~The view from my neck of the woods~

My, my.....how time flies.............

2012-01-19T17:24:00.002-05:00

Looking back, I realize that it has almost been a year since I blogged. So much of our lives have changed in this past year! God's love and mercy have surrounded me and my family. We have been given blessings that I dreamt about for so long. We have added many friends to our lives and have been incredibly blessed by how the Lord is working in our hearts.

One of the first major changes is our address! We purchased a new home in May of 2011. Just the very fact of me saying it still makes me feel as if I am dreaming! I had such specific things I wanted, that I thought I would never find that "perfect" house for us, unless we had it built! Since that was not an option, we began our search...........and what a long search it was! It felt like years, but I guess in all actuality, it was months! lol! To my friend and Realtor, Charnelle, it probably felt like an eternity too! We knew that this home was made for us as soon as we walked in the door........truly. It was everything that we wanted and more! We have all adjusted well and the kids are enjoying their new schools!

Speaking of school...........about a month after moving into our new home, I received my acceptance letter into Nursing School. What an amazing blessing and surprise! I know that EVERYTHING happens in God's timing, but this was such a great example of HIS perfect timing! I am so happy to say that I am only 1.5 miles from my school and 1 mile from the Mr. Man and Gertie's school! We were spending so much money in gas and the time driving was a huge burden on everyone. School has been a challenge........They say if you can make it past the first semester, you can make it....I am happy to say that I am in my 2nd semester! I have learned so much and am excited to see what the future holds for me in this field!

I decided to write to catch everyone up on some major changes in our lives, and to get the therapeutic effects from it! I will try and be better about blogging............

Until then....
Blessings,
Kim

2011-03-01T12:24:00.002-05:00

Today is a new day. One filled with possibilites.

You see that is what I have to tell myself.

I have been struggling lately. Hard.

I have bought ring-side tickets to the hottest show going right now.

Satan has been selling his lies to me, and I have bought them.

Every one.

You know the ones, I am sure that they are familiar to most of us.

"You are not a good wife, mother or friend.
Your house is filthy and you could be doing better on your school work.
Look at your "temple" is this a place where God truly resides?
You should just give up."

Feelings of being so overwhelmed with it all have consumed me for months. I think that I have done a pretty good job of hiding behind the smiles, but knowing that it is a lie just makes me feel worse.

Then, just like He ALWAYS does, my God reminds me that I am His.

I am His creation.

Not perfect, just forgiven.

Within my flaws is where I find His strength. Strength for days when even my fat clothes don't fit, and when my children don't listen to a word I have said. Strength when I don't think I can muster up enough gumption to do my homework or be the wife that I am called to be.

Philippians 3:12-14 says: "Not that I have already attained or am already perfected; but I press on, that I may lay hold of that for which Christ Jesus has also laid hold of me. Brethren, I do not count myself to have apprehended; but one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead. I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus."

Oh yeah, that'll preach! We are to strive DAILY to reach the goal. I think of this verse like a runner: they may be able to run, but they are constantly after a better time or speed. They are constantly looking forward to the next time that they run so that they may get to the ultimate goal. They know that they are really only competing against themselves. It is never about another runner, just trying to do better than their last run. They don't look behind, because the journey has to be your own.

I realize that life is one big run. Although I am not a "runner", I know that this constant track that I am on can get scary. It can be overwhelming. It can paralyze us with fear.

I know that I am called to be different, but when I act like the world and carry the same fears and worries of the world, is that being different? I need to be reminded that God doesn't ask us to have mountains of faith to move the world...........He asks us to have the faith of the grain of a mustard seed.

Really?

That's it?

Simple and uncomplicated.

Gotta love it.

So while I am praying to rid myself of these ring-side tickets, I will pray that God will move mountains in your life.

Have an incredibly blessed day and remember that God loves you.

Even when your fat clothes don't fit!

Blessings,

Kim

There are no words......

2009-12-17T16:19:00.001-05:00

(I started writing this a few weeks ago, and could not finish it. I wanted to put these feelings into words.)

I realize that I have not posted anything since September 27. I would normally apologize and tell you that I have been insanely busy, but this time it is different.

Three days after I posted that, my world was turned upside down. If you recall, I asked for prayer for my Uncle. He went into the hospital on September 25 for an open lung biopsy. We were told that it is very routine and that he should be home in two days. I spent the day with him before and after his surgery. On the following day, Saturday, I couldn't go to the hospital because I had a 1,000 word paper due on Sunday (I know, procrastination :o/ ). On Sunday, we took the kids and spent the day with him at the hospital. He was laughing and joking around with the kids....just like normal.

On Monday, I had planned on going later that evening, but couldn't go. I knew from my Mom that he had taken a turn for the worst and was not doing well.

They had intubated him.

One of the things that he never wanted.

So on Tuesday, I went to the hospital to see him. I can hardly describe what I saw. That was not my Uncle there. The man that I have seen all my life to be so strong and courageous was lying there....unconscious, hooked to machines.

Every fiber in my being knew that this was wrong. It seemed inconceivable. He was just talking to us and being his normal, aggravating self!

Seeing him like this made me recall a conversation that we had just had the week before as I took him to the Dr. He made the comment that he made my Mom the health care surrogate. I was confused because I had always been the emergency contact and EVERYTHING else in his life. He explained that he didn't put me because "You wouldn't pull the plug"......I laughed and said that if he coughed the wrong way I would pull it!

You see, that was our way. We were always honest with one another, but tried to make even the hard stuff lighter with laughter. He has the same sense of humor as me and we would always have a great time laughing and talking together.

I knew that he would not want to be hooked up to that machine if the doctors gave him no chance. We waited to see what they would say. It felt like forever. There were many times that we thought that his last breath was very near.

He just held on. I am not sure what he was holding on for....I cannot think of anyone else that wanted to see Jesus as much as him! When he accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior, he was a changed man! You know, it was like that old Allen just died and a new creation was born, just like the Bible tells us. He was more compassionate and had a servant's heart. He worked at the church that he attended. He was able to use his gift of being a carpenter for God's glory! He took great pride in all that he did there. But beyond that, he was different with his family. He really took time with us. He absolutely adored my kids!

When I was pregnant with Mr. Man, he kept saying that he was a boy...he just knew it! He was such a wonderful person for him to be around. He loved to hunt and fish....he took alot of pride knowing that he would be the one to teach Mr. Man those things. He actually did take him fishing for the first time. I talked about it here. Those pictures are more priceless to me now than anything. I am thankful that I have those memories to look back on.

After given the news that we were dreading, we knew that it was time to say goodbye. I am so thankful that I had a few minutes alone with him. Time to let him know how I felt about him and reaffirm that I was happy and excited that he would soon see Jesus.

Uncle Allen took his final breath on September 30, 2009.

It still seems so bizarre to utter those words.

Somehow, I feel like this must be some horrible joke. I just know that he will come through the door at any moment. Unfortunately for me, this is reality. But to him....it is Heaven.....literally!

I don't mourn for him, as I know that he is with our Lord and Savior. I mourn for me. For the times when I need his wisdom and love. Times when my kids need that touch that only he good give. Those special memories that I just knew he would be a part of.

I am so thankful for the time that he was present in my life. I cannot explain to you how deeply I cared for this man. He was so much more than an Uncle. On Thanksgiving, it was truly surreal for him to not be at the dinner table. Christmas will just not be the same without him here.

So when you are with your family this Christmas season, hold on a little longer, squeeze a little tighter, and let them know how you feel about them. Life is but a vapor. Pettiness should not factor in to a true, loving relationship.

What I would give to have 5 minutes with him. I believe that he knew how I feel about him. I know that given the opportunity, he wouldn't come back. Would you?

Thank you for allowing me to share a piece of my heart with you. I don't take it lightly that you have chosen to read my blog. I count it a privilege!

I pray many blessings upon you and your family for this Christmas season!

Blessings,

Kim

Transparency......

2009-11-09T17:26:00.002-05:00

There are a few things about myself that I realized over the last few months.

One of these things is my lack of transparency.

Oh, I used to be very transparent. Too transparent at times. I would give my life story at the drop of a hat. I would give details that may be considered "too much information."

It is a little different now. (except for those "lucky" few people lol!)

You see, I have gotten a little more careful with my life. Who I choose to let in and give access to. I consider it a privilege to be allowed to roam around in someones life. If I choose to let you in, that means that I will listen to your advice and concerns for my life.

There is power in that.

I have realized that I allowed to many people to have free roam in my life. I don't have ill feelings to anyone, I just recognized that such freedom shouldn't be given lightly. Nor should it be out of habit. The ability to solicit advice is powerful. When we receive advice from someone, we are allowing them to walk around in our lives. We can never underestimate the power of advice given. Words are very powerful. They can change the way we think about an issue. Particularly if we are not grounded in the Word.

I have recently went through some pretty life changing events that are both public and private. During these times, I have endured my share of heartache, as well as joy and confirmation. I have learned that not everyone will be happy with my decisions, nor will they understand them. That has been a hard concept for me......that while I know I am being obedient, others may not like my decision and give me grief about it.

It is in the times of conflict or great resolution that I must rely solely on God. HE will be delighted with my joys and hurt in my sorrow. He can and will take the place of that well meaning friend who can let you down. He can allow you to be completely open and honest without the fear of being rejected.

There is a certain freedom that I have felt since all of my life changes have been made. Freedom in knowing that I am being obedient, is among the first joys that I am experiencing. I also feel that for the first time, my priorities are in order. The way that God has intended them to be.

1) God
2) Family (including the sub-heading here-husband, THEN kids)
3) Church
4) Everything else

For so long, I have been very out-of-whack with my priorities. It has left people feeling unimportant in my life. I want these things that I have learned to stick.

*For me to have a closer relationship with my Lord and Savior than I did today.
*For me to adore and value my husband and treat him the way that God has intended.
*For my kids to know beyond a shadow of a doubt that I think they are the best things since sliced bread. To raise them in Godly wisdom and love.
*To value the friendships that God has placed in my life. I have realized that friendships are not a place to crave excess. The friendships that weigh you down or do not make you a better person are not needed.
*To have a desire to see everyone in my life come to know Christ and that there should be evidence of growth in their lives.

There are many other things that I have learned lately. Some things are private and I cannot share them here. I would love to know that everyone that reads this blog is on my side and can understand where I am coming from, but that just isn't the case. So here I go......I am choosing to be a little less transparent.

I hope that you have been living a blessed life since the last time I posted!
Blessings,
Kim
Next post....an update on what has been happening in my life since I last posted.

A quick little update.....

2009-09-27T21:13:00.002-04:00

It seems that blogging has been fewer and farther between. It is not my intentions to leave anyone hanging, it has just been an interesting few months! Please stick with me!

So many life changes in such a short time, I hardly know where to begin.

I would have to say that the girls are doing well in school. They both got their interims and made all A's and one B!! I am a proud Momma!

We are trying to get settled in with our new schedule. With me going to school two days a week, I have to make some adjustments to our normal activities. It has been a struggle at times, but I think that it will work...eventually!

My Uncle has had some health issues that we have been dealing with. If you think of it, add him to your prayer list. His name is Allen. We appreciate all the prayers that we can get!

I have applied to the nursing program. The application period is from September 1-30, so I will hopefully know something the second week of October. I truly have a peace about whatever may happen. I know that everything happens in God's perfect timing!

Kevin has also started school! I am so proud of him! He wanted to go for a while, but I think that fear held him back. How many times have I allowed the enemy to lie to me? Too many to name! But what is important is that he is going now! I know that he will be great at his new profession!

I tried to give you tidbits of what's what....I will post more later!

I hope that today found you in the House of the Lord!

Blessings,

Kim

Just wanted to share.......

2009-09-17T21:58:00.003-04:00

I found this little gem online the other day......................

"When we honestly ask ourselves which person in our lives means the most us, we often find that it is those who, instead of giving much advice, solutions or cures, have chosen rather, to share our pain and touch our wounds with a gentle and tender hand. The friend who can be silent with us in a moment of despair or confusion, who can stay with us in an hour of grief and bereavement, who can tolerate not knowing, not curing, not healing and face with us the reality of our powerlessness, that is a friend who cares." ~Henri Nouwen

This was a neat "Amen" moment for me. I think that so many times, we feel the need to fix things for the people we love. Sometimes, we may just need to be present. I pray that I can be these things for those who I love!

I hope that you have had a blessed week!

Blessings,

Kim

Those two little words......

2009-09-15T00:16:00.002-04:00

Okay, I must admit it.

I have been a horrible blogger! Not that you didn't notice or anything!

I have so much that I would like to share with all of you. But here's the thing...........

I am waiting.

Waiting for God to give me the green light.

I want to share only what He would have me share. These last couple of weeks have been very enlightening. I have attempted to share ALOT, but then am prompted to guard my tongue.

So, I will share with you, I PROMISE!!!!!

I just had to write and let everyone know that I am alive and well..........

I figured that I must do this, because one of my friends recently posted on my facebook page, "Blog, please". So for you Sabrina, I am blogging.

Sorry for the lapse in non-writing. I will try really hard to be better!

I hope that you are having a wonderful week!

Blessings,

Kim

The grades are in..........

2009-08-14T23:12:00.002-04:00

After what seemed like an eternal semester, I am finally finished. I thought that it would never end!

I am glad to say that I ended with an A in Humanities 2 and a C in Intermediate Algebra.

I am perfectly happy with my C. thankyousomuch.

I have never claimed to be a math genius, so mediocre suits me just fine!

This next semester should be pretty interesting.....

I am only taking 2 classes again,

BUT...........

since I didn't register until later, I have to drive 50 miles one way to another campus!! That will bless ya!

ALSO.........

I am taking Lit and Algebra. Oh yeah, I am a glutton.

We shall see how this all pans out!

I hope that you are all enjoying the last bit of your summer!

I can't wait for school to start again for the kids.....I am tired of all the fighting!

Blessings,

Kim

A & D...........

2009-08-07T00:30:00.002-04:00

And I am not talking about the ointment, people!!

Those two letters are my grades!

Oh yeah.......

I got an A in Humanities 2!!!!!

BUT...................................

I have a D in math right now. Yeah, I know. Kinda sucks.

Fortunately, my teacher is allowing me to retake 2 tests! I am not sure if that is a blessing or a curse. Cause I think that he is reopening them in hopes that I actually pass them!

What a novel idea!

I am surprising even myself with my frustration at anything below an A! I feel totally different about school as I am in my 30's. It feels good to care about my grade and want nothing less than the best! A huge difference from my high school and early college days!

So, as I am finished with Humanities, I will be finished with my math class next week.

Pray for a miracle, cause I sure need one!

I hope that all is well in your life and that you don't have any math to do!

Blessings,

Kim

I'm not who I used to be..........

2009-07-23T13:17:00.003-04:00

Growing up, you never realize the impact of your actions and how they WILL affect you as you are an adult. I can remember hearing people say that a certain decision can follow you for the rest of your life. But when you are 16 years old, you know more than anyone and don't believe their lies! How ironic that now, I am eating those feelings!

I have been going through alot of life changes recently that have made me reflect on certain behaviors of the past. It can be very painful to relive the past, and this case has been no exception. When I was growing up, I was like everyone else, and had the need to belong. Belong to a group who believed that I was valuable, regardless of what that value was. I remember having this group of friends who made me feel special and validated that "I was a good person" Funny. Real funny now. Those same friends that I had then.....where are they now? I have only 1 remnant of that past life. Only one friend who has stuck by me through thick and thin. Only one friend that loves me still, in spite of all my many faults.

I am so far from perfect. I know that the only one who will truly love me unconditionally is my Lord and Savior. And because He loves me, He shows me when I make a mistake.

OUCH!!!!

Sometimes, the lessons that He teaches us can be very painful. They can reduce us to mere shells of the people that we thought we were.

I would like to explain. See, as I have been going through many changes in my life, I have looked back at many aspects of my existence. I realize that I can be hateful, manipulative, judgemental, and basically nothing that Jesus wants to see in me. I realize that I have the tendency to hold grudges and feel like I have reason to be angry. I often validate why I feel a certain way and hold onto those feelings like a turtle. I will only let go when it thunders!

What has happened lately?

Alot of thunderstorms!

I have been forced to look inside my sorry, no good heart and try and clean it up. I have looked inside, and I am disgusted. I can't believe that the Creator of the Universe still chooses to love me, cruddiness and all!

I would like to share a few things that I have learned.

*I have learned that I need to check myself before I start being so judgemental.

I know that I am human by nature and I will always try to make myself feel better about a situation. I will probably try and skirt around the fact that it could be my issue and not yours. I need to remember the saying "Don't judge that person until you have walked a mile in their shoes". How true! Funny thing is that I always believed it for myself, I mean, I didn't want you judging me, but I didn't want to walk in your shoes!

*I know that EVERYTHING happens for a reason. I believe that God will add or take away things from our lives for His purpose. I don't always understand what is happening, but I have to believe that somehow, it will bring honor and glory to Him.

*We have to be still. This is a hard one for me, I am a busy-body and a "fix-it" kind of person. Be still. Enough said.

*I have to remember that His grace is sufficient. When I feel like I am being slighted or worse, I need to know that His grace, love and mercy will sustain me!

