So I haven't blogged any updates on the status of the clomid and if it worked. And since I told everyone I wouldn't announce it till after Christmas you should know the results. It's negative all around. Darn...I was hoping this was our time.
I was even having all the symptoms. I was nauseaus (still am), a couple things of mine were sore (still are), I was (and still am) completely exhausted. So I had promising symptoms. That and I'm "late" by 5 days so now I'm confused what's going on there. =S Frustration city, man!
I also learned that I'm probably close to being clinically insane...seriously. Last Saturday I took a test and I swear I saw a faint line...same with Sunday morning (only a little more faint). Then Sunday evening I took another one and it was negative. So Monday I went in and had a blood test and negative that way too. Which means that I hallucinate and see things that don't exist.
I made a complete idiot out of myself, cause when I thought I saw the line I freaked out and told Scott, then I immediately called my mom and told her (and followed that up with a call to my sis-in-law). We were all so excited...until the tests started being negative. So I guess our last try was a bummer.
But I do have some other news that's pretty exciting. I got a new job. I'm working at the grocery store in Healy and I'm loving it. It's still my first week and I'm "in training" but I love the people I work with and I enjoy the job itself. So it's keeping me busy enough to keep my mind off of baby stuff. And now with Christmas coming up right around the corner, there's plenty planned and I get to see my family for a whole week...and even spend two nights in a hotel with only my hubby.
As disappointing as it is, I am still enjoying life, and I'm choosing to be content where God has me and with what He's given me. I choose to love Him no matter what (and no matter how angry I get in certain moments). I will always come back to Him.
God bless and have a very Merry Christmas!
Thursday, December 16, 2010
Friday, December 10, 2010
Waiting, waiting, and more waiting
Ok, I need prayer. I'm so not a patient person. I think right now my patience has come from my sis-in-law. We still know nothing pregnancy wise. I think that if I am, my body is just being weird and making ME wait until Christmas.
I really think I'm losing my sanity in this wait. I was doing so good until Wednesday of this week. I started testing on Wednesday....I KNOW....it's way to soon! I have two more tests at home and I'm planning to try and wait until Monday to take one of them. And I'm also trying to get ready in case I get a little "something" this weekend and that means the answer is for sure no.
You know, I was thinking tonight. (this is said with a good attitude I promise). With as many pregnant women as I've seen and heard of lately (and as many new babies as there are now) it really can't be that hard to get pregnant. So what are we doing wrong? I thought that I had passed my sex ed. class (yes, I just said the "s" word). But I'm really starting to wonder if they didn't teach it right, or if I just didn't pay enough attention.
Ok, I'm done venting now. I just ask that you keep praying (if anyone is even reading this). Good night and I'll let you know as soon as I can what our outcome is.
God Bless and Merry Christmas!
I really think I'm losing my sanity in this wait. I was doing so good until Wednesday of this week. I started testing on Wednesday....I KNOW....it's way to soon! I have two more tests at home and I'm planning to try and wait until Monday to take one of them. And I'm also trying to get ready in case I get a little "something" this weekend and that means the answer is for sure no.
You know, I was thinking tonight. (this is said with a good attitude I promise). With as many pregnant women as I've seen and heard of lately (and as many new babies as there are now) it really can't be that hard to get pregnant. So what are we doing wrong? I thought that I had passed my sex ed. class (yes, I just said the "s" word). But I'm really starting to wonder if they didn't teach it right, or if I just didn't pay enough attention.
Ok, I'm done venting now. I just ask that you keep praying (if anyone is even reading this). Good night and I'll let you know as soon as I can what our outcome is.
God Bless and Merry Christmas!
Wednesday, December 1, 2010
The decision was made
I know, with Thanksgiving and all, I never got back to letting anyone know what our decision was...
...drum-roll please...
....We did the clomid. Yes, it's all over now and I am in what most ttc'rs (trying to concieve) call the two-week wait. I guess I can let you all know that we should know something by Christmas...but I have to apologize, cause if it happens we aren't sharing anything until a little later. Sorry, but I just have to make sure it sticks if I am pregnant.
On a good note, I have been doing very well with this one. I have kept my mind mostly off of it (kind of...) and it didn't seem like such a chore this time. It was actually kind of exciting. So maybe this is our time. The biggest change? The fact that if I'm not pregnant, I'm gonna be ok with it. I have at least one more shot with the clomid, so we'll discuss possibly doing it again at some point.
So I guess I'm now either pregnant or not and it's just a waiting game. So instead of praying for it to work, we must pray for my sanity...seriously. But anyway...I guess that's enough of that. And I gotta go charge my camera battery so that I can put pics on here and on my facebook page.
Love to ya'll! Merry Christmas.
...drum-roll please...
....We did the clomid. Yes, it's all over now and I am in what most ttc'rs (trying to concieve) call the two-week wait. I guess I can let you all know that we should know something by Christmas...but I have to apologize, cause if it happens we aren't sharing anything until a little later. Sorry, but I just have to make sure it sticks if I am pregnant.
On a good note, I have been doing very well with this one. I have kept my mind mostly off of it (kind of...) and it didn't seem like such a chore this time. It was actually kind of exciting. So maybe this is our time. The biggest change? The fact that if I'm not pregnant, I'm gonna be ok with it. I have at least one more shot with the clomid, so we'll discuss possibly doing it again at some point.
So I guess I'm now either pregnant or not and it's just a waiting game. So instead of praying for it to work, we must pray for my sanity...seriously. But anyway...I guess that's enough of that. And I gotta go charge my camera battery so that I can put pics on here and on my facebook page.
Love to ya'll! Merry Christmas.
Christmas is coming
Since I can't decorate for Christmas before Thanksgiving (rules by my husband who hates for Thanksgiving to be overlooked since it's his fave holiday) I snuck one thing by him this year. The day before Thanksgiving we had a neice and nephew over and between them, Martie, and myself, we made a gingerbread house. I have never done this before...and yes, I cheated. I bought a kit at walmart. Someday when I get used to doing them, we'll do a totally home-made one. But for now, not.
I let them decided how the candy would decorate the house, and they all seemed to agree (most of the time) how it should look.
I might also add that this house is very yummy...as it is now half-eaten.
My goal for next year? I want to buy a gingerbread village kit that I saw and make that my edible Christmas village for next Christmas.
I let them decided how the candy would decorate the house, and they all seemed to agree (most of the time) how it should look.
I might also add that this house is very yummy...as it is now half-eaten.
My goal for next year? I want to buy a gingerbread village kit that I saw and make that my edible Christmas village for next Christmas.
Sunday, November 14, 2010
Decisions, decisions
I almost don't know what more to say besides the title. But I better explain. We have taken a very large break from "trying" and those who follow my blog understand what I mean by that. This past May we hadn't even started trying for the summer yet when we ended up pregnant and I miscarried at the end of May. Since then I've not been ready or willing to risk trying hard for a baby.
This past weekend I also made the decision to give it all up to God. And I have been perfectly content to leave it in His hands and if I don't ever have my own baby, I'm ok with that. But today I all of a sudden had the thought that this cycle I want to try the clomid again. I have some on hand and the timing of it would have me taking it on Tuesday night. So the question is....do I take it and do we try, or do we just leave it alone and accept life as it is.
I don't want to give up too soon when there might be a chance, but at the same time, if it's not in God's will I don't want to push where I don't belong. I also don't want to get pregnant and miscarry once again. 6 has been plenty (and I just ordered the May stone for my memorial necklace). We don't need 7 angel babies.
I have not made up my mind yet, and thank goodness I have a couple days to be praying and thinking about it. If it's what God wants, I will give it my all and do exactly as I'm supposed to as far as dr's and things. And if it's not God's will, then we will go on as we have been and I will be content with what God has given me. So can I ask that you be praying for and with me in the next couple days as I seek God's will in all of this?
In other business, we are still waiting about the house we want. We were approved for a loan, but they won't loan us the $$ until the wiring gets replaced by the owner. So this next week we will be talking to the owner and trying to negotiate. I still really like this house and would love it, but I am choosing to take this the same way as the clomid thing....I want to be in God's will, so I want what He wants.
Just keep praying, I'll keep you posted, and all will be great and wonderful no matter what. Love to you all and God's blessings over you.
This past weekend I also made the decision to give it all up to God. And I have been perfectly content to leave it in His hands and if I don't ever have my own baby, I'm ok with that. But today I all of a sudden had the thought that this cycle I want to try the clomid again. I have some on hand and the timing of it would have me taking it on Tuesday night. So the question is....do I take it and do we try, or do we just leave it alone and accept life as it is.
I don't want to give up too soon when there might be a chance, but at the same time, if it's not in God's will I don't want to push where I don't belong. I also don't want to get pregnant and miscarry once again. 6 has been plenty (and I just ordered the May stone for my memorial necklace). We don't need 7 angel babies.
I have not made up my mind yet, and thank goodness I have a couple days to be praying and thinking about it. If it's what God wants, I will give it my all and do exactly as I'm supposed to as far as dr's and things. And if it's not God's will, then we will go on as we have been and I will be content with what God has given me. So can I ask that you be praying for and with me in the next couple days as I seek God's will in all of this?
In other business, we are still waiting about the house we want. We were approved for a loan, but they won't loan us the $$ until the wiring gets replaced by the owner. So this next week we will be talking to the owner and trying to negotiate. I still really like this house and would love it, but I am choosing to take this the same way as the clomid thing....I want to be in God's will, so I want what He wants.
Just keep praying, I'll keep you posted, and all will be great and wonderful no matter what. Love to you all and God's blessings over you.
Sunday, October 24, 2010
Same Old...
So at the moment we are still looking at one house in particular. It's a little bit of a fixer-upper, but yet it is very roomy and we can see ourselves living there very easily. The only thing keeping us from jumping right away is making sure that there will be finances to fix it up (meaning more of a loan). It depends on if a bank thinks our credit is good enough, if the house has enough potential, and what we are able to talk the owner down to in price.
I'm just so excited for an opportunity like this, though. I want to own my own home, and I don't even mind a fixer-upper. That way we can make things the way we want them.
So as of yet, we are not moving =( but I'm hoping we get to move shortly after the new year. Ok, at least before the school year is over.
Anyway, other than that, our life is not really exciting. I have a new nephew, and that's pretty awesome. I got to be at the hospital when he was born (not in the room). He looks just like my brother, and I'm excited to see how his personality is as he grows up.
I'll admit it makes me a little sad for myself seeing them with the new baby. Only because I know that it will never be me. It is a daily struggle for me to take these negative thoughts captive and fully trust in the Lord, but that is what I spend my days doing. As of right now, this blog is one of the few places I share my feelings. I share with my husband (don't get much sympathy his way) and that's about it. Deep down I know that it's hard for others to understand. They have all experienced childbirth and raising a baby, they are able to fully have joy in a new babies birth in a way that I will never have. I'm excited don't get me wrong, but it takes conscious effort to shake off negative feelings and truly feel the joy of the Lord.
But I've made a commitment to not go back to my old self. The one that is so depressed and bitter that I can't even see straight. Even if it is a struggle the rest of my life, I will fight off those feelings. Even when I'm all alone without any other person understanding, I will not allow these feelings to shape who I am.
Ok, that got a little too deep. I apologize...but I guess it's the real me coming out. I guess even when a person isn't angry, they still have to vent. Either that or I still have some work to do in myself.
Anyway, I pray that we both keep the joy of the Lord in all situations. God bless!
I'm just so excited for an opportunity like this, though. I want to own my own home, and I don't even mind a fixer-upper. That way we can make things the way we want them.
So as of yet, we are not moving =( but I'm hoping we get to move shortly after the new year. Ok, at least before the school year is over.
Anyway, other than that, our life is not really exciting. I have a new nephew, and that's pretty awesome. I got to be at the hospital when he was born (not in the room). He looks just like my brother, and I'm excited to see how his personality is as he grows up.
I'll admit it makes me a little sad for myself seeing them with the new baby. Only because I know that it will never be me. It is a daily struggle for me to take these negative thoughts captive and fully trust in the Lord, but that is what I spend my days doing. As of right now, this blog is one of the few places I share my feelings. I share with my husband (don't get much sympathy his way) and that's about it. Deep down I know that it's hard for others to understand. They have all experienced childbirth and raising a baby, they are able to fully have joy in a new babies birth in a way that I will never have. I'm excited don't get me wrong, but it takes conscious effort to shake off negative feelings and truly feel the joy of the Lord.
But I've made a commitment to not go back to my old self. The one that is so depressed and bitter that I can't even see straight. Even if it is a struggle the rest of my life, I will fight off those feelings. Even when I'm all alone without any other person understanding, I will not allow these feelings to shape who I am.
Ok, that got a little too deep. I apologize...but I guess it's the real me coming out. I guess even when a person isn't angry, they still have to vent. Either that or I still have some work to do in myself.
Anyway, I pray that we both keep the joy of the Lord in all situations. God bless!
Tuesday, October 19, 2010
Hoping for a new adventure
I know, I know, it's been too long again. Please forgive me. Life went nuts and then our internet/computer was being weird (well, it still is) and I finally broke down and hooked our laptop to the internet to get some web surfing done. I found out I really do miss the internet. It's a great way to keep in touch with people.
We have a major life-change coming up (hopefully soon). We are moving. Yes, you heard that correctly. We are looking at houses in a nearby town (where our church and my brother is).
May I stray for just a short while..speaking of my brother. He and his wife just had their baby this past Thursday and now I'm even more excited than I was before to get there. He's the cutest thing and looks so much like his daddy. And he's so quiet I've only heard him cry like once or twice.
Anyway, back to what I'm really blogging about. Tonight we are looking at a house that needs some tlc. It's been neglected, but it has some awesome potential from what we've seen so far. But tonight we get to see the inside in all its completeness and really decide if it's the house for us.
It has only 1 bathroom and two bedrooms, but it has a huge living room, dining room, and kitchen...and the bedrooms are very niced sized. It also has a full, unfinished basement (or so we've been told). Scott talked to the owner this morning to set up our time and she said that people have used part of the basement as a bedroom for kids...so maybe it's not completely unfinished.
It has hard-wood floors at least in one bedroom, a bay window, and a fake fireplace in the living room.....hey it's the ambiance we are looking for...lol. Like I said it needs some tlc, but it seems to be a good sturdy home.
Scott also found out that it was built in the early 1900's and has been in this woman's family since then. It has been passed down and finally came to her and now she has to sell it. Well, what better owners than us. We will have so much pride in our home and will make sure it's well taken care of. Plus I am very sentimental and I love things that are family heirlooms. I have some things that have been passed down to me from older generations, and I treasure those things more than any other items in my house (I said "items" not people).
So that's our life right now. Not much else except looking at homes and waiting for the right one so we can get on with life in a new town. Talk to you later. God bless!
We have a major life-change coming up (hopefully soon). We are moving. Yes, you heard that correctly. We are looking at houses in a nearby town (where our church and my brother is).
May I stray for just a short while..speaking of my brother. He and his wife just had their baby this past Thursday and now I'm even more excited than I was before to get there. He's the cutest thing and looks so much like his daddy. And he's so quiet I've only heard him cry like once or twice.
Anyway, back to what I'm really blogging about. Tonight we are looking at a house that needs some tlc. It's been neglected, but it has some awesome potential from what we've seen so far. But tonight we get to see the inside in all its completeness and really decide if it's the house for us.
It has only 1 bathroom and two bedrooms, but it has a huge living room, dining room, and kitchen...and the bedrooms are very niced sized. It also has a full, unfinished basement (or so we've been told). Scott talked to the owner this morning to set up our time and she said that people have used part of the basement as a bedroom for kids...so maybe it's not completely unfinished.
