming of my kids future school. We are taking our girls with us. This will be the start of a great family past time. Friday night football games. Just can't beat that.

The Week in Pictures

A Los Angeles County firefighter monitors a wildfire as it approaches homes.

How Embarrasing...

This is hilarious, I couldn't stop laughing.

What about me?

Anything a first-born child does is a big deal. They get all the attention. That's why many first-born kids end up with a lot of natural confidence.

Did you know...

That almost all of the U.S. Presidents were either the first-born child or the first-born son in their families?
All but two of the first astronauts sent into space were first-borns, and the other two were "only children"?

The 2nd child doesn't ususally get the special first-born treatment. Like when, Isabel first said "mama" it was a big-time event. But when Emma said mama for the first time, it just didn't pack the same "wow." I hear this is why many middle and youngest children find fewer photos of them in the family photo albums, or at least fewer photos of them by themselves.

I am so guilty of this. I had Isabel's scrapbook done by her birthday. Here I am 18 days after Emma's birthday and only 4 pages have been done. She's said mama countless times, but I didn't call everyone on the planet to let them know.

So I will redeem myself today. Emma is only 12 months old and already singing to a cd. Ok, it's alot of DO, LA, and TI's and not words, but techically DO, RE, MI, etc is music. And any sound she makes is music to my ears. Plus she can say mama, point to objects that she wants, and will imitate someone sneezing, plus many many other cool things. I'd write them all down, but I'd take 2 days.

Unclaimed Property

Click here to see if you have any money that you haven't claimed in the state of Texas.
I searched every family member name and my uncle has $4628.00 owed to him by a former employer. My co-worker has $200.00 owed to him by TXU. And 2 people who work with Eddie had money from a former job and a insurance company. Check it out.

What to say?

I haven't had much to say in the last couple of days, although I done alot of things.
Here's a run down.

Oct 14: Eddie's birthday, Red Lobster (all you can eat shrimp, eventhough I hate shrimp) and saw the movie "Two for the Money"

Oct 15: Went to 2 parties. Housewarming and 1yr old.. Great food at both parties, but tired by the end of the day. Although I wish I could have taken out my fustrations on the pinata when I had the chance.

Oct 16: Church, and me and the girls visited Eddie at the station. Never fails when they get visitors, they get call after call after call. Eddie says I'm now banned from visiting ever again.

Oct 17: Today... Work and more work.. Our Pastor and wife came over for dinner. They are very good friends. We had a good time. I haven't heard from the girls in 2 hours. They are asleep.. Hope Emma feels better tomorrow, because she caught Isabel's cold.

Oct 18: Tomorrow is a new day.

Harriet Meyers

(I think that's the way you spell her name)

Anyways, I'm not one who is overly interested in politics. Something about this nominee has caught my attention. I heard a discussion yesterday on the Scott Wilder show. It was a guy saying that he trusted Bush, so for him he trusted his decision on the nominee. His reasoning was "how could Bush make a mistake on something as important as this?" and "He's known her for 15 years, he trust her".

Whatever! You know nothing about this nominee. Just because Bush is a Christian, and conservative, does not mean that he's infallable.

I do hope this is the right decision, but if it's not, I will feel sorry for Bush and Harriet. Bush, because he'll never live it down, and Harriet, because she'll have wasted all this time going through a gruelling senate conformaiton hearing without anything to show for it.

Only time will tell.

Fair Tax

Have you heard of the Fair Tax. If not there is a book out called The Fair Tax Book
you can read more about it on www.fairtax.org
Anyways, I've been hearing more and more about this, and from what I gather it's a good thing.

A family of four making $100,000 per year
Under the FairTax, a 36.8% increase in spendable income

Check it out. http://www.fairtax.org/tax_returns_family.html

Tummy Ache

Isabel awoke this morning at 2:30 am with a tummy ache and fever. I had no pepto bismo. She got up and went pee pee and then was eager to take her medicine (Tylenol) for the fever she had.

Then this morning Eddie calls asking me if I had given her applesauce. Yes, why?, because it has mold in it. Oh crap, I've poisoned my child. Oh wait, did you say glass jar? I gave her some out of the new plastic jar.

Thank God, I didn't poision her, I would have felt really bad.

The Prayer Monitor

All the 2 and 3 year olds are seated around a table, ready to began eating breakfast.
The sunday school teacher begins.

"Let's Pray"

All the kiddos put their hands together and close their eyes. The prayer begins.
Isabel, only has her eyes half way closed and looks around to make sure everyone else has there eyes closed.

She looks to her left and says
"Close your eyes, Angelica"....

The Human Pinata

My nephew Jacob got a roll of wrapping paper and started hitting me are the arm with it.

Jacob (5 years old): You're a pinata, I'm trying to get the candy out of you.
Isabel (my 2 year old): Her name not Pinata, her Mommy.

Thanks for coming to my rescue Isabel

A thousand thanks, (ok only 8)

Just wanted to say thank you!

For cooking dinner
For cleaning the kitchen
For folding the clothes
For feeding the girls
For picking up the living room
For installing the hook in the bathroom
For letting me get the my much needed sleep
For thinking of me.

I love you Eddie.

Just like Papa!

Last night, while watching TV, Isabel hears and spots a ambulance on the screen.

Look! Firefighter
That's right, Isabel
Just like Papa!

I think it's time that we take a trip to Eddie station so she can see him at work.
I think she'll love getting on the firetruck and ambulance.

EMI Custom Cabinetry

Eddie Valenzula
Firefighter
214-597-5721

Free Estimates DFW Metro area.

Click on the image for a larger view.

Marriage: What does it take?

