Turn Left Past Yonder

Alabama...

2007-06-04T19:38:00.000-07:00

Alaska, Arizona, Arkana...wait, I went too far...Alabama was all I needed. Yes, I went there this past weekend to met Daron and his boys and while I was there I met his mom, dad, stepmom, sister, bro-in-law, their two kids, and his friends from church. Whew! I'm surprised I remembered everyone...at least I hope I did.

As most of you know, I was a little apprehensive about meeting his boys...not really with a fear that they wouldn't like me or me them, but you never know how children are going to respond, but as soon as I came in the door they broke the ice rather well with "Daddy! She is taller than you!!!" To which Daron responded that I only appear taller because I have longer legs...we are actually about the same height. But those boys are so cute and well behaved...much praise to their daddy for raising 'em right! Go, Daron! :)

Anyway, what was I saying? Oh, yes, I had a really nice, great, wonderful, awesome...oh, oh, yes, um, time with all of them. The drive took me about 5.5 hours and, of course, on the way I gained an hour and lost it on the way home...funny how that works! So, I got there around 9ish and Daron was kind enough to meet me at Burger King so I could follow him to the hotel room to unload my stuff before we headed over to his place. Well, the drive to the hotel took a little longer than I expected and I think Tara kept thinking I would tell her I had to go (on the phone), but I just kept talking. You see, they live in one town and I was staying in the neighboring town and just my luck, on the other side of the neighboring town. Once again, Daron, was nice enough to have scoped out the hotel's location before I arrived so he could take me straight to it. It was a Microtel Inn...I have a fondness for them...they are usually relatively inexpensive and they have all been pretty nice and clean. And, the part i like the most is that all the rooms share an interior corridor which is much safer for a woman (or anyone) traveling by themselves than one with exposed exterior doors. I told Daron about this and he said it was a good point. The room was small, but neat, clean and had ice cold air!

Okay, I keep getting off the subject...I know you could all care less about my hotel room...I can hear everyone in the background chanting "Tell us! Tell us! Tell us!"...okay, so, Daron is a really great guy and I like him a WHOLE LOT!!!! :) And I'm pretty sure he likes me too...well, I know he does...and I think his kids like me and well, everyone just likes everyone! That is a GOOD thing! I am so funny because I cannot think of anything else to put on here...so, if you have questions, please feel free to ask and I will post the questions along with the responses...really, I will!

I guess I can say that there is good chemistry between us and we are a lot alike and yet different. Our lives have been very different from each others, but we've both learned a lot from the past and don't want to be "repeat offenders" so to speak...

Well, that's all for now! Any questions?

My Wonderful Weekend :)

2007-05-30T14:26:00.000-07:00

Wow, where do I begin? Really, I am unsure. Many of you have been waiting for this update, I am sure and I want to make sure I cover all my bases so to speak. Well, first off, thanks to all of you who checked up on me with text messages and phone calls, you are the kind of friends I know I can always rely on!

If I could use one word to describe my weekend, I would have to say “amazing”. This person who has come into my life is like no one else I’ve ever had a relationship with. Someone who cares about me for me and is not trying to change me…someone who makes me laugh and is as crazy as I am (yes, that’s a good thing)…someone who has a great outlook on life and has a big heart. Wow, God is good…

I am looking forward to learning more and more about him and his family. I am going there to meet them this weekend and I am scared and excited, but I know everything will be fine because God has His hands on this, that I can say without a doubt.

This may seem vague, but I will share more as time goes on…besides I’ve got to keep you in suspense…that’s what great writers do!

And they call it progress...

2007-05-15T14:39:00.000-07:00

Wow, I am so amazed at all God has done in my life in just the last two days...makes me want to live smack dab in the middle of His will all the time...it's when I'm there I am truly happy! It all actually started with my friend Teresa's post about the Fear of God...it got me thinking about where I am in the scheme of things. Since I have returned to Florida my life has literally gone full circle. Upon arriving home I found it necessary to seek shelter somewhere aside from my parents' house and in that move alone I have become a different person. Determination is something I've never really stuck with, but this time it has been different. A lot of things have been different in my life. I went through a period of rebellion after moving out, but I have escaped from that now and have come back to the place I feel I left such a long time ago...the moment I stepped into the Penske moving truck to leave here a little over two years ago to begin my "new life" which ended up being such a hardship. I have taken time to reflect about what those two years of my life add up to.

