Fertility Socks 2

I meant to get this up last night, but it didn't happen... I got caught up in my book and before I uploaded the pictures - it was time for bed. You guys have NO idea how excited I was to get not one, but TWO packages on the same day!

One was sort of expected, but the other was a complete surprise that truly had me smiling...

The first package contained these socks from Fertility Socks, and they are super cute!

The second package came from Heather, she is just she sweetest thing! I love all of these, and have tried on two pair already. :-) She's sneaky...but the surprise was well worth it! *WINK*

Here I am testing out one pair of my new socks... so cute and oh so comfy!

The funny thing is that I rarely get to wear socks during the work week, but I love to keep my tootsies warm in the evenings... so I'm going to get use out of these both for doctor's appointments AND my own personal warmth. Just a small bright spot in my day that I had to share with all of you.

Award Time

I got this Queen of All Things Awe-Summ award from Nicole






The Rules Are:

*List 7 Things That Make You Awe-Summm!
*Pass It On To 7 Bloggers Who Are Awe-Summm!
*Be Sure To Tag Your Awe-Summm Bloggers To Let Them Know!
*Then Link Back To The Queen That Tagged You!


7 Things that make me Awe-Summm:

1. The fact that I now only really have to cook on the weekends and have plenty of food for John and I to eat for the entire week!
   
2. The fact that I have seen every episode of Saved by the Bell a bazillion and one times, but still get sucked in to watching them if I see them - same thing with Law and Order.
   
3. The fact that I get an incredible sense of pride (in a good way) when I see John enjoying being in the Worship Team every Sunday - it's great that he gets to use his musical talents for the benefit of God.
   
4. The fact that I love of reading and ability to get completely wrapped up in the characters.
   
5. The fact that I walked my first 5K earlier this year... even if an unfortunate parking incident made it a 10K!
   
6. The fact that even though I don't enjoy it most of the time - I am good at my job.
   
7. Finally, the fact that so far - my black thumb of plant growing hasn't hit the garden... it it thriving!

7 Bloggers who are Awe-summm:

1. Infertility Rocks - funny stuff, ya'll MUST check her out.
   
2. Bariatric Babe - just getting started with her weight loss surgery journey... but love her already!
   
3. Sauer Attitudes - a friend that just had the most beautiful baby ever!
   
4. Sugar Mommy - a church friend that is amazing ya'll - she's super Mom - she has 4 kids under the age of 6 and her husband is working in Africa (5 weeks on/5 weeks off)
   
5. Metamorphosis - another one just getting started on her weight loss journey.
   
6. Simpson Sightings - a former church friend who is amazing, she finds the time to be super crafty - a great mom - a friend - and executive director for a really cool new ministry group in our area.
   
7. Schoen Schenanigans / Double the Blessing - I couldn't choose one but these are two former church friends that are also sisters in law... and have GREAT families with really entertaining stories.

Bonus: Double the Babies, Double the Fun - my friend and former coworker, Allie cracks me up with tales of her twins... who she affectionately calls "The Animals" - they are hysterical!

Kathryn at This 'n That from on the Mountain nominated me for the Attitude of Gratitude Award. Where she described me as cute, sassy, & a lot of fun as she grabs life by the tail no matter what it throws at her. How sweet is that?!

Here are her instructions:
* Put the logo on your blog or post
* Nominate at least 10 blogs that show an an attitude of gratitude
* Link to your nominees within your post
* Comment on their blogs to let them know they've received this award
* Share the love & link to this post & the person who nominated you for the award
* Tell us how you've come to have an attitude of gratitude

These are my 10 Attitude of Gratitude award nominees, in no particular order!

1. Laurie at Adventures of Gastric Girl - she is charming, funny, and not afraid to show how grateful she is to have her life back after the help of weight loss surgery.


2. Meghan at Megga Meggs - she is also a fellow cut & paste girl, and boy has she taken life by the hands over the last year... and of course she is grateful that she'll be having plastic surgery next week!


3. Donna at Ride Like a Girl! - she is truly inspirational... she had weight loss surgery a year before I did - and to look at her now... she's a triathlon queen!


4. Renee at Right Foot Forward - No matter what is going on in the life of her family (my real life best friend) takes an attitude of gratitude in everything she does.


5. Jenn at From the Desk of a Princess - has gratitude and love pouring out of her on a daily basis... even in the worst of times she's grateful for what she has in that moment, and follows God's lead to mend the rest.


6. Heather at Heather's Hodgepodge - she has taught me a lot in the little time I've known her... her zest for life and generosity is amazing.


7. Heather at Heather's Roller Coaster Journey - is another lady taking life by the horns and getting her life back in so many ways with the help of weight loss surgery.


8. Christi over at The Journey - shares with us a little piece of life with her family, and it is an amazing journey. She is funny and poignant... and her analogies about God's love can bring a tear to my eye.


9. Jennifer at Hope Endures - I've just started getting to know Jennifer a little better, and BOY has her journey through infertility been a ride a minute. She shared the long version with me via email, and knowing that she has come through it with her faith in tact - shows just how much gratitude she has in her heart.


10. Erica over at Parenthood for Me - ya'll... if you haven't read about her... you need to... she wrote a post recently about her gratitude over how her life has come full circle and her family is complete now - including a yard for her dog, Lucy. (I cried... big blubbery couldn't breathe tears over this one)

Whew... this was a tough post - but these are some of my absolute favorite blogs... now I will also tell you that a few of my favorite infertility sisters were tagged by Nicole and I didn't want to tag them again - but check them out too: Becky, Summer and Bonnie

Oink?

Yes, this is my acknowledgement of the swine flu panic that is going around our country. I've sat back now for several days being cautiously worried about it, but also realizing that it is the media's job to make us all want to panic and run for the hills.

Unfortunately though, we had a young boy die yesterday in Houston from this illness - he actually came for treatment and was a Mexican citizen, but still sad that a young boy lost his life over this illness.

This morning, we learned that the high school next door to my office has a confirmed case of the swine flu as well - and has shut down the school for the time being.

In addition, there was a flurry of meetings that our executive team took part in this morning because we are currently waiting to get confirmation of a case at one of our own sites. Which hits really close to home being that the people I work with all day everyday - have a lot of access to those sites and could easily pick up the germs and bring them into the office.

In case you don't know it - my company does childcare, head start programs, healthy start programs, and charter school education for the city of Houston - but our client base is about a 60% immigrant population. So there is likely a lot of contact with our clients and their families from Mexico and other nations in Latin America.

We are unsure what the plan will be for our offices as well as programing if the case is confirmed... but it could be another crazy flurry of activity here pretty soon.