It has hard-wood floors at least in one bedroom, a bay window, and a fake fireplace in the living room.....hey it's the ambiance we are looking for...lol. Like I said it needs some tlc, but it seems to be a good sturdy home.
Scott also found out that it was built in the early 1900's and has been in this woman's family since then. It has been passed down and finally came to her and now she has to sell it. Well, what better owners than us. We will have so much pride in our home and will make sure it's well taken care of. Plus I am very sentimental and I love things that are family heirlooms. I have some things that have been passed down to me from older generations, and I treasure those things more than any other items in my house (I said "items" not people).
So that's our life right now. Not much else except looking at homes and waiting for the right one so we can get on with life in a new town. Talk to you later. God bless!
Wednesday, October 13, 2010
Life
Sorry it's been so long. I have a couple reasons for that.
One: our desktop computer got a virus and is not working properly
and
Two: I've been very busy and sick
I ended up not finishing my 24 day challenge because we thought I might be pregnant and I knew not to diet when I thought I was pregnant. So I am now finishing where I left off, but I don't think the effect will be the same. I will probably continue some of the weight loss products and try to lose weight, but I won't blog everyday about the progress. (some of you are cheering right about now)
I think we have made somewhat of a decision about the baby/pregnancy thing in our lives. For right now we are supposed to raise our daughter as an only child (I'll be honest she takes quite a bit of attention). I will continue with my weight loss until I hit my goal weight.
After I hit my goal weight and Martie is out of the house (or closer to out of the house) we will start thinking about if we want to expand the family, and possibly how we want to do that. We will be praying as of now about it...because it's never too early to start praying.
We aren't sure we want to adopt again. Nothing against Martie, but it's can be very tough. It's been quite an emotional experience and I don't think it's something we are called to do again. (but that's where the prayer comes in...God's will, not ours)
There is one other medical procedure that we haven't tried that's not as expensive as some of the high tech ones, and we are considering trying that one in the future. But like I said, this will be a year or two into the future. I have actually become quite content with our little family, and I'm really ok if we are not going to have any other children.
Ok, our possible future children (or not) is not exactly what I'd call breaking news or even a big-time announcement. But I do have something that is in the process of changing that is very exciting.......
.....we are looking at houses. We are ready to be home-owners again. We are looking in a nearby town (about 15-20 mins away from our town now). And as of now, we found one we all fell in love with. Ok, I'll be honest we've only peaked in the windows and one door, but the little bit we've seen, we've liked. It needs some TCL, but from what we can see, it's not in horrible shape. And it is very roomy and open inside. And it has three of my favorite features (I actually prayed that God would let us get a house with these things). It has a bay window...I've always wanted a house with one, it has a fireplace in the living room...can't tell if it's a real one or a fake one, and it has at least one room with a hard-wood floor.
The outside needs paint really bad, but it has the paintable aluminum siding so it won't be bad, and I absolutely love painting and was hoping to have a house we could paint.
**(side note) I once painted houses as a job for a summer with my mom. We paid for the family to go to Disney Land in California.
Anyway, I think I've went on enough for today. As you can tell I've missed blogging. I love sharing parts of my life with you. Just be praying that no matter what God's will is, that we would stay in it. God bless you and keep you till we meet here again.
One: our desktop computer got a virus and is not working properly
and
Two: I've been very busy and sick
I ended up not finishing my 24 day challenge because we thought I might be pregnant and I knew not to diet when I thought I was pregnant. So I am now finishing where I left off, but I don't think the effect will be the same. I will probably continue some of the weight loss products and try to lose weight, but I won't blog everyday about the progress. (some of you are cheering right about now)
I think we have made somewhat of a decision about the baby/pregnancy thing in our lives. For right now we are supposed to raise our daughter as an only child (I'll be honest she takes quite a bit of attention). I will continue with my weight loss until I hit my goal weight.
After I hit my goal weight and Martie is out of the house (or closer to out of the house) we will start thinking about if we want to expand the family, and possibly how we want to do that. We will be praying as of now about it...because it's never too early to start praying.
We aren't sure we want to adopt again. Nothing against Martie, but it's can be very tough. It's been quite an emotional experience and I don't think it's something we are called to do again. (but that's where the prayer comes in...God's will, not ours)
There is one other medical procedure that we haven't tried that's not as expensive as some of the high tech ones, and we are considering trying that one in the future. But like I said, this will be a year or two into the future. I have actually become quite content with our little family, and I'm really ok if we are not going to have any other children.
Ok, our possible future children (or not) is not exactly what I'd call breaking news or even a big-time announcement. But I do have something that is in the process of changing that is very exciting.......
.....we are looking at houses. We are ready to be home-owners again. We are looking in a nearby town (about 15-20 mins away from our town now). And as of now, we found one we all fell in love with. Ok, I'll be honest we've only peaked in the windows and one door, but the little bit we've seen, we've liked. It needs some TCL, but from what we can see, it's not in horrible shape. And it is very roomy and open inside. And it has three of my favorite features (I actually prayed that God would let us get a house with these things). It has a bay window...I've always wanted a house with one, it has a fireplace in the living room...can't tell if it's a real one or a fake one, and it has at least one room with a hard-wood floor.
The outside needs paint really bad, but it has the paintable aluminum siding so it won't be bad, and I absolutely love painting and was hoping to have a house we could paint.
**(side note) I once painted houses as a job for a summer with my mom. We paid for the family to go to Disney Land in California.
Anyway, I think I've went on enough for today. As you can tell I've missed blogging. I love sharing parts of my life with you. Just be praying that no matter what God's will is, that we would stay in it. God bless you and keep you till we meet here again.
Friday, September 24, 2010
Day 14
I had to sit and think about what day I was really on? I think with my chaotic life right now, I can't really count as well. I need to go back and check now, but I might have put the wrong day in yesterday. Oh, well.
I slept in, which was nice, and now I'm just getting ready to eat/drink my breakfast. I've come to really enjoy being alone in the mornings at my computer, able to sort my thoughts before I start another hectic day. I can share what God is speaking to me, share my joys, share my struggles, and then get on with my cleaning, packing, and whatever else seems to take up the day.
Yesterday I had a little too much fun packing boxes. I turned my music on, closed the blinds, and I was dancing and singing like a crazy person. It was so much fun, and I hope to be able to do it again today.
I don't think I mentioned it, but we looked at a house the day before yesterday. I was excited to start the process and look at our first house, but I was a little disappointed in the house. It was not the house for us and didn't have the potential we wanted. We have a couple more options, we are just waiting for the realtor to call or send us a list of what he has for sale.
I admit that I get a little anxious in waiting. I'm so ready to get moved closer to our church, closer to the ladies that I walk with, and closer to my brother, his wife, and soon their baby (my nephew). I'll keep you updated on how that goes. Other than this little bit I've shared today, my life is chaotic, but simple....clean house, pack boxes, make lunch or supper and babysit a couple times a week. Sounds good to me for the moment.
God bless you lots!
I slept in, which was nice, and now I'm just getting ready to eat/drink my breakfast. I've come to really enjoy being alone in the mornings at my computer, able to sort my thoughts before I start another hectic day. I can share what God is speaking to me, share my joys, share my struggles, and then get on with my cleaning, packing, and whatever else seems to take up the day.
Yesterday I had a little too much fun packing boxes. I turned my music on, closed the blinds, and I was dancing and singing like a crazy person. It was so much fun, and I hope to be able to do it again today.
I don't think I mentioned it, but we looked at a house the day before yesterday. I was excited to start the process and look at our first house, but I was a little disappointed in the house. It was not the house for us and didn't have the potential we wanted. We have a couple more options, we are just waiting for the realtor to call or send us a list of what he has for sale.
I admit that I get a little anxious in waiting. I'm so ready to get moved closer to our church, closer to the ladies that I walk with, and closer to my brother, his wife, and soon their baby (my nephew). I'll keep you updated on how that goes. Other than this little bit I've shared today, my life is chaotic, but simple....clean house, pack boxes, make lunch or supper and babysit a couple times a week. Sounds good to me for the moment.
God bless you lots!
Thursday, September 23, 2010
Day 13
So today might be a little more about my weight loss. I weighed today and I'm so excited. From my top weight I have went down exactly 50 pounds...yippee!!!! This was a really big deal for me this morning.
I have also lost some inches, but I haven't measured everything yet. I do know I lost another 1.5 inches just around my stomach/waist. So far it's been a good day with good news.
It also rained last night, so it's very refreshing this morning. Nice and cool with an awesome smell outside (I love the smell after it's rained).
And to top things off, we are leaning on the end of the week, and I get to see some of my family on Saturday for a big craft fair. It's our annual thing and I look forward to it all year. And then to top it all off, I did the checkbook and I have more money to spend there than I thought.
So that's been my day so far. Here in a little bit I get to go run some errands and get a few household things.
That's actually something else that's new in our life right now. We are officially looking at buying our own house. We've alredy started looking at some, and so far nothing has caught our attention, but I'm excited to have our own place to fix up as we see fit. I can do flooring, paint, new curtains/blinds, and whatever we want to (as we can afford it that is).
But anyway, that's life for us right now. Some transitions coming up, but things are still good. Our house is a mess now and very chaotic with boxes everywhere and trying to figure out what we can start packing now and what needs to wait. I'm also a very organized packer, so it takes me longer to do it. I like to make sure what goes into boxes is categorized properly. I have also been throwing and giving stuff away like crazy. The less I have to move, the better.
But I guess I better go. It's breakfast time and I think I'm drinking a chocolate breakfast today.
God bless you and keeep you till we meet again.
I have also lost some inches, but I haven't measured everything yet. I do know I lost another 1.5 inches just around my stomach/waist. So far it's been a good day with good news.
It also rained last night, so it's very refreshing this morning. Nice and cool with an awesome smell outside (I love the smell after it's rained).
And to top things off, we are leaning on the end of the week, and I get to see some of my family on Saturday for a big craft fair. It's our annual thing and I look forward to it all year. And then to top it all off, I did the checkbook and I have more money to spend there than I thought.
So that's been my day so far. Here in a little bit I get to go run some errands and get a few household things.
That's actually something else that's new in our life right now. We are officially looking at buying our own house. We've alredy started looking at some, and so far nothing has caught our attention, but I'm excited to have our own place to fix up as we see fit. I can do flooring, paint, new curtains/blinds, and whatever we want to (as we can afford it that is).
But anyway, that's life for us right now. Some transitions coming up, but things are still good. Our house is a mess now and very chaotic with boxes everywhere and trying to figure out what we can start packing now and what needs to wait. I'm also a very organized packer, so it takes me longer to do it. I like to make sure what goes into boxes is categorized properly. I have also been throwing and giving stuff away like crazy. The less I have to move, the better.
But I guess I better go. It's breakfast time and I think I'm drinking a chocolate breakfast today.
God bless you and keeep you till we meet again.
Wednesday, September 22, 2010
Day 12
We are two days into phase two of this challenge. I don't even think, at this moment, about the progress that I'm making. My life has been turned upside down and pretty much everything is changing. In fact it's so crazy, that I haven't been able to eat because my stomach is a tad upset.
So today, I just sit here knowing that my life is changing so much. And it sounds crazy, but this change is all a good thing...even when it seems negative. My faith is growing in leaps and bounds everyday. And wanna know one good thing that I already konw about my faith growing? My singing is so different. I used to just sing. Now because my faith is so real and I feel so free I am able to "SING!!!"
When I sit and sing a song, I feel it so much within my heart and soul, it feels as if I will burst because it can't come out enough. It's so hard to explain, but I want everyone to know the faith that I have, and know this wonderful God that I serve. He won't ever let me (or you) down. How can I keep this a secret?
This does not mean that I always have a happy, giddy feeling. Just Monday I was crying out to God. I was asking Him why my life is a mess, and why He was doing some of the things He was doing. But the faith comes in when I can, even in my doubt, trust that He is good and will never leave me or forsake me. That's what makes my new faith different.
So forget the 24-day challenge for now (even though I keep doing it and will mention it). A new body is nice, but it's not the point of this life. I will follow God even if I forget diets and grow to be 500 pounds. All that matters is that I love God and I share that Love with everyone around me.
God Bless you, and I pray He gets hold of your heart for life!
So today, I just sit here knowing that my life is changing so much. And it sounds crazy, but this change is all a good thing...even when it seems negative. My faith is growing in leaps and bounds everyday. And wanna know one good thing that I already konw about my faith growing? My singing is so different. I used to just sing. Now because my faith is so real and I feel so free I am able to "SING!!!"
When I sit and sing a song, I feel it so much within my heart and soul, it feels as if I will burst because it can't come out enough. It's so hard to explain, but I want everyone to know the faith that I have, and know this wonderful God that I serve. He won't ever let me (or you) down. How can I keep this a secret?
This does not mean that I always have a happy, giddy feeling. Just Monday I was crying out to God. I was asking Him why my life is a mess, and why He was doing some of the things He was doing. But the faith comes in when I can, even in my doubt, trust that He is good and will never leave me or forsake me. That's what makes my new faith different.
So forget the 24-day challenge for now (even though I keep doing it and will mention it). A new body is nice, but it's not the point of this life. I will follow God even if I forget diets and grow to be 500 pounds. All that matters is that I love God and I share that Love with everyone around me.
God Bless you, and I pray He gets hold of your heart for life!
Monday, September 20, 2010
Day 10
This is the last day of the cleanse for me. I plan to get up tomorrow morning and weigh so I know exactly how much I lost during that phase. I had my last sawdust drink this morning. I'm excited to see this continue to work. My clothes continue to get bigger and I need to learn how to sew better so that I can fix them without having to go buy new ones.
Today I don't want to focus so much on my diet and weight loss. I just have to share our life for a moment.
I can't give details so I will speak generally. We have some major life decisions going on right now. We have one decision to make that is very hard. It's hard because the future is so unknown. On the other hand, the decision should be easy to make because some things went down that were not cool. I struggle with my anger in this situation. I want so much to have hate, but I know that's not the right thing.
Oh, that life would be easy. That we would be able to make decisions without critisism and condemndation. And then I wonder, maybe this decision that we have to make (we actually made the decision and then were forced to take it back) is what we are supposed to be making and our enemy knows that it's right and is going to try his best to thwart God's plans for us.
If that's the case, then I'm ready for the battle. Because I know it's not really me that fights, I know that it's my God who fights for me. I'm ready to put on his armor and be a mighty warrior in His kingdom. I am not a weak person when I'm in God (alone, I am). In God I am courageous and I have nothing to fear. I know that if we are faithful to what God wants for us, even when it looks like we lose it all in the world, God will bless us and prosper us for being faithful to Him.
I just ask that if you are reading this, that you say a little prayer for us as we fight this battle. That the decisions would be made for God and not for man. God bless you and keep you.
Today I don't want to focus so much on my diet and weight loss. I just have to share our life for a moment.
I can't give details so I will speak generally. We have some major life decisions going on right now. We have one decision to make that is very hard. It's hard because the future is so unknown. On the other hand, the decision should be easy to make because some things went down that were not cool. I struggle with my anger in this situation. I want so much to have hate, but I know that's not the right thing.
Oh, that life would be easy. That we would be able to make decisions without critisism and condemndation. And then I wonder, maybe this decision that we have to make (we actually made the decision and then were forced to take it back) is what we are supposed to be making and our enemy knows that it's right and is going to try his best to thwart God's plans for us.
If that's the case, then I'm ready for the battle. Because I know it's not really me that fights, I know that it's my God who fights for me. I'm ready to put on his armor and be a mighty warrior in His kingdom. I am not a weak person when I'm in God (alone, I am). In God I am courageous and I have nothing to fear. I know that if we are faithful to what God wants for us, even when it looks like we lose it all in the world, God will bless us and prosper us for being faithful to Him.
