Mrs. Pitts' Cookies

There is nothing better than eating a batch of my friend's chocolate chip cookies. I have her recipe, but mine never turn out as good as hers. I'm not sure why. Every year for my birthday I ask for an entire BATCH of her cookies. That's all I want. And to be honest, I don't share many of them either. So, as I patiently wait for my two sticks of butter to come to room temperature, I thought I'd blog. For Tammy!:)

I am starting back on Weight Watchers on Monday. There really is something psychological for me having to start on Monday. I wonder why. Anyway, this Monday I am back on points. My friend has asked me to stand up with her as she gets married, so I must lose this poundage. I am so honored that she would ask me at all. At first it was just going to be her three children in the wedding, but then the groom-to-be wanted his two adult sons in it as well. And that, well, made it all uneven!:) So I am there to even things out a bit! This is the second marriage for both of them. The event will take place November 19th outside. The bride will wear this. Yes, in Navy. It will look fabulous on her! We are not sure of the dress I will wear, but it may possibly be this.

I am so tired today. I have been getting up at 6:00 am, when Olaf leaves the house, to get Caleb on the bus. During the summer I slept in with Josiah. Olaf would fix Caleb breakfast before he left for work and then turn the TV on. Caleb would watch TV in the living room while I slept in. Well, welcome back to reality darlin'. I guess Grace woke up crying last night and I didn't even wake up! That NEVER happens.

Olaf has been busy trying to adjust to his new world as foreman. He has a pager now and I can bug him at any time. Gotta love that!:) Nothing like being in a meeting and your wife is paging you with, "Hey, can you pick up some milk on your way home!"

Off to feel the butter. Hopefully it's soft. I doubt it though. Just like a watched pot never boils...felt up butter never softens.

Weddings, cakes and invites...oh my!

I went with my friend to look at wedding cakes today. The one she is getting is really simple and elegant. Then we went to look at some wedding invitations so I could have an idea of what she likes. I plan on making them myself. The only problem is my ink jet printer doesn't do such a great job on cardstock. Stephanie, how do I remedy that? Do you have a laser printer?

Olaf was officially announced as foreman today. Yes, he got the job. I couldn't post it until it had been announced to the world just in case some spy from Delta reads my blog. The shop he is taking over seems to be tough, but Olaf is cool and level-headed. He'll do well there I think. He didn't get a warm reception when he was introduced to the guys. I guess they want Olaf to earn their respect or something. He got a little pay raise, so that is good. A little is better than none. Now pray that Delta stays in business!:)

We are planning a wah retreat in November. We are meeting in Destin, Florida at this resort. Mari very kindly gave us her timeshare. Nothing like a weekend with women you have never met before but you KNOW they will become great friends in just hours. I can't wait to meet everyone. I hope some of the moderators can go, but everyone knows they are such snobs! (rolling eyes at their snobbishness-not at all jealous) I do think it would be great to meet Becky or Dana or Heather. I already know I'm meeting Cheri in October because I am going to stalk her. I know where her daddy is a pastor here in my hometown, so if she refuses to visit me...I'm stalking! In all honesty, I have made some wonderful friends via the internet. It will truly be a blessing for me to meet these women. I feel so blessed.

Oh My!

I weighed this morning. I have gained back 9.5 pounds since my lowest weight! YIKES! Starting WW again today.

Roses

Aren't they pretty? I'd love to give Olaf complete credit, but I cannot. I basically told him I wanted them and he sent them. OK, so it's not romantic but I got the roses. Eighteen of them. We've been dating 18 years this month. I put two and two together, he did not. I love him anyway!

I'm going to be an Aunt

Olaf's brother's wife (got that?) just found out that she is pregnant. This is their first baby and they are thrilled. How fun. I remember when I found out I was pregnant with my first. I walked on clouds for the first few weeks. Children are truly a blessing from the Lord!

Enter the world of Narnia

This is where my husband spent the last four hours. Handing out all kinds of promotional items from the world of Narnia. Do you want some? Leave a comment and I'll send out the goodies he was giving away. Nothing major, but fun none-the-less!

Becky gave me her hand-me- down banner! Well, let's be honest. I just begged her if I could have it and she finally relented. Then she went in and changed the color of my background to make it more appealing to the eye. Do you love it??? Thank you Beckster! You are the best.

Grace

I just waxed eloquent to my four year old on the reasons we should be kind to our siblings and not throw a fit when they won't comply with my little general's orders. After the lecture I asked her if she understood what I just said. "Nope" was her reply. So I broke the lesson down into sentences? "Are you supposed to use kind words?" "Yes" came the sweet little answer then she said, "Can we talk about this the next time I get in trouble?"

Narnia

Have I mentioned that our family (especially Olaf) are big Chronicles of Narnia fans? The movie, "The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe" is coming out December 9th and Olaf has volunteered with two different organizations to help promote the movie. This Friday night he is going to MegaFest (shaddup!) to work a Narnia booth there. The traffic is going to be absolutely horrendous, but he'll get a free Narnia T-Shirt! LOL! If you want more info on the movie, go here. It's a great site. Did you know our cat's names are Aravis and Shasta from the book "A Horse and His Boy" from the Chronicles of Narnia? We have the audio series from Focus on the Family Entertainment too. We listen to them often in the car. I cannot wait for the movie to come out. If you haven't read the books, you really need to.

It's late.
Bullet statements.
Riding lessons canceled at last minute.
Hate that because I had just woken up Josiah.
He was awake from 3:30 am to 6:30 am this morning.
I woke him up at 8:40 and she calls at 8:55 to cancel.
We normally leave the house at 9:20 am.
She had a dentist appointment.
Rescheduled for tomorrow.
Hope it doesn't rain.
Picking up Molly after riding lessons.
The children love to play with her.
Poor Molly.
Smothered to death whenever she comes over.
Desperately need to walk.
Desperately need to lose weight.
Have a training walk planned for this Saturday morning.
Hope it isn't too hot and muggy.
Plan on walking 12-14 miles.
Currently jealous of Mari.
She gets to go to tanning beds and buy expensive dresses.
I'm pale and frumpy!:)
Thinking of rewarding myself with plastic surgery once I lose 30 more pounds.
I want it all.
Tummy tuck.
Breast augmentation.
Liposuction.
The whole kit n kaboodle.
Can't afford it so it will remain a dream!:)
Found new lipstick that I lurve.
Covergirl makes it.
Kroger had it on sale for $5.99 and I had a dollar off coupon.
I bought two!
It really does stay on all day.
And it doesn't rub off on anything.
Not even your children when you kiss them.
It's the little things in life that give me pleasure.
Had an appointment with the ENT doctor today.
My throat looks fine.
If I get reinfected he wants to take out my tonsils.
Pray that I don't get reinfected.
Olaf still doesn't know if he made foreman.
The guy hasn't even made up his mind yet.
And you call that a good manager?
C'mon already.
It's been two weeks!
Make up your flippin' mind!
Time for bed.
Leave a comment.
'Night!

I went to the 3-Day Expo today in Atlanta. It was informative. The other Misty from Newnan (yes, there are 2 of us!) went with me. The other Misty is taller than me too! So, there are two tall Misty's in Newnan that are walking in the 3-Day. They had areas set up like how to put your tent up, how to pack your stuff, breast cancer awareness pamphlets and flyers, meet your coach, some vendors like New Balance and REI... They also had a few freebies for us like those neckbands that you soak in water that are supposed to keep you cool. Was it worth the drive into Atlanta? Probably not. But it was fun driving in with a new friend and eating at Sonic afterwards.

I am not one to nap, but it I had the chance right now...I would. For some reason (maybe its the Sonic) I am so tired. I think I just over ate. I was supposed to walk 14 miles today, but that isn't happening. Hopefully I can get 10 in tomorrow. I 'll need to get up early to do it though. I wish I had someone to walk with. It sure makes the time go by faster.

The children are out of the bath and need me. I have two little nekkid babies running around right now.

FAT

Over the past two days I have eaten an entire batch of No Bake Cookies. You know, the one with cocoa, butter, milk, and sugar. Then you add quick oats and peanut butter and drop them by the spoonful on wax paper. I ATE THE ENTIRE BATCH! My visitor is here (aka Aunt Flo) and I needed...I mean NEEDED...the entire batch of cookies. And it didn't stop there. I have eaten like a pig and have gained about 6 pounds back in the last couple of months. I must stop the insanity. Remember Susan Powter? That was her infomercial back in the early ninety's. "Stop the Insanity!"

And with that rant, I am going to bed. I have had a bad day and I am more than ready to close my eyes and start afresh tomorrow.

I really shouldn't but...

he is so cute! I told him to give me a thumbs up for going poo on the potty! The last 6 pictures on this roll (yes, this is FILM) were all toilet pictures separated by at least a month! I guess I forgot that I had already took poo poo pictures. I am such a dork. He is back to going poo 100% of the time in the potty. He could care less about going pee pee in the potty though. I think he was traumatized when I put underwear on him and he went all over himself. It scared him.