I hope that you are all taking special care to wash your hands after contact with others - and all the other precautionary measures that have been recommended by the media. While I don't truly worry about death being a problem with this flu - I don't particularly enjoy being sick either... so I'll do my best to avoid it at all costs!

I pray for all of those that do get it, and that they will recover from the illness with minimal problems. I pray for doctors around the world to have the knowledge to help as many lives as they can - and figure out a way to keep as many from getting it as possible.

*Edited to add: I also think it's sad and unfair that the pigs of the world are getting a bad rep over this... Poor little piggies... I hope that no one is miss treating any of them out there.

Confirmation

You guys want to know the exact moment that you realize that your decision to not get out in the flood is confirmed to be a brilliant move??

When you are driving to work the next day, and you see a car just like yours... and by that I mean it was a sedan with 4 doors (I know my knowledge of cars is astounding!)... sitting at an intersection you frequently take (for those in town - Jarvis & Huffmeister) - with flood water up over the doors!

We drove by this morning when the tow truck pulled in to get the car out, and both John and I couldn't believe it. I mean the rain water has been receding since yesterday - and it was still up over the doors of this car.

It just makes you wonder how high it was when the water was at its worst...

What happened to get this car stuck in that much water?

Is the driver alright?

I mean it's one thing to see water on the news flooding in some places up to 24' higher than normal... but it is something quite different to see it with your own eyes in a place that you've actually driven - while knowing that you went through there hours if not minutes before the flooding really got bad.

We too drove through some deep water on Monday night, but it pales in comparison to what we saw this morning.

Part of me wishes that I'd had my camera this morning to show you what we saw... but another part of me knows that pictures don't do it justice.

Q&A Wednesday

Staci asked: Are you ever afraid someone from you office will read your blog or discover your facebook profile?

I honestly have never worried about it too much - I don't directly tell anyone at the office about either one, but also don't say anything on either that I wouldn't necessarily hide from them either. So, I guess if they have time to Google me... as if they'd have the interest... that is their choice. I tend to mainly focus on the important things in my life - my priorities - which sadly don't relate to my job.

I guess this doesn't answer your question at all, but my blog and writing focuses more on my personal life - infertility, weight loss surgery, spirituality... which all go into making me the person that I am - my job is just a means to provide the financial resources to be able to pursue the things that interest me.

So that ALL being said, I've never worried about it.

Joanna asked: What is your idea of fun? If given a choice to skip work for a day, how would you spend the entire day?

It's funny that you should ask that question in such a way... because I always have such big plans for my days off. I always plan to do some scrapbooking, reading, and napping... but rarely does that ever seem to happen. (except maybe the napping on occasion)

So, in a perfect world... maybe if the power was out... and I didn't get sucked into the laptop's vortex... I'd start out with a Starbucks (delivered somehow) and a good hour or two reading whatever book I'm currently reading. Right now it's Friday Night Knitting Club, but next on my list is American Wife... followed by Sue Grafton's Alphabet Series. (I bought the Alphabet Series for my Dad - as I was told it would be a great set of books for someone that loves Women's Murder Club Series)

Next, maybe a nap... AHHHHHHHHHHHHH... oh wait... sorry!

Then a afternoon of scrapbooking - I always find that it takes me longer to do a layout than I really think it does. Somehow the time passes by three times as fast when I'm in the craft room.

Although - any time that I'm away from the office - I think passes by MUCH quicker than the time I am in the office. It stinks!

From reading your blog, I see that you love to write. Do you love to read too? If you were relaxing on the beach, what book would be in your beach bag?

I guess I sort of answered that in the last answer... but really - any good book that has sucked me in... and now I'm going to have to add Knit Two and Comfort Food to my reading list... Kate Jacobs is a GREAT writer.

Sadly, however... you won't find me with a beach bag... since I'm allergic to salt water and the sun and I don't get along too well... it likes to BURN the snot out of me!

Sugar Mommy asked: My question is, (and forgive me if you've had this question already and if you've told us...I've not been good at keeping up, or remembering information *ahem*) if you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go?

Hmmmm... within the US or abroad?

Within the US... I'd say: New York City; Washington, D.C.; Gaitlinburg, TN; or Mackinac Island, MI. I've been to all four, but loved them so much - I want to go again. John hasn't been to the first three on the list - so I'd dearly love to be able to share them with him.

Abroad... I'd say: Italy; Ireland; England; and Norway. The first three, I just want to see them... and experience the culture. Norway, is not only because it would be neat to experience it... but I'd love to be able to see where my friend Nicole lives and what life is like there. The stories she tells are hysterical... so I'd love to experience how the other half lives. :-)

Heather asked: Were there any surprises once you had your surgery? If so, what surprised you?

I think the biggest surprise is that I didn't really believe them when they said that it would be hard to recognize yourself a year later. In so many ways that is true - and it's frightening at times. My personality has changed somewhat... my appearance obviously has changed... but my mind hasn't caught up with that just yet. I've talked before about how I still think and feel like I'm a 320 pound woman walking around... expecting at every turn for someone to look at me funny or say something rude about my weight - but it doesn't happen anymore...

The only time my "mind's eye" catches up and realizes that I'm not that girl anymore is when I see it in photographs... there isn't any denying what you see in a picture - but let me tell you the mind can FOR SURE jack up the image you see in a mirror... so when in doubt - take a picture... it will show you the good and the bad.

Parenthood for Me asked: What is your dream occupation?

Above all else, my dream occupation would be a stay at home mother/wife... I love nothing more than taking care of John - and I know that would only extend into a desire to take care of our children.

For the time being though - that isn't financially feasible... so... a year or so ago - I would have told you an elementary school teacher... and believe me - I'd still say that a job like that would move my cheese much farther than what I'm doing now. The only thing is that right now, I honestly would dearly love to be a writer or a book editor too... I can just see myself in some office (hopefully at my house) writing and editing books... just being lost in the words and the craft of putting them together. THAT would be glorious.

That's all we have for today... this might be the best one yet - we had questions from 5 different people today... how exciting is that?! HA! I love that this is a time when you guys can ask me things that I might not know to tell you - or might not think that you'd find interesting... it also gives me a little chance to interact with my readers - who I just happen to think are the best on the internet. :-)

If any of these questions inspires a question of your own - please feel free to ask away in the comments... I'll put up a reminder next Tuesday to give you one more shot to submit before the deadline.

Skin Care

So, who out there is completely overwhelmed by the number of products that we're supposed to use as women to keep ourselves looking: young, supple, clean, beautiful... etc?!

I for one am, and really it boils down to the fact that I'd rather have 2 minutes more sleep than spend the time making myself beautiful for the people at the office.... I mean really... I'm not trying to attract any of them - I'd honestly rather them leave me alone most of the time. (Oops... lets just call that a character flaw...)