I just ask that if you are reading this, that you say a little prayer for us as we fight this battle. That the decisions would be made for God and not for man. God bless you and keep you.
Friday, September 17, 2010
Day 7 (a.m.)
So my routine is a little rushed this morning. I'm leaving to go to a women's conference/retreat this weekend. My sis-in-law (Scott's sister) has been wanting me to go and finally this year I'm able to go. I'm excited to see what God will teach me this weekend. I've had some good life changes in the past week and a half. I have been a very angry, bitter person (hidden on the inside) and as of about a week ago, I let that all go. And since then I've been so much more free, I don't get angry when I see a pregnant woman and I'm able to smile and enjoy life.
I've also asked God to give me an opportunity to minister this weekend and to clearly show it to me. He and I had this discussion while I was on the mower this week. We had some really good talks while I was mowing. He's so good to me. So when I come back, I will be excited to share how God was able to use me.
(change of subject...lol)
Tomorrow I start with the fiber drink again. I'm kind of nervous that I start it while away from home with a bunch of ladies I hardly know. Except for my sister-in-law, I know her pretty well. They will wonder why I'm coughing and gagging on my drink...and then they'll see that I'm not drinking anything normal...I'm drinking sawdust...lol. Ok, I know I call it sawdust, but it's one of those names given lovingly...right?
So I didn't weigh in today, I will do that Monday. Which is my last day of the cleanse. So then I get to log how much I was able to lose during the first phase. If I get into the 150's I will just have to scream. Cause that means that I am so close to my goal weight that it's not funny.
I better go now. I'm in my jammies, getting ready to eat my breakfast (chocolate this morning) and I have to go get cash and fill up our pick-up with gas. And I would like to leave Healy by 8:00 or 8:30. Can it be done? Oh, I believe so.
Have a great weekend and I do have one quick prayer request. My other sister-in-law (who is having a baby in October) is having a little trouble here in the past two days. She has been having some contractions and starting some pre-term labor. 1.)I don't want her to have the baby while I'm gone (cause I want to be her for it), 2.)The dr's want her to wait at least 2 weeks just to be on the safe side, and 3.)I just don't want her first baby to be a bad experience. It needs to be a happy joyful time. So just pray that things go well, that they are able to wait at least the two weeks, and that I can be here. (see I told you I let go of the bitterness and anger). So God bless.
I've also asked God to give me an opportunity to minister this weekend and to clearly show it to me. He and I had this discussion while I was on the mower this week. We had some really good talks while I was mowing. He's so good to me. So when I come back, I will be excited to share how God was able to use me.
(change of subject...lol)
Tomorrow I start with the fiber drink again. I'm kind of nervous that I start it while away from home with a bunch of ladies I hardly know. Except for my sister-in-law, I know her pretty well. They will wonder why I'm coughing and gagging on my drink...and then they'll see that I'm not drinking anything normal...I'm drinking sawdust...lol. Ok, I know I call it sawdust, but it's one of those names given lovingly...right?
So I didn't weigh in today, I will do that Monday. Which is my last day of the cleanse. So then I get to log how much I was able to lose during the first phase. If I get into the 150's I will just have to scream. Cause that means that I am so close to my goal weight that it's not funny.
I better go now. I'm in my jammies, getting ready to eat my breakfast (chocolate this morning) and I have to go get cash and fill up our pick-up with gas. And I would like to leave Healy by 8:00 or 8:30. Can it be done? Oh, I believe so.
Have a great weekend and I do have one quick prayer request. My other sister-in-law (who is having a baby in October) is having a little trouble here in the past two days. She has been having some contractions and starting some pre-term labor. 1.)I don't want her to have the baby while I'm gone (cause I want to be her for it), 2.)The dr's want her to wait at least 2 weeks just to be on the safe side, and 3.)I just don't want her first baby to be a bad experience. It needs to be a happy joyful time. So just pray that things go well, that they are able to wait at least the two weeks, and that I can be here. (see I told you I let go of the bitterness and anger). So God bless.
Thursday, September 16, 2010
Day 6 (mid morning)
I slept in today. Like worse than I have for awhile. I didn't get up until 9:45. I know, I know, I'm lazy. I stayed up way too late. It actually was "early" when I went to bed...early morning (3:00 am). So I stayed in bed this morning. And that makes my routine start a little later. I won't end up having a "snack" this morning because I will be eating my breakfast in about 15 minutes.
So things have went well again. Yesterday was good. Like usual, lots of water and the same routine. I feel good, no really bad cravings, not overly hungry, and of course making myself eat a snack has cut back on the blood sugar/grumpy hungry issues.
My clothes continue to get bigger (or is it me getting smaller...lol). I haven't done much "exercise" because the last few days I've been mowing and trimming the cemetary. So today I will probably do either some walking or some wii things.
I've found one thing to be a favorite food of mine during this time. Since I'm limited on what I can eat right now I have fallen in love with salsa all over again. I had just made a bunch of home-made salsa and it's my favorite. So with my turkey burgers, chicken and tuna I put salsa with it...and it is awesome. Plus it's full of veggies, and I know what's in it cause I made it. Yippee!!!
Anyway, I better go...cause it took me longer to type this post than it should have. It's now past my breakfast time, and now I have to go do some cleaning and start some lunch after a bit. Have a great day and I'll be back later today or tomorrow. God bless!
So things have went well again. Yesterday was good. Like usual, lots of water and the same routine. I feel good, no really bad cravings, not overly hungry, and of course making myself eat a snack has cut back on the blood sugar/grumpy hungry issues.
My clothes continue to get bigger (or is it me getting smaller...lol). I haven't done much "exercise" because the last few days I've been mowing and trimming the cemetary. So today I will probably do either some walking or some wii things.
I've found one thing to be a favorite food of mine during this time. Since I'm limited on what I can eat right now I have fallen in love with salsa all over again. I had just made a bunch of home-made salsa and it's my favorite. So with my turkey burgers, chicken and tuna I put salsa with it...and it is awesome. Plus it's full of veggies, and I know what's in it cause I made it. Yippee!!!
Anyway, I better go...cause it took me longer to type this post than it should have. It's now past my breakfast time, and now I have to go do some cleaning and start some lunch after a bit. Have a great day and I'll be back later today or tomorrow. God bless!
Wednesday, September 15, 2010
Day 5 (a.m.)
So here we are on day 5. That's halfway through the first part of this 24 day challenge. I weighed today and I lost some more. I have lost another 2.5 pounds according to the scale. The weight I am right now is the same weight I was at the beginning of college (before my fast-food job went to my waist..lol).
Yesterday I found out something new. I was so busy mowing agian that in the morning and afternoon, I didn't eat a snack. I drank my water and took the energy drink like I was supposed to, but no food. This caused a bad thing. My blood sugar dropped a little too low and right before each meal I kind of did my "grumpy hungry" thing.
What's grumpy hungry, you ask? When I truly get grumpy hungry I am in a very bad mood and very touchy. Little things set me off and I tend to get angry really fast over nothing. I used to think I was just an insane person...until I figured out that it only happens when my blood sugar goes down really fast (like when I have forgotten to eat a snack). I can eat and then I'm just fine and I'm very rational again. So yesterday I had one of these moments before lunch and again right before supper.
Since I figured all this out, today I will make a point to eat a little snack mid-morning and mid-afternoon. This will work out just fine because I babysit this morning and afternoon and won't be mowing (actually trimming) until after 3:30.
I've enjoyed my days without the sawdust drink (I think I just nick-named the silly thing). I take two extra pills in place of it. It's a pro-biotic (I think that's what it's called) and it helps build good things in my tummy and stuff now that we are cleaning it out.
I have done my energy drink and the pills for the a.m. about 8:00 I will do my breakfast shake. Oh, by the way, yesterday I did the berry one and put it in the blender with some fresh strawberries. It was pretty good. I might try it again. It got a little chunky so this time I will blend the strawberries alone first and get them good and pureed then add the water and powder.
So I better get going with my day. Get to spend it with 4 kids and I love that. Babysitting is so much fun. God bless you all!
Weight: 161
Inches lost: haven't measured (will measure probably Friday)
Yesterday I found out something new. I was so busy mowing agian that in the morning and afternoon, I didn't eat a snack. I drank my water and took the energy drink like I was supposed to, but no food. This caused a bad thing. My blood sugar dropped a little too low and right before each meal I kind of did my "grumpy hungry" thing.
What's grumpy hungry, you ask? When I truly get grumpy hungry I am in a very bad mood and very touchy. Little things set me off and I tend to get angry really fast over nothing. I used to think I was just an insane person...until I figured out that it only happens when my blood sugar goes down really fast (like when I have forgotten to eat a snack). I can eat and then I'm just fine and I'm very rational again. So yesterday I had one of these moments before lunch and again right before supper.
Since I figured all this out, today I will make a point to eat a little snack mid-morning and mid-afternoon. This will work out just fine because I babysit this morning and afternoon and won't be mowing (actually trimming) until after 3:30.
I've enjoyed my days without the sawdust drink (I think I just nick-named the silly thing). I take two extra pills in place of it. It's a pro-biotic (I think that's what it's called) and it helps build good things in my tummy and stuff now that we are cleaning it out.
I have done my energy drink and the pills for the a.m. about 8:00 I will do my breakfast shake. Oh, by the way, yesterday I did the berry one and put it in the blender with some fresh strawberries. It was pretty good. I might try it again. It got a little chunky so this time I will blend the strawberries alone first and get them good and pureed then add the water and powder.
So I better get going with my day. Get to spend it with 4 kids and I love that. Babysitting is so much fun. God bless you all!
Weight: 161
Inches lost: haven't measured (will measure probably Friday)
Monday, September 13, 2010
Day 3 (p.m.)
I hope it was a happy Monday for you. I actually had a very good Monday. Busy, but it was good. I got some good mowing done at the cemetary and I got a little bit of a sunburn...ouch!
Anyway, day 3 went good. My husband laughed at me this morning. Usually I get my fiber drink down before he sees me, but this morning he was determined to watch me. And of course today of all days I gagged really bad and (I apologize for tmi)some of the drink came out my nose. I'm sorry, but this did not feel good at all. So I'm very excited for my 5 days without this drink.
I had good energy levels (obviously....I mowed part of a cemetary), I didn't have cravings, and again I kind of had to make myself eat. I have found that I actually have to look at the clock to see if it's snack time....I don't feel hungry, but the clock says "you better eat a little snack now." I know this will sound bad, but I actually have to work to get in 1000 calories a day. That's strange to me.
And of course I'm still "swimming" through most of my days. But I'm noticing that my clothes are getting even more lose on me. This is the most exciting thing of all. I'm gonna share another deep dark secret (shh...don't tell anyone). If we count from when I first started losing weight (45 pounds ago) I was in a size 16 pants. I tried on some clothes last night and I'm now down to a size 12! I can't believe that. I haven't worn size 12 pants since high school.
You can imagine that I'm feeling pretty good about this. After spending so many years overweight, I'm just excited to be working hard to accomplish my weight loss goal. "I can do it...I can do it."
So that was day 3. Nothing major to report. I didn't weigh in and I won't measure my inches for a while. Have a happy Tuesday and I'll see you tomorrow.
Anyway, day 3 went good. My husband laughed at me this morning. Usually I get my fiber drink down before he sees me, but this morning he was determined to watch me. And of course today of all days I gagged really bad and (I apologize for tmi)some of the drink came out my nose. I'm sorry, but this did not feel good at all. So I'm very excited for my 5 days without this drink.
I had good energy levels (obviously....I mowed part of a cemetary), I didn't have cravings, and again I kind of had to make myself eat. I have found that I actually have to look at the clock to see if it's snack time....I don't feel hungry, but the clock says "you better eat a little snack now." I know this will sound bad, but I actually have to work to get in 1000 calories a day. That's strange to me.
And of course I'm still "swimming" through most of my days. But I'm noticing that my clothes are getting even more lose on me. This is the most exciting thing of all. I'm gonna share another deep dark secret (shh...don't tell anyone). If we count from when I first started losing weight (45 pounds ago) I was in a size 16 pants. I tried on some clothes last night and I'm now down to a size 12! I can't believe that. I haven't worn size 12 pants since high school.
You can imagine that I'm feeling pretty good about this. After spending so many years overweight, I'm just excited to be working hard to accomplish my weight loss goal. "I can do it...I can do it."
So that was day 3. Nothing major to report. I didn't weigh in and I won't measure my inches for a while. Have a happy Tuesday and I'll see you tomorrow.
Day 2 (sorry it's a few hours late)
I know, I know, I should have posted last night. But I had a busy, fun afternoon (shopping...yippee!!!!) and didn't get in til late. And boy was I exhausted. I guess I shopped til I dropped, almost literally.
Anyway, how did my 2nd day go? Pretty good. I started my morning with the same routine: pills, energy drink, sawdust drink (lol), and my breakfast shake (berry this time...it was good). Of course I spent the day swimming around instead of walking, at least that's what it felt like again. When you are drinking between 1 & 2 gallons of water a day you tend to think you are in the water. And I can even tell you which stores have the best bathrooms..since I used each of them like 3 times!
I did forget to take my energy drink in the afternoon (too busy scanning clearance racks) and it showed in the early evening thru bedtime. I just completely ran out of energy. And unfortulately I ended up having to go to bed with a migraine (remnants of it yet this morning, so I had to take a migraine pill a while ago).
I'm now ready to start my morning routine again. This morning is my last fiber drink for 5 days. So once I get it down, it's a break I'm gonna completely enjoy. Oh, and I will just let you know that this cleanse thing is really working. That's all I'm gonna say about it, just know it does work.
Well, I better go. I have another busy day ahead. My plans include:
Garden City once again for my daughters orthodontist appointment, rush back home so I can get her to school before lunch, pay bills and do the checkbook, eat a quick lunch with the hubby, and go mow the cemetary. Hope your day goes well. God bless!
Stats:
Weight: 163 (yippee...2 pounds gone)
inches lost: not sure yet, I'll do that in a couple days...but when I tried on pants I had went down another size as of yesterday
Anyway, how did my 2nd day go? Pretty good. I started my morning with the same routine: pills, energy drink, sawdust drink (lol), and my breakfast shake (berry this time...it was good). Of course I spent the day swimming around instead of walking, at least that's what it felt like again. When you are drinking between 1 & 2 gallons of water a day you tend to think you are in the water. And I can even tell you which stores have the best bathrooms..since I used each of them like 3 times!
I did forget to take my energy drink in the afternoon (too busy scanning clearance racks) and it showed in the early evening thru bedtime. I just completely ran out of energy. And unfortulately I ended up having to go to bed with a migraine (remnants of it yet this morning, so I had to take a migraine pill a while ago).
I'm now ready to start my morning routine again. This morning is my last fiber drink for 5 days. So once I get it down, it's a break I'm gonna completely enjoy. Oh, and I will just let you know that this cleanse thing is really working. That's all I'm gonna say about it, just know it does work.
Well, I better go. I have another busy day ahead. My plans include:
Garden City once again for my daughters orthodontist appointment, rush back home so I can get her to school before lunch, pay bills and do the checkbook, eat a quick lunch with the hubby, and go mow the cemetary. Hope your day goes well. God bless!
Stats:
Weight: 163 (yippee...2 pounds gone)
inches lost: not sure yet, I'll do that in a couple days...but when I tried on pants I had went down another size as of yesterday
Saturday, September 11, 2010
Remembering...
Just wanted to share a small post about the significant day that today is. To take a moment to remember and honor those who lost their lives 9 years ago.