Marriage Article

I'm not waiting another minute

It takes 10 minutes to get from my garage onto I-20.
It takes 5 minutes to get from I-20 to Cooper
It takes 10 minutes to get from cooper to my sitters house.
It takes 4 minutes to unload the girls
It was taking me 3 minutes at the light on Sanford and Fielder...
That's 3 minutes too long.
It's 6:30 in the morning, no traffic and I'm sitting there like a dummy waiting for the light to turn green. Should I take the red light. Crap I'm going to be late, oh wait I'm already late.. well I'm going to be super late. Ok, no cars and hopefully no cops...
Alright I'm taking it. I peel out and take the left turn. I look back, no blue and red lights. That's a good sign. I get on I-30 and now I'm thinking I'm home free.
That was a close one. I'm glad I didn't get pulled over, since now I realized that I would have gotten 3 tickets.

One for running the red light,
One for no seat belt
One for no insurance card (cause I have no idea where it's at)

Lesson for the day...

Cut throught the parking lot next time.

Misunderstading....

Yesterday we took Emma to the doctor to get her shots, and also to get checked out because she had had a fever and a rash.

This is what the doctor said she had:

Coxsackieviruses and other enteroviruses. Symptoms include a rash that develops after fever or blisters.

not to be confused with
Kawasaki disease. Symptoms include a persistent five–day fever, rash (red lesions or blisters), red eyes, swollen lymph nodes in the neck, swelling fingers and toes, as well as a red tongue, lips and throat.

They sounded so similar... I kept telling people she had Kawasaki... She doesn't she has Coxsackie.

I feel so much better now.

Become Debt-Free

DAVE RAMSEY'S PLAN

Budgeting and self-control are key to becoming debt free. Spend less than you make. Tell your money where to go instead of wondering where it went. That’s the Dave Ramsey Plan.

To calculate your savings we’ll follow what we call the “Baby Steps.” There are 7 Steps and we’ll use all of them but Step 5 since we don’t know whether or not you have, or plan to have, children.


1. $1,000 in an Emergency Fund
2. Pay off all debt (except the house) utilizing the “Debt Snowball”
3. 3-6 months expenses in savings for emergencies
4. Fully fund 15% into pre-tax retirement plans and ROTH IRA, if eligible
5. College funding
6. Pay off home early
7. Build wealth!

The faster you get out of debt, the more you can save. The best tool for building wealth is your income. If your income is tied up making credit card and mortgage payments for the rest of your life, that’s less money you have to save.

We have seen that when someone starts to budget, they can reduce their monthly expenses by an average of 10%. To determine your Monthly Expenses we subtract your housing, consumer debt and savings payments from your income. Getting an extra job delivering pizzas can speed up the process by increasing your income. A single person could add $500 a month to their income and a married couple could add $1000 to their income if they both got extra jobs. Because we do not know your marital status, we assume an average of $750 a month for extra income from an extra job(s).

Step 1
Monthly Savings contributions are halted. We then take your Monthly Savings contributions, the 10% trimmed from Monthly Expenses and the $750 Extra Income and use it to save $1000 for a Beginner Emergency Fund.

A Beginner Emergency Fund will help you keep your head above water while you're getting out of debt. As soon as you start this journey, life will happen. Murphy's Law goes into effect. Murphy might even move in with you.

Step 2
We take your Monthly Savings contributions, the 10% trimmed from Monthly Expenses and the $750 Extra Income and add it to your Monthly Consumer Debt payment until we pay off all of your Consumer Debt.

Step 3
We save up 3 months of expenses using all of the money that was going towards paying off your Consumer Debt. This is your Fully Funded Emergency Fund. This can save you if you are ever out of work for a period of time or a serious illness affects you or someone in your family.

Step 4
Now that your Consumer Debt has been paid off and you have a Fully Funded Emergency Fund, we assume you take a well deserved break and drop the Extra Job(s) and raise your Monthly Expenses by 10%. At this point, we’ll start saving 15% of your Monthly Income, unless the Monthly Savings you entered was higher than 15%.

Step 5
We’re omitting Step 5 since we don’t know whether or not you have, or plan to have, children.

Step 6
Pay off the house. We take the Monthly Savings Contributions you entered and subtract from it the 15% we’re now saving. The remainder is added to the Mortgage Payment(s) until you own the house.

Step 7
Once your house is paid off, we add the Mortgage Payment(s) to your Monthly Savings. If there are any remaining balances on the Consumer Debt or Mortgage(s) at age 65, we subtract those balances from the Savings total before presenting the final number.


Realistically, “Dave’s Plan” is ridiculously low considering that we assume you never get a raise – imagine what that could do to your savings!

The basic principle here is if you save more than you spend, and aren’t in debt your whole life, you will have considerably more money than if you “charge it” and tie up your income paying it all back with interest, DUH!

Dave Ramsey

I've been listening to Dave Ramsey on the word fm 100.7 from 2-4 pm. www.daveramsey.org
Catch him sometime... you can listen online or through podcast also.
www.thewordfm.com. He is the author of several books including "The Total Money Makeover"

Ummm Good

Within the last couple of days we have been making tea in our house thanks to Dixie who had tea at her house everyday. I've made Lipton Summer Peach tea, and yesterday Eddie made some Camomille for Emma.

As we are sitting watching TV, Isabel comes over.

I want some tea (So I give her some peach tea)
Um good.

Five minutes later...

"I want some tea"
"Go drink some of daddy's tea" (camomille)
She wanders over to Eddie and drinks some of his tea.
"that good". she says
(then she points to my tea)
"that good good".

Don't you people hear me?

Yesterday Eddie was with the girls cause Emma had a fever.

Isabel: I want leigo.
Eddie: What
Isabel: I want leigo
Eddie: What?
Isabel: Lei go
Eddie: I don't understand what you're saying.
Isabel: (a big sigh)


When I got home....
Eddie: What was Isabel trying to say, she said something about Leigo.
Me: She wants to watch Diego.

