Saturday, December 31, 2011

Verse for the New Year

Every year I pray and ask the Lord to give me one word to focus on through the year and one verse.  Although I don't have the word, I am happy to say that I have the verse!


"Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See I am doing a new thing! Now it spring up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland." Isaiah 43:18-20


I. Love. That. 

This year has been filled with some yucky unexpected stuff and though the Lord turned it all around for His glory, it was tough going through it.  I'm not sure what this year holds, good or bad or indifferent. I can plan, set goals, make my agenda, and organize all I want. However, in the end it really only matters if what I want lines up with what God wants.  

This year I want:
  • More of Jesus
  • Laser like focus on the things that truly matter
  • My family members to grow deeper in their relationships with the Lord
  • My family to never doubt how much they are each loved
  • New opportunities to serve the Lord
I can't tell you the last time I was so excited to start a new year! Up until last night, when the Lord gave me a dream (I will share later) and my verse for the year, I was not anticipating a great year.  Now I cannot wait to see the things God has in store and I look forward to 2012 with a whole new anticipation! 

Happy New Year!! May it be filled with Gods grace, mercy, and love! :o) 


Friday, December 30, 2011

20 Reflection Questions on 2011

One of my favorite websites for inspiration is   (In)Courage.  I have prayer time every morning at work, I work in a ministry, and that is one of the places a visit each morning. Today there was a post with 20 questions for reflecting the New Year and I thought I would post my answers here: 



20 Questions for a New Year’s Eve Reflection

1. What was the single best thing that happened this past year? This year, though not the best year, has held many wonderful things. If I had to choose one, I would say that my nephew Luke's miraculous recovery. 
2. What was the single most challenging thing that happened? My husband and I brought our third homeschool graduate to college. Even though she was the third to go to college, it was still challenging. She was 17 years old, because she graduated a year early and she was 12 hours away. However, she has done amazing and looking back, I'm glad that we allowed her to go. 
3. What was an unexpected joy this past year? The most unexpected joy was when the Board of Directors voted me in as the Executive Director of the Crisis Pregnancy Center where I work. 
4. What was an unexpected obstacle? My husband lost his job in June and though God has been faithful, it was not something we anticipated. 
5. Pick three words to describe 2011. Traumatic, Belief, Thankful
6. Pick three words your spouse would use to describe your 2011 (don’t ask them; guess based on how you think your spouse sees you). Prayerfull, Growth, Determined 
7. Pick three words your spouse would use to describe their 2011 (again, without asking). Humbling, Trust, Educational
8. What were the best books you read this year? A Woman and Her God, Beth Moore, 
9. With whom were your most valuable relationships? This year I would have to say most valualable relationships were with my husband, my children, my sister, and a few special friends. 
10. What was your biggest personal change from January to December of this past year? My biggest personal change was from being a stay at home homeschool mom to working full time. 
11. In what way(s) did you grow emotionally? I learned that I am a competant adult and I can succeed at things. I also learned that being a leader is not a bad thing, it is how God designed me. 
12. In what way(s) did you grow spiritually? I learned that no matter what man says, God always has the final say. I also learned that prayer is vital and that God truly knows me intimately. 
13. In what way(s) did you grow physically? This one is more difficult. I started jogging this spring, but then Luke's accident happened and life got totally sidetracked. In looking at this question and answering honestly, I did not grow physically this year, at least not in a good way. 
14. In what way(s) did you grow in your relationships with others? In all honesty between family, work, and being a full time student many of my relationships have taken a back seat. I am learning that I cannot 'do it all' and I also cannot 'have it all'. My focus has to be on what God has called me to do and I am blessed that my friends have continued to stand by me and love me any way. 
15. What was the most enjoyable part of your work (both professionally and at home)? The most enjoyable part of my work is helping people and ministering the love of God to them.  I also love training the volunteers and sharing what I am currently learning in my studies with them.  It is also wonderful to be able to pray with people and be open about my faith in Jesus. 
The most enjoyable part of my home is knowing that my husband has taken the responsibility of homeschooling our son and is doing a wonderful job! I also know that our home is filled with love, laughter, and that God is in the center of our lives. 
16. What was the most challenging part of your work (both professionally and at home)? The most challenging part of my work is when people can't, for one reason or another, move forward. I see many people who stay stuck in their circumstances and who don't walk in freedom of the Lord.  
My most challenging aspect of home is probably finances. However, God continues to be faithful and His provision is always greater then our need. 
17. What was your single biggest time waster in your life this past year? I have not had much down time this year, but if I had to pick a biggest time waster I think it would be worrying.  I tend to worry too much and trust too little. 
18. What was the best way you used your time this past year? Spending time each morning in prayer and praise to God.  I have found that when I do not turn to God first, my day does not go smoothly. Another best use of time has been continuing my education, even though it keeps me extremely busy.  I know that God has appointed it, so I will continue to pursue my Bachelors Degree in Psychology and Christian Counseling. 
19. What was biggest thing you learned this past year? God is truly faithful. I just need to always remember that, especially when money is tight. 
20. Create a phrase or statement that describes 2011 for you. Trusting God is all things. 

