The greatest joy I've ever known......is loving you.

Going Private!!!!!

2012-01-21T12:18:00.000-08:00

We are going private with our blog. If you wish to continue viewing the blog please comment or email me your contact information in order to be added to the list. You will then be asked to log in using a username and password each time that you wish to view the blog and its contents.

Thank you and God Bless,

The Clemons Family

Merry Christmas 2011!!!!!!

2011-12-26T15:46:00.001-08:00

This Christmas was filled with lots of laughter and great fellowship, warm hearts and happy memories. We enjoyed ourselves.....we enjoyed each other....we enjoyed the things that really matter...like cherished loved ones, family, and friends. Time seemed to fly as we told stories, reminisced about the days of old, and remembered loved ones that had gone on to be with our Heavenly Father.

Long time...no post

2011-11-19T10:28:00.000-08:00

We have been so busy lately and I haven't been keeping up with the blog as well as I should have. So here's an attempt at a long overdue update.....Scott had knee surgery last month but he has recovered and back to work now. He is doing much better with the repairs.

Raegan has been a busy girl. She finished her first soccer season and enjoyed every minute of it. However, she enjoyed cheering for the team almost as much as playing the game....which leads us to her newest adventure. She is going to cheer for jr. pro basketball at her school. There are about 8 little girls on her squad and she is super excited about it! If she likes cheerng that much then we may sign her up for gymnastics. Recently Raegan was also the flower girl for homecoming. It's hard to believe she could be big enough to do all of these things....it seems like yesterday she was just a toddler. Time sure does fly!

My schedule has been really hectic lately...Monday 3-D Academy (professional development), Tuesday-Thursday... teach enrichment before and afterschool...Friday and Saturday....grad school classes.....Sunday...teach 3 yr olds. AHHHHHHH! Thank goodness things are finally winding down. I have finished my first semester of my Ed.S. but not without a few stumbling blocks. The work is much more difficult for this degree than it was for my Master's and school (work) has added so many more responsibilities with changing policies and updated federal and state standards. I always knew that public education was tougher than most people realized but now it is drastically changing, making the jobs of teachers and administrators much more challenging. Additionally, I have completed Administrator training with the superintendent of schools and survived an interview with the other supervisors. That was definitely an experience. I have also survived 2 of my 4 professional evaluations for the year. I will finish my remedial/enrichment classes soon as the students get ready to take the state end-of-course exam. I only have one more session of 3-D Academy professional development...Wooohooo!

So as you can tell....we have been very busy to say the least. We are looking forward to the upcoming holidays and time spent with family and friends. Christmas is my favorite time of year and I am looking forward to time off to enjoy it with my family.

Staying busy..........

2011-09-17T15:51:00.000-07:00

Well my ED.S classes are well under way. Some of my classmates and I have commented lately, "what did we ever get ourselves into?". The schedule is busy and the assignments are tough but I am making it. My plate seems to be filling up rather quickly with professional and personal responsibilities. All I can do is take it one day at a time...one step...one moment at a time. With the new evaluation models changing we have received so much pressure at work. I have had the "toughest" evaluator for my last 2 evaluations....but it went very well....definitely all God. Then I wrote for a grant that I never expected to get ...but I did...another God thing. He really has been helping me out lately to fulfill my dreams and desires. I'm excited about the opportunities and I can't wait to find out what the future holds.

Raegan is really enjoying soccer. She loves to run. She loves being part of a team. We are so proud of her. Even though she's the smallest and the youngest...she's still a trooper. She is enjoying school but this year has been a major adjustment for her. Many of her friends from last year have moved away due to family and financial situations so she has been busy making new friends but still missing the old ones. She has 2 new teachers this year and she is staying all day instead of half days. She is learning so many new things. She loves to draw more than anything else. Everytime we turn around she is drawing us pictures. She loves to play dress up and still loves dolls...a girl after my own heart. Next month she is going to take part in homecoming at my school. She will be the flower girl. She is very excited about the occassion and getting to dress up. She doesn't know it yet but she and her escort will get to ride in the parade on top of a convertible. She is mostly excited about being on the football field with the cheerleaders.

Guess what begins this weekend!

2011-08-21T08:36:00.000-07:00

YOU guessed it!!!!!! COLLEGE! I'm getting my ED.S!
Join me in this journey as a working mother...teacher...wife...and college student! I am excited about the opportunities that may come from earning this degree. I know that God has plans for me and I am ready for whatever he sends my way.

Life's a BEACH!!!!

2011-07-19T20:41:00.000-07:00

Summer days are coming to an end.

2011-07-19T20:09:00.000-07:00

Summer days are coming to an end. We are getting ready for a new school year. Tonight we had orientation for Jr. Kindergarten at school. We found out that Raegan will be with the older 4 year olds even though she will be the youngest in the class. Due to low registration numbers we were expecting her to be placed in the class of mixed 3 and 4 year olds. I was disappointed because I felt like she would be repeating a lot of the same curriculum and that she would not grow to her full potential with the younger children who had never been in preschool. However, I accepted the decision and did some heavy duty praying that God would place her where she needed to be. So tonight I was very surprised to find out that she was placed with the older kids. Her teacher told me that it would be more beneficial for her to be with the older group because she needed to be challenged!She said Raegan knows the curriculum from last year...she needs more...she's ready for more. She said that she was placed because of her ability not because of her age. Talk about an answer to prayers....all the glory goes to HIM.

We have been enjoying our days of sleeping in and staying up late. We have been swimming, grilling out, enjoying movies and playing outside. I hate to see summer vacation ending and the school year nearing yet I am excited about the opportunities that lie ahead for us. I will be teaching a new forensics course and 3 honors courses along with my regular biology class this year which I am excited about and also a little nervous about. College classes will begin next month which is another "new" for our comfortable lives. Scott and I are also teaching preschoolers on rotation at church. He is moving to another fire station very soon and Raegan will begin AYSO soccer this season. This year brings with it many "new" things. Raegan's newest accomplishment is that she has learned to tie her shoes. All summer she has been wearing flip flops/ sandals.... I had almost forgotten that she could tie her shoes by herself. The other day she sat down in the floor and tied up her shoes without any help. She is so proud of herself....grinning from ear to ear as she shows anyone who will let her. I love the tenacity of this little girl....she is precious to me!

2011-06-25T22:16:00.001-07:00

Summer days have been filled with lots of swimming and playing outside. Our family has been very busy with vacation and family reunions....birthdays and other celebrations. We are gearing up for Raegan's birthday party next weekend. Its hard to believe that she is going to be 4 years old. It amazes me to watch her and see how much she has grown over the past year...figuratively, spiritually, and literally. Everyone keeps commenting...."look how tall she's gotten." Lately we have had people guessing that she is 5 or 6 when really she is still 3. She's a talker....never meets a stranger and usually carries a contagious smile that can light up a room in seconds. She's my spunky little girl and if you couldn't tell I'm very proud of her. I can't believe how much she has accomplished this year. She is writing her name and a few other words...like cat, dog, cow, and pig. She colors in the lines and can add and subtract numbers under 10. Although, I would like to attribute her accomplishments to her intelligence I have to give most of the credit to her wonderful teachers at Riverside Christian Academy. They have the best staff at RCA. Its so funny .....its such a small school that she literally knows kids of all ages. I called this week to find out about some things for the upcoming year...they were like "oh yeah... you're Raegan's mom."
Things are going to busy for us next year. Raegan will be playing soccer in the fall and cheerleading in the spring....all at her request. Scott has taken on a part-time job since firefighting only schedules him 10 days a month. He is really enjoying the new job. I will be back in grad school in the fall and teaching some new classes as well. I told him that this is probably my last degree for a while...college is so expensive. He has been so encouraging...saying never to let money stand in the way of my dreams....he said if I want to coninue after my Ed.S. then do it and not to ever worry about the money. I am a lucky girl to be married to this man. Sometimes I take him for granted like all of us do when we have a good one. It has been almost 11 years for us (7+ married). I am proud to be his wife and to share the joys of parenting our precious daughter.

Baby Hayden is finally here!!!!

2011-05-30T12:45:00.000-07:00

Big Cousin Raegan....she is so happy that he is finally here!

I am so proud to be an AUNT!!!!!

Becoming an aunt.....

2011-05-23T21:17:00.000-07:00

We will have a new addition joining our family very soon. I am very excited about becoming an aunt. My brother and his wife Amanda are going to bless our family with a little boy.....Hayden Thomas. We can't wait to meet him! We are making plans and awaiting his BIG debut. Raegan is very excited about being a "BIG COUSIN". She has been practicing how to hold Hayden with her baby dolls. It is the sweetest thing to watch. I know they are really going to enjoy each other.

Warmer weather.....in the very near future.

2011-04-11T16:59:00.000-07:00

This weekend we got a taste of summer with warm weather nearing the 90's. Saturday we ventured off to Noccolula Falls with my in-laws to a BBQ cook-off. We rode the train at the park and saw the animals at the petting zoo. Fun was had by all! Then on Sunday afternoon we continued some of our chores at home. We planted more monkey grass along the front side walk and cut the grass. Raegan decorated the driveway with chalk art. Scott finished cleaning the pool....minus some leaves that we have to get out very soon. We finished the evening with a brief fishing trip at the lake near our house. The excitement of the day was when Raegan caught her very first fish. She was so excited and we were too! I can't wait to be out for summer vacation. The three of us are going to have so much fun!

It's been a while....

2011-03-27T10:33:00.001-07:00

We have been so busy and I have not been updating the blog regularly....but here goes.

Raegan is loving her preschool. She got her 3rd quarter report card recently and has improved in every area so we treated her to shrimp at Bonefish and bought her a babydoll. Praise and reward made all the difference in my educational efforts so we are carrying that on with her. She can now name the books of the Bible and the Apostles....she has tied her shoes twice. She is growing and learning by leaps and bounds... It is hard to believe that she will only be 4 in July. She seems so grown up already. She uses so many "Big" words when she is talking to us. She keeps us entertained to say the least. The biggest change for us recently has been her hair.....Yes, we finally cut those beautiful locks....10+ inches that is. She has been wanting a haircut and decided on her own to donate it to Locks of Love, an organization that makes wigs for children. I almost didn't have the heart to let her. When she told me that she could grow her own hair and the other little girls couldn't and begged me to do it for them I had to give in. I am proud of her big heart but I also had a hard time giving up those beautiful curls.....So for now my big hearted girl is sporting a cute little bob hairstyle....and I will leave you with that......God Bless!

Great News!!!!

2011-01-29T09:31:00.000-08:00

This week has been the first week that we have actually been 5 days instead of the usually staggered 3 days due to snow. It was quite a challenge getting back in full swing. However, my students were a pleasure to teach despite the many adjustments. This week has been very engaging for them and for myself. On Friday, I received some unexpected but welcomed news. I have been selected LCHS Teacher of the Year. I am very honored and humbled to have been selected by my colleagues to represent the school. I feel very blessed and I just wanted to share the news.

2011 Update

2011-01-17T14:57:00.000-08:00

My brother Alex and his wife Amanda are having a boy. Sweet baby Hayden is due to join our family the end of May. We are all so excited and can't wait to meet him. Raegan is very excited to be a "Big" cousin and have a little baby around. Every time we go somewhere she wants to buy something for him. She is very thoughtful and reminds us of all the things that he will be needing for when he comes to our house. Sounds like she could get used to a little one around! We are planning a shower and have almost all the details worked out for a great celebration. She has also enjoyed picking out all of the stuff with me.