Listen carefully....

My friend Dixie was watching Isabel and Emma while we went on our tubing ride.

Isabel: I want some cheche
Dixie: What?
Isabel: I want some cheche
Dixie: What? say it again
Isabel: CHE CHE
Dixie: Oh, you want some leche?
Isabel: Yeah cheche.

Canyon Lake

Unofficially has become our retirement destination. Great lake, clear, warm water, great view. Just outside of New Braunfels. Can't wait until retirement. Gotta long way to go.

Happy Birthday Emma

My baby girl Emma officially turned 1 on Saturday. We had a family gathering at our house. It was great. Emma, it was a great year. I look forward to the coming year and to seeing all of the new things that you will learn.
I love you.

Hello All.

Back from my week vacation. I'll be updating this blog to tell of my adventures soon.

Calgon take me away

I've had a rough 2 days, worked 2 hours extra, family in from Houston, dinner at 8 o clock, I'm exhausted, I haven't even packed yet, and I've got to get up at 5:00am. I'm packing tomorrow. I'm exhausted.

If my head wasn't screwed on, part 2

This morning was disasterous. I couldn't find anything. I was looking for all of Isabel's underwear (all 12), then my badge (still lost), then the sippy cups, then my mission friend material (still lost)...
Got to work, in jeans and a t-shirt and didn't realize it was a site visit day.
So I called Eddie to bring me some clothes, he did, but forgot the shoes.
Multi-colored plaid Converse don't exactly go with my outfit, so at 10 o'clock I rushed to the Payless and bought the cutes slip-on's. I was back in 15 min, record shopping time for me.

Good things that happened this morning.
I solved the problem that I was haveing yesterday with some code I was writing.
My parking space was still open when I got back from Payless.

Today is a good day.

Don't try to tempt me... it won't work

We're having to save for taxes that are due at the end of the year. Because of our our lack to discipline to do it throughout the year, we are not going to be able to do anything for the rest of the year. That means no Christmas. Oh well, Christmas is about giving not receiving right? So instead of us spending hundreds of dollars in gift for others, I think we'll give of our time and do some volunteer work.

Satan keeps putting in the back of my mind that the amount of money we need is the amount of our tithe for the rest of the year. Whatever! My God will provide. With his help and our hard work, we will get the money to pay the taxes.

Malachi 3:10-12
10 Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. Test me in this," says the LORD Almighty, "and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that you will not have room enough for it. 11 I will prevent pests from devouring your crops, and the vines in your fields will not cast their fruit," says the LORD Almighty. 12 "Then all the nations will call you blessed, for yours will be a delightful land," says the LORD Almighty.

Piojos (pe o hos)

Spanish for lice.... dreaded words you don't want to hear from your babysitter. Let alone when she's talking about your 11 month old.

What? Where? Who? How?... questions that are swarming through my head.

Needless to say they were gone within the next 2 hours. Although I spent the entire day Saturday cleaning there room from ceiling to floor and washing everything.

No Pull ups on this kid.....

Isabel had 4 accidents at church on Sunday. Her teacher asked me if I could bring her in a pull up next week. My first thought is "no". I don't want her to think that it's ok to go in a pull up and that just because she's at church doesn't mean that she can play and play and forget to go potty. Even if I have to sit with her in class, I'm not putting her in a pull up. In my opinion pull ups are for those who are too lazy and who don't want to be inconvienced with carrying extra clothes and washing countless of underwear a day. I don't care if I'm inconvienced. Hey they were the ones who were pushing to have the kids potty trained so they wouldn't have to change diapers in class. You've made your bed, now.....

3 am call

It's 3:30 am, my eyes are glued shut.

"MOMMMMMMY, I GOTTA GO POTTY! I GOTTA GO POTTY"

Eddie took her, I was blind at the time, and would have done serious
harm to myself If I had attempted to get out of bed in the dark.
I hope this is the first of many nighttime potty episodes.
This will mean that we will be able to get rid of the night night panties (pull-ups)

Noah's Ark

Noah's Ark Matching Game

Cry Out To Jesus

If you haven't heard Third Day's new song "Cry Out To Jesus", I highly recommend you hear it. You can download a free copy of their song on Third Day's Website

Baby Talk

Yesterday when I picked up the girls I walked in a Isabel yelled out "Mommy!" (like she does everyday). I said "Hi Isabel, give me a hug". Then Emma yelled out "Ahhhhh!"(mommy). I said "Hi Emma, give me a hug". I love all the new words Emma is learning. There's "Ahhhhh", "Nana, Nana", "Ehhhhhhh", "Papapapa". I love baby talk.

IF...THEN

In this weeks Sunday School lesson, Eddie used my job as an analogy.
He said that computers are dumb boxes, and that they required instructions. For example...I tell the computer, "IF the user clicks on this button, THEN submit the application.". Well the Bible is full of instructions for us. We are sheep, and sheep are the dumbest animals on the earth. God has to give us instructions.
"IF you sin, THEN you will pay the consequences". God gives us chance after chance after chance to change our ways. Just like when you are going to delete an email, the computer asks "Are you sure, you want to delete?" If you say yes, the message is put into the recycle bin. And even then it can still be recovered. That's how God is, he gives us chance after chance to repent (turn from our sin). Just like Isreal, he kept telling them to change and they wouldn't. He said change or I'm going to let the Babylonians take over your country. But they wouldn't. He tells us the same thing. He says, people of the U.S. change, or I'm going to allow bad things to happen to you. Like terrorism, floods, hurricanes, earthquakes, fires. When are we as a nation going to heed his warnings? We need to change as a nation, and as individuals.

Anyways, I thought it was cool how he related my job to the study. Here's a good one.