Lord, please be with us as we remember the tragic day. Be with families of those who lost their lives and wrap your arms of comfort around them today and always. You are an awesome God who never leaves us or forsakes us. Be with us now. Amen
Please take time out of your day to pray for our nation and those who need that special touch today. God bless you!
Lord, please be with us as we remember the tragic day. Be with families of those who lost their lives and wrap your arms of comfort around them today and always. You are an awesome God who never leaves us or forsakes us. Be with us now. Amen
Please take time out of your day to pray for our nation and those who need that special touch today. God bless you!
Day 1, a.m.
Here starts day one. I've been up for about 30 minutes. And I've been at this for about 15 minutes. My plan was to be up and motivated earlier (and go for a walk with a friend of mine), but thanks to my lovely body, that didn't happen. I get migraines quite regularly and this morning I started getting a mild one. So instead of doing a 6am walk like I planned, I slept in until 7:00.
But the extra sleep helped and I was too excited to sleep any more this morning. So here's the latest on my new a.m. routine:
Took 3 capsules of something in a bottle (don't ask me to describe it...it's just part of the routine. I think it helps keep and build muscles), had an energy drink (pink lemonade flavor was awesome, can't wait to try the citrus), and then....dum, dum, dum...on to the...gulp...fiber drink. I would love to rant and rave about how wonderful and good it was, but to be perfectly honest I almost threw part of it up in my sink. Thank goodness I kept it down and just gagged a little.
I'm so sorry, Pastor (my pastor started me on this), that I can't give you good reports on the taste and texture of this product. Will I continue? Of course. Will I enjoy it? Probably not. But so far it's the only product that I didn't like. And I only have 5 more days of it (two right now and then the last three days of the 10-day cleanse). I can do this...I can do this.
I am about to drink the breakfast shake thing in about 10-15 minutes. I am praying that it takes really good. I have two flavors: berry and chocolate. I think this morning I'm trying the chocolate. Maybe after drinking that sawdust....I mean citrus flavor fiber stuff, something chocolate might motivate me a little more. And then on to being water-logged all day.
Ok, I sound like I'm whining and complaining already, right? So what if I am? Isn't this what my blog is for? No, I'm not really whining and I am still really excited to see what this does for me.
Now for the big question of the day....Jogging on the wii or "Sweatin'" with Richard Simmons?
**update**
Ok, I am drinking my chocolate breakfast. Not bad, really not bad. After tasting this, I am excited about the berry flavor for tomorrow morning. Go liquid breakfast!!!
But the extra sleep helped and I was too excited to sleep any more this morning. So here's the latest on my new a.m. routine:
Took 3 capsules of something in a bottle (don't ask me to describe it...it's just part of the routine. I think it helps keep and build muscles), had an energy drink (pink lemonade flavor was awesome, can't wait to try the citrus), and then....dum, dum, dum...on to the...gulp...fiber drink. I would love to rant and rave about how wonderful and good it was, but to be perfectly honest I almost threw part of it up in my sink. Thank goodness I kept it down and just gagged a little.
I'm so sorry, Pastor (my pastor started me on this), that I can't give you good reports on the taste and texture of this product. Will I continue? Of course. Will I enjoy it? Probably not. But so far it's the only product that I didn't like. And I only have 5 more days of it (two right now and then the last three days of the 10-day cleanse). I can do this...I can do this.
I am about to drink the breakfast shake thing in about 10-15 minutes. I am praying that it takes really good. I have two flavors: berry and chocolate. I think this morning I'm trying the chocolate. Maybe after drinking that sawdust....I mean citrus flavor fiber stuff, something chocolate might motivate me a little more. And then on to being water-logged all day.
Ok, I sound like I'm whining and complaining already, right? So what if I am? Isn't this what my blog is for? No, I'm not really whining and I am still really excited to see what this does for me.
Now for the big question of the day....Jogging on the wii or "Sweatin'" with Richard Simmons?
**update**
Ok, I am drinking my chocolate breakfast. Not bad, really not bad. After tasting this, I am excited about the berry flavor for tomorrow morning. Go liquid breakfast!!!
Friday, September 10, 2010
New Diet
I know this blog is about our family (the Musical Soodsmas), but I'm gonna change the topic for just a few short weeks. I figure I can use the blog to track my progress, and vent at the same time. I started a new diet. Ok, so I've tried a zillion different things and so far I have lost 43 pounds...and I have like 20 more to go. So I'm gonna try to get this done once and for all.
The diet starts as a 10-day cleanse. I'm limited on what I should and shouldn't have. I'm supposed to stay away from fried foods, corn or white starches, bread, crackers, any wheat products, dairy (cheese, yogurt, milk, etc), alcohol (not a big sacrifice there), and coffee and soda. I'm supposed to eat lots of veggies, fruit, and lean meats (for protien). Oh, I can have what they call clean carbs which is rice, hummus, or oatmeal.
I take a ton of pills, some special fiber drinks, energy drinks, and a meal replacement shake for breakfast everyday. I know it sounds like a lot, but I'm very dedicated to getting this weight off.
All of this is natural stuff, full of fiber, and lots of vitamins and stuff. Oh, and by the end of all of this I should have floated away from my water intake...lol.
Anyway, after the cleanse I start the weight loss program which starts out as a 2 week program (I can continue with weight loss maintenence if needed). I keep doing the energy drink, the meal replacement shake and tons of pills (vitamins and stuff).
Since I'll be giving up bread, sugars, dairy, crackers, and stuff that I really enjoy (at least for now), I know I'll need a place to vent. So that's what you will be here for. My plan is that when I have a food craving I will come down to my lovely friendly computer and spill all my frustrations about not eating my food. Wow, it sounds so dramatic when I say it like that.
I'm also going to go out on a limb and share my progress. Do you mind if I get a little personal? I guess I'm not like a normal woman, because I am about to share deep dark womanly secrets....yes...my weight. AAAHHHHH!!!! It's not that bad. It's just numbers. So here goes:
Start weight: 165 lbs
Inches lost: 0 in.
Happy 24 days!
The diet starts as a 10-day cleanse. I'm limited on what I should and shouldn't have. I'm supposed to stay away from fried foods, corn or white starches, bread, crackers, any wheat products, dairy (cheese, yogurt, milk, etc), alcohol (not a big sacrifice there), and coffee and soda. I'm supposed to eat lots of veggies, fruit, and lean meats (for protien). Oh, I can have what they call clean carbs which is rice, hummus, or oatmeal.
I take a ton of pills, some special fiber drinks, energy drinks, and a meal replacement shake for breakfast everyday. I know it sounds like a lot, but I'm very dedicated to getting this weight off.
All of this is natural stuff, full of fiber, and lots of vitamins and stuff. Oh, and by the end of all of this I should have floated away from my water intake...lol.
Anyway, after the cleanse I start the weight loss program which starts out as a 2 week program (I can continue with weight loss maintenence if needed). I keep doing the energy drink, the meal replacement shake and tons of pills (vitamins and stuff).
Since I'll be giving up bread, sugars, dairy, crackers, and stuff that I really enjoy (at least for now), I know I'll need a place to vent. So that's what you will be here for. My plan is that when I have a food craving I will come down to my lovely friendly computer and spill all my frustrations about not eating my food. Wow, it sounds so dramatic when I say it like that.
I'm also going to go out on a limb and share my progress. Do you mind if I get a little personal? I guess I'm not like a normal woman, because I am about to share deep dark womanly secrets....yes...my weight. AAAHHHHH!!!! It's not that bad. It's just numbers. So here goes:
Start weight: 165 lbs
Inches lost: 0 in.
Happy 24 days!
Saturday, July 31, 2010
Bragging
I have to brag a little. I have achieved something that I never thought I would actually achieve. And I'm going to share some info that maybe I shouldn't share, but I'm not ashamed to share it.
Below, I have two pictures. I just have to share the difference. The first picture is 2 1/2 years ago. Yes, it is me:
The next picture was just taken Friday night at the Leoti fair. It's of my daughter and myself. I'm the one on the left...obviously. I just have to share the difference that 40 pounds makes.
Yes, in 2 1/2 years I have lost 40 pounds. I was just looking at pictures of me earlier tonight and I almost didn't believe myself that it was the same person. That and I'm so proud of myself for staying dedicated to losing weight and getting healthy.
Scott keeps telling me that even though he has loved me the whole time we have been married, he does like to see me taking care of myself like this a little better than I used to.
I know it's not easy, but I've done it. I still have a little ways to go...and obviously these pictures are just of my face, but I'm shocked by the difference in just the shape of my face.
I hope this might inspire someone to be motivated to do that something in your life that you want to do but haven't done. It doesn't have to be losing weight (that's a personal choice). But maybe there's something you've always dreamed of doing, and something else always stands in your way and you back down from your dream.
I want you to know right here and now, that you need to stand up, dream your dream some more, and then make it happen. Stick with it until you've conquered it.
Now that you've had your motivational speech for today, I challenge you to share what your dream is...and I'll support you 150% in whatever you want to do. Come on....you can do it!!!!!
Below, I have two pictures. I just have to share the difference. The first picture is 2 1/2 years ago. Yes, it is me:
The next picture was just taken Friday night at the Leoti fair. It's of my daughter and myself. I'm the one on the left...obviously. I just have to share the difference that 40 pounds makes.
Yes, in 2 1/2 years I have lost 40 pounds. I was just looking at pictures of me earlier tonight and I almost didn't believe myself that it was the same person. That and I'm so proud of myself for staying dedicated to losing weight and getting healthy.
Scott keeps telling me that even though he has loved me the whole time we have been married, he does like to see me taking care of myself like this a little better than I used to.
I know it's not easy, but I've done it. I still have a little ways to go...and obviously these pictures are just of my face, but I'm shocked by the difference in just the shape of my face.
I hope this might inspire someone to be motivated to do that something in your life that you want to do but haven't done. It doesn't have to be losing weight (that's a personal choice). But maybe there's something you've always dreamed of doing, and something else always stands in your way and you back down from your dream.
I want you to know right here and now, that you need to stand up, dream your dream some more, and then make it happen. Stick with it until you've conquered it.
Now that you've had your motivational speech for today, I challenge you to share what your dream is...and I'll support you 150% in whatever you want to do. Come on....you can do it!!!!!
Thursday, July 29, 2010
More life changes
So, it's been awhile. Summer gets busy and especially now when it's close to school starting up again. Can you believe it's just a couple more weeks?
We have something new possibly happening in our lives. We kept saying we wouldn't do this if we had Martie in the house...and look at us now. We are working on getting it done. What am I talking about? Getting a foreign exchange student.
It's not for sure yet. In fact we should find out by tomorrow if the girl wants to come to our small town. Martie is so excited. She's ready to have a "sister" in the house with her.
The girl we picked is from Norway. So it will be interesting to learn about her culture. And I hope she enjoys learning about our way of life. I think it will be a great learning experience for all of us. And of course Scott and I vowed we would not have another teenager in our house....I guess that's what happens when you say "never".
So, I'll keep you all posted on the possible new member of the "Musical Soodsmas".
What's another life change? Well, this one isn't for certain. It depends on how gutsy I get. I want to, but sometimes I get a little scared of failing. But I guess the only certain way of failing is not trying at all.
I love scrapbooking. It's my release from life and it gets my creative juices flowing. I love to watch the pages turn from nothing to something beautiful.
I want to create pages or even books to sell on e-bay or locally or wherever. But more than that I would like to offer a service for those people who have boxes of photos that are not even sorted. I would like to charge a fee for helping them sort thru their photos, and if they would like me to, I can scrapbook them personally. That is if they don't like to or have the time to scrapbook themselves, and don't want just a generic pre-made scrapbook.
This is something I have done for my mom. She likes to have scrapbooks of her photos, but she's not really into (and doesn't have the time to) scrapbook them herself. We have sat down and organized the photos. She tells me what they are (if I'm not certain) and then I get the supplies and scrapbook it all for her.
Now, of course for her I do it for free because I never thought of doing it as a business. And maybe it won't even work to do that as a business. I mean, maybe people won't want someone else scrapbooking their stuff. But boy would it be the perfect job for me. I can stay at home, and set aside certain times of the day and just scrapbook my heart away.
I guess if there's anyone out there that reads this that has a comment about whether or not this business would work, let me know. I will at least try to sell pre-made books and pages on e-bay and stuff if nothing else.
Who knows, maybe this is the start to a great booming business.....or maybe it's just me dreaming a dream. I guess we'll see.
So now that I've updated you all on how the "Musical Soodsmas" are doing and what's happening...I guess I'm done here for now. I hope to get some feedback about my new venture.
God bless you all. Remember how much He loves you!
We have something new possibly happening in our lives. We kept saying we wouldn't do this if we had Martie in the house...and look at us now. We are working on getting it done. What am I talking about? Getting a foreign exchange student.
It's not for sure yet. In fact we should find out by tomorrow if the girl wants to come to our small town. Martie is so excited. She's ready to have a "sister" in the house with her.
The girl we picked is from Norway. So it will be interesting to learn about her culture. And I hope she enjoys learning about our way of life. I think it will be a great learning experience for all of us. And of course Scott and I vowed we would not have another teenager in our house....I guess that's what happens when you say "never".
So, I'll keep you all posted on the possible new member of the "Musical Soodsmas".
What's another life change? Well, this one isn't for certain. It depends on how gutsy I get. I want to, but sometimes I get a little scared of failing. But I guess the only certain way of failing is not trying at all.
I love scrapbooking. It's my release from life and it gets my creative juices flowing. I love to watch the pages turn from nothing to something beautiful.
I want to create pages or even books to sell on e-bay or locally or wherever. But more than that I would like to offer a service for those people who have boxes of photos that are not even sorted. I would like to charge a fee for helping them sort thru their photos, and if they would like me to, I can scrapbook them personally. That is if they don't like to or have the time to scrapbook themselves, and don't want just a generic pre-made scrapbook.
This is something I have done for my mom. She likes to have scrapbooks of her photos, but she's not really into (and doesn't have the time to) scrapbook them herself. We have sat down and organized the photos. She tells me what they are (if I'm not certain) and then I get the supplies and scrapbook it all for her.
Now, of course for her I do it for free because I never thought of doing it as a business. And maybe it won't even work to do that as a business. I mean, maybe people won't want someone else scrapbooking their stuff. But boy would it be the perfect job for me. I can stay at home, and set aside certain times of the day and just scrapbook my heart away.
I guess if there's anyone out there that reads this that has a comment about whether or not this business would work, let me know. I will at least try to sell pre-made books and pages on e-bay and stuff if nothing else.
Who knows, maybe this is the start to a great booming business.....or maybe it's just me dreaming a dream. I guess we'll see.
So now that I've updated you all on how the "Musical Soodsmas" are doing and what's happening...I guess I'm done here for now. I hope to get some feedback about my new venture.
God bless you all. Remember how much He loves you!
Friday, July 16, 2010
Stevens Park
So this Sunday I am doing another Stevens Park Concert. I've been doing these concerts for like 10 years (I can't even remember exactly when my first one was). They are so much fun. It's so informal and there are those who do come just to listen, but for others they come and eat a picnic supper, play football or frisbee, and I'm just the background music.
I enjoy it so much. There's no explaining what it's like on stage while I'm singing. It's like there's this connection between me and the audience that would normally not be there. Depending on the situation and the songs I'm singing, it's almost as if sometimes I can feel what some people in the audience are feeling.
The strangest example I have of that (well, to me it was strange at the time) was the first time I sang the song I wrote (He Loves You) in public. It was at the end of what our youth group called "Yes Night". Which is just a praise night for teens.
I felt led to share the song with the group, but did not want to be pushy about it. So I prayed that if God really wanted me to share it that He open up the door to do so. Not more than just a few minutes later the youth leader asked if there was anyone who felt led to share something.