My constant quest is to find ways to cut down the time spent on my beauty regime and more time getting on with my life... and I can only imagine those with children have this desire intensified... because seriously, who has time for that extra 10 minutes of beautification when there are children to feed. Even more, what's the point if you're going to get spit up on 12 times that day?

ANYWAY... let me just introduce you to a life saver that I've found in the beauty section of Wal*Mart. (Apparently, that is how it's supposed to be spelled - according to my database at work.)

First, let me preface this by telling you that for a short period of time... I sold beauty products through BeautiControl. The irony there is not lost on me... a woman with my attitude about beautifying trying to sell such products, but really I was only interested in their line of spa products. I am a horrible sales person... so I lost my status as a consultant... but I can hook you up with a great one if any of those products interest you.

In my training to sell BeautiControl's products - they made a point to tell us that when choosing a line of products, the most important thing with skin care is that you use a cleanser and toner from the same line. They are ph balanced to work together - so it is important to stick with products from the same line. With moisturizers - it is not as important that it be from the same line.

Okay, seriously... back to my point...

In my quest to get ready in less than 30 minutes (yes, I can...), I try to do as much as I can in the shower - sort of subscribing to the one stop shopping philosophy... I've even tried brushing my teeth in there, but the hot water factor didn't quite work for me. So instead of washing my face separately... (and please don't lecture me about needing to wash my face before bed) I found the perfect solution!

Biore makes a line of products called their Daily Recharging line... they also call it rehab for your skin (which makes me giggle a little... when did my skin get an addiction problem) This 4-1 self foaming cleanser is AMAZING! In one product it cleans, tones, stimulates, and detoxifies. The website says that: the airy foaming cleanser gently removes dirt, oil and makeup from the skin. Contains extracts of sugar beet, a known skin-conditioner, antioxidant green tea leaf and eucalyptus to help skin feel fresh and glowing.

Call me extra lazy, but I love that it's a cleanser AND a toner in one step. My favorite part of using this product is that it makes my face have a little tingle in the shower - which is sort of invigorating to me at 5 in the morning... it sort of helps wake me up.

With my extra sensitive skin, products tend to dry my face out and I haven't noticed that at all with this product - and it is oil free for those that have problems with oily skin as well. I've felt no irritation with using this product, and am actually now on my second bottle.

In doing a little research this morning, I found this moisturizer that I am going to have to add to my shopping list... it is listed as a "Perfect Partner" for my foaming cleanser. It again is oil free, if that is a concern for you. It also has built in sunscreen - which is a must in today's world. I has vitamins A, C, and E in with other anti-oxidant ingredients. The website says: Nourish Moisture Lotion SPF 15 formula uses humectants to lock in moisture. That means your skin is optimally hydrated and glowing. Natural extracts of celandine (wild yellow poppy), rose hip, chamomile, and aloe soothe, moisturize and strengthen skin and provide calming, anti-inflammatory benefits.

So there you have it folks... great products at a great price... and you can find them at all of your regular stores. It works for me!

Head on over to We are THAT Family for more WFMW ideas.

Rainy Day Randomness

Today has been pretty much spent working while hanging on the couch... no one left the house or got out of their pajamas, and with the exception of the pesky working - it was a gloriously wonderful gift to be able to stay home when the weather was craptastic!

We officially got 12 inches of rain here, and 99% of that was dumped in two storms... one between 4PM-6PM and the other between about 2AM-4AM... the second being worse and I'm pretty sure it involved some hail. Parts of the city were completely flooded - and being that we had such a hard time getting home last night... it was for the best that we chose to stay in.

John's cousin's husband (HA!), Philip works with the diving team with the Houston Police Department... and he apparently had to go on a mission today to search for a car that went down a 10' storm drain with the driver inside. The searched, but never found the driver... she had been down there since yesterday - so there is at least one family out there tonight mourning the loss of a loved one from the storm. They will go back tomorrow when the water recedes at little more, and search again.

With that - the rest of the post will share some pictures that I've been meaning to put up for a few days, but hadn't gotten to just yet....

This is Missy doing what she does best... sitting on Maggie... poor Maggie - at least she doesn't seem to care that she gets used as a personal lazy boy recliner!

We put this guy out in the garden this weekend, so that he could scare off the birds.

The owl from far away, but really the goal of this picture is to show you guys that I mowed the grass this weekend! I got tired of watching the NFL draft, and wanted to help John not get so tired/dehydrated doing the yard work... so I mowed... I know that some of you have no clue how big of a deal that is... it's HUGE!


A little more photographic evidence that I mowed... HA... I was/am proud!

A week or so ago, I went to my friend Danielle's for a Stamp Camp... we made cards and all sorts of stuff - this is a little box that has 4 chocolates inside... super cute!

A Father's Day card...

A "thinking of you" card...

A birthday card... I messed up the design a bit, but it's still cute - the Happy Birthday stamp is inside instead of where it belongs on the outside. Oops! The petals on the flower were stamped on white card stock... and cut out... it was VERY FUN! I loved that stamp set...

This is a Mother's Day card...

So that's about it for today - I would really appreciate it if you guys could keep my friend Jenn, From the Desk of a Princess in your prayers tonight - she has had a rough day or two, and needs as much lifting up to the Lord as we can provide. Pray for her to have strength, peace, patience, and wisdom to work through the troubles she is facing tonight.

I'm going to be guest blogging for her this weekend while she goes to Florida to be the photographer for her friend's wedding - so I'll let you guys know when those posts go up.

Q&A Wednesday Reminder

As I sit here in my house... watching the flood go by... I thought it would be a good time to remind you guys that you need to submit your questions for Q&A Wednesday today.

Seriously - we got over 10 inches of rain in about 12 hours... and everything is still soaked from a similar storm two weeks ago. So the flooding is lovely - and we almost didn't make it home last night. Picture me white knuckled with clenched teeth driving home for two hours and can't really see the car in front of me. YIKES!

I'm working from home today - so I'll be back to post again!

Anyway, submit those questions in the comments - and I'll answer them for tomorrow morning. For those of you that are new to my little corner of the web - the idea here is that you get to ask me anything you want (as long as it is clean) and I'll answer your question tomorrow.

Movie Quote Monday

(How cute is this little graphic I made?)

My friend Jenn has started up her own blog carnival - it's still in the early stages... but I think it will be really fun! The idea is that you think about your life... either this very moment, the past week... the past day - whatever you choose - and sum it up with a movie quote.

Sometimes the things that are written for our entertainment can be extremely poignant, true, and hysterically funny.

