Saturday, March 28, 2009

Locks of Love

Yesterday - Friday, March 27 I donated over 10 inches of my hair to Locks of Love. I did this in HONOR of my mom. As a cancer surviver she went through treatment that caused hair loss. I was so young (5) that I don't remember this part of my life. However, we do have a picture of my mom in a wig that she wore.

BEFORE:


AFTER:


THE NEXT DAY:

Tuesday, March 24, 2009

My current book

Right now I'm reading a faith based book "The Power of a Positive Woman"by Karol Ladd. I've enjoyed the first two chapters, so far. Some things that make me think:

"We don't have to be perfect, because we have a perfect GOD who can use even our imperfections in an eternal, powerful, and positive way."

"Is GOD my stronghold, or am I depending on my own strength and power to live my life?"

"If I want to be a positive woman, I must look DAILY to my Heavenly Father for strength, support, and direction.

Psalm 27:14 says "Wait for the LORD; be strong and take heart and wait for the LORD.

Sometimes I don't feel like waiting...I think that if I get busy on a goal that it will occur on my time. I need to remember that it's on God time. Sometimes waiting on the LORD can be the hardest thing to do!

I'm working though some negative vibes at work. Too many negative people surround me. I'm hoping I'll have some helpful ways to deal with this negativity and not allow it to bring me down. My good friend Starla was in my corner today when I called her needing a pep talk. She was reaffirming for me. I love her dearly for all of her wonderful skills. I will use her hint of just saying "GOD Bless, __________" (insert negative person's name) when I'm feeling suffocated by the negativity.

A few more prayers....former co-worker, Marsha, still sleeping though her last few days. Mr. Jay Sharp - on of my favorite Jr. High science teachers passed away last Friday. He always showed respect to his students by calling us Miss (last name) or Mr. (last name). He had a great smile, laugh, and really knew his science! Maren Mapp - a 4-H friend from childhood - and a teacher who also taught in the Janesville School District - has been diagnosed with breast cancer. She is my age. Finally, Zack Zdrale - brother of a dear friend - had a tumor removed recently. He is an amazing artist. Look him up. Prayers for all, their families, and loved ones!

Praise the LORD -

Jenna's lazy eye is improving. Still need to patch, but no surgery!
Jackson's doing great with his night-time issues.
Joe has started track. I'm glad to see him have an interest in this area.
Jeff is doing well with his school work.
I love my class of 4th grader. I really love going to work EVERY day!
We have dear friends and family.
My parents will be coming out next week for our crazy events on Thursday....Jenna's birthday, Joe's track meet, and Jack's special school district choir concert. They will be able to see Jack and Jenna's Easter Program at church - and we'll be able to caravan back to WI for spring break! YEAH

Great Friend, Dani and hubby Dan, had a baby boy today - Ezra! He is also welcomed by big sister Eden!

So many things to be thankful for! I appreciate my wonderful MOM in law for reminding me of the many blessings I have in my life! I appreciate her kind words. (But don't know where her post ended up?!?!?!)

Be Positive!

Tuesday, March 10, 2009

Interestingly enough

I am not so good about blogging. I don't know if it's because our life is simple - but busy. We are rather routine in our daily lives. Wake up - get the kids up - breakfast and out the door at 7 AM. Jeff takes Jack and Jenna to school (before/after care) - Joe takes the bus to Middle School. When they leave I'm usually finishing getting ready for my day. I get to school and do my thing....after school is meetings, piano lessons, singing groups, Jeff's night class, correcting.....each week is the same. I feel as if we don't lead exciting "blog worthy" lives. I'm ok with that. Who needs trama. I was reminded tonight by a dear friend that there are a lot of other people in my life who are dealing with big issues. I should be glad it's not me!

Our biggest issue the past few weeks has been to work on the behavior of our kids lately. Our teen was getting a bit mouthy and lazy with his saxophone practice. It's amazing what positive attitude you can get by taking away a computer. This evening as I was tucking Jack into bed - Joe came and told Jack what a great brother he was. Jack and were both happily shocked by Joe's affection.

Later, as I was tucking Joe in, I asked Joe about it. He said it was his new thing....tell something nice if someone says something unkind to you. I asked what unkind thing Jack had said...Joe replied "Oh, nothing, I just wanted to try it out."

Just this past week at church we were learning about those random acts of kindness. I try to teach that to my kids - no road rage - paying for a pie for guys from our church who were having bible study at a local restaurant we go to (when Jeff is at night class) - putting money in the salvation army kettle. What other things can be done? How else can you show your kids random acts of kindness.

I like how the parents on "Jon and Kate Plus 8" (tv show) take time to have one day with a child - just the parents and child....doing something the child wants to do. I know I do that with Jenna - but what about the boys? Lots to think about.

In closing, I'm praying for my friend and former co-worker at Adams School in Janesville, WI. She is battling the last few days of colon cancer. She will soon be welcomed by Jesus into heaven. My prayers are with her family. Godspeed, Marsha!