I hesitated for just a moment before raising my hand. Since my youth leader was the one who helped write the background music for the song, it was perfect. I went up there, told him what I wanted to do and he agreed that the song needed to be shared.
While I was singing it, there was a girl in the front row. She started crying when she heard my first verse and cried through the rest of the song. When I looked at her my heart broke, and then the weird part happened. It's like God opened her heart up and I was able to see it. I saw all the hurt, all the pain, all the emotions. It was almost overwhelming as I stood there singing and at the same time was singing to her pain.
I know some of you may not understand what in the world I'm talking about, but as I got used to it, I find it a regular part of my singing now. I've come to know that it's a gift the God has given me, a gift to feel other's pain and to try to communicate with them by the language of song.
Even if I'm never famous for singing, I feel (and should always remember to feel) blessed that God has given me this gift. He will allow me to touch whoever He wants me to touch. so today that's my prayer. That God will bring to Stevens Park, those who need a touch from Him. And I pray that I would be an open and willing vessel to speak His love to those who need it the most.
God bless!
I enjoy it so much. There's no explaining what it's like on stage while I'm singing. It's like there's this connection between me and the audience that would normally not be there. Depending on the situation and the songs I'm singing, it's almost as if sometimes I can feel what some people in the audience are feeling.
The strangest example I have of that (well, to me it was strange at the time) was the first time I sang the song I wrote (He Loves You) in public. It was at the end of what our youth group called "Yes Night". Which is just a praise night for teens.
I felt led to share the song with the group, but did not want to be pushy about it. So I prayed that if God really wanted me to share it that He open up the door to do so. Not more than just a few minutes later the youth leader asked if there was anyone who felt led to share something.
I hesitated for just a moment before raising my hand. Since my youth leader was the one who helped write the background music for the song, it was perfect. I went up there, told him what I wanted to do and he agreed that the song needed to be shared.
While I was singing it, there was a girl in the front row. She started crying when she heard my first verse and cried through the rest of the song. When I looked at her my heart broke, and then the weird part happened. It's like God opened her heart up and I was able to see it. I saw all the hurt, all the pain, all the emotions. It was almost overwhelming as I stood there singing and at the same time was singing to her pain.
I know some of you may not understand what in the world I'm talking about, but as I got used to it, I find it a regular part of my singing now. I've come to know that it's a gift the God has given me, a gift to feel other's pain and to try to communicate with them by the language of song.
Even if I'm never famous for singing, I feel (and should always remember to feel) blessed that God has given me this gift. He will allow me to touch whoever He wants me to touch. so today that's my prayer. That God will bring to Stevens Park, those who need a touch from Him. And I pray that I would be an open and willing vessel to speak His love to those who need it the most.
God bless!
Sunday, July 11, 2010
Song for the week
I haven't done a song of the week for awhile. So here it goes once again. The song of the week. I picked one that I'm singing next week at my concert at Stevens Park. It's an oldie but a goodie. I've been singing this song since I was in high school, but it's been a few years since I've had it out and worked on it. With some of the things that I've been through recently, this song spoke to me tonight as we were coming home from my in-laws. You will have to just read the words and maybe you can look up the song on i-tunes or some other internet program that allows you to listen to songs. It's a good one. And it's true for me...He's my Adonai!
Adonai
One single drop of rain
Your salty tear became blue ocean
One tiny grain of sand turning in your hand
A world in motion
You're out beyond the furthest Morning Star
Close enough to hold me in Your arms
AdoniaI life up my heart and I cry
My Adonai
You are the Maker of each moment
Father of my hope and freedom
Oh, my Adonai
One timid faithful know
Resounds up the Rock of Ages
One trembling heart and sould
Becomes a servant bold and courageous
You call across the mountains and the seas
I answer from the deepest part of me
AdoniaI life up my heart and I cry
My Adonai
You are the Maker of each moment
Father of my hope and freedom
Oh, my Adonai
From age to age you reign in Majesty
And today You're making miracles in me.
AdoniaI life up my heart and I cry
My Adonai
You are the Maker of each moment
Father of my hope and freedom
Oh, my Adonai
Is He Your Adonai??
Adonai
One single drop of rain
Your salty tear became blue ocean
One tiny grain of sand turning in your hand
A world in motion
You're out beyond the furthest Morning Star
Close enough to hold me in Your arms
AdoniaI life up my heart and I cry
My Adonai
You are the Maker of each moment
Father of my hope and freedom
Oh, my Adonai
One timid faithful know
Resounds up the Rock of Ages
One trembling heart and sould
Becomes a servant bold and courageous
You call across the mountains and the seas
I answer from the deepest part of me
AdoniaI life up my heart and I cry
My Adonai
You are the Maker of each moment
Father of my hope and freedom
Oh, my Adonai
From age to age you reign in Majesty
And today You're making miracles in me.
AdoniaI life up my heart and I cry
My Adonai
You are the Maker of each moment
Father of my hope and freedom
Oh, my Adonai
Is He Your Adonai??
Monday, July 5, 2010
Colgate Country Showdown
I am so excited to be able to post this one. More excited than I've ever been. I have now entered a talent contest that should be so much fun. It's called the Colgate Country Showdown.
What is this talent show?
It starts at the local level (which for me is actually an hour away). This one is this coming saturday (July 10). I get to sing a song (for 5 judges) and they will judge me on talent, stage presence, and things like that. I was told there are 8 contestants at this level, so I'm one of 8. (not too bad for my chances, right??)
If I win that level I would perform at the state level (which is actually at the fair in the same town that I'm competing at the local level). The prize for that is $1,000.
If for some reason I make it past that level, I will go to regionals (don't know where they are at the moment).
If I win at the regional level, then I make it to nationals (which I think are in Orlando, Florida...Awesome!)
The winner of the national competition is the winner overall. This performance is on radio, internet, and possibly tv (I think). The winner of the whole thing gets $100,000. Plus a lot of publicity (even if you don't win).
I'm doing a Martina McBride song "Ride" which is one of her newer ones. I'm excited because it's a fun song to sing, and I get to practice having a bunch of energy on stage.
In fact right before I came downstairs to blog, I was working on this song for an hour. Just singing it over and over again working on stage presence.
I didn't realize how much energy you really have to have on stage for it to look good, really good. (I've always just been kind of average I think). Stage presence has always been something I know I need to work on, so I'm working really hard this week so I can look and sound really good.
I'm hoping to be able to video-tape it and maybe even put it on here or on facebook. We'll see how it goes.
I guess I better go. I'm a little tired and I'm ready for a good night's sleep. I plan to work on my "energy" for a few hours tomorrow.
Love ya'll and God bless you!
***Update....I did not make it past the first level. Let me tell you that there were some really good singers even at this level. I plan to try again next year. For now I'll keep singing where I'm at.
Loves to all!
What is this talent show?
It starts at the local level (which for me is actually an hour away). This one is this coming saturday (July 10). I get to sing a song (for 5 judges) and they will judge me on talent, stage presence, and things like that. I was told there are 8 contestants at this level, so I'm one of 8. (not too bad for my chances, right??)
If I win that level I would perform at the state level (which is actually at the fair in the same town that I'm competing at the local level). The prize for that is $1,000.
If for some reason I make it past that level, I will go to regionals (don't know where they are at the moment).
If I win at the regional level, then I make it to nationals (which I think are in Orlando, Florida...Awesome!)
The winner of the national competition is the winner overall. This performance is on radio, internet, and possibly tv (I think). The winner of the whole thing gets $100,000. Plus a lot of publicity (even if you don't win).
I'm doing a Martina McBride song "Ride" which is one of her newer ones. I'm excited because it's a fun song to sing, and I get to practice having a bunch of energy on stage.
In fact right before I came downstairs to blog, I was working on this song for an hour. Just singing it over and over again working on stage presence.
I didn't realize how much energy you really have to have on stage for it to look good, really good. (I've always just been kind of average I think). Stage presence has always been something I know I need to work on, so I'm working really hard this week so I can look and sound really good.
I'm hoping to be able to video-tape it and maybe even put it on here or on facebook. We'll see how it goes.
I guess I better go. I'm a little tired and I'm ready for a good night's sleep. I plan to work on my "energy" for a few hours tomorrow.
Love ya'll and God bless you!
***Update....I did not make it past the first level. Let me tell you that there were some really good singers even at this level. I plan to try again next year. For now I'll keep singing where I'm at.
Loves to all!
Friday, June 11, 2010
Michigan
We need something fun and positive on here. So why don't I tell you all about our trip to Michigan. Are you ready for lots of information? It might take me awhile to tell you everything. I'll start at the beginning...and when I get to the end...I'll stop. (that's my favorite line from Disney's Alice in Wonderland).
We got on the train at 11:30 pm. in Garden City on Wednesday June 2. Since it was bedtime, we pretty much just slept until we reached Kansas City (where the train stopped for like 45 minutes). It was after Kansas City that it got a little more exciting. A drunk guy decided to board the train and a couple hours later in La Plata, MO. he was escorted off by a police officer. Poor guy couldn't even stand up straight, let alone tell the officer if he had any personal belongings.
We went over the Mississippi River and just saw some very pretty scenery as we went through Missouri, Iowa, and Illinois (and I think a corner of Indiana).
We got to Chicago at 3-something and had a two hour lay-over. We were a little nervous to venture out, so we stayed in the train station. But this was not a bad decision, because we went to the "Great Hall" in the old part of Union Station. It was so beautiful. I will eventually post pictures of it, but for now, I just don't have the time to get it done. I guess there have been movies filmed in this "Great Hall." I can't wait to start researching and finding out what they are so I can watch them and recognize the room.
We got back on the train two hours later and were on our way to Grand Rapids. Pretty uneventful.....we were pretty tired by this time. We got to Grand Rapids at 10:30-ish (Thursday night). Scott's brother picked us up and we went to his house and got a quick house tour and went to bed.
We woke up Friday morning ready to get on with the sight-seeing. We slept in a bunch and had breakfast out on their deck. Did you know that Michigan gets hardly any wind, and they don't have the pesky bugs that we can get? We were able to eat breakfast in peace (while watching Alvin, Simon, and Theodore play in the yard...lol...really)
We went to a music festival for a couple hours right around lunch-time and saw some groups perform, but then we went and got Amy (Kevin's wife) from work and went home to eat some supper.
After supper we went to a baseball game (the Whitecaps). It's the farm league for the Detroit Tigers. The Tiger Mascot was there...it was cool. Again I got lots of pictures. Martie and Scott ate Dippin' Dots for the first time at this game..it was exciting. And our team even won.
Saturday....we had an even better day. We drove to Shipshewana(sp?), Indiana. This is an Amish community that is a big tourist place. We went to an Amish grocery store, saw Amish made furniture, and even went for a buggy ride with an Amish guy. He showed us some of the town and a little bit of the country around the town. We saw many little shops and ate at a small deli (awesome sandwiches) for lunch. We visited a cheese place, a popcorn farm, and even a honey farm. Some of these places don't even have electricity in thier stores. It really showed us how spoiled we are.
That night we ate at a huge Amish restaurant. The food was all home-made, really home-made and for dessert we had home-made pie. The best and biggest pieces of pie I have ever eaten. Wow.
Sunday was pretty calm. We visited Kevin and Amy's church and then visited Amy's parents (and went on thier paddle boat in the lake behind thier house). After that we just went back to Keven and Amy's house and watched tv and fell asleep.
Monday we went to Lake Michigan and saw a light house, a coast guard station, and lots of water (duh). The water was pretty and there were tons of boats. The pictures describe everything about that better.
Then we went to a place called "Craig's Cruisers". This is where we rode go-carts, bumper boats, and played some arcade games. Scott tried to play a semi-truck racing game, but it was broken....darn. Then we ate Mongolian BBQ (a first for Martie). It was good.
Tuesday was our going home day. We got on the train in Kalamazoo, Michigan and again went to Chicago. This time our lay-over was 3 hours...and we decided to venture out a little. I'll admit the big city scared me a little (we were in the heart of downtown Chicago). If you've ever seen movies set in the big city they are pretty accurate....the horns honk, and the machines are really working on the roads and sidewalk, and lots of people walking thru downtown.
We ventured a block and a half over to what used to be called the "Sears tower". It has been re-named to the "Willis Tower". We went up to the 103rd story and got to look out the windows. Again, awesome pictures. It was a little scary, other than an airplane I've never been that high off the ground. It was cool.
Then it was back on the train and heading for Garden City. We finally got to Garden City train station at 7:30 Wednesday morning (we were delayed an hour for flash flood warnings). Got home and slept for the rest of the morning.
Wednesday was our day of being lazy and now we are almost back to normal life (Scott still isn't back to work yet).
This was a great trip and Scott and I have already decided we are eventually going to do it again. Now that we know more what to expect the trip will be smoother next time.
Hope to have a post filled with pictures for you soon.
God bless you.
We got on the train at 11:30 pm. in Garden City on Wednesday June 2. Since it was bedtime, we pretty much just slept until we reached Kansas City (where the train stopped for like 45 minutes). It was after Kansas City that it got a little more exciting. A drunk guy decided to board the train and a couple hours later in La Plata, MO. he was escorted off by a police officer. Poor guy couldn't even stand up straight, let alone tell the officer if he had any personal belongings.
We went over the Mississippi River and just saw some very pretty scenery as we went through Missouri, Iowa, and Illinois (and I think a corner of Indiana).
We got to Chicago at 3-something and had a two hour lay-over. We were a little nervous to venture out, so we stayed in the train station. But this was not a bad decision, because we went to the "Great Hall" in the old part of Union Station. It was so beautiful. I will eventually post pictures of it, but for now, I just don't have the time to get it done. I guess there have been movies filmed in this "Great Hall." I can't wait to start researching and finding out what they are so I can watch them and recognize the room.
We got back on the train two hours later and were on our way to Grand Rapids. Pretty uneventful.....we were pretty tired by this time. We got to Grand Rapids at 10:30-ish (Thursday night). Scott's brother picked us up and we went to his house and got a quick house tour and went to bed.
We woke up Friday morning ready to get on with the sight-seeing. We slept in a bunch and had breakfast out on their deck. Did you know that Michigan gets hardly any wind, and they don't have the pesky bugs that we can get? We were able to eat breakfast in peace (while watching Alvin, Simon, and Theodore play in the yard...lol...really)
We went to a music festival for a couple hours right around lunch-time and saw some groups perform, but then we went and got Amy (Kevin's wife) from work and went home to eat some supper.
After supper we went to a baseball game (the Whitecaps). It's the farm league for the Detroit Tigers. The Tiger Mascot was there...it was cool. Again I got lots of pictures. Martie and Scott ate Dippin' Dots for the first time at this game..it was exciting. And our team even won.
Saturday....we had an even better day. We drove to Shipshewana(sp?), Indiana. This is an Amish community that is a big tourist place. We went to an Amish grocery store, saw Amish made furniture, and even went for a buggy ride with an Amish guy. He showed us some of the town and a little bit of the country around the town. We saw many little shops and ate at a small deli (awesome sandwiches) for lunch. We visited a cheese place, a popcorn farm, and even a honey farm. Some of these places don't even have electricity in thier stores. It really showed us how spoiled we are.
That night we ate at a huge Amish restaurant. The food was all home-made, really home-made and for dessert we had home-made pie. The best and biggest pieces of pie I have ever eaten. Wow.
Sunday was pretty calm. We visited Kevin and Amy's church and then visited Amy's parents (and went on thier paddle boat in the lake behind thier house). After that we just went back to Keven and Amy's house and watched tv and fell asleep.
Monday we went to Lake Michigan and saw a light house, a coast guard station, and lots of water (duh). The water was pretty and there were tons of boats. The pictures describe everything about that better.