*People will not always be on your side or understand your position. We must be obedient anyway! Faithfulness is not judged by what others would do, it is by your own actions and heart. I cannot ride on the coattails of another and expect the blessings that God wants to give me!

These are just a few things that I have gotten spiritual spankings over. God has really nailed these principles into my skull........but I am hard-headed, and will definitely need a refresher course again! I am realizing that I am responsible for me and only me. I can't play Holy Spirit Jr. and try to twist His will into my own.

In saying this, I know that I have a long way to go. A lifetime of dying daily to make His will my own. I believe that His grace, love and mercy are enough for me. I pray that when I see people "who knew me when...." that they see that there is something different about me. I pray that they see Jesus in me.

I hope that you and your family have a blessed weekend! Attend the church of your choice, but go!

Blessings,

Kim

Fill me up.....

2009-07-21T17:22:00.000-04:00

You know the times when you feel like you are flailing about? When you feel as though your whole world is crashing around you....at light speed-and you can't do anything about it? The times when you need to have your cup filled?

It is during these times that I seek God's face the most. It is during those times that God reveals Himself to me more and more. I long to have those intimate moments with my Lord more than ever during those difficult times. I know that it is cliche'd but I sometimes lean on Him so hard in the valleys, but forget to praise him when I am on the mountain top. I never want to forget that the same God that got me through the hard times is the God that sustains me in the good times. I should offer praises up to him for EVERYTHING that He does!

I want to be the kind of woman that is so sold out for God that my cup continually runneth over. Don't get me wrong, I am convinced that God has already given me way too much for my own good. I am blessed with a wonderful husband, beautiful, healthy children and amazing friends. I have been given many opportunities that I just don't deserve.

But in this place, I am longing for a fresh refill. Longing for Him to fill my cup.

I am in the process of seeking some real changes in my life. I am seeking God's face in many decisions that need to be made.

I would love to share some of those decisions with you, but now is not the right time. I have always said that this would be an outlet that no matter what I may look like, I would give an honest glimpse into my life. I just don't feel the liberty to share at this moment. I am sure that I will soon!

Blessings,

Kim

Still kicking......

2009-07-21T17:01:00.002-04:00

I am sure by now, I have lost every reader that I gained during my giveaway!

But for those who are still loyal.......Thank you! (I'm kidding....you are ALL loyal )

I have been going through alot at the moment, and feel like I haven't even had time to breathe! I am almost finished with this semester!!!! YEAH!!!!!!

I have never been more excited to have a semester end!

I have another post to follow, but wanted to say a sincere "thank you" to all of you who have been faithful to my blog. I appreciate it more than you know! Having my voice heard in this way is something that I never thought that I would ever do, but I am continually blessed by you and your sweet comments!

I hope that you are having an amazing week!

Blessings,

Kim

One down.....

2009-07-06T18:23:00.002-04:00

A few weeks ago, I asked for prayer. I was about to take my Nursing Entrance Test and felt a little nervous about it. I felt good after taking it, but knew that the possibility was there of me completely bombing it!

I received my letter in the mail at the end of last week and.......................................................................

I PASSED!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I feel so relieved now that this part of the process is over! I am still planning on applying to the program in September, and will keep you updated on all of the activities as they unfold.

Thank you for all of the prayers. They were felt and needed. I am thankful that I have a great support system of people who love and pray for me!

I hope that you had an awesome 4th of July.....thank a soldier for your freedom!

Blessings,

Kim

And the winner is........

2009-06-30T16:46:00.007-04:00

And the winner is: #2 Sabrina!!

Okay, so I have my kids as my witness and I am glad that I decided to do a random drawing! lol!

There is no way that I could choose myself!

I will be doing another giveaway soon, so keep checking back!

Congrats! I hope that you enjoy this giftcard! (Heaven knows that I wouldn't! lol!)

For some reason, when I post the random number thingy, it won't keep the number that it chose. I pinky promise that it was #2!! Ask my kids, they won't lie to you!! lol!!

Blessings,

Kim

None for me, thanks.....

2009-06-25T19:19:00.002-04:00

I have something that I need to come clean about.

I know that it may turn some of you away from reading my blog, but I feel that I must be honest.

I don't drink coffee.

There, I said it.

I feel much better now!! lol!

Truth be told, I have never liked the taste. I always think that I may be able to muster up something in me to make myself like it, but I just can't. It tastes like, umm........I don't even know what to describe it as.

Like coffee.

I don't even like cold coffee drinks or desserts with a coffee taste! I know, it seems UNAMERICAN, doesn't it?

That being said, remember what I said here?

So, I have come to the conclusion that I am the only person (well, me and my hubby) that doesn't drink coffee. I figured that the perfect giveaway would be..................

A $10.00 gift card to STARBUCKS!!!!

Here are the rules:

1) You must link my blog in your blog and/or tweet,

2) become a follower

3) leave a comment telling me that you have linked me and what has been your favorite post so far! (and maybe what the appeal is with coffee! lol!)

I will do a random drawing on Tuesday, June 30. Best of luck to all!!

I hope that you are having a great week!

Blessings,

Kim

Oh, the sidekick....

2009-06-23T18:54:00.002-04:00

While cooking dinner tonight, I told Beatrice that Ed McMahon had passed away today. She had never heard of him before, and asked what did he did. I told her that he was Johnny Carson's sidekick on the "Tonight Show".

Gertie came in and said, "So he knew that stuff was gonna happen before it did?" I just stood there for a minute, trying to understand what the two could possibly have to do with each other. Then it dawned on me.

Psychic.

She thought that he was Johnny Carson's psychic.

What an imagination, that one.

Funny. Good times, good times.

Blessings,

Kim

I..........

2009-06-17T23:21:00.000-04:00

I am an absolute blog stalker....I found this on her blog. I thought that it was cute and that I would try to do it myself. It was alot harder than I thought! Here are my answers........

I am…often reminded of my imperfections

I want…to be finished with school

I have…an amazing husband

I wish…that my father in law was still alive

I know…that Jesus loves me

I hate…music of Duran Duran and Depeche Mode

I fear…robots

I crave…alone time with my husband

I search…the internet WAY too much

I always…can eat a Krispy Kreme Doughnut

I usually…find humor in things

I am not…good at confrontation

I miss…my Great Grandma

I love…being in love

I never…eat pork roast

I rarely…take time to smell the roses along the way

I cry…very easily

I lose…my cool, way more than I should

I should…be more organized

I worry…about my kids and their safety

I dream…about having my own restaurant

I was…a horrible student in high school and for that matter....school in general

I need…my friends

I can…wiggle my ears (Beatrice told me to put that)

Feel free to erase my answers and post them to your own blog. It is fun!

Blessings,

Kim

An interview.........

2009-06-17T18:17:00.003-04:00

I decided to interview my youngest child, Mr. Man. I wanted to see what things were like from his 3 year old perspective. Here it is:

1. What is Mommie's name? Mommie Cogdill

2. What is Daddy's name? Kevin

3. Are you a good boy? yes, all the time

4. Who loves you? maybe Grandma

5. Where do we live? at the workshop (??????)

6. What is your favorite food? cherry coke

7. Who is your best friend? Rudolph (yes, the red nose reindeer)

8. How much do I love you? a big hulk (he likes super-heroes)

9. What is your favorite movie? museum come to life every night (Night at the Museum)

10. What do you want to be when you get bigger? a macho man (we saw the village people at universal, he never forgot it! lol!)

11. What is your favorite place to go? where the fireworks are

12. How big are you? This big (holds out hands)

13. What is your favorite song? It says da da da da....giselle, giselle. (not sure where that came from)

Just thought that I would pick his brain and see what gems he would come up with!! He is a hoot, and didn't disappoint! lol!

Blessings,

Kim

Oh yeah, you know it's true.......

2009-06-08T18:03:00.002-04:00

This is a repost. Funny......I still feel the same way. Enjoy.

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 8, 2008

Of this I am sure.......

*Please take this post with a wink and a smile.

Do you ever wonder what your mansion in Heaven will be like?

I like to think that I will have enough room for me and all my angel friends, plenty of room for entertaining and the ability to snap my fingers and have a clean mansion. I know that all of the disciples will want to come and "hang" at my crib.

But the one thing that I pray I will have in my mansion is a

Krispy
Kreme.

Oh yeah, you know it!

I have said this forever and I know that God truly knows my heart and really will consider this for me.

Maybe.

But on the flip side.

Even though I can't stand the thought of what hell may be like. I would like to think that I know of two things that will most certainly be there.

As part of the ongoing torture and punishment, I am most certain that everyone will be issued two things when they arrive.

Math books and pantyhose.

That's right, I believe that people in hell will be doing Math and putting on pantyhose over and over and over and over and over and over again.

That would be enough torture for me.

I am convinced of this even more now as I am taking a math class as a pre-requisite for nursing.

I.
Hate.
Math.

As I am writing this, I am supposed to be studying for a test that I have today.

I feel rebellious.

So as I am trying to pass the word along, please pass it too.

hell is forever and hot.
It has math and pantyhose.

Of this I am sure.

Have a great day!
Blessings,
Kim

* Please understand that I DO NOT take Hell lightly. I fully understand that Hell is real, and that there is no light-hearted moments there. My sincere wish is that everyone that you know and love knows and has a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. This is meant to express my sincere hatred of both math and pantyhose, not to diminish the reality of Hell.*

Just an FYI..........

2009-06-08T17:07:00.003-04:00

I am supposed to be doing my math test online, but I decided that I needed a little break.....

you know, all work and no play makes Kim a grumpy girl!

I looked at one of my fave blogs, (notice that it is on my blog roll at the bottom.....she is one of my faves and I put her on here a year ago!) and what did I see???????????????

A GIVEAWAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Oh yeah, a good one, girls!

It is a Coach Purse!!!!

Be still my heart!

I thought about being stingy and not telling you, but I figured that if you love me and you win it that ~~you could give it to me~~ we could share it! lol! (who's kidding?)

Here is the link to her blog:

a tad bit prudish

Best of luck to me all of you!

Blessings,

Kim

This makes me feel very happy........

2009-05-27T23:47:00.003-04:00

When this sign is on........I HAVE to stop!!

Bliss, on my counter.........

OH YEAH!!!!!

{disclaimer: I cannot be held responsible for the feelings that you may have while looking at this picture....if you instantly feel the need to get a HOT doughnut, GO. Go quickly and get one! On a side note, I am sorry if you feel a little ill by seeing me with no makeup on. I was ready for bed, people!! lol!}

Blessings,

Kim

Our Disney trip........

2009-05-26T10:05:00.003-04:00

Both of our girls share the same birthday. We decided that since Disney was doing the "get in free for your birthday" thing, that we would take advantage of it.....ot was 2 for 1 for us! We stayed for 5 days and went to Disney, Hollywood Studios and Universal and Islands of Adventure. We have annual passes to Universal, so we decided to make the most of the trip. The icing on the cake was going to see the Blue Man Group! This was the second time that Kevin and I saw the show, and we really enjoyed it! I had such a great time with my family, and look forward to the next getaway!

Make a Smilebox slideshow

Blessings,
Kim

{lucky} 13.........

2009-05-24T14:20:00.004-04:00

Growing up, I believed in the old wives tale about the number 13. I believed that it was bad luck. I believed that you didn't want to have a birthday on that day, or that you never wanted to have that number associated with anything. I can remember that my fears were confirmed when I realized that there wasn't a 13th floor in hotels!

But as they say, you grow up and realize that some of the things you were afraid of as a child, just seem silly when you are older. That is very apparent to me now.

You see, May 25, 1996 was the day that I chose to marry the man of my dreams. I am ashamed to say it now, but only recently did I realize just how perfect he is for me. We have been together for so long that I cannot hardly remember my life before him! I was 16 and he was 22. I know, I know......don't worry, he still gets teased about it from me! I tell him all the time that he was lurking at the playground trying to find a suitable date!! lol!!

Funny though, we don't think about our age now, we just see each other for

who and what we are. When I look into his eyes, I see what love truly means. I am thankful that he loves me and accepts me just the way I am. He makes me want to be a better person, wife and mother. I am more in love with him today, than ever before. With him, I have created 3 beautiful children and made tons of memories.

I look forward to many more happy anniversaries together! I cannot wait to spend the rest of my life with the man of my dreams! I am so thankful that when God made Kevin, he made him for me! He knew that he was perfect for me even when I didn't.

So, tomorrow will be magic #13........I am so excited to share this day with him and our kids. Never have I been so happy to see #13!!

Blessings,

Kim

Then.......................... And now............................

I really do feel blessed.......

2009-05-20T14:19:00.004-04:00

God has placed me in some interesting situations. I can remember when we came to the church that we have attended for the last 8 1/2 years. We came in, not knowing what would happen in our future. The youth pastor that we had at the time made youth ministry look so easy and SO fun!! I remember asking him if I could HELP.

HELP.

Not teach.

So, I went into the class that I was asked to, and I quickly found out that it was not the class for me! It was a 6th grade middle school class. Need I say more?

Our yout pastor realized that there was an opening in the 9th and 10th grade class with another teacher, and I took my position in that class. Wow! What a difference a few years makes!

I really took to the girls in that class. They were eager and willing to learn, which makes it easier to teach. I wasn't in the class but for a month or so, and the other teacher felt that God was calling her out into another class to teach.

Panic. That is what I felt at that moment. I knew that I couldn't do it alone! I remember that someone told me that God doesn't call the equipped, He equips the called. That made complete sense to me. I decided to do what was right by the girls that were in there and try my best to teach the lessons that I had been given.

Long story short..........these girls are still a part of my lives today. That was 8 years ago. I have seen them grow into beautiful young women. I have seen them graduate high school and college. I have seen them get married and one is even pregnant now!

I am so proud of the women that they have become!

It was my privilege to go to another of their weddings.

Here are some of the pics of the evening:

I feel extremely blessed that God has placed me where I am. I could never have imagined that I would be able to be a part of something that is bigger than me. I have had opportunities to witness to these girls and to see one of them come to know Christ. I am thankful that they still consider me a part of their lives!

I just wanted to share a few of these special moments with my bloggy friends. Special friendships are hard to come by, but when they are ordained by God, it makes them all the more special!

Blessings,

Kim

Might be a little odd, but........

2009-05-20T14:11:00.002-04:00

You know, I have often been accused of going against the grain.

Well, this is gonna be no exception.

I know that I said I was gonna do a give away for my 100th post, BUT.........

I haven't blogged in so long that I just felt that I needed to make sure I had any followers still!

I need to know, are there any of you still left? I don't blame you if you are long gone, I mean, it seemed as though I had fallen off the face of the earth! lol!

So, I will be doing my give away in a few weeks, after I see if I have anyone left reading! I already have a gift in mind that I am sure will please!

My promise to you is that I am back. I will not be on a blog hiatus for this long again. I sure miss you when I am away!

Blessings,

Kim

21 days.........

2009-05-06T21:20:00.002-04:00

I can't believe my eyes.

It has been 21 days since I have last blogged! I have so many things that I would like to say, so many things that have been happening with me and my family.

We have had 2 birthdays, went on a wonderful vacation and had many eventful things going on.

I can't wait to share with all of you, I pray that you haven't totally written me off!

Please bare with me, as I gather all of my thoughts....I am excited that I am so close to my 100th post!!

I haven't forgotten about the giveaway either....it is going to be a good one!

I pray that this time away from you has brought you and your family many blessings and happy times.

Blessings,

Kim

Easter 2009

2009-04-15T16:07:00.002-04:00

I hope that all of you had a wonderful Easter! I wanted to share some pics that we took that day of the family! I am incredibly blessed to have 3 wonderful, healthy children!

The most important aspect of that day is that Jesus is risen!! I pray that you know Him as your Lord and Savior. What an incredible gift we have been given!

Blessings,
Kim

Make a Smilebox slideshow

Reason #8,369 why I should get this award.....

2009-04-07T19:48:00.004-04:00

I rarely come to my blog and ask for a favor.

But I am today.

Please consider me for this award.

I will give you a few of the reasons why.

#87-I often forget to ummmmm........do _______ (you can fill in the blank as you see fit) for my kids.

Okay, after much consideration, I would just like to give you one big reason for my self-deserving attitude for THE award this week.

You see, Gertie lost her tooth. Truth be told it is her 7th tooth. (I know only because she keeps count). Actually this is the 2nd that she has lost within a week. She is very excited for the tooth fairy to come and visit her.

That tooth fairy was on the ball when she lost the first one last week. She even was generous enough to give her $2.00. Thank you, very much!!

Anywho, I digress.......she lost another tooth 2 days later, and she has put it under her pillow for the last 3 nights and the tooth fairy forgot!! I can't believe ~~myself~~ that fairy!! She has some nerve making my baby wait for 3 nights!

So tonight after dinner, (which consisted of cereal for the younger two and left over spaghetti for Beatrice....don't hate, it was their choice for the meal-although I didn't complain!) Gertie came and said, "Please call the tooth fairy-she has forgotten again!" Where I promptly said that the tooth fairy relayed her sincerest apologies to me and that she didn't know because I didn't call her.

Smooth. I know.

So, if you happen to talk to the tooth fairy tonight, could you please let her know that my precious offspring has lost another tooth and if she doesn't pony up the money that she will most likely lose faith in her?

Thanks so much.

So it is with humble heart that I ask you to please consider me for your 2009 "Crappy Mom of the Year Award". I promise not to let you down!

