Amy's Insight On Life

Today...

2011-10-12T22:13:00.001-04:00

What an amazing day! Dancing with Shani at work is so silly and fun. Who else can say that they get paid to act like a kid? So far working for the preschool has been a wonderful experience.

I went to lunch with my friend Lenore. She is soooo sweet. The last time I really talked to her for any length of time was running in the fun run last year together at the school. We had a great lunch and great conversation.

I went to Jennifer G's to get some crafting done. I had made 10 post-it note holders in which I wanted to finish. Although I wasn't there long, it was nice to hang out for a little. I also got a chance to spend the night with Kayla and Cindy. Kayla and I went shopping together to get her school clothes. Aparently she gives her mom a hard time so I decided to give it a try. It was a lot of fun!

My life is coming together and I am so excited that the store is doing so good. Wendi and my mom are going to try to have it open during the day to attract more customers. Today was a great day for Wendi at the store.

I do not think that I have ever been so relaxed in my life. I am completely allowing God and the angels to take care of me. I do not rush around...I do not feel anxious...I do not get angry easily or hardly ever....I feel a lot of peace. When I do get a little uptight about things, I can pray. And thankfully that helps me be able to let go of the situation. My friends and my family have all been so wonderful and supportive. I am having a blast with my new ventures.

What I am thankful for today:
Linda from the Healing Place
Sally teaching at the store again
my free workshop at Jenn's house
my family
my friends
my HIS page
Robin and her ever lasting light and love
my children
my pets
the angels
the new friends I have met through the store
peace
love
music
time
self-love
confidence
the feeling of not needing to compete with anyone or anything
Zumba
shopping with Kayla
PartyLite
my health
crystals
creativity
imagination
the pre-school
my church family
laughter
my life

It has been a long time...

2011-10-08T23:25:00.000-04:00

It is after 11pm and I am exhausted. However, I have been receiving signs that I am supposed to write. Yes...it has been well over a month since I have taken the time. There is just sooooo much I want to do. Meditation has become a part of my nightly routine, when that used to be my blogging time. Maybe if I can cut this short, I will still be awake enough to meditate. Let's hope.

A couple nights ago during meditation, I saw my very first angel. It was a small figure because it looked far away. It was surrounded with this amazing gold light. I felt this sense of calmness and warmth that surrounded my body. It was wonderful. I have been reading books, working with crystals, meditating and conversing with my friend who is a medium to start this new journey of my life. However, I was told that it will come as it is supposed too. I cannot rush the Universe. Again, I hear that word patience, knowing that this was the best year for me to pick it.

My angel visit was so exciting. Robin blessed me with one of the best gifts anyone could ever receive. God does bring in the people in your life that you need to grow. I cannot wait for my 3 people to receive their angels. Loving how this is being passed around to spread as much light and love to the world.

I am working on a new blog. It will be the blog I use strictly for my angel visits, signs from spirits, etc. I have decided to put it on hold until I have more time and more experience using my intuition. I can honestly say that I now know when I am using my free will rather than following my intuition. With the angels help, they continue to steer me in the right direction....even when I try to resist.

I am going to meditate now. I will try to write more since the signs are leading me here. I do enjoy every minute I get to express myself through writing. Now to fit it in...

What I am thankful for today:
the amazing day at the fundraiser today
Sally scheduling a class!
Being connected to 'yellow' people
A day of craftiness with Jennifer G tomorrow
crystals
my family
my pets
my friends
the sunshine
my Halloween treats....so excited to give those out!
the preschool
my intuition
angels
smiles
laughter
music
God
love
hope
faith
understanding
patience
time
creativity
sleep
my health
the health of my loved ones
happiness
my life

Time to Discover

2011-08-17T09:23:00.000-04:00

Wow, it has been two weeks since I have last blogged. That is so unlike me...LOL! Time has gotten away. I cannot believe the kids start school soon. In some ways I am excited and in others I am sad. Sad because it means summer is over and we all know how much I love this season. I am also sad because I really do enjoy the time with my kids. When they do go back to school I am hoping to work on my intuition. Yes, I know that sounds like an odd thing to do but I was told that this is a gift that I am supposed to be using. And, I honestly feel like that is true. Fear gets in the way for me. The fear of my instincts being incorrect, or people looking at me like I have no clue what I am talking about. This is where I think about how thankful I am that I have mentors and guides to help me along this new journey.The transition can be exhausting. I find myself praying for motivation and energy. It feels as thought the angels and guides are hard at work while I am asleep. I was told that this may happen. Instead of fighting it, I am going with it. Linda has reminded me that I am very protected by my departed loved ones. She feels them around me every time I am in her office. Linda has been such a blessing to me. Her gift is so special and I am so thankful that she shares it with me and my loved ones.

So, where do I go from here? Maybe a few books I should look into purchasing, maybe some Doreen Virtue cards, and yes, a lot more time to myself where it is quiet. I have to learn to listen and not be afraid in those moments. Last night while asking for guidance, clarity, direction and motivation, I could feel a tingling sensation from my neck all the way up my scalp. It didn't stop. This did not scare me. However, I swore I heard a whisper which was followed by, what I will say was like a heat flash throughout my body. The tingling stopped and I felt scared. Then I reminded myself that I was ok. I was not harmed. Maybe it was a process that my body was going through. I really thought that I would have problems sleeping after that, but I didn't. Whew!

Now that I was reassured that I have this gift, I want to start using it. I want to start trusting my signs, my guides, my intuition. I hear this journey can be a blast. So, why not! LOL! I am up for it.

What I am thankful for today:
my gift of being a gifted intuitive
my children
my family
my friends
my pets
Laughter
Robin
HIS facebook page
love
hope
faith
patience
compliments
my new Jeep ( I feel it coming!!)
coffee
the fans of my HIS page
my store
my teachers
classes
creativity
The Healing Place
education
mentors
books
money
inspiration
The Center
food (stomach just growled)
honesty
loyalty
God
the power of prayer
my life

Laughter, Signs, and A Little Bit More

2011-07-30T23:45:00.000-04:00

Laughter is really the best medicine. It enlightens your spirit, tightens your abs and makes you feel sooooo good. Tonight chatting with Robin 'the sillies' which is what we call it, definitely came out. This is nothing new. She reminds me of Jamie in so many ways. We seriously type the same thing at the same time and are left with mouths wide open when the words hit each others screens. At this point in our relationship, it isn't very surprising. There are two people up in heaven working very hard to hook us up and it is working.

While Robin is going through some financial struggles some of her fans are trying to help her promote her book. Today, I did a lot of research for her on how to market her book better. After sending her some links, I was at a loss. So I asked for some guidance from our angels and spirit guides. Low and behold on comes "Calling All Angels" by Train. I put my head back, lifted my eye brows and said, "Really?" When it was over the next song to come on was "Don't Stop Believin'" by Journey. I almost fell off my chair. Seriously? They were answering me ON THE SPOT! At the very same time, this was happening for Robin. I may not have had the answers but the angels and spirit guides were telling us to keep up the faith, keep believing. I am so blessed to be able to pin point these signs and know their meaning. Too many people let them pass by without any acknowledgement. Or they think they are coincidences. Sorry, I but I do not believe in coincidences. Thankfully Robin doesn't either. Nothing would make me happier than to see her succeed. She deserves it so much. We have agreed to be each others reminder that we are not alone in this and we have to keep motivated in times that may be tough.

I am feeling really good tonight, just as I do any night I chat with her before bed. Plus I had time to enjoy an hour long walk with Heather on the new trail this evening. I love having someone to walk with. The walk was beautiful. The stream, nature, the two deer, the baby kittens....it was wonderful.

I am missing Shawn tonight though. He is away again on a camping trip but will be home tomorrow. I am so thankful that he has had a chance to enjoy the outdoors which he loves so much. Today was a great day for fishing and kayaking. It was nice to hear that he actually caught some Bass today. First time he caught anything all summer.

What I am thankful for today:
my friends
Robin
Choose Happiness
my Daily Guidance from Your Angels Book
Shawn
my parents
my kids
love
my pets
laughter
my bed
my store
sleep
energy
working out
time
education
dreams
goals
my jobs
my store
Ghost Hunters
life
my neighbors
my Blessings order coming in
church
God
my health
the power of prayer
Shawn coming home tomorrow
the sunshine
swimming
The Center
our fundraiser coming up
money
hope
faith
serenity
patience

Let the Gratitude Flow.....

2011-07-25T00:01:00.000-04:00

Well today was amazing. And, I am so thankful for everything that happened. Messages were being sent to me with advice for my next adventures. I have seen so many signs, so many blessings and been told many times today to be prepared for a change.....a good change. While I part of me is a little nervous, of course not knowing what has me a little uneasy, the rest of me is ready to jump. I love the people who are on this positivity train with me. And, the fact that these inspirational people are reaching out to me and giving me insights and information that they are receiving from spiritual sources has me overwhelmed with emotions.

Yesterday was just as amazing in a total different way. The Christmas Card Classes at the store were so awesome. After, we had a party for my sister-in-law in celebration of her achievement with Stampin Up! I actually got teary eyed! YIKES! It was a great time.

What I was thinking about today was how we all have lessons to learn. And it takes us how ever long it takes to learn them. I realize that the reason I can give so much to others without expecting much in return is because I am fulfilled within. I have found that inner peace. There is no feeling of 'lacking' anything. Tonight I pray for those who are still seeking that fulfillment. May they ask for guidance from their angels and spirit guides. I know first hand that they help you find your way. And, they bring the right people in and take the wrong people out at just the right time.

I am eternally grateful for Robin. Her inspiration has shown me that you can get through any situation and choose happiness. I am grateful for all of my friends and family who are enjoying this journey with me. Tonight I thank my spirit guides and angels. Especially AA Raziel for showing me he is trying to get my attention so that he can guide me to where I need to be. I thank Linda from the Healing Place for sharing her amazing gift with me. Oh, and before I forget....I will be blessed by Robin on August 11th in which will be one of the greatest gifts I could ever receive. I am so thankful that she has chosen me to share it with. Makenna has been my sunshine and brightening up my days with her love and her cute expressions. I am so grateful for her. Gavin was belly laughing so hard tonight that he made Makenna spit her water out of her nose. I am so thankful for that moment of sheer laughter between the two of them. My mom is always there for me in which I am so blessed. Jamie has shown me the true meaning of forever friendship which makes me thankful everyday. Erika, Diane, Jennifer, Heather, Rachel, all have so many things that I love about them. I am blessed to have as many wonderful people in my life as I do.

Can I just express how thankful I am for all the followers on Happy Inspirational Scrappin? WOW! I cannot get through my day without checking in with all those wonderful people. It just shows me that there are many positive, inspirational people still in the world. The connection we have amazes me! I am so happy that God lead me to creating a page like that. Everyone is so appreciative and filled with love. I am heading to bed now. Love and blessings to all!

Figured it Out

2011-07-23T01:19:00.000-04:00

Hello! It has been a few days, maybe over a week, I forget. Lots of stuff going on. I worked all three of my jobs today and thought I would be sound asleep by now. It is almost 1am. Excitement just fills the air for me right now. I am so proud of my friend Robin for publishing her own book. One day I will do that. Right now I just do not have the time.

My store is so awesome. Erika and I love our pool-side meetings. The kids do too! Tonight was our very first exclusive crop. It was a hit. Hopefully this will be a great way to bring in more income to the store. I could not get over how much these ladies were so thankful to have a night out without kids. They were all very nice and very funny.

After all this time I think I finally figured out what goes on with people when it comes to negative things happening to them. I remember a time when my neck would freeze and be that way for like 2 weeks. I remember having bouts of tonsillitis. I remember visiting a chiropractor and massage therapist regularly because my back hurt soooo bad. How many times did I land in a depression? How many headaches did I have to deal with? Everyone's body has weaknesses. Stress is the trigger. My father used to 'throw his back out'. Or end up with major head colds. If I look back at the timing of when that happened, it was during stressful times. Stress does take a toll on our bodies. No matter how many massages I got or how many times I went to the chiropractor, my back still hurt. No matter how much medication I took for depression, I would either plateau or only stay 'happy' for a short time. It is a huge cycle in which WE have to break. Honestly, if it wasn't for the power of positive thinking AND Linda from The Healing Place, I am not sure I would have stayed this good for this long. If you have reoccurring issues with your health, take a look at what is going on around you at the time. If we can think 'perfect health' we will have perfect health. If you constantly say, "I always get headaches", you will always get headaches. Try to find a positive outlet for your stress. As soon as you think a negative thought, get rid of it. Do not stay in the realm of sadness, hatred, anger, fear or disappointment for too long. We do have to feel our feelings but then let them go. Thankfully my patterns of sore muscles, headaches, depression, and sicknesses have all been broken. This doesn't mean that I do not encounter stress. It just means that I have finally learned how to deal with it.

What I am thankful for tonight:
Diane
Jenn
Jamie
Jennifer
Erika
new customers at the store
everlasting friendships
Choose Happiness
Robin and her new book
my pets
my children
my family
Shawn
time
creativity
The Center
Christine
sleep
energy
music
funny movies
laughter
Sandi
the sunshine
air conditioning
full classes at the store tomorrow
my health
Indra
love
happiness
smiles
compliments
knowing that I have a bright future in store for me
the gym
Heather
Matt
my Blessings order which should be here soon!
inspiration
hope
faith
God

Lots of Things to Be Thankful For

2011-07-18T23:31:00.000-04:00

It is late and my eyes hurt and my stomach is growling. Whatever happened to me eating at normal hours...I am not sure. I refuse to eat the vanilla wafer cookies that are sitting next to my bed knowing that I did not do cardio today. Actually at the gym, my stomach was bugging me. So I did weights instead.

Instead of sleeping, which would probably be a good thing right now, I am blogging. I just chatted with my sister-in-law on facebook for awhile to the point of giddiness which started hours ago with me. Honestly there is just too much to write this late. So I will sum it up as best as I can. My life is wonderful. And I am given affirmations every day, sometimes more than once that I am exactly where I am supposed to be.

I was shown a white dove the other day. I cannot say that I have ever seen one the way I did this time. It was just sitting on a fence on the side of the highway. And what is weird was this urge I had to look to the right and there it was. I knew it was shown to me for a reason but I didn't know why. I am still not 100% sure, but I do know the answer is coming. A friend on facebook deals with signs and numbers and their meanings. So I asked her what she thought. Suddenly all this stuff started coming to her. She said the dove obviously represents peace. But she felt it ran deeper than that for me. She said she felt that I was being shown a new spiritual guide. She feels as though it is a male. Then she proceeded to say that I am aware of the signs I am shown from the spirtual world....which totally threw me off because I have never discussed this with her. She also mentioned that I have and will continue to see signs and be aware of them. My mouth dropped since Mimi has been showing me her sign at least once a day! Whatever the meaning is, I am excited. If it means more signs from my two Pop-Pop's, Mimi, and all the others dear to my heart that have crossed over, then I am all for it! I also now know that I have a guide that is specifically helping to guide me to where I need to be.

That is only one of my many wonderful things I have to be thankful for. I am leaving it at that for tonight. I have got to get to bed if I want to function at all tomorrow. One word of advice, open your mind and your heart will experience things you never thought possible.

What I am thankful for today:
my store
my new customers
my first exclusive crop this Friday!
my children
my pets
my family
sleep
energy
HIS Facebook page
Robin
my wonderful friends
time
hope
faith
rainbows
signs
love
laughter
Shawn
my bed
being off tomorrow
goals and dreams
my health
inspirational quotes
Zumba
smiles
The Center
a working jeep
The Healing Place
Indra
creativity
summer
swimming
the beach

A wonderful night helping someone I love

2011-07-10T22:39:00.000-04:00

Unexplainable but wonderful things have been happening to me in the last two years. Not sure where it all came from or why but I am coming to terms with it and learning how to use my gift to help others. Tonight I helped a friend that I have never met. There are ways that spirits connect us to each other and there are reasons. I will not go into detail for the comfort of her sake. It is something that she would like to keep to herself. However, I cannot help but to feel so blessed and thankful for what I was able to do for her.

Our loved ones who have passed do not want us to continue to mourn the loss of them. They are in a better place and want us to be happy. Of course we all have moments of sadness and loneliness without them. But if we can take most of our days and celebrate their life instead of mourning their death, we will be so much better off. I know what it is like to lose people that we are so attached to. I felt like I lost my best friend when my grandmother died. I remember her saying to us when she was in her last few days, "Please do not cry for me, I will be fine." Being a 26 year old who always told myself as a child that she would never leave me, I thought, "I am not going be fine! What about me?!" Yes, the selfish side really came out. I wanted a miracle. And, it didn't come. I was angry at everyone and everything, including God. How could He take her away from me? Didn't He know how much I needed her? Why couldn't He make her better.

Being older and more educated I realize that when our time is up, it is up. If a miracle were to happen then it would have. But it was not written in the stars for her. She had been called Home because it was her time. And now I know that she is always with me even though I cannot see her. She hasn't ever left me. I find comfort in that. I also know that she will be waiting for me when it is my turn to go Home. I see most of my signs from her. And, I am so grateful that she comes through for me like that. It just shows me that she is as attached to me as I am to her. There is no doubt that she experiences all my exciting events and is with me when I am upset or feel alone. Being so open and aware of what is going on around me spiritually, I am reaffirmed constantly. I am where I should be. And, I am able to be more patient, more kind, and have more faith in where I am going.

What I am thankful for today:
my gift which I am working on getting better at
God
my friends
my family
inspiration
love
creativity
hope
faith
Shawn
music
sleep
my health
a great day tomorrow
meeting new people
a great meeting at the store today!
Vintage weekend at my store in the fall
Crafting for Paws!!
summer
sunshine
inspirational facebook pages
my pets
smiles
compliments
dancing
Zumba

Waka Waka

2011-07-09T22:06:00.000-04:00

Jennifer and I have been doing Zumba to this song since we started taking Zumba classes. I never really listened to the words because I was too busy trying to not mess up the steps maybe? To my surprise Jennifer put it on my MP3 player and while I was vacuuming the synagogue yesterday I almost broke out is Zumba moves. Thankfully I was there alone. LOL! I started laughing and wondering what does this song even say? Well I looked it up today and here it is:

Waka Waka by Shakira

You're a good soldier

Choosing your battles
Pick yourself up
And dust yourself off
And back in the saddle

You're on the frontline
Everyone's watching
You know it's serious
We're getting closer
This isnt over

The pressure is on
You feel it
But you've got it all
Believe it
When you fall get up
Oh oh...
And if you fall get up
Oh oh...
Tsamina mina
Zangalewa
Cuz this is Africa
Tsamina mina eh eh
Waka Waka eh eh
Tsamina mina zangalewa
Anawa aa
This time for Africa
Listen to your god
This is our motto
Your time to shine
Dont wait in line
Y vamos por Todo

People are raising
Their Expectations
Go on and feed them
This is your moment
No hesitations

Today's your day
I feel it
You paved the way
Believe it
If you get down
Get up Oh oh...
When you get down
Get up eh eh...

Tsamina mina zangalewa
Anawa aa
This time for Africa
Tsamina mina eh eh
Waka Waka eh eh
Tsamina mina zangalewa
Anawa aa
Tsamina mina eh eh
Waka Waka eh eh
Tsamina mina zangalewa
This time for Africa

I love the words! And, it makes me want to dance. LOL! Here is the link to the song: Waka Waka by Shakira

I love that it says "If you get down, get up!" In the past I had a hard time getting back up and would stay down for way too long. Life is too short. I have no time to lay around and stay in bed anymore. Each moment is precious and I plan on making the best of each one!

What I am thankful for today:
everything

Awesome Week

2011-07-08T23:26:00.000-04:00

What an awesome week it has been. Happy Inspirational Scrappin is booming with new inspirational souls every day. I love waking up to seeing the new followers, comments and likes on the page. I now know what direction I was meant to take with the HIS Challenge and I am loving every minute of it.

I had a great weekend with my family. The 4th of July picnic was a lot of fun. I got to catch up with my cousin Tanya who is popping out with her basket ball of a baby boy at 6 months into her pregnancy. We worked on our tans together while the kids laughed and swam ALL DAY. The fireworks were great as usual and so was the cute family of frogs that have made my parents pool their home.

Erika and I had two meetings for the store poolside. Love that we can work and play at the same time. Honestly it doesn't feel like work at all. Makenna swam all the way around my parents pool without any floaties on and without holding onto the wall. So proud of her! The fundraiser is coming together really well and lots of people are donating and baking. YAY!

For my inspiration for today I was amazed by the things people are saying about me, not only to my face but behind my back! Matt (the new assistant at the gym) had a crazy day at work yesterday and was really not looking forward to being at the gym today. However, as he was describing his day yesterday, all I could do was laugh, he said, "I knew that I was coming in today and working with you so I was really happy about that." I couldn't believe it! How nice is he? Then he proceeded to say that this other guy Matt and him were talking about this major negative person who just quit. They were saying that they didn't need her negativity there and were discussing others that may need to find their way out as well. Well, Matt S. said to Matt P "You know who I like? Amy. She is always happy and smiling." I think I actually blushed as Matt P was telling me this. I was really happy to know that my positivity is actually making everyone happy. Some may find it annoying and it is only because they are not in the same place as me. That is ok. Members comment on my smiles...and you must know that I never wear make-up and always have my hair up when I am there. It is nice to know that they like me for me and my personality. They still call me the sunshine of the gym. I am so blessed to feel like I am finally content with who I am. It is nice to see that everyone notices and appreicates my happiness. It is contaigous. And, people actually are looking to me to brighten their day. Brent is another one who feeds off of me. Honestly, when I look at him I see me as a male. Except that he is more open about dancing and being silly in public than I am. I used to be that way.....now how do I get that back? Maybe I need to spend more time with him. He is a light for me. I love going into work when he is there.

So you can choose your mood.

And here is my happiness formula.....Are you Happy?

My thankful list for today:

the wonderful people at the gym

my friends

my family

my children

seeing Cars2 tonight with my family

pool time

holidays

Robin

my health

sleep

creativity

my class tomorrow morning

Jennifer allowing me to borrow Zumba on Kinect....love it!

quality time

Haunted Collector (awesome show!)

Shawn

laughter

hope

love

sunshine

my bed

milk and oreos

The Center

Linda for putting me in my Happy Place

HIS Challenge/Blog/facebook page

Scrapbooking!!

energy

inspiration

confidence

JOY

kayaking

my life

lots of stuff

2011-07-02T07:56:00.000-04:00

It has been a week since I have blogged and I wish it could be that I haven't had time due to margaritas and hot tubbing but it is far from that. Vacation Bible School took up every night I had this past week. And, my days were spent working two jobs, taking care of kids, working on the store's fundraiser, taking care of Toby and completely the cat board at the shelter for July. The cat board looks great! Christine had to finish it up for me since I could not stay. But...all of our favorites are now up! We decided it would be nice to get the staff and volunteer favorites noticed this time around. Here is what we came up with:

In checking out some of the inspirational pages on facebook this morning, been awake since 5:30am....I found this:

I realized that while I want to find inspiration, I do not take any time to myself to find it. The one night I spent in the hot tub, I did find inspiration in the clear skies and peacefullness of being alone. In that 15 minutes I got to thinking about how much I want to help others become more motivate to work towards their goals and dreams. My fear of life coaching was more or less the fact that I am still trying to piece my life together so how am I am supposed to help others? I reflected back on my conversation with the life coach a couple weeks ago. I did bring up this concern to her and she did say that we learn and grow as we are training. Now, I just have to make the time to research this so that I can make it happen.

I went onto Robin's page this morning and find this: "Don't feed your fears. If you want to feed something then feed your purpose. Feed your passion. Feed your creativity. Feed your inspiration. Feed your hopes. Feed your Soul. But please, please don't feed the fears. It won't take them but a minute to devour all of the goodness in your Life. Sorry fear, I got nothin' for you today. Or tomorrow..." She wrote that as if it was for me. I have always let the fears of situations get the best of me. So now I have to get rid of my fears, make time, and pursue my dreams. Right? Let's go!

What I am thankful for today:

Toby one of the best dogs I have ever had the pleasure to spend time with.

my friends

my family

time

sleep

my store

The Center

Crafting for Paws

my children

sunshine

rain

music

energy

the gym

inspiration

motivation

the power of prayer

God

VBS

craftiness

money

a good walk with Toby today

love

creativity

simplicity

my health

laughter

family picnics

my good life

A Great Day!

2011-06-26T00:06:00.000-04:00

Happy 40th Wedding Anniversary Mom and Dad! Brian, Jenn, She-She and I had a great time planning your party for today. Christine did an amazing job on the cake. My dad got a little misty eyed when he saw that their wedding picture was on the top. It was awesome to spend the day with family and friends. We laughed, ate, and had great conversations. A huge thank you to everyone who came!

Pappy (father-of-the-bride), She-She (Jr. Brides Maid), Cheryl (maid-of-honor), Bride & Groom, Usher Gary, and Usher Barry.

After this picture my sister-in-law and I were cracking up. My brother looks like he is making a Chandler face. I am sure those of you who have ever watched FRIENDS will completely understand. He was actually very good at it...LOL!
Right now I am house sitting for friends of mine. Their dog Toby cannot be left alone for a long period of time or he will destroy the house. Cages do not work either since he managed to break out of two different metal cages. Makenna was going to spend the night with me but she had trouble sleeping here so I took her home. A night to myself? What the heck is that? Granted I am laying here with a 65 pound dog who just got done shaking from the unexpected, unappreciated fireworks that just ended at 11:15pm.....so I am in no way alone. LOL! What I am thinking is how the heck Jessi and Cindy sleep with this dog in their bed. There is honestly no more room with just the two of us....LOL! Did I mention that I got on their scale and I lost 7 in the last two weeks. WHOOO HOOOOO! This week I worked out 6 days!! I am on FIRE! Only 11 pounds from my goal weight!!

Jessi and Cindy have a hot tub. Of course I took advantage of that tonight. The only thing missing was the wine but I am over it. I just kept looking at the sky thinking about how great my life is. The tree next to their house was covered with blinking fireflies. I had my very own light show. No shooting stars tonight, but there is always tomorrow. Today was a very good day. My mom was so happy about their party that she was in tears. Everyone was so glad to be there. My parents are my best role models. Growing up, they fought, they hugged, they slammed doors, they actually made out in front of my brother and I....YUCK! Through it all, it taught me that even though we have struggles and we may get angry with people, each day is a new day and it is not worth dwelling in the negativity. They always made up and remained strong in their faith in God which I believe is what has kept them together all these years. They may not share a lot of the same passions in life, but they do have their commitment to God. And, they do support each others differences. Knowing that everything happens for a reason, I would not change a thing about the way they raised me.