Shasta is still sick. I think this is a different sick though. He seems to have a sneezing/coughing type cold. I sure hope he makes a full recovery. I was up all night worried about him.

No word on the foreman job that Olaf interviewed for. Hopefully he will know sometime this week. If nothing else they said he did a great job on the interview.

We went to Costco yesterday. We didn't buy too much. Nothing fun anyway. Camille bought a new book with her pet sitting money. She bought this. It was $16.99 and she gladly forked over the money. She loves books! The only fun thing I got was a berry smoothie.

It is hotter than hades today. Well, not really I'm sure. Now, that isn't a pretty thought. I absolutely HATE the heat. I am so happy I am saved. We were listening to Chris Tomlin on the way to riding lessons this morning. If you haven't bought his CD, you really MUST. It just makes you sing along and worship the Lord. If you go to his website make sure your volume is turned up!

What to make for supper??? Hmmm... any ideas?

Mama by Josiah

Josiah took this picture of me today. I thought it was funny that a 2 year old could even find me in the view finder. I am going out to eat this evening with two of my friends. Tammy and Patty. It was Patty's birthday and we are taking her out to eat. We are going here. Tammy has a migrain today so I am not sure how much fun she'll have. I hope y'all have a great weekend.

Now Grace wants to type something:

fifiifof90t00t--hh=b--h=-ppp;;;ph[[[oohoooooppppppppooooookh,,,,kjyujtmrm,g,..n////nn.,,mmmmmmmmmmjjh

Now it's Josiah's turn:

'''///////////////////yyyyyyyyyerrrrrczcccccrrreeerrergdgdgdgddgdgddediritotggj]lk]l]lo]kkooo

Exciting News

Some great news about Karen. Check it out!

Feeling better

Shasta is making a slow recovery. He is still not 100% but he is fighting me when I give him his medicine. That is a good sign. I don't know what caused his sickness, but I have a feeling that he ate something he shouldn't have. Maybe something rotten or poisonous.

I went to my Southern Living at Home Consultant's house this evening, I won a great prize! I'd link you to a picture but it has been discontinued. It a cute serving platter called Song of the South and it has little pictures and southern sayings all over it. It also came with a little bowl for dip etc. I think it sold for $45 in the last catalog. Then I booked a show and got a beautiful trifle dish for free. And I won any item at half price. With that I bought a set of four bowls. They are so pretty.

Olaf interviews for a foreman position on Thursday. Can you please pray for him? He loves his job as a lead mechanic and won't be terribly disappointed if he doesn't get it. However, it's always nice to get chosen for a new job. The competition is steep, but no one looks better than Olaf in a suit!:)

Good night! It's late and I need to get going...

Sick cat

We awoke this fine Sunday morning to a very sick cat. I took Shasta to the Emergency Vet this morning. He has some sort of infection with a very high fever. He is very lethargic and just looks pitiful. They did blood work, a feline leukemia test, pushed fluids through an IV, and gave him an injection of antibiotics. They also sent antibiotics home for the next 10 days. $300 later and Olaf isn't too happy. They wanted to keep him overnight, but I have to take Cami to rising lessons tomorrow morning and just didn't want to have to drive to Union City (about 45 minutes away) to pick the cat up. I think he is more comfortable here anyway. If he doesn't get better in the next day I will take him to our regular vet.

After the cat incident this morning, we decided to make the drive to the Mall of Georgia. We never go to the mall because, well, it's the mall. But we also wanted to do something as a family that had air conditioning. It took 1.5 hours to get there and we stayed for about an hour. You can't go into stores with four small children and enjoy yourself if you know what I mean.

I walked about 8 miles or so on Saturday. It was fun meeting Tammy and Cindy. I do have some slight shin splints today though. I walked in my new shoes and only had a few hot spots on my feet. Before my walk next Saturday I plan on using moleskin on my hot spots and see if that makes a difference. And Tammy had this shirt on. So as soon as I got home, I went and bought one too! I am so original! I also bought this. And this too! And these. Fun, fun, fun! And check out our team website. It has been updated.

Tomorrow is Monday...ahhh the joy!

Sponsor Me Please!

People have stopped giving. I guess since I don't "need" anymore money people don't feel as compelled to give. That kind of sucks. If you haven't sponsored me yet, but were going to prior to me making the $2,100 mark, please consider sponsoring me. The money goes toward a great cause. And speaking of that, have you done your monthly self exam? If not, get to it! The article about me is not online. I guess it's not considered "real" news.

I am going walking this Saturday morning with my team captain, Tammy Redding. I am driving to her neighborhood in Villa Rica. I have never met her in person but have talked on the phone and e-mailed her a good bit. She seems incredibly sweet. She has U2 tickets that she is raffling off as a fundraiser for our team. Let me know if you're interested in that. The two shows that U2 is doing here sold out in mere hours. You had to do a lottery just to stand in line! She is selling 500 tickets max. $5 per ticket or 5 tickets for $20. That will basically sponsor one walker without doing any other fundraising. She also has Braves tickets at the dugout level she is raffling. Well, go here and click on "items for sale."

As for other news, we are poor. We really got off our budget and it shows. Tomorrow is payday and I am happy! I have to run to the grocery store before Bible Study tonight and get some milk and bread. I can write a hot check because the money will be there tomorrow morning. So essentially it isn't really "hot." Just kind of warm.

Camille is doing well in school thus far. It's still mostly review, but only a few tears have been shed. Not bad for a whole WEEK! LOL! She excels in math. No doubt about that. She loves to read fiction and is currently reding Anne of Avonlea. The girl devours books. I started teaching her some map reading skills this morning. We also took out the globe and talked about the continents and oceans. This year she is supposed to learn all the state capitals. I don't even know them all. I think I learned them at one point in my life but have since forgotten all of them. But hey, I can sing the Preamble!

I need a new bra. I only buy them here. They are so comfy. I found them while pregnant with Grace and cannot wear anything else now. I even sleep in them. They were easy to nurse in as well. Anyone have suggestions as what to wear for shorts (not undies) while I walk? I have been wearing my denim capris or denim shorts. I am very modest and shorts HAVE to come within 2 inches of my knee. They can't be fitted either. Like no spandex or anything that sticks to my skin. Suggestions??

Tomorrow is Friday! Hallelujah!

I'm famous

Yes, the newspaper article ran today. It will be online tomorrow and I will link it then. The photo of Karen's family and myself were in color. They used a "walking" photo of me and not the "posing" one. I'm kind of grateful for that. It's fun reading about yourself in the paper.

You Are a Frappacino

At your best, you are: fun loving, sweet, and modern At your worst, you are: childish and over indulgent You drink coffee when: you're craving something sweet Your caffeine addiction level: low

What Kind of Coffee Are You?

You Are Chocolate Chip Ice Cream

You are kind, popular, and generous. You tend to be successful at anything you try. A social butterfly, you are great at entertaining a crowd. You are most compatible with strawberry ice cream.

What Flavor Ice Cream Are You?

Newspaper Article

I am supposed to be in tomorrow's paper. They will have the story here, but there won't be any pics. I know I am going to be in the Close-Up Section. Anglea, the reporter, called me today to get the names of Karen's children. She is running this photo of them in the paper:

This photo was taken 9-11-04 in Hawaii. It was Karen and Darren's 12th anniversary. She had cancer here and didn't even know it. By that point she had already been to the GYN about the lump in her breast but was assured that it was "probably nothing to worry about."

Thank you, Tammy S., for your generous contribution to my 3-Day Walk. You are awesome! I tried to play Donkey Kong recently and totally sucked at it. I thought of you though. Remember what we saw at the Middle School while walking to Putt-n-Video? And what you said to the policeman afterwards??? LOL! We sure have some memories. I am blogging tonight just for you!

School starts for Caleb August 9th or 10th. He is so ready to go back to school. I am ready for it too. I started doing school with Camille and it is so much easier to do while he is not here. I work with him a little too, but his attention span is literally about 30 seconds. He cannot write his name. He can't even look down at the paper long enough to write his name.

Have a great night and I'll post tomorrow after I see the paper!

New Shoes

Well, we went to Phidippides today. I got these. Let me just say, driving in Atlanta has to be a part of God's punishment to the wicked in the after life. And going to mid-town, especially where this shoe store is located, is just like being in Sodom and Gomorrah if you know what I mean. We passed this bookstore which has a patio on the front where couples hang out and get goosey. Blech! I just kept praying that the children wouldn't see it. I didn't want to explain an alternative lifestyle to a nine year old. Anyway, my shoes feel good. I hope to walk a bit in them tomorrow. Today I walked about 6-7 miles. I wanted to walk 10 but I feel so guilty being gone from my family that long. I walked for two hours this morning.

I'm tuckered. Went to bed LATE last night and got up early. I need to get to bed by 10:30 tonight...

Have a great Sunday!