We had a wonderful Christmas and were surprised with a beautiful snow on Christmas morning. Then after winter break we reluctantly returned to school for a few short days only to be hit by the third biggest winter blast in the history of weather record keeping for our area. We were blasted with 8-10 inches of snowy bliss which earned us a nice week-long vacation from school. Then our regular holiday of MLK day fell into the mix.....ah 6 days in a row of no school. I have been delighted to spend these days at home with my family. I cherish these moments....partly because I know I'll never be able to turn back the hands of time and get them back and also because I love them so much.

On Friday, the roads became safer for travel so I ventured out for another post-op checkup from my October ear surgery. My grandmother was getting cabin fever so she decided to ride with me and Raegan since Scott was working. The last time I was in the office I had to have more packing removed and my ear suctioned. This is always pretty painful and makes me a little dizzy and nauseated so it was best that I had someone with me. Plus, she and Raegan are buddies and she was able to help me look after her while I was in the office. Long story ...short....the doctor decided not to wait the planned 6 months to do my secondary surgery. Instead he felt the need to do it as soon as it would fit in my schedule. So he scheduled it for Monday morning. After rushing to the lab before it closed for the weekend to have blood work done we finally made it home late that evening. Thank God my grandmother decided to go along for the ride. She was so much help.

Well, today is Monday. I had my surgery this morning. Little did we know that I had fluid backed up in both eardrums and some behind one of them. The drums are retracted so far back in the left ear that it is touching the third bone and creating retraction pockets that could lead to cholesteotomas if not treated. This minor operation should improve my hearing and reduce the risk of further damage from the retractions and reduce the chance of future ear infections. I am finally coming around from the anasthesia and am looking forward to returning to work tomorrow.

The first month of 2011 has already proven to be an eventful beginning. I was planning to start my Ed.S in the fall. However, this week my school superintendent sent me some information about a similar program leading to an Ed.D. I have always wanted my doctorate degree and this may be an answer to prayers....a chance of a lifetime. Scott and I are very excited about this opportunity. The completion time will be the same as the Ed.S but it will be a higher degree for the same investment. Pleas pray that everything works out and that all the cards will fall into place. We had been planning a differnt course for our lives and for our family and became frustrated and disappointed when things hadn't gone as "we" necessarily had planned. However, I have been giving it to God and praying for some direction because I know that I can't do it all by myself. He has shed new light on my path and I feel like his plan is becoming clearer to me now. All the praise and glory be to HIM.

Well all good things must come to an end.

2010-12-13T20:07:00.000-08:00

This has been a great year. We have so much to be thankful for. This semester has been productive. It feels weird not to be in school while teaching school. I found out my classes have been postponed until next fall. This has been a blessing in disguise because although the semester has been productive it has been challenging. On another note...our family has bounced back from a few hits. Mom survived life threatening surgery and was recently rleased to go back to work. My grandmother and I both had surgery in October and we are both doing great. Scott is completing his first full year with the fire dept. and loves his job. He looks forward to going to work every shift. Raegan and I have had to adjust to being the daughter and wife of a firefighter. Raegan is learning so much at school. We love RCA and it has been a blessing to all of us. She has made so many new friends. She can read her name although writing it is still a work in progress. She prides herself in weekly Bible verse memorizations. She absolutely loves to sing and dance. I am so proud of this sweet, sassy little girl. My brother and his wife married this year and we will soon find out whether their new addition will be a girl or a boy. We are beyond excited and can't wait. Being a mom is the best gift in the world but being an aunt is second best to having your own....loving the idea of spoiling and sending them home so watch out Alex and Amanda. 2010 has been a great year. I look forward to finishing it out with the ones I love most. We can't wait til the Christmas program, lights in Nashville, living Christmas tree, Noccalula falls, parties with friends and gatherings with family. Thank you to everyone who has been a part of making memories in 2010.

2010-11-18T16:24:00.000-08:00

Congratulations Alex and Amanda

2010-11-15T16:20:00.000-08:00

I am so happy for my brother and his new bride. The wedding was lovely! They both looked amazing! Everything fell into place perfectly. I pray that the two of them share a beautiful marriage filled with health and happiness. Wishing you both all my love.

Love,
Sister

Brrrrrrrrr!

2010-11-06T11:04:00.000-07:00

It seems as if we have completely skipped autumn and gone straight into winter. Yesterday when I pulled in the driveway from work it was actually sleeting. Wow its only 19 days until Thanksgiving and shortly after it will be Christmas. Let's just say I am looking forward to some time off and spending time with my family. I am NOT looking forward to the hassle of the holidays, though. There is so much to do and yet so little time to do it all. Work has gotten more stressful lately because of the RACE TO THE TOP program. In education we have made a deal with the devil to get all this money for education. They are absolutely working us to death! Next Tuesday I have meetings before and after school. I never seem to get enough time to actually "teach"....Instead we are becoming more and more bogged down with surveys, online courses, meetings, paperwork, etc. Oh well, enough complaining. Alex and Amanda are getting married next weekend....a week from today. YIKES! Time has flown by with this wedding planning. Raegan is very excited about getting to wear her "marry" dress aka her flower girl dress. Preschool is going great. Raegan is making so many new friend. In fact, today we are going to her friend Josie's birthday party. She has done so well for being the baby. She even won the spirit award for her class during Homecoming week. She says when she grows up that she wants to be a dancing cheerleader....let me tell you she plays the part well. She especially likes learning songs and memory verses each week. I am amazed at what she can remember. These little ones are like sponges, soaking it all up. Scott has been asked to come to her school to talk about fire safety and being a firefighter. She can't wait for him to come. I am a little sad that I will miss it. Wish us luck as we get out in the cold today. We don't deal with COLD well in the south.

Things are looking up!

2010-10-23T21:02:00.000-07:00

We are finally beginning to feel "human" again. Grammy is doing great from her gallbladder surgery. Mom got the staples out and is getting around pretty well. She still has a long road but is expected to recover. She is still getting IV's twice a day and has about 4 weeks of that left. I went to the doctor for a post-surgery checkup and got most of the packing removed. It will take some more time to determine if the surgery was successful at restoring my hearing. I am still hurting off and on but things are looking up. In the meantime, we have all had a little cold going around at our house but now we are doing better.

Wedding plans are in the works and it will soon be here. We attended a wedding shower today for Alex and Amanda and have another one to go to tomorrow. The flowers are all finished and the details are coming together for the rest of the decorations. Raegan's dress finally came in and it fits great. I got my dress and we have ordered Scott's tux. We are finishing the final plans for the rehearsal dinner and desserts.

It looks like school plans have changed slightly. I was going to begin college again in January to get my ED.S but they have decided to start the program up in the fall. This may be a blessing in disguise since things have been so hectic lately. I am looking forward to going back to school but this will probably be my last degree for a while. LOL! Everytime I say that my dad says yeah right until the next one rolls around but I'm serious this time.

Raegan got her first report card from school. We are proud of her and all she has accomplished. I love to see how much she loves school....ahhh evidently just like her mommy. She works intently to memorize her Bible verses. They recite one a week on Fridays and then they get to go to the treasure chest. We practice with her each week and she enjoys the praise and the reward for her success. She has made many friends at school and I am proud to see her personality through her interactions with these little friends. We plan to send her there next year but after that I'm not sure what will happen. Private school is so expensive but such an investment so I am praying about it!

My sweet husband has been a blessing lately. He has helped clean the house, take care of me and my mom, and cooked for us. He has been so thoughtful and kind while things have been so crazy. He has been a rock to me! I love you Scott....I can't believe that 10 years ago this month we met. Neither of us were too serious about a relationship but we were crazy about each other. You told me to just let it go where it was meant to go...get on the train and ride...and so here we are. We are committed in a wonderful marriage and still crazy about each other. Thank you for 10 great years of being yours.

Special thanks in our time of need.....

2010-10-06T22:26:00.000-07:00

This past week has been so stressful but in the midst of it all, God's mercy has been with us. He has kept us all healthy and well during this trial. On Wednesday of last week my mother had a preparatory surgery where doctors harvested veins for 4 hours to prepare for a major operation on Thursday. On Thursday, the team of doctors completed a bifemoral artery bypass and stint replacemnet in 8 1/2 hours where they removed infected grafts in her femoral arteries, replaced them, and connected them to the abdominal aorta. On Friday, I had a tympanoplasty and mastoidectomy on my right ear to remove a lesion on the bones, repair the eardrum and drill the bones behind the ear to remove infection. Then on Monday my mother also had a minor surgery to put in a Hickman catheter/ central line. To say that our family has been hit hard is an understatement. Miraculously, my mother was disimssed home today. She will recover at home with home health services for the next few months. She will receive IV antibiotics for the next 6 weeks which will be administered by my wonderful husband and great aunt twice a day. Next week my grandmother will have gallbladder surgery. To add to all this excitement...my brother and his girlfriend...now fiancee have announced their engagement and upcoming wedding. WOW!!!!! All I can say is thanks be to God....because without HIM we would have never made it. I know many prayers were going up on our behalf this past week and we have definitely felt HIS presence in our time of need. Special thanks to the many friends and loved ones for all your acts of kindness. Thanks to everyone who pitched in to be at the hospital, cards, flowers, food, and for loving my child when I couldn't be there with her. Thank you to the saints... I mean aunts who gave mom's house a facelift and thorough cleaning so that she would have a comfortable place to come home to. Thank you for the countless acts of kindness that you all have shown. My family is forever grateful and blessed because of you.

Seeking joy in the small things.....

2010-09-19T21:10:00.001-07:00

I am just trying to seek joy in the small things....like spending time with my precious family, loving my child and husband, and enjoying the beauty of each new day. These last few weeks have been a little hectic and are soon going to be even busier. I continue to work more hours each week with parent conferences, ballgames, and day to day duties. I have atleast two 12-14 hour days a week. In mid October, I will begin my remedial program for students to prepare for the fall test. This past week I was approached and asked to be the administrator over ACT testing at our school. Although thrilled about the opportunity, I don't think I can manage any more on my plate. Keeping up with what I have to do now is challenging enough. Later this month we will have a meeting about another grad. school program that I am interested in. If I go back to school again then this will definitely be my last degree for a while. I aspire to one day earn my doctorate but right now it just doesn't seem within reach. However, I am still young and you never know what God has in store for me.

Raegan is doing excellent! We love her school. Despite being the baby in her class, she is achieving and excelling. Her teacher tells us each week that she is doing great. Her favorite part is reciting her Bible verse each week. She has become even more independent than she was before. She is making many new friends. This week we took her to the fair and she loved it. It was hard to keep up with her. I thought she would be afraid of the rides but I was wrong. "We" rode until we(I) just couldn't go anymore. LOL! She loved the demolition derby and the cotton candy.

Mom will be having surgery on the 29th and 30th. It is such an extensive surgery that it will have to be split into two days. There is a higher mortality rate this time due to the nature of the operation. She is really scared but knows that it is her only option as the doctors gave her 6-12 months to live without it. We would appreciate your prayers. The doctors anticipate a lengthy hospital stay with much of the time spent in ICU. She will be off from work for approximately 3 months. She has blocked stints in her femoral artery and will need a bypass and possible stint replacement. Thank God for my sweet family for helping us all plan ahead and get through this. Never understimate the value of your loved ones near or far. We have some family coming in from out of town as well as those who are close by pitching in to help. My dad and my grandmother are helping as much as they can even though my parents have been divorced for over 20 years. My husband and his parents are showing unwavering love and support. Thank you God for all of these special people in our lives.

In the midst of my mother's ordeal I have a CT scan and if everything is going well with her after surgery then I will be having my ear surgery at the end of the same week. This was planned so that I can recover over Fall Break and so I will be well enough to help her by the time she gets out of the hospital. I am anxious and nervous about everything that is going on but fully reliant on God to get me through. Last week Raegan was assigned one of my favorite verses.....I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. Thank you Lord for speaking to me so clearly and showing your presence in my time of need.