As far as my life coaching, which I am sad to say has not been looked into at all recently, I tried it out on someone today. There was very sad girl, probably in her early 20's in the bathroom at the park today. I could not help but to want to hug her. She was sobbing. I decided to ask her if there was anything I could get her. She replied with, "A new boyfriend." Apparently hers decided to take the high road and break up with her via text message while she was at her brothers graduation party. Sense the sarcasm. All I could say to her was, " Remember that everything happens for a reason. And, when you find the right one, all this will be worth it." She actually smiled. Not sure where the words came from but I am so glad I was able to cheer her up even if it was only for a brief moment. What her boyfriend did was very low, pond scum low. However, there is a lesson to be learned for her. Hopefully it is that she is much better than he is and she deserves to be respected. I know that Life Coaching is for me. It is something I want to do...now just to find the time. Hmmmmmmm.....

What I am thankful for today:
Christine for her amazing cake and her friendship
my parents
The Center
having everything started for Crafting for Paws
my kids
my pets....missing Zoe tonight who always sleeps with me ) :
my family
my friends
Time alone (not sure if I will sleep tonight!)
VBS starting tomorrow...hopefully I have everything done....LOL!
feeling relaxed and happy
the power of prayer
a good run this morning
running 5 miles in 35 minutes yesterday!
summer
the sunshine
Choose Happiness
all the new followers of HIS facebook page
my store
money
laughter
remincing about the past
air conditioning
a beautiful day today for my parents party
knowing Shawn got to his camp site safely
the gym
Heather for watching Makenna on Friday
the 5-midnight crop this past Friday...so much fun!
Alice
painted toes
smiles
music
energy
faith
loyalty
God
love
patience

Today...

2011-06-21T23:10:00.000-04:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yPvgg_6hGOU&feature=share

I felt the need to share this amazing youtube video that was posted on Choose Happiness's wall today. It was the most perfect thing for me to read. There are many angels in my life that go hand in hand as to what is stated in this video. If it wasn't for my friends, I may not be able to get on track on my 'off days'. Same thing goes for Robin and all of the inspirational pages that I have come across since January. Erika brought up the fact that in January we only had 99 followers on the Happy Inspirational Scrappin faacebook page. Now we are up to 336 getting about 3 new followers a day. YAY! We must be doing something right! My other angels include my children, my family, my fur-angels, and certainly Shawn. God brings about these wonderful blessings to help us on our journey. Please read the amazing words of the video. You will be blown away.

So my weekend flew by. Kempton was so much fun with my family. My dad and my brother both raced. Dad came in 2nd, twice. Brian came in 2nd once then 1st. It takes me back to my childhood remembering sitting there watching my dad race as I was playing trucks in the mud. I still get those butterflies in my stomach when he is at the starting line. I know he is so happy that we are all there to cheer him on and watch him engage in something that he absolutely loves.

Father's Day was really good with the exception of having to say good-bye to someone I love. A friend of mine is moving away and we had a party for her in the morning. We both cried although we know that God has great things in store for her and we will keep in touch. Makenna and I took Jeremy to Red Lobster for what was supposed to be breakfast but he wanted a meal for brunch. So that is what he got. 5 hours later my entire family arrived for a steak dinner. My Aunt, mom and I cooked for the men. It turned out really yummy! Honestly I was still full from brunch but I ate anyway. I took a long walk after dinner...too full to run. My moms Strawberry Shortcake was to die for!

I started my new work schedule at both the gym and Brith Sholom. The kids being off from school is very different. I had 5 of them at my house today since I was not working. I completely cleaned my bedroom. Moved furniture, vacuumed behind it, cleaned out my closet and drawers, and did a lot of laundry. It was nice to hear the kids laughing and having fun today. I woke up feeling very crappy. My mood has definitely changed thanks to laughter, Erika, and all the positive people I have met on facebook. They were all right on track with their postings today and what I needed to hear. Robin and my dream is to be motivational speakers together someday. There is this major feeling inside that just knows it will happen. We all have bad days. It is how we deal with them that matters. It was nice to know that Robin shares her bad days with us and doesn't pretend that things are always glorious when they aren't.

What I am thankful for today:
the new followers of HIS on Facebook
the motivational pages on Facebook that keep me in check
Erika
Jamie
Jennifer G
Diane
Heather P and Heather R
Robin
Linda...cannot wait for my appointment on Tuesday!!
Brent
Shawn
Jeremy
my family
friends
my pets
my children
laughter
inspiration
energy
quality time with those I love
positivity
creativity
facebook
Christine
my parents 40th anniversary party on Saturday
a clean bedroom
love
patience
understanding
kindness
selflessness
honesty
loyalty
faith
hope
rainbows
Pastor Tricia
VBS starting on Sunday!!
my store
my life

Quality Time and more...

2011-06-16T23:51:00.000-04:00

So the last time I blogged I was indeed a little negative. But I am over it. Nothing a chat with the besties and a reality check can't fix! Why do I let people get under my skin? Oh well, it is over. I had a great today with the kids. Today I wanted it to be all about them. Makenna and I enjoyed the morning at Desales and saw Sleeping Beauty with Jaymen and his grandmother. The play was adorable! After, we spent some time on Denise's farm. Jaymen was showing us all the animals. Homer the goose seems to be Denise's guard goose. He is always making sure everyone knows he is around.

Denise has invited us to her farm for feeding time where we can help feed the goats, the sheep and the chickens! Makenna is so excited!

When we got home I took the kids shopping for Father's Day gifts. We also took Diego over to Cindy and Jesse's for a playdate with their dog Toby. I will be spending a week with Toby while his family is away. I took the kids, Kayla included, to the shelter. We got to spend time with lots of new kittens. Alice sat on my lap, finally. It has been a long time. She was back to her old self smacking every cat that came within paws reach. I love that cat. We found out that the cat that is in love with Bryce is named Kutta. She is a female black/white tiger. I had her on her back tonight purring like crazy.

To end my night with the kids, Gavin and I played a board game, twice once Makenna was in bed. It was a really good day. I would have liked to have spent some time with Shawn but there is always tomorrow night.

My thing for today was to try the Teriyaki Sweet Onion Chicken at Subway. It was sooo yummy. I first heard of it on The Biggest Loser. I will definitely have that again. My 'thing for a day' is working out really well. I am trying new things and keeping an open mind. When I am feeling angry, I try to change it right away. It isn't always easy but I feel so much better when I concentrate on what makes me happy. Focus on the good. I am so blessed. I have great friends, a wonderful family, my health, my dream job, amazing kids, great pets and the most amazing boyfriend in the world. I am going to bed tonight being thankful for the quality time I had with my kids today, the quality time I had with Shawn on Tuesday, knowing that I am right where I am supposed to be every single moment, and loving where I am headed.

Warning....negative alert, into positive ending.

2011-06-15T00:05:00.001-04:00

I really do not want to be negative after such a positive day but if I do not express my feelings, I will not be able to get back into the positive as quickly. All my life I have had at least one person who either tried to be like me or really thought they were. While some may look at this as a "Wow, she really likes who I am and wants to be like me" situation, I find it rather annoying. I look at is as, "Seriously? Get your own life." I want to be me, different than everyone else. Why would I want to constantly try to be what I am not? Or who I am not? Maybe there is a lesson for me to learn through all of this, not sure what it would be. Maybe it is the fact that my word for the year is patience and I have yet to master it fully? I get extremely annoyed when I see someone do something soon after I do. Like the idea would have NEVER entered their head until they saw me do it. So, how can I think of this in a positive manner.....

People like that are in a serious need of a reality check. It seems as though their self-esteem is still not where they say it is. I do not care how positive someone may come off on a posting, an email, a text or a blog. If they continue to follow someone else, they still are deeply insecure. So, as I say, "Get over it!" I mean that not only for the insecure SWF that continues to act as I do, but for myself. I will get over it and hopefully someday (sooner than later), she will too. If a person like that wants to act like me and do as I do then they really should start being strong enough to live their own life. God knows the only person I follow is Him. I pray that He will help me to move on from this and be able to say, "Wow, that person really likes who I am" and be happy that they do everything I do. LOL! Right now I do not like it one bit. I am proof that even the most positive people can be unhappy about situations at times. I may not be dealing with this well now but tomorrow is another day.

On a positive note, my day today was incredible. I ran with Diego for 3 miles then kayaked with my baby for 2 1/2 down Lake Nocamixon. The weather was amazing. For those who may not know, a year ago I dealt with a huge fear of being in water that I could not see the bottom of. Because of Shawn, his confidence in me and his patience with me, I have fully overcome that fear. I am so glad Shawn ended up having the day off. He was so excited to be able to see me in the daylight today. It is as funny as it sounds but we never see each other when the sun is up.

We are going to start running together on the new trail. He has been admiring the physical shape I am in and has asked me to help him get in better shape too. He was so sweet in saying that I inspire him to be a better person. He feeds off my motivation (instead of sucking it dry like some people). We both feel that we are each others equal. This is the first time I have ever felt that with any man. I feel it with my friends though. Never do I allow anyone to make me feel less than they are or less than I feel about myself. I thank God every day for my confidence and the power to be me and different than everyone else. So thankful I have found a network of friends, co-workers, and my man, who all love me just the way I am. We are all growing, learning life's lessons. Find what makes you happy and go with it. When something ticks you off, get over it! Sing that song, "La La La whatever...La La La doesn't mater". Be yourself.

What I am thankful for today:
the power to change your mood
my friends and family
the amazing hugs, kisses and I love you's that I received today from my niece and nephew
kayaking
the beautiful day today!
quality time with Shawn
capitalization (especially the letter I) LOL!!!!!!!!!!!!
energy
the views today on the water
Sleeping Beauty on Thurs. with Makenna and Jaymen
Kempton Fair this weekend...GOOD LUCK DAD!
having the family over for dinner on Father's Day
blooming flowers
the rain
my kids
Cheryl
Diane (thank you for allowing me to use your computer!)
random acts of kindness
sleep
my jobs
laughter
hope
faith
blessings
true love
the amazing rainbow that Shawn called to tell me about tonight. He knows me well!

My "Big" New Thing for Today

2011-06-11T23:59:00.000-04:00

Honestly I had no intentions of going to my 20th class reunion. Mostly because I have made peace with my high school bully and I really wanted to take the night to chill with my kids. This past week was soooo super busy for me with work. My friend Chris, Andrea and Sue were bugging me....mostly Sue.....to come. Andrea was home from Hawaii with her husband Dave and Chris really wanted to see me and Shawn. After talking with Shawn, we decided that we should go. My "big" thing today was going somewhere that I really didn't want too. However, being greeted with tons of hugs from people I seriously have not seen for 20 years was so awesome.

Steve told me that his mom found a shoe box full of notes that apparently him and I wrote back and forth during P.O.D., the most boring class in the world. I cannot believe he saved them all. Then Ken told me that the other day he found a box of letters that I wrote to him while he was away in college. He said that when he would receive one of my letters it was like Christmas. I miss those days. Ken and I were really close. I am glad I could make him so happy during his time away from home.

Jenna, Me and Steve

Chris looks exactly the same, just as most of us do. Jodi is coming home in July and we are getting together. Jenna is pregnant with twins!! Her and I reminisced about the crazy things her sister did to me. Jenna would do anything to get Kristen in trouble. Steve is the same silly man that I once sat behind and slept through class. LOL!

Jenna, Me, Steve and Jodi (she put her hair high like old times...LOL!)

Andrea and I, we were best buds forever. She reminded me of a time where she would come over and ride go-carts with me at my parents house. In a lighting storm she was panicking because she could not get the go-cart up the hill fast enough. She said she loved being at my house. It was sooooooo awesome to see her and Dave. And then there is Sue. She and I got along really well in school too. Although she was quiet and kept to herself, she was always so nice to me. And, she is no longer quiet nor does she keep to herself. LOL!

Andrea, Me & Sue

There will be a better picture to follow since Ken was there with all of his gear. Shawn took this one which is a little blurry since he was far away. This human pyramid was Andrea's idea.

Me (on top of Trey), Dave, Marybeth, Andrea K, Kim, Stacy, Chris M., Melissa, Sue, Kelly, Glennie, Chris, Andrea, Todd, Emily, John

I felt so comfortable knowing that each person there was so thankful I came. I was not sure the response I would get. There is a lot I do not remember about high school because I was so stressed out. Everyone I talked too reminded me of awesome memories. Peggy had a great one in which I will not talk about since it was personal girly stuff. It was just amazing to know that we were all going through things very similar just dealing with them very differently. I will definitely go to my next reunion. And, I will be keeping in touch with everyone I have missed these past 20 years.

Me & Shawn

What I am thankful for today:

Seeing friends I have not seen in a long time

laughter

memories

my kids

sleep

Shawn

hope

my 'thing for a day'

patience

quality time

my pets

coffee

the farmer's market tomorrow

seeing Sally today!!

winning as one of the Mystery Hostesses

compliments (got lots today!)

realizing the lessons I had to learn were worth everything I had to go through

Sue for bugging me to go to the reunion

happiness

Makenna making me smile

my friends (old, new and rediscovered)

music

energy

losing another pound

my new job

grateful people

kindness

chocolate

relaxation

love

Amazing Week

2011-06-07T23:07:00.000-04:00

We are almost in the middle of what is an amazing week so far. Started my new job on Monday and it is as easy as putting on my shoes....LOL! The people there are so nice. They do have me high up on a pedestal though thanks to Ernie. He raved about me so much that I feel like I have to work even harder to prove him right. Ernie may be what he calls a grumpy old man, but he does have a good heart. And, I can make him smile. For 71 years old, he is in awesome shape. I never guessed he was that old. Ernie's mission for me was to make me some money. When I asked him why he said it was because he felt I deserved it. Awww... Even Jeremy said that it is nice that people recognize how hard I work.

After the gym today I went to Old Navy and bought my bikini. All of their bathing suits are $10 so I ended up with 2. One is a dark purple one piece with a halter neckline. The bikini is aqua blue with purple, white, pink and other colors. I love them! Love that they were so cheap!!

I had a nice conversation with a couple girls on Robin's facebook page. It makes us feel so much better to know that we have all gone through the same things at some point in our lives. I feel whole now. I know I am exactly where I am supposed to be. Every day something happens where I get affirmation. At times when I may have just let go in the past, I am able to be patient and hold on. God plays a huge role in that. He is the higher power that helps me stay strong when I feel I am at my weakest point. I love the people I am surrounded by each and every day. I love the new people I meet whether it is on facebook or personally. I have two parties coming up, Blessings Unlimited in July and Dove Chocolate in September. The ladies that Erika and I met this past Saturday were so awesome. I am excited to spend more time with each of them.

Zumba is tomorrow...cannot wait! They are having it twice this week. I am so excited. It is honestly one of my favorite things. Well, next to spending time on the Elliptical with Brent. Man does he make the time fly! LOL! I do enjoy my walks with Heather too when it isn't boiling hot outside. Right after Zumba, Makenna and I are heading to Erika's for our poolside meeting, weather permitting. Her and I are attending the Farmer's Market this Sunday.

Sue Ackerman-Martin has been messaging me all day today. She is bugging and bugging for Shawn and I to attend our 20th reunion this weekend. I really wasn't going to go. But...I feel really good about myself and Shawn actually showed a slight interest in going so we will see. I chat with all of them on facebook anyway, it would be nice to see them in person. And my friend Andrea is here from Hawaii so it would be really nice to see her too!!

Well, I am calling it a night. I will continue to be excited about the rest of the week. I had a great night tonight with my sister-in-law working on invitations for my and dad's 40th wedding anniversary party. Love the new stuff Stampin Up! came out with in the latest catalog!! Plus family bonding is always a plus. May this posting find you happy and healthy! God Bless!

The Butterfly & Doing what makes YOU happy!

2011-06-03T23:20:00.000-04:00

Today I had my first conversation with a life coach. Let me tell you.....I LOVED HER! She is from Bethlehem and was by far the most free spirited, positive person I have ever met in my life. Thankfully she so willingly gave me the contact info to get me started on my path. There are two things that she taught me today that I wanted to share on my blog. Honestly it was as if God was speaking to me through her. The first thing is..... she touched on one of the hardest parts of being a life coach. Because we love people and want them to succeed, it will be tough for us to not get in the way with our own opinions because of our own life experiences. We will want to help so much when we need to learn when to step back. Watching is the hardest part but sometimes we know it is the right thing to do in order for the other person to learn their lesson. Here is the story she shared with me.

A man saw a cocoon and noticed that it was moving. He knew that it would only be a matter of time before the butterfly was going to be completely developed. Every day he walked past this cocoon and felt badly for the struggle this butterfly was enduring. He wanted to help it so badly. After a few days he noticed that the butterfly was flapping its wings so hard and so fast with one little piece of cocoon stuck to one of it's wings. He could not stand watching this poor creature struggle so much. He decided to pull off the last piece of cocoon and stood there watching as this butterfly was wobbling around trying to walk and fly. But, the butterfly could not fly. The way that butterflies build up their muscles is to manage to get themselves out of their cocoon. Because the man interfered, the butterflies wings did not fully build up their strength in order for it to fly.

Wow, that makes so much sense. And, it made me feel better when I think of dealing with my children. Although we hate to see them suffering, sometimes we have to step back and allow the struggle so that they learn their life lesson. If we keep interfering, the person will continue to have the same issues because we have always stepped in and took care of things.

The second one was the confidence to make decisions based on what makes us happy without worrying about the judgment of others. Some may think it is selfish. The life coach said that we have to be happy in order to make others happy. We cannot waste our energy and time worrying about what anyone else thinks. In my situation right now with Gavin, it is very hard to do that. While I think I am doing something right, others may not. The question is "Why should I care?" We allow others to inflict guilt inside of us, doubts, and second thoughts. If in our hearts we know we are not doing anything wrong, then there shouldn't be a problem. However, others would disagree. There is such thing as compromise. Unfortunately my 11 year old has not grasped that concept yet. So I am stuck making decisions based on what someone else thinks and wants and not with what makes me truly happy. To make myself feel better about this I just keep telling myself that this phase of his will be over soon. There is a lesson for us to learn in this situation and it has to run it's course. I have however, come a long long way to not caring what others think. I do not need approval from others like I used to. In the last few years I have grown to love myself. Where as when I was younger I needed to be loved and constantly reminded that I had approval from others. When I didn't get that I would be depressed and miserable.

Not sure when I will have the time to do the research to pursue this new goal but I am thankful that I have what I need to start. I have done lots of new things for my 'thing for a day' lately. It feels good to try new things. I am so grateful that this life coach gave me this wonderful advice today. It is something I will pass on to others that may have issues with control and confidence.

What I am thankful for today:
my new venture
my friends
Jennifer coming home
the vendor fair at the school tomorrow
my kids
Makennas verbage
The Center last night with Christine
lots of new awesome products at the store!!
spending time with Zachary today
a nice long walk with Heather yesterday
the boutique
Kempton Fair
time with Erika today
Diane sharing her cucumbers...hee hee hee!
Robin and her powerful positive energy
knowing that I accept myself for who I am, whether I get approval from others or not
butterflies
signs from Edna, Nana and Aunt Aida this past week
rainbows
HIS Blog
my wonderful inspiring friends and family
confidence
time
laughter
Heather R. (thank you for our long phone conversation the other day!!)
Ribbon Club!
new Stampin Up! stuff
3 kids camps at the store this summer
lilies
my new job on Monday
running a 6.44 minute mile on Wednesday
the sunshine
Crafting for Paws being in the works!
internet
facebook
fresh fruit
Erika's pool ( :
Jamie
money
hope
being the only independent scrapbooking store in the Lehigh Valley
life coaching!
prayer
my home
love

A WOW Day!

2011-06-01T21:41:00.000-04:00

Today was a WOW Day! Wow, what the power of positivity can do! Wow, I beat my court case against the mean cop and am getting my money back. Wow, I actually managed to find inexpensive clothes at the Boutique to wear to work out in. Wow, gas came down to $3.75 per gallon! Wow, my lilies are blooming! Wow, my kids are in a great mood. Wow, I feel great and lost 1 more pound! Wow, Gavin's doctor doesn't want to see him again until the fall! Wow, I have amazing friends....some far, some close, some I have never personally met. Wow, I start my third job on Monday!! Wow, I actually got to take my kids out to dinner for the first time by myself! Wow, the life coach in Bethlehem emailed me and wants to help me with my new venture....

Today was awesome. There is so much I could be ungrateful for but what is the use? It makes me feel bad to think about it and it doesn't change the situation. So, I am heading to bed still in awe from the day. First I am watching some new episodes of Ghost Hunters...WOW! NEW EPISODES! Another thing to be thankful for!! Good night world...I look forward to tomorrow.

Show me the Money!!

2011-05-28T20:01:00.000-04:00

Talk about God bringing into your life the people you need to achieve your dreams!!! Today a woman walked into the store who owns the counseling office down the street. Before she left I was compelled to ask her if she knew what I would need to do to become a Life Coach. Here, she has one of her own who she sees on a regular basis. She is getting me her name and number so that I can find out where she received her training. WHOOOO HOOOOO! So excited that this is coming together so much faster than I could have ever imagined! Once I start my new job...probably next week...I will be saving money for lots of upcoming events and things I could really use; schooling, a newer vehicle, and mini beach vacations.

I may have gone months maybe even years without buying new stuff for myself and through it I have learned to live and appreciate what I have. I used my money for top priority items only and stopped wasting it on fast food and lots of clothing with sneakers being the only thing I bought for myself when they wore out. I will work for what I want, even if the pay isn't the greatest. I knew my time was coming to actually make some decent money and use it to further my education and save for the future. The time is NOW! It is written in the stars and I am willing to do what it takes!! So, bring on the money baby! I am ready to work!

I completed my 5x5 Summer Mini Album today....I love it! I am teaching this class in July at the store. So excited to get back into teaching.

Walking Diego this morning I started to think of my grandmother. The vision of walking into her house right after she passed just popped into my head. I was so disappointed that almost the entire family was present when she passed and I wasn't. I know...selfish me. As I was thinking this a cardinal made an appearance....but it was only one. I thought, "How awesome would it be for her to show me now as I am thinking about her that she is with me?" A few blocks later another cardinal made an appearance in the grass next to me. Of course I keep looking for cardinal #2. The cardinal flew off into a tree across the street. Before I could blink another cardinal flew into the same tree and met with the first one. The tears just started rolling down my face as I thanked her and expressed how much I miss her. I told her that I know I will see her again but it will be so much faster in time for her then it would for me. It made me so happy that she came through for me once again. I hope she never gets tired of it.

What I am thankful for today:
signs
the unconditional love my grandmother gave to me
my children
meeting with Pastor tomorrow
God
my pets
my family
laughter
love
new customers
my awesome, amazing, fabulous friends!!
The Center
my blogs
the sun
new Stampin Up! stuff for the store
new retail that Erika just got for the store...cannot wait!!
Shawn
teaching again
time with my friends and family
ice water
swimming
the gym
clean sheets
flowers flowers everywhere!
my new Active 2 KNECT game
my clothes being too big!!
energy
spiritual growth
knowing that negativity is a waste of energy
forgiveness
trust honesty
my health
coffee
my new music on my MP3 player (thank you Jennifer)
music
smiles
happiness
the power to change your mood
rainbows

Happy happy happy!!

2011-05-27T20:21:00.000-04:00

All I can say is that I am so happy. Things with Gavin are looking up and he is currently having a blast with his cousin Justin who is going to sleep over tonight. Zachary is here watching Garfield with me and Makenna is getting ready for bed. I love hearing the kids laughing and playing.

Erika is at my store while the crazy 5-midnight crop is going on. They are enjoying wings, sloppy joes, apple pie and lots of other goodies!! Looked yummy when I was there. And Mesha's homemade salsa was sooo delicious! I had to try it before I left. I love my customers, their creativity, their loyalty and their awesome positive spirits!

Erika and I had a blast with our store meeting today, poolside. Makenna and Allison played forever in the pool. I got a nice sun burn. Day was soooo good! I actually started out breaking my mile run record this morning at the gym. I ran one mile in 7.33. The fastest I have ever run was 7.54. YAY! I was able to pound out 4.5 miles in 35 minutes...that includes the cool down. Must say I impressed myself. (And, Heather.. she was making faces at me saying I was so focused that I needed to smile.) Believe me, I was smiling all day!

My mom and I have been having lots of heart to heart chats. She mentioned how proud she is of me for standing my ground with Gavin and not giving into his selfishness. I know he will outgrow this. Hopefully it will be soon. I love how close my mom and I have gotten. She is one of my best friends. Well, I am headed to my baby's. We are going to enjoy some ice cream out by the fire on the deck under the stars.

What I am thankful for today:
ice cream
my cousins
my kids
Zachary
my pets
Erika
the store
my customers
the sunshiine
meetings by the pool
my dreams coming true
my new high tech cell phone
my family
breaking my running record
music
my health
laughter
the classes I am teaching in July
friendships
love
Shawn my best friend in the world!!
both Heathers
Jennifer G
my sister-in-law
my niece doing such a great job at her graduation
m upcoming career addition
food
ice water
coffee
the gym
imspiration
hope
my life
the chance to change anything we want, do anything we want, and be anything we want to be

So Much To Say

2011-05-23T21:36:00.000-04:00

Sitting here watching Fabulous Cakes with the kids, it amazes me that they can pretty much make anything a cake. Gavin actually mentioned that he would love to design these cakes someday. Future Cake Boss? Guess we will see.

My thing for today was to change my workout routine a bit. I also devoured Chips Ahoy cookies with milk, with the kids.I have not done that in years! I guess watching TV with the kids is a new thing for me too. Normally we are listening to music. I also left on Extreme Couponing only to see Jeremy actually salivate...LOL! We all know how he is with sales. So I guess I did a few different things today...LOL!

My friend Annie met me at my store today. I got to see Abby who was only a few months old when I saw her last. Now she is 1. I love Annie. She is one of my favorite people. Her daughter just laughs and laughs, she is the sweetest thing!

I just signed up myself for being in charge of our VBS crafts. I am looking forward to it again this year. I think my niece and nephew will be joining my kids this year.

This Friday our Memorial Picnic Crop from 5-midnight is full again!! So excited. And Memory Lane is closing as of July. Sally told me that she was there this past weekend and people were actually talking about my store!! WHOOO HOOOO! She heard them say how awesome our crops are. Guess we are doing something right! See what happens when you turn your passion into your hobby? Now I am still trying to find info on Life Coaching. I cannot wait for the venture to start. I will be patient though since I know it will happen when the time is right.

At church yesterday Pastor asked us if we have ever done a maze before or even walked through a maze. She said our lives are very much like going through a maze. We hit road blocks and have to make a decision on which way to go. If you find a $20 bill, are you going to keep it or try to find the person who lost it? If you borrow someone's stuff, will you keep it or return it? Will you steal, or won't you? Will you choose to stay faithful in a committed relationship or not? Will you choose to be happy or angry? She said that we will make the right choice if we are allowing God to guide us. Are you listening to Him? Are you choosing the right path? So glad that God is the center of my world. He has not lead me wrong, once.

Tomorrow night is the live final episode of Biggest Loser. Can't wait to see my baby and watch it with him. Heading to bed early tonight, missing my Googly Bear. But I am thankful for the time I get to spend with him.