I'd say that mine ties back to my post from this morning.

It's from the movie Hitch: "Life is not the amount of breaths you take, it's the moments that take your breath away."

What movie quote sums up your life today? Go on over and visit Jenn to let her know... be sure to link to her, and use our nifty graphic too. :-)

Encouragement

I'd have to say that one of the hardest things about struggling to have a child is that at times in a world that is extremely baby crazy... you feel REALLY alone. If you live in one of the most fertile areas of your city... it can get infinitely worse.

I'm not kidding when I tell you that everywhere I go - there are bazillions of kids and pregnant women... and it makes the sting of the wait a little harder at times.

This weekend though, it seems as if God was sending me a message... LOUD and CLEAR. He crossed me with two women that have been through similar struggles and come out on the end with the result that I so desperately pray for.

One lady, goes to our church and while I've seen her around - I've never gotten to know her personally. Through the magic of email, she found my blog and learned of our story. Yesterday, she sweetly stopped me after the service and gave me some wonderful words of encouragement. (Thanks Lisa M!) She reminded me that she doesn't know of any women that have wanted children - that don't have them now. That doesn't mean that they've all had children naturally, but in some way... their dream of a baby has been realized. That is encouraging... even if I would really rather have my baby sooner rather than later.

The other, is a former coworker... from the crazy job from hell...who out of the blue emailed me on Friday. Anyway, she was one of the few bright spots around that place, and since I left there - has apparently left as well, and gone through a battle with infertility. She has recently gotten pregnant and is due on November 12th! (Hi Amy C!) The hysterically funny part of this discovery is that her fertility specialist - is the very doctor that I had such a horrible experience with several years ago. What a small world!

These women breathed life into me this weekend, and interestingly enough - I am reconsidering my decision to leave the Children's Ministry at our church. I'm not saying that I won't do it, BUT for right now... I'm going to be still and try to listen to what God is telling me. I don't want to run away from the problem because hiding certainly isn't the way to solve my problem. So it might be that some weeks, I ask them to find a sub for me - because the pain of being in that classroom might overwhelm me... other weeks, I'll be just fine.

Honestly, I would miss the kids terribly if I completely walked away. I've grown to love those two year olds, and two of the boys - I've watched really mature and get comfortable with the other teacher and I.

One boy in particular, Joshua - is so stinking cute... his Mom teaches the older preschool class that we combine with to watch our puppet show and do worship. Literally one week, he was an emotional wreck when we left the puppet show to go back to our class... it took us the rest of the time to console him... but the very next week he looked at his Mom and said "Bye Mommy...see you later" and just walked right back to our room. Such a sweetie!

Another boy, Jacob - also is adorable... with the cutest little curls. He used to completely MELT down when his Mom left him with us... to the point that it would take either his Mom or one of our wonderful male volunteers to console him. (Amazingly he loved men, and would be alright as long as one of them was around.) Over the last month or so - I've watched him really transform into being alright when he realizes his Mom isn't there anymore... and he hasn't cried a bit. He does GREAT!

Of course, it's hard for me to get around Renee's daughter "L" who gets a little ticked when I have to pay attention to the other kids... she claims me as her own... and of course you guys know how much I love that kid! She has pretty much adopted John and I... and we eat it up. She IS one of my all time favorite kids EVER!

We have a couple of other kids in our class too - and believe me, I love them all... they are so much fun.

So there you go...that's where I am with all of this today - feeling alright...and hanging in there waiting for the next stage of the process.

Town Hall For Hope

Last night, in sort of spur of the moment decision - on my part at least... little did I know it was planned all along for us to go to our church and watch the Town Hall For Hope event put on by Dave Ramsey.

Those of you that haven't known me long - might not know that I'm a HUGE Dave Ramsey fan... he certainly has changed our life for the better, in so many ways. His financial practices are based on Biblical principles, and are a fantastic model for getting your life on track. We actually gained control over our money, and put it to work for US - instead of the other way around.

Not only does he make a LOT of sense, but he makes learning about economics entertaining. He brings it to the level of those of us that aren't number crunchers... and I really dig that about him.

These are some of my favorite bumper stickers that he puts out.

So the Town Hall For Hope was amazing! Beyond words, and YOU have the chance to not miss out on this... they will rebroadcast the entire program this weekend - click here for a list of stations and times. I HIGHLY recommend it to all of you. It was such an amazing ray of light in this whole recession doom and gloom that we've been hearing for the last several months.

Interestingly enough - he proved the point that this isn't even the worst recession we've had since the Great Depression! It's funny though with the constant stream of media - you would think that things are worse that they were back then.

The premise behind the event is that you don't have to participate in the recession... you can choose to live your life, take personal responsibility and go forward. Work... live your life...and don't let your decisions be made out of fear. I of course can't do justice to the message that Dave laid out for us last night, but THIS is how we will be living our lives.

Yes, things are bad for some people right now - you can't make light of that - but for the majority of the nation... people are just simply reacting to what they hear on the news. It's a sad fact, but it isn't their job to necessarily inform you accurately to make your own decisions... it is their job to draw you in to watch more of their programming... and this happens on both sides of the aisle.

So, choose to say "hang on a minute folks" and educate yourself... make your own decisions about what it means and how it effects your life... don't let anyone else do that for you.

Dave had these steps to give us about how to keep going in light of what the media is trying to feed us: (these are his words taken from the website)

1. Get up and take action
   
   You are the cure, America. No one else is going to solve your problems for you—that's your job! Find out how you can take control of your money, turn back the fear in your community, and hold your representatives accountable for the decisions they're making on your behalf.
   
   If you're looking for a turnaround in this economy, then you need to take a look in the mirror. Change isn't going to come from Wall Street, Washington or big business. It's going to come from you. Real change will only happen when we, as a nation, take some personal responsibility and identify the specific things we can do to make a difference. Here are some suggestions:
   
   Take Control of Your Money
   If you truly want to rediscover hope in this economy, it is absolutely essential that you take control of your money. Like Zig Ziglar says, "There isn't much you can do about the national economy, but there is a lot you can do about your personal economy." You'll find a wealth of information, tools and resources at daveramsey.com.
   
   Get Informed
   Dave shared a lot of important, yet seldom discussed, facts and figures during Town Hall for Hope. He also shed some light on key historical figures that have shaped America's economy. Empower yourself to defend hope by reviewing this critical information in our Get Informed resource center.
   
   Contact Your Representatives
   Don't forget, your Senators and Representatives work for you! If you have any concerns with the decisions they're making (and you should!), then let them know! Contact the men and women who are speaking on your behalf.
   Senate
   House of Representatives
   
2. Don't listen to loser talk
   
   We're sick and tired of the "loser talk" that has permeated the media, the water cooler and the internet. Stop listening to the garbage, and start speaking a word of hope!
   