Enjoying a Day at the Park.....

2010-09-12T20:40:00.001-07:00

2010-09-09T20:12:00.000-07:00

Oh how I miss the days like these.....

and treasure the ones like these.

I love you baby girl.

Please be praying for our family...

2010-09-04T08:17:00.000-07:00

My mother had two knots come up on her legs and she returned to the vascular surgeon since the knots were close to her previous surgery sites. She went to the doctor and they said that the stints are blocked and will have to be removed and replaced. She goes next week for an MRI and a CAT scan to check for more blockages and to have her brain checked. She has so much trouble with her short term memory as a result of poor circulation from the blockages. Please pray for her surgery and healing.

I went to the ENT yesterday after dealing with an ear infection for the last month. I took very strong antibiotics and steroids but they did not work. I will do another round of steroid/antibiotic combinations for the next 2 weeks. I have oral meds and drops. Then I will have a CT scan to check for bone damage. Then they will schedule surgery. I need another tube in the left ear and reconstruction in the right ear. The CT scan will determine if I need a mastoidectomy where they drill the bone just behind the ear from the ouside. They will repair the perforation in the ear drum and check for cholesteatomas (benign tumor growths). They will repair the retraction pockets in the drum. I have never had an external surgery to the ear where they cut from the outside. My previous 7 surgeries have all been through the ear canal and invisible to others. I am praying for restoration of my hearing and for quick healing from the surgeries. The doctor is leaning towards the external surgery which means a longer recovery time for which I will possibly be out of work. I am trying to get everything scheduled for fall break so that I won't miss too much.

Praise be to God

2010-09-04T07:44:00.001-07:00

Have you ever had one of those days where you felt Satan creeping into your life because of the work he has done in others? Have you ever experienced the cruelness and selfishness of another human being because of jealousy and indecency? Have you ever thought you were doing "what was right" only to be hurt by someone else in their attempts prove you wrong? Well this happened to our family recently. I being my worry wart self let it get to me as usual. I didn't say much to my husband because I was too upset and he tried to comfort me as he told me he expected things to work out the way they did. Because these experiences have been ongoing he has become numb and expectant of them and able to cope more. I on the other hand am the glass half full kind of girl and I expect more of people so I get let down when they act so immaturely. All I could do was Pray. I prayed for peace and comfort. I prayed for God to heal hearts and help with ongoing psychological issues so that joy could be restored instead of hurt.

God knows our hearts and intentions and I believe that he honors our prayers and requests, especially when they reflect his will. Although for a short while Satan was able to steal our joy we did not succumb to it. We went out for a family dinner at one of our favorite restaurants. Raegan fell asleep in the car so Scott held her in the restaurant. She awoke and needed to go to the bathroom while we waited for our food so I took her. At a nearby table sat a lonely soldier dressed in civilian clothing. He looked to be in his mid 30's. He ate a modest meal and intently studied some papers that were stapled together. While I went to the restroom, he and Scott struck up a conversation and talked for a few minutes. This would not be relevant to share until he left so as I approached they ended the conversation and I sat down to eat. I heard him exclaim, "Best of luck to you and your family," and he and Scott shook hands. We ate our dinner. He left sometime midway through the meal only nodding as he left. Then Scott told me that the soldier struck up a conversation because he saw his firefighter shirt and asked about his job. The soldier shared that he had just finished a tour in Iraq where his job was to inspect fire stations and equipment. He shared his years of experience and commented about our nice family. Scott thanked him for his 14 years of service to our country and likewise the soldier thanked him and they shook hands and concluded with well wishes. The waitress brought our...to go boxes and our dessert. We waited for the check as she was very busy taking care of other diners. She came with a smile and told us that our check had been taken care of. We thought she was joking. She laughed as she told us that the nearby soldier had requested our bill and paid for our meal. We were overjoyed by the generosity. We were elated by the gesture of kindness. I completely forgot about the previous happenings that had made me so blue. We felt God's presence through the kindness of a stranger. He was gone...like a ghost, probably never to be seen again. So I prayed for him also. Praise be to God for all his Glory.

A little catching up.

2010-08-22T07:53:00.000-07:00

This week has been very busy and productive. Raegan has had a great week at pre-school. She has earned smiley faces every day for the past two weeks and on Friday she said her memory verse "Peter said, You are the Christ, Son of the living God...Matthew 16:16" and received a treat from the treat box. Her mommy-itis is slowly diminishing. She is the youngest child in the program. Most of the children in her class are about 9 months older than her. She is hanging in there and making us proud. She woke up Friday with a raspy voice and a runny nose but other than that everything is well with her.

School is keeping me very busy. I am teaching a new class this time and it requires more time and work for preparation. I have had to stay late just to keep up with everything. Thursday I was at school for 14 hours because I had to work a ball game after my usual work day was over. Trust me I was really ready for the weekend. Just as I was ready to rest.... my mom requested a haircut and my brother wanted to bring his girlfriend over. So I began cleaning the house and cut her hair. Then we decided to just meet for dinner since things were so hectic. All the while I have a pretty bad ear infection and heel spurs that are bothering me. Somehow this week I managed to squeeze in a doctor's appointment and get some meds for the meantime. I will probably go see an ENT soon to deal with the ear since I have had so many surgeries in the past. The heal spur can be treated with injections and steroids.

Scott has finished the decking project with help from his dad and a little from my brother and dad. It looks really great. We finally got the rails and the gates up so that the pool is closed off. Now we have yard clean up ahead and a fence to put up around the back yard. The flexibility of Scott's schedule has allowed him time to work on the many projects around the house. I am thankful for his skills and his willingness to help out with them. In the coming weeks he will be working with firefighter rookies on his days off to do the physical tests for the new rookie school.

I can't believe another summer has come and passed. I can't believe the changes that have happened and yet there are still so many things left unchanged. I pray that in our busy daily lives that we remember that time is precious and to keep the ones we love close. This time of year I am especially missing some people who were once an integral part of our lives but circumstances have changed and some of them have gone on before us while others are still here. "Thou shalt not avenge, nor bear any grudge against the children of thy people, but thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself: I am the LORD." Leviticus 19:18

200th post

2010-08-16T20:28:00.000-07:00

MTSU Graduation.....I finally finished my Master's degree.

The First Day Of School

2010-08-08T20:55:00.001-07:00

Well the first day of school got off to a great start until.... I had to leave her all by herself for the first time. All she has been able to talk about is starting school. She loves it so far! She did cry for momma for just a few minutes but she managed to overcome her fears thanks to the kindness of her teacher and the familiar faces of some of her swimming buddies. She told us that she played on the swing, shared toys, and made some friends. I asked if they sang songs and she said no which I find hard to believe but she did tell us that they prayed. She also said that the little boy in the yellow shirt (whoever that is) got a sticker but it wasn't her turn and she would get one next week....silly girl. She must have been way too excited to eat because she left her snack untouched and actually ate it around 12:00. This week will be the first full week for both of us. The first full week of waking early, packing lunches, getting ready, fixing hair, etc. Wish us luck!

Sweet child of mine.....

2010-07-09T11:42:00.000-07:00

We are truly blessed by her wonderful spirit and presence. She has been the best child we could've ever asked for. Don't get me wrong...she has her moments of not minding and sassy talking but overall she is such a joy to be around. She has a big heart for others. She always wants to help and take care of our boo boo's. She thinks about others usually before herself. Now, she can make a mess in a hurry but she "tries" to help clean up. She loves on us daily. When we go places she thinks of buying things for others. She takes care of her babies as if they were real. She loves on the animals as if they were her best friends. She phones Heaven atleast once a day to make sure everyone up there knows we're doing fine here. She sings songs and laughs with the most beautiful smile on her face. She is absoultely precious to us and we are blessed to be her parents.

We've been busy this summer with

2010-07-09T10:46:00.000-07:00

Birthday parties.........

Beach trips............

Swimming lessons........

Charlotte's Web

2010-06-30T18:03:00.000-07:00

I wanted to read Raegan a "real" book instead of the short stories that we usually read. So today, I took her to the book store and we bought Charlotte's Web. At nap time (because we couldn't wait til bed time) we read 2 chapters. She listened intently...repeating every detail of the story. I asked her questions to be sure she was really paying attention and comprehending the story ;0)....the teacher in me I guess. I can tell this girl is going to have a heart for good reading and I am so glad to get to share it with her. The plan was to read a chapter a day and finish it before summer. It looks like we'll finish it sooner than later and be making a trip back to the bookstore. Love it!!!!!!!!!!

Summer Update....

2010-06-28T18:56:00.000-07:00

We returned home this weekend from a fabulous beach vacation in Orange Beach. I will post pics soon. We all had an incredible time. We went to see the lighthouse in Pensacola and it was definitely a sight to see. After 177 steps it was worth the wait for the incredible view. We went on a dolphin cruise and it was the best we've had in 10 years. The beaches were more beautiful than we anticipated with the media hype.

I received a phone call from my grad school professor that I had passsed my comprehensive finals which was a huge relief since it was pass/fail and the final requirement for graduation. I will graduate in August. I am thankful to all who have made this dream possible for me, especially my family.

Next week sweet Raegan will turn 3! I can't believe it. She will be starting swim lessons which are greatly needed since she has spent most of the summer in the pool. I hope she enjoys it! She will also start preschool in the fall. This a bittersweet moment for us because it she's growing up way too fast. She is ready to make new friends and learn lots of new things. She has picked out some new school shoes already and we got her a Dora lunch box and backpack for her birthday. This girl really loves Dora.

Many changes are happening at work. Our principal retired and a new one has been hired so things will be different for us. At first I was sad about the change but I am now looking forward to what is in store. I will be teaching both honors and regular biology next semester so that means I will have to do a little summer planning to be on track. With less than a month left it seems like the summer has almost passed me by. I am looking forward to the challenge and the opportunity.

So what's going on with you....blog readers? How has your summer been?

2010-05-31T13:17:00.000-07:00

There's always gonna be another mountain
I'm always gonna wanna make it move
Always gonna be a uphill battle
Sometimes I'm gonna have to lose

Ain't about how fast I get there
Ain't about what's waiting on the other side
It's the climb

The struggles I'm facing
The chances I'm taking
Sometimes might knock me down
But no, I'm not breaking

I may not know it
But these are the moments that
I'm gonna remember most, yeah
Just gotta keep going

And I, I got to be strong
Just keep pushing on

'Cause there's always gonna be another mountain
I'm always gonna wanna make it move
Always gonna be a uphill battle
Sometimes I'm gonna have to lose

Ain't about how fast I get there
Ain't about what's waiting on the other side
It's the climb, yeah!

Our Trip to the "Gatlinburger" Aquarium

2010-05-12T18:52:00.000-07:00

A Special Weekend

2010-05-10T17:04:00.001-07:00

This weekend was so special. Saturday Scott and I celebrated our anniversary and then Mother's Day was Sunday. We got to spend some quality time with our family and enjoyed great food. It was just a peaceful time. This time of year is really busy for me at work. It has been hectic as usual but rewarding at the same time. This weekend also marked a special event in my life. It was 20 years ago this Sunday that I asked Jesus Christ to be my Lord and Savior. I'm far from perfect but I am HIS. I am thankful to be his child and I hope to always share his LOVE with my own daughter. Being a mother is a tough, endless job but one of the BEST in the world. I am blessed beyond measure. She has brought so much joy to all of our lives. I never imagined that such a little person could be such a big part of our lives. Being a mother is truly amazing. I definitely felt the love from my family from heartfelt sentiments,flowers, and cards......way more than I ever expected or deserved. It never fails that I get a Mother's Day card from my baby brother and this year was no different. My grandparents also share this day with me and this year it was hard not having Grandaddy with us but he was missed. I will think of him when I plant my new rose bush from Grammy. Our conversations were filled with much laughter and remembrance of him. My sweet daddy gave me the best card....a real tear jerker. And of course, Scott out did himself as always. He recognizes how stressed and tired I have been so he treated me to a spa gift certificate. I'm holding out until the end of the semester. My daughter was precious, telling me "Happy Mudders Day" every chance she got. Wow! I can't believe she's almost 3. Where does the time go? Her growing up is bittersweet. Time is just too precious to take for granted.