Wednesday, December 28, 2011

Primary Talk

Someone asked me the other day who I was going to vote for in the upcoming election. Not the Presidential election in November, but the primaries which are this month in New Hampshire.  I think for the first time in many election cycles, I have no clue who I am voting for. 


My husband is a huge Ron Paul fan, I'm not totally sold on him.


My first instinct was Baachman.


Then Cain.


Then Huntsman.


And now...


I have no idea.


I may very well go into the voting booth, close my eyes, hold my nose, and mark a candidate (yes, my small town still uses pencil and paper).  


It is sad, I know. Especially since I am informed on many of the issues and I have an interest in politics.  I think I have lost my faith in the whole system and I am more skeptical then ever about politicians. They will promise anything to get elected and then forget all they promised. 


I wonder how many other voters feel the same way as me? 



Tuesday, December 27, 2011

I'm going to a sleep clinic tonight. Apparently I snore and when I snore I have a tendency to stop breathing now and then. Of course I have no firsthand knowledge of this, since I'm sleeping but instead I am relying on my husbands testimony.  


Having never experienced a sleep clinic, I have little knowledge about what to expect. The doctor told me and I received a pamphlet, but I think it's one of those things that a person actually has to go through to understand. 


I'm a little nervous, especially since I sleep much better at home, even if I snore. 

Monday, December 26, 2011

Resolutions in the Making

I have a confession to make, I truly enjoy making New Years resolutions.  Yes, many of them go unresolved, but there is something magnificant about writing goals for the upcoming year. Maybe it's because the possiblities are endless, the year is new and fresh. Or maybe it's because I take the time to pray and think about and plan for the year ahead. I know that nothing truly magical happens from December 31st to January 1st, except for the changing of a calendar, which is not really magical. Yet, each year I find myself once again writing out resolutions.  


Although I already have some things in mind, I am going to wait till the New Year to publish them.  I will, however, share my goal for the week:

  • Seek the Lord daily for what He wants to accomplish through me this year.
That's it. That's the plan. 

How will I go about fulfilling the plan?

I am blessed to work in a ministry, so I will set aside time daily to seek the Lord.  The majority of the building I work in will be closed for Christmas break, so it will be quiet.  Me, my Bible, K-Love, coffee, and God. I am truly looking forward to this week! Please consider joining me and seek the Lord, in your own time, for what His plans for the coming year. Yes, God's plans and our plans are not always the same. Yet, God is a God of order and He is also relational and wants to be involved in our daily lives. Seek Him. Pray. Praise. Watch what He will do. 

Woman's Day

Outside my window...it is cold, the sky is grey, and snow is all around.  

I am thinking...about last year and about the year to come. 

I am thankful for...Jesus and how truly relational He is.  

From the kitchen...I have not been cooking, but my husband has been making wonderful dishes. Last night for Christmas dinner he made homemade pizza that was truly divine! 

I am wearing...purplish jogging pants, fuzzy socks, and a Houghton hoodie that my daughter got me for Christmas.   
I am remembering...my family in Connecticut.  

I am going...to bring my son Max to the airport. He will be heading to Delaware for five days to see his beautiful fiance'. 

I am reading…"Why You Do The Things You Do" - this is for on of my Christian Counseling classes. 


I am hoping….that people, especially in America, realize how truly blessed they are. 


On my mind…coffee. 