   No matter where you turn, it seems all you hear is doom and gloom, as a spirit of fear has settled over the whole nation. We’re sick of it! Get away from the “loser talk” that is permeating the airwaves—and the water coolers. If you want to discover hope, you’ve got to remove yourself from those people and places that will always bring you down.
   
   Turn Off the News
   One of the biggest challenges in restoring hope to the nation is the endless stream of opinions and information that we’re hit with throughout the day. We’re neck-deep in the information age, and it’s killing us! Sure, you need to know what’s going on in the world, but you don’t need to have the news, radio and RSS feeds going 24/7. Our advice: maintain a get in–get out attitude about news.
   
   Inject Hope Into the Discussion
   You will no doubt stumble upon, or even into, discussions about the economy several times a week. When you do, you have to remember that you will inject either fear or hope into the discussion. Choose hope! Watch what you say, and be mindful that your words and attitude will have an impact on those around you. If you aren’t sure what to say at all, be sure to check out our Get Informed resource section.
   
   Spread the Message of Hope
   Speak up, America! For too long, we've allowed others to do our talking for us. Now it's time to take the conversation back! Discover all the different ways you can spread the message of hope across the country --and around the world-- in our Get Involved section. You'll be able to spread hope through Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, blogs and more!
   
3. Give
   
   Learning how to give—whether it's money, time or support—changes your whole mindset. Dave says it pretty clearly: "We can't win if we can't give." If you want to win with money and change the nation, you've got to learn how to give again.
   
   Giving is a natural expression of help and hope in the world. In a sense, we were made to be givers; it’s how we’re wired. If all the money comes in, and none of the money flows out, then we just become stopped up. And anything that gets stopped up eventually begins to stink. The bottom line is that greedy people can’t spread hope in the world. If you really want to make a difference, think about these three giving suggestions.
   
   Take Care of Your Family First, Then Share With Others
   There is a wonderful ceremony in the Jewish tradition called the Havdalah. Essentially, the Havdalah is a reminder that each individual is first and foremost responsible for taking care of his or her own family. But that’s not all. We’re called to do such a fantastic job at providing for our families that there is an overflow—an abundance of resources. And out of that abundance, we have a responsibility to help others.
   
   Give Your Time
   It may sound like a cliché, but “giving” doesn’t necessarily mean “money.” Oftentimes, the most meaningful gift you can give is the gift of time and attention. Don’t settle for the Christmas and Thanksgiving shift at the local homeless shelter. Find ways you can spread hope with your hands year-round. Is there a single mom that needs help with babysitting? Does an older neighbor need help with her yard work? Get out of your house and show your community hope in action.
   
   Out-Give the Government
   Regardless of your political views, remember that it is possible to change the nation without casting a single vote. When everyday American citizens make giving a priority, no one will have to look to Washington for a bail out. Support your local businesses. Give your time and money to your church and local nonprofits. Open your hands and your pocketbook to those in need. Don’t buy in to the notion that the government will supply your every need. Make it your goal to out-give the government.

There you have it friends, choose to live a life of HOPE not a life of FEAR.

Friday Favorites #2

Good morning friends. I'm back with the second edition of the Friday Favorites...

I've got a lot of posts to write, but right now work is having to take the front seat... so bare with me and come back this afternoon/evening and there will be some other stuff for you to read about.

My favorite post for this week is called Always Loving Me... and in the event that you missed it earlier this week - feel free to check it out.

As with last week, the only thing I ask in return for sharing your favorite post would be that you put a link up on your blog sharing that everyone should come over and check out the favorites of the week.

I'm thinking of changing this feature - so if we don't get more than 4 links this week... look for Friday Favorites to change into something competely different.

Aliens

Well, so much for that! My doctor's office just called to tell me that my progesterone level is 0.9... and an ovulating woman would have a number of 10 or higher. I honestly can tell you without a shadow of a doubt that I have no emotion over this right now... it could be that I am just so ill from this nausea that I don't have any energy/emotion left - or it could be that even in light of letting myself dream a little bit - I knew... deep down, I knew.

I want it so badly - I just feel like on some level when it happens - I'll know deep down in my soul. Sort of like when I met John and I just knew that he was going to be my husband... you guys know what I'm talking about?

So apparently the Clomid did a major number on my hormones... as my testosterone went from 20 to 52 in a matter of like 5 days! Again, I don't know why in the WORLD they would have put me on this drug knowing that I had to take the pill for 3 weeks to cut my testosterone level from 40 to 20... ARG!

Okay, so they're changing me to a different pill... for another 3 weeks - I'll be taking Ovcon which is supposed to be better at reducing testosterone levels than Femcon. So we'll try that... and then we left it with them getting me some information on injections.

There is another oral medication that I could try, but she said it was our choice... so we'll just have to see what they say. The thing that bothered me about the other oral medication is that supposedly (and I'm saying it like that because I've gotten mis-information from this nurse before) there is only one dosage on Femara - so it seems like a shot in the dark. Am I wrong that it also freaks me out that Femara is something they give breast cancer patients?

Anyway...

I did some research on my own just now, and found a place that sells IVF medicines to see what the cost will be. It'll depend on the dosages and stuff, but it looks like if I'm on one of the lower dosages - it might be alright. Then again - I'm a rookie - so those of you that are more experienced... please share with me how and where you get your meds from so that I can make sure to find the lowest price/best pharmacy. I don't want to do this wrong... so seriously - let me benefit from your knowledge!

They said that they'll put me on Gonal-F, so I'm just beginning to look into what that is and how it works - but it does come loaded in a pen form like my other injections for diabetes - so at least it's not something completely foreign to me. They also make it in another form, so it would depend on the prescription again... but you know there will be more information coming as we progress down that path.

She also said that they'll have me come in for a teaching visit, at which time I could see the doctor if I wanted to... I'll have to talk to John and see what he thinks - he's much better at the questions and getting information than I am.

So girls - it looks like we'll be heading into round two - send me links for CRAZY socks to wear to at least make myself laugh through all of this!

Interesting

I bet that all of you already know this, but three days of nausea will mess with your head when you want nothing more than for it to be morning sickness. I'm trying to rein in those feelings as much as possible and just ride through the storm for what it is... MISERABLE!

Yesterday, while jokingly telling "someone" (aka Fitness Freak/Guru) about the discussion that E and I had earlier this week... she informed me that morning sickness is only in your mind. It's not real - excuse me?

I'd love to hear from all the people out there that would love to slap this lady.