Blessings,

Kim

Don't read this if............ (written right after the last show)

2009-03-28T18:06:00.000-04:00

You watch "The Bachelor"...........because-

you will NOT like what I have to say..........

Consider yourself forewarned if you proceed!!!!!!

Okay, I am realizing that I am in a category by myself.

I have a secret. A shame to some.

I don't watch the Bachelor.

There, I said it. I am not ashamed of this fact. I actually think that those who watch it should be ashamed.

Here's my point.

I am not naive to think that men and women could possibly have trouble finding their "Mister Right". I understand that it must be hard to date in this day and time. As a matter of fact, I am thankful that I am not in this position.

I just think that while I am not naive to what happens when you date, I also don't want the whole world to see my progress on t.v. It seems to me that if you are the one that is "lucky" (and I use this term very loosely) you would be faced with watching every other girl kiss and paw all over your new found man.

What does that say about our society that we are willing to have a contest to get the man of your dreams? I mean seriously, I have seen the previews and it seems nothing short of a free for all. I just don't get the attraction to fighting for the right to date or potentially marry this man who you have watched being "man-handled" by other vixens.

What happened to praying for God to bring the right man in your life? Seems to me that if I were in this position, knowing what I know now, I would be praying for God to place that man for me. I don't want to assume that I know what or who is good for me. I know that I have tried to do things in my own power before and it ALWAYS flops!

This is not a new stance for me. Truth be told, I have never watched the show, and do not ever intend to. I used to tell the girls in my Sunday School class how awful that I thought the show was and my opinion has not changed! Please hear my heart on this......this is my opinion. I do not expect for you to defend your decision to watch the show. It is a conviction of mine, and I assure you that we probably do not share the same convictions. To each his own. This just happens to be my blog, and I can say what I want!! hahahahaha!!

I personally feel that there must be something lacking in these women's lives for them to be willing to air their dating woes for all to see. I would personally be embarrassed if one of my daughters or my son took part in such antics. I pray that my children would think a little higher of themselves and their family, and not stoop to this level.

I guess that I have vented enough about this topic........I will not apologize for my stance. It is my opinion and I just wanted to share!! LOL!!

I hope that tomorrow finds you in the House of the Lord!

Blessings,

Kim

Time for the fair.......

2009-03-20T15:56:00.005-04:00

I can remember growing up and looking forward to one thing during spring break.........

THE FAIR!!!

It is a tradition in my county (well, my home county) that the fair is always around spring break. Some of the fondest memories that I have are of the fair and all that it brings. I used to love being with my friends and ride all of the rides and eat greasy fair food!

Now the fair means something completely different to me. With kids, it is so neat to see everything through their eyes. It is really great that they can experience the fair with friends and family just like I did.

They had such a great time! We got all of them arm bands which allow them to ride all they want for one price. That is truly the way to go!!

We let Mr. Man ride some rides and he had a blast. Of course there was the time when he told the man behind the controls that he was "done". Thankfully, the man let him off and there wasn't a scene!! He has mixed emotions about some of the rides. On some of them, he just smiles and laughs the whole time. On others, he has a look of terror and then smiles after and says "that was awesome" ! You never know what that boy will say!

The girls enjoyed riding and being able to take care of their brother. For Beatrice, it was really neat cause she got to ride some rides that she wouldn't ride last year. Gertie also took a leap of faith on some rides.......she is getting braver!!

I took some pics of the night.............................

I am glad that they had such a good time! The one with Mr. Man in the green boat is the funniest.......he was terrified on that boat! He told the man not to touch the controls, that he was done!!

I am thankful for such sweet times with my family. I look forward to these times, as I know they will not last forever.

I hope that you have had a pleasant week!

Blessings,

Kim

95.......

2009-03-19T09:48:00.003-04:00

Just a little side note.....this is my 95th post! I can't believe that it has been a year since I started blogging! I have enjoyed this little endeavour and really have enjoyed "meeting" some other blogging buddies. It is amazing to me how different we feel we are, but we share many of the same emotions, struggles, joys and victories. I am thankful that I have gotten to "know" so many of you who frequent my blog, and I yours. I am thankful for the prayers that you have offered up on my behalf when asked and hope that you know the favor has been returned.

I am thinking that I will celebrate my 100th post with a give-away!! Free stuff is always great! I will let you know what I decide, but until then, let your friends know that there will be stuff given away!!!

Thank you for all of your faithfulness to read my blog. I know that I sometimes become such a huge slacker, but ya'll are so forgiving! Thank you for bearing with me during the times when I think something, but cannot put it to words in an eloquent way. I have never claimed to be an awesome writer, (and it shows!) but I am thankful that I am able to put my thoughts to print.

I am thankful that you are on this journey of life with me.......thank you for all of your comments-both private and open. I will keep you updated on the give-away!

Blessings,
Kim

I have not fallen off the face of the earth.....

2009-03-16T09:17:00.001-04:00

I promise I am still alive! I have some things that I want to post.......I will try and do it today. My sincere apologies for being such a slacker, but things have been REALLY crazy in my life over the last 2 weeks. Please forgive me....... I will be better!

Blessings,
Kim

On this day........

2009-02-28T22:45:00.003-05:00

You know, birthdays come and birthdays go-but some are just more special than others. Today is one of those days.

55 years ago, my Uncle Allen was born into this world. Now trust me, I wouldn't have been able to post this 25 years ago. You see, at that time he was in the midst of what he would call "making me a better person". Translation-torturing me in any way possible!

I am thankful that I have now passed that torch onto my kids. They are able to endure the frustration that I had to. He-he....it is all in the master plan!! Mr. Man knows that when Uncle Allen comes around it is "torture time!"

But somehow, the frustration that I endured when I was younger did make me a better person. The things that he did to torture me made me realize that life is short and you should enjoy it. After all, if you can't laugh at yourself, what fun can you possibly have?

All these years later, and many trials later, he is absolutely my favorite uncle in the world. I am thankful that God prompted me to allow him (Uncle Allen) into my life again (another story). Through all of the ups and downs that we have endured together, one thing has never changed-our love for each other and the bond that we have. He is an amazing man with an amazing story of how God can truly change anyone if they are willing and open. It is a story of forgiveness and obedience, love and what it means to be there for someone....through thick and thin! He is an unbelievable carpenter and has the gift of service.

I love and respect this man with every fiber of my being. He makes me want to be a better person! Everyone who comes into contact with him knows of his love for Christ and how he is just a no non-sense kind of guy. I would love to say that he will read this, but says that the computer is "the devil box". Gotta love him!!

One thing that makes me love him to pieces is the way that he loves my kids. He is a God-send. He loves them each differently, and takes time to get to know each of them for who they are. He shows them unconditional love and does torture them a little...which I like to see!! lol!!

Here's to many more birthdays, Uncle Allen...I love you with all of my heart and soul!

I wanted to show a pic of him, but only found some of him and Mr. Man....they are funny!

This is them making their "mean faces"

This is the first time that Mr. Man went fishing.

I pray that tomorrow finds you in the House of the Lord!

Blessings,

Kim

I understand.......

2009-02-23T18:11:00.002-05:00

I remember hearing about some animal that eats their young. Not sure of their reasoning, but I think that I understand why it is an option.

My kids have been having some arguments.

Serious.
Arguments.

I think that I may throw them in a room together and tell them to not come out until they have either worked it out or Jesus comes back. I am not sure which at this point.

As you can imagine, I have been praying daily for Jesus to come quickly.

Very.
Quickly.

As a matter of fact, today would be good, I haven't made dinner yet, and I know that I could have some serious grub in Heaven!!

I ~~know~~ hope that this is just a phase. I am looking forward to the day when we can sit together and sing Kum Ba Yah.

A woman can dream, can't she?

How do you deal with kids who just want to fight for an after school activity?

Hope that you are having a pleasant week....and that your kids aren't getting ready to kill each other.

Blessings,
Kim

Our little trip.......

2009-02-19T08:53:00.004-05:00

We really needed a get-away. Badly. We didn't get to take a vacation last year, so we decided to take a mini vacay! We have annual passes to Universal and hadn't taken advantage of them since 2007.

We wanted to surprise the kids and didn't tell them anything. I packed while they were sleeping and when we woke them up the next morning, we just told them to get into the truck.

You should have heard the guesses that were coming from their mouths, hilarious! Gertie swore that we must be driving to Hawaii! Beatrice thought that we might be going to Disney or to the Alligator Farm.

When we got a little closer to Orlando, they both knew what was going on. Mr. Man was very excited to see Spiderman.

Here are some pics of the mini-vacay:

We had a great time! We got to see the Mardi-Gras parade and even got some beads......

We really had a great time.....it was nice to be together...just the 5 of us!

I hope that you are having a blessed week!

Blessings,

Kim

A birthday weekend......

2009-02-10T15:46:00.007-05:00

Well, our birthday weekend has come and gone. Kevin has officially made it over the hill and I am not quite there yet, but will be soon enough!!

We had a great time celebrating our birthdays and enjoyed some special time with special people.

It started on Friday night when we met Kevin at Red Lobster for dinner. We each ate some delicious food and enjoyed the waiters singing "Happy Birthday" to Kevin.

On Saturday, I was awakened to my kids making me breakfast. They made me waffles with peanut butter and syrup-one of my favorites!! But...........

Beatrice didn't realize that you had to turn the heat up on the toaster so that the waffles would actually defrost, so they were cold in the center!! lol!!

We spent the day just lounging around and then went to eat at a Japanese Steak House. It was alot of fun and some friends met us there for supper. We got finished and knew that we needed some dessert!

We all headed to Cold Stone for some delicious ice cream!! I had a great time.

Then on Sunday night after church I arranged for some of Kevin's family and some of our close friends to meet us at a local restaurant. He was surprised and loved that we got together! I would say that his birthday was a huge success. He enjoyed all of the festivities and I did also!! Here are a couple of pics to show the fun..............

I am thankful that I have people in my life that spent mine and Kevin's birthday with us. I am very blessed!

Blessings to you,
Kim

Happy birthday to my hubby......

2009-02-06T10:00:00.002-05:00

I have been with Kevin for more than half my life. I have celebrated 17 birthdays with him.

But this one, it is different.

He is 40.

Let me say that again.

40!!!!!!!!

I can't believe that my old man is now literally my old man!

He is such a good sport about me teasing him!! Truth be told, I know that I need to be nice because I am behind him in a little while!!

I hope that you have a wonderful day Kevin!! I pray that this year brings you everything that your heart desires!

I love you!

Blessings,

Kim

25 random things......

2009-02-03T15:49:00.002-05:00

I have seen these things going around facebook for a week or so now (really heavily), and thought that I could post it here-so here goes!

1. I don't like feet. I don't want to touch yours or have you touch mine. It took a long time for me to be able to even get a pedicure! If Kevin puts his foot on mine accidentally, it completely freaks me out!!

2. I really enjoy planning parties.

3. I think that my nose is very round at the end-kinda freakish, really.

4. I get really happy when I cook.

5. I love to give gifts.

6. Watching movies is one of my all time favorite things to do.

7. If I am channel surfing and Speed, Sleeping with the Enemy, Legally Blonde or Men in Black is on, I will watch it.

8. I love to eat Kim-chee.

9. Kirkland's makes me very happy.

10. I like to have quality and not quantity.

11. When I got married I really wanted to have fireworks go off over the river when Kevin and I kissed. My Dad said no. I was mad. I am over it now. Kinda.

12. I would love to sing on a Broadway before I die. Far-fetched, I know, but it is my dream.

13. Even though it can be a pain, I am fine with my height. I am 5 '2.

14. I don't like salmon.

15. I don't drink coffee. I think that it is disgusting.

16. My first car was a white Mustang.

17. The Blue Man group people freak me out. They are awesome to watch and I had a great time, but when they came into the audience, I thought that I was gonna break Kevin's arm.

18. I could very easily live in a big city. I love New York, Atlanta and L.A.

19. I am certified to read and do EKG's.

20. I don't like to be hot. It makes me ornery.

21. I love to ride roller coasters. All of them.

22. I have 112 blogs that I read.

23. I love to eat spicy things, the hotter the better. I love Mexican food.

24. I would love to learn how to quilt.

25. I am striving to be the wife, mother and woman that God has called me to be.

I thought that this was neat to find out about people. I hope that you learned something that you might not have known!

Blessings,
Kim

The armor......

2009-01-27T21:57:00.004-05:00

Today, I am struggling.

I am struggling with lies. Lies that I am buying into.

Oh yeah, and I am paying big bucks for them.

You see, we are told that Satan is a deceiver and that we should put the whole armor of God on everyday.

"Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm. Stand therefore, having fastened on the belt of truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and, as shoes for your feet, having put on the readiness given by the gospel of peace. In all circumstances take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one; and take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God, praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication. To that end keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints"
—Ephesians 6:11-18

So why have I chosen to listen to his lies today?

He is so sneaky, he knows all of my weaknesses.....the secret issues that I have.

He knows that I struggle with self worth.......bad. He knows that I feel totally inadequate in so many areas of my life.

I know that God loves me just the way I am. Yet I forget it so easily. I forget to put on my armor. I forget that there is evil in this world that is waiting to drag me down! It is so very real, yet I forget just how real until I am in the place I am now.

Don't worry, I know that my Lord has made me a promise!! He has promised me that He will never leave me or forsake me.

My prayer for today is that I can be reminded of God's love and how unconditional it is. It truly is a gift that I have been given....and don't deserve.....yet He loves me so much that He gives it in spite of me!!

What lies do you buy into? How does it affect your walk with Christ?

I hope that you are remembering to put your armor on today!

Blessings,
Kim

What's new.......

2009-01-21T15:30:00.007-05:00

Since I have once again been a blog slacker, I thought that I would update everyone on our lives.
I know, you can hardly contain yourself.

Remember how I blogged about my sweet, cute, wonderful puppy? Here.

Yeah, well, she ain't so cute and sweet anymore.

She is Satan's puppy.

I am ser.i.ous.

She has tore up everything in the city we live in. I believe that she could be responsible for global warming somehow.

I'm just sayin'.

Anywho, those of you who know me KNOW that I do have a love for dogs, so when we got ~~Lucifer~~ I mean, Lucy, I was sure that things would be wonderful.

How wrong I was!!

Ladies and gentlemen of the jury, I would like to enter Exhibit A:

Oh yeah, that was a hammock. My husband got this as a Father's Day present 2 years ago.

I'd like to see him sit on it now!!

You see the knee board in the back? Well, we live on the lake and that was under the porch. She drug that out too!

What a special dog. Look at her, you just KNOW that she is up to no good.
Guilty, that one.

So, we have already given her away. We are waiting on the person to take possession of her. If we don't she might possess us. She is like that, you know.

I have more to fill you in on, but I will save it for later.

I hope that you have had a wonderful week.

Blessings,

Kim

To be present.......

2009-01-12T16:57:00.002-05:00

You know, we all do it. We make New Year's resolutions, only to have failed by the 2nd week in January!

Why? Why would we subject ourselves to such hurt when we know that we have such potential to fail?

After assessing some areas in my life, I realized that I was not going to fall for the same ole' trap again.......I was gonna make some resolutions, but they would be private. That way if I fail, you would never know!!

I am smart like that!!

But for some reason, here I am fixin' to pour my heart out to ya'll........again!

There is one area that I would like to be vocal about.

I want to say this so that if you know me you can correct me when I mess up.

My goal for 2009..........................................

drumroll please............................................

Is to be "present".

It may sound super simple, but it's not.

Let me explain exactly what I mean. You know when you are having a conversation with someone and you are making eye contact and hear the words coming out of their mouth?

But-

You are not really hearing them?

I want to try really hard to hear everyone. Please know that I haven't been ignoring any of you (the people who know me IRL), but there are times when my plate is so full that I am thinking of a thousand other things when I owe you my undivided attention. For this, I am truly sorry. You deserve better than that, and I have often fallen short when it comes to being present for you.

I realize that I do this more often than I care to really admit. I do it with my kids, my husband, my friends........heck, I even do it with the TV!!

To the actors and production crew of Prison Break, ER, House and CSI,

I am truly sorry for not devoting the whole hour to you when you are a top notch show and your writers work really hard to entertain me!! I will promise to be totally enveloped in your show when it is on......I may be as big as a house for sitting on the couch watching all of these shows, but at least I am going to be faithful and watch your show how you intended. Sorry for all of the episodes that I have DVR'd and erased. I will be better, I promise.

Sincerely,
A woman who wants to be "present"

Okay, now that little job is finished, but in all seriousness, I long to have total focus on a situation. I want to know and truly be part of all areas of my life. That is my goal for 2009.

I want to remember all of the good times that I share with everyone. Life is short. Stuff can wait. Embrace the here and now........it doesn't stay this way forever.

Thank you for following my blog and if you know me and I seem distracted.......remind me to keep my focus!

Blessings,
Kim

About that game.....

2009-01-09T00:59:00.003-05:00

Just in case you fell off the face of the earth since last night..........

GATORS WON!!!!!! 2009 National Champs!!!!!!!!

I am so proud of the Gators! I am most proud of Tim Tebow and the excellent testimony that he carries! It is so nice to hear an athlete give all of the honor and glory to God.....and truly mean it!! What an awesome man of God!!