I'm hungry

Well, the newspaper (Angela Webster) came out this morning and interviewed me about the 3-Day. She took a few photos of me walking down the road and another posed photo of me looking over my right shoulder. I hope I don't look like a complete dork when they print it! She is very sweet and I'm sure the article will be well written. She is going to run a photo of Karen and her family as well and give out Karen's website in the article.

Tomorrow I am going to walk my first 10 mile walk. I'll be gone for over three hours, so I need to get moving early. I also need to buy another pair of shoes soon. I am thinking of going here to get a proper fit. My friend, Sharalyn, let me borrow a book all about running and the author is the guy that opened these stores. I still want to be a jogger, but haven't attained it yet. I have never been a good runner. Even in high school I sucked at running. Now, 30 pounds overweight, I really suck at it!

As for my title, I am hungry. I am not sure what we are having for dinner, but I can assure you I am not cooking it. I am kind of in the mood for fried fish from Captain D's or Long John Silver. If I were in Oregon I'd go to Skipper's. We don't have any Skipper's out here. I'd also go to Taco Time. Oh, I LOVE their crisp burritos with mexi-fries. Now I'm really hungry.

Oh, I need to update about my ENT appointment. Dr. H put me on long term antibiotics for a full month. He also gave a prescription for Diflucan so the yeast won't get the better of me. My throat is not infected, however, it is still swollen. If this doesn't work, then it's time for a tonsilectomy. Sucketh.

I just rubbed my eye forgetting that I had make-up on. Does anyone else do that?

Have a great weekend everyone!

Cheri is no longer 987 weeks pregnant!

Anna~Elizabeth Lillian
Born July 7th, 2005 @ 10:28am (Central time)
Weight: 8lbs. & 3.6oz.
Length: 19.5 inches long! CONGRATULATIONS Brorsen Family!

Deacon Groomed

Thanks to Becky, I have a better picture of Deacon!

Mostly stained

He can't stain the front of the boards yet because it's too wet or something like that!

Today is my follow-up doctor appointment with the ENT. My throat is starting to hurt again, so we'll see what he says. I also take Deacon to get shaved today. He is a moppy mess again and Olaf just doesn't have the time to shave him. It literally takes him hours to shave that dog! Do you remember the before and after pics of him the last time we shaved him? Too funny!

Thanks to the antibiotics I was taking I have a wonderful yeast infection. I am going to ask Dr. H if he can write a Rx for Diflucan. It's hard on the liver but does wonders for yeast! Sorry if that was TMI!

Karen had her port installed yesterday for the Herceptin and any other IV infusion that she may need. Keep praying for her.

My dentist, Dominick D'Auria of Aberdeen Dental, gave me $150 toward my walk! How incredibly nice was that? I did ask him to sponsor me but I expected the $25 just-to-be-nice donation. His sister was diagnosed with breast cancer at the age of 37 or 38 so it hit close to home for him. I am $9 away from $3,000. Anyone want to make it even?:) Speaking of the walk, I go to my FOCUS meeting tomorrow. It is required event that I must attend prior to the walk. I think they mostly talk about fundraising, but I'm excited to go anyway. It is in Peachtree City and I am happy that it is so close. All the other meetings are in Atlanta.

Have you ever had a pimple (or zit or bump or whatever you want to call them) under your eyebrow? Man, I have one that hurts! Again...TMI! Good thing I have bushy eyebrows! Ha ha on you Cheri.

Speaking of Cheri, she is officially 987 weeks pregnant today!

Off to pop a zit! LOL!

Just a little PS

I forgot to tell you that the local newspaper is coming out on Friday to interview me about my 3-Day Walk. Angela Webster, the reporter, is a friend of the Ishwerwoods. I have met her several times and sat with her at tea at Ms. Mike's (see picture below) 60th birthday party a few years ago. I e-mailed her and let her know about the walk and she is coming Friday morning to interview me and take a picture for the paper. Autographs anyone?? Bwah ha ha ha ha!

Thought I'd say it before it actually comes! Have a great 4th of July with your friends and family. Eat a lot of hamburgers and hot dogs. Go to the parade. Watch the fireworks. Be safe! Happy Birthday America! And with that I leave you the Schoolhouse Rock version of the Preamble of the United States Constitution. If you want to listen to it for old times sake please click here.

Hey, do you know about the U.S.A.?
Do you know about the government?
Can you tell me about the Constitution?
Hey, learn about the U.S.A.

In 1787 I'm told
Our founding fathers did agree
To write a list of principles
For keepin' people free.

The U.S.A. was just startin' out.
A whole brand-new country.
And so our people spelled it out
The things that we should be.

And they put those principles down on
paper and called it the Constitution, and
it's been helping us run our country ever
since then. The first part of the
]Constitution is called the preamble and tells
what those founding fathers set out to do.

We the people
In order to form a more perfect union,
Establish justice, insure domestic tranquility,
Provide for the common defense,
Promote the general welfare and
Secure the blessings of liberty
To ourselves and our posterity
Do ordain and establish this Constitution
for the United States of America.

In 1787 I'm told
Our founding fathers all sat down
And wrote a list of principles
That's known the world around.

The U.S.A. was just starting out
A whole brand-new country.
And so our people spelled it out
They wanted a land of liberty.
And the preamble goes like this:

We the people
In order to form a more perfect union,
Establish justice, insure domestic tranquility,
Provide for the common defense,
Promote the general welfare and
Secure the blessings of liberty
To ourselves and our posterity,
Do ordain and establish this Constitution
for the United States of America.

For the United States of America...

I walked 6 miles this morning. My hands swelled up like balloons. I asked for advice on the 3-Day boards and everyone said to bring a stress ball or some silly putty to play with while I walk. I can't wait to see what they look like after 20 miles! Yippee! (I'm totally being facetious) I went to Target today and bought a twin air matress and a battery powered pump. I know I just bought the pad, but I was thinking that a pad will not be enough cushion on nights two and three! My body is probably going to be hurting and I want to sleep on a matress. That is...IF I camp! Olaf is telling me I MUST camp. "It's a part of the experience, Misty!" I just think he doesn't want to come pick me up!:)

Tomorrow is Callaway Gardens and the beach. I am going to walk another six miles on the beautiful trails, while Olaf has the children at the beach area. He really is a good husband. I'm not sure he will watch them properly, but if they are alive and unhurt when I get back then I'll be happy. Men just don't have those eyes in the back of their heads like women do. I can watch all four children at once and keep on top of their every move. Olaf has to take care of one at a time.

Need to get the children in bed.

Bible Study

Last night the ladies from my Bible Study met at Chili's for dinner. This is a picture I took with my phone! It is Ms. Mike and Krista. Ms. Mike is Karen's mom and Krista is Karen's sister.



I love them both!

Nothing spectacular to write about. Well, there is really nothing spectacular in my blog. I am PMS'ing and waiting for my period to arrive.

I ordered a fanny pack for my three day walk. I got it cheaper than the price listed though. I paid $14.99 WITH shipping. I wanted to start training with it to see if it is going to hurt my back or bother me in some other way. I should also start wearing the lanyard they sent me. I hate things around my neck so I will more than likely clip it somewhere versus wearing it.

Olaf is outside mowing the backyard. This is the first time this season that he has mowed. I have done it three times so far. I like to mow but I don't like emptying that heavy bag when it fills up with clippings. That is the hardest part for me.

I walked a little today. I'd like to go out this evening and walk another 3 miles for a total of 5.5 for the day. I NEED to walk further at one time, but the only day that is possible is on the weekend. I am going to try 6 miles one day this weekend. I volunteered to be a Training Walk Leader for the 3 Day. Basically I scout out a route and put the walk on the website. That's all there is to it. Of course, I have to show up and walk as well.

Now that I have bored y'all stiff...have a great night!

This, that, and the other

My baby boy is now infatuated with Jay Jay the Jet Plane. He still loves Thomas too, but we have two Jay Jay videos that we play over and over. Why oh why do toddlers like to watch the same show again and again? They never get tired of it.

Darren e-mailed me an update on Karen. THey are putting out fire after fire it seems.

I must walk today. Yesterday I didn't do anything. I suppose I could do the FIRM today and call it a cross training day.

My throat still is not 100%. I'm not sure what is going on, but it is more than just an infection. I kind of have a feeling that a tonsillectomy will be coming. And I am not looking forward to that!

I got my new Stampin' Up! catalog today. That is always fun. I need to place a $400 order before the end of July or I won't be active anymore. Hopefully a few people will place some big orders with the new catalog. Also the Horizon of Hope Basket is available in July. That is the Longaberger Breast Cancer Basket. Longaberger donates $2 for each basket sold and this year I am giving 100% of my profit from the sale of that basket to sponsor Dana in her 3-Day Walk.

Here is a picture of Josiah. It's his new thing. He cups his hand behind his ear and says, "Mama, I hear something!" Dig the eybrow!

I'm busy

I'm busy, busy, dreadfully busy
You've no idea what I have to do.
Busy, busy, shockingly busy
Much, much too busy for you. -Veggie Tales in case you think I'm just being rude.