Today I am thankful for:
the wonderful time at the zoo this past Saturday
listening to the thunder outside
my friends
my family
my pets
my kids
Shawn
the time we get together
church
ice water
coffee
inspiration
creativity
house full of groceries and clean laundry
my neighbors
happiness
goals
dreams
moments with my besties
summer on the way
scrapbooking
full classes
new teachers
Sally starting to teach again....YAY!!
VBS
new clothes
music
being able to work out 5 times a week!
Zumba
love love love

A Scrappy and Peaceful Day

2011-05-21T00:11:00.000-04:00

Today I thought I was stuck at home with Makenna not being able to venture out because our car seat was left in Jeremy's car. Then I get a text message from Jennifer G who wants to know if I am up for some craftiness. YES!!!!!!!!! She brought Jess over today to play with Makenna as her an I engaged in our HIS Challenge for June. So glad I was able to find that picture of my dad and I at my wedding. Having Jennifer here made the rainy dreary day a very sunny productive one.

When she left I managed to whip out my submission for the Scrapping the Music Challenge. I love the pictures from Mother's Day and the lyrics to the song were amazing. Here is what I came up with.....

After a good night with the family at Clara and Bryce's K-Kids Graduation, I was able to spend some quality time with Shawn. Ghost Adventures was on all evening which always is a good thing. I felt like I haven't seen him in forever and it has only been two days. I thank God for his patience and understanding with my current situation. We make the best of the time we have together. So glad he loves me enough to wait.

It was a good day. And, I am so thankful that I manage to get to spend so much time with my family and my children. I am enjoying my scrappy time since it isn't often I get to have any....especially with friends. Tomorrow will be a good day too. Erika and I are headed to the Scrapbooking Expo in New Jersey. Then when we get back my children and I are going to the zoo with some family members. I am so excited.

What I am thankful for today:
time
friends
money
laughter
being in the arms of my baby
my children
love
blue skies
being drama mama free
Diane....always making sure I am ok
challenges
scrapbooking
the zoo
animals
my pets
coffee
butter pecan ice cream
memories of my childhood
the gym
my parents
my gardens
my store
Erika
Jennifer G
Jamie
my health
the health of my loved ones
peace
serenity

Good Bye Energy Vampires!

2011-05-19T08:20:00.000-04:00

Good Morning World! I may be a little out of it today due to too much sleep....can't believe I fell asleep before 11pm! My body is not used to it. Today, I am going to bask in the feeling of happiness. I will concentrate on the things I am thankful for. I am going to stay away from the "Energy Vampires" so Robin calls them, the negative people who try their hardest to come off as positive (although deep in their souls they are miserable). The ones who suck us dry of our energy with their neediness. They tend to latch on to positive people in hopes that we can fix them. They seem to dwell in their past and blame their present situation is due to their past experiences. Well we all know that as adults we can change anything. Change your feelings about a situation, get over the haunting bad memories, and move on. Thankfully I have gotten rid of my "Energy Vampires." Throughout my life, there has been many. My personality of 'care taker' just wants to make everyone happy. With energy vampires, it doesn't work. Although they are not a prominent part of my life, they still seem to creep up, even in the most positive of places. And you know what, that is totally fine. My hopes for them is that they are truly healed from within and continue to surround themselves with only positive. I pray for them. I also pray that God keeps them away from me. I am such a better person without them. The weight of their negative anchor just makes it harder for me to live a happy, more fulfilling life. So while they may think it is my loss....they are so right. And, I would not want it any other way. I had to lose the energy vampires!

Today I am so thankful for so many things but I will narrow it down:
my kids
Gavin having a great morning so far
tonight
the sun (which just peeked through the clouds)
rainbows
coffee
my new job
love
Shawn
Jeremy
my parents
my kitties
smiles
positive people
love
laughter
scrapbooking
my store
Jamie (please pray for her)
God
church
youth
a great day today!
money
candles
the gym
flowers
the rain
my sneakers
my bed

What One Hour of Zumba Can Do.

2011-05-18T21:30:00.000-04:00

I woke up very blue but now I feel like an entire rainbow. I was looking a little gray around dinner time, but that has changed. Despite how tired I was and how miserable I felt this morning, I went to Zumba with Jennifer. I know that the slightest thing can change our mood. Once that music starts playing, I just want to dance. Instantly I felt better. I love it. And Ginny the instructor is so awesome!

I have been posting my latest projects in some scrapbooking groups on facebook and everyone loves my work. In fact I had to email 5 people directions on the one project because it was such a hit. It has totally built up my self confidence when it comes to paper crafting. I am finding that everyone has paper they just do not know what to do with it. Hopefully I can help them with ideas as I branch out and try new things myself. Erika just purchased CuttleBug die cuts for the store off of one of the groups for a really cheap rate.. The groups are a great idea!

So, you may be wondering what my new thing for today was. Well, I totally went way out of my box today. Ernie, a member at the gym has been on me for weeks about how I would make more money cleaning somewhere other than the gym. However, I was taking into consideration my kids, free gym membership and helping out a best friend. Today Jennifer and I followed Ernie about a mile from the gym. His brother works for a synagogue where they are looking for a new cleaner. What do I have to lose, right? After talking with the secretary and the Rabbi I realized that this could totally work. Not to mention that when I walked in the place there was a flag with a rainbow on it answering my question of whether or not this is where I should really be. It turns out that I can work whenever I want, And the pay is $3.25 more an hour than I am making now. I can still work at the gym too!! YAY!!!!! I was hired on the spot. And, I do not have to do the intense cleaning like I do at the gym. I will start in the beginning of June. I am so blessed to have to only work two days a week and be able to spend the rest of it with the kids. And, I will now be able to spend more time on the weekends with my kids thanks to the girls at my store. Things are looking up!!

I have been looking into H&M online. They have the cheapest bathing suits! And I am getting a bikini! I totally deserve it. Shawn calls me his Smoopy Poo with the wash board abs. While I'd like to believe that was true, he is just being nice. But I am working on it!! Yes, we watched Monsters Inc the other night, hence the nick name....LOL! He is so sweet.

Well, I am taking my good mood to bed with me. Makenna's last day of school is tomorrow. I cannot believe it! I am so proud of her. I cannot wait for her adventure to kindergarten. I know she is totally excited about it. Good night friends!
What I am thankful for today:
my life coming together
Erika
Gavin finally playing video games with Jeremy
sleep
Makenna my sunshine!
Diane being the bestest neighbor ever
Jennifer going to Zumba with me today
the HUGE hug from Jessi
prayers
confidence
money
my pets
Shawn my googly bear
quality time
the blooming flowers
all my friends making sure I am ok
my store which is booming!
all the positive feedback from my store's survey
facebook
laughter
smiles
the power to change your mood
God
serenity
birthday dinner with mom tomorrow night
Makenna's end of school program tomorrow night
Shani and Jane
VBS coming soon!
the gym
new bikinis!!
loving myself inside and out
each breath I take

Blue Day

2011-05-18T08:32:00.000-04:00

So I woke up this morning with Chloe meowing to go outside for the third day in a row. I am a little tired. Spring has definitely sprung. She always acts this way when the weather warms up. However, I am not the only person who lives here so why she has to only wake me up, I have no clue.

It is a blue day for me. I am frustrated, tired, sad and will just have to accept this for now. I hope it passes quickly. Zumba will help. Hopefully it will wake me up a bit and get me smiling. For the next hour, I am going to try to concentrate on the things I am thankful for. There are many. I m a very blessed person.

Happy Birthday to the best mom ever. I love you so much. I am excited about the zoo this weekend with my kids, my mom and my aunt! Happy Wednesday everyone.

Inspiration

2011-05-17T19:46:00.000-04:00

My new friend Robin is by far the most inspiring person ever. In the last few days she has been posting things on facebook that honestly I feel are meant for me. Her latest post was:

You might not be where you would like to be. But know and believe that you are right where you are supposed to be. Life is a journey with no set destination. The destination that we seek lies in each moment. You are in this exact moment to learn, to teach, to grow or to heal. You have arrived. Job well done.

Wow! Now that was supposed to be what I read today. I commented on her status and told her that she must have been reading my mind today. I am not comfortable where I am right now. At least 100%. But I reassure myself that I am heading in the right direction because God is leading me to where I need to be. I may not fully like the journey but there is a lesson to be learned. I just want 100% control of my life. With a 11 year old who seems to want to control me and my decisions, I am not too happy. How do I please him and still stay happy doing the things I love and the things that bring me peace? Finding a balance is what I want. And, I want to take control of my life again.

As I scrolled down Robin's page I saw yet another thing that made me stop to think. Here was her other posting:

No matter what the situation looks like or how impossible it seems always remember that everything changes. Do not be concerned with how or when things are going to shift. It's your job to trust and believe that there is a plan in place. There is major and intense work going on behind the scenes this very moment on your behalf. Hold on. Have faith. Change is coming and it's going to be good. Oh so good. Are you ready?

Thank you Robin for sharing your incredible inspiration every single day. She has truly inspired me and keeps me on track. I know things will get better. Thankfully my friends, my family and inspirational pages like Robin's help to hold me together until they do.

What I am thankful for today:
Robin
inspiring words and quotes
my kids
my family
my neighbors
Biggest Loser Finale tonight!
my googly bear
love
laughter
ever lasting friendships
God
energy
my health
clean laundry
PartyLite candles
flowers
bubble baths
massages
chocolate
Zumba tomorrow
my pets
the power of prayer
knowing that I am headed for a wonderful life

Pictures from Soup Kitchen

2011-05-15T23:15:00.000-04:00

Pictures from the Soup Kitchen yesterday:

I thank each one of you for helping with this awesome event!! You are the best!

Stuff....

2011-05-15T16:23:00.000-04:00

The soup kitchen yesterday was such a blast. The kids were so helpful and eager to do whatever it is we needed help with. We served about 45 people, mostly homeless men. Makenna was going back and forth between two jobs; serving corn on the cob and filling cups of water and juice. Everyone raved about her and asked her age. No one can believe that at 5, she is so excited to help out. I did explain to her why we were there. I know she doesn't fully understand why some do not have homes or money. But she does get that people are in that situation and may not get good meals very often. It made her want to do whatever it took to make these people happy. I managed to get some really good pictures of the day which I will post later. The kids have asked if we can go back and help again. It is a wonderful experience to see the kids not only willing and able to help but actually enjoying themselves enough to want to come back. We are going to pick another date soon to help again.

This morning at church Pastor Tricia talked about her GPS and how it kept yelling at her to turn around when she hit road construction. She ended up turing it off and using a map. Pastor mentioned how God would never yell at us. Whether we make mistakes or just stop listening to Him, he is simply there to care for us. She mentioned how we have a built in GPS within ourselves which is Him. He guides us where we need to be. We may not like where we are headed, we may hit road blocks on the way. However, He will lead us to where we are supposed to be.

I believe that we are all here to do God's work. My mom and dad are reading a book titled 40 Days of Purpose. A reverend wrote it. He believes fully that we are not just supposed to go to church every week to show our belief in God. He believes that we need to get out there and make a difference in the world. Without even knowing about this book I already feel strongly in agreement to his belief. My children and I volunteer at the shetler every Thursday night and on some weekends. And, my youth group is all about engaging in various community service projects. Then of course my store with our fundraisers. I am proud of all that my family and I do. If there was more time, we would do more.

As far as my thing for today....I asked for something from a woman at church to give to a friend of mine. They were giving out these paper cell phones that say 911 Words of Hope in Times of Need. When you open it up it has different emotions then bible verses that go hand in hand with them. Here is my bible verse for today:

Patience............ Jamies 1:2-3 Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters,^[a] whenever you face trials of many kinds, ³ because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.

What I am thankful for today:
time to myself
church
Doris (love that lady)
patience
my friends
Erika for spending the day with me
time with my mom and Jenn yesterday
the screen door on my store
new customers
my chidren
Liar Liar
The Son-in-Law
laughter
getting my teachers gifts done today!!
the rain
my Iris's in bloom
Shawn telling me the sweetest thing the other day
my Stampin Up! stuff
poetry
God
love
my home
my pets
my family
food
inspiring kids
Makenna and her smiles
Linda and my parents for taking the kids this weekend
Ghost Hunters
Ghost Adventures
Christine and Chris
Nicole
Jennifer G
the best neighbors
my store
sleep
my health
faith
hope

My Thing for a Day and The Soup Kitchen

2011-05-14T09:07:00.000-04:00

Yesterday my thing for the day was to run in the fun run with Gavin. He however, decided to take off without me. Thankfully Lenore ran with me. She was cracking me up. She was yelling, "Move out of the way....40 year olds coming through!" LOL! Then she said, "Ever see that show Are You Smarter than a 5th Grader?" I said, "yes." She said, "Well, we may not be smarter than 5th graders but we sure are faster than a lot of them." It was so funny. Gavin came in 5th place. Lenore and I beat her daughter Jordan. It made me feel really good to know that I can run....even with these allergies/head cold that I have. I was all set, tissues in my bra, running sneakers on.....and we were off. LOL!

My thing for today is to help out at my mom's church's soup kitchen with a few kids from my youth group. I will be blogging about that probably tomorrow. After the soup kitchen I will be at the store with Jenn, my mom and a few of my mom's friends for her birthday crop. Got the cake made and I am ready to scrap!

Last night was so much fun over at Jennifer G's. We didn't stay long due to me being all stuffed up but I am ok. Had a few drinks with Jennifer, Joan and Michelle. And we played You Don't Know Jack. Very fun. We will see what today brings. I am very excited about it. Happy Saturday!

Busy, Busy, Busy.....

2011-05-12T08:07:00.000-04:00

I love my busy life. I have not had much time to sit on the computer and that is ok. Between working extra hours, the kids keeping me busy, spending time outside and with my friends....oh and going to The Center, I have been a little busy. There are so many things I would love to do online like researching more info on life coaching and maybe a blog hop or two but I really do not want to take the time to sit here, especially when it is so nice outside.

Gavin has had a really good week up until this morning. I feel bad that my mom has to take him today so that I can go to work. However, I am hoping by the time they leave he is better. Craig said it was an issue they had this morning with Tanya. Focusing on the positive...one bad day compared to 3 good ones.....not too bad.

Makenna did a really great job at her kindergarten assessment yesterday. However she did tell the interviewer that we rode to the school on a horse with a pink saddle because mommy's car was broken. LOL! Where on earth did she get that from? It really made a great facebook post yesterday. Makenna is so proud of herself and she should be. She reads, she knows how to count by 10's, by 5's and by 2's. She can count past 100 now and is able to obviously come up with some great stories with her imagination. Cheryl has done an amazing job with her. What I love most about my daughter is her love for the outdoors, the simple things in life, and her amazing positive attitude. Her love for animals thrills me too. Hopefully the 5 year old will rub off on the 11 year old. I would love for Gavin to become more of an extrovert than the introvert that he is. Thankfully the therapist said that because Gavin is so young the chance of him changing is really good. With 3 of us in the house that are extremely positive, Gavin has an even greater chance of blossoming into a more positive soul.

Jeremy loves his new job. It has made our house even more of a happy place. It is nice to see him less stressed and at ease again. Life is really good. And I know only good things are to come.

My quote for the day: "Dreams are renewable. No matter what our age or condition, there are still untapped possibilities within us and new beauty waiting to be born." ~Dr. Dale Turner Have a wonderful blessed Thursday!

What I am thankful for today:
quotes
the sun
beautiful days
my children
my family
my pets
Jeremy
Shawn
positive energy
positive thoughts
Picklecon with Jennifer and Jonathan this weekend
warm blankets
my moms birthday crop this weekend
Yvonne
the Soup Kitchen on Saturday
The Center tonight with Christine
love
laughter
coffee
my health
compliments
smiles
Jenn and Brian
my parents
Jill
Nicole
Diane
Jennifer G
Erika
Dwayne
Jamie
the birds outside my window
flowers blooming
a clean house
organization
the gym
rainbows

Happiness in the House

2011-05-10T08:25:00.000-04:00

I know I just blogged last night but I could not help myself from blogging this morning. Makenna woke me up by jumping on my bed yelling "I love you Mommy!" That child just amazes me with her ever beaming light. Her excitement for the day gets me out of bed with a smile. She raised my blinds and rejoiced about the sunshine. Now what child really notices that stuff first thing in the morning...how about at all? Most people know how Makenna and Faith got along last year....they totally butted heads. Now, Makenna races down the stairs to greet her cousin with a big hearty "Good Morning Faith!" At this moment they are outside playing and it is only 8am. Makenna is just like me, she always wants to be outside.

The bunny seems to be happy hearing my voice first thing this morning. For the time being we have him in our kitchen enjoying the sunlight and the window view of the back yard. He seems to like it there a lot. As soon as he heard my voice he stood up on his hind legs and tried to find me. He is the best rabbit ever.

It was so nice to wake up with everyone around me happy, the sun shining, coffee heated up, and the ability to find matching socks....for all of us. LOL! Find happiness in the simple things and start the day off that way. I know only good things will come my way.....I deserve it and I am ready to receive! Have an amazing, fabulous Tuesday everyone. Embrace each moment and smile smile smile!
What I am thankful for today:
happiness in the house!
Makenna's wake up this morning
the sunshine
working out today
Gavin smiling
Chloe who is currently on my back
music
time
smiles
love
laughter
energy
sleep
inspirational quotes
my absolutely amazing friends
hope
tomorrow
Biggest Loser tonight!
pictures
compliments
hot showers
clean laundry
my children
my parents
each new day

Happy Monday!

2011-05-09T21:50:00.000-04:00

Monday is winding down and I am pretty tired. My friend Jennifer used to engage in this blog called A Thing A Day, which is a crafty thing and I want to get involved in something similar minus the crafts. So my 'thing a day' for today was to take a sculpting class. Each day I want to do something different. It can be as easy as listening to new music, say hi to someone I have never met, wear perfume to the gym....whatever would be different than what I normally do. Changes are good. And they create the person we want to evolve into. We have to explore the unknown and take chances.

The sculpt class was tough. It is a lot of slow movements with weights using your core to center and balance yourself. The instructor KC said I did really well for my first time. All I could say was, "My a$$ cheeks are BURNING!" LOL! It gave her a good laugh. I will continue to take this class on Monday afternoons knowing my goal is a bikini for this summer. ( :

I also said hi to someone today that is always at the gym. They never seem to make eye contact with me. Today, I was not going allow them to pass by without a hello. When people see me I want them to know that I am not shy, in no way snobby, and I am people person who cares deeply for others. I love life and really want to share my happiness with the world.

The next "new" thing I did today was look up Life Coaching. Never did I think it was a career. If it is written in the stars I am hoping to check out online schooling to get a certificate in life coaching. I would love to spread the positivity to the world.

Although life has thrown me some major curve balls and I have allowed my son to take control....today I have decided to take my life back. I made a decision this morning after a long prayer that I was not going to allow his stress to consume me any longer. You know what happened? He went into school by himself without any problems. Today, he played outside, voluntarily cleaned out the rabbit cage, and is now back to playing video games with Jeremy. It has been about two months since he has done much of anything. Now whether or not he stays this way, we shall see. All I know is that this is my life and no matter what goes on around me, no matter who is miserable, I have to do whatever it takes to be happy. My children will bask in my happiness and it will just spread like wild fire.

My advice to anyone who feels stuck in their current situation....you can change it. But you have to start with YOU. I cannot change my son or the people around me but I can change how I deal with them. Try new things, step out of your box (even if it makes your butt hurt). Put on some happy music to drown out the sorrows. You only have one chance at life. Live it. Oh, and before I forget, stop trying to live everyone elses for them, be non-judgmental, and concentrate on you. We do not know the chosen paths for others.....we do not have to agree with their choices but we do have to let them be.

What I am thankful for today:
my friends
sculpt class
positivity
happy music
my kids
my quote today: "If your heart is full of love, you will always have something to give."
Shawn
my kitties
The Center
my family
going from 6 to 31 followers on the HIS blog
time to mow the grass today
painted toes
Jamie and the baby!!
my future
Life Coaching
games
wine
time with friends and family
a full 5-midnight crop for the 4th time in a row!! WHOO HOO!
happiness
Erika's daily check in with me
Jennifer G
Christine
a clean rabbit cage... and trimmed nails
Jeremy
Heather R and Heather P
scrapbooking
the gym
the sunshine
flowers
time to blog
Makenna's hugs and I love you's
Cheryl
Nicole
Pappy
graditude
inspiration
rainbows
life

Mother's Day

2011-05-08T20:40:00.000-04:00

Today started with me being able to sleep in. I guess 8am is sleeping in, right? LOL! Makenna did wake me up at 6:45 but I managed to get her to allow me to sleep longer. Jeremy and Makenna took me to Puffins Cafe' for breakfast and we ate really well. Next stop was Neighbors so that I could pick out flowers for the yard and Makenna could pick out flowers for Nannie and Grammy. The choice of flowers were Poppies. My mom and Linda loved them. For myself, I chose petunias, snap dragons, ivy, and impatience. While I was working in the gardens and cleaning the house Jeremy made a huge dinner. We had corn on the cob, potatoes, pork tenderloin and salad. Everything (besides the salad) was cooked on the grill. It was all sooooo yummy!

My mom and Linda loved their gifts. My mom actually cried. I am so glad the albums came out so nice. They raved about the cards too. Makenna was all about taking pictures today. So here is what we have...

My evening was not so great but I am trying very hard to focus on the great day I had. I love spending time with my mom and Linda. I am so grateful that they are so appreciative of all we did for them. I am so thankful that Jeremy is so giving and teaching Makenna to be the same way. He really made my day special.

What I am thankful for today:
time with my family
my friends
Jeremy
breakfast this morning
my kids
all my new flowers
my neighbors
time to work in the garden today
a clean house
submissions for the HIS blog already
an awesome dinner tonight and I didn't have to cook it!
money
candles
cards
my cardinal figurines for the garden
working out tomorrow
being a size 8 on the way to a 6!!
the beautiful day today
Makenna's smiles and hugs
my mom and her concern for me
time
wine
my pets
The Center
laughter
love
Shawn

Creativity and a Great Few Days

2011-05-07T20:02:00.000-04:00

Today was a little unexpected. Makenna and Gavin had to come to work with me which can put a little tension in my happy place. However, both of them were very well behaved and actually quite the crafters. After getting my newsletter out, I spent some time finishing my Mother's Day gifts with matching cards. I was also able to create a layout for my sister-in-laws Scrap That Poetry challenge blog. I love it!

Shawn surprised me at work today with a large coffee and big hug. I really miss spending time with him. Because we never see each other during the day he was so expressive with compliments. Of course when he does see me it is without makeup, in baggy clothes, late at night I look ready for bed. He loves me that way but he also like to express how nice it is to see me in the sunlight.

Last night was Zumba Happy Hour. It was one of the most exciting times I have had exercising.....EVER! Jennifer G and I drank some Mike's hard lemonade and some Sangria made by the instructor Ginny. It was YUMMY! After a good buzz Zumba started. There was about 15-20 of us. Jennifer broke out in the Running Man and I almost peed. It was so fun. I definitely want to do that again. I ended the evening with a glass of wine since Jennifer was the driver. So yummy.

To sum it up, life has been really good lately. Gavin has even stopped throwing a fit before school. I have learned that as long as I support him and try my hardest to stay positive when he is not, things do get better sooner. We had 2 new customers in the store last week and 3 today. I feel physically better and seem to be eating better too. Stress really does take a toll on you. However, we are the ones who choose to walk around with a grumpy face or smile through it. My smile may not have been as bright the past month and people have noticed. There are a lot gym members who have asked me if I am ok out of concern. I love that so many people are there for me if I choose to 'need' them. They all said that they miss the sunshine...but little by little I am coming back. They said they can see my pain in my eyes....although I keep smiling.

Makenna, my little sunshine has helped me so much. In the car after a sad morning with her brother, she says, "Mommy, can we listen to our happy song....you know, the one that makes us feel better?" When I would be having a bad morning, I would put on a happy upbeat song to change our moods. Right now it is Love Song by Sarah Bareillis. But, she calls it "Head under water." LOL! You really can change your mood and sometimes all it takes is a little music.

What I am happy for today:
my sunshine Makenna
music
new customers
love
Shawn
coffee
hugs
Butter Almond ice cream
scrapbooking
challenges
laughter
fun
Chinese food tonight!!
breakfast out tomorrow
Mother's Day
having our moms over for dinner tomorrow
compliments
my friends
Zumba....so much fun!
Gavin
my store
smiles
surprises
positive people
full crops
creativity
inspiration
chocolate
money
blue skies and sunshine
time with Erika
time with Jennifer G
Jamie
my life

A Great Girls Night

2011-05-05T08:27:00.000-04:00

SO, the girls night out was a huge success. I laughed so hard my stomach hurts today. Hmm, maybe I will not have to work on my abs this morning? LOL! Jennifer, Jamie and I started out at Starter's at Riverpoint. It is a very cool place. The food was amazing. Wendy and Christine from The Center had a booth set up and were getting huge donations. Last night, if you showed the waitress a voucher for The Center, 10% of your bill went to The Center.

After Starter's we headed to The Melting Pot. OMG it was amazing. We dipped bananas, rice krispy treats, strawberries, pound cake, marshmellows, cheese cake and more. Our waiter was awesome. And, the manager is going to supply us with a gift certificate for our next Crafting for Paws.

It was a night that I really needed. I only had one drink, it was a Mojito. Very yummy! With the stress in my life, I am finding it difficult to stay positive. But I do know that if you surround yourself by positive people, it really helps. Hopefully next time, more people can make it out with us. I am just really glad that two of my best friends were able to go out with me. Thank you ladies. I love ya!

Oh, and thank you Heather for the wine tasting the other day. It is definitely something I want to do again.

What I am thankful for today:
my friends
time with them
my kids
Diane for watching Makenna
chocolate
the sunshine
my mom
energy
sleep
craftiness
flowers
positive thoughts and people
life changes
the soup kitchen this weekend with the youth group
Mothers Day
clothes
money
my jeep
Shawn
my grandfather and Aunt
my pets
Biggest Loser
my store
laughter
love
peace

Mother's Day Gift and GNO!

2011-05-04T16:59:00.000-04:00

Tonight I am heading out with some friends. Starters is first to eat some dinner and help raise money for The Center. Then a few of us are going to the Melting Pot. Thank God I won that gift certificate at the all day crop. I cannot wait to try it out. I skipped the gym this morning and went to Jennifers to be crafty instead. I managed to get one of my Mother's Day gifts finished. I am currently working on my second one. The book is from Close to My Heart and the paper is Stampin Up!

Barley being able to keep my eyes open today, I am really glad I was able to get some stuff done. The stress with Gavin has caused me to not sleep now. I know in time this will all be over. Hopefully it will be before school is out. Tonight should really help me have some fun. We are going to celebrate Jamie's pregnancy and enjoy quality time together. I will be blogging about my evening soon. Have a great night everyone!