Way to go Florida!! You did it again!!

Blessings,
Kim

Gotta love this boy.....

2009-01-08T21:17:00.004-05:00

As I type this, I am watching the only thing on t.v. right now.

The Florida-Oklahoma game!!!!!!

You see, we here in this neck of the woods love us some football. Especially that of the Gator kind!!

To commemorate this special day, we had to dress Mr. Man appropriately. He got some great Gator gear for Christmas, and we had to make sure that he was decked out in it today.

Of course, we had to take some pics of this precious boy!!

He totally has my heart!!

That's the Heisman pose people, you can't make this stuff up!!
He is gonna break some hearts!!

As I finish this, the score is tied. I am gonna go so I can devote my full attention to this all important game!! Hope that you have had a great day and an even better one tomorrow!!

Blessings,

Kim

Where is the love.......

2009-01-05T21:52:00.002-05:00

I have been a serious blog slacker! I have been so busy with all of the Holiday festivities that I have neglected my blog. I truly love blogging, and have given my reasons for why I do it.

I enjoy blogging for all of those reasons, plus many more that I have discovered along the way. I miss blogging when I am unable to do it.

But...............I am trying to find out where exactly this is leading me. I know that I have a few people that read faithfully, but I am unsure about the others...if there are any others!!

So, I would like to issue a challenge, if you will.

I would like to know who is reading!! I want to know about you, who you are and what makes you tick. What brought you to my blog and what keeps you coming back.

You can comment or you can e-mail me at
www.theviewfrommyneckofthewoods@yahoo.com

I just want to get some bloggin' love!! I hope that you enjoy my blog and keep coming back....I promise to give you the best of me!

Blessings for you and your family for a happy and healthy 2009,
Kim

Oh yeah, I'm still here......

2009-01-02T10:35:00.002-05:00

For the three people who may read my blog, I am still alive and kickin'! Things have been very hectic around here, and I will update soon, I promise!

I hope that all of you had a very Merry Christmas and a wonderful New Year!! We had a great time with both holidays, spending time with friends and family. We feel truly blessed for everything that God has allowed us to have.

I am on my way to a much needed hair appointment. My hair is past the middle of my back now!! It hasn't been this long in forever!! I am trying to grow out my hair to donate it and am excited that I can offer it to someone who needs it.

I hope that you have a great day today!

Blessings,
Kim

Christmas cards 2008....

2008-12-22T15:02:00.002-05:00

I have had the joy of knowing my BFF for 25 years now! We have been through alot together..ALOT!

When she decided to take on the task of photography, I couldn't have been more excited! She has a natural eye for the art, and loves to tell the story of whatever she is photographing. I am so proud of her and her work!

We always have pics taken for Christmas. We started doing that when Beatrice was a baby and have continued it. It is something that I love to look at every year and see how much we have changed.

It was a no-brainer that Jennifer would take our pics again this year. She just keeps getting better and better!

Check out her blog. If you are in the Northeast Florida area, I would encourage you to call her up when you have a need for quality photographs. I assure you, you will not be disappointed!!

We had a great time with our session, and she has posted some of her faves on her blog.

Thanks Jennifer for your friendship! I love you more than words can say!

Blessings,
Kim

Had to be a man.....

2008-12-17T13:46:00.003-05:00

Remember how I said that I believe God has a sense of humor? Well, this is more and more real to me everyday. I think that God looked down on me right before my 30th birthday and said, "let her have dry skin"-and there it was.

May sound strange, but I tell ya, I never had to worry with such things before I turned 30. So, in my quest to find the perfect lotion for my leather like skin (that could seriously be mistaken for an alligator skin catsuit), I have finally found something that works well. Happy am I!!

Until.

Another thing that must have occurred was the apparent movement of my dry skin to my scalp. Okay, you know how everyone has pet-peeves? Well, I have a certain disdain for people that are digging at their scalp so hard that you think that they might actually touch their brains. Something about it just grates on my nerves!!

Well, now I can add myself to that list! I am tellin' you, I have itched my head so hard it hurt!

This leads me to the title of my post.
What was that?

Did you say.........finally?

Ahem. I will continue.

So because of my extreme itching rampage, I asked Kevin to fetch me some shampoo that might cure what is ailing my scalp. I really wanted to get some T-tree shampoo but he couldn't find any. So after calling me to get the right kind for my issue, he came home with some T g el shampoo. As soon as he walked in the door, I grabbed the shampoo and went to the shower. I felt a certain happiness that I would have relief from this head-itching madness.

Until.

I smelled the most foul smell coming from my head.

What in the world could that be?

It was the shampoo. Did I really just pay for this smell?

Okay, did it not dawn on the person making this shampoo that it smells horrible?

I am thinking that a bit of gardenia scent or even eucalyptus oil would have made it smell better.

So now my head feels great...

but smells like a cross between a flea dip and tar.

Talk about sexy.

Nothing says "I'm beautiful and smell good" like some tar and flea dip.

Had to have been invented by a man.

I'm just sayin' that's all.

Blessings,

Kim

You just gotta see this......

2008-12-15T10:57:00.002-05:00

As I was going through some of my blogroll this morning, I came across this project. It is amazing! It is a husband who is putting together a series of letters from mothers to his wife. He is going to present these letters to her as a Christmas gift. What an amazing idea! Please check this out......and feel free to participate. I will be writing my letter today!

I hope that you are having a blessed day!
Blessings,
Kim

Here I am.........

2008-12-14T14:13:00.001-05:00

Yes, I am still alive.

I will post tomorrow.

I hope that today finds you in the House of the Lord.

Blessings,
Kim

I found the bug..or it found me......

2008-12-08T13:08:00.002-05:00

So, after my last post, I was feeling pretty confident that I wouldn't get the stomach bug that my darling children had passed amongst themselves. I guess, truth be told that I was a little too confident. Arrogant, if you will.

"It's just gonna skip me this time....no need to worry, I escaped with just a tummy ache!"

Famous last words, I tell ya.

Words of a fool.

On Saturday, I had to take my state final for math. I knew that the possibility of me getting sick was a great one, so I prayed real hard for God to spare me this one. I really didn't want to be known as the girl with the trash can at the final.

He did.

Remember how I talked a while back about praying specifically?

Yeah, God does have a sense of humor, for any of you who had any doubt.

I got home from my final and decided to take a shower and get ready for the game.

What game? Was there anything else on TV at 4:00? I mean the Gator /Alabama game.

Anyway, we won, end of story.

So, after the game was over, I knew that I still didn't feel well and thought that it would be a good idea to go to bed.

A few minutes later, Kevin started throwing up....(I know that this is not pleasant, but I am just stating the facts, people) still, in my cockiness, I thought that I wouldn't get it!

I laid down and about an hour later, was awakened from a dead sleep to my stomach churning. Great, there is no escape after all!

Oh yeah, there it was!

So, now Kevin and I both are having stomach issues! Gertie was at her Grandmother's house so she was none the wiser, but Beatrice was stuck with Mr. Man duty all of the next morning.

She was amazing with him, really doing the "big sister" thing!

We were more than thankful that she was able to help out, cause we were a bit indisposed!

So, the moral of the story is this, don't get cocky and think that you are above the stomach bug! It can and will come back to haunt you. Pray specifically that you will not only not get it on a certain day, but that it will not come AT ALL!

I have my last final tonight....I am really glad that this semester is almost over! It has been a hard one, but I know in the end it will all be worth it!

I hope that you are all having a great day!
Blessings,
Kim

A bug, who's got a bug?

2008-12-05T09:56:00.001-05:00

You know, I should have seen this comin'. We have all been well for far too long now. So someone has to get sick, you know? This time Gertie was happy to oblige us in this area! I thought that I might be able to escape without anyone else getting sick.........but are you kidding? This is our life! All of the kids got sick!

It started on Tuesday night with Gertie. She was complaining that she just didn't feel well. She then got sick and kept getting sick until the wee hours of the morning. We kept her home from school and she felt well enough to go on Thursday.

We were supposed to go see my Uncle that is in the hospital last night when Mr. Man said that his stomach was hurting. I knew what that meant! Just a few short minutes later, he started throwing up! I felt so bad for him, because he didn't know what was happening. He kept getting sick and cried " I don't want to go to the toilet!"

My heart truly went out to him. He was very sick for a while-he couldn't keep anything down, not even pedialyte.

I decided to go to bed, as I knew that Kevin had it under control, and I was not feeling well myself. Just about 30 minutes later, he came in and said that Beatrice had started throwing up too! See, it was a matter of time! No one wants to be outdone!

Say a prayer that I don't get it, because I have a final tomorrow (yes, on Saturday) and cannot miss it! Also that our local store doesn't run out of bleach, cause I need a pretty hefty supply! I am a germ-a-phobe, you know!

I hope that you are having a blessed week, and that everyone in your house is healthy!

Blessings,
Kim

The low down.....

2008-11-29T22:02:00.002-05:00

I hope that you have had a great Thanksgiving weekend so far! Today we tried to get some of our decorations up, but since I am such a freak about them, they didn't all get put up. This is when my control issues really haunt me! I want everything to be perfect! I even went so far this year to get my children another tree that they could decorate on their own! Problem is, they did decorate it and it is killing me not to fix it!

I will not touch their tree.
I will not touch their tree.
I will not touch their tree.

Now, if the tree happens to ~~lose all it's ornaments when I shake it~~ fall to the ground, does it count if I place the ornaments back on in the way that would be ~~how I like it~~ suitable for the kids?

I'm just asking, that's all.............

Anyway, I just wanted you all to know that this week is gonna be crazy for me. I have 3 finals this week, so I didn't want ya'll to think that I had fallen off the face of the earth. Please say a prayer for me on Wednesday, as I have 2 on that day, and then on Saturday I have one.

Feel free to say a prayer for me on the days in between also, really just because I need all of the prayer that I can get!

I hope to post maybe on Thursday. I hope that you have a wonderful week!

Blessings,
Kim

Why yes, I am that crazy.....

2008-11-28T21:09:00.002-05:00

Today is an annual event for me. I am one of those ~~crazy~~ intelligent people who try hard to get the best deal possible. I search high and low to see if anything that I need is at a bargain so low that I can't pass it up. I truly enjoy all of what this day entails.

Getting up so we can leave at 3:30.........beating the rush, or trying to at least! Making the always needed stop at Chick-fil-a, and shopping to our hearts content and til our wallets and credit cards simply can't take any more!

It is more than just the shopping for me, it is about tradition. I have been going with my BFF's for years now. It is alot of fun and something that I look forward to every year!

I was able to get some good deals, and had a great time in the process!

What did you get today? Or are you a home body on Black Friday?

Blessings,
Kim

Happy Turkey day!

2008-11-27T08:14:00.005-05:00

Throughout this last week, I have been sharing things that I am deeply grateful for. I am sure that some of you are thinking that I didn't say the things that we have come to expect everyone to say. Truth be told, I tried not too. It is very easy to say the good ole' standbys.....and not that I am not thankful for those things, but I was trying to think outside the box! But since today is the big day, I saved the best for last!

There are many times that I realize God has blessed me beyond measure. I know that while He loves me unconditionally, that He gives me way too much for my own good! I know that I am undeserving of all that He has entrusted me with.......but am so thankful that He gave it anyway.

The first on my list today are my kids. Have you seen them? They are absolutely the best things since sliced bread!!

I cannot imagine my world without these kids in it! They are the light of my life! I know that I don't do a whole lot of great things in my life, but Kevin and I always say that we did real good with them!! I am thankful for the opportunity that God has given me to raise such smart, beautiful and kind children. I pray that as they grow, their faith grows also.

I am also thankful for my husband. He has put up with me when I am not at my most "Christ-like" days. He knows me and all of my quirks and usually just smiles and nods! He is a great provider and does his job well! I am thankful that we have not thrown in the towel when the going has gotten rough...and it has gotten very rough at times! I am glad that God chose him to have alongside me in this journey of life!

(okay, there is supposed to be a pic here, but for some reason it got stuck up at the top and won't let me move it!)

I hope that you are surrounded by family and friends today and remember all of the things that God has given you to be thankful for!

Blessings,

Kim

Thankfulness......

2008-11-26T19:59:00.002-05:00

I am excited that tomorrow is actually Thanksgiving! It seems as though we were just celebrating this a few months ago. Wow, what a difference a year has made!

Throughout this year we have faced with a number of different obstacles. The most traumatic would have to be that Kevin lost his job.

Without warning, on a March day, his manager walked into the office and said that they were shutting the office down. Everyone was out of a job.

I remember getting the call like it was yesterday. He told me that I had to come and get him. He drove a company vehicle so he had no way to get home. I knew what happened as soon as he said it, and my heart fell all the way to the floor.

As soon as my heart came back to my body, I remembered that God is in control and is still sitting on the throne!

While I knew that we would have to make some significant changes, but I knew that we would be taken care of. I was clinging to the Bible and all of the promises that God has made us.

We had some tense moments and boy, did I think that Kevin and I were gonna kill each other at times. But I do truly believe that it made us stronger, better people. And made us appreciate what God had given us so far.

So as I post today, I am very grateful for the fact that Kevin has a new job. He was without a job for almost 7 months, and it can truly take an emotional toll on a family.

He loves what he does, and is very good at his job.

My heart goes out to those who those who may be unemployed at this time of the year. It is hard enough to manage without the holidays looming over your head.

Job security is something to be thankful for! In this economy you never know when you could be cut loose.

God truly sustained us during that time. Truth is, He always has sustained us and always will!

Blessings,
Kim

Thankful for......

2008-11-25T15:05:00.002-05:00

Today, I feel an extreme gratefulness to some wonderful friends. God has more than blessed me in this lifetime with people who I hold very dear to my heart. I have been fortunate to have some friendships since grade school. Others been cultivated in my adult life.

But any way that you slice it, there is alot to be said for a true friend.

I have had tons of friends, but only few have stood the test of time or trials. I am a people person and have always devoted myself fully to those who I thought would make my life better in some way. But you always know that when the going gets tough that there are some who simply won't cut it.

I am so blessed to say that I have some great, wonderful, amazing, beautiful, giving, friends.

Women that make me want to be a better person.

Women that challenge me in my walk with the Lord.

Women that encourage me along the way.

Women that through thick or thin have the uncanny ability to stick by me.

Women that make me laugh so hard I cry.

Women that know the real me...........and love me anyway.

Women who know that I love to laugh and to make them laugh so hard they pee on themselves...now that is funny.

Women who know secrets about me and would not ever spill the beans.

Women that can allow me to cry on their shoulder, and give me an opportunity to be that shoulder for them.

Oh, how I wish for each and every one of you to know the love that I feel for these women. To know the sheer joy that they bring to my life.

I would love for you to know them and get a chance to be their friend.........but I am selfish and want them for myself.

They are my friends......go get your own!

Blessings,
Kim

The aliens have taken my child.......

2008-11-25T13:48:00.002-05:00

I have been invaded by aliens.....that is the only explanation that I can possibly come up with to justify what is happening in my house, right now.

You see, Beatrice is 11. She likes to live in her own special world...one where she is the queen and has full reign of all things.

But today, she is cleaning.

cleaning.

I really feel like I should check her skin and see if the alien has taken her body fully or just occupied her brain for a while. Either way, there is no way that this is my child.

You see, Beatrice sees a very different meaning of the word clean than most folks. Her idea of personal cleanliness is that she has bathed at least 3 days ago.

Seriously.

So as I am typing this, she is cleaning her bathroom and organizing it. She has just gotten done vacuuming the back porch and her brother's room.

I am giddy.

I also realize that she can now really help me out with the housework, which honestly makes me more excited than I can stand!

I actually heard her say to Gertie that they should help me out so that we can relax tonight as a family.

AWWWWWWW!!!!!!

How sweet is that?

So I must go now, and revel in the fact that the alien has abducted my daughter.........and pray that they come back and replace her only when my house is clean again!

Blessings,
Kim

More blessings.....

2008-11-23T15:10:00.002-05:00

During our church service today, our pastor reminded us that we have alot to be thankful for. I knew that I was one step ahead of him when he told us to count our blessings. He said that one lady decided to write everything down that she was thankful for and came up with over 800,000 things that she was grateful for. Now that is true thankfulness!!

*I am thankful for my church family. There have many times where my church family has been a true rock in time of need. I have grown to love and depend on these people greatly!

*I am thankful for some awesome people that God has sent into my life at the time when I have needed them the most. I can remember a poem about how friends are there for a reason, season, or a lifetime. At this moment, I am thankful for my reason friends. Those are the people that were there for just that, a reason in my life, and they may not have been heard from again....but they served their purpose! I am glad that they were obedient!

* I am thankful that God has placed us right where we are supposed to be at this moment. I am enjoying this time in my life where my kids are happy, Kevin and I are happy, and we are all growing closer to God in the process!

I am hoping that today has found you in the house of the Lord!

Blessings,
Kim

Blessings........

2008-11-23T14:54:00.003-05:00

Since I missed blogging yesterday, I figured that I would give you a two-fer.

In order to keep up with the them for the week, I wanted to share some other things that I am thankful for.

I am thankful for:
*I am thankful that I am healthy.
*I am thankful that my family is healthy.
*I am grateful for the ability to take my children to a quality pediatrician who cares about their well-being.
*I am thankful that within my family.....immediate and extended, there is no one facing a life changing illness.