I am hearing...the pitter-patter of feet as the family is starting to wake up. 

Around the house...in the process of waking up for the day.  

Noticing that…getting older is truly not such a terrible thing. 

Tuesday, December 20, 2011

Long Time No Hear

I honestly cannot believe that I have not blogged since July! Wow! July! That is FIVE whole months!! A lot has happened in five months:


  • Luke is home and doing fabulous! He is a constant reminder of the fact that God always has the final say. Man can say, "no chance", but Gods voice is the only voice that matters. 
  • My 17 year old daughter headed off to college in New York and is currently home for Christmas break.
  • My 20 year old daughter is engaged and is marrying the love of her life on Memorial Day 2012.
  • In September I got voted as Executive Director of the Crisis Pregnancy Center where I work.
  • I am continuing my degree in Psychology with Liberty University Online. 
  • We are down to one goat and three bulls. 
  • My husband lost his job over the summer and has been homeschooling our 15 year old son.
I think that is all, but I am most likely missing some things.  

The main this is that the Lord has been so gracious and merciful to our family and I love Him more then ever! Many days I have no idea how we will make it, but the Lord always provides.  He is faithful and truly amazing!  

Hopefully I will get back to blogging on a regular basis, because I truly enjoy it. I do not have many readers, if any at all, but I still truly enjoy pouring my heart out through the keyboard.  

Many blessings to all who read this, may you have abundant peace and joy in Jesus!

Saturday, July 9, 2011

Update on Luke

I'm writing this post from inside Maine Medical Center. My nephew, Luke, was in a car accident 22 days ago and suffered traumatic brain injury.  Luke was life flighted to Maine Medical and at the time the doctors told his parents that he would not live, zero percent chance.  Then they told him that if Luke lived he would be one level above a vegetative state.  His parents did not accept what the doctors said, even if they were "neurological specialists" who had all the answers. I say that with complete and utter sarcasm. :o/  Luke's eyes are open, he moves all his extremities, he laughs (even though he has a trech), he moves his mouth to try to form words, and Luke is pushing through the barriers that the doctors said would not be overcome.  Luke is strong, his family is strong, and God is able to pull them through this. It is not always easy and Luke will have a long road ahead of him, but he has already beat the odds. He is an amazing kid with an amazingly strong family. 







Monday, July 4, 2011

Fourth of July

I am not a consistent blogger, I try to be but then life happens and blogging gets put on the back burner.  Today is the Fourth of July. It is a time when many people are out celebrating with family and friends. My nephew, Luke, loves the Fourth of July. He was home from the Army on leave and he wanted to have a big party at his parents land. He loves the land. I think he was going to head back to Germany on the 5th or 6th. Unfortunatly the car accident happend and now Luke is in Maine Medical with severe head trauma. Each day he gets stronger, that is certainly a praise but today is still a hard day.


I want to see Luke's smile. I want to hear his laugh. I want to see him do some goofy thing to his cousin Max, my son.  I want to hear his Army stories and what the plans are for his future.  


I want Luke back.


As an aunt, I am some what on the periphary. I'm close enough to the situation to be affected but yet far enough to feel out of the loop. I love Luke with all my heart. I used to tell him, and still do, that he is one of my favorites. He is very near and dear to my heart.


On this Fourth of July, when you are out celebrating with family and friends please remember to pray for Luke and his family. 

Sunday, June 19, 2011

Whose Report Do you Believe?

I know it has been months since I updated this blog, so no one is going to read it but yet I want to write. I want to write to get things out. I want to write so I can clear my head. I want to write so when I look back this will not just seem like a dream but I will know it was real.


My 21 year old nephew, Luke, was involved in a serious car accident early Friday morning.  He was airlifted to Maine Medical Trauma Center. He is currently in the ICU with severe head trauma and other injuries, but the brain trauma is the one they are most concerned with.  


I understand the gravity of the situaton, but I also understand that God is in control of all things.  This did not take Him by surprise, even though that may be hard accept.  I have to believe that He is holding Luke, even now, in the very palm of His hand.  Luke's fate is not a game, by a puppetmaster who is distant and unconcerned.  Luke's fate is not just up to chance.  I know everyone is entitled to their beliefs or unbeliefs, but I choose to believe the God of the Bible! I choose to believe that no matter the outcome, God is still in control.  He knows every single detail of our lives, before it even happens.  I believe that He loves Luke, more then we could ever know. I believe this breaks His heart. 