Lots of Chocolate and an Orientation

2011-05-01T19:07:00.000-04:00

Business at the store is growing rapidly. And we are hearing so much great feedback. Friday night was our Chocoholics Crop from 5-midnight. We had 12 lovely ladies who all brought goodies to share. We dipped everything in chocolate; cheese puffs, rice krispy treats, chocolate chocolate chip cookies, cheesecake, fruit, pretzels, even bacon! It was AWESOME! Yes, even the bacon. It sounds really weird but I tried it and it was good!! We had fun playing pass the basket which I think Wendi won the most prizes. Erika and I stayed until about 1am. Allison was sleeping over at my house so we were able to hang out longer. I created two one page layouts and two cards. We are definitely hosting another one of those crops. Next month is our Memorial Day Picnic Crop from 5-midnight. We will have barbecue, and picnic foods on the 27th.

Today was great! I hosted my first orientation at the shelter with a girl scout troop. The girls were so happy to learn about the shelter and the animals. They also all filled out paper work to become volunteers. I am so excited that they all want to help. The other good news is that my man Travolta was adopted today to a very nice couple who recently lost their 7 year old cat. When they could not find one they were looking for I suggested they check out Travolta. The best thing is that Travolta picked them! He instantly climbed up on the man's shoulders and laid down. The woman was so happy that she hugged me and thanked me for showing Travolta. She even cried when she was holding him. I am so happy that I could help. I am hoping Travolta brings them many years of happiness.

What I am thankful for today:
animals finding forever homes
The Center
volunteers
the start of HIS Challenge today
my children
ice cream
my sister-in-law for keeping my store open today
Shawn
all my customers
my store
laughter
happy tears
my friends
my pets
smiles
coffee
unconditional love
loyalty
friendship
time
blooming flowers
great news
Zumba
rainbows
my long walk with Diego this morning
upcoming classes and events
the gym
my life

The Big News

2011-04-28T23:21:00.001-04:00

Well here it goes.....I received permission tonight that I am allowed to announce the news that I am soooo happy about. I am not allowed to post it on facebook but I can write it in my blog......My bestest friend in the entire world is having a baby!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Jamie and Marke have been trying for a while now and finally Baby Wismer is on it's way!! I screamed...I cried a little..... and I screamed some more. I think I may have even jumped up and down a bit....LOL!

Jamie is honestly the best friend anyone could ever ask for. No matter how much I change, no matter what choices I make, she only grows with me. She has always been there every step of the way. Jamie has never judged me and always allows me to go through life lessons staying by my side. She may not always agree with what I do but she knows that this is a lesson I have to learn. She knows when to keep her distance and she knows when to embrace the moments we have together. She knows what I need and when I need it without me saying a word. God brought us together to help make each others lives better. We know that we will be little old ladies and still best friends.....and I would not want to be in a nursing home with any other person. LOL!

I cannot wait to start this new venture with her. I will be by her side as long as she needs/wants me to be during the pregnancy and I will be holding her hand during the labor and crying with her after the birth. Love you so much best friend.

What I am thankful for today:
Jamie and Marke
Baby Wismer
baby stuff!!
Rachel and her brother for making me laugh these last two days.
the chance to take Clara to the shelter tonight with Makenna
Kitty Travolta in his Gap shirt (picture coming soon)
kitty kisses
energy
free gym membership
my new volunteer t-shirt from Laura
Zoe and Chloe who are laying with me now (one on each side)
my kids
my friends
my family
rainbows
Jeremy's mom
jeep being fixed, again
flowers
music
signs
working in my flower beds today
quality time with Makenna outside today
working at the shelter tonight with Christine
Diane for allowing me to borrow her car again
the Chocoholic's Crop tomorrow night!
time to scrapbook and make some cards
love
hope
the power of prayer
my health

So Much to Write About

2011-04-27T22:18:00.000-04:00

Today did not start off well. Gavin had a melt down in the school lobby and I was almost late getting Makenna to Jaymen's house. When Jennifer G and I arrived at Zumba it was only a matter of 10 minutes before I had an anxiety attack. My face turned bright red, I could not get my legs to work, I felt sick to my stomach and I just wanted to sit down.....kind of how Gavin feels every single morning. So, I turned my thoughts to focusing on the Zumba and ended up having a really good time. When it was over, my energy was completely depleted. A trip to The Healing Place is well needed. I realize that I am not staying balanced through this situation with Gavin. This was the second anxiety attack I had this week.

I went with Gavin this time to the therapist and twice received a sign from my grandmother. One was on the way there. It made me feel good to know that she was with me. The appointment went fine. I just do not know what will help Gavin or what will ease him. And, he really isn't motivated to try anything. I am going ahead with my idea of creating for him an mini album that he can have at school. The therapist thought him having pictures of Craig and I would be an awesome idea. Gavin did not agree but we will not know until we try.

We have discovered that if he sleeps with Diego he sleeps much better. YAY! Now I am not sure what he will do at his dad's but we will see.

On a positive note, I received such a nice compliment today. Ann from the childcare at the gym told me that Makenna is like the sunshine. (Funny since I call her that.) She said that she loves to giggle, is always smiling and reminds her of me. That made me feel so good. And, the weirder thing was that just on Monday at the gym 2 different people said I am like the sunshine there. LOL! I really honestly try to not take my issues to work....or out on others. It isn't worth making someone else miserable because I am having a bad day. There are times when people can see that I am not myself. But I will not burden them with my issues. Instead I just keep on going....smiling through the tears. If I feel a break down happening, I go outside or in the bathroom where I can be alone. Focus on the good. We choose our mood. Crap happens, but it is how we deal with it that matters.

Another quick story.....I was vacuuming the gym the other day (like every day) and this member who comes in every single day asks me if I found any money. I laughed because about 5 minutes before hand I found a penny on the floor. So I told him yes and asked him if he left it there for me. He said, "No." He asked if I kept it and I of course said yes. Yesterday the same guy asked again if I found any money. When I said no, I added "but the next time I do, it will be a lot more than a penny!" His response was, "Yes it will be my friend, it is written in the stars. It will happen soon." Then on my way home from Gavin's appointment there was a new song on the radio that was announced as "this will probably be the next song you download" then they said the name and it was Written in the Stars. I swear every hair on my body stood straight up! I could not believe it. This is the member that last week I over heard him say to another member, "You choose your destiny my friend." He is like this positive energy that I totally need right now. And, every time I turn around he is there. Not in a creepy way either. LOL!

I got home and checked facebook to see Rachel on and her brother. We kept posting all over her link and being silly. It was totally what I needed. I am so thankful for silliness and those who make me laugh. I am blessed that there are so many in my life that do that for me! Hopefully next Wednesday will work for all my girls to go out to the Melting Pot with me. It has been a while since I have seen everyone.

I think I have said enough. There is more but it can wait. What I am thankful for today:
Diane
Gavin's therapist
laughter
friendships
Rachel
Jennifer G
Erika
the awesome weather today
positive people
inspiration
the card I made today
love
my first orientation at The Center this Sunday.....wish me luck!
animals
music
candles
flowers
bubble baths
craftiness
the news I so badly want to explode and tell the world....but I can't yet.
cooking on the grill
positive thoughts
energy
my health
simple things
girls night
Zumba Happy Hour next week....whooo hooo!
massages
compliments
smiles
kindness
God

Firework

2011-04-25T20:33:00.001-04:00

Firework by Katy Perry......I chose this song for my blog because I can totally relate to it. During a difficult time this song came out and hit me like a brick. Every time I listen to this song it uplifts me. It is definitely on my MP3 player, which I currently cannot find. Hopefully soon. I have included the lyrics at the end of this posting.

Walking today around the track at the gym, I decided to say a prayer for my last lap. Just as I was saying, "I would REALLY like to see a sign from my gran....." (didn't get to finish the sentence) 2 cardinals decided to appear in the tree right next to me. All I could say was, "WOW you are quick!" Most people know that after my grandmother passed away I asked to see two cardinals when she was around me. It can come in any form; on a sweatshirt, in real life, on TV, I have even received a card in the mail with two cardinals on the stamp. Because my grandmother was a second mom to me, it was very important that received signs from her. It eases any pain I may be feeling and gives me the truth that there is life beyond what we see. My grandmother makes her appearances often and I always thank her. If I see one cardinal I will get a little sad but most of the time it only takes a few seconds until the second one makes it's appearance. Thank you Mimi for my sign today. Although I miss you dearly, I know you are always with me.

What I am thankful for today:
my grandmother
signs
rainbows
time with Erika today
working in the garden
dinner with Paul and Erika
the gym
sleep
flowers
my kids
my pets
my friends
my family
Diane for watching Makenna for me tomorrow.
Gavin laughing and having a lot of fun today
Ghost Adventures
hot showers
clean bedding...smells sooo good
faith
hope
love
laughter
sunshine
warm weather
my new sneakers which felt so much better than my old ones today!
The Center with Christine on Thursday nights
Zumba on Wednesday
Chocoholics Crop this Friday night! YAY!!!!!!
the fact that the crop is FULL!
the HIS Blog starting on Sunday!
lots of new followers
God
positive attitudes
graditute
poetry
inspirational quotes
my health
energy
time

Lyrics to Firework:
Do you ever feel like a plastic bag
Drifting through the wind, wanting to start again?
Do you ever feel, feel so paper thin
Like a house of cards, one blow from caving in?

Do you ever feel already buried deep?
Six feet under screams but no one seems to hear a thing
Do you know that there's still a chance for you
'Cause there's a spark in you?

You just gotta ignite the light and let it shine
Just own the night like the 4th of July

'Cause baby, you're a firework
Come on, show 'em what you're worth
Make 'em go, oh
As you shoot across the sky

Baby, you're a firework
Come on, let your colors burst
Make 'em go, oh
You're gonna leave 'em falling down

You don't have to feel like a waste of space
You're original, cannot be replaced
If you only knew what the future holds
After a hurricane comes a rainbow

Maybe you're reason why all the doors are closed
So you could open one that leads you to the perfect road
Like a lightning bolt, your heart will blow
And when it's time, you'll know

You just gotta ignite the light and let it shine
Just own the night like the 4th of July

'Cause baby you're a firework
Come on, show 'em what you're worth
Make 'em go, oh
As you shoot across the sky

Baby, you're a firework
Come on, let your colors burst
Make 'em go, oh
You're gonna leave 'em falling down

Boom, boom, boom
Even brighter than the moon, moon, moon
It's always been inside of you, you, you
And now it's time to let it through

'Cause baby you're a firework
Come on, show 'em what you're worth
Make 'em go, oh
As you shoot across the sky

Baby, you're a firework
Come on, let your colors burst
Make 'em go, oh
You're gonna leave 'em falling down

Boom, boom, boom
Even brighter than the moon, moon, moon
Boom, boom, boom
Even brighter than the moon, moon, moon

Easter Sunday

2011-04-24T17:35:00.000-04:00

Besides Makenna keeping me up most of the night due to finding her way to my bed.....we had a really good Easter. Breakfast was at church this morning and my mom and dad joined us. Kayla made me a really cute Easter card which her mom Cindy said that she could not wait to give it to me. It was nice to sit with Kayla and her family at church today.

When we got home we started the ham and chopped up all the veggies. Dinner was very good. My parents, my aunt, Jeremy's mom Linda, and Bob came over for dinner. I love having everyone together. The only thing that was missing was Gavin but I am sure he is having a great day with his dad and that side of the family. My dog is highly enjoying the variety of laps he has to choose from today. If only he had a lap every day....

It was nice to walk outside this morning to see that every single one of my tulips was wide open soaking up the sun. It was as if they knew it was Easter. Makenna loves flowers just as much as I do. I love that the two of us can work in the garden together.

When Makenna went out front, she noticed that the Easter Bunny either dropped eggs in our yard or decided to decorate for us.

I hope that many people remembered the reason for today. "Christ the Lord has risen today, Alleluia! Earth and Heaven in chorus say, Alleluia! Raise your joys and triumphs high, Alleluia! Sing, ye heavens, and earth reply, Alleluia!" One of my favorite hymns. I wish you God's blessings today and every day. I hope this day was as joyous for you as it was for me.

What I am thankful for today:
Easter dinner with family
church
music
this warm, sunny, beautiful day
the colors purple and blue
candles
flowers
CHOCOLATE!
my friends
my family
my children
painted toes
the beach
simplicity
the Hart family
spring
energy
sleep tonight
my health
a clean house
clean laundry
the time my parents spend with my children
my pets
unconditional love
confidence
kindness
loyalty
patience
balance
laughter
comfort
peace

Today was Great!

2011-04-23T19:50:00.000-04:00

Today was a great day! I spent most of it with Makenna at the Feline Frenzy event in Macungie. Chris and Christine did a great job setting up the table. They brought their foster kittens which certainly were a hit, especially with the kids. Makenna's new friend Reilly was there. She is Christine's niece and is the same age as Makenna. The two of them get a long sooooooo well. Here are some pictures from today:

I purchased two books which I will be posting quotes from I am sure. The event was like a huge yard sale. Right up Jeremy's alley....LOL! I found out that Christine's husband is in a Christian Rock band....how cool is that? I really like Christine and Chris. They are both inspiring, sweet and giving people.

My mom came with us today. She enjoyed Makenna's love for the animals. After we left the event, we took Makenna to Build A Bear for her birthday present from my mom. She got a sparkly kitty which she named Beauty. The clothes are just too cute. And they even have shoes and a bed...geez! Where was this stuff when I was a kid? I could not stand Barbies and dolls. I would have taken stuffed animals to dress up any day!

HAPPY EASTER!

What I am thankful for today:
a great day today!
having the family over for dinner tomorrow
my kids
quality time with family and friends
blogs
love
kitties
my pets
my new dress for church tomorrow
breakfast with my family at church tomorrow
church
laughter
getting Makenna's banner done
jewelry
God
the power of prayer
flowers flowers everywhere
pictures
facebook
email
sleep
Chris and Christine
Reilly (Makenna's new friend from the shelter)
time
my home
bills getting paid
my store
my customers
the followers of my blogs
new books
life

Don't Bring Me Down

2011-04-22T23:57:00.000-04:00

I am soaring! Nothing can bring me down. So many positive things happening I cannot seem to stop blogging every single night!

Josh from Patch.com posted the start of our HIS Challenge blog in the online newspaper today. Last I checked 10 people recommended the article. My thought on this blog is to help people become more positive. Yes gas is expensive, children get whiny, sometimes our health isn't the best, and sometimes things can be worse. So, lets change those thoughts into the positive. Anyone who likes to be crafty will be able to participate. And, they can create anything that they are inspired to create. If we take our minds off the things that bother us, we are creating more positive events in our lives. Focus on the good. Tell those who complain to give it to God. Us positive people want to stay in the realm of all good things. Nothing good can come from complaining. I want all good things to come to everyone.

Tomorrow I am excited to spend some time with my shelter friends, furry and non furry. Christine, her hubby and I are working at the Feline Frenzy event in Macungie. It is a huge event with lots of other cat rescues trying to get cats adopted and money raised. It will be fun. I am blessed to know such wonderful people through the shelter. We all try our hardest to help out where we can. Everyone is so awesome.

Zumba was great this week.....I got to take it TWICE! Happy Hour is coming up on May 6th. Jennifer and I will be there having some drinks before making fools of ourselves during Zumba class. We are very excited! Thank you Diane for taking care of the girls while we are having some fun. I broke down today and bought sneakers. My pinkie toe has a blister from Zumba today. I know there is now way I can wear them anymore. They are over a year old and I use them HARD!

I got a chance to spend some time with Erika today. I helped her organize her craft room. Next will be working on her flower beds. Allison and Makenna had a good time playing.

My mom finally sent me some pictures of Makenna's birthday party at Chuck E. Cheese. She really had a lot of fun. I will post those later. A huge thank you to everyone who came.

Things with Gavin were not so bad this morning or yesterday but of course he wasn't going to school. I am hoping to get him a picture book with silly pictures and maybe some of his dad and I to help him during school. Maybe this way he won't feel so alone.

Well, it is now almost midnight and I have to get up early for the Feline Frenzy. Good night for now! Hopefully I will be able to keep up this nightly routine and keep up the blogging before bed. It really helps me sleep.

What I am thankful for today:
friends friends friends
Easter
Feline Frenzy
Christine and her husband Chris
The Center
family
egg hunts
chocolate
Dwaynes workout working
Zumba
energy
hogies
my garden which is looking GOOOOD!
Diane
my pets
my kids
smiles
self esteem
laughing so hard your stomach hurts
blushing moments
creativity
my new sneakers
compliments
kindness
inspirational quotes
God
my store
full classes
sleep
the sunshine
summer on it's way!
foot massages
facebook
bare feet
the gym
working out with Jennifer G
Shawn
money
my home
love

Kittens Galore!

2011-04-21T23:38:00.000-04:00

At The Center tonight my children and I were so lucky to be able to hold 6 day old kittens and their mommy. Someone dropped them off in a box at the shelter today. Gavin got a chance to see how small our cat Precious was when we found her. He was only a month old when we found Precious on the side of the road. At only a week old and already away from her mommy, we decided to raise her. Now she is 11 years old and currently laying on my lap. ( :

These kitties are being fostered out tomorrow and will be able to stay with their mommy. It was awesome to see how happy these tiny little creatures made my children. Christine and I loved them too!

It was nice to see Gavin smiling and excited about something. Thank you to Nicole for allowing us to spend time with the babies. Hopefully when they are old enough and ready for a home, they will get one.

What I am thankful for today:
cats
the smiles on my childrens faces
laying in bed with my 3 kitties
The Center
Christine
Zumba tomorrow
a great week
my friends
my children
laughter
compliments
Feline Frenzy on Saturday
Easter
the day with Erika tomorrow
smiles
inspiration
creativity
money
sleep
energy
the chocolate covered brandy cherry I had tonight...thank you Shara!
love
flowers
FRIENDS (tv show)
Who's Line is it Anyway
confidence
ever lasting friendships
peace
time
my bed
my jeep
coffee
Shawn
my store
classes
customers
my life

My Sacred Space

2011-04-20T23:29:00.000-04:00

Tonight I created my sacred space. It is in my room and almost ready for me to just 'be'. There are a few things I have yet to add but I love the way it is turning out. So far I have added things that remind me of my loved ones who have passed away, inspirational quotes, candles, and my gratitude book. I am hoping to take a few minutes each day and spend time focusing on me in my new space. I will take a picture and add it to the blog once I am done. This little task was recommended in the book Simple Abundance.

I went to The Healing Place today and was told that I was absolutely in need of it. My root was out, my solar plexus was closed, my throat and my head was closed. How I functioned....I'll never know. And to think that I was actually feeling better in the last few days. LOL! I feel so much better right now. Although I am currently listening to my son sob because it is that time of night, I still feel ok. Chloe is sitting on my lap and Diego is right next to me. I find comfort in their warmth and their unconditional love. Craig, Gavin and I sat on the porch tonight and talked. Not that it helped but it made me realize that the three of us can work together as a team to try to fix the situation. However, Gavin really isn't on board with anything right now. Time will heal him as well as his therapy.

My brother stopped over and we had a good conversation. It is nice to hear how many people are on our side and willing to help out. I will be going to therapy with Gavin next week since it is my turn. I am excited to see what the therapist has to say. Maybe he can give us some clue on how to deal with Gavin better. For now I am just going to be thankful that we are all healthy. We all have a roof over our heads. We have food on the table and a place to sleep. I have so many things to be thankful for today.

I am thankful for:
the quote I just read "If you want people to like you, you have to like yourself first."
my sacred space
my pets
my amazing friends and family
my children
my bed
my jeep being fixed and inspected.
my health
my neighbors
chocolate
coffee
The Healing Place
The Center
laughter
Heather R. for checking up on me today ( :
the warm weather
Zumba this morning which was so much fun!
the sunshine
bills being paid
a good nights sleep
a clean house
awesome customers
my store
my teachers
loyalty
the awesome news I heard tonight!
kindness
smiles
happiness
confidence
inspiration
God
my church
Easter this Sunday!
the Feline Frenzy event on Saturday with Christine and her husband
being able to communicate with my ex
Shawn being so understanding
Jennifer G for making me laugh
PartyLite candles
new clothes (thank you mom!)
the power of prayer
love

Today

2011-04-20T00:02:00.000-04:00

Laying here next to my Monkey aka Chloe, I am feeling very grateful. I know it is late and I should be trying to sleep but I felt like I had to blog. Maybe this will be considered my 'meditation' time. In reading Simple Abundance, even us majorly busy women need to have that time to feel at peace doing something we love. Writing has always made me feel better. I get that from my grandfather.

I had signs all over the place today from my loved ones probably letting me know that they are here during such a difficult time. Makenna for no reason at all said, "Mimi." I said, "WHAT?" and she giggled! Then I saw a pelican on the Yahoo news tonight which is a sign from my grandfather....then checking my email I see the word humming bird which is a sign from Melinda's grandmother. Oh, I forgot to mention the monarch butterflies I saw; yellow is from Nana and orange is from Aunt Aida, Jeremy's family. I feel so peaceful knowing that they are with me. They are really trying to let me know that I am not alone.

My relationship with Craig has grown into something I NEVER thought it would. We can communicate so much better which will only allow a better future for Gavin. It is nice to know that we CAN work together to raise our son.

At the gym I heard someone yelling something but kept ignoring it because I had no idea it was in reference to me. LOL! When I turned around it was the trainer Dwayne yelling, "SLIM!" I laughed since he was trying to get my attention. He was acknowledging how thin I look. I have been working out every single day except the weekends and doing the things he has shown me and it is making a huge difference. I am so thankful. It really means a lot when a trainer notices a difference. I love my new nickname. He can call me slim anytime he wants. ( :

I met some awesome people on facebook today which shared my HIS blog with all of their fans. The page is so inspiring and so uplifting. I am so glad I found them and shared them with my friends. I will be checking this page every single day to start my day off on a positive note. Mornings are always the most difficult so I know this will help.

The class at my store tonight was amazing. I absolutely love the cards we made. I am actually giving one out tomorrow to Angie at the gym. She is our intern who's last day is tomorrow.

I got to watch the Biggest Loser with Shawn, and come home to 3 kitties who just welcomed me with open paws. Every night they sleep with me as if they know I need some comfort. I love them soooo much.

Tomorrow is Zumba with Jennifer and possibly Heather. I am excited to be able to go for the second week in a row. Zumba is even on Friday this week too!

I will be seeing Linda tomorrow at The Healing Place to open up my solar plexus which has been closed now for over a week. Man what stress can do to a person! The good thing is that I am honestly very happy right now. I can smile through the tears and know that we will all get through this. A big thank you to my friends and family for always being there for me. Love you guys!

What I am thankful for today:
this amazing day
an amazing day tomorrow
my kitties
my children
my friends
my family
Linda
my blooming flowers
laughter
beautiful cards
creativity
love
the sunshine
Dwayne
Diane for taking care of my kids tomorrow so that I can take care of myself.
fun times with friends
Zumba
my new body!
The Biggest Loser
time to myself
signs
rainbows
smiles
every new day
my life

Friendships are a Blessing

2011-04-18T20:14:00.000-04:00

I could sit here and type all of my frustrations to get it out of my system. OR I could lie and act like my life is perfect and nothing bothers me. I am choosing to do neither. Instead, I am going to blog about how amazing my friends are. This will get my mind off the 'crap' that I am dealing with on a day to day basis with my son, even if it is only for a short time.

I look at the lives of others and see how lonely they are. Even if they have one good friend, it isn't enough. Not many people are as blessed as I am to have the friendships I have. Everyone should be so lucky.

Jamie, my soul sister, calls me every once in a while to touch base with me. She out of all of my friends knows what makes my heart soar and break. We are so in-tune with each other that it is hard for others to understand. We may hardly ever see each other or spend much time on the phone but I do know that she is always and forever there, hoping the best for me, praying for me.....just as I do for her.

Rachel is my butch....just kidding. Actually Rachel is my 'tell it like it is' friend. She has always been that way. Never does she tip toe around anything nor does she put up with much drama. I love her ability to stand her ground and hold fast to what she believes in. Her humor is hysterical.

Melinda and I hardly ever see each other or get to talk anymore. But she is there if I need to call her just as I am for her. She helped me have a voice and stand up for myself. She helped me with my self confidence and with the knowledge that I do not have to put up with things if I do not want too.

Diane is my peeping Tom neighbor....and I wouldn't want it any other way. I adore her. We have so much in common that it freaks me out sometimes! LOL! I have learned a lot from her these past few years and I appreciate all she does and all she is.

Heather makes a great boss as well as friend. And it isn't often that work/friend relationships work out for very long. But I know that with Heather and I being friends now for over 22 years that we can get along through every situation and our friendship is worth too much to let anything get in our way. We have over come many obstacles and always come out on top.

Erika has become my right hand girl. We are pretty good at keeping each other from falling too far. And, we also have a lot in common. We make great friends/business partners and I know we have a great future in store for us. She is an inspiration to me and I love that she is so positive and understanding.

Jennifer G. is just the best. Her humor....her understanding....she always brings me back to the positive when I am feeling the outweighing negativity. I love Zumba with her and spending time with Jessi. Although our Wednesday therapy days do not happen every week, that is ok. When they do happen we have a great time.

I have such a good time when I get to hang with Sally. It isn't often that we get to spend time together but when we do, we laugh hard and LOUD. I love her creativity and her silliness. She is very loyal and understanding.

I have other friends that I love to death like; Kathy F, Yvonne, Linda, Wendi, Heather (Shawn's sister), Shani, Angel, Christine, Missy, Nicole and many more. Friends that live far away, friends that are just so busy. Don't get me wrong, I do not consider all those facebook people my friends. If anything the ones I do not see or really know on a personal level are just there for business related reasons, otherwise I would delete them.

I know after all these years that you do not need to talk to or see your friends every day, once a week, or once a month for that matter. As long as you have both have trust, honesty, and love there is no selfishness, no envy, no worries, no insecurities and no possessiveness at all. I love my friends, I love that they have friendships outside of me. But most of all, I love when they succeed, when they are happy and full of joy and when they decide to share it with me. My friends and I are solid. And I am so blessed to know each and every one of them and to be a part of their lives as they are a part of mine.

What I am thankful for today:
my friends
laughter
girls night to The Melting Pot (which is coming soon)
my store
my family
my kids
my pets
the gym
compliments
confidence
security
fun
time
my blogs
customers
scrapbooking
God
peace
patience
love
Shawn
my health
the health of my loved ones
angels
signs from above
Linda and The Healing Place
strength
my brother allowing me to use his SUV
my dad fixing my Jeep
Jim Carrey
energy
a free spirit
the power to choose your mood
positive thinking
money
music
my parents
my bed
hot showers
coffee
a walk/talk with Heather today
every lasting friendships

Emotional Rollercoaster

2011-04-16T19:20:00.000-04:00

This week has been an emotional rollercoaster for me. I know God only gives us what we can handle and all I can say to that is, he has a lot more faith in me than I do. Today I cried and actually didn't want to get out of bed. I feel like I am hanging on by a thread and all I want to do is let go. But, I can't let go nor would I. Trying to cope with the stresses of a majorly depressed 11 year old son is so trying. All I want to do is make it better and I can't, especially when I am starting to fall apart.