This day is flying by and I feel like I'm just hanging on for the ride. I don't like days like today. I have done laundry, swept and mopped the kitchen floor, prepared breakfast and lunch for four children. It doesn't seem like much but I still feel like I can't quite keep up. I'm chasing the bus and I'm really close to it, just not close enough to jump on.

I hope to get out and walk this evening. It's HOT today and very muggy. There is so much to think about for this 3-Day Walk. Much more than I imagined when I signed up:) I have been reading the message boards of those that just walked it in Kansas City. It's scares me.

I don't have any new news on Karen. Of course, you'll be the first to know if I do.

Have a great Monday...if that is even possible.

It's almost done

It just needs to be stained!

Saturday in the Park

You'd think it was the Fourth of July. (Which it almost is!) It is now legal to have fireworks in GA! Can you believe it? My children will have a blast with the sparklers this year. That's all we're buying.

Olaf and his friend Tim worked on our front entrance today. Our foundation sunk several inches and we had to have Olshan come and literally jack up the entire garage. In order to do that properly they had to jackhammer out a portion of our front steps that lead into our home. Those steps had sunk about 18 inches anyway due to the foundation sinking. Needless to say, if we used the front door at all, that last step into the house was a dooser! Here is a picture of the before:

I don't have an after picture to post yet.

Karen has blood clots in her legs now. They didn't change her chemo though. Her little girl turns four today.

I haven't had a donation on my 3-Day website for a few days now. I guess since I reached my minimum people don't feel as obligated to give. I'd love to raise $5,000 before its all said and done.

I found a new wine I really like. ::GASP!:: Yes, I said wine! It's Sutter Home Moscato. It's a white wine that is very sweet. For all you wine drinkers out there, please tell me your favorite wine in the comment section. I don't know a lot about wine, but I'd like to learn. For all you grape juice drinkers, you can just say hi!

Tomorrow we plan on going to Callaway Gardens. Olaf is going to go to the beach with the children and I am going to go for a long training walk. I would like to do 6 miles. That is two hours of walking. Or there abouts....

We watched "50 First Dates" last night. Way too many references to sex and body parts. I cannot recommend it. Whatever happened to lovely, clean movies like "Anne of Green Gables?" They are few and far between now-a-days. It was PG-13. I cannot believe that 13 year old children understand the sexual references in those movies. That is horrible! In not of, in not of, in not of...

Olaf is still outside trying to finish that entrance. It's 7:46 pm. He is losing sunlight.

It's late

but I have to update about the whole dentist thing. I go in and pay my balance of $250 thinking "praise be to God! This is my last dental appointment." So. wrong. My crown doesn't fit. So after drilling and smashing and fitting and drilling some more and smashing some more...I need to come back at the end of July. And you know what's even worse? My THROAT hurts. I think I am allergic to something at the dentist office. Maybe the junk they use for impressions, maybe the nasty suction tube they jam down my throat, maybe the latex??? Because if you remember, my first throat infection was one week after my last dental appointment. Coincidental? I think not.

I updated Karen's page with a photo of her children. SO precious. Then I updated my fundraising page with a photo of Karen and her family. She went to the oncologist today because she is not doing well with the Xeloda that she is taking. She has some tremors and sores in her mouth. She is going in very early tomorrow for a pet scan, a appointment with the GI doctor, and to have some fluid drained out of her abdomen. I don't think anything will require a hospital stay. Her oncologist may change her chemo but they don't know yet. Ms. Mike (Karen's Mom) was at Bible Study tonight and seemed OK. I cannot imagine what she is going through. What is worse than seeing your youngest child die of cancer? Her faith is amazing though. She knows the God in whom she serves. She gave me a check for the 3-Day walk tonight. That put me over my minimum of $2,100. I can officially walk the 3-Day! But please, don't let the fact that I raised my minimum keep you from giving. Every dollar is very much appreciated. Speaking of walking...

I went out in the heat of the day today to do a short walk. I don't know what the weather is going to be like for the walk and I thought I better get used to walking in the heat. Well, I did two miles in the afternoon sun and I felt pretty yucky when I came in. The heat and I just don't get along. I need to get my body used to that though. It is still going to be fairly hot when I walk. I also found another woman who lives locally that is doing the 3-Day. We are going to meet July 9th to walk together. Maybe we'll do 6-10 miles.

OK, it's 11:25 pm. Olaf is already in bed, so I need to get my rear going.

Screaming Eagle or was it Beagle??

You have not e-mailed me like you said you would. If you have forgotten my e-mail address "tag" me with yours!

BFF,
Eemo
Hi-Lo-Eenie-Meenie-Kie-Kie-Oom-Cha-Cha-E-Wah-Wah

And the verdict is...

"Mrs. Jorek, I am not sure what is wrong with your throat. Let's treat it as an unexplained bacterial infection and see what happens." So, a shot of steroids, a Rx for Augmentin, and a mouthwash called Bio-something or other and I was on my way. I am tired, weak, and just plain old not feeling good. I hope the antibiotics kick in soon because I feel yucky.

Did y'all notice that my fundraising page JUMPED...like SKYROCKETED...over night. One very generous person sponsored me for $1,000. My mouth hung open when I saw my page. WOW! The generosity of some people floors me. I will be at goal in no time. Hopefully people will not stop giving just because I made my goal, but that may be the case. We'll see...

I still haven't went grocery shopping. I was down to one (yes ONE) diaper. I stopped by Target on the way home from the doctor and got some. I also got one of these. I'm not even sure what it is, but I guess I'll find out!:) That is for "just in case I decide to camp" which is highly unlikely!

There is an update at Karen's page too.

Humbled

I am completely humbled by the people that are making donations to my 3-Day Walk. Thank you so very much. I do not know some of these generous people, but they are sponsoring me to honor Karen. What a huge blessing. Then I got a phone call today from my best friend when I was a kid who follows my blog religiously!:) She is going to make a $100 donation in honor of Karen and she has NO IDEA who Karen is! Thank you, thank you, thank you. You all have blessed and humbled me beyond words. May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with you all! Amen!

I stopped by to see Karen today. It is the first time I have seen her since Mother's Day at church. She looks about 9 months pregnant from the swelling in her abdomen. She is getting jaundiced and her eyes looked yellow. She has a UTI due to the cath she had while in the hospital so she is on antibiotics now. She started her chemo pills this morning and has to watch for the side effects that may be associated with that. Her children were precious though and the boys gave me a hug when I left. Hannah (the 8 y.o. girl) needs to talk about the cancer for her to deal with it. She asked me as soon as I came in the door, "Do you know my mom has cancer?" JD (the 10 yo boy) said, "Hannah, all of mom's friends know she has cancer!"

I had my annual pap smear today. Lovely. I have an appointment with the ENT tomorrow afternoon for which I am grateful. Olaf was able to get an appointment for me with Dr. H when I could not. Something about a man...hmmm...wonder if that's Biblical?:) Honestly, when I called the receptionist said the earliest I could get in was July. When Olaf called for me they said they would work me in tomorrow. Now, why is that??

I didn't walk at all today. I need to get this fat butt moving. I already have a minor shin splint from the 2 days I did walk. So. Very. Sad. I need to work up to an 18 mile walk. I am going to be gone ALL DAY LONG when that happens.

I'm sure I have mentioned my 20 year high school reunion is this August. I'm still debating about whether to go or not. If you go Tammy, then I may. Lawd, people are going to look at me and whisper about how fat I am! I can see the clique of girls doing it right now. And I bet they are still in the same clique at the reunion. I think about my classmates that have already died. Jeff Perry died of cancer either our senior year or right after, Barbara Allen had leukemia or something, Diane Davidson lost her life to anorexia, and Greg Suiter (my old boyfriend) died under mysterious circumstances. His family won't disclose the cause of death so I am guessing suicide or drug overdose. Here I am, 37 years old with a wonderful husband, four healthy children, a beautiful home, a reliable van, bills paid, washing machine whirring, no cancer in my body...and still I refuse to see the big picture a lot of times. It's easy to get caught up in the here and now, isn't it? So, I'll end this by saying go count your blessings! You have many!

Father's Day

It's Father's Day today. We went to Callaway Gardens. The beach was open but we decided not to do the swim thing this time. The children were disappointed, but not terribly so. It was kind of cool and overcast which is great weather for Callaway. I desperately need to go grocery shopping, but that is going to have to wait. Unless I go after the children go to bed. Or maybe I can take all the children with me tomorrow. Yeah, right!

Tomorrow I have my annual GYN appointment. That is always fun!:) I went to the physician assistant on Friday about my throat. Of course he said he cannot see that far down my throat and told me to go to an ENT. DUH! I knew that but the office wouldn't give me a referral unless they saw me first. I really do not like managed healthcare. It sucks so bad. I am really nervous about my throat. I guess with Karen and all the stuff that she is going through, my mind steers toward the worse case scenario. Of course, Olaf thinks I am a lunatic and doesn't mind making me feel like an absolute idiot about it either. That helps.