Just a few more days....

2010-04-28T18:46:00.000-07:00

In a few more days we will be in the burg!!!!! I am going to a teacher in-service in Gatlinburg for marine biology and fossil recognition and I am so excited to get to bring my family along. We are going to have a blast! Raegan is so excited. She and Scott have never been and it has been at least 10 years for me. I will post pictures when we get back. Only 16 1/2 more days of school until summer break! Wooooohoooooo!

Happy Easter!

2010-04-04T18:17:00.000-07:00

Today was absolutely beautiful. Raegan and I started off the day by checking to see what the Easter Bunny had left. Then we got ready for church. She twirled and twirled in her dress. She felt so pretty. We met Robin and Haston at church for a great Easter service. After church we went to the fire station to see daddy who was working. I really didn't expect it to be so hard being seperated from him but we sure did miss him. Raegan and I ate lunch at Cheddars and she was so well-behaved. We had fun, girl time. We ordered daddy'd to go and then dropped it off by the station. Then we visted at Papa's house with Papa, Grammy, and Alex. We had fun hunting and hiding eggs. I kept putting them in all the obvious places and my brother was really hiding them. Raegan managed to find all 27 in a short period of time so we had to hide them twice. LOL! He told me to give her more credit and hide them in harder places. She loved the challenge. Again, we were missing daddy. This is the first year that she really got into hunting eggs and her little personality was just bubbling over. After egg hunting we changed clothes and spent the rest of the afternoon playing in the creek.

Thank you Lord for the beautiful day so that we could spend it with the ones we love and share of your mercy and grace. Easter is not about bunnies and baskets but about the sacrifice that was made for us at Calvary so that we may have everlasting life. Not a day passes that I don't think of my Grandaddy and today was no exception. However, I am comforted in knowing that because of Jesus we will be reunited one day. In the meantime, we continue to be thankful and truly blessed.

A Beautiful Day in Pictures

2010-03-19T16:54:00.000-07:00

Where is the sunshine?

2010-03-17T16:45:00.000-07:00

Well Spring Break has come but the sunshine hasn't. We had hoped for warmer weather and the opportunity to get out and have a little fun. We have been pretty productive around the house and having extra time has allowed for some much needed catching up. I always love this time of the year. It means we're so much closer to summer. I can't wait to have the summer off with Scott and Raegan. His schedule should allow for some fun family time. His dad keeps reminding me that these 24 hr shifts will pay off later. I am really looking forward to it!

It snowed......Again!!!!

2010-03-02T14:42:00.000-08:00

What's that white fluffy stuff? Did you say SNOW? Raegan and I had a wonderful SNOW day at home together while daddy was working. We even had enough snow to build a snowman, something I haven't done in so long. She was so excited when she looked out the window and saw the white stuff. Hopefully this will be it and warmer, sunny days are ahead. To tell the truth, we are ready to have our feet in the sand...but until then...we wait.

We are really praying about the year ahead for Raegan. She has been on the preschool list for the last two years. I know CRAZY that they have to go on the list that far in advance. I feel pretty confident that she will get in but there's always a chance that she won't. We have a backup plan but we are giving it to God to bear and take care of. We've done everything that we thought we should so...it's up to him. We were thinking about a fall sport or activity for her but I'm just not sure that I'm ready to do that. It looks like if we do anything it will be this fall or next spring. I know she's old enough but I want her to really love it. I don't want to push her even though she begs to do this stuff. I feel like she should wait to play ball but maybe dance would be okay. I checked around last year and although she was old enough I just felt like she wasn't ready. Maybe it was me and not her but nevertheless it is what it is. She keeps begging for a sibiling but we all know its not good to give a child "everything" they ask for. We will see!

Scott is getting used to the new schedule. He loves his job. He has one more hurdle, passing the state EMT test and then he will be able to breathe a sigh of relief again. We are all getting used to the schedule. Thank goodness for great in-laws, dad, and Grammy who have helped me out with juggling Raegan, work, and class. I have really missed Scott but I am getting used to the fact that he can't be here for everything. He missed Raegan's first pageant which was a bummer but I told him there will be more. So far his calendar looks good on the big holidays but next year is another story. We will definitely have to plan ahead. Then being the wife of a firefighter will really sink in. I am almost finished with grad. school. After a few weeks I will begin my final semester of school. I haven't chalked this up to be my final educational experience but I will probably take a break for a while. Who knows...you never can tell.

RE: Teaching is my God Thing

2010-02-15T16:11:00.000-08:00

First of all I am humbled by the response I got to the post "Teaching is my God Thing". I believe that so many of us will work at jobs and serve in positions that we are truly unhappy in. Sometimes its the "bad ones" that help us to appreciate the "good ones". Somehow through trials we find our purpose and find meaning in the things that we do. God doesn't guarantee us happiness but he does guarantee us joy. Choices are often difficult to make and we often rely on family and friends to guide us which shows wisdom and if we have wise godly relationships then this is helpful. God places people in our paths who help us make the big decisions that shape our destiny but ultimately he places them in our lives so that we will know him and become closer to him.
Teaching in a public school has its boundaries where religion is concerned. Sometimes my witnessing is done simply by action. Yes, education is important but loving those children is equally as important. When my students come to me for comfort during difficult times it may just be a kind word, a gentle smile, a listening ear, or a pat on the back. Being a teen is tough but so is being a parent to a teen. In most cases my students turn to me when they are in need because they come from non-traditional homes where they don't have anyone else to talk to. I am humbled that they choose to share their lives with me. I am honored to be their teacher.

Where does the time go?

2010-02-10T21:01:00.001-08:00

It seems like it was only yesterday that we were bringing her home from the hospital and she was getting her first bath.

Teaching is my God Thing

2010-01-22T20:39:00.000-08:00

I have always wanted a big family. I come from a small, close-knit family and there is so much that I love about that. Before we had Raegan, my kids at school would ask when I was going to have children and I would say to them why do I need kids....I have them. They were my babies. My philosophy on teenagers is that they are sometimes overgrown babies. We often treat them as if they are grown-ups expecting them to be responsible adults when physiologically and psychologically they are still developing. Sometimes I have to remind myself that they just need love and nurturing like an infant. This week God has reminded me how instrumental I am in his plan. He is using me to carry out his plan through these children. They need me and I need them and we are like family to each other. I have to be honest.... I haven't always been 100% sure that teaching was for me. Sometimes I questioned God's plan for my life. People often criticize my decision to teach, implying that I could have been someting else, made more money, etc. I hate to say that at times I agreed with them.
Weeks like this one help me stay focused and realizing that this is a God thing and not a me thing. In this week alone I have dealt with so many issues with these students. Most of the situations have been heartbreaking but through their trials I have had the opportunity to be Jesus with skin on as Bro. Steve calls it. Two students have confided about recent rapes and the emotional turmoil that they are dealing with. We have been working with a team of counselors and law enforcement officials to get them the help that they need. Another student found out she has an inoperable brain tumor. A young man told a story of how he had a gun pulled on him in his neighborhood. Another shared his family misfortunes of his mother losing their home, car, and job all while trying to stay away from her abusive ex-husband. One boy returned to school this week after his family lost everything over the weekend in a house fire. A girl shared about her mother's mental illness and how she has to care for her when her father is away at work. All of these stories were shared just this week. These students come from many diverse backgrounds. Some are black, some white, some in between, some poor, some middle class, some christian, some not. These kids have one thing in common....they need someone. They need God and I am a sounding board for them and a stepping stone to him. He is using me to give them hope and them to keep me humble and HIS. Blessings are all around us even when we least expect them. These kids have become part of that big family that I've always desired. Each one of them takes a piece of my heart away with them when they leave....I just hope that they always remember that my heart belongs to God.

Whatever you do unto the least of these you do unto me. Matthew 25:40

Trip to the fire station

2010-01-10T20:56:00.000-08:00

So we all loaded up today and went to see Station 3, Scott's first assignment and to meet the guys on his shift. Low and behold the captain working today recognized me from childhood. He even remembered my name without being told....its only been like 20 something years. It turns out that our family farms are right beside each other. He and my dad were friends growing up and he remembered me taking my first steps...talk about a small world after all. Then of course he asked how in the world I got mixed up with the Clemons crew and we all laughed. Raegan had everyone wrapped around her little finger. Everyone just kept talking to her and she was enthralled that they let her "drive" the firetruck. They even gave her a beanie baby bunny before she left. Everyone seemed exceptionally nice and would be great to work with. Unfortunately, all the guys on this shift are moving to another station so who knows who will actually be there. There are still so many details to be worked out with placing the new rookies. Scott will officially start on Wednesday. This station was not his first pick but he is very pleased and thankful to be finished with training and actually going to work. It has actually been a year since he started the whole process and 6 months since he started the training. Wow!!!! What a journey this has been!

To my HERO.....

2010-01-07T21:16:00.000-08:00

Tomorrow marks the end of training....Scott will take his final test and receive his first shift and station assignment. When we got married he chose the song "Hero" because he said he always wanted to be my hero. Well Baby, You are my hero. Now you'll be a hero to others. I am so proud of you for this accomplishment. I'm glad that you have achieved this goal. You made up your mind and you invested your heart. This is a new chapter in our lives and I am so thankful to be a part of it and sharing it with you. I love you. You not only mean the world to me but you are my world. May God always guide you and protect you.

A little update

2009-12-30T13:04:00.000-08:00

First of alll.... I hope you had a Merry Christmas. I know we sure did. It seems like the hype is finally slowing down just in time to go back to work and kick off the new year. Speaking of new year we will experiencing many changes as Scott starts shift work mid-January. We are excited but at the same time anxious about the changes and the schedule. I will be on the home stretch of finishing my degree. So we have many new things in store for us. We have put off many of the projects around the house because of both of our schooling. In the new year we hope to finish some projects and just settle in.
Raegan had a great Christmas. We are still looking for places to put all of her toys. She has really enjoyed herself this season. We have enjoyed our time off together and it has been nice to have some special mother-daughter time. She has developed such a spunky personality. She is truly a mix of the both of us. Seeing her grow before my eyes is amazing. It seems like only yesterday she was so tiny. Where does the time go? Now she's like a mini-grown-up. Before we blink she'll be going off to college.

Missing Him this Christmas

2009-12-25T21:02:00.001-08:00

This is our first Christmas without Grandaddy. Although it was joyous it was hard to forget that someone "special" was missing. Raegan said a few days ago, " Momma I want to go see Grandaddy Thomas. He's special." Then before I could utter a word she said, "Oh yeah he's in Heaven with Jesus." She said, "one day I'll get to see Grandaddy again....when I go to Heaven." This moment was bittersweet. Grandaddy was always a glass half full kinda guy. It was in this moment I found joy in knowing that even at 2 years old my baby recognizes the significance of being in Heaven with Jesus. The seed has been planted and she knows that she wants to go to Heaven. What greater gift could a mother desire than to know that her child wants to be with Jesus? For this gift I am thankful. I have been blessed.