I don't know what is going to happen, but I know that God real.


I know that God is in control


I know that God has not turned his back on Luke.


I know that God loves Luke.


I know that God's mercy, grace, and love are extended to everyone.


If you read this, please pray for Luke and for his family. 

Saturday, April 30, 2011

Planting Onions

Today I planted onions at a local farm. It is neat, because I will be planting and helping around the farm for animal feed and vegetables.

Bartering.

Bartering is not something you usually here about any more, but I'm glad the farmer agreed to it. It is a simple premise, and one that helps out both parties.



Friday, April 29, 2011

Exercise

One goal that I have had for several years, but never attained was including more exercise into my life. One of the ways I wanted to do that was to start jogging.  There was always something standing in the way, and I believe that thing was fear.

My father died of a heart attack at age 42.

What if the same thing happened to me?

So, I waited.

I delayed.

I made excuses.

I'm happy to say that as of this writing I have been jogging/ walking for at least a mile, three times a week.

One day I went for it.

I found a semi flat place, remember I live in the White Mountains of New Hampshire.

I clocked a half a mile and then turned the van around to my starting point and parked.

It was much easier then I anticipated, and in all honesty the more I do it the better I feel.  Yesterday I wore a size 14, something that I have not done in years.

Although losing weight is a wonderful bonus, I truly want to feel good.

At 43 years old, I still have a lot of life ahead of me. Unless of course the Lord decides to take me home early.  If He doesn't, then I want to be healthy. I want to be able to move.

If you are reading this and you have given up on exercise, I am telling you don't. It is never too late to start moving.

It may be slow going, that's okay. You may get sore, that's okay.  Move through it. One of my days I was so stiff and sore. I took a day off, but then got right back out there and moved through the pain. I am so glad that I did!

Exercise is good, it is what our bodies are designed for.

Thursday, April 28, 2011

Update

It has been awhile since I have blogged. It is not that I have nothing to say, but rather I have been too busy to post.
  • Homeschooling has been intensive with my 15 year old son. In some ways homeschooling one child is more challenging then homeschooling four.
  • Work has been busy, as we are preparing for the Banquet.
  • College has been intense, to say the least. I know have withdrawn from my math class, which has positives and negatives. The main positive is that it will not affect my grade point average. The main negative is that I have to take it again. However, when I take it again I am not going to do it online but rather in a classroom.
  • Life. Life in general has been busy. Whoever said that when the kids grow older you have more time, do not have the same family dynamics that I do. 


Wednesday, March 16, 2011

Daniel Fast - Days 6,7,8

When you have a problem where to you go?

Do you talk to your husband?

Talk to a friend?

Go to your Pastor?

Internalize the problem?

Do all of the above at one time or another?

Daniel was told that the king was going to kill all the 'wise men' in the country. The king had a disturbing dream and wanted someone to not only interpret the dream, but to tell them the dream.  The wise men told him that only God could tell dreams and the king got perturbed and ordered their death. When word got back to Daniel (who was a wise man) he immediately had his friends pray.  They sought the Lord until He revealed the dream, which was in the middle of night. Then Daniel praised God for revealing the answer. In the end he went to the king and told him the dream and the interpretation.

Lets recap:

1.) Daniel asked godly people to pray.

2.) They prayed diligently until the answer was given.

3.) They accepted the answer.

4.) They praised god for revealing the truth.

5.) Went and did what God said. 

That should be a model of what we do when we face a crisis. The king was not messing around, he had every intention of killing the wise men and Daniel knew it! Instead of going and trying to convince the king to change his mind, he sought the Only One that could possibly have the answer. Once the answer was revealed he did not question it, he went and faced the king. Can you imagine having that much confidence in what God says, knowing that lives (including your own) are in your hands?  I wonder if he went in trembling or if he went in with confidence? My guess is that he went in with confidence and boldness.

How about you?

Do you approach the Lord with boldness and confidence?

Are you so in tune to the the voice of the Lord that you know when and what He is speaking?

Are you surrounding yourself with godly people who can pray for you in your time of need?