Checking facebook today my sister-in-law posted a quote that I really needed to see. Here is what she wrote: "Life`s challenges are not supposed to paralyze you. They are supposed to help you discover who you are." -Bernice Johnson-Reagon

Maybe I will discover that I am stronger than I thought. I already know that this experience has taught me the patience and the understanding that Shawn has with me and my situation. Instead of being angry because of the lack of time we get to spend together, he is empathetic to my situation. And my friends are the best friends anyone could ever ask for. My family feels my pain and tries so hard to help where they can. I am so blessed.

Now to just keep my head up and keep praying. I pray for Gavin that he starts to heal. I pray that all of those affected by his emotions have the patience we need to get through all of this. I pray for only positive people to surround me and my family. I pray for sleep and for energy. May my health stay strong and my spirit feel enlightened again.

What I am thankful for today:
my health
my friends
my family
my pets
Makenna's successful party today
a great store meeting this morning
the block option on facebook
laughter
love
Shawn
prayers
kindness
smiles
rainbows
therapists
chocolate
sunshine
my store
my pets
The Center
the rain
scrapbooking
awesome neighbors
seeing a light at the end of the tunnel...hopefully soon

April 10th

2011-04-10T19:53:00.000-04:00

Lately things have been looking up for Gavin, Craig and I. Gavin actually went school with no issues on Friday. Although he has only been to therapy once, already he is starting to apply the tips and tools that the therapist gave him. Now we just have to hope it stays that way.

I had a great week. Working at the gym was fun, my workouts have been really good, and I am feeling good about getting stuff done around my house. Never did we get mulch for the yard last year so it is nice to see the front of the house all nicely mulched with the Easter/Spring flowers in bloom. I love the black. It really shows the colors of the flowers well.

I am working on the Happy Inspirational Scrappin Blog again. My sister-in-law has some great ideas that she is sharing with us soon. The blog's background is now a rainbow and everything on the blog revolves around that theme. I am excited to start it up in May. We already have a new follower!

Church this morning was awesome. And, another person came up to me and thanked me for my 'sermon' a few months back. They said it inspired them. WOW! That is two people that I didn't know that have thanked me for that. I was hoping to touch just one person...but two! How exciting.

My life is changing and it is because I am filtering out the negativity.....in situations, in people, in my life. The quote I picked for the HIS Challenge that starts in May is:
People are like stained-glass windows.
They sparkle and shine when the sun is out,
but when the darkness sets in, their true beauty is revealed
only if there is a light from within.

~ Elizabeth Kübler-Ross ~

The reason I chose it was because I used to be the stained glass that only looked nice in the sun. But now because I have God's light within, I can shine even in the dark. People do notice.....and my Pastor even mentioned this during her message this morning. People do notice when one is living with God as their light. I am hoping that I can shine on everyone who is around me and show them what God can do for them.

What I am thankful for today:
taxes being done
my children
my friends
my family
quality time
laughter
my jobs
money
my pets
laughter
Ghost Hunters
my health and the health of my loved ones
love
music
a girls night being scheduled soon!
scrapbooking
challenges
life lessons
Stampin Up!
the funny things kids say
clean laundry
sunset
new customers
coffee
Shawn
jewelry
God
the power of prayer
my future

Fundraiser for Lincoln Elementary School

2011-04-03T00:00:00.000-04:00

Today was such a blast. I got to scrapbook all day with a bunch of amazing ladies. Believe it or not, I have never gone anywhere for an all day crop. I have attended the ones at my store, but never anywhere else. The food was amazing, they had great prizes and the people were so nice. I cannot believe I lasted 10 hours! We are hoping that this fundraiser was a success for Lincoln Elementary. Anything our store can do to help, we will.

Here is what I got done:

What I am thankful for today:
time to enjoy scrappin with my friends
fundraisers
my pets
my children
my friends
my family
creativity
inspiration
the sunshine
quality time
a fun day tomorrow
my store
my customers
being surrounded by confident, positive people
the gym
scrapbook challenges
The Secret
the gift certificate I won to Melt (totally making that a girls night out!)
love
laughter
Shawn
flowers
rainbows
signs from above
confidence
peace

Ramblings for the Day

2011-03-27T08:48:00.000-04:00

Yesterday at the Gem, Mineral and Jewelry show Chuck from Lost River Caverns asked me how I was. Knowing the twists and turns that has taken in the last month, I really didn't know at first how to answer. So I said, "I am good, no sense complaining." He answered with, "Someone always has it worse." He is totally right.

God wants us to go through these obstacles to learn things. And, I have come to realize that we always end up better in the end. I am blessed to have such wonderful friends and family who make sure I know that I am not alone. My mom reminded me of a passage that was actually in The Secret; "We are always exactly where we are supposed to be at every moment." Although the moment may make us feel bad, it will end. I try telling my son that. But, he has not acquired that positivity yet. Hopefully it will not take him long to learn the power of positive thoughts. His counselor mentioned to him that a lot of people get crabby on rainy days. Then she asked him what good the rain does for us. When he answered, "It makes the grass grow, the flowers grow and gives us water" she said, "If everyone would focus on the good of the rain, their day would not be so bad." To me, a rainy day makes us appreciate the sunshine even more. I try to focus on the good of every situation but sometimes when there is so much going on that is negative it is hard. My friends try help turn my thoughts around and point out the good. And, they are so good at it.

Things at the gym are looking up, my store is still going strong. Working and spending time with a bunch of Christian women is very uplifting. I absolutely love 'my happy place'. Now all I have to wrap my head around is the issues with Gavin. I am very thankful that I am able to relate to him and what he is going through. Although going through the experience was tough, because of it I can be more patient and understanding as he goes through this. I feel his pain and sadness. It is something he has to learn from. I know in my heart that he will get through this and be a stronger child.

What I am thankful for today:
the sunshine
the power of positive thoughts
The Secret
my mom
my friends
Cassie (who is going home today. I will miss her.)
The Gem Show
the new cross pendant I bought.
my pets
strength
confidence
The Healing Place
blooming flowers
a busy day today at the store
Marker Club....YAY!
my teachers
my customers
hot showers
energy
good food last night at Red Robin
quality time with my family
Bryce and Clara
laughter
coffee
a clean house
compliments (thank you Heather)
God
love

Good News with a Side of Confidence

2011-03-21T17:29:00.000-04:00

Today I found out that Gavin is going to the number one child counselor in the Lehigh Valley. And, Craig's insurance will cover the cost of 60 visits with a $20 copay. It made me feel really good that he is willing to get Gavin the help he needs. This counselor was recommended by a friend of my moms who has grandchildren that have benefited from this counselor, greatly. I am so thankful that my mom passed the referral. With a Healing Place appointment on Thursday and this new counselor, I know Gavin will be on his way to a better life.

I was actually inspired by my mom to write today. Little does she know it but her compliment overwhelmed me with happiness and peacefulness. My mom and Aunt took my kids and my niece and nephew to Chuck E Cheese on Saturday while I was at work. I love that my family is so willing to spend so much quality time with my children. I think my Aunt and my mom look forward to Chuck E Cheese just as much as the kids. LOL! After spending the day with the kids my my sent me a facebook message. She wrote that she is very proud of me and how I am raising my children. She said that they are both such wonderful and well behaved kids. It made me feel really good. My mom has been so gracious lately in telling me how proud she is of me. She constantly says she loves me now and offers to take my children more because of how much I am working. It feels nice not to have to ask someone to watch my kids. It feels nice to have your mom tell you how she feels even at 36 years old. I tell my kids all the time that I love them. My mom was not one to voice it all that much when we were kids.

I believe that if you tell your children that you are proud of them, at any age, it gives them a sense of self confidence. I can say I have more confidence now than I did as a child or teenager. I can clearly see that my kids are confident, especially Makenna. My kids are my world. If I can be confident about myself and work hard for what I want, it will be instilled in my children. My father was a work-aholic. And, his work ethic was definitely instilled in me. Meaning, that no matter how much you are making at a job, you work your hardest and do your best at it. Poor Heather isn't lucky enough to have found a staff that has much of a work ethic anymore. Everyone has lots of expectations and feel that they are 'above' their job at the gym. So, if they do not feel they are getting paid what they are worth, they will not fully do their job. Heather and I were raised the same way. If she did not have Zachary, we both agree that she would live at the gym. It may not be the healthiest way to live...to work until you are ready to collapse, but we both agree that we work for every cent of our income. If only others were the same way our jobs would be a lot easier.

Today, I am proud of who I am. I am proud of the mother I have become and I am proud of the hard worker that I am. I feel good about myself. If my mom can see all the good that I am instilling in my children, than I must be doing something right. If my boss/best friend can rely on me to do jobs that most men would not do, than I will pat myself on the back. Confidence is not something you are born with, it is something you acquire. Thank you to all of my friends, family, and my children for showing me that I am a strong confident woman who is on the way to becoming a very successful person in every aspect of her life.

What I am thankful for today:
love
laughter
confidence
Cassie
Chinese food
Brent who constantly makes me laugh
spring
music
time to sit down and blog
the store looking really good, thanks Erika
coffee
flavored creamer
rainbows
a long walk today with the pups
my friends
family
compliments
my kitties
the Center with Christine on Thursday night
strength
Zumba and therapy on Wednesday with Jennifer
Shawn's new line of 'green' jewelry
the April 2nd Crop
Being in charge of the small group orientations at The Center
getting more hours at the gym (bigger pay checks!)
budding flowers
Makenna's upcoming 5th birthday!!
having the best neighbors in the world
my PartyLite catalog show this month
Rachel who makes me laugh until my stomach hurts
Shawn
faith
God
hope
feeling complete and content with my life

Change Although Difficult is a Good Thing in the End

2011-03-18T10:53:00.000-04:00

Know one knows why things happen. Know one really knows what a person may be going through in their personal life. Know one knows what it feels like to be someone else. What we do know is that there are so many emotions that come with any change in our lives and the lives of those we love. How we deal with it is what matters.

There is so much negativity at the gym right now that you can feel it when you walk in the doors. Our 'sunshine' is no longer with us and we have yet to find a replacement. Members are asking questions, Heather is extremely stressed out and things are very different. People used to think I was crazy that I actually enjoyed going to the gym to clean and watch children. But the reason I loved it was because of the people. Hopefully this transition will be over soon and the 'sun' will shine once again. For now, we have to make the best of it.

Gavin is my biggest concern right now. These stomach aches which are now only happening when he has school have me thinking back to a darker time in my own life when I felt the same way. Thankfully there are so many more options for him and Craig and I, that we are bound to find something to help him cope with his emotions...eventually. Linda from The Healing Place is going to work with him to see if there is anything she can do. Craig is also very busy looking into therapy for him and Gavin.

I am so thankful that Craig is willing to help me and willing to do whatever it takes for the benefit of our son. I see parents all the time thinking that things will get better on their own and they end up getting worse as time goes on. I see this in adults too. There are so many who continue to walk the same path waiting for something to change but it has to come from within. You have to search your heart and ask God to lead you to where you should be. It is then that the answers will come. Search, ask, communicate with others. Take a risk or even a 'leap of faith'. Nicole at the shelter reminded me of a fortune cookie that I once received that said "If you always do what you've always done, you'll always get what you've always gotten." To me it means if you are unhappy, stop complaining about it and change the situation. If you continue to live life the way you have, nothing will change. Life will be a HUGE circle of events which may be different but you will end up feeling the same way. Step out of your life and take a look inside. Do you see a pattern?

I pray for Brad and I pray for Gavin every single day. I want Brad to find what his heart desires in hopes that it leads him back to the people who care about him most. I pray that he gets the help he needs so that his pattern in life does not continue. I want him to be truly happy. I pray that Gavin learns the skills that he lacks to cope with stress and anxiety. I pray he finds peace within. I want him to be a kid....a happy kid. One that finds joy in the little things in life as his sister does. I pray that God gives Craig and I the education and the patience that we lack to cope with Gavin during this time.

I have seen many people change their ways for the better, me included. Shawn has never been so positive and motivated like he is now. I am so thankful for his sister and the relationship we have created over the past two years. Although she continues to thank me for Shawn's complete turn around, I know that Shawn had to find himself again on his own. My prayers have been answered.

What I am thankful for today:
God as my rock
my friends who continue to support me and love me for who I am
my family
my children
my pets
The Center
Linda and her gift of healing
patience
the power of prayer
time to myself (which is extremely rare but well appreciated!)
the power to change into someone better than who I was
the energy to exercise
smiles
Shawn who continues to amaze me every single day
strength and courage to try new things and take 'leaps of faith'
the power of a positive mind
Dwayne for always smiling and making me realize that life is good
therapy (which some people do not admit they need but I wish they would LOL!)
the sunshine
flowers starting to bud!! WHAA HOO!
my mom for expressing her love for me and how proud she is of who I have become.
my dad for teaching me my work ethic and my love for helping others.
coffee
cheesecake
dinner with Linda and Bob on Sunday
time with my niece and nephew
Clara telling me every time she sees me that she loves me.
KNECT
running, which I have actually grown to love
PartyLite candles
sleep
my health
the health of my loved ones
my store
creativity
my teachers
my customers
the simple things in life
laughter
love

Dwayne

2011-03-15T19:46:00.000-04:00

A couple of months ago I met a new trainer at the gym named Dwayne. He started bringing his children into childcare so that he could fulfill appointments with members. We got to talking and he so graciously offered to work out with me since I am not at a point in my life where I can afford to have him be my personal trainer. Although we have only had one round of working out together, I highly look forward to working out with him again. Ya know how you just click with a person? Well, something about Dwayne clicked with me. He is full of energy, full of positivity, full of life. Even on a day where he may not feel so wonderful, he is still smiling. I could not stop feeling that God made us cross paths with each other for a reason.

One day Dwayne just handed me his business card with a blog address on the back. It took me a few weeks to actually take the time to look it up. Today I took the time. My mouth dropped. Not only does he write amazing poetry but he looks at life the way I am trying to. I cannot get over his positive attitude and outlook on life. He is a wonderful person for someone like me to be around. When I have my down moments, I now feel like I can still smile without it being fake or a struggle. Dwayne doesn't know yet that I read his poems. I will be seeing him on Thursday. I cannot wait to tell him that he is an inspiration to me. God does bless us with the people we need to live our lives to the fullest potential.
Here is one of Dwayne's poems:

""Starving your opposition"

Do not bury your head in the sand
Missing the mystic sunset
Where the ocean and sky mate
Producing the beauty of night fall
Let go of that load keeping you down
Rise as mist from the dew
Laying your head on the winds
Evaporate into your new beginning
Retract the cautious zipper restraining your lips
You are an expression of all that was, is, and will be
Bite your tongue no more
Accept yourself and express you unique image
Shake free from the dust on your shoulders
Dressing your wounded dreams
Purpose brings many battles to your feet
Stand ready with your sword of confidence and shield of wisdom
Wipe dry your tired eyes
Visualize the path of your life
See my faith in your character
Open up to all you must face
When standing at that fork in the road
Be not afraid of your decision
Knife through your path
Catering to all that hunger for your enlightened meal
Break bread with many
Wait on those who are slow to reach the starting line
Strive to eat well
While continuously starving your opposition

What I am thankful for today:
God blessing me with positive people
my jobs
my friends
my family
a great dinner tonight
Heather M trying to make me acknowledge the good in myself when I may not see it.
my kids laughter
Chloe and Diego actually sitting on my lap together (and not fighting!)
scrapbooking
Rachel celebrating her 40th birthday today!!
my Jamiers
Erika for being the best business partner ever
Zumba and Therapy Wednesdays with Jennifer
Shawn
The Biggest Loser
laughter
Dwayne
life lessons
new bath towels
the sunshine
Spring
longer hours of daylight!
Brent and Brad (one day I will pee myself laughing because of them)
clean laundry
all the birthday celebrations in my family this month
my teachers
my customers
coffee
money
my health
the health of my loved ones
everlasting love
peace

Chances Are - Scrapping the Music Challenge

2011-03-06T19:29:00.000-05:00

I had this picture that I knew was going to have to be scrapped. The picture is of Squeaky (the white cat) and Alice (in the frame), two of my favorite cats at The Center for Animal Health and Welfare. One day looking at my Home page of Facebook I noticed that The Center posted that Alice was adopted. Although I wish my first reaction would have been excitement that one of my favorite kitties finally had a home, I started to cry. I realized that I probably would never see her again and it made me very sad. Volunteering there as much as my kids and I do does make it hard not to get attached to certain animals. My 4 year old surprises people by knowing a lot of shelter cats by name. There are over 400 cats housed at that shelter.

Alice and I grew fond of each other the very first day we met. She was brought in with 5 other cats that looked just like her. They were rescued out of a hoarders home. Alice was not expected to live given the condition she was in when they found her. Most of her siblings did pass away. Alice is a little fighter. She reminds me of my Chloe which I have at home. This could be another reason I bonded with her. Squeaky is 18 years old. He seemed to bond with Alice when she came in. The two of them would be seen laying next to each other pretty often. It was as if they were waiting for me to come in.

When Alice was adopted, I went to the shelter telling myself that I had to be happy for Alice but still felt an emptiness when I arrived. My friend Christine, another volunteer at the shelter,. was so kind to leave this framed picture of Alice for me at the desk. Well of course I lost it. After composing myself and going in to the room where Squeaky was, I set this picture on the floor so that I could take some pictures. Squeaky walked right over to it and laid down to stare at the picture. I could not believe my eyes. Even Wendy the Vice President of the shelter took some pictures of the scene.

Now, Alice finds herself back at the shelter and Squeaky has been adopted. I was so happy to know that Squeaky and his sister Snowball (she was 20), will live out their senior years in a home together. As for Alice, her and I had a chat that she needs to stop doing this to me. This was her second time being adopted then brought back. Unfortunately some people do not give the animals much time to adjust to their new homes. Alice needs more than a few days to adjust. For now, I enjoy going in to see my Alice. And, she always welcomes me with her fluffy fur and her one little fang.

Because this song had the line, 'Chances are we'll find two destinations' I thought because Alice and Squeaky will not end up together, I thought it was perfect.

Here is what was used:
Close to My Heart Wings Paper Pack
Close to My Heart Wings StickEase
Stampin Up! Scalloped Punch (flowers)
Stampin Up! Champagne Glitter Paint
Cricut Machine and Cartridge Accent Essentials
Lace

A Great Way To Lose Weight....LOL!

2011-03-04T19:36:00.000-05:00

Most of you know I have been stuck in my house with sick kids and being under the weather myself. Well after 4 days of it I was losing my mind. So, why not lose weight?

I got to work yesterday, and was actually looking forward to it. I had two children in childcare, Braughnna and Logan. Brent comes in and flies open the door singing, "GOOD MORNING, GOOD MORNING! I brought breakfast!" Laughing, I of course asked what he brought. He brought in these HUGE bagels that were made at a Bagel place in the Westgate Mall. When the children left, I made myself a bagel noticing that they resembled breasts...LOL! So, calling to Brent I held them up to my chest and he, Nick and Heather started cracking up. Everyone could tell I was back to my old self.

After 3 hours of cleaning I decided to run on the treadmill. What made me laugh was what I was picturing in my head. I was recalling my week of children arguing over the TV, being crabby, sick, tired and I found myself running faster. It was as if I was running away from the crappy week with them. The more I thought about it the more energy I had. I was able to run for 25 minutes without thinking for one second, "this is killing me." So, I turned a crappy week into a great workout. And I totally felt 100% better. Today, I reflect on my good day yesterday since I am once again home with sick children. Gavin is recovering but Makenna has yet another fever. And me, well my rear end HURTS but it is just a reminder of how easy it was for me to run and run and run yesterday. I got on the scale yesterday and I lost another pound and a half and am now 131!! YAY! So what I am thankful for today.....

losing weight
the ability to run
my pets
The Center for Animal Health and Welfare
my friends
my family
creativity
laughter
my health
the health of my loved ones
PartyLite shows and products
hot showers
music
time to myself
sleep
adult time at Jennifer's
coffee
clean laundry
a nice walk with Diego today
upcoming classes at the store
scrapbook challenges
spring on the way
money
love

Funk Time

2011-02-28T18:54:00.000-05:00

What to write... Do I even want to write? Maybe writing will help me get things off my chest without disrupting someone elses peace. Everyone knows I do not like to complain. I try very very hard to keep things to myself. What is the sense of making someone else feel like crap just because I do? LOL!

I am calling this my 'funk time'. It has been a very long time since I have felt this way. Not only has everyone in my family shared endless germs with each other but the germs do not seem to stay away, at least for very long. Both of my kids are sick again. And, I am still what Ann calls 'snotalicious' going on my 4th week. To sum it up I am tired. Because things at the gym are hectic right now, I went to work probably way to soon after being sick. Heather really needs all the help she can get. And I really do not want to see her even more crazy at work than she already is. I did take off tomorrow to be with my children. Linda says, "Make it a mental health day for yourself." My response.."HECK YES!" Ann is covering for me, thankfully.

I feel like things are hitting me from all directions lately. At least my store is going extremely well even though I feel very overwhelmed with all the responsibilities at times. I do love it and would not give it up for the world. Every week we get at least 2 new customers.

The gym, well it is a touchy subject right now. A very dear friend of mine may lose his job due to a bad decision. Makenna actually cried when I told her. I cried too. Just the other day I was thinking about how blessed I am that God brought into my life so many people who make me laugh and feel so good. Then for this to happen just makes me sad. At this moment I have no idea what will happen. Only time will tell.

Craig is having major issues with Gavin which ended up involving me last week. It was the worst situation between Gavin and Craig that has ever happened. Although things are definitely not where they should be with the two of them, I think they are on the right path. However, hearing my son cry himself to sleep for 3 hours was heartbreaking.

Today at work I actually spent the day alone. I cleaned the free cycling room which took me well over an hour and a half. No matter how much I prayed during that time and no matter what I did to try to get myself out of this funk, nothing seemed to work. All I wanted to do was come home. Being there right now is just so different.

Tomorrow my goal is to rest. I am not going to do anything, for the first time ever! LOL! I could enter some more challenges but I think I need the day to just 'be'. It is said that God communicates with us the most during quiet time. Maybe He is trying to tell me something that I just cannot hear?

What I am thankful for today:
time
money
friendship
sunshine
laughter
love
advil
hot showers
music
scrapbooking challenges
The Center
the bowl-a-thon
movies
sleep
my children
my pets
my friends
my family
spring being only 1 month away

Wide Open Spaces STMC

2011-02-26T11:40:00.000-05:00

Most of you who have scrapbooked with me or have seen my layouts know that I am a very 'shabby' scrapbooker. I get made fun of for my love of ink, razor blades, tearing and even singeing my paper. Because I love the details of distressing it takes me a long time to create one page. Recently I hosted a Close to My Heart workshop at my store. Being unfamiliar with their products, I wanted to try everything! The free stuff is a bonus as well. With the hostess credit I was able to get a new paper pack called Wings. I fell in love with it the moment that my friend Jennifer showed it to me. She knew with the butterflies, the colors and the already distressed look to this line that I would want it. I also was able to get CTMH's StickEase stickers to go with the paper.

Scrappin The Music Challenge is "Wide Open Spaces" this time around. And, two weeks ago my daughter roller skated for the very first time. Receiving this new paper, having a great picture and a song to go along with everything made me HAVE to enter this challenge. It took me 3 hours to create this page partially because at our PJ Crop last night we were out of power for the first hour. While the candles helped, I kept misplacing things. Trying to find everything with little light was frustrating but all 7 of us made the best of the situation and ended up having a blast. Makenna saw this layout this morning and gasped as her eyes lit up. She loved it.

The products used in this layout are:
CTMH Wings Paper Pack
CTMH StickEase Wings
CTMH Paper Piercer
Stampin Up Butterfly Punch, Scalloped Punch, & Flower Punch (retired)
Stampin Up ink; Pear Pizzazz & Bravo Burgandy
CuttleBug
Cricut Machine
Random supplies purchased at a yard sale.

Wish me luck!

My Little Yellow Bike Sketch Challenge

2011-02-23T22:49:00.000-05:00

I just entered a contest for Little Yellow Bike. I fell in love with the Twig collection as soon as I saw it. The colors, the designs...I love it all. Of course when I saw the challenge on facebook, I had to enter it. Wish me luck!

Starting back up with the Scrapbooking Challenges

2011-02-06T20:46:00.000-05:00

I cannot tell you the last time I entered any challenge. However, my goal this new year was to start again. It gets me to accomplish some scrapbooking with a little bit of competition involved. I seriously have no idea how the judges pick since all of the creativity is amazing from everyone who enters.

Most people are watching the Super Bowl right now but I am watching Ghost Hunters and listening to my daughter cough in her sleep. Everyone in my house has been sick and it seems like the recovery is taking so long that, before anyone recovers fully one of us has caught something else. It was nice to be out of the house today working at my store. We had great turn outs for both classes. Now I am relaxing on the couch wondering what tomorrow will bring. Will I be going to work or staying home again with a sick child? I missed work all of last week. Honestly, I want to go to work.

Hopefully those engaged in football, drinking beer and stuffing their faces with snacks are having fun. I much rather be right here where I am being amazed at Jason's findings on Ghost Hunters instead.

What I am thankful for today:
my store
scrapbooking challenges
my health
the health of my loved ones
my pets
laughter
warm blankets
my friends
quiet
time
love
sunshine
rainbows
cardinals
family
my children
sleep
coffee
water
my neighbors
Shelley
Jennifer G
Erika
my sister-in-law
hope
faith
forgiveness

The Feeling of Being Independent

2011-02-03T17:21:00.000-05:00

Sitting on the couch for the third day has me extremely stir crazy. So I have decided in between cat naps, I will write out my wish list (wish list for life), blog some more, and do a lot of research on the web.

I realized that while I was married, there was a lot of responsibilities that I no longer had, besides cleaning, cooking and taking care of the kids. Ya I know so back in the 50's, right? Everything was together and Jeremy did everything online so I didn't have to deal with it. On my own I had to start over getting things in my name, getting things on my own and it was a very scary thought. Never thought I depended that much on someone to help take care of me and my life. It amazes me how one may take for granted the help of others. Believe me, I was always grateful but maybe not as grateful as I should have been.

In the last few weeks I have been researching life insurance, car insurance, health insurance and more. It has been draining but I am so happy that I am doing it on my own. This is the first time that I didn't need help gathering the stuff I needed for the taxes for my business. What a sense of accomplishment for me. I can do this myself and I will. It was nice to pay for my own car insurance after the endless forms I filled out to get quotes. And after years of having Jeremy pay for everything, it is nice to be able to do things for myself.