2009-12-05T16:14:00.000-08:00

I let Raegan help me pick out the background since its really her blog. She saw this background and said, "Oh momma so pretty." So here it is pink, pink and more PINK! This girl loves everything pink.

Back to work tomorrow................

2009-11-29T13:57:00.000-08:00

and I am so going to miss being with my girl everyday. I love you, sweet girl.

So thankful!

2009-11-25T19:28:00.000-08:00

Thankful for so many things.....Grandaddy used to say if you've got your health then you've got it all. This year I am reminded of so many suffering people who are unhealthy but just thankful to be alive. I am cherishing the memories of those who have gone on and counting my blessings for the times we've shared. Life is too short to sweat the small stuff and yet the small stuff is what adds up and tears families apart. May God bless you this Thanksgiving with laughter, joy in your heart and memories to last a lifetime.

Congratulations Scott!!!!

2009-11-20T19:55:00.000-08:00

Today my husband made quite an accomplishment, he graduated from rookie school for the Huntsville Fire and Rescue Department. We are so very proud of him. We are thankful that God has given us this opportunity and I just pray that He will keep Scott safe so that he may do His will. Here's where FAITH comes in. This is bittersweet... I am overjoyed, ecstatic, happy in every way but then selfish because he's the love of my life and Raegan's daddy and I want him to be safe and protected and I know that there are risks associated with this job. I know that this is God's plan and I can see his hands all over our lives and the turn of events that led us to this point and that is where I place my FAITH. I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. Thank you Lord for this wonderful blessing you have bestowed upon us. Thank you for loving us when we didn't deserve it.

Scott I hope you know how very proud we are to be your family. You and Raegan are my world!!!! You are the best father and husband and I am honored to be your wife. I love you, always.

Just going through the motions

2009-11-08T15:19:00.000-08:00

It seems that we have been much busier than usual with day-to-day living. Scott is closer to finishing Rookie school which will end Nov. 20th and then he will have EMT school until mid Jan. I am mid-semester in grad school and this has been a tough one to say the least with more assignments than normal. Raegan is growing up fast. She is so active. Her favorite activity of the week is her Puggles class at church which she begs to go to. She is becoming more independent by the day which only reminds me of how precious time with her is. Work has so many challenges with the new curriculum and new staff members, insufficient materials and a rapid pace. Some days it just seems like I'm going through the motions. I have had writer's block and virtually too many responsibilities to tend to that I haven't been able to slow down and post. Grandaddy used to refer to this as burning the candle at both ends. He always reminded me to slow down and take things in...something I have definitely been neglecting to do. I am looking forward to the holidays even though they will be tough. I have done early Christmas shopping so that when the time comes I'll be able to just sit back and relax and take it all in. YEAH right but hey a girl can dream can't she. I do find it less stressful to have the shopping out of the way though! Hope its not Christmas before I get another chance to post but by then maybe things will be a little less hectic around here.

Bagpipes playing in the distance

2009-09-20T19:20:00.000-07:00

Raegan keeps telling us how much she loved the bagpipes, except she calls them the bigpipes. Too cute! Today we attended the memorial service for my Uncle George who lost his battle to brain cancer. The service was beautiful with eloquent eulogies and of course bagpipes. Afterwards we congregated at the Pitts Family Farm for the spreading of his ashes. He never was a dull man and his memorial service depicted that well. His ashes were spread over the farm by way of an airplane and bagpipes played in the distance. Raegan was awakened by the many sounds and she hasn't stopped talking about them all day. Death is never easy but it doesn't have to be eternal. I look forward to the day that I will see my loved ones who have passed on before me. I think about the wonders of Heaven and being in the presence of the one and only Jesus Christ, Lord and Savior. One day we will rejoice as perfect, sinless beings. Thank you, Lord.

Update on Us!

2009-09-19T20:23:00.000-07:00

Well we have a new puppy! Took him to the vet Friday and he weighs 1.10 lbs at 7 1/2 weeks. He's a long-haired applehead chihuahua. Raegan has named him Smokey! He's so UGLY he's cute. I've taken a few pics but haven't uploaded them yet.

We took Raegan to pick out a halloween costume and she picked out a pink butterfly outfit even though she was originally set on being a bumblebee. PINK won her over! I had already bought a bee costume at Party City for $30 but it turned out to be cheap made so we took it back today and went to Old Navy instead and found the butterfly. It turned out to be $16 on sale.....Yeah!

I had class this weekend and it is going to kick my Bootay! I have to read 5 books in about a month and a half and write papers on 4 of them and give a presentation in 3 weeks on the other one. As luck would have it none of the bookstores had a copy so I had to order them online and wait on shipping. I was hoping to atleast get started on one of them. I like to read but I'm not a super fast reader and especially not when it comes to "educational" books. This is supposed to be the easy class. I have another one next weekend. YIKES! I'm nervous already.

Tomorrow we are having a memorial service for my uncle who lost his battle with brain cancer. All of our family has come in from Georgia . This time spent with family will be bittersweet. Losing loved ones is nevery easy.

Next week Scott starts the drill field portion of his training. He is excited to be taking a break from the classroon rigor but I know this part of the training will be physically exhausting for him. I am so proud of him for making it this far and doing so well. He will graduate Rookie school in November and then will start EMT class after that. He is expected to complete the training in January and start shift work soon thereafter.

Kid talk......

2009-09-12T12:38:00.000-07:00

Today as I was sorting laundry Raegan emptied my basket only to put her two little chairs in it. She said to me, "Mommy I in my boat wanna ride." I politely declined and she said with the sweetest smile, "I in now, take my picture." She gave me the best laugh. I love her imagination and her spunky spirit. Thank you God for this precious gift.

An eventful weekend

2009-09-06T19:39:00.000-07:00

Well what's a busy week without an even busier weekend. Friday night I cut my brother's hair and Scott helped a friend work on his farm then we were off to the ballgame only to witness another slaughter for the record books. Then Saturday we were up bright and early for the Bell Buckle BBQ Cook off....YUM YUM! When we got home I did a little shopping with my mother and we had the best time together. Saturday was also a good day for the SEC with Tennessee and Auburn chalking up wins and unfortunately Alabama as well. Sunday we went to church, then lunch, then to the cemetary with my dad and Grammy. I had gotten a gift card from friends at school and decided to use it to purchase a concrete bench for Grandaddy since it was given in his honor. Somehow the rain managed to hold off long enough for us to spend a little time taking care of things. Thank you God. The bench looks nice and I think Grandaddy would be pleased with it.This afternoon I colored and hilighted mom's hair and then cleaned up the house some. Scott cooked us dinner and also cleaned some to help out. Thanks Babe. If all goes well we plan to take Miss Raegan to the zoo tomorrow. We are really excited!!! Hope you enjoy your Labor Day Weekend.

Another Busy Week

2009-09-01T20:19:00.000-07:00

This week has been busy at work. I am doing a 3-day lab with my students. My copier is broken and we're still waiting on our teaching materials. The other teachers are beginning to get the hang of things which makes my job easier. We have 4 new ones to the dept. this year and that makes me the veteran mentor. I love working with new teachers but this year has been filled with many unusual challenges. Progress reports go out this week and then finally a school holiday on Monday. Yipppee!!!!

Scott has a tough week of studying ahead with a state test on Friday. He has been working very hard and I am so proud of him. He is counting down the weeks until graduation. We have adjusted to the changes in the schedule which was such a fear for us in the beginning. Today, we laughed at the fact that we feel "old" going to bed before the news comes on and still being tired in the morning.

Raegan has enjoyed some extra time with my dad (Papa) and Grammy because Grandaddy has had to be with his family this week. Unfortunately on Saturday Scott's aunt passed away unexpectedly and her funeral was today. Raegan has enjoyed her time on the farm visiting the he he's ( horses), moo cows, and goats. Every afternoon she screams bye-byes and night-night sentiments to the barnyard brood. It's the cutest thing in the world.

Today is our nephew Tyler's 9th birthday. Every year that he is another year older marks another year of Scott and I being together. He was only a month old when we officially started dating. I remember when he was little and he would ask me all the details of his babyhood. He loved for me to tell stories about the silly things he did and how he was practically joined at my hip. I couldn't even get out of his sight. Man how time flies. We think back to how we miss those days. Scott and I dressed up as clowns for his first birthday party and we blew up about 100 balloons with a helium tank......then he was scared of us. Imagine that!!!!

We are looking forward to the long weekend....LC Football, the Bell Buckle Cook-off, and then to the zoo or the aquarium. We haven't decided. I am trying to talk Scott into an overnight trip for just the 3 of us but I'm not sure he is going to go for it. I know that my school will be right around the corner and it will soon be too cool to do some of the things that we missed out on this summer. So, I hope it all works out and we can just enjoy each other.

Counting the blessings

2009-08-23T20:43:00.000-07:00

These last few weeks back at work have been a struggle for me. I struggle with the fact that I must leave my sweet little girl everyday and go to work, especially when she cries for me. I know I will never get these days back and I must treasure each moment with her. I have been struggling with the changing routines and uphevel at my job due to new staff and lack of materials. I have been working longer hours and have found myself some days feeling inadequate at my job and at home. I have been stretched too thin and stressed to the max, all the while attempting to keep my composure! We have started back to Wed. night classes at church and my college classes will soon be starting back up. We are adjusting to the exhausting hours and routines that our life entails.

All the while I am thankful that I have this hectic job which helps me to meet my family's needs. I know that others are desperately looking for jobs in this time of economic hardships. Some mothers are single-parents due to the loss of or death of a spouse. Some may be childless and yearning for a child to call their own. Some people may not have a church to call their own. Others may not even know GOD. Some would be thankful to have a messy house to call their own while I complain about keeping mine clean.

Even though this life of mine is often hectic and crazy..... I am proud of it and it's MY life. I am so lucky and blessed to be surrounded by such great friends and family. GOD is good all the time and he knows best. As a wise one once said, "and these times too shall pass."

Changes and Adjustments

2009-08-08T21:07:00.000-07:00

Well this week has brought with it many changes and adjustments. First of all, Scott has started rookie school to train to be a firefighter. We have had to really adjust our schedules by going to bed much earlier and getting up earlier as well. This week has been physically and metally demanding for Scott and myself. I have also started back to work. This year I will be mentoring several other teachers so I have to be on my "A" game. This would be no problem if I had materials to work with but we don't even have books for this year. My classes are small but already I know that I have some course repeaters and some challenging students. I am looking forward to the challenge but at the same time a little overwhelmed by everything. It has been a rough summer and I expected this year to be rough getting started but I do see a light at the end of the tunnel and I have more faith than ever.

I have missed my sweet girl this week but she has enjoyed spending time with all of her grandparents and great-grandmother. I am amazed at how much she is talking now. Wow, I don't give her enough credit. I often say to myself, " she's only 2". I think that there's no way she knows what she's talking about and then she does something else that floors me. I am going to miss her terribly. My former students have been coming by to see me this week and they all ask about her. She's like a little sister to them.

My school doesn't start back until September. I am looking forward to getting another semester out of the way and getting one step closer to graduation. It really seems like this college adventure has moved pretty fast. I am fortunate to have found such a covenient schedule to work with and I am thankful for this opportunity. My principal has referred to our "challenges" as "opportunities" and I believe that is a great outlook. Opportunity seems so much more positive and really your "challenges" are what you make of them.

Just wanted to let you all know that just because I haven't posted in awhile doesn't mean I'm not still reading your blogs. I always enjoy them. Things have just been very busy and I haven't had much time to post. Hope all is well.