IF you accept Christ as Lord and Savior THEN
you will go to heaven
ELSE IF you don't accept Christ as Lord and Savior THEN
you will go to hell
END IF

How do you do this?
A. Admit that you are a sinner.
B. Believe that Jesus Christ died and was raised from the dead and lives today.
C. Change your life and commit to following Christ

Race Relations

This weekend I saw two movies. "Crash" and "Guess Who".
"Guess Who" was a comedy about a black girl who brings her white financee home to meet her parents. This movie was funny.
"Crash" is about all these people of different races who are intertwined. It's about stereotypes and how some people of America view other races. Although it had nudity, and profanity, the movie was good. Watch this one when the kids are asleep.

It reminds me of a time when Eddie lost his blockbuster card, and had to go talk to the police at blockbuster because someone had used his card and had not brought any of the movies back, of course. Well they had the guy on tape. He had a fade, and was Mexican. Well Eddie had a fade and is Mexican. Perfect description. Before Eddie went up there, I told him to go in wearing his paramedic uniform. That made the world of difference, they put a hold on his account and issued him a new card. Eddie said that the video wasn't clear, anybody could have mistaken the person in the video for him. I wonder if he had gone in wearing jeans, a t-shirt would it have been harder for him to clear his name? Things that make you go Hmmmmm.

Man of Respect

"Her husband is respected at the city gate..." Proverbs 31:23

Eddie received his evaluation from his captain yesterday. The captain went on and on about how great Eddie was. He retold a story about how Eddie performed many jobs and single-handedly put out a house fire that would have taken 5 men. He gave many examples of how Eddie used his skills and said that Eddie was a valuable part of the department. Eddie you are not afraid of hard work. I'm so proud of you. You da man!

Emma I like playing with you.

Each day when I pick up the girls, Isabel says "I want to sing 'Together'". She has a cd that is personalized with her name. The first song is entitled, "Let's spend the day together". Throughout the song it repeats her name.

Let's spend the day together
Isabel I like playing with you

Well yesterday Isabel was being really nice to Emma, so instead of singing her name, she would insert Emma's name in all the parts of the song.
Also at dinner, she was feeding Emma macrononi and cheese it was too cute.

She's so thoughtful.

Dec 13 - Test Date

The Richardson Fire Department has announced that the test day for the Promotional exaime will be December 13. Please continuously pray that Eddie will have the time to study, have the ability to retain all of the knowledge, and will be able to pull that knowledge from his brain to get a perfect score on the test.

Moving on up

Isabel has moved out of the toddler bed and into the futon.
Although it looks big for her room, because of all the other furniture, it's great. It's low to the ground, firm mattress and she loves it.
Hopefully for her birthday we can get her a twin bed so that we can put the futon back upstairs.

My heart breaks

Lord I pray that you will reunite these children with their families.

Photos of more than two dozen children found in Louisiana were posted on the organization's Web site (http://www.missingkids.com/), together with sometimes scanty information available about them. There was also an entry for one child without a picture.

One entry about a little boy apparently too small to speak properly reads: "His name may be Neiamaya or Jeremiah. His date of birth is unknown; however, he is believed to be about 2 years old."

A five-month-old baby, named Jordan Barnes, was also among the children. He was transferred from a hospital in New Orleans to Baton Rouge General Hospital due to Katrina but his mother's whereabouts were unknown

Work as if unto the Lord

Ok,

Last week, my boss Jeff gave everyone a book to read "The Five Disfunction of a Team", which I'm still in the process of reading.
This morning I have listened to two sermons concerning work and your job.

Ok God, I hear you. If I haven't told you in a while, I so appreciate the job you have given me. I will strive to work and do my best like if I'm working for you. I will make every minute of my day here a work glorify you. You are the CEO of my life. Thank you for a boss who genuinely care for his employees and is fair.
Ok, gotta get back to work now.

I'm the map, I'm the map

Eddie has learned the entire map of Richardson, and can draw it.
He's been studing, because hopefully within the next week or so the fire department will annouce the test date for promotions. Eddie says he's heard that they want to have the test in December before Christmas. As a firefighter, he will promote to Driver Engineer. That is the one who's main job is to drive the fire engine and control all the pumps. Anyways I know he's going to get it. Basically there are 4 spots open and the 4 who score the highest on the written test and the map combined get the job.

This is a major prayer request. Please be praying for Eddie for the next few months that he will learn all the material, and will score 100 on his test.

No more diapers

Isabel is on day 2 of "No more diapers". She didn't even want me to put a pull up on her at night. But I had to tell her that they were her night night panties. I don't want her wetting the bed just yet. After a couple of weeks when I know she's got the hang of going to the potty, we'll try to do the no pull ups at night.
My little girl is growing up..

Renquist Dies..

Wow, I just found out. I've been out of the news loop for the past couple of days. I haven't even seen anything on TV, but then I haven't watched much TV. I wonder who the next nominee will be. Can't wait to find out.

I'm crying too.

Today I began really potting training Isabel. No diapers. Not because I wanted to, but because she wanted to. She found the little book that goes with her Potty Elmo and I read it to her. She said "Elmo Potty". I went into the storage and found her potty Elmo doll and his potty. All morning and afternoon, she would take Elmo to potty and would sit on her porta-potty too. After she awoke from her nap I said you want to go potty? I think I scare her, because she began to whine. She sat on the potty, but didn't go, she hadn't gone all day. I picked her up off of the potty and held her in my arms. Emma on the other hand was in kitchen whining as well. I told Isabel, "I've got to go get Emma because she's crying"... Isable replied "I'm crying too".. I said "yes you are", so I held her a little longer until she was distracted by Elmo again.