Friday, March 11, 2011

The more I seek you/My Beloved (Day 5 - Daniel Fast )




I love both of these songs and they express my feelings completely.

Prayers for Japan

My prayers today are for those affected by the earthquake and tsunami in Japan. 

Lord, my heart is grieved today. I'm saddened by the loss of life. I'm saddened for those who are grieving over their loved ones. I pray that You would give those who are searching for their loved ones grace and mercy. I pray for the workers who are digging out the rumble and searching for bodies, that you Lord would give them wisdom from on High. 

I know that nothing happens that does not first go through your hands, so God I know you are in control.  It is so hard to fathom all the destruction, pain, hurt, fear, and worry. But, You God are there, even in the midst of all the chaos.  I pray for that you would send those who know You to the area. I pray that through all of this madness, You would be found.  God nothing compares to knowing You, so I pray for revelation for those who are looking for You. We all want answers, and You are Only answer we need. 

Lord, I pray for the missionaries that are serving in the area. God please protect them with you mighty hand. I pray that they would be given strength, strength that is above what they ever experienced. I pray that they would be your hands and feet. That they would show the love the Christ in their serving.  

Even though it is hard to fathom, I trust in You. I pray Lord that as the world watches, that prayers would be lifted up and that You would do a mighty work.

In Jesus name I pray, Amen.  

Thursday, March 10, 2011

Daniel Fast - Day 3 & 4

I'm posting day 3 & 4 together, because I did not have time to post last night.

As I am getting into this fast I find that I'm not really having time for the Lord. You know that one on One time that is essential to a fast.  I'm praying a lot more, but I'm really not digging into the Word like I intended to do. Why is that? 

One word... Busyness 

How can I possibly be too busy to sit with the King of King and Lord of Lords and read His Word? 

I don't know.

Before the fast, I was pretty diligent about seeking his face but since Monday it has been difficult.

Some would say that it's the enemy, but honestly I think it is just plain old self. 

I tend to be a tad bit rebellious (I know it's hard to believe) but it is true. When I have to do something I don't want to do it. 

When I don't have to do something then what do I do? 

I do it!!

The Lord is showing me little by little that my Spirit and my flesh are divided. They are warring with each other over what is right. 

If the flesh wins out then this fast will be for nothing, but if the Spirit wins out then it will be to God's glory! 

What do I want?

I want to eat whatever I want. 

I want to watch whatever I want.

I want to do whatever I want.

What does God want?

God wants all of me, not just a tiny part.

God wants me to come to Him and He will give me rest.

God wants me to cast my cares upon Him.

God wants me to be yoked with Him, doing His will.


" Take My yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light." Matthew 11:29-30

Reading that verse through quickly, one might determine that the yoke is 'mine' (the persons). However that would be false. Looking over it more closely the word "My" refers to Jesus/God, not self but Gods yoke. 

Does that mean God wants to burden us with His things? No! He wants us to take His yoke (His plans, purposes, callings, ect..) upon us and He will give us rest. 

It is not about self, it is all about God! 

The further I get in the fast, even though I still struggle, that is the main theme I am learning. 

I encourage you today to take Gods yoke upon you and allow Him to use you for His glory. It may not always be easy, but He promises to be there and to give you rest. 

Tuesday, March 8, 2011

Day 2

I would love to say that I woke up feeling great this morning and this 'fast' is easy, but that would be a lie. I woke up with a terrible headache! Though I'm allowing myself 2 cups of coffee a day, I have no doubt it was from lack of caffeine. As I sought the Lord, I thought the headache would subside but I was wrong. Then I started to feel sick, and since I had an important meeting for work I had to get it together. I ended up eating one piece of toast, some strawberries, and drinking some water with lemon. After a little while I felt much better and was able to proceed with the day.

After my meeting I bought a small coffee and a little tiny tub of cantaloupe. I had that for lunch. Believe it or not I felt really good today, once I got over the initial morning issues. Tonight I'm going grocery shopping, so I'll be prepared for the week. 

Since the fast is not about food, but about meeting with God I want to share a few things that I've learned:

* God wants all of me, not a small part in a compartment, but every single part.

* God wants me to 'wear a path to Him'. Not just go to Him when I need something, but to continually seek His face.

That is really it!! :o) Not a lot of words, but for me it is a lot of meat to chew on. 