On Thursday I go in for my crown appointment. The last one, praise God. I am sick of the dentist. I am going to ask if they will sponsor me on my 3-day walk. I will ask Dr. Heindel when I see him too. And my pharmacist. Chantell already sponsored me for $75.00. That was so generous of her. I really want to get my $2,100 out of the way soon. I don't want to be near the end and not have enough money to walk. That would suck. Camille sponsored me for $10. Isn't that sweet? She gave me money that she made pet sitting. What a precious gesture on her part.

Karen is back home from the hospital but Krista told me today that she doesn't look so good. She is supposed to start taking her chemo pills tomorrow, but noone is sure if she'll be able to or not. It seems she is so weak that she cannot eat much. She seems to be in a vicious cycle. She cannot eat, so she gets weak, which makes her not be able to eat etc. Please pray for her. And then pray about if you can donate to my walk in honor of Karen. Every donation is tax deductible.

Time to get the children in bed.

I did it!

I registered for the walk! Please see the link in the sidebar and make a donation!

Thank You So Much!

My Gracie Girl

Make-Up by Grace.

It's back

Well, after the antibiotics have worn off, my throat infection is back. Just my right tonsil. I will call the doctor tomorrow and try to get an appointment. I am not sure why it won't go away. I would have thought that Z-Pak would have taken care of it. So much for prescribing my own meds.

Karen was admitted to the hospital today. She was vomiting blood and also had blood in her stool. They did some procedure today where they banded her esophogus or some such thing. They think the bleeding is coming from there somehow. I'll update on Karen's blog when Darren e-mails me. Krista (Karen's sister) said they thought she would be in the hospital until Friday at least.

Tomorrow I am going up for an orientation for the 3 Day Walk. I will probably register then. It's from 6:30-8:00 pm by the airport in Atlanta. The registration fee is $90 and that doesn't count toward my $2,100 that I have to raise. I am hoping that someone else who lives down here has also registered for the walk. I'd like to get to know someone prior to the event or it will be a lonesome three days. I read tonight that we have to bring our own sleeping bag and air mattress/pad. What I really want to know is can I go home and sleep? Honestly! I cannot sleep in a sleeping bag! I HATE camping with every ounce of being that is within me. I absolutely despise it. Sharing a tent with someone I don't know is just gross to me. I am hoping that Olaf can pick me up at tent city and drop me off the next morning. Or I can walk to a nearby hotel!:) That would even be better. I don't like to share hotel rooms either. I have been to conferences before and I will only share a hotel with one other person and that is because I have to. It's too darn expensive to stay alone. Some of these women at the conference would stay 4-6 to ONE room. Oh, that is SO not me. I like having "my" space. Am I spoiled or what??

Camille started watching "Little Anne" tonight. Little Anne is a dog that lives down the street. She looks just like our dog, Ella. The owners are in Daytona Beach for a few days. They have an above ground pool in their backyard and said we could use it if we wanted to. So our entire family went and got in the pool this evening for an hour or so. It was fun. The children enjoyed it a lot. None of my children can swim so we all just jumped around a little. Of course we had to hold Josiah and Grace the entire time because it was too deep for them to stand. Caleb had a blast sticking his head under the water though. I was praying the entire time, please Lord don't let him have a seizure in this pool!

I am excited about going to Disney next year.

I hope I am not pregnant because I really want to ride the rides this time! That sounds SO selfish. You know I'll be thrilled if I am pregnant, but the last time we were there I was 35 weeks pregnant and very swollen. It was not fun walking around like that.

Chantell's Baptism

My friend, Chantell, got baptised tonight!

This is her before:


And this is her after:


Praise be to God!

Sunday, Sunday

It's Sunday already. ::heavy sigh:: Friday I took Josiah to the pediatrician because his heart just beats out of his chest and it's really fast. They hooked him up to the pulse oximeter for a few minutes to get some readings. His heartrate started out at 119 but went up to about 135. His O2 sat went from 100% down to 97%. She thought it would be a good idea to get an EKG so she sent me over to the clinic at 4:00 pm on Friday. Needless to say, noone was there! The only reason the nurse was there to do the EKG was my pediatrician called beforehand. They hooked my little guy up to 10 leads that are made for adults. It took up his entire chest. They handed me the readout and I made my way back to the pediatrician's office to drop it off. She did a preliminary read and said it looked "pretty good" but she is going to give it to the pediatric cardiologist to look at. Just pray that everything is OK with my little man.

We went to Kohl's today to get Josiah some new sneakers. My children only have one pair of shoes, and it's sneakers. However, one of Josiah's got lost. Don't ask me how...I really do not know. In the meantime he was wearing Grace's shoes. They weren't too girly, but you could tell they weren't "boy" shoes. So we bought him a new pair of sneakers and a pair of sandals too. I also bought him two Thomas T-Shirts. He saw them and wanted to put them on then and there! Oh, speaking of Thomas, yesterday I bought Josiah some Thomas underwear at Target. He wanted to put them on immediately, so I told him that he couldn't pee pee in them. It was so funny when he finally did go pee all over the place. It scared him to death! He jumped up and said, "Uh Oh! Jo-shi-sha is wet!" Then he proceeded to tell me he wanted a diaper. He is so cute.

Karen's husband sent me an update this morning. Take a peek and say a prayer.

There is an orientation for the Atlanta 3 Day Walk this Wednesday up by the airport. I think I may go! If I register for this walk I will need major help in attaining my goal of $2,100 in order to participate.

I need to run. Olaf is jealous.

Ahhh, silence!

Olaf took the children to Bruster's so I am here alone. Somtimes it's so nice to not to hear the constant chaos that echos behind me. Don't get me wrong. I am SO thankful for my children and the chaos that ensues, but sometimes it's nice to bask in silence too.

Olaf's aunt called today from Germany. She wants to come out in August and stay TWO WEEKS! ARRRGGHH! Two weeks!?! I am quite certain that she will not want to stay that long once she gets here. She has never been married and has no children. I think the children will drive her crazy. I have never met her either. She speaks English OK but she doesn't like to. Olaf speaks German with her on the phone. He cannot take any time off while she is here, so I sure hope she decides to speak English! She is also a BIG TIME smoker! Yuck! We have already told her that she cannot smoke in the house. I cannot stand the smell of cigarette smoke and just having her in the house with that awful smell lingering on her is going to kill me. Oh Lord, give me the grace to show her YOUR hospitality. I would love her to see YOU in our home! (She is not a Christian and thinks we are in a cult.)

Karen has some tests and starts chemo tomorrow. Please keep her in you prayers.

Yesterday I called Cheri to wish her a Happy Birthday! Oh, she is so cute! She sounds like such a Southern Belle! She made fun of me for saying "pardon." She said I should say, "What'd you sayeee?" LOL! I love you Cheri!

Maybe I will go read a chapter of Anne of Green Gables. Camille finished it and gave it to me to read. It's a lovely book!

This narcissist knew it!

Your IQ Is 135

Your Logical Intelligence is Exceptional Your Verbal Intelligence is Genius Your Mathematical Intelligence is Genius Your General Knowledge is Genius

A Quick and Dirty IQ Test

Our Cats

Camille took these pics today of our kitties. We named them Aravis and Shasta from C.S. Lewis' book "A Horse and His Boy" from the Chronicles of Narnia.

This is Aravis:


And this is Shasta:


They are brother and sister and just celebrated their first birthday the same day as Grace.

I am SO full!

Tonight for dinner I made country fried steak, country gravy, mashed potatoes, corn and green beans. Then I proceeded to eat way too much. So much that I feel nauseous. Blech. The rest of the family is eating ice cream for dessert, but I can't do that right now.

Olaf got the results of his blood work from the cardiologist today. His cholesterol and triglycerides have went down since he lost 20 pounds. They still aren't perfect, but better. His total cholesterol was 204. That is down from 217. If he starts regular exercise I think it will help even more. Then you have me, FRYING steak tonight. So healthy!

We did go see Madagascar. It was very boring for me, but Camille liked it. Grace did good in the theater. I thought she may cry because it was too loud. I would say save your money and rent it when it comes out. It's not worth the price of admission.

Gracie took this picture of me!


And Becky made me this!

Feeling better

My tonsil is doing better, however I think it is forming a crevice. The spot that was black is now forming a hole in my tonsil! GRODY! It isn't sore anymore and my lymph node seems to be less swollen. I guess it really was bacterial and the antibiotics are helping. (In case you didn't know, I put myself on antibiotics...not the doctor)

Olaf finished the concrete work for the new landing and steps that he is building. He was outside for about 9 hours and got a 3'X 3" section done. He wrote into the wet concrete Deut 6:4-9. He also wrote Olaf *hearts* Misty. How sweet!

I think I will take Camille to see Madagascar tomorrow. Grace wants to go too but she has never been to the theater. I hope it isn't too scary for her. My children have never liked loud noises. Now, they themselves are VERY loud. But vacuums and blow dryers have scared every single one of my children.

It looks like Karen is going to have a chemo that will not make her hair fall out. She has a type of cancer that responds well to a less invasive chemo than the "Red Devil." She starts next Thursday, so pray for her and her family. She didn't cut off her hair in hopes that she can keep it!