10 minutes later she used the bathroom in her panties. Just an accident, since they were wet, she couldn't put them back on... She's sitting on the potty now, trying to poo-poo.. Hopefully she'll go...

Control Freaks

Defining the behaviors

Micromanagers get a bad wrap-most often as "control freaks."

They exercise raw power — Micromanagers love to flex their muscles-asserting their power and authority just because they can.

They dictate time — Micromanagers like to control and manipulate others' time. They don't trust people to assess their own workload, so they routinely dictate priorities and distort deadlines.

They control how work gets done — Micromanagers want everything to be done their way. After all, the boss knows best-or so they think. They dismiss others' knowledge, experience, and ideas-no matter how good-then hover over them to make sure they're doing things "right."

If you are a Micromanager, please stop, it drives people crazy.

If you are a micromanager or control freak then this article pertains to you. If not, you have nothing to worry about....

(Jeff it's definately NOT you)

Too close to home

A coworker has family to lived in New Orleans. Thank God that they made it to Dallas in time, but they have no home to go to. Please pray for Jeannie's family as they try to rebuild their lives and homes. Also pray for all the other people whose lives have been affected by this hurricane.

Goodbye friend

I have a friend who I've know for about 3 years. We met at the church that I now attend. This friend grew up in the Catholic church. She came to know our church through our Pastor's wife, Noemi. They work is the same field. Noemi helped her by finding her a place to live, rent free, so that she could go back to school to get her Masters. She even lived with Pastor and Noemi. Durning her time at La Luz (my church), she would always complain about having to serve in the nursery, or various other ministries. She never seemed joyful. Last year, she started having doubts, and left our church, and cut all social ties with Noemi, eventhough she still worked for her. This year, for Lisa, has been filled with having a boyfriend and going out and attending a Catholic Church. I saw her one last time on Friday, and you know what, eventhough she may be having the time of her life partying and staying out until 4 in the morning, she still doesn't seem joyful.

The worldly things are only temporary and can only bring temporary happiness The only way you are ever going to find happiness is through serving the Lord with your heart and not out of obligation. I hope one day you realize that, and find the happiness and joyfullness that you are seeking.

Farewell Lisa.

Talk to Belle

Lately when we are in the car, and I'm talking to whoever is in the passenger seat or talking on the phone. Isabel will yell out "Mommy, talk to Belle"
Ok, Ok, I'll pay more attention to you in the car. Today's topic will be "Who makes the best nuggets? McDonalds or Burger King?"

No Cell Phones Allowed

Is the sign I should have posted on the front door of my house. Tony's cousin arrived late right when the wedding started. When the door opens and closes it makes a beeping sound. Interruption 1 and 2. Then the cousin sits and his phone rings. He get up and goes outside. That's 3 and 4. He walks back in and sits down. That's 5 and 6. Now I'm thinking I want to take that cell phone and throw it in the toilet. Other than that the ceremony was nice.

Here Comes the Bride - Here Comes the Bride - Here Comes the Bride

Saturday was the big event at our house. The living room furniture was packed in the office, the wood floors were mopped and white tool with roses filled the room.
As guest arrived, the people in the kitchen were making last minute preparations.
7:25 arrives, the bride is ready, the guests are ready, and I'm so ready.
I give the signal to Eddie to hit play on the iPod. The classical version of "Everything I do (I do it for you)" starts to fill the house. Isabel and I walk to our places. Eddie starts to play "Here comes the bride"... Everyone stands, stares at the staircase, but no bride. He plays it again. My mom goes up the stairs to find out what's going on. He plays it again. Here she comes, holding her crying 5 year old kid in her arms. Ok, so he was serious when he told everyone that he was getting married. He stood at the front with his mama and daddy as they got married. How sweet.

Things you say to scare your kids...

As a child here are some of the things that I though were true only to find out that they are not...

# If you flip your eyelid up it's going to stay like that.
# If you swallow your gum, it stays in your stomach for 7 years
# If you swallow a watermelon seed, you will grow a watermelon in your tummy
# Don't get close to a horney toad, because it will spit blood in your eye and you can go blind.
# If you stay in the bathtub too long, you're going to get too wrinkling and your skin will stay that way.
# Don't sit too close to the TV because you are going to go blind
# If you cross your eyes for too long they will stay that way.


What about you, what did your parents say to scare you?

Curtains 101

Who knew that hanging curtains could be so hard. I hung some curtains in my dining room with the help of my mother-in-law and neighbor. I couldn't have done it without them. Although Eddie was against the idea of drilling into our beautiful trim, there was no way around it. I learned alot about hanging curtains although they should offer a class on it in college.

The end result is beautiful. I can't wait until Eddie finishes building the mantle and begins to build our table.

I need that table before Thanksgiving, or we'll be eating on the floor.

Starbucks Hates Kids

Starbucks are now on my boycott list.

Starbucks: A habit easily broken by Meghan Kleppinger
via WorldNetDaily.com

Wow, Cool, Awesome

"Vamanos, Let's go, Come on, Hurry up"

Isabel says as we are heading over to grandma's house.

No more CVS

Revelation 16-17
He also forced everyone, small and great, rich and poor, free and slave, to receive a mark on his right hand or on his forehead, 17so that no one could buy or sell unless he had the mark, which is the name of the beast or the number of his name.

We are so moving to this each and everyday.

Yesterday I went to CVS.
Do you have your CVS card?
No
Here's another one.
I don't want another one
What's your phone number
Why?
You need a card to make the transaction
My old phone number is xxx-xxx-xxxx
Here's your new card.
I don't want a new card
Just take it and throw it away.
You throw it away, I don't want a card

Lady behind me, "It's just to save you money"
I don't care, I don't want a card


I should be able to go into a store without having to present a card. I'm boycotting CVS for life.