Cleaning, Cleaning, and more cleaning

2009-07-20T17:51:00.000-07:00

Well, I've been cleaning house all day and reorganizing my closet and dressers. I have gotten rid of some old clothes and almost finished all the laundry. Hopefully by tonight or in the morning I will be able to say that "every stitch" is clean. I do this every year before school starts back. It makes it much easier for me to get everything in order. Then I do in again at the end of the winter season. I know that our lives are soon going to be very hectic with me starting back to school, finishing my grad work, and Scott starting training to be a firefighter. I am preparing myself as early as possible so that I won't be so overwhelmed. We are really going to have to rearrange our schedules. Scott will be going to work much earlier than he did at the previous job. But the good thing is he'll be home earlier (hopefully). The training has 2 sides: the physical side which I'm sure will be very exhausting and then the mental/academic side which will also be exhausting and challenging. It will be like having two full-time student/workers in the house. The good news is that this will all be temporary. He will finish all of his training by the end of the year and I will finish grad school by June 2010. Pray for us as we embark on a new journey. We know this is all part of God's plan.

How we're doing....

2009-07-16T13:40:00.000-07:00

My sweet little girl is growing up fast. She is 33 in. tall and weighs 25 1/2 pounds. I took her for the 2 yr checkup on July 10th. She was sooooo good at the doctor's office. I can't believe she is 2! She is an absolute blessing to all of us. Her vocabulary continues to blossom. She can really talk BIG now. She counts and sings her ABC's with a little help. We are working on potty training to finally rid ourselves of pull-ups. She is doing well considering all the inconsistencies that the summer has entailed with my Grandaddy's care. We are hoping to establish a sound routine before she goes back to Grandmomma and Grandaddy's house. Sadly, school starts back in a couple of weeks. I wish I could stay home with her a little longer. Just so I could hear her say. "Momma, lets snuggle," at naptime. She is always HAPPY with a smile on her face and a twinkle in her eye. She's a charmer and has a personality that is out of this world. Scott says she's just like me. I am flattered and humbled. Especially that after almost 9 years together he still feels this way. We are truly best friends. Time has strengthened us and our marriage. Simply put, we just enjoy each other. We have fun, no matter what we're doing. He has put in his 2 week notice and will finish this job next Friday. Tomorrow, we go for orientation and he begins firefighter training on August 3rd. We are excited about the changes but we know that they will take some getting used to. The schedule will be the toughest for us and Raegan to get used to but it will be worth it. I am so proud of him and I love him with all of my heart.

A tribute to Grandaddy

2009-07-13T20:26:00.000-07:00

Listening to the humming of the tractor

as the disc hits the ground,

he opens the earth to a new day

where life can be found.

With every hour he plows the dirt

and takes hold of the wind,

leading him back to his childhood

to remind him of where in life he has been.

As he plants the seed...

it reminds him of how he has grown from a child.

The words from the Lord told him

the pasture that he should sow.

The love and care from his family,

was the water that helped him grow.

As he sprouted up to a man,

the crops began to grow.

With each field he gave to the Lord,

the more blessings God would show.

As the fields turned into acres,

the Lord sent people his way,

to help him with the blessings

and prepare for the harvest day.

Little did he know that every soul that was sent his way,

a tiny seed was planted in their hearts and that's why we're here today.

The Lord has called him up for the harvest,

and it's time for him to take his rest.

The memories of fields, overalls, and diesel tractors

are the ways I will remember Mr. Thomas the best.

----Mary Joy Simmons (friend and neighbor)

Happy Birthday, Sweet Girl!

2009-07-05T21:18:00.000-07:00

Our sweet baby girl turned 2 today! Raegan, we are so glad that you enjoyed your special day with family and friends. You all had so much fun in the kiddie pool, slip n' slide, and the swingset. Raegan we are so proud of you. We love you more than you'll ever know.

Love,

Momma and Daddy

5:15 am

2009-07-02T09:51:00.000-07:00

Grandaddy went to be with Jesus this morning. Please pray for healing for our family during this time of grief. We have peace knowing that he is safely in our creator's arms.

Good News Update

2009-06-30T20:28:00.000-07:00

Today we finally received some positive news about my Grandaddy's situation. After weeks, I mean weeks of begging and pleading he is finally going to be moved to a facility in Nashville where his condition can be evaluated by specialists. Today Tad from Kindred Hospital came down to assess him and determine if he was a candidate for their facility. I prayed, Dear Lord please give us favor today, and he did. Tad explained the process to us and he will be leaving in the morning. My dad, my grandmother, and I will be following the ambulance tomorrow. They are sending a "special" ambulance with people specialized in caring for patients with heart conditions and breathing apparatuses. We have been told by the hospital doctor that he has not been stable enough to move. This is frustrating to us b/c now that time has run out on medicare he is suddenly able to be moved when his condition is actually worse. I don't understand it. Well I do but I just don't understand how money could drive people to make decisions that would jeopardize someone's life. I am realistic and I know that my Grandaddy will probably not be at himself like he was when he went in to the hospital but he still deserves the best care possible. I know that God is using this experience to strengthen us and bring us closer to him. Today I watched my daddy cry and pray himself for God to have favor on us, something I haven't witnessed many times. Please continue praying for our family and especially for my Grandaddy.

Beach pics 2009

2009-06-23T22:58:00.000-07:00

An unexpected suprise...

2009-06-20T14:51:00.000-07:00

Today my grandmother received a letter in the mail. It was from the niece of my Grandaddy's high school English teacher. Enclosed was a book report that Ms. Jennings had saved from his English 3 class in high school (presumably the beginning of his junior year). It was dated September 12, 1950. Wow after all these years. That must have been some book report! Ms. Jennings, a 100 year young, old-maid school teacher passed away earlier this year. My grandparents and my great-aunt visited her for lunch frequently and they said she still quoted from Macbeth and Hamlet, never missing a beat. I can remember the stories my Grandaddy told of his experiences in Ms. Jennings class. His infamous stories have inspired me to someday be my students' Ms. Jennings. What a treasure she has passed on to us by sharing his assignment from some 59 years ago. What a blessing.

We are on our way to the hospital soon to take dinner and visit. I will probably stay the night so that my dad can go home and get some rest. I just talked to him and he told me about the book report. I can't wait to read it. He says there is really no change but that they are giving him small doses of morphine to keep him comfortable. He said at this point they are suggesting it is just a matter of time. I know that it will only come to pass in God's perfect timing. He knows best and he will give us all that we need to endure the heartache that we may face.

A whirlwind of emotions....

2009-06-19T19:02:00.000-07:00

Today marks day #25 that my Grandaddy has been in the hospital. At one point he had improved and was expected to go home. Now it doesn't look as if that will ever happen. We are praying even though we have been told that there is nothing more that the doctors can do. He is responsive from time to time by squeezing our hands and blinking to answer us but not talking. He is on oxygen ( but not a ventilator) and a feeding tube. His heart is very weak and at one point was only functioning at 5% but has slightly improved to about 20%. His sodium levels are too high and cannot be maintained. He has a little pneumonia in his right lung and spikes a fever atleast twice a day. They have run out of veins for IV's at this point and they search for new places to give his injections and fluids. However, we have been with him around the clock and even celebrated my grandmother's birthday yesterday. At best, he is stable and holding his own. His defibrillator has been brutal at times but has spared him for the time being. This is the hardest thing I've ever done in my life. I am thankful for summer vacation and wonderful in-laws so that I can take time to be with my family. We are trying to stay positive but also being realistic. One minute I am perfectly okay with the possibility of his passing and another I am selfishly struggling. I just can't explain it. I know that it is completely GOD right now and I am surrendered to his will. Please pray for us all.

Scott was offered the firefighter job which is a dream come true for our family. He is excited beyond belief and so are the rest of us. He understands my dedication to my family but I feel torn because I haven't been able to really celebrate his accomplishment with him due to the circumstances. I had wanted to have a dinner get together and get this really cute firefighter cake for him but it just hasn't worked out. We will be going to the final job offer in a few weeks and I plan to take him out and celebrate just the two of us then but I know its not the same for him. Also, at this time it would be hard for our whole family to be together due to so many circumstances. I am so proud of him and I know this is just the beginning. I love you baby. You mean the world to me and I love you from the bottom of my heart. You're my rock and my best friend. You're the best daddy and husband in the world and I know you will make a great firefighter.

I have some beautiful beach pics to share with you soon. I just haven't had any time to sit at the computer to work on them. This is really only the second night I've had home and I just want to love on my girl and my hubby. They are desperate for their "momma" time.

Update on our BIG day!!

2009-06-03T20:51:00.000-07:00

Scott went to his interview this morning. He feels really good about it. We should hear something back in a few weeks if he gets an offer. There are only 34 positions open and over 100 applicants. (1400 originally) Whew!!!!! I know it is out of our hands but its hard not to think about it.

Raegan got a great report at the dentist. She only cried a little bit at first but she loved brushing her teeth for them and showing off her smile. It also helped that she got a new toothbrush and got her picture made with the "tooth fairy". Then they let her pick out a prize. We went to lunch to celebrate and took her to feed the duck ducks.

We topped off the day with a trip to the hospital to see Grandaddy. He has made tremendous improvements over the last several days. Even though a feeding tube was a hard thing to handle we know it is best for him. The surgery took less time than expected and he was back in his room in only 45 minutes. I was unable to be there b/c of Raegan's dentist appt. and the fact that the surgery wasn't really scheduled for a certain time so it couldn't be planned around.

This busy day kept us going but it gave me little time to think about .....what if. Sometimes staying busy is an unexpected blessing. Thanks my dear friends for checking in on me and for praying for my family. You all mean so much.

BIG day Tomorrow!!!

2009-06-02T20:05:00.000-07:00

Scott has his firefighter interview in the morning. He is really excited to have gotten this far in the process. This is the last hurdle to getting the job. He has taken a written test, a rigorous physical test, background check, and finally......the interview. No matter what the outcome is I want him to know that I am so very proud of him. Lets hope that the interview board is as impressed with him as I am.

Raegan has her first pediatric dentist appointment tomorrow. This kiddo loves to brush her teeth. I hope she likes going to the dentist and has a good experience. I am nervous for her. Maybe because its not so much fun for me as an adult and I remember always being nervous as a kid when I went, even though there was never really anything to ever worry about. If she does well and if it doesn't rain then we have told her that we will take her to feed the duck-ducks.

Grandaddy was in great spirits today. I went to see them at lunch and took my grandmother something to eat. Grandaddy and I had a lot of fun cutting up as usual. We always have had fun together. If you can't tell we've always been really close. He reminded me today that I was his daughter and that my dad was really just a surrogate. Too funny. I love them both. Since my dad is an only child and my grandfather didn't have any daughters I had them both give me away at my wedding. The preacher thought it was crazy but we all thought it was crazy not to. Well I mentioned all if this to say that the ICU specialist stopped by today and they have suggested once again that he have a feeding tube. He is losing weight and is not getting sufficient nutrition due to the complications from eating. It seems that every time he eats or drinks a certain portion of food and liquid goes into his right lung, therefore resulting in aspiration. He seems to be handling the news well. They have told him that it could be temporary but 90% of his food will come from the tube while he can still eat nibbles of comfort food. I am reminded daily by witnessing his struggles that I am truly blessed. I am praying for his healing and progress tomorrow. I also pray that the doctors' work will be guided by the hand of God.

Grandaddy needs your prayers.

2009-05-30T22:03:00.001-07:00

Grandaddy took a turn for the worst last night and we almost lost him. He as improved dramatically and is currently stable but he needs your prayers. The doctor said that he would like to take credit for his turnaround but he could not........ that someone else was responsible. God is completely in control and he has given us one more day with Grandaddy. We feel blessed to say the least. The doctor jokingly said that he must have 9 lives and he used 2 of them last night. I know that God is not finished with him and that gives me joy for the moment. He is very special to me and I am only hoping and praying for more of God's miracles. Raegan got to see him tonight and he was delighted as was she. I cannot begin to describe the unique bond that they share as do we but I can say it is nothing short of beautiful. Please remember him in your prayers as well as our family during this difficult time.