She went on to tell me that the only people she knows that have had morning sickness are people that are stay at home Moms that have time for such things or drama queens. Wow, that's really nice!

I'm here to tell you that nausea is real... it is not in your mind - believe me as I sit here and fight to keep my insides inside where they belong... I can only imagine that I will get really acquainted with morning sickness during my pregnancies... because you know - that's how I roll.

If there is some crazy, miserable, minuscule chance of some sort of symptom happening to me...it's going to happen and happen BIG. John knows it, I know it... we've lived it... so I'm prepared... but I don't have to enjoy it.

For the record - I'm sipping sprite and eating saltines... and that's where I'm living right now. Not great weight loss surgery food choices, but seriously - anything else makes me curl up in a ball and beg for forgiveness.... so it's where I'll live until this passes.

Q&A Wednesday

(I made this one too! Wait until Jenn and I show you the other one I made...)

Jennifer asked:

are you a solid-color sock wearer? or do you like the crazy ones? What do your craziest socks look like?

Sadly, this can all be answered by saying that I only own white socks... that's it! I have embraced the idea of Fertility Socks though - and am on the hunt for some great socks to wear at my next appointment. (Is there somewhere I can buy the guts to wear them?)

Laurie asked:

If there was a theme song that played every time you entered a room, what would it be?

Good question - I'm not sure - the only theme song that comes to mind is Laverne and Shirley - but that wouldn't really have anything to do with me... I'd love to say the Rocky theme, but that wouldn't work either. I honestly don't have a clue... anyone know what theirs would be?

Heather asked:

What is your favorite way to celebrate her birthday?

Hmmm... birthdays... I really just love being able to relax - in whatever setting... but just doing things I enjoy that aren't stressful or fast paced.

Is there a tradition you have?

My birthday has pretty much been a series of events for many years - there will be family things, there will be friend things... the only main tradition is being surrounded by people that I enjoy.

Are there certain people involved?

Usually family and close friends - not necessarily at the same time... but over the course of the month - I'll see most of them and celebrate.

What makes the day smashing for you?

Is it weird and narcissistic to say that just having a day that is really all about YOU - is kind of fun? Even if I don't enjoy being the center of attention... I'd say that I enjoy it all - except the singing part. THAT embarrasses the snot out of me!

Of course, this year I'm certain that the words "you're pregnant" would be the best possible surprise, but is there something that comes in a close second?

Uh, yeah - those words would be the best gift EVER! (If they came early... that'd be great too!) Surprisingly - I'm not sure. I know that John has already gotten most (if not all) of my gift and he's mentioned it twice... so I think he's pretty excited about it. Have I mentioned before that he is the BEST gift giver that I've ever known? He totally gets me things that I love, without me ever giving him a single idea.

Christmas 2007 he gave me this. I've also mentioned before that the Christmas before that one he gave me the 12 Months of Christmas as a gift - which was a gift card that I opened on the 15th of each month in 2007... and they were different things. One month was a week of him doing the dishes... another month was a date night... another month was a football free weekend. Read how that turned out here. I still giggle about it. Poor guy.

Jenn asked:

Well, if this isn't TOO personal...have you & John talked about how long you will continue fertility treatments? (Please say til you have a baby, because I so want you & John to have a baby!) And if you don't want to post it, I understand! I'm a nosy broad, what can I say!

I'm still cracking up at the conversation surrounding the question... soooo nosey - here's your answer.

We haven't really discussed that just yet - he's told me that I shouldn't worry about it... and really we're just trying to take it one step at a time. So we're praying that it won't come to the point that we'll have to give up.

I do have to tell a story about when we did briefly talk about it - or well, when he figured out that I was freaking out about the money and having to stop in a couple months because it got to be too expensive. Well, several years ago - gosh like 5 or 6 now - my Lab, Maggie, got sick on Thanksgiving Day... and had to spend the weekend at the animal emergency clinic. It was bad - I had to make the decision to put her to sleep twice, but by the grace of God she made it through... it only cost us $900 to get her back out of the hospital. So ever since, to tease me... John will tell her that she'd better not get sick because she's spent her lifetime allotment of medical money - so she'll just have to get the needle.

What's my point - well - when we were talking about the baby thing - that came up and I told him that I thought he'd just give me the needle! HA!

What's the farthest away from home you've ever been?

I'm not sure in terms of distance - maybe somewhere in California or New York City... but I also went to pick up my little brother in Guatemala in 2005... and really in some ways that is an entire world of difference. I just know that the flight to Guatemala City wasn't as long as a flight to CA or NYC is.

What are you afraid of? Both in the natural world and spiritually/emotionally?

Fears... nice... lets see:

• Natural World - Snakes, Spiders, Scorpions... any beast that starts with an S that could bite me...
• Spiritually - wondering if I've truly gotten it and lived a life that has shared Christ's love
• Emotionally - this should be obvious... the fear of IF I will ever become a mother is crushing... it will literally take your breath away some days.

That's all the questions we have this week... start leaving questions for next week in the comments.

Household Cleaners

I'm amazed at how many general household items can be used as cleaners... here is a list that I found in Real Simple magazine this month:

• White Bread - can use used to dust an oil painting. Gently dab the bread over the surface to pick up dirt and grime.
  
• Ketchup - removes tarnish off of copper and brass cookware. Apply ketchup to a rag, use as a cleaner... rinse with warm water and dry with a towel.
  
• Oatmeal - can be used to scrub very dirty hands... make a paste with oatmeal and water.
  
• Rice - can use used to clean the inside of a vase or thin-necked bottle. Fill vessel 3/4 full with warm water and a tablespoon of rice... shake vigorously and rinse.
  
• Tea - can be used to clean rusty garden tools. Brew some strong black tea, cool, and soak the tools for a few hours. Wipe each tool with a cloth - wear rubber gloves or your hands will stain.
  
• Glycerin - can be used to remove dried wax drippings from candlesticks. Peel off as much wax as you can - then moisten a cotton ball with the glycerin and rub until clean.
  
• Club Soda - can be used to shine a scuffed stainless-steel sing. Buff the sink with a cloth dampened with the club soda, then wipe dry with a dry cloth.
  
• Hydrogen Peroxide - can be used to disinfect a key board... dip cotton swab in hydrogen peroxide to get into all the areas of your key board.
  
• Cornstarch - can be used to clean up grease spills on carpet. Pour onto spots and let sit for 15-30 minutes before vacuuming.
  
• Rubbing Alcohol - can be used to erase permanent-marker stains from hardwood floors or solid-surface countertops. Pour on a cotton ball and apply to stain.
  

There you have it! Enjoy! Pop on over to We are THAT Family to find other Works for Me Wednesday ideas.