I know that health is fleeting and that your world can be changed with one phone call. My prayer is that you and your family are healthy this Christmas season.

Blessings,
Kim

More to be thankful for......

2008-11-21T10:19:00.002-05:00

After the post on yesterday, I decided to ask my kids what they were thankful for. Beatrice said that she was thankful for:
*a roof over our heads
*food on the table
*that we have heat

Gertie said:
*thankful for drink-cause if we are eating something and choke, we have something to wash it down with. Can't say I have ever thought about it that way!

Today I am saying:
*I am thankful for my church. If you love your church, hear God's word every Sunday, this is a rarity. I know this to be true, churches are trying more and more to be politically correct. I don't remember anywhere in God's word where it says, "Sugar coat all that is in this book, it can be hard to hear!" Quite the opposite actually......anyway, you get my point! Perhaps this is a post within itself-I'll have to remember this one!

*For my Bible. It has gotten me through some very dark times and has seen me have immeasurable joy.

I am gonna continue this until next week........I will post everyday on the things that I am thankful for!

Blessings,
Kim

Today I am thankful....

2008-11-20T10:25:00.002-05:00

Over the next week, I would like to share a few things that I am thankful for. We take so much for granted, and it is nice to know that we are truly appreciative of what God has entrusted us with. I realize that this may be a bit cliche'd but I really want to acknowledge all of my blessings for Thanksgiving.

I am thankful for:

*My salvation
*My ability to serve and worship my living Lord
*That I have been born in a time that allows me such freedoms in my country
*That freedom, although not free, is paid for daily by such giving and amazing men and women every day.

There is many more things that I am thankful for! I will continue to post some new things everyday until Thanksgiving.

What are you thankful for?

Blessings,
Kim

Excuse me, what........

2008-11-18T11:41:00.003-05:00

Yesterday, I decided to buy a new pair of hair clippers. I did this because I am the one who cuts everyone's hair in the house.

I know, how multi-talented am I?

Anywho, I decided that Mr. Man needed a haircut and opened up the package and left some of the contents on my bed. I cut his hair and realized that he needed to have his nails trimmed also. After all, when your hair is so freshly coifed you should look perfect from head to toe, right?

I put Mr. Man on my bed while I looked for the nail clippers.

Remember that I said there was stuff on my bed from the clippers?

He found the oil that you use for the blades, opened it and spilled it all over his hands!

I grab the oil put the lid back on and found another place for safe keeping.

He then was smelling his hands.........when I asked him what he was doing, he replied,

"my hands smell like a jellyfish"

Ya'll I can't make this stuff up! I have no idea that he even knew what a jellyfish is, much less what it smelled like!

Barrel of laughs, that boy.

Blessings,
Kim

God's prompting.......

2008-11-17T08:34:00.001-05:00

Okay, remember back when I posted this http://cogdillfamily.blogspot.com/2008/09/why-do-i-do-this.html

And I said that I would blog sometimes about things that would be painful or not shed a favorable light on me?

Well, I have one to share.

I share not for any other reason but to say that it hurts God's heart when we are not obedient, and I am proof of that today.

A few years ago, I had a friend that was going through some rough spots in her life. We were not best friends, but she became someone that I enjoyed talking to, and sharing about what God was doing in each of our lives. I went to church with this woman, and she was an active member. I grew to care about her and her family deeply.

When the rough patches hit, I tried to be there for her, but she was a private person, and had a hard time sharing about the intimate details of her life. I vowed to pray for her and her family, and would listen when she needed a ear.

Over the last 2 years or so, she became very wrapped up in the events of her life and began to slowly move away from church and eventually even stopped coming. I was greatly saddened by this, and kept feeling that God was prompting me to contact her.

Did I?

I am ashamed to say, no.

I even got a phone call from a family member.
I told them that I would call or go see her.

I didn't.

What has happened next is something that I will forever have etched in my mind.

I received a phone call from the family member on my home from church this evening. I spoke to this person about how their life is going and was absolutely thrilled to hear from them! Then, God prompted me to ask about this dear woman. What I heard broke my heart.

Not only does this person not live in my hometown anymore, but her marriage has crumbled.

Devastated could not be a more appropriate word for what I felt at that moment.

I missed it.

The opportunity that I had to be there for this woman, I totally missed it.

God spoke to me, and I ignored Him. He gave me a chance to minister to someone and I blew it.

As I spoke to the family member, all I could do was cry.

And apologize.

But somehow, the apology doesn't matter much. It is just another word that flows from my mouth that ended up being an empty promise.

How ashamed I feel right now, knowing that this lady needed someone to be there for her, and I choose to not be there. After all, we are all adults here..........when we don't listen to the prompting of God, we are choosing to be disobedient. I mean, lets call it what it truly is! We are saying that in spite of all He has done for us, that our work that we have planned for ourselves is of greater importance than what He is asking us to do.

As I type this, I wonder........what were my reasons for not reaching out when I was told to.

Was I too busy?
Was it a little too inconvenient?
Was I a little uncomfortable?

Whatever the reason that I gave at the time, I guess it seemed to be good enough for me to have been completely disobedient.

How wrong I was.

I guess that you could say that the purpose of writing this post is simply this.

Follow God's prompting.

We may not understand the reasons that God has behind it, but we should never second guess God.

I am now left in a place of shame and guilt. How could I have done this to another Christian? How could I have been so blinded by my own life that I didn't care that someone needed me?

Here's the neat part, this is where the good stuff kicks in.

God's forgiveness and grace.

In a world filled with bitterness, anger, resentment and unforgiveness, I can turn to my Heavenly Father and know that:
-I am forgiven
-He still loves me
-He will never leave me, nor forsake me
-He will always be there to hold me in His arms and tell me that He is still in control!

See, I am so thankful that God loves me enough to give me that spiritual spanking when I need it, but then turns around and gives me all the love I will ever need.

As for my dear friend, I am going to contact her and ask for forgiveness. I know that she will forgive me, cause that is the kind of person she is!

I can honestly say that I don't know how people who are not saved get through this life. I tried to make it on my own for 27 years and didn't do a very good job. The last 6 years of my life have been the best ever! I am thankful that God didn't give up on me!

Please listen to the prompting of God. You may not understand, but the important thing is to be obedient!

Blessings,
Kim

Tis the season.....

2008-11-16T15:54:00.003-05:00

Have you started your Christmas shopping yet? I have been trying for many years to get organized enough to start early and finish early. I have had better luck this year. I have gotten a few gifts for a couple of people and wow......I sure feel a sense of relief! I am one of those people who wait until the last minute. Not purposely, but it seems as though there is always a reason why I cannot go sooner. Money, time, money, money, did I say money?
I ran across this the other day, and thought that it has a great message behind it.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eVqqj1v-ZBU

I am not sure of the church behind it, but I do know that the message definitely rings true. There are many other things that we should be focused on. We have lost the sense of the true Christmas spirit, and what that means for us as Christians.

As we enter into the season, let us not forget that Jesus is the reason for the season! Let your focus be on the miracle of His birth and His life. But never forget that He died to set you free so that you may be able to live and live abundantly!

Because God has given us so much, share some of the goodness that God has provided you with! Invest in some extra gifts for children that may not be as fortunate. If will make your heart smile and bless that child!

http://www.samaritanspurse.org/index.php

This organization is a wonderful way to give to children around the world. Check out their website and you will find yourself wanting to spread the Christmas spirit.

I hope that this day has found you in the house of the Lord!

Blessings,
Kim

Want some change?

2008-11-11T23:32:00.004-05:00

I know that it has been a week since I last blogged. To be honest, I have had a hard time trying to finds words for my feelings about the election. I hope that this simple statement will allow you to hear my heartbeat in this situation.

I am sad that the person I voted for did not win the election, however, I respect the office of the Commander in Chief and will continue to pray for the office. It is my sincere hope that President Obama will lead our country with lots of prayer and discernment.

That is my 2 cents, in case you were wondering ;0)

Blessings,
Kim

Your right to vote........

2008-11-03T21:37:00.002-05:00

Tomorrow is a big day for our country. As we finally get a chance to have our voice heard, it is so important that we take the opportunity to do the right thing. As I wouldn't want to turn this into a political forum, I thought that I would give my reasons for going and casting your vote tomorrow:

My voice truly does count!
cause many have fought for this privilege that we have freely
Christians should unite together and make sure that the issues that are important are
at the forefront of our choices.
it is important that we are informed about the morals of the candidates.
not letting the media give us a false representation of what they want us to believe.

Praying for the candidate of your choice,
and feeling confident in that decision.
learning what each candidate stands for
in all areas of the election
not just the ones that the media wants you to hear about!

If you read between the lines, you will hear my heart in this election..........
I pray that all of you will go and exercise your right to vote-if you choose not to-don't complain!

This country is the best in the world! I am proud to be an American and love my country! Don't take this responsibility lightly,

Please vote!

Blessings,
Kim

Because all are created equal.....

2008-11-01T21:32:00.002-04:00

After the last few posts, I realized that I have only been talking about Mr. Man. It is not that he is favored, it is just that he does some pretty priceless stuff!

I mean after all, I think that I would be a little upset if Beatrice or Gertie came to me with a can of opened soup and a bucket full of the soup!

So I decided to ask Beatrice if she was offended. She quickly told me no. That made me feel better...........then I replied-

"You really should do some funny stuff, then I could blog about it!"

Enough said.

I truly do love my girls and all of their interesting personality traits.

I realize that Beatrice has my sense of humor, and the older she gets that she is alot of fun to hang out with.

Gertie marches to the beat of a different drum all together, and wears her heart on her sleeve. She is my most giving child, truly wanting for everyone to be happy.

So as of today, I have nothing to share with you........except that they fight alot, but I am sure that you don't want to hear about that anymore than I do!

I pray that tomorrow will find you in the house of the Lord!

Blessings,
Kim

What could these things possibly have in common......

2008-10-31T16:59:00.003-04:00

Now seriously, what could they possibly have in common?

Just when you think that your child couldn't possibly do anything that would make you pee in your pants laughing................

He does it again.

On Monday night I went grocery shopping after school. They had soup on sale and since I am one to take advantage of a good bargain, I thought that I would load up. I personally despise chicken noodle soup, but my kids love it, so I decided to get about 6 cans.

When I got home that night I was so tired and put up the cold stuff and left out the cans of soup, etc. The next morning, I started to put everything away and didn't pay attention to what was there or not. A few minuts later, Mr. Man walks up and says "Here Mommie".

What could he possibly be handing me?

A can of soup.

But wait, it gets better.

Not just a can of soup, but an opened can of soup. This soup can had the new pop-top lid and somehow, he managed to open the can without it opening upward, so he didn't cut himself, but he had actually opened it!

He dumped some soup in his block container! Then he took the pop-top off! How he did it I will never know, but I do realize that he has some serious MacGyver skills.

Imagine my face when he brought all of this to me! Ya'll, I seriously could not contain myself!

He is so sweet, he wanted to share!

I really try to savor the moments like this....I know that all to soon they will be gone.

So what do these things have in common?

The ability to make me almost pee my pants laughing!

Blessings,

Kim

Comments..........

2008-10-30T10:10:00.004-04:00

I have had a few people tell me that they didn't know how to comment on my blog. I thought that I would give a little "lesson" if you will. First of all, I love to get comments. It lets me know that you are reading the non-sense that I am writing, and who you are!

And please-
If you have a blog, please let me know! I love to check out new blogs!

If you have something that you would like to comment on, click on the "comments" button below (right after it says posted by Kim at (time). It will then take you to another screen. Then you would fill in the blanks.

Hopefully this will help :0)

Blessings,
Kim

We have a new family member.......

2008-10-28T13:28:00.003-04:00

You know, there are many times where I realize that my actions are on the verge of total insanity....I know this. I have a few weaknesses in life that I have to really work on, so that they do not get the best of me.

I have a hard time driving by Krispy Kreme when the "hot now" sign is on.

I have a hard time passing up a good sale on bleach or other "antibacterial" items.

I really have an abnormal liking for Christmas decorations and have a hard time finding the right ones to go with my theme.

But there is one thing that I must confess gets me everytime......

"Hi, my name is Kim and I am a puppy-holic."

There, I said it!

I simply cannot pass up a cute, ball of fur.........puppy breath and all!!! (which really is one of my favorite things!)

So......................on Saturday, we went to find a pumpkin. On the way to school I have seen this pumpkin patch and thought that it would be fun to let everyone carve a pumpkin. I was praying for God to take my control issues away from me and to allow me to actually let the kids carve their own.

{GASP}

This may seem like a no-brainer for some of you, but for me, I am all about the decorations.......I especially like it when they are

perfect!

Okay, so I know that this means that my kids usually don't get to carve their own pumpkin or decorate the Christmas tree, but they look really good.

So, in my effort to allow them to be kids and have their own project that I didn't ~~do myself~~ help them with, we went to the pumpkin patch. When we pulled up, a lady met us and said that the pumpkins were actually not in very good shape and we should come back on Sunday.

We decided to go another way home, and my radar is always buzzing for items that we would love.

Off to the left in our local grocery store parking lot was a cage full of puppies!! I asked my wonderful husband to turn around so we could see what kind they were. Turns out they were just my kind!! AMAZING, huh?

I always love a bargain and these were the ultimate bargain..........FREE!!!!

We let the kids get out and see them and they fell in love with all of them! I knew that one might be attainable, but to ask for 10 dogs would just seriously be out of the question!

We looked for the perfect one and got her!

Can I introduce you to our precious new baby....................

LUCY LOU COGDILL!!

She was born on September 12, 2008, and she is about this big (see?) and weighs about as much as a bottle of shampoo. She has brown hair and blue eyes. She is so sweet and we love her already!

We look forward to a long life with Lucy. We have not had good luck with dogs since we have been living here.......sometimes people like to take things that don't belong to them. Our dog was one of them.

I will keep you posted on her progress, as I am sure that she is already the smartest puppy in the world! lol!

Blessings,

Kim

The big announcement.........

2008-10-22T23:47:00.003-04:00

Okay ladies, we have all been there.

*Maybe

You are on the phone with someone that is: not a friend, not family, no one that you even know.
It is an important phone call....
When...........
Your precious baby announces that they have to go potty.

In your quietest voice you tell them to go.

Then you try to continue your conversation.

A few minutes pass and you hear "Mommie!!!!"

Of course you go running to see what exactly is going on.
You are in the bathroom with said child.

Then in all of his sweet glory, your precious offspring yells...............

"Mommie, I poo-poo'd"

Yeah! You say QUIETLY,
because after all, you are still on the phone.

Then he loudly proclaims........

"I poo-poo'd and it was SOOOOO BIG!!!!"

great, wonderful honey! As I lose every bit of dignity that I have with the flush of the toilet.

You know that the lady on the other end of the phone had to be chewing off her hand to not laugh at this carnival side show that we call "everyday life".

Have you been there?

Hopefully not.

Blessings,
Kim

Preparing for.....

2008-10-16T21:24:00.002-04:00

When I first came to the church that I am at now, I remember someone saying (I can't remember who, but I thought it was profound, so I wrote it in the front of my Bible)

"God is preparing you for what He has prepared you for"

I love that.

I love that no matter what twists and turns that my life may make that it is all preparation for something that I am to do in this life. Something that my God has seen fit to ordain just for me!

My life has taken many unexpected paths, but I am thankful that I have faith in the fact that we are promised:

"Being confident of this very thing, that he who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ." Philippians 1:6

"For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope." Jeremiah 29:11

I am so thankful for God's Word. It truly does give me hope, peace and the knowledge that I am a work in progress.....He is not done with me yet!

Blessings,
Kim

Happy birthday Mr. Man...........

2008-10-14T10:50:00.004-04:00

Three years ago today my life was forever changed. Three years ago, God gave me a gift unlike anything that I had ever received, and will not ever get again. On this day, He gave me a son. For most people, a pregnancy is filled with 9 months of waiting on that precious baby and all that being pregnant brings.

I am not one of those people.

I was not given the ability to be a good pregnant person. It is not that I don't like being pregnant, it is just that I can't do it for very long.

I had Beatrice when I was 27 weeks pregnant.

I had Gertie when I was 34 weeks pregnant.

And not to be outdone, I had Mr. Man at 34 weeks also.

So if you look at it, I just got better with time and allowed them to bake a little longer.

With Mr. Man, I started having pre-term labor at 16 weeks. I had to get weekly progesterone shots to keep the bun in the oven til it was at least partially done.

I went on bed rest when I was about 20 weeks. Complete bed rest.

For the last 4 weeks of my pregnancy I was in the hospital.

Not fun, but of course it was just what I did for the sake of my baby's health.

During those 4 weeks-

I cried.......I had 2 other children at home that missed me and wanted me home.

I prayed......God really used this time for reflection and for a chance to have some serious alone time with me.

I watched t.v................alot.

I was more primped than ever before............just in case I would have the baby, I wanted to have clean hair and shaved legs!

I had been having contractions everyday, and I mean everyday since I had been at the hospital. On this particular day, I was emotionally spent. I was hurting so bad and just ready for all of this to be over so I could see my precious gift and get home to my other babies.

I almost begged my doctor to just take the baby............he wouldn't.

Then the contractions kept coming and wouldn't stop. He finally said yes!