Monday, March 7, 2011

Day 1

Today is the first day of my 21 day fast and wouldn't you know that I woke up in the middle of night starving! I never wake up hungry, but I guess that's how Satan wants to play it. I prayed for strength for the coming days. I prayed for my family. I prayed for my job. I prayed for my church. I prayed that God would search me and expose any area of sin, known or unknown, in my life.  

I have not had a chance to get to the grocery store, but I know I have some strawberries, oranges, lemons (for my water), and frozen vegetables. 

Strawberries sound good this morning, so I'll have some of them with lemon water. 

Once the weather clears up, I plan to go to the store. 

Sunday, March 6, 2011

21 Day Fast

Have you ever tried to run from something you know the Lord is calling you to do?

Have you ever tried really hard to ignore it?

I have, and I'm done.

I'm done ignoring the voice of the Lord.

I'm done second guessing.

I'm ready.

Ready for what?

Ready to fast for 21 days.

Not an all out fast, but a Daniel fast for at least the first week. Then I think it will a juice fast for a week and then back to a Daniel fast for the third. I'm not exactly sure of the details, but I know for a fact (or a fast, LOL) that I am finally stepping out and obeying the Lord.

My first week will be spent in prayer for my family.

My second week will be spent in prayer for my church and the church as a whole.

My third week has yet to be determined, but I am confident God will reveal it to me.

I have never fasted for more then a couple of days. It seems like the closer I get to my fasting date (tomorrow) the hungrier I become!

On the flip side of that, the closer I get to my fasting date the hungrier I become for the Word of God!

I am looking forward to it, in a weird kind of way.

If you think of me during the 21 days, please pray for me.

Pray that the Lord will give me strength.

Pray that the Lord will reveal things to me.

Pray that strongholds are broken.

Pray that refreshing will come.


Monday, February 28, 2011

Happy 17th Birthday to My Shannon

Seventeen years ago today I gave birth to a bright eyed baby, that seemed to know all the secrets of the world. Of all my children, she was the most alert and appeared ready to take on anything that came her way. Throughout the years she has made me smile, made my heart leap for joy, challenged, encouraged, brought me to my knees before my Savior, and give me more love then I ever deserve. It has been amazing watching her grow into a confident godly woman and I am truly humbled to be a part of her life.  She is at the point in her life where literally, anything is possible for her. This fall she heads off to college to pursue a degree in art. It will be hard to see her go, but I am thrilled that she has the opportunity.

All that being said, Happy Birthday Shannon!! You are an amazing young woman and I look forward to seeing what the Lord has in store for your life. I love you very much!!! :o)

Tuesday, February 8, 2011

Life After Homeschooling

In the end of spring last year, I went through a time of reassessing my life.  Having been a homeschooling stay at home mom for over 20 years, I was seeing the fruits of my labor come to a close.  Two of my four 'students' had graduated, another was right around the corner, and the fourth within 4 more years.  It really took a lot of introspection as I wrestled with what to do with the rest of my life. I'm only 43, and to some young pups out there it may seem old but it really is not.  I still have a lot let in life to do, and Lord willing I'll have time to do it! ;o) 

As I thought about what the next stage of my life would be, I was drawn into the presence of God like never before.  He graciously and lovingly revealed to me part of His plan for me. The plan that I always envisioned was heading back to college to finish my degree in education.  The plan that He had for me was different.  If you follow this blog at all, you know that I am currently enrolled as a college student and Liberty University Online. My major is Christian Counseling, but I think I'm going to change it to Psychology with a minor in Christian Counseling.  

That decision led to another door opening, one that I have been praying for but did not expect to open so soon. A couple of months ago I was hired as the Client Service Director for a local Care Net facility. I volunteered there for almost 2 years, so this was a natural progression. I can honestly say that I love my job! If someone told me last spring that this is where I be, less a year later I wouldn't of believed them. God is good! He knows what He has called us to and He knows how to get us there. 