This little girl loves her Great-Grandaddy.

2009-05-28T10:08:00.000-07:00

Sweet birthday kisses.

And squeeze hugs.

Just pics.....

2009-05-27T21:55:00.001-07:00

Grandaddy is back in the hospital.

2009-05-25T19:02:00.000-07:00

* Update: I guess no news is good news. They are doing a lot of tests but we still don't know anything more. He is still very weak and is heart is weaker than before. He is breathing better due to the removal of excess fluids but eating is a challenge for him and he aspirates often due to the trouble swallowing liquids. Please pray for him.

Today we were on our way to the park when we received a phone call that Grandaddy had been taken to the E.R. He was admitted and is staying overnight so that they can watch him. He was given medication to remove excess fluids and seems to be breathing much better and resting well. Please say a little prayer for him.

Finally!!!! Summer Vacation

2009-05-23T20:27:00.000-07:00

It seems that life has been a whirlwind lately with so many things to do. Finally school is out and summer vacation can begin. I have so many BIG plans. Scott is hoping that he gets the job he has been working so hard for. I need to finish OPERATION: De-clutter in the upstairs and the attic. I also have some painting projects around the house to do. We can't wait to go to the beach this year!!!! Raegan is talking about it non-stop. She wants to she the duck ducks and the dolphins. I think she will LOVE it this year! I have 2 more weekend classes until I can take a break from school but then luckily I will have some time off until September. I can't believe I'm actually half way through. I can't tell you what a dream come true this has been for me. Even though times are rough and hectic..... I still feel like I have it all. I am blessed with a beautiful family, health, a home, a job, great friends. I serve a loving and forgiving God and I live in a country where I can worship freely. Really......what do we have to complain about when there are so many out there with so very little. I ran across a quote several months ago and I believe it says it all. "We may not have it all together, but together we have it all."

Happy Mother's Day

2009-05-09T21:33:00.000-07:00

When I was a little girl my Grandaddy often told me,"A man may work from sun to sun but a woman's work is never done." Wow.... how true this seems for me some days as I'm sure it does for others. Take the day off and enjoy it. Celebrate with those who mean the most to you and have a Happy Mother's Day.

Meet Cocoa

2009-05-04T20:16:00.001-07:00

Meet the newest member of our family, Cocoa.

Raegan is much better

2009-04-29T20:06:00.000-07:00

My baby girl is feeling much better today. She has her spunky spirit back. I just love her personality. This girl never meets a stranger. I couldn't ask for a sweeter child and I am so thankful that she is feeling better. Now maybe Momma and Daddy can catch up on some much needed rest. We have a busy rest of the week and then a busy weekend. I have been rigorously preparing my students for the state Gateway which is next week. I have been going in early and staying late to remediate the weakest students. I have been doing this for the past 5 weeks so I hope it pays off for them. Who knows....we'll see next week. I'll be doing a lot of praying. This weekend I have class which will not end until the first week in June. I am counting down the days until summer vacation......we are soooooo close.

Raegan has been sick....

2009-04-27T15:48:00.000-07:00

Raegan has been very sick this weekend, running a fever, so I took her to the doctor today. They ruled out strep, flu, and ear infections which leaves the possibility of teething and/or fever virus. She is feeling better this afternoon and her appetite has picked up a little. She has been very clingy the past few weeks and this weekend was more than usual. I couldn't get out of her sight or she would freak out and have a meltdown........ I feel the terrific....oops I meant terrible two's already. Just kidding!!!! I am flattered that she only wants her momma but at the same time I am exhausted.

A few recent pics

2009-04-20T19:13:00.000-07:00

Who could ever resist these sweet kisses? I know I can't. She's the light of my life.

Saying "cheese" for momma...something she does now every time we grab the camera.

Miss Bed Head herself on Easter morning.

Checking out the birdbath.......Hmmmm.

Riding around in her Cozy Coupe that Mamaw gave her.

Raegan and her stickers....

2009-04-20T15:39:00.000-07:00

Raegan loves stickers and well she finds them everywhere. The other day I walked in the room to this....so I did what most of you did.... I laughed....Laughed a little more and then grabbed my camera. By the way KOTEX seems to be her current favorite sticker maker Ha Ha Ha!!!!!

Whew!

2009-04-18T12:04:00.001-07:00

Well.... I finished one of my classes today. This one was really hard and felt like it sucked the life out of me. I'm glad its over. Now on to the next one. We have a project due May 1st. At this rate we'll be finished in no time. They don't waste any time getting you through the program. WHew

Picture Dilemma

2009-04-12T19:27:00.000-07:00

First of all I'd love to post new pics but there is a dilemma with that. My computer still needs repairs. The battery won't charge and it has been repaired once but thanks to a little helper who dropped it is in need of some TLC. So, I decided to upload the new Easter pics onto Scott's laptop so that I could share them. Unfortunately we have misplaced the charger for the camera and his computer doesn't have a port for media cards. So for those of you who have called or emailed my about pictures.... I am truly sorry.....Hopefully you'll get to see them soon.

Raegan had a wonderful Easter. My brother brought Ty over and they spent the night so that they could go to church with us.We stopped by to see Grammy and Grandaddy since they can't get out and we knew it would make their day to have a visit. We came home, ate lunch and hid and hunted eggs. Mom came by to drop off a little something for Raegan so we drew on the sidewalk with chalk and rode in the Cozy Coupe while she was here. Wow! Raegan sure does love being outside. We enjoyed a wonderful afternoon and I was sad to see the daylight go. I cannot tell you enough how ready I am for summer and warm weather. We have several things planned this summer and I am looking forward to just spending time with my girl.

Happy Easter and God Bless!

Congratulations Scott !!!!!

2009-04-07T20:32:00.000-07:00

Congrats to my sweet hubby on passing the Firefighter Physical Test today. I am so proud of you Baby and I love you so much. Now....... on to the interview process...the third and final hurdle. I'm praying for you for this desire of your heart if it be God's will. XOXOXOXO

Still sick.......

2009-04-05T20:57:00.000-07:00

We're still sick with the crud. Poor Raegan has an awful cough and is cutting teeth. We took the rail off of her crib and converted it into a big girl bed. She is so excited!!!!!! She has to show everyone who comes over. It is precious!

Busy week ahead.

2009-03-30T20:49:00.000-07:00

Wow this week ought to be interesting! My dad is out of town so my brother and I are helping take care of my grandparents. He called tonight requesting haircuts for my Grandaddy and himself. When your almost 75 yr old Grandaddy has a request..... well you do whatever it takes. Raegan and I cooked them dinner and then I cut their hair. You would have thought Grandaddy was getting ready for a date..... it was the cutest thing and we teased him about not staying out too late. He got a big kick out of it, even though he really doesn't go anywhere. I told him that if he stayed out too late we'd pull the string in. Now I know most of you don't know what that means but to us its a classic Grandaddy joke that he used to tell us when we were teenagers wanting to stay out late. Back in the old days (when he was a teen) they didn't have door locks. Instead, they had a hole in the door with a string. When he got home he knew he was locked out if they had already pulled the string in.......which sometimes meant sleeping outside on the porch. I wonder if we practiced that today would it encourage kids to be home by curfew.

This week I start before/after school remediation which will be ongoing for the next 5 weeks to prepare our kids for the state Biology test. I will add 2 hours a day to my teaching/ work day as well as do the ACT administering on Saturday. Scott is still training to pass the physical part of the Firefighter test. He has passed the written portion and now is eligible for the physical test which requires the completion of a rigorous obstacle course in 10 minutes. Did I mention while wearing 75 lbs. for part of it and 50 lbs. for the other half. He has been working with his dad daily and they are planning to set up a mach course this weekend. The test is next Tuesday. He's only had 2 weeks to prepare. YIKES!!! I'm nervous for him.

Raegan is talking more and more every day and I continue to be amazed by all that she can say and do. She is very quiet and laid back most of the time but when she warms up to you then she is wide-open. She really takes after us so much. We are trying hard to teach her some manners. She is saying please, thank you, and ma'am but its a work in progress. We are trying to teach her as we go....don't know if its the best but you live and learn.

We have so much going on this week that I think I will need to schedule a nap. Who knows....maybe 2 naps. Even though I have more responsibilities to take care of than I could've ever imagined, I am thankful that God has provided me the means to care for my family and their needs. One day the tables will be turned. I will be a little slower, a little older, my hair a little more gray, my spirit a little more broken and I hope that when that time comes that someone will love and care for me unconditionally. Time is a precious gift.

Back to work, staying busy

2009-03-24T20:53:00.000-07:00

Well its been a little tough to be back at work while my sweet Raegan is having fun at home. I miss her sweetness when I'm gone. Work has been keeping me busy. My kiddos make me laugh everyday but being with them never compares to my baby girl. Sometimes I think of them like little souls trapped in teenage bodies. They require the same love, attention, and affection as the little ones. Its funny how that works out, huh? They just want you to love them! Well apparently since my principals know I'm a homebody and that I will probably not be leaving my hometown High School anytime soon they've been training me to do all sorts of things. I NEVER miss work unless I am really bad sick but this semester I have had to get subs for these training meetings. These sessions are harder than my real job and adults aren't nearly as fun as teenagers to work with. Today we had another all day meeting and the week before Spring Break we had one (plus 2 others before that). Then they said that we'll have atleast one more before school is out. Most people have no idea what teaching is really about. I never realized the time dedication that it takes before I started teaching. However, the rewards are unimaginable. I have been teaching just long enough to really start seeing some of the rewards firsthand. Teachers in a small town are almost like local celebrities. Today I was in a store with my mom and after about 15 people waived and spoke she finally said ....."Do you know everybody in this store?" The other day a girl came up to me and Raegan and introduced me to her mom and proceeded to tell me about college and what she was doing now. She told her mom that after she had me in 10th grade she was inspired to be a biology teacher. Her mom thanked me for the influence I had on her. Of course this was an act of God b/c it just happened to be one of those days that I was thinking..... why in the world do I do this job? Most people think people teach to have summers off but that's only partly true. Raegan is the real reason I desire my summers, not the job.

Well I didn't really mean to ramble about work. I was going to tell you about Raegan (since this is really her site). She loves horses!!!! She plays non-stop with horses and babydolls. She has the heart of a farm girl and I hope one day that she can experience life on the farm. She has compassion for animals and like her mommy would take them all in like Elly Mae Clampett. My husband really didn't know what he was getting into when he married me. I told him that FAMILY was my priority and that if he wasn't a family guy then I wasn't the girl for him. Well, I forgot to tell him about my BIG HEART for animals. He found out the hard way with 3 dogs and a cat. We had a sugar glider that died and I have a turtle at my dad's still. I've had my dog since I was 17 and my turtle since I was 13. Yes, the turtle is almost 15!!!!!!! I have had everything from wild animals to farm animals and even a snake. I said all of this to say that my little Raegan has this same love for animals. (Everything but bugs!) This weekend she did pick up worms so I see a fishing buddy in daddy's future.

Well I guess I'll sign off for the night. I would like to post new pics but they're all on my laptop which is still sick so I am having to use Scott's for now. Have a good week.