Then we went to a place called "Craig's Cruisers". This is where we rode go-carts, bumper boats, and played some arcade games. Scott tried to play a semi-truck racing game, but it was broken....darn. Then we ate Mongolian BBQ (a first for Martie). It was good.
Tuesday was our going home day. We got on the train in Kalamazoo, Michigan and again went to Chicago. This time our lay-over was 3 hours...and we decided to venture out a little. I'll admit the big city scared me a little (we were in the heart of downtown Chicago). If you've ever seen movies set in the big city they are pretty accurate....the horns honk, and the machines are really working on the roads and sidewalk, and lots of people walking thru downtown.
We ventured a block and a half over to what used to be called the "Sears tower". It has been re-named to the "Willis Tower". We went up to the 103rd story and got to look out the windows. Again, awesome pictures. It was a little scary, other than an airplane I've never been that high off the ground. It was cool.
Then it was back on the train and heading for Garden City. We finally got to Garden City train station at 7:30 Wednesday morning (we were delayed an hour for flash flood warnings). Got home and slept for the rest of the morning.
Wednesday was our day of being lazy and now we are almost back to normal life (Scott still isn't back to work yet).
This was a great trip and Scott and I have already decided we are eventually going to do it again. Now that we know more what to expect the trip will be smoother next time.
Hope to have a post filled with pictures for you soon.
God bless you.
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
Song of the Week
Ok, we were in Michigan for almost a week, so I haven't posted for awhile. My first post I guess will be the song of the week. I forgot about this song (sort of) until someone commented on the lyrics for it on my facebook page. So I re-listened to it and realized that I need this song right now as I learn go say good-bye to another "angel" baby..my sweet Lily Rose.
If you're going through some tough times, just sit back and listen (maybe read the lyrics) and remember that you are not alone, no matter what.
You're Not Alone
I search for love
When the night came and it closed in
I was alone
but you found me where I was hiding
and though I'll never ever be the same
It was the sweetest voice that called my name
singing
You're not alone
For I am here
let me wipe away every fear
My love I've never left your side
I have seen you through the darkest night
and I'm the one that's loved you all your life
All of your life
You cry yourself to sleep
cause the hurt is real
and the pain cuts deep
All hope seems lost
With heartache your closest friend
and everyone else long gone
You've had to face the music on your own
but there is a sweeter song that calls you home
**sayin'
You're not alone
For I am here
let me wipe away your every tear
My love I've never left your side
I have seen you through the darkest nights
And I'm the one that's love you all your life
All your life
Faithful and true... Forever
For my love will carry you....
You're not alone
for I... I am here
let me wipe away every fear... Oh yeah
My love I've never left your side
I have seen you through your darkest nights
Your darkest nights
And I'm the one that's loved you all your life
All of your life
If you're going through some tough times, just sit back and listen (maybe read the lyrics) and remember that you are not alone, no matter what.
You're Not Alone
I search for love
When the night came and it closed in
I was alone
but you found me where I was hiding
and though I'll never ever be the same
It was the sweetest voice that called my name
singing
You're not alone
For I am here
let me wipe away every fear
My love I've never left your side
I have seen you through the darkest night
and I'm the one that's loved you all your life
All of your life
You cry yourself to sleep
cause the hurt is real
and the pain cuts deep
All hope seems lost
With heartache your closest friend
and everyone else long gone
You've had to face the music on your own
but there is a sweeter song that calls you home
**sayin'
You're not alone
For I am here
let me wipe away your every tear
My love I've never left your side
I have seen you through the darkest nights
And I'm the one that's love you all your life
All your life
Faithful and true... Forever
For my love will carry you....
You're not alone
for I... I am here
let me wipe away every fear... Oh yeah
My love I've never left your side
I have seen you through your darkest nights
Your darkest nights
And I'm the one that's loved you all your life
All of your life
Friday, May 28, 2010
Touching Heaven
I don't even know if I can find words to describe how I'm feeling right now. I'm devastated (once again), but amidst those feelings of loss and disappointment I feel the arms of God surrounding me. I can't say that I've ever really felt it like this before. I'm sad, don't get me wrong, but right now I am feeling the love of God in a way I've never felt. I've always known that my babies are with Him in Heaven, but for some reason it seems more real today than it ever has.
It's almost as if I'm so close to heaven right now that I could just reach out and touch it. That I just might be able to get a small glimpse of my sweet angels and maybe even touch them for one precious moment. Maybe right now it's God's way of comforting me, or maybe I'm really grasping the fact that Heaven is real.
But if I can't be there to hold my babies, rock them to sleep, or sing them lullabies, then I couldn't ask for a better father to them than our Heavenly Father. It's like the song says, "I can't imagine Heaven's lullabies" to have Jesus singing lullabies to you must be the best thing ever.
So, yes, I do have bad news in the fact that one more Soodsma baby is gone.....but I have the hope and promise of seeing them again and I will cling to that with all my heart.
Love to you all.
It's almost as if I'm so close to heaven right now that I could just reach out and touch it. That I just might be able to get a small glimpse of my sweet angels and maybe even touch them for one precious moment. Maybe right now it's God's way of comforting me, or maybe I'm really grasping the fact that Heaven is real.
But if I can't be there to hold my babies, rock them to sleep, or sing them lullabies, then I couldn't ask for a better father to them than our Heavenly Father. It's like the song says, "I can't imagine Heaven's lullabies" to have Jesus singing lullabies to you must be the best thing ever.
So, yes, I do have bad news in the fact that one more Soodsma baby is gone.....but I have the hope and promise of seeing them again and I will cling to that with all my heart.
Love to you all.
Song of the Week
Yes, the song of this week is not exactly happy and cheerful...but it's on my mind, so it now became the song of the week. I've been singing this song for the past few days in my head along with the song "I Will Carry You" by Selah. I added it to the player below, so you can listen to it as you read the lyrics.
God Bless you and Keep holding on to his hand as we continue to do so on our end.
Glory Baby
Glory baby you slipped away as fast as we could say baby…baby..
You were growing, what happened dear?
You disappeared on us baby…baby..
Heaven will hold you before we do
Heaven will keep you safe until we’re home with you…
Until we’re home with you…
Miss you everyday
Miss you in every way
But we know there’s a
day when we will hold you
We will hold you
You’ll kiss our tears away
When we’re home to stay
Can’t wait for the day when we will see you
We will see you
But baby let sweet Jesus hold you
‘till mom and dad can hold you…
You’ll just have heaven before we do
You’ll just have heaven before we do
Sweet little babies, it’s hard to
understand it ‘cause we’re hurting
We are hurting
But there is healing
And we know we’re stronger people through the growing
And in knowing-
That all things work together for our good
And God works His purposes just like He said He would…
Just like He said He would…
BRIDGE:
I can’t imagine heaven’s lullabies
and what they must sound like
But I will rest in knowing, heaven is your home
And it’s all you’ll ever know…all you’ll ever know…
God Bless you and Keep holding on to his hand as we continue to do so on our end.
Glory Baby
Glory baby you slipped away as fast as we could say baby…baby..
You were growing, what happened dear?
You disappeared on us baby…baby..
Heaven will hold you before we do
Heaven will keep you safe until we’re home with you…
Until we’re home with you…
Miss you everyday
Miss you in every way
But we know there’s a
day when we will hold you
We will hold you
You’ll kiss our tears away
When we’re home to stay
Can’t wait for the day when we will see you
We will see you
But baby let sweet Jesus hold you
‘till mom and dad can hold you…
You’ll just have heaven before we do
You’ll just have heaven before we do
Sweet little babies, it’s hard to
understand it ‘cause we’re hurting
We are hurting
But there is healing
And we know we’re stronger people through the growing
And in knowing-
That all things work together for our good
And God works His purposes just like He said He would…
Just like He said He would…
BRIDGE:
I can’t imagine heaven’s lullabies
and what they must sound like
But I will rest in knowing, heaven is your home
And it’s all you’ll ever know…all you’ll ever know…
Tuesday, May 11, 2010
Song of the Week
For this week after Mother's Day, I have chosen a special song just for you mothers out there. After you take that vacation I told you about earlier, sit back, relax, and listen to this song that will remind you what a special gift we have in our children. Enjoy! (the song is on my player below)
Mother's Prayer
I pray you'll be my eyes
And watch her where she goes
And help her to be wise
Help me to let go
Every mother's prayer
Every child knows
Lead her to a place
Guide her with your grace
To a place where she'll be safe
I pray she finds your light
And holds it in her heart
As darkness falls each night
Remind her where you are
Every mother's prayer
Every child knows
Need to find a place
Guide her to a place
Give her faith so she'll be safe
Lead her to a place
Guide her with your grace
To a place where she'll be safe
Mother's Prayer
I pray you'll be my eyes
And watch her where she goes
And help her to be wise
Help me to let go
Every mother's prayer
Every child knows
Lead her to a place
Guide her with your grace
To a place where she'll be safe
I pray she finds your light
And holds it in her heart
As darkness falls each night
Remind her where you are
Every mother's prayer
Every child knows
Need to find a place
Guide her to a place
Give her faith so she'll be safe
Lead her to a place
Guide her with your grace
To a place where she'll be safe
Being a Mother
I've come to realize that there is one thing that helps with being a mother. I think there is lots of advice that people try to give, but I want to share only one.
**There are times that Mom needs to get away....away from her child(ren) and even away from her husband. Although at times a mom should get away with her husband without children....she needs both kinds of vacations.
A mom needs to visit family, go to a hotel, get a spa treatment (massage, manicure, pedicure, facial), visit a friend. It can even be as simple as going to the mall or a department store alone (so that she can shop with no interruptions and take as long as she wants)
After a mom comes back from one of these special "vacations" she is a new woman. She is able to be the wife and mother that she wants to be, instead of the wife and mother that she was turning into.....which happens to have a close resemblance to frankenstein or dracula.
After coming back, this woman seems to resemble the Glenda, the good witch of the North (from "The Wizard of Oz"). This is a very huge change, and your husband will notice....if your children are older, they will notice as well. Your household will run smoother and you won't be as "anal" (yes, I used that word. We use this word a lot in our house to define a parent that is way too overprotective and tends to micro-manage the child(ren).
A mom has a clearer mind after a "vacation" and is able to choose her battles a lot more wisely. This helps both parents and the child stays sane as well.
So, my one advice for this week after Mother's Day? If you haven't taken some time for yourself and you feel like you need it, DO NOT feel guilty about taking that special vacation. Your family will thank you!
God Bless and loves to all. And hope everyone had a very special mothers day!
**There are times that Mom needs to get away....away from her child(ren) and even away from her husband. Although at times a mom should get away with her husband without children....she needs both kinds of vacations.
A mom needs to visit family, go to a hotel, get a spa treatment (massage, manicure, pedicure, facial), visit a friend. It can even be as simple as going to the mall or a department store alone (so that she can shop with no interruptions and take as long as she wants)
After a mom comes back from one of these special "vacations" she is a new woman. She is able to be the wife and mother that she wants to be, instead of the wife and mother that she was turning into.....which happens to have a close resemblance to frankenstein or dracula.
After coming back, this woman seems to resemble the Glenda, the good witch of the North (from "The Wizard of Oz"). This is a very huge change, and your husband will notice....if your children are older, they will notice as well. Your household will run smoother and you won't be as "anal" (yes, I used that word. We use this word a lot in our house to define a parent that is way too overprotective and tends to micro-manage the child(ren).
A mom has a clearer mind after a "vacation" and is able to choose her battles a lot more wisely. This helps both parents and the child stays sane as well.
So, my one advice for this week after Mother's Day? If you haven't taken some time for yourself and you feel like you need it, DO NOT feel guilty about taking that special vacation. Your family will thank you!
God Bless and loves to all. And hope everyone had a very special mothers day!
Tuesday, May 4, 2010
God-Moment
I had a dr. appt today in Dodge City (yes, more fertility stuff). I have to drive through Dighton to get to Dodge, and they were doing road construction between Healy and Dighton. I ended up stopping and waiting for like 10 minutes.
The lady holding the stop/slow sign was really nice (found out her name was Rebecca). She came and talked to me and somehow we got on the subject of our families (I was mentioning Josh actually). It webbed from there to her asking me if I had kids. I told her I had a teenage daughter the same age as my younger brother. Which led to another discussion for a few minutes.
I told her as I was explaining things that our daughter is adopted. She asked me if we couldn't have kids. I told her so far we were not able to, but we were always trying.
Her next question was way cool. "Do you believe in Jesus?" What did I answer? Duh.....I answered that absolutely I believed in Jesus. So she asked me if I trusted her to do something. I said sure. So she reached in my van and put her hand on my belly and prayed for me right then and there. It was a very heartfelt prayer that God would open my womb.
Ok, some people might think that this lady was weird. I didn't. I believe in the power of prayer, and if by the act of some stranger we get pregnant this summer, I will tell my story everywhere I get a chance.
I know God uses people, God has people that are his "angels" here on earth, that do His work. So maybe, just maybe, this woman was one of God's "angels" and she was just doing God's work here on Earth.
My prayer request now? That this summer, the treatments that Scott and I will be doing (meds actually) will work and that we would be expecting a little Soodsma soon.
God Bless you all and loves to everyone.
The lady holding the stop/slow sign was really nice (found out her name was Rebecca). She came and talked to me and somehow we got on the subject of our families (I was mentioning Josh actually). It webbed from there to her asking me if I had kids. I told her I had a teenage daughter the same age as my younger brother. Which led to another discussion for a few minutes.
I told her as I was explaining things that our daughter is adopted. She asked me if we couldn't have kids. I told her so far we were not able to, but we were always trying.
Her next question was way cool. "Do you believe in Jesus?" What did I answer? Duh.....I answered that absolutely I believed in Jesus. So she asked me if I trusted her to do something. I said sure. So she reached in my van and put her hand on my belly and prayed for me right then and there. It was a very heartfelt prayer that God would open my womb.
Ok, some people might think that this lady was weird. I didn't. I believe in the power of prayer, and if by the act of some stranger we get pregnant this summer, I will tell my story everywhere I get a chance.
I know God uses people, God has people that are his "angels" here on earth, that do His work. So maybe, just maybe, this woman was one of God's "angels" and she was just doing God's work here on Earth.
My prayer request now? That this summer, the treatments that Scott and I will be doing (meds actually) will work and that we would be expecting a little Soodsma soon.
God Bless you all and loves to everyone.
Friday, April 23, 2010
The Healy River
Normally, no, our town does not have a river running down the middle of it. But after last night, guess what, we have a river in the place of the highway. And it goes through the very middle of the town.
Scott and I had to be out in it last night (twice), so I snapped pictures (like 50 of them) of different places in town. Scott had to check on things at work, otherwise we would have stayed home. It was so weird seeing my town like this.
While we were out the first time with our van, there were spots that the water came up to the bottom of our doors. There were also place that we could not go, because we would have been stuck...the water was just too deep.
We talked to someone in town and he said that he had gotten like 4.70 inches and that north of town someone had gotten like 7 inches. Wow...that's a lot of water for Healy.
Did I mention yet that this storm that dropped so much rain was also accompanied by a tornado (didn't hit town)? What a night, what a night.
There are a lot of people with flooded basements (obviously) and some that are even having sewer problems. Wow! Who would have thought that our town would be so wet.
The best I can do is just show you the pictures, so here goes. I put the rest of the pictures on my facebook page, so if you are friends with me on facebook, check out the rest of the pictures.
God Bless and hopefully I don't float away. Loves to you all.
Scott and I had to be out in it last night (twice), so I snapped pictures (like 50 of them) of different places in town. Scott had to check on things at work, otherwise we would have stayed home. It was so weird seeing my town like this.