Pink Ladies

Remeber the pink ladies from Grease? Well my two girls are pink ladies, but not because of the color of their jackets, but because the color of their eyes.
Hopefully the doctor will call in one prescription $30 as opposed to wanting to see them both and getting 2 prescriptions $120

Puppy Love

First boyfriend... hope Daddy wasn't watching :)

I want to sing

Isabel has started to like singing by herself. If I try to sing with her, she yell "I want to sing". Sometimes she'll say "Mommy, sing Bubble", so I'll begin to sing "bubbles", thinking she's going to join me. No, she starts to sing "Spaghetti". She just did that so that I wouldn't be singing the same song she wants to sing. Smartie Pants.

Highway Robbery

I think I'm going to have to start telecommuting 1 day a week.

"Gracias Papa"

Last night was smooth. Arrived home at 8:30, Emma was out. I threw Isabel in the tub and let her play until she was done. Durning this time, I was watching her from my room, while I scrapbooked. I looked up and saw that she was standing.
"Sit down Isabel".. She quickly grabbed the cup before she sat. Sneaky little thing.
After the bath, we said our goodnights and she promptly got into bed to watch Elmo.
Later, before we went to bed Eddie covered her up. She awoke and said "Gracias Papa" and closed her eyes again.

I gave a testimony on Sunday about the characteristics of a Proverbs 31 woman, and how I lacked in this area. But through this realization, I committed to trying my best. If I remain obedient to God and his Word, he will continue to bless me. Indeed he has, by the wonderful children and husband he has provided me with.
"Gracias Papa!"

"Love the Ones You're With"

"Love the Ones You're With"

Renee Swope
Director of Proverbs 31 Speaker Team

Key Verse:
Ephesians 5:1, "Be imitators, therefore, as dearly loved children and live a life of love." (NIV)

Devotion:
When you're with the ones you love, do you love the ones you're with? I am embarrassed to admit it, but there are times when I'm with my family but my mind is somewhere else, getting something done!

I realized this one night while we were all watching a movie. It looked like we were spending quality time together as a family. I was there physically, but I was returning phone calls and emails mentally. I glanced at the clock to see how many hours before bedtime, when I could get some work done, and noticed the silhouette of my son's face. I was struck by how grown-up he looked. How quickly ten years had passed! It made me think, it won't be long before he's counting down the hours until I go to bed, so he can instant message or get on the phone with his friends. That's when I recognized the gift of being with the ones I love and loving the ones I'm with, while they're still with me.

Jesus knew His time with the ones He loved was limited. He valued the years He had here and was very intentional about loving each and every person He was with. Jesus didn't see people's requests for His attention or time as interruptions, but welcomed them as invitations.

I have needed to bring this struggle to the Lord and ask Him to help me in this area. Through His Word He has challenged me to slow down and spend more time being with my husband and my children. He has helped me see that they are the most important people in my life, yet I can easily allow my time with them to get crowded out by my need to "do" things.

What about you? How often are you just with the ones you love - no agendas, no errands, no planning - just being? How often do you laugh together, watch movies together or go out for ice cream? Do your children really know you? How well do you know them?

One thing I did to train my mind to cherish the time I have with the ones I love is to look into their faces and remember what they used to look like. That helps me grasp how quickly time passes. Then I imagine a day they may not be here; the day they might live in another state with their own families; the day I will long for them to call and tell me what they have been doing since we last talked. Sometime I even think back to what life was like without them. That jolts my memory and makes me so grateful for the gift God has given me in them.

Our tasks and "to do lists" will always be here. We will never have a day with nothing to do, but the ones we love will not always be with us. Our relationships are our most important investments and, like Jesus, we can make deposits that will last for eternity! My prayer is that you will join me in slowing down to be with the ones you love and loving the ones you are with!

MY Prayer for Today:
Lord, I thank You for the gifts You have given me to love - even when they are hard to love, even when I feel like I don't have time to enjoy them. Help me to slow down and see them through Your eyes. Help me to treasure the time I have with them as the greatest gift I will ever be given. Remind me that the only thing that will last for eternity is my relationship with You and my relationships with others. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

I needs me one of those...

Experimental Hybrid Cars Get Up to 250 Mpg

University of California, Davis engineering professor Andy Frank built a plug-in hybrid from the ground up in 1972 and has since built seven others, one of which gets up to 250 mpg. They were converted from non-hybrids, including a Ford Taurus and Chevrolet Suburban.

Frank has spent $150,000 to $250,000 in research costs on each car, but believes automakers could mass-produce them by adding just $6,000 to each vehicle's price tag.

So far, DaimlerChrysler AG is the only company that has committed to building its own plug-in hybrids, quietly pledging to make up to 40 vans for U.S. companies. But Toyota Motor Corp. officials who initially frowned on people altering their cars now say they may be able to learn from them.

I hope Toyota and Honda jump on this bandwagon too. The first van that come out as a plug-in hybrid, I'm trading my Sienna in that day.

Nugget, Where are you?

Loba made it back home, but Nugget didn't. I hope he's not hurt somewhere. Pray that he is found.

Glad I live in Texas

I hope this doesn't happen here.

Because Of You

Don’t ever sell short what God can do “because of you.”

It means simply what it says: “…because of you…”
because of who you are
because of how you live
because of the way your faith affects everything you do
because of the way you carry on your life
because of the reality of Christ in your life.

That’s it. No more; but certainly, no less. Paul is suggesting that living your life with a sense of purpose that comes from your faith in God is enough to convert someone.

It occurs to me that this could be applied to all believers in relation to life in the world among people with whom we work and associate who are not believers. General rule: don’t leave the world. (Where would you go, anyway?) Stay in the world – in relationships with unbelievers – for the chance that someone may be converted “because of you.”