Many ask me how I keep my life together with all that I do. My response is, "I just don't think about it and just do it." I also make a point try to keep a regular schedule: Thursday nights is volunteer night at the shelter, I work every weekend at the store, Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays are committed to the gym. During whatever free time I have I am working on the website for the store, cleaning my house, posting classes on facebook and meetup.com, doing laundry, running my kids around, cooking, playing with the kids, and so on. I make it work. Thankfully I have a great network of people who are willing to help me with the kids if I have to be at the gym.

Although I am busy, it makes me a better mom. I enjoy the time I get with my children even more than I did when I wasn't as busy. I feel good about myself because I am being productive, working for what I want and need to live, without being dependent on someone else. I feel very blessed to be able to have my hobby as my career and work in a gym which enables me to bring my kids, have a free membership and work with some amazing people. If you write out what you want and start doing the things you have to do to get there, things fall into place.

I may not be working my dream job but I am well on my way. Things will happen when they are meant to happen. But you have to get going to get anywhere. Even if you are on the right track, you will get run over if you just sit there.

Pray to God that he leads you to where you need to be. Commit to him and all your plans will succeed.

What I am thankful for today:

being indepentent
my Chloe who has been nursing me since I got sick
quality time
money
friendship
my health
the health of my family and friends
true blessings
confidence
hope
faith
stength
awareness
simplicity
laughter
Rachel for making me laugh today
Diane for getting Makenna to school
Jennifer G, Erika and mom checking up on me today
my store
creativity
the gym
Dwayne for working out with me
my family
love
the sunshine
clean laundry
new books
The Center
Christine for being such a wonderful person
my pets
Cheryl for being so wonderful with Makenna
Shawn
all the wonderful people who are involved with my store
contentment
Jeremy for being such a good daddy
smiles
the power of prayer
church
my life

The Role of 'Nurse'

2011-02-02T08:52:00.000-05:00

Today's motivation is 0. Taking care of two sick kids with another sick adult in the house is very exhausting. I seriously cannot count the number of loads of laundry I have done in the past 3 days. And, it isn't over yet. When you sign up to be a mother you forget about all the other 'jobs' you have, nurse being one of them. I love my children more than anything and would do anything for them. However, they have taught me that being a nurse full time is not for me. I have a huge respect for anyone that works in the health field.

So for all you moms (and dad's), may God grace you with His presence when you are holding your nose, trying to console your sick child as their head hangs over the trash can or toilet. May you find comfort in the clean laundry, knowing that the puke smell that seems to linger in your nose will eventually go away. Be thankful for flat ginger ale, dry toast and most of all Lysol. Be thankful that these sicknesses usually only last for 24 hours, per child. Remember that your child is so thankful they have you to take care of them and that the bond you are creating will last a lifetime.

What I am thankful for today:
my health
my kids on the road to recovery
Lysol
clean laundry
being a mommy
my children
my pets
hot showers
The Biggest Loser
patience
understanding
music
vitamins
coffee
creativity
my jobs
money
sleep
motivation
laughter
friends
family
the sunshine
love

Forgiveness & Letting Go

2011-01-21T09:33:00.000-05:00

Today I am writing about forgiveness. Why? Because I think I finally figured out how and why this is so important. Life throws us curve balls, and some are so hard to bounce back from. The good news is that we will. Getting there is what we are all concerned about. How long will it take? What will I have to go through to get to where I want to be? I have asked myself these questions continuously. I've prayed numerous times for God to take the weight off my shoulders and surround me with His presence. Sometimes it just doesn't feel like it is enough. What I have come to understand is the weight was something I had to let go of. And, I do realize why I wasn't letting go.

When we are hurt, it takes a lot to get over the anger, frustration, and pain. It takes time to heal. We will not heal if we do not forgive. Holding on to anger and frustration doesn't hurt anyone but ourselves. The people involved in the situations that hurt us are still living their lives not affected by our feelings at all. Yet, we do not want to forgive. For me, forgiving someone who hurt me felt like giving them permission to hurt me again. Or like saying, "what you did was ok." However that is not how it is. Forgiving someone is letting go of the pain. Do I have to keep that person close to me? No.

God wants us to forgive and let go. He will help us if we ask. If we want to move on to a better life, we have to close the doors from the past in the right way. God has taken the people who hurt me out of my life without me having to have confrontation with them. They were put in my life for a reason though. There was a lesson to be learned. And more than ever, I am actually thankful for those people who hurt me. If it wasn't for them or the situation, I would not be the person I am now. I also know that if I would have not forgiven them, I would not have become who I want to be.

The weight has been lifted because I chose to let go. Again, we are only hurting ourselves by not forgiving. I feel free, finally.

If you feel stuck, maybe there is a person or situation you have not forgiven. Remember Jesus forgave Judas for betraying him even though it lead to Jesus being crucified. Although Jesus knew that this was his destiny, could any of you have forgiven Judas? We may not know our future, but everything happens for a reason. Forgiveness is the key to living with a free spirit. If God can forgive us from our sins, we can surely forgive those who sin against us.

"Count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience." James 1:2-3

"No eye has seen, no ear has heard, and no mind has imagined what God has prepared for those who love Him." 1 Corinthians 2:9

What I am thankful for today:
A snow day with my children
Love
forgiveness and knowing the changes it can bring into our lives
The Center
furbabies, God creations to show us unconditional love
Hope
my friends
my store
my family
laughter
Shawn
the power of prayer
the sunshine
rainbows
signs from my loved ones
coffee
PartyLite
chocolate
my customers
my teachers
God
life

A new door

2011-01-10T14:00:00.001-05:00

In the process of moving my store, I had the guilt of leaving my landlord, a family friend with an empty run down building and no income coming in on the property. Funny how when we close a door, we still feel that hesitation to proceed to open a new one. Obviously I was making this much harder on myself than I needed to. Looking for a definite sign that I needed to move on that never seemed to hit me...at least hard enough. Apparently the lack of parking, steps, condition of my current building and immense electric bills were not a big enough sign. LOL! Though there were a lot of issues in the building I started in, I found so much appreciation to use it in order to get started. And, once I focused on the things I was appreciative about, my signs to move on started coming.

So, I opened a new door. The new door to my store opened for the first time to customers on Jan. 8th. Little did I know that so many people knew who I was and wanted to come into my store but would not enter the other building because of it's condition. Although no one seemed to complain, which I am glad they didn't, I feel badly that it took this long for them to actually come in and experience my happy place with me.

Time is what it is though. We all want to open new doors but it has to be the right time. We may never know when that is. Keeping the faith, the patience, the appreciation for what I had and a lot of prayers are what helped me get to where I am. Never did I give up. Came close once.....but thanks to friends bringing me back to reality, I know where I want to be and realize that the frustration of getting here was just weighing me down. I took a little over a year to take a good hard look of who I was, who I became, what I wanted and who I wanted in my life. I am exactly where I want to be. I live for me, which makes me a better mom, friend, daughter, girlfriend, and person all around. Things fall into place when they are meant to...when you are in the right frame of mind and being eternally grateful.

Do you know where you want to be? Do you know who you want to be? Once you know, you at least have an idea of where to start and what to start praying for. God brought Erika into my life at a moment of not knowing how I was going to achieve the next step to my dreams. God brought Shelley into my life so that Erika and I could take the steps together, when we were ready. God surrounds me with positive people, people I need right now to help me grow; in business, in love, in appreciation, in life. I did feel stuck for a long time but I never gave up hope. If you have a good network of friends, true honest friends, they will never let you fall.....at least far. We all have to fall sometimes, it is getting back up that matters.

What I am thankful for today:
my friends who I cannot thank enough for helping me become who I am
my family
my children who I hope I can be a good example for
Faith, because without it there is no hope
God who knows what is best for us and will answer prayers if they are in our best interest
my new store and customers
my new landlords who are amazing
my creative spark coming back
heat being off in my store and it is still nice and toasty
my pets who comfort me
The Center, my other Happy Place
the ability to stand up in front of everyone at church on Sunday to perform the service without puking or fainting.
time
being in control of my life and what I want to do
music
Shawn who supports me no matter what and lets me be me
laughter, we laughed so hard this weekend
love
the gym
the new adventure with my store
being 100% completely happy and content
knowing that we can achieve anything that we put our mind too
my life

The Best Gifts of Christmas

2010-12-10T17:33:00.000-05:00

Christmas to me is a lot more than just presents, cookies, Christmas trees, Christmas music and so on. To me Christmas is a lot of things that cannot be wrapped, measured or weighed. Instead of creating my thankful list today, I am going to create my list of what is really important to me at Christmas. Of course I am eternally grateful for everything on it.

1. time with family and friends
2. the smell of the season; cookies baking, the tree, holiday candles burning, etc.
3. the smiles on children, especially my own when the see a beautiful Christmas tree, when they 'purchase' or handmake a gift for their loved ones, when Frosty the Snowman is on TV, when they are sprinkling cut out cookies with tons of colored sugar, when they sing aloud the songs of the season.
4. hosting parties and laughing with the girls, drinking wine, trying on jewelry, smelling candles, playing games and eating way too many sweets.
5. handmaking Christmas cards
6. the kids running down the stairs to see what Santa brought
7. candle light service at church on Christmas Eve
8. memories of when I was a child at Christmas
9. hot chocolate with marshmallows and maybe even a little Baily's
10. Makenna talking about how it will soon be Jesus birthday and her excitement being Mary in her school play.
11. baking cookies with Makenna
12. my mom and She-She baking Christmas cookies every year with the kids.
13. giving my mom an early Christmas present every Christmas Eve.
14. all the holiday children's movies.
15. giving to charities, homeless shelters and anyone less fortunate than myself.
16. the excitement of the kids when they open their advent calendars every morning from my mom. They play a guessing game and try to guess what it is.
17. red nail polish on my toes
18. Christmas Books; The Grinch, The Polar Express, The Night Before Christmas and more.
19. nativities
20. Amy Grant and Michael W. Smith's Christmas CDs
21. sea shells hanging on the Christmas tree with a starfish on top.
22. handmade gifts
23. two red cardinals
24. going shopping with my dad
25. enjoying my dads birthday right before Christmas
26. grateful people
27. candy canes, which I do not eat...LOL!
28. Moose Munch which I will hopefully get this year in my stocking...LOL!
29. the trill of finding the perfect gift.
30. the thrill of finding a GREAT sale!
31. decorating the tree with the kids.
32. Makenna in her Christmas dress.....(dresses)
33. pictures of the kids and the family together.
34. decorating the house.
35. holiday traditions.
36. Chloe thinking the tree is hers.
37. stockings being hung.
38. Silent Night
39. candles
40. the birth of our Savior.
41. being blessed with the people I have in my life.
42. being truly grateful for all that I have.
43. signs from above.

There are so many more....but I am out of time. Dinner needs to be made, laundry needs to be switched over, presents should be wrapped, and PartyLite should be gone through. I am very excited about tomorrow night with our Christmas party at work. I am so thankful for everyone who has helped make this past year a wonderful year. Blessings to all.

A Time I will Never Forget

2010-11-25T08:06:00.000-05:00

During my trying teenage years, back in the mid to later 80's times were not as they are now. However, they were similar with the bullying, the peer pressure, drugs, alcohol, kids skipping school, etc. What do kids do today to stay away from all the negativity?

Fortunately for me, my church had a wonderful group of kids that was brought together by a woman named Kim. We formed a group called Animation. Fortunately my parents made me spend time at my church in order to become a part of this group. Animation was a group of about 15-20 children ages ranging from 14-18. We had fellowship, spent time on retreats, went to concerts, but mostly spent time rehearsing for plays that were written and choreographed by Kim. There were probably about 4 or 5 different plays, 2 in which I was in. Druzba and Smashed were the ones I was in. Druzba is the one I do not remember as well. I do remember playing an angel at one point and that the play was based in Russia at Christmas time.

Smashed is the one I remember most. I remember the relationships that Kim had paired us up in. One person was handicap, I was in a relationship with someone much older than me, and it was to show that God accepts everyone in any condition and we should too. I remember one of the cast members played the part of an alcoholic who got into a car accident from drunk driving and killed a best friend. He wanted to turn to the devil. With the help of all of his friends supporting him during this tragic time, he found God. He became sober and healed from his tragic loss.

Kim now has a Christan Drama School in New Jersey. It is amazing to me to know that Animation is what started her on the road to her lifetime career. Although she was not with us last night, I know she was there in spirit.

Talking with everyone last night I finally had the chance to tell them what they did for me. It was each of them that kept me walking in God's light. It was them that helped me to make the right decisions and gave me the support I needed that I wasn't getting from the kids at school. It was Animation who made me feel accepted in a time where school did not. They loved me for who I was whether or not I had the in style clothing, the perfect hair (which God knows I didn't,,,,LOL!), the great grades, etc. Never once did I turn to drugs or alcohol or feel the need to skip school to be cool. I may have 'run away from home' a few times in the heat of a fight with my mom, but I always had Animation to run home to. I thank God for them. I thank God for giving us the time last night to be together once more.

You all know how I am about signs from the other side. We walked into the living room with intentions of getting pictures taken together. On the TV was a music channel. As soon as I turned the corner to go into the room, I hear Amy Grant. Her song Angels Watching Over Me was on. We immediately turned it up, started singing and dancing. I smiled to myself knowing that we were all where we were supposed to be. Our angles had brought us together and were celebrating with us the miracle of our never ending friendship.

What I am thankful for today:
Animation
my friends
my family
my kids
understanding
loyalty
laughter
memories
acceptance
love
my pets
The Center
the sunshine
rainbows
energy
time
music
Amy Grant
scrapbooking
my health
the health of my loved ones
my dad feeling better
Shawn
my bed
my home
my jeep
my store
full classes
heat
every minute I get to spend with the ones I love
A wondeful Thanksgiving day

Ralph Stover Park & An Amazing Day

2010-11-20T11:19:00.000-05:00

Here I am at work with 100000000000 things I should be doing instead of sitting here blogging BUT.....

Yesterday was amazing and I just had to write about it. Jennifer G took Makenna for most part of the day to play with Jessica so that Shawn and I could spend the day together for his birthday. Knowing my financial situation doesn't allow me much freedom right now, I made it clear that we had to be creative for his birthday this year. I have to laugh because he is such a laid back person who honestly lives happily with very little material things....so why I am so worried that I cannot spend money on him? I don't know.

A few days before his birthday he called me to tell me that he knows what he wants. All he wanted was to spend the day with me. Awww.... He knew that I had never visited Ralph Stover Park before and one thing we really enjoy together is hiking. We hiked for an hour and a half up and down this gorgeous mountain with a creek running at the bottom. He fished for a little but didn't get any bites. I managed to get some pictures which showed how high we were and some turkey buzzards that were in a tree near by. Although there was very little conversation we connected so much through the beauty of the surrounding nature.

On the way home we were starving. We stopped at this cute little restaurant called the Cactus Grill. We ate dinner in front of a window with a great view of the sunset. My order was Chicken & Spinach Ravioli which was to die for! When we arrived back at his house we ate chocolate cake and ice cream watching a marathon of the show The Haunted. Perfect ending to a great day....at least for us.

Many people do not know this but rainbows are a sign to me which meaning is that I am exactly where I am supposed to be at that moment. Music fits in with that as well. On our way to Ralph Stover, I saw about 3 different rainbows caused by reflections of the sun....they were not actually in the sky. I had to laugh to myself because I felt like I was were I needed to be. At Shelleys a couple of weeks ago, I walked into her home to see rainbows all over her wall, all created by a prism she had in her kitchen window. It actually took my breath away since Shelley and I both agree that God brought us together. When sitting having tea, Makenna looked up at Shelley and laughed. She said, "Shelley, you have a rainbow on your forehead!" I then told Shelley the meaning that rainbows have in my life. She smiled and mentioned that she felt that she was where she was supposed to be as well.

Do you have a sign? Think of one. It can be anything with any meaning. It will help you to realize that the path you are on is the right path, the one that God has chosen for you. I feel a sense of comfort when I see my rainbows. The last rainbow I saw in the sky was when I was on my way home from taking Gavin to the dentist. That horrifying trip that drained all of us to no end. The assistant told me how good I was and how patient I was with Gavin which was nice to hear when you doubting yourself....then to walk out and that rainbow be the first thing I see. I knew that God was smiling down on me letting me know everything will be alright. I was exactly where I was supposed to be, enduring an experience with Gavin which will help both of us grow. No one knows why we have to go through certain things....but there is something to learn from everything we encounter.

What I am thankful for today:
Jennifer G for taking Makenna for the day
Time spend with Shawn
My kids
My Pets
My friends
Quality time
Ralph Stover Park
Nature
Rainbows
Love
Laughter
Good food
Hot Tea
Chocolate cake
Appreciation
Silence
Dinner at church tonight
My PartyLite Party
The Secret Woman's Club tomorrow!!
Heat
My winter coat
Music
Full classes
My store
God
Answered prayers
Faith
My strength
My confidence
Motivation
Energy
My health
Knowing I am right where I should be

Today & Tomorrow

2010-11-13T21:59:00.000-05:00

Today was a great day. A woman from Lehigh Valley Marketplace Magazine came in and interviewed me. She is doing an article on Scrapbooking 101 and Googled scrapbooking stores near Easton and mine was one of the first to pop up! I know this will get me some great exposure. And, the woman is getting some friends together to take a class! YAY! Once she heard we do birthday parties, she instantly brought up her daughter. Potential birthday party scheduled? I think so!!

My Stampin Up workshop went very well. 3 new customers were in today. Each of them attended the vendor fair last weekend. With my hostes credit I am getting the stuff I need to make my Christmas Cards!!

Tonight Jeremy is out and I am already in bed at 9:30pm. Rooti kept me up last night....no wonder why she fell asleep with Makenna over an hour ago. Rooti is Cheryl's poodle. She is extremely cute...personality and all. I am now watching The Cutest Cat on Animal Planet. Makes me want to go to the shelter..LOL!

I am looking forward to church tomorrow. Lately I swear the sermons are meant for me. It amazes me that God puts us exactly where we need to be. Every week I walk out of there feeling confident and very relaxed. Never would I ever have thought that I would enjoy church so much, I am glad God lead me to New Jerusalem. The older Youth Group and I are planning on performing the church service on the 19th of December if anyone would like to come. We are going to base it on what we learned at the Listen to Jesus Retreat over the summer.

What I am thankful for today:
my children
my dads health
my friends
my family
my pets
my faith in God
water
candles
the shelter
Stampin Up free products!
new customers
loyal customers
my store
music
a great day tomorrow
time
healing
getting Christmas cards made
love
money
The Secret
Shawn
rainbows
flowers
hot tea
coffee
brownies
the gym
hope
laughter
girly time
my home

Date Night and Stuff

2010-11-07T19:50:00.000-05:00

Last night Shawn and I went on our first official date, TGI Fridays for dinner. Man is that Jack Daniel's chicken ROCKIN! Then the specialty drink was a Mud Slide.....I was all over that for dessert. We learned so much about each other because we were not consumed by the TV. It was nice to get out and actually enjoy food and conversation for a change. Love that they have a Gluten free menu. He was able to order almost everything that he would have on the regular menu.

The Vendor Fair was awesome yesterday. It was so nice to meet new people who seemed to be so excited about the store. And, I love my new purse. Look out ladies, a purse party is coming in the future!

As I look back I remember all the times that I had game night at my house. It had to be at least once a month. Sometimes we had 10-15 girls here. What made me get away from that? I really cannot put my finger on it. All I know is that I am so excited about getting back into it. You never realize how much your spirit feels healed when you laugh with friends.

It has been a long time since I have been sick. Lately I have been feeling tired...just a little. So I upped my vitamins and rest when I feel my body needs it. Yes, I actually sit down Diane. LOL! No, I do not nap. A lot of people including my kids have been sick lately. How am I staying away from it? It must be The Secret. I always picture myself healthy and always say how thankful I am for my health. This doesn't mean that I will never get sick again, but it has kept me healthy so far. With this time change, who knows what will happen. I was up at 5am this morning and feel ready for bed now, it's 7:40pm. Sleep is a huge factor in staying healthy. I am so thankful that my body keeps me sleeping soundly for 6-7 hours a night. I know this helps.

I am not sure what tonight has in store for me. Maybe some Bridezilla and cuddling with Mojo? I do know that I will not be awake late. Tomorrow is gym time. Maybe I can even hit the shelter. My little Birdy was adopted so I may be a little misty eyed when I go in the one room. At least my Alice is still there to greet me. Not sure what I will do if she is adopted. ) : Don't get me wrong, I am happy for them. It is very bittersweet. You fall in love with animals hoping that they find homes. But you miss them like crazy when they are gone. 'sigh'

What I am thankful for today:
the sermon at church this morning
Alice
my kids
my family
my friends
the shelter
quiet time
dinner with Shawn
Jack Daniels chicken and Mudslides
a warm bed
laughter
confidence
smiles
games
girls nights
my purse
vendor fairs
my pets
working out with Jennifer
Heather being a great friend and boss
my jobs
brownies
hoodies
peace
healing
prayer
money
my jeep
my store
classes
learning something new every day
creativity
imagination
hope
faith
believing in miracles
heat
Stampin Up!
Shawn
the beach
sleep
my health
ghost tours

Productive Week

2010-11-05T17:12:00.000-04:00

What a week! It has been extremely productive and positive. I have been working extra hours at the gym, working out again, working at Sally's house to earn extra money, helping out at The Center, re-connecting with people and getting prepared for the Vendor Fair tomorrow in Quakertown. I realized that I enjoy cleaning and gardening when I am helping someone out and they are paying me...LOL! Bills are crazy right now with the store so all the extra income I can get is worth it. Besides it is Shawn's birthday coming up soon.

It feels good to work out. Thank you Jennifer for being my motivation (chocolate helps...LOL!). I have been told in the last couple of weeks by a few people that it looks like I have lost weight. YAY!! That gives me even more motivation to keep going!!

Shelley and I are working hand in hand to come up with a plan for a non-profit organization. We did find out that we can run it through my business. Erika and I are looking forward to this new venture with Shelley. Shelley is an amazing person. I am very blessed to know her.

It has been a great week. Good conversations with old friends really make a person realize where they need to be in life as well as where they came from. Rachel always reminds me of silly things we encountered years ago. She cracks me up. And Jamie is my soulmate so I really do not need to say anything more about that.

Although I am extremely busy.....now on the Shelter Cat and Pocket Pet committee at the shelter AND on the fundraising committe at church, I am starting to find a good balance. My kids and I are enjoying time at the shelter at night now which is good for Gavin since before he was unable to go. Things do have a way of working out. Patience is all we need. I know, easier said than done.

What I am thankful for today:
my life
my kids
time
the shelter
blending the things I love
girls night
my friends
my pets
Bliss chocolate
Logan (at the gym)
working out with Jennifer
my store
the vendor fair tomorrow
my health
the health of my loved ones
money
my future
finding Tetris on my phone (this could be bad)
laughter
love
french vanilla iced coffee
pizza (thank you Erika for dinner last night!)
a warm bed
Cheryl
Shawn
The Power

A Day to do Nothing?

2010-11-01T11:22:00.001-04:00

Taking a day to do nothing feels so wrong to me. But I have decided that today, besides working on my meetup site and scheduling classes on facebook, and doing laundry I am just not going to rush to do much of anything. I tried to work on my website and Go Daddy is just not working today. Maybe I will get up the motivation to work on my newsletter. Just wish I had a decent picture of my class on Thursday before I did that. We will see.

This cold weather has me in a funk. This usually happens to me, Miss Summer. LOL! Gavin and I had a great time at the shelter on Saturday. We did have an upsetting experience when we got to the lower building though. We were completely mauled by cats when we walked in. I mean they were jumping on us and holding on with all claws. Something was not right. After a few moments of giving them attention then looking around to see the issues...it was apparent that these cats had not been given any water. Gavin turned on the sink and 10 cats jumped in. One cat drank so much water and ended up throwing it all up because she drank too much too fast. I was disappointed that these cats were left this way. Expressing my concerns, I know this matter will be dealt with and right away. If I had more time I would get to the shelter more often to help out. I know how hard it must e to take care of 450 cats. Now if we could only make more people aware of how important it is to spay and neuter their pets!?!?!?! The shelter will do the surgery, get them up to date on shots, and microchip them for only $75. Much cheaper than the vet.

I have to say that I am happy that Halloween is over. I am highly looking forward to Thanksgiving. Not sure how that is panning out yet since Jeremy and my family are both hosting something that they would like us to attend.

I have so much I could write about but do not know where to start. So, I am closing.

What I am thankful for today:

my friends
my children
Shawn
my pets
the shelter
being on the Shelter Cat & Pocket Pet Committee at The Center for Animal Health & Welfare
inspirations
playing games with my kids
pumpkin seeds
my store
hot tea
coffee
twix (ate three this morning)
the gym (see above)
taking classes with Jennifer G
Thankful Thursdays
my Avon Fairy
Thanksgiving
clean laundry
money
hope
faith
laughter
love
church
God
the power of prayer

A Good Day and A Awesome Weekend to Come

2010-10-22T20:51:00.000-04:00

Today was such a good day! Makenna was feeling so much better by the early afternoon that Jen and I took her to The Center for Animal Health and Welfare. I love feeding the kittens! They meow like mad when they hear the cans being opened. We cleaned the rabbit cages which was funny because the one rabbit kept jumping back into his cage. Guess he didn't mind it being dirty. There have been lots of adoptions lately and it makes me so thrilled to know that these animals will have forever homes now. It is a bittersweet feeling though because we have established a bond with some of these cats and dogs. While I am happy that Alice and Birdy (two of my favorite felines) are still there, I know they would be happier in a home with someone who loves them. The thought of them leaving does make me sad though.

Tomorrow I am excited to teach a class at my store. It has been a while since I have taught one. I am highly looking forward to my Thankful Thursdays coming up in November. Jess Ballas has 9 people in her class so far!! I am so excited for her! Maybe some of them will stay for Jennifer's layout class!!??

Tomorrow night is what I am really looking forward too. I cannot wait to have most of my friends here with me at home. We are going to play games on the Wii and board games. Jennifer G is bringing calories in hopes that I go back to the gym with her this week...LOL! I have really missed going with Makenna being sick all week. Thankfully she is feeling better.

I am so thankful for my friends, so thankful for my furry friends and so thankful for my children. Makenna and I have had some wonderful bonding time this week. We read books, she helped me clean and cook, we played restaurant, and lots of other stuff. It was great! She really is a good kid, even when she isn't feeling well.

What I am thankful for today:
my friends....God am I lucky!
my kids
my pets
Birdy, Alice, Slipper, Ramona, Squeaky and all my other favorite felines
my health
chocolate
hot showers
fall
Makenna feeling better
Gavin getting good grades
quality time
my stationary bike (came in handy not being able to hit the gym)
an awesome weekend ahead
the parade
my classes
my customers
my store
heat
facebook
faith
loyalty
clean laundry
my home
my jeep
laughter
hope
love
music

Healing Once Again

2010-10-20T17:59:00.000-04:00

Just feeling like a huge scab was ripped off my life, I am preparing to heal once again. Why does life have to go the way it does sometimes? Why do we have to hurt others? Why do we have to be hurt? I know that we can only see our furture a few feet at a time. At this moment, I would like just one glimps of the entire picture. Maybe it would help me feel better, maybe it would give me more hope.