I got Josiah's hair cut yesterday. He looks cute. I tried to take his picture but you couldn't really see his hair cut.

Off to eat some popcorn and drink a Diet Pepsi! Have a great weekend...

Olaf had his stress test done today. The doctor called and said his heart is 100% healthy. Praise the Lord! He took Caleb to get his blood drawn today. He needed his seizure med level checked since they increased his dose. Caleb hasn't had a seizure for 1.5 years now. Praise the Lord again! In not so good news, our pediatrician is leaving. Her husband has accepted a new position out of state and they are moving. She is such an awesome doctor and I hate the thought of having to see someone else. Bummer...

Karen is seeing a second oncologist today. She saw one on Tuesday and this is her second opinion. I think she is leaning toward chemo as she has an appointment to get all of her cut off. Karen has LONG hair. Probably down to her bottom. She always wears it in a long braid down her back. I told her that if she wanted someone to shave their head with her, I'd do it! And I totally mean it. I think I'd look hot bald!:)

Today I had the most wonderful sandwich from here. I had the Coney Island Gyro and it was so fattening and SO yummy!

My right tonsil and lymph node are really infected. I started antibiotics yesterday, so hopefully that will alleviate the infection. I'm not sure why it is only my right tonsil but it may have something to do with my dental work. Maybe a piece of something (tooth, chemical crap etc) got lodged on my tonsil and infected it??? Who knows? Now I'll get a yeast infection from the antibiotics. Fun!

Have a great weekend everyone! It has been raining here all week and I think more rain is expected over the weekend. Yuck!

Memorial Day

Happy Memorial Day--if there is such a thing when you think about the men and women that died for our country. Thank the Lord for their willingness to serve the United States of America.

This weekend has seemed long. That is rare in our home. Usually the weekends fly by. It will be a short week for Olaf as he is taking Friday off for his stress tests. Hopefully all will go well with that.

We have kind of been on a Ben & Jerry's kick lately. Blame it all on Cheri. I wouldn't normally buy Ben & Jerry's because they are SUCH commie libs that I HATE to support them. However, when she mentioned a flavor called Oatmeal Cookie Chunk, I relented. Oh my goodness! Is it heavenly. Since then we have tried, Everything but the..., Pistachio, Pistachio (YUM!), The Godfather, and Chunky Monkey. It's on sale at Kroger this week for $2.50. Do you know that they have about 19 grams of fat for 1/2 cup??? What the???? Who eats only 1/2 cup of that stuff? The entire container is 2 cups, so if you eat the whole thing (like me) then you get 56 grams of fat ALL AT ONCE! That is about twice as much as a Big Mac. Lawdy he'p me!

I tried to do one of my FIRM DVD's today. It started skipping toward the end. I called their customer service (Goodtimes) and told them about it and they are sending another out to me. That made me happy. It is a really tough cardio workout and I rarely do it. They only use three pound weights in it and focus ALL on cardio. I am sucking wind at the end.

I am totally PMS'ing this week. My hormones are crazy and I have about one nerve left in my entire body. I am trying to keep my flesh under control but it is even harder than normal when the hormones rage. My poor poor family:) Pray for them.

Have I ever said how dern cute my children are? They are all so cute! Grace cracks me up. I asked her recently what she wanted to be when she grew up and she said to me, "I want to be a pirate. ARRRGGHH!" Oh, it made me laugh. Out of all my children, only Grace would say that.

The children are SUPER excited about next MAY and Disney! The year is going to drag by for them. It will fly by for Olaf and I though.

Need to run. Josiah is hyperventilating. Olaf spanked him and he won't calm down.

Woo Hoo!

Wanna see where we are staying next May when we go to Disney? Go ahead and look! All this for $198 FOR THE ENTIRE WEEK! Praise the Lord!

Sad day for me

My friend Karen has an agressive form of cancer. It started in her breast and has spread to her liver. Please pray as they decide whether or not to do chemo. I pray constantly for her and her family. I think I will register for The 3 Day Walk in honor of Karen. In honor of a lot of women actually. In honor of Dana. In memory of my mother-in-law. For a hopeful future for my girls.

Time to get back on the wagon

After a full month of eating any and everything, I am getting back on the bandwagon. I only gained about 2 pounds, but I continued to do the FIRM at least three days a week. I am committed to FIRMing 6 days a week and eating better. Grace's birthday cake is almost gone, so that will help tremendously! I was working out today when I heard a loud "thump" from my room. Josiah was on my bed watching Dora and obviously he rolled (or jumped) off. Our bed is fairly high off the ground too. As I raced in there he was laying on the floor unable to breathe. I think he got the wind knocked out of him. He calmed down relatively fast though and I don't see any bruises yet!:)

My friend, Karen, is still in the hospital. They are trying to find out what is going on. The family won't let me post any speculations that have been made by the doctors. They want a firm diagnosis before they announce it to anyone. I find that completely ludicrous, but I am not in their shoes. She has been up at Emory since Saturday and they still have not done a full body MRI. They were supposed to do that on MONDAY! In the meantime, her five children are being watched by a young woman from their church. The children are confused and miss their parents. Please pray for this family. I cannot imagine what they must be going through right now. The fact is the news will NOT be good about Karen unless the Lord heals her. Last night I had a dream (I fell asleep praying for Karen) that I had stomach cancer and was terminal. It was an awful dream. Then I awoke to remember Dana's post awhile back. We are ALL terminal, aren't we? I am not guaranteed today. Neither are you. Live like it!

FYI-The homeschool post below was not authored by me. I just thought it was funny.

I am trying to play catch up with the Believing God Study. I am still in week 5, but I love it! Love it! I highly recommend every woman reading this blog to do it! You watch videos online and print out your homework.

I need to shower. I stink. In my 100 Things About Me, it says I don't sweat. Well, I sweat now. Since I have lost weight and have been FIRMing, I sweat a lot! And I stink too. I'm not sure what happened, but my metabolism shifted or something...

Tomorrow is my crown build-up appointment with the dentist. Almost 2 hours in the dentist chair. FUN!

It's a gorgeous day today. My little man would rather watch Dora. The other three are all outside playing. I love that. Have a great day!

Public School is better than homeschool

Why Public Schooling Is Better Than Homeschooling

10. Most parents were educated in the underfunded public school
system, and so are not smart enough to homeschool their own children.

9. Children who receive one-on-one homeschooling will learn more than
others, giving them an unfair advantage in the marketplace. This is
undemocratic.

8. How can children learn to defend themselves unless they have to
fight off bullies on a daily basis?

7. Ridicule from other children is important to the socialization process.

6. Children in public schools can get more practice "Just Saying No"
to drugs, cigarettes and alcohol.

5. Fluorescent lighting may have significant health benefits.

4. Publicly asking permission to go to the bathroom teaches young
people their place in society.

3. The fashion industry depends upon the peer pressure that only
public schools can generate.

2. Public schools foster cultural literacy, passing on important
traditions like the singing of "Jingle Bells, Batman smells, Robin
laid an egg..."

1. Homeschooled children may not learn important office career
skills, like how to sit still for six hours straight.

Grace is four!

Today is my baby girl's birthday! Here are a few pictures! It's is hard to believe that four years ago she was born right here at home. In my bed. Caught by her Papa. Happy Birthday Baby Girl!

May 20th, 1985

Twenty years ago today, I graduated from high school. WOW! All I can say is I'm old. I was young for graduating though. I was only 17 and didn't turn 18 until November. I started college at age 17 and remember reading signs everywhere saying you couldn't be on campus unless you were eighteen without a parent. This August is my high school reunion. I am not sure if we will go. Actually, I'm 90% sure we won't go. Flying five hours to Oregon, and then driving another two to get to my hometown with four children is not an easy task. Not to mention the time change is awful on little ones and mentally challenged boys! My children go to bed at 8:00 pm. That is 5:00 pm in Oregon. Our dinner time is 5:00 pm. That is 2:00 pm in Oregon. Caleb gets up at 5:30 am. That is 2:30 am in Oregon. Get my drift?

I am getting a cold. Josiah is too. He woke up again very early and is being a complete grump. I think this may be the day we put him in Caleb's room. It is time.

Olaf's cardiologist appointment is this afternoon. It is just a consultation. There will not be any testing. Please pray for him. My friend, Karen, also gets the results from her liver biopsy today. Both of those appointments happen this afternoon (around 3 and 4 pm est) so pray, pray, pray!

Caleb is in school for just a half day today. I have tried to explain all week that this is the last week for school and for the bus. I don't think he understands. School starts in early August here in Georgia, so by the end of July he will probably be adjusting to the "no school" routine. Just in time for school to start again. His last baseball game is tomorrow. He will play again when school starts up. I think fall ball starts in late August or September. At least he has CORRAL until the end of June or July.

I added a weather icon in my sidebar. That is a cool website. You can actually add a three day forecast and other weather stuff too. Check it out.