I was taken into the delivery room and prepped for the birth of my baby.......words cannot express how excited I was for this moment to finally be here!

We didn't want to know the sex of the baby. We wanted to be surprised as we knew that this one would be our last.

Having 2 girls already, I was almost positive that I was destined to have another girl.

We instructed my OB to not tell us the sex of the baby, but to just hold it up and let us see for ourselves. (I had a c-section)

He held up this wrinkled little, tiny thing..............and it had boy parts!!

I knew that instant that everything would be different..............
and is it ever!!

He is nothing like his sisters. He looks just like Gertie when she was little, but that is where the similarities stop.

He is ALL boy.

ALL.

BOY.

As I am typing this, he is in my bathroom making "boy" noises and getting into everything that he possibly can.

I did not imagine that my world would change as much as it has, but I cannot imagine it not being filled with.........

spiderman toys,

balls and other sports equipment,

cars and the general noises that say a

boy lives here!

I am so thankful that God choose to give me this special gift. I know that He will use Mr. Man in a mighty way.

He is, after all going to be a University of Florida football player/Christian singer/Spiderman by night/preacher.

Not necessarily in that order.

Happy birthday Mr. Man!! I am thankful for you and all of the blessings that you bring to my life!

Blessings,

Kim

Somewhere in between.....

2008-10-11T10:15:00.003-04:00

There is always something comforting about the familiar. Familiar faces, places and traditions. We like to know that there are some things that remain constant.

Like the old friend that we can call anytime.

Like that favorite pair of pajamas that are so comfy.

Like the restaurant that we go to have our favorite meal.

It is amazing how the familiar can be so welcoming.

But.

It can also become well,
familiar.

Let me explain my reasoning behind this profound theory.

I live about 15 minutes from where I grew up, in a different town. I love where I live now. I love everything about it. I love that the schools are absolutely wonderful, I love that my kids are happy here and I love that there is a sense of community.

Problem is, I am not part of it.

We went to a local restaurant here and as I looked around I saw no one that I knew. Now understand, I was not looking particulary fetching that night, so there was no real love loss there.

But as I looked around, I realized that if I were just 15 minutes west, I would know everyone.

Everything that we do revolves around our home town. We go to church there and we have family there. Since we spend so much time at church, it seems that we are in "the hometown" alot. But we live here.

It took some time for me to learn to love my hometown again. After I got married, I needed "new". We moved to another city about 20 minutes away. It was Heaven. I loved living there too. Unfortunately, we had to move back "home". I fought God hard on this one.

Hard. I did not want to move back.

Of course He won.

I kinda liked being anonymous in that big city where I had spent 5 years of my married life. I liked that the mall was right there, that there were MANY restaurants to choose from, and that we could choose to be involved.....or not.

Then, we moved back.

No longer did I have anonymity. Everyone knew who I was, and wanted to know my business.

Oh the joys of living in a small town.

Fast forward 2 different houses and another baby.

So, here I am 2 1/2 years living 15 minutes east of my home town, and I am once again anonymous. Although now, it kind of bothers me.

I long to be part of this community. I want to know who my kids are hanging out with and what their parents are like.

I have made a few friends here (parents of my kids friends).

I am not the person that I was in high school, and am not as "out there" as I once was. It has gotten hard for me to put myself out there.......I really have to make myself.

I am stuck in the "in between" right now. In a place that I love, but with no familiar ties.

I know that this is where we are supposed to be. God has placed us here for a reason. I am to be still until He lets me know that reason.

Until then, I will try to become a little more "not anonymous"!!

Blessings,
Kim

Of this I am sure.......

2008-10-08T09:12:00.002-04:00

*Please take this post with a wink and a smile.

Do you ever wonder what your mansion in Heaven will be like?

I like to think that I will have enough room for me and all my angel friends, plenty of room for entertaining and the ability to snap my fingers and have a clean mansion. I know that all of the disciples will want to come and "hang" at my crib.

But the one thing that I pray I will have in my mansion is a

Krispy
Kreme.

Oh yeah, you know it!

I have said this forever and I know that God truly knows my heart and really will consider this for me.

Maybe.

But on the flip side.

Even though I can't stand the thought of what Hell may be like. I would like to think that I know of two things that will most certainly be there.

As part of the ongoing torture and punishment, I am most certain that everyone will be issued two things when they arrive.

Math books and pantyhose.

That's right, I believe that people in Hell will be doing Math and putting on pantyhose over and over and over and over and over and over again.

That would be enough torture for me.

I am convinced of this even more now as I am taking a math class as a pre-requisite for nursing.

I.
Hate.
Math.

As I am writing this, I am supposed to be studying for a test that I have today.

I feel rebellious.

So as I am trying to pass the word along, please pass it too.

Hell is forever and hot.
It has math and pantyhose.

Of this I am sure.

Have a great day!
Blessings,
Kim

*Disclaimer: Please understand that I DO NOT take Hell lightly. I fully understand that Hell is real, and that there is no light-hearted moments there. My sincere wish is that everyone that you know and love knows and has a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. This is meant to express my sincere hatred of both math and pantyhose, not to diminish the reality of Hell.*

Limits.....

2008-10-05T16:22:00.004-04:00

Putting limits on God.

What does that phrase mean to you?

To me, it means that we are not putting full faith that God can do what He says He will.

We are saying that even though He created the Heavens and the Earth, that He cannot fix our simple lives. I would imagine that some of you are saying, "What, not me-I would never do that!" We do it without even realizing it. We do it without saying a word.

You know the times when you turn something over to God and then take it back? You know when things aren't answered in your time and you start the process of worry and fear?

That is putting limits on God.

I have been talking to my Sunday School class about not putting limits on God. I want to make sure that they understand some things that I didn't at their age. Oh, how I wish that I had the wisdom then that I have now.

I understand that alot of wisdom that I have acquired has been only through life experiences. I came to Christ at a later age than these girls have, and I want them to understand that they have a long time to live for Him. Through the growth in my life, God has shown me many wonderful lessons.

I have learned to be patient. (for the most part-lol!)
I have learned to have more compassion for others.
I have learned to be silent when needed.
I have learned that EVERYTHING is in God's timing, regardless of how I want it to be carried out.
I have learned NOT to put limits on God.

I say this because.......everytime we take control of a situation, we are saying that we feel we can handle it better, faster, or more to our liking.

When we lose faith, we are not allowing God to give us blessings or to allow Him to chastise us.

Although these moments are sometimes not easy, I wouldn't want to miss out on an opportunity for God to show who and what He truly is. I want to give Him room to shine. I don't want to cloud Him out.

We are going to have an opportunity to go on a mission trip over spring break next year. I have always wanted to go on such a trip and am excited to be able to go. The plan is to go to Haiti. I really can't tell you much about Haiti, as a matter of fact I couldn't even tell you where Haiti is!

I know, that is sad, but anyway.............I am super excited about going and would really appreciate your prayers for this journey. We are hoping to have a good group going and would like for some of the college and career to step outside their comfort zones. I know that this is a big trip and will be a little scary for some, but I truly believe that God will work out all issues that may arise.

I want to be able to see God work in a mighty way in Haiti.........well to be honest, I want to see God work in a mighty way in me. I love every opportunity that I have been given to learn more about Him. I am thankful for Godly leaders that I have in my life and for other Godly influences who try to steer me the right way when I have made poor choices.

My prayer for today is that I will always remember that God is in complete control and that He loves me so much! Much more than I deserve. I pray that when I feel God isn't working up to my standards, that He will give me the spiritual spanking that I need to make me realize once again that it is His timing.

I hope that you had a wonderful day at your church and grew even closer to our Lord and Savior!

Blessings,
Kim

What could be bloomin'?

2008-10-03T20:19:00.003-04:00

You know, it was just last month that we all had the crud. Now it seems as though we all have another form of the crud, just not the strep kind. Apparently, something is bloomin' that is making all of our sinuses go crazy! It has really created some issues for Mr. Man who cannot blow his nose yet. I cannot remember when the girls first learned to blow their nose, but I am sure that it must be coming soon for Mr. Man. He looks so pitiful with his nose all red and his eyes pouring with water. He makes me feel so bad for him!

I must say that even when he is sick, he is so cute. I hope that everyone is having a great, non-sick day!

Blessings,

Kim

Why do I do this......

2008-09-30T21:02:00.002-04:00

I have been a huge blog slacker, again! I have been so busy with school and other life stuff that I haven't had time to blog. I have had some people who have questioned why I even do a blog. Well, let me explain.

I truly enjoy blogging. I really do!

I find that it allows me to express some things that might not be found in every day conversation and it also allows me to stay in contact with people that I love and those who might be new friends.

I also enjoy blogging because it allows me to see other people's blogs and find new ones all the time.

I have been very blessed by some of the ways that God is working in other's lives.

I have laughed and have cried,
I have been amazed and ashamed.

It has made me think about my life and the lives of those around me. How my life is not just about me, but that I am to live my life so that others may see the reflection of Christ in me.

How when I make bad choices that it doesn't just affect me, it affects everyone who is within my physical realm.

Blogs allow you to see what makes someone tick.
Understand that there are some blogs that I read just for fun. They are purely for entertainment value and nothing more.

But the majority that I read are in many ways, umm...........special in that they take time to shine a special light that few can see.

That FEW can see.

Sad, but true.

It is my heart's desire that anything that I post will point directly to the one who made me, paid for me and guides me.

Even when the post does not shine a favorable light on me.
As a wife, mother, or a child of God's.

We have to remember that although we are His, that we are not perfect-
just forgiven.

For that, I am grateful.

I am thankful that I am able to read other blogs that share the same heartbeat as mine.

I know that I do not have a huge following, but I know that the few people who read my blog should expect a few things.

They should expect.........
~That I want nothing more than to honor and glorify my Lord and Savior.
~That I will be honest-even if it hurts.
~That I will share things that may be very personal, but I know that someone needs to hear it and can possibly help them with an issue in their own life.
~That if I don't do these things you should not continue to read my blog and should message me and let me know that I have not held up to my end of the bargain.

So, hopefully this post allows you to see my true heartbeat behind this blog.

I like to keep in contact with family as well. I have family in New York that I do not get to see very often, and this is a great way for them to see pictures of my precious babies!

(Hello Aunt Pat and Aunt Debbie!!!) Love you guys....thanks for looking!

As I have rambled on long enough, I am going to get ready for bed-I have school tomorrow!

Thanks for checking out my blog, I truly appreciate it!

Blessings,
Kim

Fun Facts......

2008-09-24T10:22:00.003-04:00

Here are some fun facts about me-the ones that are in bold are the ones that I have done. The ones that are in normal font are the ones that I haven't done.....yet!

1. Touched an iceberg
2. Slept under the stars
3. Been a part of a hockey fight
4. Changed a baby's diaper (a lot of diapers!!)
5. Watched a meteor shower
6. Given more than you can afford to charity
7. Swam with wild dolphins
8. Climbed a mountain
9. Held a tarantula (over my dead body!)
10. Said "I love you" and meant it
11. Bungee jumped
12. Visited Paris
13. Watched a lightning storm at sea
14. Stayed up all night long and watched the sun rise
15. Seen the Northern Lights
16. Gone to a huge sports game
17. Walked the stairs to the top of the Statue of Liberty
18. Grown and eaten your own vegetables
19. Looked up at the night sky through a telescope
20. Had an uncontrollable giggling fit at the worst possible moment
21. Had a pillow fight
22. Bet on a winning horse
23. Taken a sick day when you're not ill
24. Built a snow fort
25. Held a lamb
26. Gone skinny dipping
27. Taken an ice cold bath
28. Had a meaningful conversation with a beggar
29. Seen a total eclipse
30. Ridden a roller coaster
31. Hit a home run (not unless wiffle ball counts!)
32. Danced like a fool and not cared who was looking
33. Adopted an accent for fun
34. Visited the birthplace of your ancestors
35. Felt very happy about your life, even for just a moment
36. Loved your job 90% of the time
37. Had enough money to be truly satisfied
38. Watched wild whales
39. Gone rock climbing
40. Gone on a midnight walk on the beach
41. Gone sky diving
42. Visited Ireland
43. Ever bought a stranger a meal at a restaurant
44. Visited India
45. Bench-pressed your own weight
46. Milked a cow
47. Alphabetized your personal files
48. Ever worn a superhero costume
49. Sung karaoke
50. Lounged around in bed all day (my personal favorite activity of all these!)
51. Gone scuba diving
52. Kissed in the rain
53. Played in the mud
54. Gone to a drive-in theater
55. Done something you should regret, but don't
56. Visited the Great Wall of China
57. Started a business
58. Taken a martial arts class
59. Been in a movie
60. Gone without food for 3 days
61. Made cookies from scratch
62. Won first prize in a costume contest
63. Got flowers for no reason
64. Been in a combat zone
65. Spoken more than one language fluently
66. Gotten into a fight while attempting to defend someone
67. Bounced a check
68. Read - and understood - your credit report
69. Recently bought and played with a favorite childhood toy
70. Found out something significant that your ancestors did
71. Called or written your Congress person
72. Picked up and moved to another city to just start over
73. Walked the Golden Gate Bridge
74. Helped an animal give birth
75. Been fired or laid off from a job (laid off, thankyouverymuch!)
76. Won money
77. Broken a bone
78. Ridden a motorcycle
79. Driven any land vehicle at a speed of greater than 100 mph
80. Hiked to the bottom of the Grand Canyon
81. Slept through an entire flight: takeoff, flight, and landing
82. Taken a canoe trip that lasted more than 2 days
83. Eaten sushi
84. Had your picture in the newspaper
85. Read The Bible cover to cover (that is a work in progress)
86. Changed someone's mind about something you care deeply about
87. Gotten someone fired for their actions
88. Gone back to school
89. Changed your name
90. Caught a fly in the air with your bare hands
91. Eaten fried green tomatoes
92. Read The Iliad
93. Taught yourself an art from scratch (sewing)
94. Killed and prepared an animal for eating
95. Apologized to someone years after inflicting the hurt
96. Communicated with someone without sharing a common spoken language
97. Been elected to public office (does student council count?lol)
98. Thought to yourself that you're living your dream (everyday)
99. Had to put someone you love into hospice care
100. Sold your own artwork to someone who didn't know you
101. Had a booth at a street fair
102. Dyed your hair
103. Been a DJ
104. Rocked a baby to sleep
105. Ever dropped a cat from a high place to see if it really lands on all four
106. Raked your carpet
107. Brought out the best in people
108. Brought out the worst in people
109. Worn a mood ring
110. Ridden a horse
111. Carved an animal from a piece of wood or bar of soap
112. Cooked a dish where four people asked for the recipe.
113. Buried a child
114. Gone to a Broadway (or equivalent to your country) play
115. Been inside the pyramids
116. Shot a basketball into a basket
117. Danced at a disco
118. Played in a band
119. Shot a bird
120. Gone to an arboretum
121. Tutored someone
122. Ridden a train
123. Brought an old fad back into style (Pam!)
124. Eaten caviar
125. Let a salesman talk you into something you didn’t need
126. Ridden a giraffe or elephant
127. Published a book
128. Pieced a quilt
129. Lived in a historic place
130. Acted in a play or performed on a stage
131. Asked for a raise
132. Made a hole-in-one (just in mini-golf!)
133. Gone deep sea fishing
134. Gone roller skating
135. Ran a marathon (just a 5K, but I'm claiming it!)
136. Learned to surf
137. Invented something
138. Flown first class-
139. Spent the night in a 5-star luxury suite
140. Flown in a helicopter
141. Visited Africa
142. Sang a solo
143. Gone spelunking
144. Learned how to take a compliment
145. Written a love-story
146. Seen Michelangelo’s David
147. Had your portrait painted
148. Written a fan letter
149. Spent the night in something haunted
150. Owned a St. Bernard or Great Dane
151. Ran away
152. Learned to juggle
153. Been a boss
154. Sat on a jury
155. Lied about your weight
156. Gone on a diet
157. Found an arrowhead or a gold nugget
158. Written a poem
159. Carried your lunch in a lunch box
160. Gotten food poisoning
161. Gone on a service, humanitarian or religious mission
162. Hiked the Grand Canyon
163. Sat on a park bench and fed the ducks
164. Gone to the opera
165. Gotten a letter from someone famous
166. Worn knickers
167. Ridden in a limousine
168. Attended the Olympics
169. Can hula or waltz
170. Read a half dozen Nancy Drew or Hardy Boys books
171. Been stuck in an elevator
172. Had a revelatory dream
173. Thought you might crash in an airplane
174. Had a song dedicated to you on the radio or at a concert
175. Saved someone’s life
176. Eaten raw whale
177. Know how to tat, smock or do needlepoint
178. Laughed till your side hurt
179. Straddled the equator
180. Taken a photograph of something other than people that is worth framing
181. Gone to a Shakespeare Festival
182. Sent a message in a bottle
183. Spent the night in a hostel
184. Been a cashier
185. Seen Old Faithful geyser erupt
186. Joined a union
187. Donated blood or plasma
188. Built a camp fire
189. Kept a blog
190. Had hives
191. Worn custom made shoes or boots
192. Made a PowerPoint presentation
193. Taken a Hunter’s Safety Course
194. Served at a soup kitchen
195. Conquered the Rubik’s cube
196. Know CPR
197. Ridden in or owned a convertible
198. Found a long lost friend
199. Helped solve a crime
200. Responded to a NJP newsletter (since I don't know what this is....)