A beautiful week

2009-03-19T17:07:00.000-07:00

The weather has been beautiful most of the week and we have gotten so many things accomplished. Monday, I cleaned house and spent some much needed time with Raegan. We played babies all day. I've never seen a tot in love with babies more than her. It is precious. Tuesday, we made Raegan's favorite breakfast and thenScott and I along with our little helper took the trash to the dump and cut the grass. Then he went fishing while we took a nap. Ooops forgot to mention that we had lunch and went to the park so somebody could slide. She loves to slide, especially on the BIG ones. Then we went to Target where I got the deal of the week. They had 2G Kodak SD cards for $9 but they were out. It was our lucky day. The nice man in electronics substituted the better Lexar version for the same price. Wednesday, we had our taxes done and then cut my grandparents grass at the farm. It takes a couple of hours when we both cut w/ 2 mowers. Raegan fell asleep 3 times while riding. This girl loves mowing grass....just like her daddy. She keeps going to the shed saying...."Please".... with the cutest little expression, hoping that she can ride. Her Grandaddys have ruined her, with a little help from momma and daddy of course. We also visited my grandparents and then Mamaw stopped by to visit us. She played with Raegan so that I could cut daddy's hair. Today, we took care of errands but then snuck in a little fishing time for the afternoon. It was too windy for Raegan and me so we came back home while daddy indulged. It has been really nice to have him off from work for a few days. His girls have really enjoyed it. Even though we didn't do anything really spectacular we enjoyed our time together and we did get a lot of things accomplished. Now.... if I could just get motivated to do that paper for my class.

Spring Break Eve Countdown

2009-03-12T20:11:00.000-07:00

We have had a busy week at work getting ready for Spring Break. Its the end of the grading period. Meetings have kept me busy at work all week. I've had projects due for my class and to top it off we've all had the stomach bug recently. Things have been a little crazy around here. Tomorrow is Spring Break Eve and I cannot tell you how glad I am to be spending a whole week off with my baby girl. Need I mention that she's not a baby anymore. She's a grown up trapped in a tiny body. She amazes me so much at how fast she's learning. Sometimes I truly underestimate her abilities. She's smart, funny, and so full of energy. I've often said that I'm her cheerleader for life and I totally believe that. Children are so impressionable. We spend so much time trying to mold them into what we want them to be instead of just teaching them and then accepting and loving them for who they turn out to be. Don't get me wrong... I have high expectations for her, maybe sometimes too high. I just want her to be proud of herself and confident in her own skin. Raegan, you will always be momma's baby girl. Know that I will always love you for who you are. I am proud every day just because I get the privilege of being your mommy. Someone said recently that to love a child is not something that is ever earned and since it isn't earned then it will never diminish because of any unfavorable circumstance.

2009-03-05T20:22:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday Little Brother. I love you more than you'll ever know.

Love,
Sister

Snow day but no snow...

2009-03-02T10:28:00.000-08:00

Ahhhhhhh! Enjoying a day off from work with my sweetheart. It snowed yesterday and we got the day off today for "weather". I'm not complaining.

Raegan is talking up a storm. She is repeating everything we say. Even though some of the things she says is a little distorted we can still understand them. She keeps calling the dog Mae but her name is Macey. She can also say Memaw which made her very happy. Last night she got on the phone and said sing Momma. My heart just melted. I think my favorite is Please. Now if I could just get her to say Thank you with all those requests. She has cut her stomach teeth completely and is still cutting her eye teeth. Potty training is still a work in progress. She is exclusively in pull-ups now but I'm just not brave enough to let her go all day in real underwear. It seems like she is growing way too fast. I was holding her last night telling her about when she was a little baby and how tiny she was compared to now. She loves for me to tell her about being a baby which is a little sad because she doesn't see herself as one anymore. Instead, she plays momma wrapping her babies up in their blankies and caring for them. She begs to have her nails painted and play dress up. Where did that time go? People see how big she's getting and always inquire when there will be another one. I'm still in grad school right now so we're still waiting until that task is complete but it doesn't get far from our thoughts.

Count your blessings...

2009-02-27T21:18:00.000-08:00

Today I received disheartening news that my friend and former co-worker had lost her 34 yr old husband. He left about 8:30 to go get medicine for their daughter. She put the kids to bed and was relaxing when she started to get concerned because he had not made it home yet and he had been gone for 2 hours. She called him but didn't get an answer so she called his parents. His mom stayed at the house in case the children woke up and she and her father-in-law went looking for her husband. They found his truck where it had gone down an embankment on the road that they live on. The truck was in the creek and he was pinned under it with his head underwater when they found him. I can't imagine the devastation that they must be feeling. She is beating herself up over it because after he left she found some medicine in the cabinet that would have worked so he hadn't really needed to go after all. Then she said... what if she had started looking sooner then maybe they could have found him in time. I just can't believe it. All day I have been thinking about how that could have been so many of us in the same situation. That could be our sons, daughters, husbands, wives, parents going through that very same thing. My heart is breaking for them and many prayers are going up on their behalf. I am counting my own blessings. I couldn't get through the day without letting Scott know just how very much he means to me. I thought about relationships in my own life. I thought about how sometimes things that happen are trivial and sometimes we don't realize it until its too late. This week in my devotion study on Esther one point has seemed very clear to me. Holding a grudge against someone who has hurt you may seem justified based on their actions but instead the grudge continues to hold you in bondage to them. Forgiveness is difficult but it humbles us and allows us the freedom to love again with a free heart. Today I am counting my blessings, especially those most precious in my life. I am so thankful for my family, immediate and extended. God has blessed me with them and I will honor Him by loving and cherishingthem.

Juggling...

2009-02-22T22:09:00.000-08:00

Do you ever feel that sometimes life is a juggling act? It seems like we are juggling so many things. There are responsibilities, friends, family, relationships, commitments, finances, errands, appointments, jobs, co-workers, church, sports, helping others, needs, wants, time shortages, grad school, cooking, cleaning, laundry......etc. Some days it seems to never end. These things we juggle bring unnecessary stress and chaos to our lives if we let them. Sometimes we find ourselves losing sight of whats really most important all the while trying to appease others. I don't know about you but sometimes I wish I could minimize the stress and just slow down and truly enjoy life instead of juggling my way through it.

2009-02-15T15:57:00.000-08:00

Sometimes you get a special card that touches your heart...... I am sharing part of my Valentine's card from Scott.

I asked the Lord

to bless me

with an angel

in my life.....

A woman

I could treasure

as a loving friend

and wife.

And so you came

from Heaven

as the answer

to my prayer.

And changed

my world forever

through the precious

love we share.

The longer we're married

the more I can see

What a wonderful blessing

your love's been to me.

The longer we're married,

the more I'm aware,

When I asked for an angel,

God answered my prayer.

I will love you Always and Forever because you are the greatest thing that has ever happened to me .

Love,

Scott

Happy 30th Valentine's Birthday!

2009-02-14T11:14:00.000-08:00

Today is my sweetheart's 30th birthday. Wow it doesn't seem like its really been 9 yrs since we first met. He is my best friend....my soul mate....the other half of me. He's the one who knows my worries, hopes, dreams, and joys. He knows how to make me laugh when I feel like crying and he knows how to comfort me when I'm down. He pretends to like my cooking when sometimes its not the best. He keeps me grounded but lifts me up. He's my prince charming.... my one and only.

We tried to make this b'day extra special by showering him with gifts and goodies. Raegan and I even sang to him! I got him a new tackle box that he said he NEEDED and of course some clothes that he said he didn't need (I disagree) and then gave him money for a new rifle scope. I made homemade (all the way from scratch) biscuits and gravy, bacon, and hashbrowns for breakfast. I am making a cake later!!!!

Although this is his special day we also wanted to LOVE on little Raegan and let her know how special she is to us. She has been wanting some Minnie Mouse sippy cups for a while so we got her the cups, plate, bowl, and silverware set. We also found some really cute Minnie pj's that were hard to resist. What's Valentine's without a little candy? We got her a small pac of M&M's (her fave). She was so excited. I'll have to post some pics later.

Happy Valentine's Day !!!!!!

Flor is coming home soon!

2009-02-10T21:36:00.000-08:00

Update: We went to the airport to meet precious Flor and her mommy Amanda. She is adorable in every way. There were soooo many people there.... It was nice to meet some of the blogger community and see their little ones. Raegan was amazed by all the little girls.

My friend Amanda is bringing her sweet daughter Flor home Friday. Please be praying that everything goes smoothly with their travel and adoption finalization. Stop by their blog to congratulate them.

Positive Update

2009-02-09T17:08:00.000-08:00

Grandaddy is doing much better. He is alert and beginning to communicate more. We visited him yesterday and he was completely aware that we were there. Raegan loved on him more than she ever has. We have been told that he will be dismissed on Feb. 20th. At this point, we are hoping that he gets to come home. We feel that he can get the best care at home. The facilities that he has been at before have not provided the best care for him. It will be hard work for everyone, especially my grandmother. Her dedication to him is an example of true love. She is willing to care for him as long as she can which is such a sacrifice on her part. She is one incredible woman and I love her very much.

Visiting Grandaddy

2009-02-04T20:50:00.000-08:00

We visited Grandaddy yesterday and he slept through our entire 2 hr visit. He didn't even know that we were there. He was up for 12 hours before he went to bed and they worked him really hard with therapy. They are getting him into an early routine startig at 6 am every day. Raegan got to visit with Grammy which was good for the both of them. She really misses Grammy. She almost won't let her put her down and if she does then she runs right back to her to give her kisses. She has been spending some quality time with my dad and she is getting a little attached to him which I am glad to see. She is happy staying with him and doesn't cry for momma as much. He has kept her some since her other Grandaddy and Grandmomma have been sick. Raegan is talking up a storm....when she wants to. Tonight we called to check on them and she was talking on the phone telling them all the new words she is learning. Too funny because sometimes they come out a little different than you expect. I'll have to post a video clip soon. She is growig up way too fast! I just can't believe it sometimes. Her Daddy and I are just in awe of her. Parenting her is definitely a rewarding job. Speaking of new parenting...
My friend Amanda just found out that she will be bringing her daughter Flor home next weekend. She has waited a long time for this day. Jump over to her blog and congratulate her.

Update

2009-01-31T19:42:00.000-08:00

My Grandaddy has been moved to Healthsouth Rehabilitation Center as of Friday. He stays very sleepy and sometimes sleeps through the whole visit. He is recognizing people more frequently now. My dad was walking away and he called out his name which is an improvement as he was not recognizing him before. He knows me and Raegan but the other day he told my grandmother that she was me. Then he saw me and corrected himself. We all got a big laugh out of it, including him.

This week has been a rough one. Raegan is getting over her sickness and we are all trying to stay well. Grandaddy (Scott's dad) didn't fair so well. He has been under the weather for a few days so Scott took off and stayed home with Raegan so that Grandaddy could get some rest. Grandaddy Steve (my dad) came over for about an hour so that Scott could go to the dentist. He is going to have his wisdom teeth taken out soon.

It was nice to have a break from class this weekend. I only have one weekend off in Feb. and that will be busy with Valentine's Day/Scott's Birthday. He's turing 30! Wow!!! He was only 21 when we started dating. Where did the time go?

I hope to visit some of your blogs and leave comments. I just haven't had the time lately.

Update on Grandaddy

2009-01-28T16:02:00.000-08:00

Gradaddy seems to be in good spirits today. His response is still delayed as well as his memory. Last night he went for some tests but we do not know the results yet. He seems to be resting most of the time. In fact, yesterday they had a hard time waking him up for therapy. All we know right now is to be hopeful and pray that he recovers. We do know that he will have to stay at a care facility for a while after he gets out of the hospital to do some therapy and then he may home after that. It is so hard to accept that he may not get any better than this but I am thankful that the Lord has spared him and that every day with him s one more than the day before.

Thank you for the kind emails and comments that you have left me but mostly thank you for your prayers.