Open Letter - Fitness Lady

Dear Fitness Freak Guru:

(Clapping hands in a really soft supportive way)

Ummm... I honestly appreciate that you care enough about me to critique everything that goes into my mouth while at the office, REALLY, I do. It is sweet.

However, at the moment there is A LOT going on in my life that you don't/can't truly understand... and thus I need some serious chocolate every now and then. (By "serious", please read 4 mini candy bars - not like a whole bag or anything.)

I think it is great that you want to encourage me to reach my goals, and that you are an aerobics instructor - but without sounding like a hormonal mess... BACK OFF! Go back to your office and do some desk push ups or something constructive... because it honestly isn't helping me much at all to have you pop in and give me the look of disdain.

It also makes me wonder how I can get from my cubicle to the candy dish and back without passing by your window.

So - lets be friends, and just pat me on the back and tell me it'll be alright... and leave the judgy comments about my choice in snacks to yourself.

kthanksbye,
Me

Bite Your Tongue

Every Tuesday morning, I have a meeting with my vice president... we'll call her E... because I'm REALLY creative, and that's her first initial. It's an opportunity for her to find out how projects are going and what's going on back in my little bat cave.

We didn't meet last week - which might have been divine intervention - because sometimes we don't communicate very well, and seriously one hard look from her last Tuesday and I would have been a heap of tears and tissues...

ANYWAY, I told her at our meeting two weeks ago about the fertility treatments - because with several doctors appointments happening within a short amount of time... I felt that I owed her some sort of explanation as to what in the world could be keeping me on such a crazy schedule.

Fast forward to today's meeting - we got through our work related discussion fairly quickly - that is to say... my updates weren't stellar, and I got my assignments. All in a good positive discussion... so no worries there.

She asked me "What else is going on...." and with the current state of my emotional train-wreck... I said "Well, it's just about all I can do to get out of bed and get out of the house."

She asked what was going on, and I laid out the fact that our first month didn't go well - which has led to some sadness and maybe a little borderline depression... it's hard to tell what is hormones and what might just be a problem. Quickly though, she turned it into the funniest conversation ever.

She told me about a group of women from the other side of the building that are ALL pregnant - and said I should start going down there to rub their bellies... and drink from their water fountain. I asked if I could just move my cubicle down there next to them so I could just really soak up all the fertility vibes possible.

She has declared that we're going to have multiples... and seriously if we do - I'm going back to her! She says that we'll probably have multiples... then be "done" with having children... and not be able to stop the baby train from adding more and more kids.

(Honey, relax... DEEP BREATH... IN.... and OUT...)

It really got funny when she stopped for a second to think about the possibility of bed rest with multiples... but in two seconds she had it all figured out - she's like "We'll send the IT guys to your house... get it all wired, and you can work from your bed! We just need your fingers and your brain."

There you go - I guess if nothing else, I have job security! HA!

Reminder

Q&A Wednesday is tomorrow - so don't forget to submit your questions in the comments... I'm working on making a new graphic for you all to look at in amazement and enjoy. HA! Okay, no really... send your questions and you'll get some answers tomorrow.

I'll be back later on this afternoon with a "real" post for today...

Always Loving Me

Before we jump off into what I want to say - I'm going to tell you that this is an interactive message, and you must listen to the lyrics of the songs... and by that I mean really - sit down, close your eyes and listen to the words...


That being said - take a minute to listen to this song that, for lack of a better mental image for you - hit me over the head like a ton of bricks yesterday while I was going to get my pre-church Starbucks.

Avalon - Always Ha...

The first words of the song really struck me... because in so many ways - those words put into perspective how I've been feeling this past week. Here - for those that aren't auditory... I'll put the words right here for you to read.

Part of me is the prodigal

Part of me is the other brother

But I think the heart of me

Is really somewhere between them

Some days I'm running wild

Some days we're reconciled

But I wonder all the while

Why you put up with me, when...

I wrestle most days

To find ways to do as I please

Wow, yep... that's me... I've been the "other brother" this week... feeling so cheated, hurt, and angry over the way that this baby thing is going. In some ways, it can be likened to the reaction of a two year old... the "I want it and I want it NOW" routine. It is a hard pill to swallow when you find out that your doctor made a bone-headed move in your opinion, and it cost you a full month's worth of treatment expenses.

Ultimately though, it's in God's plan - and I know that - intellectually, I've always known that... emotionally, not so much.

Why has it felt all week like I've been hanging on by a VERY thin thread? Because I've been fighting with my two sides... I've been trying so desperately to take control over this whole mess and somehow fit that into my faith. It doesn't work that way though - and I'm learning that. Just remember that we are all flawed and some days we struggle more than others.

Throughout the weekend though - a theme kept coming up - over and over... the one thing that I kept thinking about was the fact that it is so incredibly painful for me to be working in the nursery (2 year old class) at church every Sunday. That brings up emotional issues that really - NO Christian woman would be proud to admit. Feelings of jealousy, failure, and just general agony were involved the entire time. Now, that being said - the time with the kids has always been fun... I dearly love the kids... but the picking up and dropping off is hard. It's hard to see people bringing their children and picking them up knowing that you don't have anyone to pick up or drop off. It might be irrational to some of you, but it is a real thing.


I sort of talked over this issue with John, Renee's husband (K - who is on our church staff), and Renee... and then emailed our Pastor, Kevin, to let him know my thoughts and ask for his guidance and help. I don't want to quit, but I feel like I have to do it for a time right now. I don't feel like me torturing myself each week is the way for me to grow closer to God during a time when I desperately need him. (If I could think of a more desperate word than desperate - I'd use it here!)

So, I've asked Kevin to help me fill some other critical need on Sunday mornings outside of the nursery - but until that time I'll stay where I am... because I don't want to leave them in a bind, and I want to serve our church. I need to be doing something to help my church family - but at the same time it needs to be healthy for me... so I'll give updates on that as I get there.

Ironically, this song was the next one on the iPod yesterday morning - and I fell in love with it too. Stop and listen to this one as well... click play... close your eyes... and let the words take you where ever you need to go.

I Need You To Love...

Once again for those of you who are not auditory learners - here are the first few words of the song.

Why? Why are you still here with me?

Didn’t you see what I’ve done?

In my shame I want to run,

And hide myself.

Yeah, but it’s here I see the truth,

I don’t deserve you.

But I need you to love me,

And I, I won’t keep my heart from you this time.

And I’ll stop this pretending that I can,

Somehow deserve what I already have

I need you to love me

I can't tell you the untold number of times that I've felt like that over the last week - I mean honestly - why would God stand by someone so weak that their faith and emotions falter so easily over one failed month of fertility treatments?