I got this off of someone else's blog and thought that it was neat...hope you enjoyed!
Blessings,
Kim

Fishin' with A........

2008-09-20T22:02:00.007-04:00

Two Sundays ago, Uncle Allen took Mr. Man fishing at our lake. Now let me set the stage for you......a 2 year old, a dog running around like a crazy......ummmm.......dog, 7 bystanders, and Uncle Allen. Going fishing for the first time sounds exciting, right? Well, it was.........for the first 5 minutes. As soon as Uncle Allen said that he was gonna take him, I had to grab the camera for some priceless shots.

When we got down to the lake, Mr. Man was eager to start the process. Uncle Allen showed him what to do, but he didn't care about the details, just let me fish!!

Take notice of the technique that Mr. Man is using to fish, that stuff just can't be taught! He may be the first professional fisherman with this kind of hold on a rod!

Let me explain the title of this post. Since Mr. Man has been able to talk, he couldn't say Uncle Allen. He could only say "A". Well, it stuck, and that has been his name for 2 years now. It is with a sadness that I tell you that he can finally say Uncle Allen. So, as my little boy turns 3 next month, he is growing out of certain words for things and it does make me feel sad........like that part of being a baby is gone. Okay, I know that it really is gone, but let me hold onto it as long as I can, okay?

We are so thankful that Uncle Allen invests time with our kids. I can truly say that they are better for him being in their lives. I look forward to many more lessons from A and the love that he provides for my kids.

On a side note, I am glad to pass the torch onto my kids....I spent my childhood with torture filled days from Uncle Allen!! He loves to terrorize them (mainly tickling them to death) and I am glad that I am free from that kind of "love" that he loves to give! May my children enjoy the time that they have with Uncle Allen-he truly is a remarkable person.

By the way, Mr. Man caught 3 fish!! They each weighed 64 pounds and were almost 4 foot long!! Well, that is how I saw it anyway!!

Blessings,

Kim

Credit where credit is due........

2008-09-20T21:55:00.003-04:00

I have been asked about my recent blog change and where the template came from. I changed to this new blog about a month ago and have really enjoyed the look. I wanted to make sure that everyone knew where this design came from. I found this website from another "fellow blogger" and fell in love with it. To make it even better, it is FREE!! Free and sale are my two favorite words!
Here is the link to this website, check it out- they have super cute templates!
http://www.thecutestblogontheblock.com/

I hope that you enjoy their work!
Blessings,
Kim

They call me super slacker........

2008-09-18T22:44:00.002-04:00

Okay, so I knew that it had been a while since I last blogged, but I didn't know that it had been that long! Life has been super busy.....I have been trying for the last 2 weeks to get into the groove. I feel like Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday have been a blur for the last 2 weeks. Once class gets out on Wednesday, I feel like I can start my week. Although everything around me goes on, I feel "absent" from the whole equation at home.
I guess this brings me to another blessing that I have taken note of. It has been really great to know that the kids are home with their Daddy. Not that the alternatives are bad (they are great also), but there is something about knowing that they are with Kevin that makes the whole process seem easier.
So while I will do my best to post a few times a week, I pray that you will understand if it doesn't go exactly as planned. Thank you for taking the time to read about all of my crazy events that I call life. I pray that you are having a blessed week!
Blessings,
Kim

My one wish for today.....

2008-09-04T21:33:00.003-04:00

Good health...........

Seems simple, right?

Well let me tell you, in this house it doesn't seem to be at the moment.

We all have strep throat again. That's right folks, I say again because this is the second time in ONE month!!

Oh, and did I tell you that everyone has it?

Well, almost everyone.

Kevin doesn't have it. Never does get it. Oh, don't get me wrong, I am thankful because he can take care of the kids while I "rest". (insert laugh here, because even though he is home, I can't truly rest for all the screaming, kids running in the room, etc.)

No, seriously.....I am thankful that he is home to help with them.

This time the strep hasn't been bad for 2 out of the 4 of us. Gertie started feeling bad on Sunday night and actually felt better today. She WILL be going to school tomorrow!!

Beatrice and Mr. Man must have missed the memo that they even had strep, because they haven't lost a wink of sleep over it. They did test positive, so they are on antibiotics.

Oh yeah......................side note: Mr. Man took his medicine all by himself (meaning we didn't have to spank, bribe or otherwise demean him into it) LOL!!!!!!! Those parents who have been blessed with compliant children who are willing to do said task, take heart, there is another side out there, and it gets ugly. Words cannot express how happy I was when he said, Mommie, I take my medicine now?

So excited in fact, that today he got his medicine twice.

Yes, I did say twice. Don't worry, he is fine. I called poison control, the doctor's office and the pharmacy. Let's just say that I was slightly freaking out.

Let me explain why this incident happened.

Kevin had to leave early this morning for an appointment. He was being a good Daddy and gave Mr. Man his medicine-but forgot to tell me. So, as I was trying to fix myself some breakfast, Mr. Man came into the kitchen and made his bold statement. Being so excited, I said sure!!

After giving him the medicine and jumping for joy, I hear a voice from in the living room saying "Daddy already gave him his medicine".................What? Do you mean today? Are you sure?

Now I am in panic mode.

I know, it is only an antibiotic, but in my mind it was the same as overdosing on some street drug.

~Overreacting, party of one, your table is ready!

Anyway, after calling all of the said people, I was told unanimously that he would be fine. He may get diarrhea, but he would be okay.

Thank you, cause I was seriously feelin' like crappy Mom of the Year. By the way, I get this award every year, for the last 11 years, don't try to take it, it is mine!

So, after all of this, I have the most humongous tonsils in the history of man. I will spare you on all of the nasty, and I mean nasty details. Although I did take a picture and really thought about posting it!!

I feel like a MACK truck has hit me and then backed up and went for another round. So as I try and get some sleep tonight, I will say my prayers and pray for health.

It is only overrated when you are not the one sick!

Here's hoping that your family is healthy!

Blessings,
Kim

Oh the things that little boys do.......

2008-09-01T09:16:00.000-04:00

No explanation needed........

Why yes, it is a potato.........

2008-08-30T20:42:00.005-04:00

I have a tradition that I started with Beatrice. It is simple, yet makes them very happy. I put them on the counter while I cook.

Note: they are on the opposite side from the stove.....I feel that I must say this so no one wonders!

Something about being in the middle of all the action while I am cooking makes them feel that they are "helping Mommy". I have done it with the girls and just started it with Mr. Man. He really likes being up there and loves to watch me cook.

Last night, I put him up there because we were home alone. He was talking to me while I was cooking supper. I gave him a little snack (which was not a potato) and was doing my thing while watching him out of the corner of my eye. He put his snack down and grabbed a bowl of roasted red potatoes that I was gonna eat earlier. I had left them on the counter and he saw an opportunity! When I looked at him, all I could do was laugh..............(and had to take some pics)

Here he is on the counter digging into the potato!

Showing me his prize!

I love all of the funny stuff that they do at this age!

Blessings,

Kim

Oh Ye of little faith............

2008-08-28T14:11:00.003-04:00

I don't even know where to begin. This has been an insane week-and it ain't over yet!! For those of you who don't know, I am attempting to get into the nursing program. I have only one pre-req left to be able to apply in Feb. 2009.

Or maybe not......

I digress.............

OK, so I attend a college that for some strange, bizarre, unknown reason did not offer Micro-biology in the evening. So after speaking to another college (that I attended after high school......you know, when I was young and stupid-and only cared where the next party was), they told me that I could enroll as a transient student. AH-HA!! Problem solved!!

Or so I thought.

School started on Monday. That's right this past Monday, August 25. I was so excited that I had the only class that I needed, and that everything was working out perfectly!

Silly me.

On Tuesday, I called my home school to find out if I really needed another class. My heart told me that I did, and I wanted to hear a definitive answer from someone higher up.

All I got was the run-around..........and bad advice!

After a whole lot of drama and tears, I decided that it would be in my best interest to go ahead and enroll for the class that I KNEW I needed.

Now, this wouldn't be a blog post and be MY life if it ended there, now would it?

I enrolled for the class, showed up this morning, only to have more drama!

They DROPPED my class! Not micro, just the math that I needed!

ARE YOU KIDDING ME?????!!!!!?????

So, after a few.....okay, more than a few, tears, I headed home. I am sure that you can imagine the car ride home.............

(me talking to God)......
"Here I am, trying to do what I thought YOU would have me do, God-and look at the fuss that has been made! I have bent over backwards to make this work under the situation that we are in, and trying to make sure that this does not interfere with anything at home! Now, I am done! I don't think that I was meant to go to school.........I just am not cut out for it! So, I will wait for a final answer, but I know that I should not be going to school!"

I know............irrational.

But, this is the kind of week that I have had.

There have many personal issues that I would not post on this blog that have also been happening-
this.
week.

So......as I got home and cried to my hubby about the situation, I knew that I only had until 4:00 today to get all of this fixed. I decided to be pro-active about the situation and take the bull by the horns. If it works out, I knew that it would have to be a God thing. If not, I knew that I am not meant to apply to the program in Feb.

One of the hold-ups was a form. Yes, a form. (Sidenote: doesn't it always seem to be a form?)
One that you fill out online and it goes to the appropriate institution to be signed by a few thousand people.

Okay, maybe not a few thousand, but a few, none the less.

This form usually takes a good week to be completed. Let's revisit the facts that I have just stated.
1) I just filled out this other form yesterday.
2) It had to be approved by TODAY at 4:00.

Well, I go to check my e-mail and it says that one person has already approved it. YES!! Now, all I need is 2 more signatures, and I am home-free!
I called my home school and asked to speak directly to the person who signed the last one and they were approving it as we spoke. #2 done!
Then, I called my host school and asked to speak to the lady that signed my last transient form. I had to leave her a message, and just knew that I was done for. I know that the campus is so busy right now, and that her getting back to me before the deadline would be next to impossible.

Oh ye of little faith..........

My home phone rang, and it was her, saying she approved it and I could register for the class that I needed. I burst into tears (while still on the phone) and couldn't thank her enough. I know that everything that happened in that 20 minute span was of God.

Silly me.

Doesn't He ALWAYS come through when we need Him? I feel so ashamed that I thought He was so small, that somehow He would not be able to fix this one. I am reminded constantly how much He loves me and will work things out that in a way that will bring honor and glory to Him. I can honestly say that I don't know how people who are unsaved maintain a normal frame of mind in stressful situations.....I have a hard enough time with the King of Kings on my side. Doing it all alone must be awful. I must confess that while I KNOW that He is on my side, I do not always rely on Him in the way I should. OBVIOUSLY!!

So I will take the classes that God has for me and I believe that I am in there for a reason.

My prayer for today is that I will not limit God. That I will remember that in any situation, He is present, and will intervene on my behalf.

Blessings,
Kim

It's Potty Time.......

2008-08-22T21:30:00.005-04:00

Well, Mr. Man is a big boy!! He is using the potty now, alot! Although it makes me proud, it makes me feel sad to know that he is that big. I have always potty-trained my kids so that by the time they are 3, they will be wearing no diapers. I realized that I better get on the ball with Mr. Man because his birthday is in October. I tried several times before, but had to remember that when they are ready, they will just do it!

I bought him a potty seat a few months ago, but there was no interest in it.....other than the fact it played music!! I just kept asking him if he wanted to go, and then one day-HE WENT!! We were all surprised, even him! Ever since then, he has been pretty consistant with it. We still have him in pull-ups at night, but as soon as he wakes up, he gets to choose his underwear.

Oh yeah, that is another thing....after having 2 girls, it is hard to remember to say underwear and not panties. Mercy, who knew that things were so complicated?

I put him on the potty seat the other day and captured some pretty funny pics........some that I am sure he will appreciate when he is older!! By the way, he is watching Hairspray on the TV. He absolutely loves that movie and knows every line...too funny!

So as we go into this new chapter of life, I look forward to the days with no diapers, but know that I will miss my little boy!! I know that things will be different.....some in a good way, (and not so stressful) and some will be a constant reminder of how fast they grow up.
I want to remember all of these times in my children's lives............

Blessings,
Kim

Goodbye summer, hello school.......

2008-08-21T21:39:00.007-04:00

Well, it is finally here! The one thing that I love/hate the most-school. Like most stay at home Moms, it is a breath of fresh air to have the summer months begin......not to have a schedule, to be able to have some freedom with our day. Then, it gets old. Real old, real fast. The older that I get, the more I realize that I do like structure. Don't get me wrong, I like to be able to enjoy a day without being worried about the time, but I have a tendency to wander aimlessly. So, when Monday came, I was singing "Oh happy day!" I felt as though I could conquer the world. I knew that I wanted to start some new habits, and this was the perfect day to start.

I have been a member of http://www.flylady.net/ for a few months now, and I feel like it is finally starting to sink in. If you struggle with getting all of your to do list finished and feel frazzled, then this is a great place to start. She has wonderful ideas that really make sense, and doesn't threaten your life with unrealistic expectations. I have found alot of her ideas to be very insightful, and have even started to really pay attention to some personal habits that I have.

So, as I got ready on Monday morning, I realized that my "baby" was going into the 6th grade!!

AAAAHHHHH!!!!!

Where has the time gone?

I look around and see that my middle child is going into the 2nd grade, and I am quite certain that she will be getting married in about a week.......and then I am absolutely convinced that it will be another 6 months and Mr. Man will be attending the University of Florida!

We have a tradition for the first day of school. We get up and I make a big breakfast of anything that they want. This year they wanted pancakes, sausage and orange juice. Then we get dressed and go outside to take pictures. I like that I have done this since Beatrice was in kindergarten. It is fun to go and look back on how much they have changed.

I usually go into the classroom and take a few pics with the teacher and with some friends, but this year I was rushed!! The teachers were really on the ball and I was not able to take any pictures, but I did get the ones outside...................

Gertie is such a diva!!

My baby is growing up too fast!!

After snapping a few pics and dropping the girls off at school, we were headed home. As we were walking, Mr. Man wanted me to take his picture. He had to pose for a few shots himself........

Mr. Man loves to have his picture taken!!

Here is to another school year....I look forward to what this new one brings!

Blessings,

Kim

Funny how that happens..........

2008-08-12T23:08:00.003-04:00

Having children is such a blessing! You know, when you could eat them up because they have done something so precious....you know those times! I have tried hard to maintain our devotional time with the girls, and it is amazing the dialogue that has come out of these sweet times. We usually don't make Mr. Man sit with us.....it is nearly impossible to make a 2 year old sit still! We always ask him to come and pray.....and it is soooooo sweet! I have to help him, but I know that he thinks that he is a big boy praying to God!! He always tells him "thank you for today, and help me be a "dood" boy (his word for good). It is such a simple prayer, but I am thankful that he wants to be good.
The girls have been really neat to teach. But it is always awesome when I learn from them! Sometimes, we forget that we are capable of learning from them and do not allow them to teach. Well, tonight was a lesson for me......one of many that God has tried to continually POUND in my feeble little head.

So, we always have the girls say something that they would like to ask forgiveness for. It does vary, but I have noticed that over the last 10 days or so, that the common thing that they are asking forgiveness for is being hateful to each other. While I am so glad that they are recognizing that they are being ugly, I would like to see some acts of true repentance.

I remind them that true repentance means to turn away from sin.

Turn away. Meaning not going back the way that we came.

As I explained that they need to ask for forgiveness and then ask for God to help them not make the same mistake again....................

God: Excuse me.

Me: I'm sorry, what?

God: Funny how that happens.

Me: (Trying to be cute) What do you mean? (knowing I knew what He meant)

God: Well, it seems to me that we have been over this same thing time and time and time
time again! Now, you are trying to teach this to your daughters, and well, now you
know how I feel.

After a conversation very similar to this with my Heavenly Father, I realize AGAIN that..........while I feel disappointment in my girls when they disobey, God feels the same way when I am in sin. He loves me so much that He will punish me, and wants me to lean on Him so that I won't go down that path again.

And when I get a spiritual spanking, it hurts..............alot.

Worse than any I ever received from my dad growing up. It is during the time of punishment that I know He loves me...........and then He picks me up and tells me how much!! He loves me and will always be there for me. So much that He died for me.

So, while I hope to tell you that the girls are getting along a little better, I wish more than anything that they will know that despite their sin,

I will always love them
and Jesus will too!

Blessings,
Kim

To protect the innocent......

2008-07-30T18:11:00.001-04:00

You know the show where they say that they are changing the names to protect the innocent? I can't remember the name of it, but it makes perfect sense. I have made a decision that I would edit all of my previous posts, and would change the names of my children on this blog. I will no longer be referring to them by their real names, but nicknames that we call them at home.

So that there is no confusion, I will explain,

*Our oldest daughter, her "blog name" will be Beatrice. She is 11 years old and going into the 6th grade.
*Our second daughter will be called Gertie. She is 7 years old and will be in the 2nd grade this year.
*Our son will simply go by "Mr. Man". I have called him that since birth, and it is fitting since everyone always says that he is a little man. He is 2 years old.

I am sure that all of you Moms out there understand my fear. I do not want anyone to harm my children in any way, and feel that I need to protect them. I am reminded that although I have SEVERAL irrational fears, that I must follow my instinct on this one.