(1 Corinthians 7:16).

What Your Husband Wants

Affection
Approval
Appreciation

A loving, tranquil home. (no nagging)

Go home and give your husband and kiss and hug and tell your husband that you love him, you appreciate all the hard work he does.

From the book:
The Proper Care and Feeding of Husbands

(from a radio program Focus on the Family)

Unusual

It's unusual...
That we have our staff meeting on Thurday
That I pay my babysitter on Thursday
That I eat dinner with my sister on Thurday

So it's not unusual that I think it's actually Friday.

I woke up this morning an hour late because last night I thought it was Friday. But as I was dreaming, Eddie told me otherwise. I jump out of bed, and immediately called my boss. I hate when that happens. It's nice that I got to sleep in, but when I get to work I feel that I've wasted my whole morning...

Oh well. Tonight is Friday Night.... Yeah.

The ? Song

On Elmo's World whatever the topic is about (ie. Birds), Elmo will sing a song about it. He says "Let's sing the Bird song". Then to the tune of Jingle Bells he sings

"Bird, Bird, Bird,"
"Bird, Bird, Bird,"
"Bird, Bird, Bird, Bird Bird"

Now with Isabel, she if we say sing the Baby Song or the Dinosaur Song or the whatever song. She'll sing using whatever word we substitue to the tune of jingle bells.

So Cute.

Back To School - Back to Sleep

I can't believe another summer is almost over. Last night we gave out school supplies to some inner city kids. Next week we are going to have our last backyard bible study with these same kids, so we're going to have a party. Most of these kids has now started attending our church, this summer was a great success.
If you've never participated in a mission project, I highly recommend it. The benefits are great. This December we are going to visit an orphanange. Isabel doesn't know it yet, but most of her stuffed animals will be donated. Not that I don't like stuffed animals, but with her allergies they do more harm than good. She'll for sure keep her Elmos. Last night was another successful night at putting Isabel to sleep. I think we are on a winning streak. I now have my sleep back.

Random Thoughts

Last Night...

Well I put Isabel and Emma in bed at 8:15 they are watching Elmo, hopefully Isabel fee asleep. I know that Emma is asleep. Just finished watching a new show from ABC family called "Beautiful People" I liked it. It will become one of my DVR events. I missed the first 30 minutes. But guess what it's showing again. Yeah!

Fastfoward to today...

Didn't finish watching the show. Isabel was calling saying that her hour long video was finished. I proceeded to get into bed with her, because she asked. I feel like Buddy the Elf, you know from the movie. We really need to get her a twin bed.
I'll look into it.

Somebody give me a gun...

I want to shoot somebody, specifically my sister. I called her this morning and asked her if she locked the gate. "No, but the latches are on, that's all that counts right?".... "Uh, no... don't you think that Loba is smart enough to get out?"

I ran by her house this morning to put the lock on the gate. The gate was wide open with no dogs in sight.

Lord, please bring them home again. I promise I'll take all precaution to see that they don't get out again. Microchiping, 15 ft fence, barbed wire, you name it I'll do it.

They're Back

Last Monday night, my sister called to tell me that my dogs had escaped from the back yard for a second time. I really didn't have the money to get them out of the shelter, assuming that the shelter would find them. I visted both shelters in Arlington and Grand Prairie to see if they were there. Then I would call everyday. I was a little concerned, but I told God that if he wanted me to get the dogs back then he was the only one who knew where they were at. He'd either have to lead me to them, lead the dog catcher to them or find them another good home. Either way I would be content in knowing that God had a plan.

Well guess what. Saturday night my sister went to her house and they were in the back yard. We still don't know how they got there. We are thinking that they found their way back home and that the neighbor might have let them in. Anyways, God is so cool. Now question becomes should I get them microchiped in case this happen again. It will cost $50 a piece. Ouch.

Hidden Talent

Your Hidden Talent

You are both very knowledgeable and creative. You tend to be full of new ideas and potential - big potential. Ideas like yours could change the world, if you build them. As long as you don't stop working on your dreams, you'll get there.

What's Your Hidden Talent?

Asleep at last, Asleep at last...

For the last week I've been at battle with Isabel and her willingness to fall asleep in her bed. This has been a problem ever since we took the pacifer away from her 3 weeks ago.
Last night, she didn't even want to enter the hallway that led to her bedroom. She kicked and screamed. I finally got her to calm down and lie in her bed. I layed on the floor next to her bed and put my feet on her bed and she put her feet on top of mine.

Tonight, she said goodnight to Papa, went to the bathroom, we read 2 stories, drank some milk and went to bed. As we were walking to her room she said "Mommy, you sleep on floor, ok?" I stayed for about 5 minutes and left, with her still awake, and I haven't heard from her since. I'll check on her in the next 20 minutes. Hopefully she's knocked out.

Kate Hudson on Monogomy

Just read an article talking about Kate Hudson and her thoughts on monogomy

"I don't believe (monogamy) is realistic. But, I believe that we, as people, have the power to make it happen."
She added: "I will not disrespect my husband and stray."
"If for some reason, that's what he has to go do, I just don't want to know. As long as things are good in our house, just please, don't get caught."

Does she not worry about diseases, hepatitis and AIDS to name a few?
She is so naive. Sounds to me that she has very little faith in her husband, herself as a wife, and her marriage.

Love Triangle

Andres (my friends son who is almost 2) is in a love triangle between my two girls. Some days he chases and kisses Isabel (who is 3 months older than him). Lately he's been fascinated with Emma (my 10 month old). Yesterday they were sitting face to face kissing with their mouths open. Not just a peck either, but they would sit there for more than 5-10 seconds at a time.
It was too cute. Later Eddie asked Emma "Were you kissing Andres?"... She promptly shook her head no, denying the whole incident ever happened.