While we were out the first time with our van, there were spots that the water came up to the bottom of our doors. There were also place that we could not go, because we would have been stuck...the water was just too deep.
We talked to someone in town and he said that he had gotten like 4.70 inches and that north of town someone had gotten like 7 inches. Wow...that's a lot of water for Healy.
Did I mention yet that this storm that dropped so much rain was also accompanied by a tornado (didn't hit town)? What a night, what a night.
There are a lot of people with flooded basements (obviously) and some that are even having sewer problems. Wow! Who would have thought that our town would be so wet.
The best I can do is just show you the pictures, so here goes. I put the rest of the pictures on my facebook page, so if you are friends with me on facebook, check out the rest of the pictures.
God Bless and hopefully I don't float away. Loves to you all.
Thursday, April 22, 2010
Prom
Ok, a life-milestone. My daughter is about to go to prom. It's her first, so the pictures will be plentiful, I can promise that.
I understand from my days of going to prom that having a "guy" date is the best thing in the world...but I have to admit that I'm a little glad that her first "date" is her aunt Michaela. I know she will be safe and taken care of.
I agree with my sister-in-law that time does go by too fast and I'm not sure how to slow it down. The problem that I have is that I don't get much time with Martie anyway (since we got her at the age of 13) and then it has to go so fast.
I don't think that at the age of 31 or 32 I will be ready for an empty nest. I keep thinking about how we will fill our house again after she's gone (or start filling it before she leaves). I want to adopt an infant or toddler so bad, but it just doesn't seem to be in God's will.
Ok, wait a second, I was talking about prom. Enough with the drama, right?
Martie even gets to serve at the prom banquet, so that's exciting. She will be there...just not eating all dressed up like the juniors and seniors. But her time will come.
She has asked me to do her hair (Michaela asked me too) so I will be very busy on Saturday doing make-up, hair, probably painting nails (even putting on fake ones maybe). So our house will become the Soodsma beauty spa...lol...hmmmm.
And to top it all off, after I dress up the girls (maybe pull my hair up quick and put on a nice shirt and pants), watch them go to prom and make sure they are safe, Scott is taking me out on a date. All alone, just the two of us. I love when it's just the two of us. We act like teenagers again and hold hands, and get all smoochy smoochy. Actually we usually end up going to wal-mart or hastings and buying something for Martie. Since she's also the topic of most of our conversations on a date.
Anyway, that's how my weekend will be going. Busy, tiring, but lots of fun.
God bless and loves to everyone.
I understand from my days of going to prom that having a "guy" date is the best thing in the world...but I have to admit that I'm a little glad that her first "date" is her aunt Michaela. I know she will be safe and taken care of.
I agree with my sister-in-law that time does go by too fast and I'm not sure how to slow it down. The problem that I have is that I don't get much time with Martie anyway (since we got her at the age of 13) and then it has to go so fast.
I don't think that at the age of 31 or 32 I will be ready for an empty nest. I keep thinking about how we will fill our house again after she's gone (or start filling it before she leaves). I want to adopt an infant or toddler so bad, but it just doesn't seem to be in God's will.
Ok, wait a second, I was talking about prom. Enough with the drama, right?
Martie even gets to serve at the prom banquet, so that's exciting. She will be there...just not eating all dressed up like the juniors and seniors. But her time will come.
She has asked me to do her hair (Michaela asked me too) so I will be very busy on Saturday doing make-up, hair, probably painting nails (even putting on fake ones maybe). So our house will become the Soodsma beauty spa...lol...hmmmm.
And to top it all off, after I dress up the girls (maybe pull my hair up quick and put on a nice shirt and pants), watch them go to prom and make sure they are safe, Scott is taking me out on a date. All alone, just the two of us. I love when it's just the two of us. We act like teenagers again and hold hands, and get all smoochy smoochy. Actually we usually end up going to wal-mart or hastings and buying something for Martie. Since she's also the topic of most of our conversations on a date.
Anyway, that's how my weekend will be going. Busy, tiring, but lots of fun.
God bless and loves to everyone.
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
Excited
I'm excited. As you read this, my excitement will probably be obvious.
We are going to look at that house this weekend. I can't wait to see it. I also talked to the guy selling it and he is willing to lower the price for what we can afford. He will also lower it quite a bit if we want to take it as is (and fix it up to our liking....if it's mostly cosmetic stuff). I hope the house looks bigger on the inside than on the outside.
Like I said before, I'm so ready to own my own house. To fix it up like I want it done. To paint it some colors I might never do myself. I plan to ask my sis-in-law, Desi, to help with that. She did an awesome job on her house, so I decided that makes her an expert. I tend to just be a boring, plain, go with white, kind of person.
So I guess after this weekend I'll maybe have more news about it. Pray that God will let us own something that is all ours.
God bless and love to ya'll!
We are going to look at that house this weekend. I can't wait to see it. I also talked to the guy selling it and he is willing to lower the price for what we can afford. He will also lower it quite a bit if we want to take it as is (and fix it up to our liking....if it's mostly cosmetic stuff). I hope the house looks bigger on the inside than on the outside.
Like I said before, I'm so ready to own my own house. To fix it up like I want it done. To paint it some colors I might never do myself. I plan to ask my sis-in-law, Desi, to help with that. She did an awesome job on her house, so I decided that makes her an expert. I tend to just be a boring, plain, go with white, kind of person.
So I guess after this weekend I'll maybe have more news about it. Pray that God will let us own something that is all ours.
God bless and love to ya'll!
Wednesday, April 14, 2010
Song of the Week
Ok, here it is. The song of the week for this week. Scott helped me pick it out, so I'll give the credit to him. He loves this song and we thought you just might like it too.
Where I'm From
On a three hour flight from Memphis to LA
I was silently celebrating my first class upgrade
Laughing at my jeans and my boots
Beside those high dollar shoes and Armani suits
When the gentleman next to me said the drinks up here are free
So if you'd like the first one can be on me
He said i'm headin back from business in New York and Rome
Tell me son, Where do you call home
I said I'm from the front pew of a wooden white church
A courthouse clock it still dont work
Where a man's word means everything
Where moms and dads were high school flames
Gave their children grandmothers maiden name
Yes it may not sound like much
But its where I'm from
So we drank that round and then another
There wasn't a topic in this world we did not cover
He said I headed out west when I was barely 19
Just a kid chasing my dreams
I said I'm flying out here to pick up my big brother
He's been fighting the cancer they discovered
But he called last night and said I think this is the end
So come take me home to my family and my friends
Where the quarterback dates the homecoming queen
The truck's a ford and the tractor's green
And Amazing Grace is what we sing
Well there's a county fair every fall
And your friends are there no matter when you call
Yeah It may not sound like much but it's
Where I'm from
And as we stood to claim the bags we checked
He said I'll pray for your brother and did I mention that
Italian suits haven't always been my style
See I was quarterback of my high school team
We took state back in '63
And my wife, she's still my homecoming queen
Cause I'm from the front pew of a wooden white church
A courthouse clock that still don't work
Where a man's word means everything
Where moms and dads were high school flames
Gave their children grandmothers maiden name
Yes it may not sound like much
I said it may not sound like much but it's where I'm from
it's where I'm from
Where I'm from
Amazing Grace, how sweet the sound....
God Bless you all. Love ya!
Where I'm From
On a three hour flight from Memphis to LA
I was silently celebrating my first class upgrade
Laughing at my jeans and my boots
Beside those high dollar shoes and Armani suits
When the gentleman next to me said the drinks up here are free
So if you'd like the first one can be on me
He said i'm headin back from business in New York and Rome
Tell me son, Where do you call home
I said I'm from the front pew of a wooden white church
A courthouse clock it still dont work
Where a man's word means everything
Where moms and dads were high school flames
Gave their children grandmothers maiden name
Yes it may not sound like much
But its where I'm from
So we drank that round and then another
There wasn't a topic in this world we did not cover
He said I headed out west when I was barely 19
Just a kid chasing my dreams
I said I'm flying out here to pick up my big brother
He's been fighting the cancer they discovered
But he called last night and said I think this is the end
So come take me home to my family and my friends
Where the quarterback dates the homecoming queen
The truck's a ford and the tractor's green
And Amazing Grace is what we sing
Well there's a county fair every fall
And your friends are there no matter when you call
Yeah It may not sound like much but it's
Where I'm from
And as we stood to claim the bags we checked
He said I'll pray for your brother and did I mention that
Italian suits haven't always been my style
See I was quarterback of my high school team
We took state back in '63
And my wife, she's still my homecoming queen
Cause I'm from the front pew of a wooden white church
A courthouse clock that still don't work
Where a man's word means everything
Where moms and dads were high school flames
Gave their children grandmothers maiden name
Yes it may not sound like much
I said it may not sound like much but it's where I'm from
it's where I'm from
Where I'm from
Amazing Grace, how sweet the sound....
God Bless you all. Love ya!
Sunday, April 11, 2010
Houses, Houses, Houses
I have to confess something. I'm itching to own my own home again...I didn't get to pick the last one I owned. I like living in a home that is rent-free, don't get me wrong. It's saved us a lot of money. But there's a time in a woman's life when she wants a house that she can really make her own. Yes, the people that own our home are very nice, and if I asked, I would get to decorate it up a little more than it is (cost on us). But who wants to pay for the decorating and then someday have to leave it there?
So, remedy for that? We have been looking at houses in Dighton.
Why did we pick Dighton? Well, there are a few reasons:
1. Martie may eventually end up in school over there (depends on what happens in Healy)
2. We would love to be closer to our church (since I'm the worship leader)
3. My brother and his wife live there (and they are having a baby and I don't want to miss anything....it's hard enough I have to miss some things about my nieces in Topeka)
4. We don't want to buy a house in Healy, it just seems smarter that way. We don't feel like we will be here forever.
I think those are our main reasons. Do they sound logical enough? I've watched my brother, Michael fix his house up and it's so beautiful. Then I got to help my brother, Matt, move into his brand new house (which is also beautiful). So what did I start thinking? "What about me? I want a beautiful house of my own."
So here I am, actually waiting to hear from a guy who is selling a house in Dighton. It's within our price range (easily). And it has the right number of bedrooms, bathrooms, and it has a full, finished basement. What more could we ask for? All we have to do now is find a good time to go look at it and see if it's really what we want.
A part of me wants to just jump and tell the guy, "we'll take it right now." But then my smarter side says, "don't be stupid about it. You're not in a hurry, so take your time and let God lead you to the perfect house."
We told Martie about it tonight and I told her how I found the house. She proceeded to tell me that it had to be a God-thing. She was just sure of it. (I found it on Nex-Tech, just browsing for fun...go figure)
Well, it may be a God-thing or it may not be. I guess time will tell. And for now this impatient woman will just have to learn some patience if it kills her in the process. I'm so not good at waiting to make decisions. I'm so like my father and I make snap decisions and usually think about them after the fact. (sometimes good, sometimes bad) So it's good that I'm married to a man who is a thinker. He's good at sometimes taking weeks to think about something (drives me absolutely bananas).
Anyway, I better go find something else to do to keep my mind off of houses (like actually sleeping, since it's 5:00 am.) Gotta get up for church in just a couple hours.
God bless you and keep you. Loves to all!
So, remedy for that? We have been looking at houses in Dighton.
Why did we pick Dighton? Well, there are a few reasons:
1. Martie may eventually end up in school over there (depends on what happens in Healy)
2. We would love to be closer to our church (since I'm the worship leader)
3. My brother and his wife live there (and they are having a baby and I don't want to miss anything....it's hard enough I have to miss some things about my nieces in Topeka)
4. We don't want to buy a house in Healy, it just seems smarter that way. We don't feel like we will be here forever.
I think those are our main reasons. Do they sound logical enough? I've watched my brother, Michael fix his house up and it's so beautiful. Then I got to help my brother, Matt, move into his brand new house (which is also beautiful). So what did I start thinking? "What about me? I want a beautiful house of my own."
So here I am, actually waiting to hear from a guy who is selling a house in Dighton. It's within our price range (easily). And it has the right number of bedrooms, bathrooms, and it has a full, finished basement. What more could we ask for? All we have to do now is find a good time to go look at it and see if it's really what we want.
A part of me wants to just jump and tell the guy, "we'll take it right now." But then my smarter side says, "don't be stupid about it. You're not in a hurry, so take your time and let God lead you to the perfect house."
We told Martie about it tonight and I told her how I found the house. She proceeded to tell me that it had to be a God-thing. She was just sure of it. (I found it on Nex-Tech, just browsing for fun...go figure)
Well, it may be a God-thing or it may not be. I guess time will tell. And for now this impatient woman will just have to learn some patience if it kills her in the process. I'm so not good at waiting to make decisions. I'm so like my father and I make snap decisions and usually think about them after the fact. (sometimes good, sometimes bad) So it's good that I'm married to a man who is a thinker. He's good at sometimes taking weeks to think about something (drives me absolutely bananas).
Anyway, I better go find something else to do to keep my mind off of houses (like actually sleeping, since it's 5:00 am.) Gotta get up for church in just a couple hours.
God bless you and keep you. Loves to all!
Thursday, April 8, 2010
Song of the Week
I was a little late getting the song of the week up. But here it is. I would like you to hear the song that Scott and I did for our special....it's not us singing though.
It is a duet between Jesus and His mother, Mary. He is telling her that it's ok and that this is God's plan for Him. And she is questioning, wondering why God would have His own Son killed. She is hurting because it's her Son too. It's an awesome song. Just listen to it. Yes, I added it to the playlist below. It's the last song on the list.
(Brad Paisley)
Mother - do not cry for me
All of this is exactly how it's supposed to be
(Sara Evans)
I'm right here. Can you hear my voice?
My life, my love, my Lord....my baby boy
(Brad Paisley)
As they nail me to this tree
Just know the Father waits for me
(Sara Evans)
God how can this be your will?
To have your son and my son killed?
(Brad Paisley)
Whatever happens...whatever you see...
Whatever your eyes tell you has become of me
This is not...
Not the end...
I am making all things new again
(Sara Evans)
I remember when you were born
In that manger where I first held
You in my arms
So many miracles and lives you've changed
And this world repays you how?
With all this pain
(Brad Paisley)
As they nail me to this tree
Just know the Father waits for me
(Sara Evans)
God how can this be your will?
To have your son and my son killed?
(Both)
Whatever happens(Whatever happens)...whatever you see(I don't wanna see)...
Whatever your eyes tell you has become of me
This is not(Tell me it's not...
Not the end...
I am making all things new again
(Brad Paisley)
Whatever happens...whatever you see...
Whatever your eyes tell you has become of me
This is not(No)...
Not the end...
I am making all things new again
It is a duet between Jesus and His mother, Mary. He is telling her that it's ok and that this is God's plan for Him. And she is questioning, wondering why God would have His own Son killed. She is hurting because it's her Son too. It's an awesome song. Just listen to it. Yes, I added it to the playlist below. It's the last song on the list.
(Brad Paisley)
Mother - do not cry for me
All of this is exactly how it's supposed to be
(Sara Evans)
I'm right here. Can you hear my voice?
My life, my love, my Lord....my baby boy
(Brad Paisley)
As they nail me to this tree
Just know the Father waits for me
(Sara Evans)
God how can this be your will?
To have your son and my son killed?
(Brad Paisley)
Whatever happens...whatever you see...
Whatever your eyes tell you has become of me
This is not...
Not the end...
I am making all things new again
(Sara Evans)
I remember when you were born
In that manger where I first held
You in my arms
So many miracles and lives you've changed
And this world repays you how?