My mind and body got quickly pushed into protective mode. The one person I know would never hurt me, ended up feeling the brunt of my pain. It is like I am on Auto. I automaticly want to push people I care about away before they can hurt me. Shawn quickly reminded me that the fear of that is manifested in my own mind. He reminded me of how strong I am and how I chose to allow the hurt to continue or step on it like a scary spider and not allow it to get the best of me. While this is easier said than done, it is what I am going to try to do, squish it like the hairy, scary spider it is.

God is probably tired of hearing me cry and plead, "Take the pain away, keep me strong, give me the faith that I am lacking." In the middle of sobs I felt as though someone was hugging me, around my back. It was as if there were one or more presences trying to tell me I was not alone. While it made me feel a tiny bit better I was angry, sad, frustrated and still felt very alone. God was with me. I know he was. He was hearing me cry, he was trying to carry me through but I was too upset to let anything go. Here I am a couple of days later, feeling still the sting, but I feel better being reassured that I have tons of people who love and care about me. I have tons of people who would never hurt me, ever. It makes me see the light at the end of the tunnel. I may not have a clear path, but I am definitely ready to take on the challenges. My support is with me every step of the way. God bless my friends and Shawn for they are the glue that holds me together in times like these.

What I am thankful for today:
friends:
Heather
Jamie
Jen R
Erika
Jennifer G
Rachel
Melinda
Diane
Sally
Shelley
my children
Shawn
my health
my strength
creativity
God
hope
faith
the power of prayer
inspiration
laughter
a good time Saturday night
heat
chocolate
time
letting go
healing
energy
being able to run for 3 miles now
my jobs
animals
music
Amy Grant
my church
Linda (Jeremy's Mom)
forgiveness
positivity
love

Family, a Little Bragging, and Little Drops of Water

2010-10-12T19:42:00.000-04:00

Today was a great day. I enjoyed being with Jeremy's family so much. Nana's funeral was nice, short and sweet. I feel that is how she would have wanted it. The luncheon was good. My mom helped me get everything out.....thank you mom! Linda's house had a lot of people in it! Nana was there hovering over the dessert trays...I could just feel her. LOL! I love that Jeremy's family still treats me like family. I feel like I will always be a huge part of my family. Linda let me pick out jewelry of Nana's, perfume, whatever I wanted. It really made me feel good that she included me in all of that. Wait until you see the ring I picked.....GORGEOUS!

I haven't bragged about Shawn lately so I am going to now. Ha Ha Ha! In the last two days he has been very huggy, holding my hands constantly, more affectionate that usual. He got up to go smoke a cigarette...something we are working on getting him away from, and I said "Why can't you be addicted to me, I am much more healthy." He smiled and said, "I am addicted, I admit it." Then when he dropped me off at home I asked him if he would be ok without me for an entire day...ya know being addicted and all, and he said, "Maybe for a few hours....but that is all." LOL! He came to visit me at the store on Sunday and surprised me with coffee. I didn't know he was even coming. He got the bird out the window...thank goodness......and told me twice in about 15 minutes that I was beautiful. Can you believe that I have known this man since 2nd grade? Can you believe that we started dating a year ago in July and he is still this way towards me? It is hard for me to digest since I am so used to things wearing off and dying down. It just confirms that we are great together. And that love can conquer all. Enough of the bragging....you are probably ready to puke now.

So, Erika and I have been pondering some awesome ideas. We are planning this fundraiser for Amanda Buss and I have been having major realizations. I realize my purpose in life.....my main purpose. I am definitely here to service people and do God's work but I have figured out in what way. I will continue to volunteer at the animal shelter but my main focus is organizing fundraisers. Erika and I are most likely going to do this together and anyone who wants to help can join us. We are looking into starting a non-profit organization, one that specializes in fundraisers. Of course we are keeping the store. Our name will be Little Drops of Water. And the story behind that is, at church on Sunday Pastor Tricia said that we have to picture ourselves as little drops of water. Each of us has a special talent that if we put our talents together we can make great things happen. So, all of us drops of water together can fill an entire bucket. If you would like to be a drop in our bucket, please let us know. You do not need to commit to every single fundraiser but can help out where you wish. We have yet to pick a date for the fundraiser but will keep you posted. Maybe you should take the time and write a list of all the things you enjoy doing and are good at. This will help you figure out how you can help us.

What I am thankful for today:
Jeremy's family
my mom
my family
my children
my pets
my friends
my church
the animal shelter
making my dreams come alive
the ability to help others
meditation
time
a good nights sleep
The Biggest Loser
getting my tooth fixed tomorrow
taking another aerobics class with Jennifer tomorrow
Nana being at peace
my home
my jeep
the ring Linda gave me
laughter
hope
money
friendship
patience
Shawn
my weight loss
love

Ramblings for today

2010-10-10T13:47:00.000-04:00

In my last posting I mentioned how exhausted I was...... Today I am emotionally exhausted. It took Linda and I 6 hours to create two picture boards for Nana's funeral. I came to work at 10am and worked until 9:30pm last night. I managed to get over 50 thank you post cards created before she got here at 3pm. So yes, I worked the entire time. The girls at my store and I are creating post cards to send out to the people who donate monetary gifts to The Center for Animal Health and Welfare. It takes a job off of them and allows us to be creative in helping them out.

Today, I have a bird in my store. He is nesting peacefully on the top of a wreath I have hanging ontop of the windows in my office. How the heck do I get him out? LOL! At least it is entertaining when he starts to fly around. Maryann said it is a gift I have, animals flock to me. May I remind people that I am not entirely a bird person??? LOL! I have my few choices that I like, Casey and Sunney....that is about it. They make me nervous.

Today, I feel blah. Linda and I cried last night together so my head hurts today. My spirit just doesn't feel right. Church was great this morning until they annouced their sympathy for Jeremy and my family. I balled....with no tissues....snot and tears everywhere. I wish I would have had more time to scrapbook with Nana. She just could not make it up my stairs. Because of mine and Linda's schedule it was hard for us to coordinate time for me to go down there and scrapbook. Maybe this is why I am so sad. I was really enjoying my time with her in the last year.

After I had heard of her passing, I prayed. You know me and my signs..... Of course I had asked Nana to show me a sign that she had crossed over and was ok. Within two hours of asking, she came through to me twice. Last night I told Linda that Nana was ok and how I knew. She tearfully thanked me for sharing that with her and was so grateful that Nana made it Home.

I am so blessed to have the gifts that God has given me. The gift to see signs from loved ones who have passed, connections to the spirit world, the feeling of spirits being with me. My grandfather seems to be the strongest. I feel him the most when I write. Like now....I know he is with me. It is this inner shaking, cold feeling that the biggest snowsuit would not make me warm. He promts me to write. He wants me to publish a book about my experiences with the spirit world. I am just not ready to tell the world of judgemental and critizing individuals. My strength to not care what they think has got to be hardened. I have come a long way. Lets just say that I know the people I can talk too and I am so thankful for them.

What I am thankful for today is:
my experiences with 'the other side'
God
the people God has surrounded me with
patience
time
healing
love
laughter
inner peace
my children
my pets
my friends
my store
my creativity
inspirations
hope
faith
music
family
the gift of writing
energy
my health
The Healing Place
Linda M
Linda B
knowing Nana is in a better place
The Farmers Market next Sunday
Shelley

What is 'It'?

2010-10-02T22:14:00.001-04:00

One word sums up how I am feeling right now, exhausted. Although I am thrilled that we managed to raise $1,340 for the New Jerusalem Fundraiser today, it was a lot of hard work. I am sure everyone who participated is feeling the same way. It was so worth it though. Shani and I were so blessed to have so many people help us. A huge thank you to everyone who was a part of the event. We could not have made it happen without you.

In talking Youth Group talk today with some members of the church and my mom, I came up with some solutions to my constant feeling of banging my head against the wall when it comes to getting everyone together. The kids do not want to learn any more bible verses, nor do they want to sit around and talk about God. Not that I believe that Youth Group is all about that, I think it is important to get together with reasons of learning Gods way. Right? Times have changed since my youth group and I want to keep up with the current trends of getting extremely busy kids together. However, it has been a struggle since day one. I get that kids learn about God through church, Sunday School, Confirmation Class, etc. So how does a Youth Leader be a Youth Leader without feeling that I am getting kids together for a play date?

The community service at The Center for Animal Health and Welfare was such a hit with those who went. The children worked because they wanted too. They experienced things they have never seen. They felt love like they have never felt. My mom pointed out to me that these kids were getting a message. My mom totally acknowledged what 'it' is all about. 'It' is about doing for others. 'It' is about doing service for others, helping others, making other's lives easier. 'It' is about living God's way and spreading it to others just as Jesus did. 'It' is coming together as a community, a whole, and preforming God's work. Now the answer to what 'it' is, is life.

So, while we may have fun outings going bowling, to Dorney Park, camping...etc, we will be engaging in a lot of other wonderful experiences subjecting the children to things they have never seen. We will be helping out at a local soup kitchen, donating items to Safe Harbor Homeless Shelter, engaging in fundraisers for various charities and getting these kids educated on life, all aspects of it and how we can all help. As these kids grow up, they will figure out what matters to them most and help in the area they feel the most passion for. Just as I feel the most passion for animals. This doesn't mean that I will not help with other charities or events, just that my passion is greatest for God's wonderful furry creatures.

My challenge for you is to do God's work at least once a day. Make someone elses life easier by lending a helping hand. Could be as easy as helping someone carry their groceries to lending someone $20. Could be just a smile offered to help cheer someone up. Let everyone see God shine through you. Show them what wonderful things He can do. Be the messenger and show everyone what 'it' is all about.

What I am thankful for today:
How awesome our fundraiser was
all the help we received
Shani
Erika
Maryann
my Mom
Jennifer G for her amazing baked goods!!!!
everyone who donated something
Cindy
Pauli
Charles
Kayla
my bed
my niece and nephew
my children
my pets
my friends
my family
my strength
my confidence
energy
sleep
my health
money
my Jeep
kindness
generosity
my church family
laughter
God
time
creativity
affection
my free oil change!! WHOO HOO!
PartyLite
Shawn (he is coming home tomorrow...YAY!)
Emma and Gunnar who just make my day
hope
faith
love

Ramblings for today

2010-10-01T23:19:00.000-04:00

I am very excited about the fundraiser tomorrow. Shani and I worked hard at the church and Erika and I worked hard in the rain. Erika and I loaded the cars yesterday in the pouring rain. I know, what were we thinking? At least it got done. Hopefully we have a great turn out. We have over 65 baskets!

Tonight I am missing my man. He decided to go on a fishing/kayaking/camping trip up in the Promise Land near the Poconos. So, I am watching Ghost Adventures all by myself. I tried to get Gavin into it and he cannot get over his fear of the unknown. Shawn and I have our shows that we watch late at night...when we can. Watching it without him is just weird. I am so glad he had the chance to go away. All summer he was upset at his lack of liesure activities. He was able to get two of his friends to go with him and go for an entire weekend. He called me tonight to tell me that he was all set up, ate some good burgers on the fire, and is excited about kayaking all day tomorrow. He really needed this. And, it makes us appreciate each other even more. Absence does make the heart grow fonder....even when you think you can't get any fonder of someone.

Tonight I am praying for all those people who had their basement flooded because of all the rain. Although the rain was well needed, it didn't need to ruin houses and people's important stuff. May they get everything cleaned out soon and prepare themselves for future flood issues.

Despite my crazy day of rain, kids, getting the church ready for tomorrow, cleaning out a hoarders car (ask me later), dinner with my brother and his kids, then a sleep over with my niece and nephew....it was a pretty good day. I am glad it is over though. It is all in your attitude. Smile through the tears, dance in the rain, laugh a lot, don't sweat the small stuff, eat some chocolate and all will be fine at the end of the day.

What I am thankful for today:
time I get to spend with Shawn (even if it isn't much)
my children
my friends
my family
my church
sleep overs
Italian hogies
a great day tomorrow
sleep
a dry basement
fall
laughter
a sign from Mimi today
The Center for Animal Health and Welfare
Amy Grant
memories
smiles
hope
mums
love
free massages
hugs
kisses
my store
my furry friends
my pets
my man

How to Give Thanks During a Stressful Time

2010-09-25T18:36:00.000-04:00

I had a stressful week....actually month. Between chipping my tooth, getting a $400 electric bill, Pouncer with his diabetes then running away, brakes on my car needing to be replaced, and then issues with Chloe I just wanted to run away. After the storm calmed down I sat and tried to figure out what good came out of all of this. What it comes down to is that I realized how much people really care for me. So what if I look like I belong at the Q-Mart? LOL! My tooth will be fixed on the 14th of October.

On Agape's CD there is a song called Rejoice. Near the end of the song he sings, "Let us give thanks in all circumstances." When you feel like the world is crashing down on you, how do you give thanks? Taking some alone time, I prayed. I prayed that God helped me think of what I have to be thankful for during all this mess. I analyzed each situation: I didn't care for my left front tooth all that much so maybe chipping it and getting it re-done will make it look better? My electric bill just pushes me to look for a better building even more....which will help with location. It also pushed Erika and I on to getting eclectic turned off on the circuit breaker that we were not using. Pouncer....well I learned that I CAN give shots and take care of something I care about even if it means learning to do something I never thought I could. Him running away made me realize how many people care about Pounce and me. I think all of Hellertown was searching for him. Plus it made me realize even more how much Shawn cares for me. The entire day he walked up and down the alley behind the store, calling Pounce, talking to everyone he saw outside, walking the creek.....doing all he could to find my cat. He was supposed to be working but could not focus on anything with me being so upset. Jen R and Erika were as equally upset as I which showed their care and concern towards me.

Chloe's illness made me realize that I do have people who recognize all I do for them. The Center for Animal Health and Welfare offered to take care of Chloe so that I would not encounter a huge vet bill. The Center does not take any animals outside of the shelter for vet visits or surgery. But because they recognize all I do for them, they want me to bring all of my pets there from now on. It makes me feel appreciated. Not everyone gets to see how much we do for others and that is ok. Most of the time I like it when I am not recognized and can stay behind the scenes. Never would I expect anything in return, this is not why I do what I do.

What it comes down to is that God has surrounded me with amazing people. He makes sure that I know I am not alone in any situation. He gave me friends that feel my sadness and hold my hand during tough situations. They also cheer me on and celebrate with me the happy times. God gave me Shawn who never gives up and keeps me motivated to keep going. He had so much faith that we would find Pouncer and kept telling me that he was not giving up until we did. Shawn showed me that I am the most important thing to him and that when I am sad, his heart is heavy. My family was all praying for us, neighbors were praying, Makenna's teachers were praying, and finding Pouncer just shows me that prayers ARE answered. The more people who pray about the same thing, the faster the prayer is answered. Thank you to everyone who prayed for Pouncers return and for me and my kids.

I am so blessed to have many people that I can lean on. They are strong when I am weak. I am so thankful that God has enabled me to find the good in these situations. My jeeps brakes, well I was not ever in an accident and now my brakes work better than ever. So I am thankful for new brakes and that God kept me safe when they were not working. And thanks to my dad, I did not have to pay a mechanic to fix them. Focus on the good. That is all I can say. I have a roof over my head, food in my fridge, a jeep to drive, clothes to wear, healthy kids, I am healthy, I have a job, I have an over abundance of friends, I have an amazing relationship with Shawn, my pets love me unconditionally, I can see, I can hear, I can speak, I can run....I am free, I am beautiful and I am very much loved by many. Praise the Lord.

The other things I am thankful for today:
My time at The Center with my friends and my youth group
Birdy
Squeaky
Ramona
Alice
Hettie
and all my other favorite furry kitty friends
the power of prayer
money
time
the rain
the sunshine
yodels
painted toes
sleep
laughter
love
hope
faith
knowing my treasures await for me in Heaven and that no earthly treasures will be as wonderful.
blue and purple
support
confidence
non-judgemental people
Agape
the quote: Keep your nose out of people's business or their business will stay on your nose. ~The Power
inspirations
creativity
a heart full of love
God

Agape and the Treadmill of Life

2010-09-20T16:04:00.000-04:00

Yesterday was an awesome day with my children. We went to see Agape at a local church. He is amazing. Not only do the words of his music inspire me but his stories touch me in a way that I could listen to him all day long. Gavin was so interested in everything David said. My niece and nephew had a great time dancing with my kids and I, to his music. Thank you to Jennifer, Sally and Erika for watching my store so that I could be with my kids. We really had a great time.

So I got this fortune cookie that read: If you do what you have always done, you will get what you've always gotten. The meaning to me is that if we look at our lives as one big circle of events, good or bad, which ever of the two it is, it is because of choices we have made. If we choose to be mean, act jealous, not be wise with our money, be negative, whatever....we will always come in contact with mean people, feel worthlessness, be broke or bouncing a check, and get negative things in your life. If you choose to be giving and friendly, wise with our money, confident in ourselves and as positive as possible, then we will get more happy people in our lives, feel content and worthy, be wealthy in our bank account and in our hearts.

Why do people continue to stay the same if they do not like what comes to them or if they are so miserable in their life? If they have not learned the lesson it will come back around. In The Secret they call this 'the treadmill of life'. We can choose to get off this treadmill and make a better choice for ourselves. However, most people are so used to their life being this way, afraid to change, or rather wait for something good to just happen to them to change things. We are the ones who have to make the change.

Our past and our upbringing has a lot to do with why we are molded into who we are but remember that this belief system was instilled in us....it isn't necessarily how we HAVE to be. We chose to react to situations they way we do, we chose to be happy or sad, we chose to open the door for someone or just ignore them completely. There is a way to change everything. How do we do this? Start by changing your thoughts into thoughts of love. If you focus on love, then the things you do not love do not seem so important. Start giving without expecting anything in return. Treat people the way you want to be treated. And, remember that God loves everyone.....even those people you cannot stand...a quote from Agape. Prayer also helps. Ask God to guide you and listen. Our lives will only feel like one big circle of events if we decide not to change our decisions and/or the way we think. We are in charge of our lives.

What I am thankful for today:
time with my kids yesterday
The Agape concert
friends
my children
my pets
my family
lunch with Jennifer and Jessica today
the animal shelter with my youth group this Saturday
creativity
laughter
HIS blog
my store
Chloe healing
sleep
the sunshine
my favorite TV shows
the gym
the upcoming fundraiser
contentment
confidence
motivation
love

A New Song & A Peaceful Sign

2010-09-07T20:10:00.000-04:00

There is a new song that is out now that really sticks out when I hear it. After looking it up and finding the lyrics, I know why. Shawn has told me almost everything that these lyrics say. It is as if he wrote the song himself. He tells me that I am beautiful and clarifies that it is not just outter beauty. When he is complimenting the way I look he says, "You look nice today". When he is complimenting me as a whole, he says, "You are beautiful." Sometimes he will say something about little aspects of me like my smile, my hair, how soft my skin is and so on. He says that the room lights up when I walk into it. The thing I love is how heartfelt he is. When he says stuff like this it is random, sparatic, and said with his heart, not his mouth. His face changes, his eyes seem deep. It melts me when he compliments me because I can honestly tell that he means it. When you get the chance, look up the song on Youtube. It is called Just the Way You Are by Bruno Mars.

Today I had a very rushed and what could have been an extremely stressful day. Erika helped me put things into perspective on the phone in the middle of it but then I found myself driving and feeling very tense. This will all change on Thursday when I go to The Healing Place. Anyway, in my travels during the traffic and headache that was starting, I took a deep breath and said a quick prayer. It was very simple....something like, "God please take this stress off of me and get me through the day." I had to stop at a light only to look at the bumper sticker on the car in front of me that read "Be in Peace" Well I knew that God answered prayers but never realized how quickly at times....LOL! I felt this sense of calmness. I knew that everything was going to be fine. Normally I would call Shawn and say, "Honey I need a quick 'talk'." I would tell him what my issue was and he would respond, "Just do what you have to do, you will be fine, you always are." He has so much more confidence in me that I have in myself. I could not call him today because he has been putting in extra hours at his part time job which has no cell phone service.

I realized that at times like these, a quick prayer is all we need. We are not alone. God wants us to feel peace. We are here to be happy and successful, not to struggle. So if you ever are in need of a friend, do not forget that while you may not get one on the phone, the most important one is only a prayer away and is always listening.

What I am thankful for today:
the power of prayer
calmness
my friends
my family
Shawn
my kids
my pets
signs that come from above in so many different ways
God
my bed
a roof over my head
my jeep
compliments
feeling beautiful
the blue sky
Michelle and all the girls from the store that came and got their pictures taken tonight
Judy for watching the store
Erika
Jamie
Rachel (my Avon Fairy)
laughter
hope
peace
faith
love

Almost reaching a Goal

2010-08-31T20:15:00.000-04:00

Well I did it. I got on the scale. The moms in the locker room were asking me why I would do such a thing....LOL! I should have told them that Heather wanted me to make sure it works.....HA HA HA! Obviously it doesn't get used much.

It has been over two months since I have weighed myself. Not having a regular workout routine is one of the reasons why I waited. Recently putting on clothes that I dared to try on in earlier months, I have noticed that things are either better fitting or just way too big. Of course getting on the scale was not a scary event once I had this realization. I have my goal weight in my head, maybe it is too low, but I am going to see how close I can get. Last time I weighed myself I was 142 lbs. According to my age, height and body structure that is 6 pounds overweight for me. I should fall into the 116-136 range. I had a fitness analysis done a couple of years ago. I am very pleased to announce that the scale (it is the type at the doctors offices) said 133. YEAH! I am 1 pound away from hitting 10 pounds. And, I did this without a regular fitness routine. WHOO HOOO! Good-bye size 12.....good-bye size 10's.....I am a happy size 8 on my way to a size 6.

I will reach this size in no time once Makenna goes to school. I plan on making myself have a steady fitness routine even if I exercise at home for 20 minutes a day. Were you aware that Jennifer Aniston, a person I truly admire, keeps her body the way she does by simply exercising 20 minutes a day? She will run, do yoga, aerobics, weight training.....as long as it is something every day. I can do that! I work part time at a gym...I better be able to do 20 minutes.....LOL!

Right now I am feeling very good about myself. And what is nice is that I do not feel that losing the weight was much work at all. Shawn and I faithfully watch The Biggest Loser because it inspires us so much. Man do those trainers bust their butts! I am so thankful that I didn't have to work as hard as these contestants. When is that coming back on anyway?? Sometimes I feel like I need a Jillian in my life. LOL! She kicks major booty!

One of the things that I have to admit was that the thought of not being able to accomplish my goal with my weight was never an issue. Never once did I feel that I could not do it. It also helps to have support from those around me. The people telling me how good I look, Brad at the gym telling me "Damn girl...you keep going" while making silly poses with his biceps, Heather who will once in a very blue moon ask me to walk to the bank with her during our shift or after work when she comes to pick up Zachary. I do have a huge support team who is not nagging or degrading but very much into helping me achieve the goal I want to achieve.

I received a fortune cookie the other night that read: Do not offer advice at the time of a crisis, offer assistance. While I do not believe that my weight was ever a crisis but maybe just an unwanted issue I had, my friends did exactly what the fortune cookie said. They offered assistance in any positive way that they caould. And, they continue to do so. All you have to do is tell people what you want and make sure it is the right people. There will be some that have to give their advice...unwanted of course. So make sure that your support team is actually supporting you and what you want rather than what they want for you. I am so grateful that I have this in every aspect of my life. God has surrounded me with wonderful people to be my teammates in life. What is wonderful is that we all help each other achieve our own goals and dreams. We want to see everyone happy and successful and we support them in any way we can.

What I am thankful for today:
my weight
my blog
my support team(s)
The Power
ratepoint.com
my children
my friends
my jeep
money
laughter
God
faith
hope
Shawn
facebook
meetup.com
my customers
my store
creativity
inspiration
chocolate
love

Love is the highest frequency

2010-08-28T16:39:00.000-04:00

While I was scrapbooking today, yes I actually MADE time, I was reflecting on my relationships with people. People from the past, people from the present. Some have come and gone, some have come back into my life and others have stayed away. Thinking about what I have been reading in The Power, I can clearly see why this happens.

Love is the highest frequency a person can be on. When we lose sight of love, we lack love. When we fight with people, complain about people and so on, we lack love. While this is happening we may lose people because we no longer feel love for them....and visa versa. There are people in my life who I absolutely love, always have and always will, whether it is family or friend or Shawn. My relationships with these people work and work well because of the love we feel for each other. Yes we have different opinions, different life styles, different interests..... but we do not allow that to affect the love we feel. And, because of the love we are able to communicate well and accept the differences in each other. We do not allow outside influences to affect our relationships nor do we judge or criticize each other in any way.

I have to brag, mainly because I feel like the luckiest person on earth. How many people do you know have so many amazing friends? How about the relationship with their partner? How about the relationship with their kids? I am truly blessed. My friends are the spice of my life. Jamie, my soul-mate who has always continued to love me no matter what even if she doesn't agree with me. Rachel who kills me with laughter with her dry sense of humor, is ALWAYS there whether we speak once a week or once a month. Melinda is my mouth...the person who taught me to speak up in any situation. Jen R. listens to me when I need an ear and has offered so much help. Erika has shown me that I do have a clone....LOL! How two people who are very much alike can get along so well, I will never know. Ha ha ha ha! Heather is my 'bring me back to reality' friend. She is so logical and so strong. She may not agree but she is. Then there is Jennifer G who makes me laugh and keeps me sane in childcare. Jill who amazes me with her words of wisdom, her patience and her kindness...she gets it from her mom. Diane is the best neighbor anyone could ever ask for. She worries about me more than she needs to but I love her for it. And to think that these are only a few of the wonderful friends I have been blessed with.

Then there is Shawn. Mr. Humble Bumble. The one who makes me feel beautiful when I feel at my worst. He may not say things often to sweep me off my feet but he really doesn't have too. His patience, his kindness, his actions and his love for me make me feel like I am flying. The way he talks to me, so soft spoken, so honest, so caring and understanding, I never thought a man could be that way....at least all of the time. Then his creativity, his imagination, his goals...ahhh...he amazes me every single day. He has a passion for learning and growing in every aspect of life. Yes he gives me backrubs without me asking, he is always holding my hand, he is always complimenting me....and I do the same for him. The man even enjoys cleaning..??? We do have a lot in common but we also have a lot of differences as well. We respect each other and our differences and find a way to compromise without arguing.

One thing I love about Shawn most is that he loves the simple things in life. He loves nature, animals, being outdoors, finding hidden treasures in the woods and in the sand, music, children, other people's creativity...just to name a few. He does not need much to make him happy. And, either do I. It is nice to know that we can be happy with very little material things. What makes it even better is that we feel like we have so much with what little we have. I feel like singing that Beatles song, "Love is all You Need".