I guess in reality - it's the same thing as asking your parent that question after you've done something really bone-headed, like sneaking out of the house... no, I never did that!

More than that though - I really DO need God to love me right now, and help me through this... it is the hardest thing I've ever done - and easily the most painful. Never during my weight loss surgery process or struggle did I ever truly need his grace and love as much as I do with this one...

I guess that is the fundamental difference between the journey to having my body be ready for such an undertaking and moving into the portion of the journey when it is time to start focusing on that. It also has a lot to do with the crazy doctors at the beginning of the weight loss surgery journey telling me how EASY it would be to lose weight and fix everything.

I'm here to tell you, weight loss surgery has certainly put my body in a FAR better place than it was before, BUT it is not a cure-all. The only miracles out there are the ones that God provides. And right now, I need him to love me... love me enough to hold my hand until he can provide me with the miracle of motherhood.

10 Years, Really?

Did anyone else realize that it has been 10 years since Columbine? I had no idea until I saw this article pop up - and I distinctly remember watching that on the news while I was in college in a reaction not unlike the way I reacted to the September 11th attacks or when the Aggie Bonfire collapsed... ironically that 10 year anniversary happens on November 18th - which I didn't realize either! I call those moments "flash bulb" memories - you know the ones that you distinctly remember exactly where you were or what you were doing when you heard the news. Things that will be etched in your memory for the rest of your life.

I'll never forget how I felt at each of those moments, and how heart broken I felt each time.

In other random news - one of my good friends "Sugar Mommy" (also known as one of my MANY friends named Jenn) has decided to do something to help start a prayer campaign for MckMama's son, Stellan, who is having heart surgery tomorrow. The basics are that she wants everyone to wear stripes... specifically orange stripes... but click over there and read more about what she's doing.

Welcome

To all of you popping over from We Are That Family - WELCOME to Thoughts By Kim! I am so happy to see all of you, and hope that you'll stick around to see how our infertility journey turns out... and hopefully see it turn into a beautiful healthy baby!

I am currently in the process of going through all of my posts - like almost 900 of them and adding tags... so that you can easily get to the information that interests you... and hop on aboard to read my daily journey if you so choose. I do hope that you'll stick around because I love making new friends...

I highly recommend Google Reader so that it is easy to keep up with blog friends, but that is just my secret - by all means do whatever works best for you and your own organizational style.

Once again... welcome! To those waiting for my post that I promised this morning - give me another day to get it written. I fell apart at church this morning and am pretty emotionally drained tonight. I started crying in the worship portion of the service, and didn't stop until the closing prayer - crazy! I did, however, feel that I made some progress with this mess... and have started the ball rolling on the decision that I made... I know - I hate it when people do that to me too, but just know that it has something to do with my spiritual gifts and chosen service ministry for our church.

House 1, Me 0

This weekend so far has been all about helping my best friend and her husband with their painting and move into their first home. It has also been the weekend that we've gotten over 5 inches of rain! I should have dumped the rain gauge on Friday night, but I didn't... so all I know is we've gotten at least 5 inches.... because the thing is full.

Anyway, we went and helped them Friday night paint their bedroom the most amazing smokey blue color... and laughed so much... this couple is so much fun, and we truly are blessed to know them and have them in our lives.

Yesterday, I got up early to make my famous chicken spaghetti... look back at Q&A Wednesday this week for a link to the recipe... just so that they'd have something at the house they could eat during all of this fun painting.

Then set off to get in on the painting fun myself. I had NO idea how much work it really is... but the project is painting their entire house... which they've been working on since Thursday! It's getting close to being finished.

I was able to help paint in their daughter's room... a lovely shade of faint lavender... which is a Disney color called Glass Slipper - which of course "L" knows and is happy to inform you. Then I helped paint the upstairs hallway... which is a lovely sort of tuscan brown that is going in almost all of the house.

My job in all of this was the cutting in... you know the painting around doorways, electrical plugs... the detailed stuff you can't get with the roller. I LOVED it... I can't think of anything that I've done in a while that I enjoyed more. I even went to sleep dreaming of painting my kitchen... and the other couple of areas of our house that I've wanted to paint. Maybe I'll get around to it soon.

I also as we were falling asleep asked John if I could paint the porch railings when we put them in... ya'll - I've found an illness.

I missed out on the Girls Night Out that I was planning on going to, but I just couldn't swing it -I needed to just sit and be still... which in the course of talking with Renee's husband while painting... and allowing myself to sort of be still in the moment - I've made a decision... that I'll tell you about later today in another post.

This morning, however, I'm in desperate need of a Starbucks... and am acutely aware of every muscle in my back... I guess I've never used them before - but WOW! Now we're off to church - see ya back around here later!

Favorite Friday

(I totally made that!! I'm so proud...)

Lets face it - right now... I'm hard up for topics... or at least ones that aren't painful to write... and probably equally painful to read...

So my little brain started thinking... and I'm working on another feature similar to this... because well - it's fun to be able to showcase some of my blog friends! I think each blog I read is FANTASTIC and I want to give you all the opportunity to check out the stories of others that I think are interesting.

Thus the idea for Friday Favorites was born... the concept is that you each look through your posts for the week and decide on one favorite that you want to link up and share with the class.

There really aren't any rules on what posts count - because honestly - the blogs that I read are each special in their own right, and have very different themes... from Mommy blogs, Christian Women blogs, Weight Loss Surgery blogs to Infertility blogs... all of us have a unique story to tell...

So, read through your posts... and see what you find to be your Friday Favorite... I'll link mine to get us started...

The only thing I ask in return is that you consider putting up a post on your own blog linking back to our fun list of posts - so that we can share the good stories, advice, and inspiration... with as many people as possible.

Sprouts

Shortly before the phone call that once again rattled my bubble again...

(Go here to read about that one... and here if you didn't read the first part of the week's news)

We happened to look out at the garden while letting to dogs out - and we had SPROUTS! So what did I do... I had to take pictures of our little seedlings coming out...

Behold... our wonderful bounty from nature...

We have these little piles of the soil that are about to show us the beginnings of our green beans... this was after a little help from John uncovering the sprout. (Our Zucchini is doing the same thing.)

We have corn! These are starting to pop through the soil too.

All of our cucumbers are starting to show... which I'm still not sure what we are going to do with some of these veggies - I guess it's about growing things in the dirt more than eating them?

And finally, these are what caught my attention from across the yard... radishes... which have zero chance of crossing my lips... but they sure are neat to see a line of them growing!

My strawberry hopes have made way for us to plant a cantaloupe instead. So John is buying that plant today and will probably get it planted today - if it doesn't rain to much... or later this weekend when the rain subsides.