I share this only to let other homeschool mothers know, there is life after homeschooling! :o)  Your life will look different then mine, and that's okay! I'm not totally done homeschooling, but yet God has opened other avenues along with that. Yes, it is hard at times. Yes, I'm very busy. Yes, I get little sleep. The greatest thing is that I know I'm exactly where God wants me to be. It certainly is an exciting time! :o)

Sunday, February 6, 2011

College Update

Going back to college at age 43, is proving itself to be a very challenging thing.  Last semester I did pretty good, I actually made the Deans List!! :o) This semester is turning into something totally different, I highly doubt there will be any list for me. 

The classes I'm currently enrolled in are:

English 101 (I honestly should of taken English 100, even though I passed the proficiency exam.)

Math 100 (Even though this is the first Math a student can take, it is very difficult for me. I am truly finding out way M-A-T-H is a four-letter word!)

Introduction to Christian Counseling (This is the only class this semester that I am getting good grades in. I guess it's a good thing considering Counseling/Psychology is my major.)

Introduction to Sociology (I have not started this yet, but I'm hopeful that I will like it and do well in it.)

The homework this semester seems to be more then last semester and it also seems that the expectations of the professors is higher.  I will muddle through and Lord willing not fail the classes and have to do them all over again. 

Have you gone back to school? What classes have you taken? Did you find them easy or difficult? Did you have enough time to study, work, and have a semblance of a life? Please answer....this inquiring mind really wants to know! 

Saturday, February 5, 2011

To Do List

My To Do List:

*English Test

* Start working on my first essay, which is due next week.

* Read a counseling book, I have a 6 page paper due in 2 weeks.

* Wash the pile of dishes currently sitting in my sink.

* Laundry, laundry, and in case you missed it...Laundry

* Make a sign up sheet for the Winer Carnival

* Make posters for the Winter Carnival (my son is going to make this on his computer and send me a file)

* Clean the cow barn, since the weather is pretty good.

* Go get hay and shavings for the animals.




Wednesday, January 12, 2011

Schedule

Next week I start back up with school again. I'm excited to start another semester, but a little nervous due to the amount of work.  Last semester I had 4  classes, 2 at one time for 8 weeks. This semester I start off with 3 classes for 8 weeks, and then 2 for 8 weeks.  I also am working part time as well as homeschooling.  Things will be busy.  

I have been pondering my schedule and this is what I have come up with:

6:00 - 7:00 Get up, coffee, Bible reading and prayer (this is essential for the days I will be having), and possibly a shower. 

8:00 - 9:30  Work on my school assignments. 

9:30 - 10:30 Feed animals, have breakfast, get ready for the day, and head to work.

10:30 - 3:30 Work

3:30 - 4:00 Get home and take my daughter to her job.

4:00 - 4:30  Chill out a little 

4:30 - 5:45 School with my son.

5:45 - 6:00 Get my daughter from work and pick up animal needed animal feed.

6:00-7:00  School with my son and dinner time

7:00 - 8:00 Hopefully get to spend time with my hubby, chatting about the day over coffee.

8:00 - 8:30 Get school work ready for my son, for him to do during the day.

8:30 - 10:00 My school work or any work related reading or papers. 

10:00 Bed

I have off every Friday, so that will be a full day of homeschooling and I will work on any writing assignments that are due for Sunday.  Saturday will be spent cleaning, spending time with family, and finishing up school work.
Sunday will be a literal day of rest.  

If you think of me over the next 8 weeks in particular, please pray that Lord will give me strength. 

Saturday, January 8, 2011

Review of 2010

2011 is already here!! I honestly cannot believe another year has come and gone. Where exactly does the time go? 2010 was an interesting year, but honestly I'm glad it is behind me. There was sickness , realizing that everyone has a story , kittens, calves , forgiveness, homeschool graduation , daughter headed to college , my son headed back to college , I started taking college classes , we had a visitor , engagement, and life changes.  

Looking over all the links has been an interesting experience. It made me realize  that 2010 was not such a bad year at all! There was some bad times, but there were also many good times!! :o) I look forward to 2011 and what the year will bring. 

Friday, January 7, 2011

I'm currently listening to Rush Limbaugh, and he is speaking about the Health Care Reform Bill. I just heard the President speaking to a lady whose 100 year old mother needed a pace maker, but the doctor thought her mother was too old. Not too out of shape, but too old. The woman asked the President what he thought about it, he basically said that she should not get the pace maker but instead "take a pill".  

Wow!!

I hope and pray that this massive government overhaul gets repelled.