With all this pain
(Brad Paisley)
As they nail me to this tree
Just know the Father waits for me
(Sara Evans)
God how can this be your will?
To have your son and my son killed?
(Both)
Whatever happens(Whatever happens)...whatever you see(I don't wanna see)...
Whatever your eyes tell you has become of me
This is not(Tell me it's not...
Not the end...
I am making all things new again
(Brad Paisley)
Whatever happens...whatever you see...
Whatever your eyes tell you has become of me
This is not(No)...
Not the end...
I am making all things new again
Duet
You won't believe what I was able to do for Easter. I was able to convince Scott to sing a song with me. It was so great. I thought he sounded very good. I'm pretty sure this kind of thing won't happen very often, so I have to make a big deal out of it. We sang the song "New Again" by Brad Paisley and Sara Evans.
It's actually pretty funny how it happened. I set it up with my parents for me to sing a special at their church on Sunday. Well, I decided I wanted to sing that song, and it has to be a duet. So I called and asked my dad to sing it with me. He said he would rather have Scott do it with me.
So, I call up Scott and I asked him if he would like to be a Brad Paisley stunt double..LOL! He said, "why?" I kind of stalled around and then he tried to change the subject.
"Do you want to cut my hair, honey?" he asked me. What did I reply?
"I'll cut your hair if you sing this song with me."
So later that night I cut his hair.....what happened Sunday? Of course, he sang with me.
Isn't that funny? Maybe he'll ask me to cut his hair again at a time we can sing another special. Although, he told me that if this was going to become a habit, he would start going somewhere else to get his hair cut. What a guy.
Just thought I would share this with you. I have to figure out how to put the video on the internet (facebook and here) so it might be awhile. I'm kind of computer illiterate sometimes. Hope I can share it with you soon.
It's actually pretty funny how it happened. I set it up with my parents for me to sing a special at their church on Sunday. Well, I decided I wanted to sing that song, and it has to be a duet. So I called and asked my dad to sing it with me. He said he would rather have Scott do it with me.
So, I call up Scott and I asked him if he would like to be a Brad Paisley stunt double..LOL! He said, "why?" I kind of stalled around and then he tried to change the subject.
"Do you want to cut my hair, honey?" he asked me. What did I reply?
"I'll cut your hair if you sing this song with me."
So later that night I cut his hair.....what happened Sunday? Of course, he sang with me.
Isn't that funny? Maybe he'll ask me to cut his hair again at a time we can sing another special. Although, he told me that if this was going to become a habit, he would start going somewhere else to get his hair cut. What a guy.
Just thought I would share this with you. I have to figure out how to put the video on the internet (facebook and here) so it might be awhile. I'm kind of computer illiterate sometimes. Hope I can share it with you soon.
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
Disney Vacation??
I've said this to people before, and so far it hasn't worked out. But this morning I woke up and was reading a book. I shouldn't tell you what book it was, because it is a Jr. High level book. I just love them. Ever heard of the babysitters club?
Anyway, I'm reading one where the whole club gets to go on a cruise and then to Disney World. So what does my mind do? I decide it's time to really honestly start saving for our "dream vacation".
So downstairs I go to work with our budget (once more...it seems that's all I do anymore). I knew that I just had to put in a category for "vacation savings". So I tweak a little here, a little there. And...tada!...there is a spot for our vacation savings.
Then I decided that I would see just how long this will really take to pull off (with only about $50 a month put away). Well, I figured out our cost and guess what...we just might be able to go for Martie's 30th birthday!
Ok, it won't be that bad. Actually we pay off what's on our pick-up at the beginning of next year (putting some extra money towards it). Then whatever we put towards the pick-up(extra and all) I think I will put in our vacation savings. We should be have close to $500 of our money by the time the pick-up is paid off and then if we put that money back it should only take us a year of saving that to get us where we want to be. So I think we should be able to go the summer before Martie is a Senior.
Ok, I know I keep saying that I am going to save this money for Disney and that money for Disney. Then I never do, but I am itching to go back and I just can't let my daughter not experience the trip.
I've decided that we will get her a vacation savings as well and she can help earn the money for herself. Have her pay for a little of the trip and her souvenirs.
If for some reason we put back all extra, Martie helps, we somehow end up earning some extra money and putting it away, there's a chance we could do this all next year....but I'm not gonna get my hopes up that much.
I think our best bet for going will be at the end of May or beginning of June, but I really wish we could go in September. That's when we went the last time and it's cheaper and the weather is beautiful (as long as there's no hurricanes), and the crowds aren't as big. But I'll take what I can get. This is just so exciting, knowing that I have a real plan now...and it's on paper.
So we'll just see what happens. Our "Magical, Disney Vacation" might just be a reality.
Anyway, I'm reading one where the whole club gets to go on a cruise and then to Disney World. So what does my mind do? I decide it's time to really honestly start saving for our "dream vacation".
So downstairs I go to work with our budget (once more...it seems that's all I do anymore). I knew that I just had to put in a category for "vacation savings". So I tweak a little here, a little there. And...tada!...there is a spot for our vacation savings.
Then I decided that I would see just how long this will really take to pull off (with only about $50 a month put away). Well, I figured out our cost and guess what...we just might be able to go for Martie's 30th birthday!
Ok, it won't be that bad. Actually we pay off what's on our pick-up at the beginning of next year (putting some extra money towards it). Then whatever we put towards the pick-up(extra and all) I think I will put in our vacation savings. We should be have close to $500 of our money by the time the pick-up is paid off and then if we put that money back it should only take us a year of saving that to get us where we want to be. So I think we should be able to go the summer before Martie is a Senior.
Ok, I know I keep saying that I am going to save this money for Disney and that money for Disney. Then I never do, but I am itching to go back and I just can't let my daughter not experience the trip.
I've decided that we will get her a vacation savings as well and she can help earn the money for herself. Have her pay for a little of the trip and her souvenirs.
If for some reason we put back all extra, Martie helps, we somehow end up earning some extra money and putting it away, there's a chance we could do this all next year....but I'm not gonna get my hopes up that much.
I think our best bet for going will be at the end of May or beginning of June, but I really wish we could go in September. That's when we went the last time and it's cheaper and the weather is beautiful (as long as there's no hurricanes), and the crowds aren't as big. But I'll take what I can get. This is just so exciting, knowing that I have a real plan now...and it's on paper.
So we'll just see what happens. Our "Magical, Disney Vacation" might just be a reality.
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
Song of the Week
I've decided that I'm going to post the lyrics for the song of the week....and I hope to put that song on my playlist so you can hear it as you read the lyrics. This week I will start with a hymn called "I surrender All". The version I have, is sung by Crystal Lewis. It combines the song of the week with another of my favorites. So you're getting two for the price of one.
Just As I Am/I Surrender All
Just as I am, without one plea
But that Thy blood was shed for me
And that Thou bidd'st me come to Thee
O Lamb of God, I come! I come!
Just as I am and waiting not
To rid my sould of one dark blot,
To Thee whose blood can cleanse each spot,
O Lamb of God, I come! I come!
All to Jesus I surrender
All to Him I freely give
I will ever love and trust Him,
In His presence daily live
I surrender all, I surrender all
All to Thee, my blessed Savior, I surrender all
I surrender all
Enjoy!
Just As I Am/I Surrender All
Just as I am, without one plea
But that Thy blood was shed for me
And that Thou bidd'st me come to Thee
O Lamb of God, I come! I come!
Just as I am and waiting not
To rid my sould of one dark blot,
To Thee whose blood can cleanse each spot,
O Lamb of God, I come! I come!
All to Jesus I surrender
All to Him I freely give
I will ever love and trust Him,
In His presence daily live
I surrender all, I surrender all
All to Thee, my blessed Savior, I surrender all
I surrender all
Enjoy!
New Cd
Ok, since the blog has a name that mentions music, and our family loves music, you can't blame me for posting something about music. LOL! Well, we have plans to make a new cd this next winter. I am so excited about it. Actually I will be allowing others to help make some of the decisions about the cd.
For instance, when I get my camera back, I will put some pictures on here and you can vote for the picture you think should be the cover picture of the album.
Also, I will eventually put a list of hymns on here and you will get to vote for the ones you would like to hear on the album. I don't know the exact number yet, because we are actually working on a couple of original songs (shh...don't tell anyone).
Can I also ask a favor of you? We would like your prayers for the album.
*One, that we will be doing this for God and God alone, not to make ourselves popular
*Two, that God would provide the funds that are needed to make this album. We don't have them and we are trusting Him to get us what is needed.
I have to admit that this album already seems more fun than the first one. I also hope to polish up the fiddle and maybe play a little on there. Of course Scott will play the drums. (Martie's voice is still in the polishing process, but we are hoping to be able to let her record a couple songs on her own cd...which might be a home-made one)
Ok, that's the news for now. Just keep us in your prayers and pray that God will use our music to touch lives for Him.
God Bless you all!
For instance, when I get my camera back, I will put some pictures on here and you can vote for the picture you think should be the cover picture of the album.
Also, I will eventually put a list of hymns on here and you will get to vote for the ones you would like to hear on the album. I don't know the exact number yet, because we are actually working on a couple of original songs (shh...don't tell anyone).
Can I also ask a favor of you? We would like your prayers for the album.
*One, that we will be doing this for God and God alone, not to make ourselves popular
*Two, that God would provide the funds that are needed to make this album. We don't have them and we are trusting Him to get us what is needed.
I have to admit that this album already seems more fun than the first one. I also hope to polish up the fiddle and maybe play a little on there. Of course Scott will play the drums. (Martie's voice is still in the polishing process, but we are hoping to be able to let her record a couple songs on her own cd...which might be a home-made one)
Ok, that's the news for now. Just keep us in your prayers and pray that God will use our music to touch lives for Him.
God Bless you all!
Sunday, March 21, 2010
Great Guy
Ok, so I bragged about our daughter last time. It's time to brag about my husband now. This could take awhile. What can I say, I picked the best guy out there. Life is not always perfect at our house(far from it). But we are so in love.
Scott can be really romantic when he puts his mind to do it. He once rented a limo for me (for Valentines Day and my birthday since they are so close) and we dressed up fancy and everything. We just drove around and then ate at D.Q.
Scott is awesome at making supper when I'm not up to doing so (or I'm busy). He's a pretty good cook, and grilling seems to make him feel more "manly".
He does his own laundry. Ok, I help him out occasionally. He says he does it so that I can focus on what I would like to get done. It really does help, and I appreciate it. He even helps me with mine sometimes.
Scott does the dishes (ok, we have a dishwasher, so it's not that hard). He will load or unload it over his lunch hour just to help me out. What a guy!
Scott puts aside his own agenda to help me with my music. He will give me vocal pointers or even sit through a voice lesson, just to help me out with concerts and stuff. I love him.
He's a fighter. He stayed strong and positive all through his cancer. There were times he broke down, but mostly he held on to God and found as much joy as he could through it all. And we grew more in love getting through those times than any other time. I know because of that we are inseperable. And the faith he has from it is amazing.
Which brings me to the last one I will say (or I'll just keep going). My husband is the best spiritual leader of our household. If you were to come over to our house before he leaves for work (and brings Martie to school) you will find him at our kitchen table with God. Very rarely does he miss out on having a devotion time with his Maker. And because of it, his faith grows even stronger everyday. Like I said in the title, what a great guy.
And now that you've met my family, you see why I choose to count my blessings. I have so many to count.
My husband and I are so much in love
Scott can be really romantic when he puts his mind to do it. He once rented a limo for me (for Valentines Day and my birthday since they are so close) and we dressed up fancy and everything. We just drove around and then ate at D.Q.
Scott is awesome at making supper when I'm not up to doing so (or I'm busy). He's a pretty good cook, and grilling seems to make him feel more "manly".
He does his own laundry. Ok, I help him out occasionally. He says he does it so that I can focus on what I would like to get done. It really does help, and I appreciate it. He even helps me with mine sometimes.
Scott does the dishes (ok, we have a dishwasher, so it's not that hard). He will load or unload it over his lunch hour just to help me out. What a guy!
Scott puts aside his own agenda to help me with my music. He will give me vocal pointers or even sit through a voice lesson, just to help me out with concerts and stuff. I love him.
He's a fighter. He stayed strong and positive all through his cancer. There were times he broke down, but mostly he held on to God and found as much joy as he could through it all. And we grew more in love getting through those times than any other time. I know because of that we are inseperable. And the faith he has from it is amazing.
Which brings me to the last one I will say (or I'll just keep going). My husband is the best spiritual leader of our household. If you were to come over to our house before he leaves for work (and brings Martie to school) you will find him at our kitchen table with God. Very rarely does he miss out on having a devotion time with his Maker. And because of it, his faith grows even stronger everyday. Like I said in the title, what a great guy.
And now that you've met my family, you see why I choose to count my blessings. I have so many to count.
My husband and I are so much in love
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
Bragging rights
I don't get to do this as often as I want, but I want to take the opportunity to brag on my daughter. I want to tell you what she means to me and how much of a blessing she is.
Like I said, we've only had Martie for a year and a half. It's been a climb, but all is going pretty good. We are so proud of her. I can't wait to see what God does in her life.
She is an awesome writer. And I'm not just saying that cause I'm biased. She writes stories and poems that share what's in her heart. She has an awesome imagination, so her stories are always fun to read.
She has a good voice. She is still young yet, but she can sing very well and sings with me sometimes. I think we are going to let her record a two song demo next winter when I make my sophmore album. (doesn't that sound impressive...lol)
She has a very compassionate heart. Underneath her tough exterior, I have a daughter that wants to put others first. She loves to help others, and gets a lot of joy out of showing love to others. God will use this to the fullest as she allows Him to.
There is so much more that I could say, but I'll finish by saying that she absolutely loves being "clingy" when she's around me. I can't get mad at her for that because I truly love that she wants to be around me.
Like I said, we've only had Martie for a year and a half. It's been a climb, but all is going pretty good. We are so proud of her. I can't wait to see what God does in her life.
She is an awesome writer. And I'm not just saying that cause I'm biased. She writes stories and poems that share what's in her heart. She has an awesome imagination, so her stories are always fun to read.
She has a good voice. She is still young yet, but she can sing very well and sings with me sometimes. I think we are going to let her record a two song demo next winter when I make my sophmore album. (doesn't that sound impressive...lol)
She has a very compassionate heart. Underneath her tough exterior, I have a daughter that wants to put others first. She loves to help others, and gets a lot of joy out of showing love to others. God will use this to the fullest as she allows Him to.
There is so much more that I could say, but I'll finish by saying that she absolutely loves being "clingy" when she's around me. I can't get mad at her for that because I truly love that she wants to be around me.
Who are we?
Who are the musical Soodsma's? We are a family of three who absolutely love music. We think life is full of music, and we use a lot of music to share our thoughts and feelings. I love to use song lyrics to show what is going on with me personally. It brings me joy and helps me get out of my depression.
I(Melissa) sing. My husband(Scott) plays the drums. He also helps me with my singing. Our daughter(Martaysha) sings with me on occasion and has stated recently she wants to learn the guitar.
Martie is our adopted daughter, and we've only had her for a year and a half. We are very quickly learning what it is like to be parents and how to raise a teenager. We are eventually going to be looking into adopting another one (hopefully younger than a teenager).
So sit back, and enjoy our life put to music.
I(Melissa) sing. My husband(Scott) plays the drums. He also helps me with my singing. Our daughter(Martaysha) sings with me on occasion and has stated recently she wants to learn the guitar.
Martie is our adopted daughter, and we've only had her for a year and a half. We are very quickly learning what it is like to be parents and how to raise a teenager. We are eventually going to be looking into adopting another one (hopefully younger than a teenager).
So sit back, and enjoy our life put to music.
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