My friend, Dana, is doing the three day breast cancer walk. I am trying to raise money to sponsor her. If you would like to make a purchase of Longaberger, let me know and ALL profit will go to sponsor Dana in her walk!

Everyone is awake and I need to make brek-est as my Gracie girl calls it.

Summer is officially here!

We went to Caleb's school this morning to see him get his "Certificate of Completion" for the school year. Josiah got up really early today so we were able to make it with no problem. Josiah has been up since 6:45 am and hasn't napped yet. I am hoping he doesn't nap so he will go to bed at a normal time!

My friend, Stephanie, just announced she is pregnant! YIPPEE! I love celebrating with pregnant women! What a blessing.

Tonight is Bible Study. Ella gets a shot today. Tomorrow is Caleb's last day of school. Summer is officially here!

One more thing...

Diet Pepsi with Lime is da Bomb!

By the way

I rented A&E's version of Pride and Prejudice. Loved it! Now I really want to read the book.

Ella Smella

Cami and Grace

This is before Camille's Choir performance on Monday.

Jo-Shi-Sha and Mama

Olaf Jorek is my hero

My sweet husband surprised me and took yesterday off from work. We went out to lunch at Red Lobster. We cannot go out to eat with Caleb, so if we want to eat in a restaurant we need to do it while he is in school. Caleb's last day of school is this Friday, so Olaf took the day off for one last "hurrah." The weather was gorgeous. When we got home from lunch (and a little shopping) Olaf laid in the hammock while I read my new Homeschool Digest. (Cheri, I subbed you to this and their other publication, An Encouraging Word. It will start with the next issue) It was a lazy and relaxing day.

My friend, Karen, had her liver biopsy yesterday. She is supposed to get the results this Friday. Please keep her and her family in your prayers. She has 5 small children to take care of and she is in a lot of pain. I am praying for a complete healing.

My dog, Ella, isn't doing very well. She won't come up the two stairs into our house after I take her out to go potty. Picking up a 53 pound Beagle is no easy task! Her picture is below this post. I have no idea how to post small pics and then click on them to see them full size. Dana, wanna help me out on that?

I need to go. I just put Josiah in the corner and I need to speak with him.

Three Things Meme

A bunch of questions in groups of three.

THREE THINGS THAT SCARE ME:
01 | Skydiving.
02 | Riding in an airplane. (although I do it)
03 | Anything where I am not in control.

THREE PEOPLE WHO MAKE ME LAUGH:
01 | Olaf
02 | Cheri
03 | My brother, CJ

THREE THINGS I LOVE:
01 | Being a wife and mom.
02 | Newborn Babies
03 | 70's music

THREE THINGS I HATE:
01 | Crowds
02 | Driving behind idiots.
03 | WalMart

THREE THINGS I DON'T UNDERSTAND:
01 | The Trinity
02 | God's Mercy
03 | God's Grace

THREE THINGS ON MY DESK:
01 | Digital Camera
02 | Fax Machine
03 | Calculator

THREE THINGS I'M DOING RIGHT NOW:
01 | Listening to Dora the Explorer on TV
02 | Yawning
03 | Rubbing dog hair off my shirt

THREE THINGS I WANT TO DO BEFORE I DIE:
01 | Get my will in order
02 | See my children happily married.
03 | Hold a grandbaby.

THREE THINGS I CAN DO:
01 | Speak Ubbi Dubbi from Zoom
02 | Wiggle my right ear without touching it.
03 | Project my voice really loudly.

THREE WAYS TO DESCRIBE MY PERSONALITY:
01 | Extroverted
02 | Funny
03 | No facade

THREE THINGS I CAN'T DO:
01 | Walk in high heel shoes.
02 | Enjoy going to the beach.
03 | Eat just one Doublestuff Oreo.

THREE THINGS I THINK YOU SHOULD LISTEN TO:
01 | Word of God
02 | Chris Tomlin's "Arriving" CD
03 | Your husband

THREE THINGS I DON'T THINK YOU SHOULD LISTEN TO EVER:
01 | Gangsta Rap Music
02 | False teachers
03 | satan's lies

THREE OF MY ABSOLUTE FAVORITE FOODS:
01 | Fried vegtables.
02 | A good cheeseburger.
03 | New York Bagels.

THREE THINGS I'D LIKE TO LEARN:
01 | Guitar
02 | Self Control
03 | Sign Language

THREE BEVERAGES I DRINK REGULARLY:
01 | Water
02 | Diet Pepsi
03 | Crystal Light

THREE SHOWS I WATCHED WHEN I WAS A KID:
01 | Charlie's Angels
02 | Love Boat
03 | Fantasy Island

Sunday and waiting for Survivor

Yes, it is the finale of Survivor tonight. That means for two hours I will be plopped mindlessly in front of the TV seeing who is going to win the million bucks. I know you super spiritual people will be closing out my blog now. I do the same thing. I make judgment calls all the time. One blog in particular. She writes about things that she does or things she enjoys and I think to myself, "How in the world can you reconcile that to your life in Christ?" And here I am watching the epitome of reality TV. First remove the log from your own eye, then you will be better suited to remove the splinter from your sister's. (That is my interpretation. The MIV. Misty Inspired Version.)

I worked out today. Saturday was a rest day, so I really needed to do some sort of workout today. I love my transFIRMer and still haven't seen the infomercial for it. I really want to see it because Carla is in it. I joined the Firm Believers Club on their website and have gotten to know a lot of the gals that were on that last infomercial. If anyone catches it and can tape it for me, I'd pay you!:)

We are heading to Disney World next May. A woman we don't even know is graciously giving us a week at a timeshare in Orlando. The cost will be about $200 for the entire week. Can you say Hallelujah? Otherwise it would not be possible. Disney tickets are so expensive and we have four children to buy for! We will be going the first week of May if it works out with the timeshare. Is timeshare one or two words? I don't know. The plan is to use our tax refund to pay for the trip next year. It should be fun. We may go to Sea World too. I used to have a friend whose husband works for Anheuser-Busch and got free tickets to Sea World. However, she is not my friend anymore so no free tickets for us!:) She ended the friendship btw. She said I was "more of a burden" than she could handle. Yeah, that's a true friend! I'm not bitter! LOL!

I really want some Ben & Jerry's that is in the freezer. I think it is calling my name. "Misty, Misty...you're a Chunky Monkey. Come eat me!"

So excited

First of all, my dog is fine. The vet thinks it is just her arthritis and gave her an injection of some sort. She does seem to be walking better today. We are supposed to take her in weekly for her shot, then taper it off to once a month. Basically it is glucosamine/chondroitin and was originally made for horses. I will also give her a glucosamine/chondroitin pill every night and see of that helps. But why am I excited you ask? I have new cellular service and I GET A SIGNAL IN MY HOUSE! This is huge! We have never, ever, ever, had a signal in our house before. To top it off, we got an awesome phone for FREE. Better than free. They are giving us a $30 rebate on each phone! Woo Hoo! I love Cingular! If you are a Cingular customer and want to call me, e-mail me and I'll give you my number!:) And you know what else I did? I downloaded a ringtone. Yep, "Lights" by Journey is my ringtone. Love it! I love new technology. I'm a techno junkie. My husband just laughs at me because I am so excited about this phone.

I mowed the lawn today. Whew! That is hard work. I was absolutely beat when I came in. Not to mention filthy. There will be no FIRM workout today. I am a bit sore from my workout yesterday. I used the 8 pound dumbbells for the chest work and shoulder work. I am feeling it today. I LOVE that feeling. Woo Hoo!

Caleb has a horse show at CORRAL tomorrow. That will be fun for him. He loves riding even though it looks like he never pays attention.

OK, I need to get busy. Have a great day!

Dog Day Afternoon

My doggie is not doing well. Olaf is going to take her to the vet this afternoon. I am afraid it's something more than just arthritis. Amy Jo and Mari from WAH just had to put their doggies to sleep last week. It looks like I may be next. Ella is a beagle and the cutest, fattest dog you have ever seen. I will have to post a picture of her.

I must exercise today. I missed yesterday. I had to go to WalMart and that messed up the day. As soon as Camille is done watching Racing Stripes, I will get to it. I certainly have not been eating clean and I can blame it on Olaf. He brought home junk food galore a couple of nights ago. Fritos and Bean Dip, chips, Ben & Jerry's. What was that man thinking? That I have mastered the fruit of the Spirit? I wish I could say that all my sinful gluttonous eating behaviors were under control, but I still fail now and again. I am doing much better, praise God!

It's been hot here. Well, hot for me. Anything over 80 is hot. I really don't like hot. I'm a cold person myself. Not Alaska cold or anything. Just not hot. If it could be 72 degrees and sunny with a nice light breeze everyday...ahhh, heaven on earth!

I really wish Melissa was still cleaning my house twice a month. It was the only time that the floors were mopped, the bathrooms were cleaned, and the house was dusted, all at once. I cannot get all of that done in one day while homeschooling and fixing lunches and on and on... I know some of you who can get it all done and I totally admire you! I'm just not one of those people. Maybe I'm just slothful and need to take a better look at my priorities.