Rescue Me #1

"Rescue Me" is going to be a series of stories told to me by my husband who is a fireman for the City of Richardson. This story is very greusome, so don't read if you have a weak stomach.

The call came in around 3:30 in the morning, motorcycle accident. They still don't know exactly how it happened, maybe he fell asleep, maybe he was drunk, in any case he's dead.
White male, maybe in his 30's, can't tell because he was missing his head, and part of a leg.
Looks like the head got smushed into his body, and the top was blown off somehow. The head wasn't severed, it just wasn't there by any means.

Human Life at Stake

"I am pro-life," Frist maintained. "I believe life begins at conception. It is at this moment that the organism is complete — yes, immature — but complete. An embryo is nascent human life."
But in spite of that, he went on: "I also believe that embryonic stem-cell research should be encouraged and supported."

How can someone who agrees that life begins at conception, support embryoic stem cell research? Did he go brain dead? I'm posting a link to this article so that everyone can be aware that

"I don't think we can dare cross that ethical divide," Coburn said, "nor should we even consider crossing it, especially when what we're seeing is so much positive research being done with adult stem-cell research and cord blood stem-cell research."
Coburn, a medical doctor like Frist, asked: "Shouldn't we try everything else but embryonic stem-cell research first? That's the question we ought to be asking our selves, because if we're going to devalue embryos, what's next?"

What's next... I'll tell you what's next. They are going to want to start creating embryos just to destroy them. Cloning is what that is called.

"Adult stem-cell research offers the promise of cures," Swann said, "not the mere 'dream' Frist spoke of today. A dream of cures through embryonic stem-cell research is a nightmare for the unborn."

Please get informed on this issue. You can read the article in it's entirety by clicking on the link below.

http://www.family.org/cforum/feature/a0037397.cfm

The Battle Begins

The sound is ear-wrenching, at least above 160 decibles, (equivalent to a jet engine close up) and the bed is soaked with a river of tears.

Isabel cried for 1.5 hours last night when I put her to bed, with and without me in her room, with and without me holding her. At 10:00 I gave up and brought her to bed with me. (I'm so weak)
Then at 12:30, Emma woke up. This never happens. She might have had a tummy ache.
Eddie was kind enough to get up with her. (Thank You)
This morning I find one of our pillows in the crib. I guess he was trying to elevate her head, because he couldn't breath through her nose well. I had to remind him about the dangers of suffocation.

I hope tonight is better.

Score:
Screaming Toddler: 1
Hopeless Mom: 0

The Ultimate Measuring Stick

10 [c] A wife of noble character who can find? She is worth far more than rubies.
11 Her husband has full confidence in her and lacks nothing of value.
12 She brings him good, not harm, all the days of her life.
13 She selects wool and flax and works with eager hands.
14 She is like the merchant ships, bringing her food from afar.
15 She gets up while it is still dark; she provides food for her family and portions for her servant girls.
16 She considers a field and buys it; out of her earnings she plants a vineyard.
17 She sets about her work vigorously; her arms are strong for her tasks.
18 She sees that her trading is profitable, and her lamp does not go out at night.
19 In her hand she holds the distaff and grasps the spindle with her fingers.
20 She opens her arms to the poor and extends her hands to the needy.
21 When it snows, she has no fear for her household; for all of them are clothed in scarlet.
22 She makes coverings for her bed; she is clothed in fine linen and purple.
23 Her husband is respected at the city gate, where he takes his seat among the elders of the land.
24 She makes linen garments and sells them, and supplies the merchants with sashes.
25 She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come.
26 She speaks with wisdom, and faithful instruction is on her tongue.
27 She watches over the affairs of her household and does not eat the bread of idleness.
28 Her children arise and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her:
29 "Many women do noble things, but you surpass them all."
30 Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised.
31 Give her the reward she has earned, and let her works bring her praise at the city gate.


These are BIG shoes to fill. I've been married for 6 years and been a mother for 2 and I'm barely realizing the significance of this passage.

Bye Bye Dr. Trevino

doc·trine ( P ) (dktrn)n.
A principle or body of principles presented for acceptance or belief, as by a religious, political, scientific, or philosophic group; dogma.

I'm in the middle of attending the "11th annual Hispanic Women's Conference" founded by Dr. Margarita Trevino. This will be my last year. See what I didn't know was that Dr. Trevino had left her church "First Baptist in Keller" and started attending a new church called "The Wisdom Center"

Reasons for not returning:
# The conference was a general assembly instead of the usual mini conferences.
# The conference for the most part was in English with translation to Spanish, instead of all Spanish.
# There were a bunch of new speakers instead the the ones of days of old.
# They had an Anglo woman doing most of the leading of worship, trying to sing in spanish but butchering it. Although they had on the program a woman how does praise and worship in both languages. (She only sang a few songs)
# No gifts bags, but a free book from the Pastor
# The whole conference basically talked about whatever the Pastor wrote in his book. When they said turn to Chapter 24, I grabbed my bible, but realized they were talking about his book.
# The doctrine of planting a seed and reaping a harvest. Specifically $35 for a dvd, $20 for an author to sign a book, and $15,000 to help pay for next years conference.

Dr. Trevino used to be a great woman of the faith. (seems like she was just playing the part)
Now she's found the Holy Spirit, planted a $1000 seed that turned into $58000, and now all is well in her world.

Questions and Comments:
1. She had the Holy Spirit, it's not His fault she wasn't joyful, and that she had Him on a shelf.
2. The love of money is the root of all evil.
3. Jesus was not rich, and those God fearing people in the bible who were used there wealth for the Lord and realized it was all his anyway (King David)
4. The amount of money you give does not show how much you love God. Obidience to His Word does.
5. I'm going to start my own conference next year.