I have already changed their names throughout the entire blog, so for those of you who are new, there should be no confusion. For those who know us personally, you will catch on quickly!

Thank you for your understanding!

Blessings,
Kim

In control.......

2008-07-30T16:04:00.004-04:00

You might want to get a snack and a coke for this one....

Whew....times have certainly changed. I remember being in elementary school and coming home after a long day. The only thing that I thought of was playing! I didn't want to do homework or straighten my room (some things never change), I just wanted to go outside and play. Remember how we would throw our books down and run for the nearest door? I would be gone until dark-thirty for sure! My Mom would just KNOW that I was okay and didn't bother me.....the feeling was mutual, cause I knew that if I bothered her I would have to do work! So, off we would go...around the neighborhood-around the crazy neighbor who would always try to talk to you (don't ask-I still have nightmares) and we would just play. Not a care in the world.....

Fast forward a FEW years.....(at least in my mind)

My kids are what you would call inside folk.

They like to play outside, but not like we did. It makes me feel sad for them. They don't have neighborhood kids to play with. They do have each other, and that was more than I had. Being the only child was often not fun.........but I am okay with it....
Really.......(sniff-sniff). I am well adjusted!! LOL!! (Just kidding Momma)

Anyway, back on topic. Follow me here, I promise this will make sense. So, I realized that part of the reason that my kids don't play outside is me!! I am a crazy, paranoid Momma! When they go outside, I worry...
I worry that a snake will come from the lake and sniff them out and bite their little heads off.

I worry that the mosquitoes that are biting them will certainly give them west nile virus.

I worry that someone will come into the yard and snatch them (although they would most certainly beg to return them!).

I worry that someone will fall, break a limb, and I won't hear them.

See?

It is my fear that keeps them from the childhood that they deserve (example: the candy...........if you don't understand-you will have to go back and read previous posts)

What in the world did our parents do? I mean, if we were gone too long, they would come out and look for us, but I do not ever remember hearing "Did you put some bug repellent on? Don't talk to strangers, remember, STRANGER DANGER! "

And I can assure you that I never, not once heard "Watch out for snakes, cause they will bite your head off".

Where in life do you get the fear? Is it when your child is born and God says "Here is your beautiful child that I have allowed you to borrow....oh, yeah and here is your own personal helping of fear!"

I don't think so.........

I think that we have become a world that is riddled with fear. We cannot turn on the news without hearing about how some poor child has been taken-or worse. I cringe at the thought of something happening to my precious babies.

As we speak, my eldest child is at Mission Impact 08'. She is in Orlando....without me....for the first time.

It was hard to let her go, but I knew that I had to. She was more than ready and wanted the opportunity to share her faith with others. I have talked to her several times and she is having a blast! I am glad that I let her go, but I miss her terribly! She called on Sunday to let us know that they went and prayed for the little girl that has been missing for 2 months in Orlando. She said that the press was everywhere. She got really upset and realized that it was a little to close for her. See, her brother is 2, and she said that she couldn't imagine what the family must be feeling. Wow, that was a hard parenting moment. She was not here for me to comfort, so I just reminded her who is in control.

As I remind her, I need to remind myself. God is in control of every situation.

Every.

Situation.

So, I will allow them to play outside with the mutant mosquitoes, man-eating snakes, and the people that could possibly lurk in the bushes. All the while I will remember that I turned out fine....and I played outside everyday.

Blessings,
Kim

ABC's of Me........

2008-07-26T20:45:00.003-04:00

A. Attached or single? Happily attached
B. Best friend? I am blessed with several...Jennifer, Charnelle, Lori, Christy and Tracey
C. Cake or Pie? Hmmm........depends-I love key lime pie and I love the volcano cake at The Chart House
D. Day of choice? Sunday
E. Essential items? My Bible, cleaning products, lotion (current fav. is Enchanted Orchid)
F. Favorite color(s)? Sage and yellow
G. Gummy bears or worms? Worms
H. Hometown? Starke, Florida
I. Favorite indulgence? I love birthday cake ice cream and Krispy Kreme Doughnuts
J. January or July? January...I love the cold!
K. Kids? 3 blessings....2 girls and 1 boy
L. Life isn't complete without? Jesus
M. Marriage date? May 25, 1996
N. Number of brothers and sisters? None....I am the only :0(
O. Oranges or apples? Oranges
P. Phobias? I really don't like clowns or spiders
Q. Quotes- No matter how bad it is, it ain't that bad! I really have too many to put here...I love quotes!
R. Reasons to smile? I am bought and paid for by my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ :0), my hubby loves me, my children love me, I have wonderful family and friends, I have a roof over my head and food on the table, my kids are healthy, God has given me numerous blessings that I do not deserve!!
S. Season of choice? Winter......around the holidays (although in Florida we don't get alot of true winters!)
T. Times I've gotten a ticket? 4 or 5??? I can't remember!
U. Unknown fact about me? I would love to be in a broadway show
V. Vacation of choice? I love New York and California...if money were no object, I would go on a cruise around the world.
W. Worst habit? Procrastination and being a perfectionist (I know, it doesn't make sense)
X. X-ray or ultrasound? X-ray (ultrasounds aren't fun when there is no baby to look at).
Y. Your favorite food? Mexican or Korean....the hotter the better!
Z. Zodiac sign? Aquarius.....but I don't really pay attention to any of that.

I thought that I would do something fun for this post, and maybe it would give you some insight to what makes me tick. I hope that you are having a blessed day!
Blessings,
Kim

And they're off.............

2008-07-24T16:58:00.015-04:00

We entered into that stage of childhood/teenage development last year (sometime in October) where we try to straighten what has become crooked about their smile. Beatrice was very excited to get braces, and thought that it was neat.......for a while. I have always felt strongly about my children getting braces. If they needed them, I would find a way to make it happen. Fortunately, some family members were a few steps ahead of us, and helped us find a good doctor. We love our doctor....... Dr. Timothy Wheeler He is great with Beatrice, and is very good at explaining everything that he is doing. He is at the University of Florida School of Orthodontics.

Before she got the braces on, we wanted to take pics of her teeth

This pic was actually a while before, but you get the idea...

She has had her braces for months and we were gonna see how all of the teeth were coming in (or out) and decide what to do next. Two visits ago, Dr. Wheeler decided that she could have them taken off, and would fit her for a retainer.

The day we went to have them off

I know that it probably seems weird, but I was kinda sad to see them go! I think that she looked cute with them, and made me feel like she was still a little girl.

So, after he took them off, she said that they felt slick and weird! She is trying to adjust to the retainer, and has a hard time saying some words, but is getting used to the different feeling.

She has lost another tooth since Tuesday, so she has 2 big gaps now! We have told her that we could put a chicklet in the space to fill it.......she is not too keen on that!

This is with the retainer..........

This is without the retainer.......

So, now all we have to do is allow some teeth to come in. She may have to get braces again, but we will have to wait and see.

She had these taken off on Tuesday and boy, was that a day!!!! I will explain in a later post. Here's a hint: 3 sick kids, a hospital visit and a spanning of 3 counties!!

Blessings,

Kim

New Look.........What do you think?

2008-07-23T16:43:00.004-04:00

So, since I started blogging in April, I have not liked the look of my blog. I have tried 2 or 3 different templates, and just got tired of them after a while. So I found a website of someone who has several free templates (free is always good :0) ! ) so I thought that I would take advantage of her hospitality. I downloaded this template.....what do you think? I kinda like it, and it is a good change from what I had before. I will keep it until something else catches my eye. Check out Amy's website at Split Decisionz . She has some really neat ideas for blogging. I also checked her "about me" and see what a neat person she is! She is a mother to 3 boys (bless her!) and she writes or contributes to several blogs. I also invite you to check out another of her blogs, In Pursuit of Proverbs 31 This sweet lady loves the Lord and is sharing her talent to shine Jesus to others. Please check out her sites, she is truly a blessing.
I hope that you are having a wonderful day!
Blessings,
Kim

Sour face!

2008-07-16T19:36:00.008-04:00

What is it about lemons that kids find fascinating? It seems as though no child can resist that yellow ball of pure sour. Well, I have given Mr. Man a taste of lemon before, but he hasn't asked for a while to have another one. On Saturday night, I was cutting some and he kept saying "Mommie I want some". I figured that he would take one lick and throw it away, but he was persistant in trying to conquer over that lemon. I had to grab my camera to try to capture this quest.........

Blessings,

Kim

Summer Fun...........

2008-07-08T11:09:00.001-04:00

Okay, so since we have decided that we are not going on any type of vacation, the family made a purchase that would benefit all of us and make the summer a little more bearable. The girls got gift cards from Wal-Mart for their birthdays, and made the decision to buy a "family" item. With a little help from other family members, we were able to buy a pool. Sounds simple, right? Well, lets just say.................NOT!! Did I mention that we live on a hill? Poses a little problem, right? NO...a huge problem!!! So, after all of the work ( I will spare you on all of the horrific details) and the filling and dumping of the water 2 times, we finally have our pool filled!! YEAH!! The kids are really enjoying it-which was the desired affect! So I wanted to post some pics of them swimming..........

Blessings,

Kim

Where has the time gone?

2008-07-01T07:21:00.005-04:00

I can't believe that it has been 17 days since I last blogged. Alot has been going on!! For starters, we had our Vacation Bible School at church last week. That in itself is enough to make anyone exhausted!! I love VBS, and look forward to helping every year. This year's theme was Power Lab. We had alot of science experiments and the stage was set up to look like a lab. We are very blessed to have the best children's pastor, ever!! Bro. Jeff Summers and his wife Carol Ann do a wonderful job of bringing God's Word down to the kids level. This year is very special to me, because Gertie asked Jesus into her heart on Friday. I found out from another leader and ran upstairs to see what was going on. She was talking with Mrs. Gina and when I asked her what she was doing, she said "Asking Jesus into my heart." Of course, if you know me, that was all it took.....I was boo-hooing all over the place. I made sure that she understood everything, and then we went downstairs to tell a few special people about her decision. While we were walking around she said "Mommie, I can't stop crying!!" I told her not to worry, because I couldn't either! So, Friday was very special for us. She is a special little girl and I am glad to know that my two daughters are going to be with me in Heaven! Gertie will be baptized on Sunday night. But for now, we will continue to pray for Mr. Man........God will certainly have His work cut out for Him there!! lol!!
We have also been doing some work in the yard. No, not the normal kind-we have been putting up an above ground pool. Let me say this.......we live on the lake...on a HILL!! Yeah, I know, not the most convenient place to put a pool, but we thought that it should be easy enough to dig into the ground to make it level.........after 3 tries we still don't have it level!! So, needless to say, this has been aggrevating!! The girls had some gift certificates from their birthday and other holidays and wanted to use them to buy the pool. With our situation and with gas prices, we thought that it would be a good idea for some built in summer fun. I think that it will be as soon as it is level!! So, we will be swimming in a pool that is leaning to one side-at least for a couple of days. We have told the kids every day that they had to wait....I can't bear to make them wait anymore! Mr. Man keeps saying that he wants to go "simming, Mommie". Sometimes you have to laugh so you won't cry!! When we actually get IN the pool I will post some pics, but until then, say a prayer that we can actually get in it!
Blessings,
Kim

Enduring...........

2008-06-14T01:10:00.003-04:00

I haven't blogged in a few days......I kinda felt that there was nothing exciting to write about, but then I realized that I was just going through a listening time. Listening to what????? Well, My Heavenly Father. I have been going through some personal issues and knew that I needed to rely on God with my whole heart. You know, saying that phrase seems easy, right? I mean, for those who call themselves Christians, we are supposed to lean on Him with everything that we have-but how often do we give it to Him, and then take it right back? I know that I am guilty of this.....just because it is not in OUR timing, we feel that God has somehow "stepped out to lunch" and is not aware of our situation. But I have been confronted with how much God is in control over the last 3 months. I know that nothing happens without His approval. Sometimes that may bring pain for us, but He will see us through that pain. Now notice, I did not say that He would take the pain away, but He will walk along side us as we endure.
So, as it has been almost 3 months since Kevin lost his job, we are in an "uncomfortable" time. We are not able to go and do as we were accustomed, and that has taken some adjustments, but nothing that has been too painful. We are really trying to multi-task to save on gas and have stayed home ALOT!! We have learned alot about each other during this time....I believe that is one of the reasons that God has allowed this storm to come to our family. Things have been fairly easy until recently. I told Kevin that I just wanted to go buy something!! You know how sometimes a purchase can make everything seem better!! Well, I am not able to do that at this time......oh wait, I did go to the dollar store and I bought a mini-cutting board!!!! It cost me a whole dollar!! I was excited with that purchase (I needed one!) and it fulfilled that need that was creeping up within me!
So, it is with a humble heart that I ask for your prayers. We are in need of an amazing job for Kevin! I know that since it has been this long, that God has something way beyond what we would ever ask for, in store for Kevin. Coming into these summer months when the kids are out of school, it is nice to have him around, but we need the income!! LOL!! That air conditioner doesn't pay for itself!! Some of you may be wondering if anything has come his way. Well, he has actually had a couple of offers. We have carefully considered each one, and we do not feel that the Lord is leading us in either direction. Either the pay was not what it needed to be, or there were insurance issues, or the drive, etc. Kevin and I have both agreed that if we do not feel it is in God's will, then he cannot accept it! We all know that the worst place to be for a Christian is out of God's will!
Thank you for those who have already been in prayer for this situation.....we know that people are intervening on our behalf. We are excited for what God has in store for us! I am sure that the best is yet to come!!
Blessings,
Kim

shuckin' the corn......

2008-06-10T22:55:00.002-04:00

I think that there are some things that every kid should experience. In my childhood, I had the pleasure of having fresh vegetables and getting to do the work to eat them. I can remember going into the corn field and breaking the corn (and running into snakes and other yucky creatures). I also have fond memories of eating english peas right off the vine and watching the bats fly around my grandparents house in New York. Those were the good ole' days!!
I am finding that the older I get, the simpler I want life to be. I am not interested in complicated and want my kids to see that we don't always have to be in a rush-I want to slow the pace and enjoy life!
We have been blessed to have great family and Uncle Tommy gave us a bushel of fresh corn on Sunday. Since we were busy on Monday, we knew that we needed to shuck the corn today. It was quite an experience!! Mr. Man was down for a nap, and we took the girls on the back porch and showed them what to do. They were so excited to be a part of the process and enjoyed it when they found the silk worms!! They wanted to know if they could keep them for pets!! Of course, that was a big NO!! But I must say, it was nice to see them so interested in working to get fresh food. We tried to explain the difference between the taste, (between fresh and frozen) but we knew that it would be clear when they tasted it.
I am glad that I was able to show them how to put corn up. It is something that I wanted to be sure to pass along. As we ate some of the corn for dinner, Beatrice said that she could taste the difference!! I hope that as they grow they too see to slow down and enjoy what life has to offer!

Blessings,

Kim

Don't forget to eat the oreos.......

2008-06-05T20:17:00.003-04:00

I am so guilty......I know that I am. With out even knowing it, I became the parent who doesn't let their kids eat alot of sugar, cookies, cake, etc. I always let them have birthday cake or other treats when we are out, but at home, it is done in moderation. Now understand, I am not completely overboard with it. but it is a running joke with some friends how I withhold some of the "goods" from my kids. It is not to be mean, but I just feel like I don't want to give them too much of a good thing, you know? I guess that there is a part of me that feels like I might be contributing to a bad habit.......probably silly, I know!! I didn't even realize that I did it until a few years ago when I went to clean out my pantry, and there it was.........TONS of candy!! Candy from Halloween, Christmas and even Easter!!! How ashamed I was.....that I had not allowed my children to have the right of passage that every kid deserves!! Now understand that I do mean in moderation-there are too many children who have free reign over the pantry, and I do not want to give way to that, but I have become too rigid about some things. I realize that I also had a ton of cookies that my kids get when they get a kids meal from Johnny's that I have just put neatly into the pantry.
I said all of that to say this..............today, I went to Johnny's to get kids meals for my kids. Both of the girls got "terrific kid" and so we had coupons for some free meals. We all sat down at the table,and I distributed all of the food,and then I saw them.....,the oreos in the bottom of the kids' bag. I did what I always do, and just ignored them, almost like they would go away!! Then something came over me............................I digress.........
Last night, I read another blog that literally shook me to my core. I can honestly say that I have not cried that hard in a long time! This blog made me take a hard look at what I find so "important". I cannot imagine the grief that this family is going through, and was taken aback at the grace in which Angie is able to share all of her personal feelings. I ask that all of you please be in prayer for this dear family, and would like for you to visit the blog for yourself
http://www.audreycaroline.blogspot.com/ Start at the beginning, and prepare to laugh, cry and be incredibly blessed! After reading the blog, I couldn't sleep and literally woke up with my eyes so swollen from the tears that it was a huge reminder all day long.
So, after everyone ate..........I got the oreos and let everyone eat them!! I realize that life is so fragile, and that we need to embrace every stage of life that our children are in! For me to allow them to be kids is one of the greatest gifts that I can give them....I pray that they look back on their childhood and remember the days fondly and know that I always let them eat the oreos!
Blessings..........and many bags of oreos,
Kim