The love I have for the wonderful people in my life is what keeps me on the Love Frequency. I focus on how much love I feel for everyone and I feel higher than a kite. "Love is not weak, feeble, or soft. Love is the positive force of life! Love is the cause of everything positive and good." The Power by Rhonda Byrne

What I am thankful for today:
My amazing friends and their everlasting friendships
My relationship with Shawn
My children
My family
Creativity
Imagination
God
The Secret
The Power
My pets
Animals
Music
Flowers
Rainbows
Waterfalls
Magical moments
Time
Peace
Hope
Faith
True Love

The Power of Love

2010-08-24T15:44:00.000-04:00

In reading the new book called The Power I have had some major discoveries on why The Secret doesn't always seem to work in my life....and the lives of others. In The Power, it constantly reminds us that Love is the highest power. Love is the most positive power one can feel. When we are thinking about something or someone we love, we feel amazing, wonderful things happen in our lives and we feel like nothing can take that away from us. So then why do we still have bad days? Why do we still get into negative situations?

The answer is as simple as how fast we change our thoughts. One minute we are feeling love because we are laughing with our friends. In the next minute someone is complaining to you or you are complaining about something. When we are complaining, we are not feeling love. One minute we are hugging our loved ones, the next minute we realize our computer is slower than usual and it makes us frustrated. One minute we are driving without traffic feeling pretty good, then stumble upon a traffic jam and we don't feel too great. Our thoughts change so frequently throughout the day that the feeling of love is just as lacking as it is had. How can we change this? Is it possible to feel love every second of the day? Maybe it is for some people, but I have yet to experience that myself.

In The Power, what we can do when a bad situation happens that makes us lack the feeling of love is to immediately think of what we do love. It could be a picture of something that makes you feel good, or a situation that made you laugh. Maybe it is someone you love. It could be funny movie, getting lost in inspiring music or an inspirational book. It could be a simple phone call to a friend who will make you feel better. It could be day dreaming about the future, an event you have to look forward to. CHANGE YOUR THOUGHTS. Stop focusing on the situations where you are lacking love. You must feel love as much as possible to continue good things entering your life. Obviously it will take practice. There is so much negativity that we are all faced with each day from so many different outside influences. If we could consciously remember to fill ourselves up with love each time we feel lack, we would be so much better off. We could live more positively and be more of an inspiration to everyone around us.

I am so thankful that I have my 'support group'. My friends are always there ready to boost up my positivity. It helps when you have others to help you. When I say help, I mean get you out of your funk. Not gripe with you, and add to your already bad mood. Whoever said misery loves company is so right. Too bad we cannot get those miserable people on their own planet....LOL!

What I am thankful for today:
my support group
lack of negativity in my life
my children
my pets
my friends and family
people who choose to talk about positive situations rather than complain about negative ones
back rubs (without even asking)
my health
the health of my loved ones
money
God
food
a roof over my head
my store
my customers
creativity
inspiration
laughter
love
the power of prayer
music
Amy Grant
my jeep
my weight
the colors purple and blue
the sunshine
The Center for Animal Health & Welfare
church
Pastor Tricia
facebook
flowers
Cheryl
my bed
clean laundry
Shawn

Animals vs. People

2010-08-13T23:20:00.000-04:00

My fundraiser for The Center for Animal Health and Welfare is tomorrow August 14th. My teachers and my friends all agree that this will be a wonderful successful event. There are so many businesses and people that have offered to help me and who have given donations. I feel so blessed to have so many giving people around me. I used to think that I liked helping animals because they were not as mean as people. They are not judgemental or criticizing and they love us no matter what. Animals allow us to be who we are and allow us to grow and change without advise, opinions, eyes rolling, sighing, gossip, etc. They only alter us in a loving caring way by showing their affection and by changing our moods to be happy, content and peaceful.

After this last year, my feelings have changed. With all the people I have met; customers, teachers, friends, I do see that people can be just as loving and caring as animals. As I lay here in my bed with my Chloe next to me, a very rare moment since she is always outdoors, I am appreciating all of Gods creations. I realize that I will not like everyone but I will appreciate them and love them. For God has a purpose for every person in our lives whether it be a lesson we need to learn or a lesson they need to learn, or someone to help us and make our lives easier. Seriously, if we were not surrounded by evil or things we do not agree with, how would we ever know how we want to be or not be. How would we know 'not to make that same mistake' as that person did? I try so hard to find the good in everyone whether I like them or not.

A couple words I live by:
Give: Give love, give thanks, give hope, give laughter, give compliments, give help, give time, give money.
Appreciate: Everything
Love: Everyone
Faith: have faith that God and the Universe will take care of you, if you
Believe.

What I am thankful for today:
everyone who has donated and offered their time for the Crafting For Paws Fundraiser
the wonderful people who have come into my life this past year
my 'dream team'
animals
people
my children
my pets
my friends
my family
Shawn
foot rubs
compliments
laughter
water
sunshine
butterflies
rainbows
music
The Center for Animal Health & Welfare
sleep
Ghost Hunters, Ghost Adventures, Celebrity Ghost Stories
Bridezilla (so funny!)
time
flowers
hope
faith
God
money
church
love

Inspirations that just keep going..

2010-07-29T10:00:00.000-04:00

My week ended last week with a retreat to West Chester University with the older youth group from my church. Besides listening to powerful inspirational stories, I found myself closer to God and learning what my purpose is here on earth. The kids were amazing, the food was amazing, the music was amazing....it was all so wonderful. My purpose is to help others....adults, children and animals. I do have this burning desire to make other people's lives better. So, with God's help I am going to pursue this.

My birthday was awesome. The girls at my store celebrated with me by buying me lunch and hanging out at my store. Shawn surprised me while I was there with a dozen roses. Erika made me a giant chocolate chip cookie.....so yummy. Later that night, Jeremy came home with Chinese food for dinner and my family came over for cake. It was a good time.

Yesterday, Jennifer took me to the Lilith Fair. We had a chance to see Missy Higgins, Sarah Borellis, The Court Yard Hounds and Sarah Mclachlan. Of course when Sarah played In the Arms of an Angel tears streamed down my face. It was definitely happy tears though. That song will forever remind me of my grandmothers passing. I know she was with me last night.

Tomorrow, Friday, Heather has surprised me with a trip to Longwood Gardens for my birthday. It is a place that has been on my goal sheet for about 2 years. Finally I am getting the chance to go and, take my children.

Everyone in my life has been so giving, so kind and very inspirational. This past week has been one of the best weeks of my life. I have accomplished some things on my goal list such as:
attending more concerts
getting a closer relationship with God
participating in a service project
seeing Sarah Mclachlan play In the Arms of an Angel
going to Longwood Gardens
spending more quality time with my friends
attaining new customers in my store

Life is good.

What I am thankful for today:
achieving my goals, big and small
the concert
the youth retreat
Agape
Rachel Kurtz
my friends
my family
celebrations
the couple who handed Jennifer and I tickets that got us off the lawn and only 15 rows from the stage!!
knowing what great things positive thinking can do to ones life
the youth group for being so wonderful!
my church
flowers
sunshine
learning what my spiritual gifts are
Shawn
Chinese food
ice cream cake
laughter
new music
old music
my children
time
laughter
hope
love
faith

A Wonderful Day

2010-07-11T22:13:00.000-04:00

Today was a wonderful day. At church my family and I became members, even though we already felt like we were. We wanted to make it official. Because I have committed myself to the Lord, I decided to reaffirm my faith by getting baptized. Almost everyone that I love deeply was there. Those who weren't were there in spirit. My Uncle sang a song for me in which I picked out of the hymnal. It is a song that I had never heard before until I attended the church. I am not sure why the song hits me like it does, it always brings tears to my eyes. It is called, I the Lord of Sand and Sea. When I hear the song, I picture myself singing it to the Lord. My calling is to spread the word of Him and to let his love shine through me onto everyone who comes into my life. What better person to sing it other than my Uncle? It was amazing.

After work today Shawn and I went for an hour and a half walk on this trail right here in Hellertown. It is along Saucon Creek. We walked in the creek, saw a few fish, and got a great work out. Our goal is to one day be able to run the entire trail. We have agreed to start running for 5 minutes at a time since neither of us enjoy running that much. I love that him and I set goals together, even if they seem small. He got me over my fear of the water when we went kayaking last weekend. There is something about lakes that I cannot see the bottom of. I used to have panic attacks at the thought of getting in a small boat and getting into the middle of the lake. When Jeremy and I went kayaking in Aruba it was different. I could see the bottom of the water AND we were on a double kayak. This time with Shawn, I was in my own kayak. Being that he is so relaxed, so patient and understanding, he was the best teacher. He took away my anxiety immediately. We started out gliding near the edge of the lake where the water is shallow. Then slowly, I managed to get myself all the way out in the middle of the lake like it was nothing. I cannot thank him enough for helping me get over one of my biggest fears. He really does help me in so many ways. Shawn has taught me patience. He has taught me not to sweat the small stuff. And, he is so genuine. He pays attention to detail constantly. If he sees me shivering, he covers me up before I even have a chance to say anything. If we are going on an outing, he always makes sure I have everything I need and gets it ready for me. One of the things I love about him is how grateful he is and how he makes sure I know it. I can honestly say that I even enjoy grocery shopping with him. We go in, get what we need and leave while making it a fun experience. Every once in a while he comes out with a compliment which is so random. He looks at me like no one else ever has. We really do compliment each other very well. I am so lucky to have him.

What I am thankful for today:
everyone who came and supported me and my family today
my children
my pets
quality time
getting to watch a movie with Gavin tonight
my family
my friends
the teachers at my store
my store
Shawn
patience
overcoming fears
kindness
gratitude
my church family
laughter
the power to change our lives
God
positive attitudes
loyalty
a good nights sleep
backrubs
compliments
goals
hope
faith
love

Wow, it's been awhile!

2010-07-03T15:30:00.000-04:00

So many times in the past few weeks I have wanted to get on here and blog. However, busy schedules and lack of free time have kept me from doing it. I figure, I have been on the computer all day working on stuff for the store, I may as well stay planted and write on my blog. Here I am!!

My life has been incredible in the past month pretty much in every aspect it. How lucky am I? Walking through Dollar General I was looking for markers for my store and happen to stumble across this book titled "Unlocking the Secrets to Living Your Dreams." I noticed that the two Authors were Authors in which were featured in The Secret, and decided to purchase it. There was only one there. Yep, it was obvious that I was in the right place and that book had my name ALL over it. I love that it breaks down The Secret and actually gives you questions to answer broken down in every aspect of ones life. Already I see a great improvement in most areas of my own life.

One of the ways you can achieve your dreams (without it feeling like work) is creating a team of people who want the same things as you do. Thankfully that was one thing I already had, without realizing it. All I had to do was spread the word. Erika and I have the same dream as far as our businesses go. The best thing is that we are totally on the same page, helping each other out in the areas that we are not willing or able to do well. She is now my retail buyer for the store and has taken that entire responsibility off of me. Jennifer G and I are on the same page as far as creating fundraisers to help out those in need. She also helps me come up with crop ideas and stepping up to the plate at the store when I cannot be there. Now there are lots more sharing my dream and the responsibilities of it which will be mentioned in other blogs. My 'dream team' came together before I even read this new book which stated it is the first step to being successful. How cool is that?

As well as business boosting, my personal life has improved greatly. My respect for Jeremy has totally increased. We really do get along well and thankfully parent the same way. It makes life easier since we have to live together for the time being.

Shawn and I have actually been able to spend quality time together for the first time. We went hiking at Glen Onoko Falls about an hour from Hellertown. I never realized how much I love hiking. I went once before (a long time ago) during fall, which was amazing, but this experience was different. It was nice to have someone who shares the same passions as I for nature, being outside, and taking in God's wonderful world. We could have sat there all day and just enjoyed the waterfalls. Being with Shawn is peaceful and that is the only way I can describe it in one word. He is the most humble person I have ever met.

In the spiritual aspect of my life I am totally complete. It is as if God took me by the hand and just ran with me. He has shown me a life of simplicity, peace, happiness and everlasting love. At this point in my life I could not ask for anything more. The best things in life are free.

What I am thankful for today:
every moment of my life
rainbows
sunshine
my children
my pets
The Center for Animal Health and Welfare
my store
my 'dream team'
nature
love
laughter
hugs
my church
my neighbors
my friends
creativity
time
energy
my health and the health of my loved ones
peace
hope
faith

God's Timing is Always Perfect

2010-06-14T19:59:00.000-04:00

Last week I had a moment, ok a day, of wallowing in self pity....for less of a better phrase. I started off my day just tired and feeling very sluggish. It was a moment of trying to get myself to be positive when I really didn't feel like it. It was to me, work. Checking my email I find one from Jill who always asks me how things are. I was very honest with her although I do not like to complain, and told her I was having a rough morning. Her response was, "You have to check out this link: www.amysinsiteonlife.blogspot.com, It is very uplifting and the first couple of lines may even bring tears to your eyes." Have I mentioned how much I love this girl? I did go back and look at my blog and read my last entry. It did make me feel so much better. I am so thankful for her and her ability to snap me back into reality. I am so thankful that God brought her into my life.

Coming out of my funk, things progressively got better. More and more positive things kept coming into my life. Shelley from the Farmer's Market brought me a bouquet of flowers and a bracelet that said, You Are Love. We talked for a while and came to realize that we live very parallel lives. Another person I am so thankful for.

Erika and I came up with the idea of making her a Buyer for my store. She took off with the idea and will now be in charge of all the retail and everything that comes with it. Again, God brought someone into my life to make my life so much better. I am so thankful for Erika.

Then Jennifer G. knew that I wanted to focus on fundraisers at my store and took off with the idea. She sent out a bulk email to all of my teachers inquiring about hosting a fundraiser in August for the Animal Shelter that I volunteer at. Her ideas were amazing. And, just to know she took the time to do that for me when I never even asked.....amazing. Jennifer has been a great supporter of all I do, one of the cheerleaders that God brought to cheer me on and keep me going.

God's timing is perfect. No matter how impatient we are, there is a reason that things happen when they do. God does answer our prayers. He does bring people and circumstances into our lives that help us throughout our journey. But seriously, how many people acknowledge this? I try to look for everything good in every situation, even if I do not understand it or agree with it. I try to be aware of everything around me and all that I have to be thankful for. Jill, Shelley, Erika and Jennifer are only a few of the many cheerleaders I have in my life. And I am so thankful for each and every person that travels on my journey with me. We are here to help each other and make each others lives easier. I will support them in all they do on their journey just as they have for me.

What I am thankful for today:
the wonderful people who have been giving me donations for the shelter
friends
my cheerleaders
my children
my pets
my family
creativity
inspiration
God
patience
faith
hope
peace
love
confidence
Shawn
music
Ghost Hunters
Ghost Adventures
Losing it with Jillian
Bridezilla
the gym
my store
quality time
the power of prayer
my health
the sunshine
the beautiful flowers in my garden
my church family
signs from my loved ones who have passed away
my pets
my life

Lots to talk about

2010-05-30T17:22:00.000-04:00

Working at the gym on Friday a woman who I only worked with once, popped her head in and said, "I have a question for you. Do you live your life by The Secret?" Puzzled, shocked, and very confused, I said, "Well, I try to..LOL!" Then I asked her why on earth she asked me that (when I hardly know her). She works the front desk which is connected to the child care and apparently she has been watching me while I am there. She said that I am always smiling, always happy, energetic and she could not help but to notice. I remember reading in The Secret that when you live this way, it is contagious. I realized that this woman was feeding off of me. The next thing to come out of her mouth was, "I want to be that way." Tomorrow, I am taking her the book to borrow. I have seriously lost count on how many people I have touched with The Secret. Yes, there are some who get annoyed with 'happy people' and that is totally ok. Where once I believed that there was no way someone could always be happy, I now completely disagree. You choose your mood. And, the best thing is that we can change it. It takes practice but it does work. And, the ratio of people that are inspired by positive people is much greater than the people who are annoyed by them.

On another note, I am getting baptized this summer. Starting a new chapter in my life, I want to start renewed in my faith. God is the soul reason for the positive changes in my life. Now that I have turned to him for everything and made him the center of my every day living, the feeling of being completely whole has consumed me. This woman at the gym did not just see me as living The Secret, she sees me living life with God. People can see God through others. After a short conversation with her and realizing that she is not far from where I was a year ago, she said, "Man, God really does bring people into our lives at just the right time." I completely agree.

So, in this new chapter my store will be doing a number of different things to come. My children and I are becoming volunteers at the SPCA once a week in which I am attending the orientation this week. My Youth Group will be engaging in some community service, outings and lots of fellowship. I m helping with Vacation Bible School this year at church. I am attending the Listen To Jesus Youth Gathering in West Chester at the end of July. My friend Jennifer and I are going to an all day concert, which I have never been to. It is called the Lillith Fair. And, I will become a member of my church as well as being re-baptized. I cannot tell you how excited I am about this wonderful time in my life. Yes, it will be busy but I know it will be all worth it.

May God bless you with his presence just as he has with me. But remember, you have to be willing to let him in. It was a very long road for me when I didn't.

What I am thankful for today:
God
the power of prayer
my youth group
my children
my friends
my family
the sunshine
the farmer's market
my store
Pastor Tricia
my church
love
laughter
positive people
inspiration
the power to change your mood
flowers
hope
music
summer
my future

Had a great day

2010-05-14T23:14:00.000-04:00

So, today was good. The gym was crowded with kids but two of them were so amazingly cute. Logan and Jessica were fighting for my lap. Ya gotta love the affection that kids show you.

After work, I went to watch Gavin run in the Fun Run at school. It was really hot but Gavin did great. He ran it in under 8 minutes. Then my mom took Makenna and I out to lunch at Subway. While at Subway I ran into so many people that I knew, customers, people from church, friends....it was really nice.

Because I didn't get much one on one time with my children on Mother's Day, tonight was my night to do what I wanted to do with my kids. So, Jeremy and I went to the Waffle House with the kids tonight. I know it is not a huge thing to go there, but it was just being with my kids, out of the house, without any interruptions. The kids put music on the jukebox that I like and we ate a really good meal.

So happy Mother's Day to me....today. I enjoyed today so much.

What I am thankful for today:
my children
the Waffle House
my friends
my mom
the gym
good food
my store
my teachers
my Youth Group
laughter
Makenna singing
Subway
hope
peace
love

What do you Visualize as Your Life?

2010-05-10T19:58:00.000-04:00

How do you visualize yourself? Do you visualize yourself being miserable, feeling tired, driving a crappy car, working a job you hate? Ever wonder why you are where you are in life? What we visualize over and over becomes reality. Whether you know it or not OR like it or not, we are the reason why our lives are the way they are. We can sit and blame the past, our mentors, or situations which altered our lives. However, we are the ones who choose to deal with that whether it be in a negative way or a positive way. It can be comfortable to stay in a miserable situation because it is all we know. Yet, the entire time we stay where we are, we complain. The only one who can change us and where we are in our lives....is ourselves. Start with changing your attitude. Know that you deserve the best out of life. Appreciate what you do have. Surround yourself with positive people. Love everything and show everything and everyone how grateful you are. Visualize yourself with a better life....over and over again. Lastly, feel it. Feel the love, the gratitude, the joy of your NEW life. It will come true.

What I am thankful for today:
The Secret
signs from my loved ones who have passed
love
laughter
my children
my friends
Pampered Chef
appreciation
the wonderful people at my church
compliments
blushing moments
my health
the gym
time with the ones I love
energy
sleep
the sunshine
flowers
music
smiles
hugs

Turn Your Mood Around

2010-05-02T21:07:00.000-04:00

Turn your mood around by showing gratitude. What are you thankful for? Say it, feel it, and watch your mood completely change to be positive, inspired, appreciative and happy. Stop focusing on the negative issues and focus on only positive things. More positive things will come into your life as you do this. What is your thankful list?

I am so thankful for:
my neighbors
my children
my friends
my family
my store
my customers
my blogs
facebook
internet
email
my car
my pets
my clothing
PartyLite
Stampin Up!
Pampered Chef
my teachers
faith
love
inspiration
laughter
God
the power of prayer
my church
Youth Group
imagination
positive attitudes
open minds
smiles
hot showers
chocolate
music
The Biggest Loser
my part time job
flowers
sunsets
fresh air
my health and the health of my loved ones
happiness and the happiness of my loved ones
air conditioning
Mirror Images
Makenna's teachers
Pastor Tricia
scrapbooking
creativity
signs from above
time
quality time with the ones I love
quality time with me

Keep on Keeping On!

2010-04-22T09:00:00.000-04:00

April 21st—“Keep on Keeping On!”

“So, my dear brothers and sisters, be strong and immovable. Always work enthusiastically for the Lord, for you know that nothing you do for the Lord is ever useless.”
1 Corinthians 15:58

When you feel like quitting, “keep on keeping on” and you’ll get what runners call their second wind. That’s the power which propels them to the finish line and makes them winners. It’s why the Bible says, “Blessed is the mans who perseveres” (James 1:12 NIV).

Ever heard of Thomas Starzl? He became interested in organ transplants as a surgery resident in medical school. In 1958 he sewed new livers into dogs whose livers had been removed, but all of them died within two days of the operation. A year later he found a way to stabilize circulation, and the dogs lived for a week. In March 1963 he performed the first human liver transplant, but his patient bled to death. That failure, and the hepatitis epidemic that spread through artificial transplant centers worldwide during the 1960’s, forced his liver transplant program to be abandoned. But he refused to quit. In 1968 Starzl reported the results from new transplant trials. All seven children involved had survived, although four died within six months—an encouraging, but not stellar result. By 1975 only two liver transplant programs were left in the world. Twenty-three years after he first began, Starzl and his team found success: nineteen out of twenty-two patients lived for long periods. Starzl was criticized, even vilified by the medical establishment. But he persevered. And we should be glad he did. Today liver transplants are routinely performed around the world and people who had no hope are now living happy and productive lives. So, whatever your assignment, “Stand firm. Let nothing move you.”

If this doesn't motivate you to keep going, then something is wrong. Many times I have been getting ready to give up on so many things. Some small spark inside me says..."keep going." Maybe that spark is faith? Maybe it is hope? Not sure. Like The Secret says, we should consider our lives as if we were driving in a car at night time with the headlights on. We can only see the next 200 feet in front of us yet we can make it all the way to another state in the dark. If we have faith that we will get to where we want to be only being able to see little of what is ahead, we will make it to our destination. A light will be made a little at a time. We do not need to see the entire picture or know how...just know we will.

What I am thankful for today:
The Secret CDs which I am borrowing from a friend
my friends
a wonderful walk with Jamie and the kids last night
my children
my pets
my part-time job
inspired action
my health
the health and happiness of my loved ones
laughter
hope
faith
sleep
my appointment at The Healing Place
a clear mind
the sunshine
getting Pappy's flower beds done
music
smiles
love

SHOUT!

2010-04-14T14:45:00.001-04:00

April 7th—Shout!

“It shall come to pass, when they make a long blast with the ram’s horn, and when you hear the sound of the trumpet, that all the people shall shout with a great shout; then the wall of the city will fall down flat. And the people shall go up every man straight before him.”
Joshua 6:5 NKJV

Are you fighting a battle you’re afraid you won’t win? Who are you depending on: God or yourself? When faced with the combined armies of Ammon, Moab, and Mount Seir, God told His people Israel, “The battle is not yours, but God’s (2 Ch. 20:15 NIV). And God’s never lost a battle yet! He told Joshua, “I have delivered Jericho into your hands” (Jos. 6:2 NIV). Notice, He didn’t say, “I will deliver” or “I might deliver.” No, He said, “I have delivered Jericho into your hands!” Israel already had the victory, now they were being called to act on it. But the question remained, how? God’s answer was “Shout.” Joshua told the Israelites, “When you hear…the trumpets…give a loud shout; then the wall of the city will collapse and [you] will go…straight in” (Jos. 6:5 NIV). Now no rational person would expect a shout, no matter how loud, to bring down the walls of a big city. But this was no ordinary shout; it was a shout of faith based on a promise God had made. Even though victory looked impossible, when Israel shouted God responded by bringing down the walls and opening the doors to the Promised Land. When you’re looking for an open door and all you can see is a brick wall, the last thing you feel like doing is shouting “victory,” right? But you need to do it regardless, because: (1) the shout of praise leads to victory; (2) it puts your faith “on the record;” (3) it confounds the enemy and robs him of two of his greatest weapons: doubt and discouragement; (4) obedience, even when you don’t understand, always brings results. So shout—for the victory is yours!

WOW! Was this message something I could have read months ago....maybe even more than a year ago. Being the wanderer I was....wandering away from God......something HAD to make me wake up. It no longer mattered who I made happy because I was miserable. My insides were torn, my mind was not in the right place and Lord knows that my heart was so broken. But lucky for me, I have learned to love myself again and see myself as God sees me. I was created by God. Although I wandered away from him, he was always there. He brought me back to him. And even though it was a rough road, none of that matters now. I will live in the moment, never regret the past and always look for the best for my future. No matter who loves me, or doesn't love me, God always will. It doesn't matter who forgives me or who doesn't forgive me, God always will. It doesn't matter who believes me or who doesn't believe me, God knows the truth. And, God is the ONLY one who matters.

What I am thankful for today:
Faith
Hope
Laughter
my children
my friends
my store
positive thoughts
The Secret
the power of prayer
God
the sunshine
ice cream
a long walk with Makenna today
time at the park today
my health
happiness
love

Accomplishment and Needed Prayers

2010-04-08T10:06:00.001-04:00

Before I get into my actual writing for today I wanted to acknowledge an accomplishment that I made yesterday. My therapist once told me that I do not give myself enough credit for much of anything. So, I have to pat myself on the back for achieving 3 miles in 30 minutes on the elliptical machine yesterday. I am telling you that Wednesdays are my best workout day because of watching the Biggest Loser the night before...LOL!

Never did I think I would be able to run faster than I did in 8th grade when I ran one mile in 27 minutes.... which was the fastest out of my class. Now my goal is to top yesterdays accomplishment.

There is so much I could write about today and I think I am changing my mind about what I had originally planned on writing. Shawn's grandfather passed away in the middle of the night last night. It was something that was not unexpected because his health had been declining in the past few months. He lived a good long life into his 90's. Please say a prayer for Shawn and his family. Let us rejoice that Walter is now in a better place, at peace and without pain.

I may not have met you here on earth Walter, but I will meet you someday when it is my time to be called home.

What I am thankful for today:
the power of prayer
my friends
my children
my achievement yesterday at the gym
my family
scrapbooking
a nice walk with the kids this morning
the sunshine
the blooming flowers
faith
my customers
my teachers
my store
The Secret
Knowing that we are all here to go on our own journey in life....whether or not anyone agrees or disagree with the path we choose.
that God is with us the entire way
knowing that Paradise awaits me
love