Laundry calls...

Swonderings...

Courtesy of

Today I am counting my blessings!

The big ones:
God's infinite mercy and my salvation.
The delightful gift of my lord and lover, Olaf.
The blessings of four children.
Financial provision and the ability to stay at home with my family.
To live in this country where we have the freedoms we do.
The men and women who die to protect those freedoms.
My few girlfriends who love me no matter what.

The smaller ones:
Diet Pepsi
Chocolate kisses the day before your period.
Having my husband say he's crazy about me.
Having the time to do this meme.

I have never read this book. I'm so ashamed.

Take the Quiz here!

This good day, it is a gift from You.

I love Fernando Ortega!:)

This morning I awoke to my children and husband singing "Happy Mother's Day to You" and to handmade cards from each of the children. Olaf took a digital picture of each of the children and printed it out. Then he taped it to a piece of cardstock and let the children decorate their own page. It was very cute. After church we went to Lowe's to look at patio furniture. I thought maybe I wanted that for Mother's Day this year. I soon learned that patio furniture is way too expensive to be a Mother's Day present. Olaf did wash, wax, and detail my van which is the best Mother's Day gift ever! After Lowe's we went to Target and I bought a pair of Capris that actually fit me (2 sizes smaller than I am used to wearing). Most everything I have is hanging off of me so it's nice to have a pair of pants that fit. I will not wear shorts, so capris are the closest things to shorts that these legs will ever see. I also bought a running bra that zips up the front and holds these girls in place! How exciting is that?!? We stopped by Publix and got a few things so Olaf could grill out this evening. I had a turkey burger. And a hot dog. And chips. And about 15 Hershey kisses! Not so good as far as the diet goes, eh? I did do a sculpting workout today on my transFIRMer. I really, really, really need to eat "clean" as they say on the FIRM bulletin boards. I am premenstrual and really craving chocolate right now. I bought the kisses thinking I could practice some self-control and still have a taste of chocolate, but alas, I cannot.

Tomorrow will be a busy day. Camille has riding lessons then I have to drop her off at Molly's because she has a choir performance at Christian City. I cannot take her because of Caleb's bus schedule, so Molly's mom is going to take her for me. Her real performance will be May 16th at 7:00 pm. They are doing a program called "In God We Trust" and looks like a great program.

I need more chocolate. Yes, most definitely. More chocolate.

transFIRMer ROCKS!

I love my new transFIRMer! I just 55 minutes on it and used muscles that I didn't even know existed! Woo Hoo!

Homeschool Conference

Yesterday I went to our state homeschooling conference. They are always fun. Doug Phillips from Vision Forum was the keynote speaker. I listened to The Wise Woman's Guide to Blessing her Husband's Vision. I already bought this CD set last year, so the information in the session was not new. It was still just as convicting! As I took notes, several things JUMPED off the page and into my heart. The first one being Proverbs 31:11-12 "The heart of her husband trusts in her. She will do him good and not evil all the days of her life. Do I intentionally go around thinking of all the evil I can do to my husband? No. Do I do him evil anyway? You betcha! The words I use, the tone of the home, my attitudes all can do evil to my husband. Doug then proceeded to ask three questions.

1. Are you more apt to teach or listen to your husband?
2. Do you view your mission in life as being your husband's "completer?"
3. Do you rejoice in the task of taking care of your home and family, or do you find it more of a burden than a blessing?

OK, OUCH number 2! SO, I have a lot of praying, reading, and repenting to do. That is always a good thing.

Olaf went to the homeschool conference today and listened to Doug speak on The Visionary Father's Role in Home Education. He said it was really good. This was Olaf's first homeschool conference. He wanted to see everything that the homeschool world has to offer. And there is a lot of it!

I got my new transFIRMer yesterday. I am going to go workout just as soon as I end this blog entry. I am SO stoked! Just in time for Mother's Day. Speaking of that...my husband completely detailed my van while I was at the conference yesterday. I mean, he spent 4 or 5 hours on the inside alone. Right now he has all of the children outside while he washes and waxes the outside for me. What a man! My van was disgusting, folks! Let's just say that a person could have lived in there for about a month on the old french fries and Nutri Grain bar crumbs. It is SO clean right now it feels like new. Wootylujah.

OK, off to sweat.

Your English Skills:

Spelling: 100%

Punctuation: 80%

Vocabulary: 80%

Grammar: 60%

Does Your English Cut the Mustard?

March of Dimes and abortion

I know the March of Dimes walk is going on, but I just wanted to point out that MOD is a big abortion supporter. If you do a Google search for "March of Dimes abortion" you will find a host of information. Just in case you're interested. I once heard (and I have not verified this myself) that MOD buys aborted babies for their research. It makes sense to me, but again, I have not verified that information for myself. FYI...

My root canal went fine. I am in no pain. No pain whatsoever. The Lord blessed me there. My next appointment is for the crown build up. That will be a long appointment which is never fun.

I am behind in my Believing God Bible Study. I need to watch week 5 still. I really like it though. I have been blessed by it.

Well I need to go rock Josiah in the chair. Momma duty calls...

I took Camille to the concert tonight. She had fun. Of course I had to buy her a SCC T-Shirt since it was her very first concert ever:) I really enjoyed everyone except TobyMac. I mean, even Toby was fun...but the rap scene isn't for me. Chris Tomlin was really great. Tree 63 was good too. We left halfway into SCC's set though. I didn't want to fight traffic and it was already late. We went through the Taco Bell drive through and ate in the car on the way home. I have eaten SO horrible this week. I will not weigh in tomorrow because I don't want to know. I am starting over tomorrow. There's always tomorrow, right?

My root canal gets finished tomorrow. Olaf had to take the day off so I could go. What a man!

Off to bed. Just wanted to tell you we went and it was fun.

I got to chat with Cheri last night. That was fun. I have made so many good friends at wah. If you are a Christian woman you must go visit the boards. The women there are so much fun and yet so real in their relationship with Christ. Even if you are not a Christian woman go visit anyway.

Still not sure what we are doing about the concert tomorrow. We are trying to give the tickets away. Sorry, Dana. If you were here I'd give them to you.

Want to see what I bought my mom for Mother's Day? Here it is. I got her the medium one in the pink with her name monogramed on it. Then, being the ever so clever person that I am, filled it with all kinds of things that are from Georgia. (My mom is in Oregon!) I bought country grits and peach preserves from Callaway Gardens. A Southern cookbook. Yankee candles, Peach scented. Another candle that was made here in GA and the fragrance is called Kudzu Blossom. (You cannot get any more Georgian that Kudzu!) Lots of pecan candies and stuff like that. Knowing my mother she won't be at all impresed though!:) I'm quite certain that Olaf hasn't bought my Mother's Day present yet. I have been indecisive in telling him exactly what I want. I used to just let him buy me whatever he wanted and every year it was the same thing. A candle or Bath and Body Works. Nice gifts, don't get me wrong. But sometimes a little variation is good. Now I just tell him what I want! LOL! Last year I hinted heavily at the lilac bush. Oh, I drove by our old house yesterday. We planted lilac bushes there when we first moved in so they are 11 years old now. They were HUGE! I went up to the house and talked to the people that live there and asked if I could cut a few. They smell wonderful. Olaf did such a great job landscaping our first home. A friend from New York sent us three lilac bushes through a nursery as a house warming gift. I wish we would have dug them up and taken them when we moved 7 years ago. Olaf wants to drive by the house and see the fruition of his work! He will be proud.

Olaf is still sleeping. He'll be grumpy when he gets up. If he sleeps in, he is not in a good mood. And he is tired all day too. Oh well. I feel sorry for the man because he rarely gets more than 6 hours sleep a night. He's working on 10 right now!

Have a wonderful weekend!

Finally Friday

Olaf won tickets last night from a local Christian radio station to go see Steven Curtis Chapman, TobyMac, Tree 63, and Chris Tomlin. I have no idea who TobyMac or Chris Tomlin are though. It is this Sunday and I'm not sure if we will go or give the tickets away. We don't "do" babysitters (especially at night) but we need to make a decision soon. Olaf would be more than happy to stay home and let me go with three friends, but I'm not sure if I even want to do that.

Josiah is feeling better. Thank you for praying for him. I have another prayer request. My friend, Karen, is 32 or 33 years old and has five young children. Her liver and spleen are very enlarged and she is in a lot of pain. She is waiting to get in for a liver biopsy next week. Please pray the the Lord will heal her and give her peace in all of this. The gastro doctor seemed very concerned. She is vomiting a lot and has swelling in her legs as well. It just doesn't look good, but we KNOW that God is who He says He is and He can DO what He says He can do! Praise God.

I go back Monday for the rest of my root canal. Oh joy. I am on antibiotics right now because of the pain. The dentist thought it may be infected.

Have a great day!

Caleb at Special Olympics!

Ready, Set, GO!

Softball Throw

First Place Softball Throw