Texas taught me that I can manage without my friends and family even if I don't always like it. Texas taught me that I don't like hospitals, doctors, dentist and giving blood. Texas taught me that I still had a lot of growing up to do. Texas taught me not to be naive about people. Texas taught me that I can live anywhere. Texas taught me freedom. Texas taught me what love isn't. Texas taught me I have choices. Texas taught me that "stuff" isn't important. Texas taught me I can live without. Texas taught me a lot about myself. Texas taught me about the world. Texas taught me reality. Texas taught me to know what I want. Texas taught me that I am nothing without God. Texas taught me I can have everything then nothing. Texas molded me into the person I am today.

If asked if I could change how I lived my life, the choices I made and everything I had to endure, would I? No. I am a better person because of it.

I can honestly say I am ready for whatever God has in store for me. Although I feel sometimes this phrase is overused, it's the best way for me to explain how I feel...God has given me a peace about what is to come in my life. I am ready to settle down, so to speak. I have never felt this prepared about anything in my life. I don't want to be a pushover or a "go with the flow" type of person anymore. I want to stand strong in my beliefs and I want them to be reflected in my life like never before. I am not ashamed of the gospel of Jesus Christ. Without Him I am nothing. Nothing.

There is a country song that has come out recently that speaks the truth..."if you want to hear God laugh, tell Him your plans". For years I've had a Life List and I'm not saying it's not good to have goals and so forth, but it is not okay to make all the decisions beforehand. We have to seek God...when we plan too much we leave God out and that's when we miss out on the blessings He has for us! I have recently become friends with someone who has such a great outlook on life and that's how I want to be. I have thought a lot about the future and althought I consider myself to be more spontaneous than much of a planner, I have asked God to prepare me for the future. I have prayed for the man God would have me be with someday and to train me to be prepared for children. I want my life and the life of my future husband and future children to reflect those things as well and I know the only way that is going to happen is by relying on God. Living my life for Him, giving Him the glory!

I know some of you are probably wiping your eyes and rereading some of those last few lines because I don't talk much about having children, but it is something that was brought to my attention by my doctor. Because of some of my previous health issues, I will more than likely be a high risk pregancy and although I know God can do anything, it made me really think about children. I have always done well with older children and babies, but preschoolers scare me. I have always felt like they could tell I had no clue...how do you relate to a preschooler? So, even though I am still okay with the fact that I might never have children unless I adopt, I am okay with the fact that I may indeed one day have a preschooler. God said He would never give us more than we could handle!

Well, that's about it. I really do hope God leads me to share more often since I have gotten away from posting on here. I really love to write and share, but sometimes I forget, get tired, don't have time...but He has given me the gift and I should use it for His glory!

Weighing in...

2007-03-12T17:50:00.000-07:00

Well, a lot has happened since my last post, but I really don't have nor the time or the energy to go there...so, I am just going to start with my life at present. Work is going really well-really busy, just the way I like it. My friend, Rhon, and I discussed this not long ago. He said he remembered (he used to be my boss) how I didn't like to be bored and neither does he. Today was crazy. Last week, my boss, Skip, was in Arkansas all week long and then today we had two folks for Arkansas with us for three days. It's all a great learning experience though!

I did manage to finally get my Florida Driver's license...I would like to kick someone's butt in Tallahassee...I was completely irrate by the time I got it which is VERY evident by my picture. When I decided I had come back to stay, I went and got car insurance and then about a week after I got it, the insurance agency told me I had to get a Florida license...no, really? Duh! I am not stupid! Anyway, I attempted to do just that, but was then informed by the state of Florida that my license was suspended....excuse me? What did you say? Suspended? Why? Because I left the state of Florida without surrendering my license and registration. Um, if I did that how exactly would I legally drive to Texas? How would I then have been able to get a license in Texas? Or register my car? Huh? They couldn't answer me...I'm not surprised. Honestly, every time I called I got a different response about what I needed to provide. First, just a copy of your current registration and insurance. No, that won't do it, we need a copy of letters from your car insurer in Texas stating the dates you had insurance with them. No, that won't work either, we've got to have a copy of the registration from when you first moved to Texas. Now why would I have that? I had the most recent one, but not the first one because it expired and I threw it away. No, that's not what we need, we need you to have the state of Texas fax us this...blah, blah, blah...really, in the end, I had to pay $150 to get my license reinstated...it didn't matter that I had been a resident of Florida my entire life up until I moved away for two years. It didn't matter that I had every piece of paper plus some they told me I needed. It didn't matter that I was an upstanding citizen because I was being treated like a criminal. My car insurance would become invalid as of March 18 if I couldn't get a license in Florida. Trust me, all the state wants is your money. It is ridiculous!

On to more pleasant things...I have begun walking each evening around San Marco...well, actually from my place up to the square which is really not a square at all more like a triangle. It's a wonderful walk and there are so many people out walking, jogging, biking...and the weather has been incredible!!! I have two goals with this walking...to enjoy myself and the fresh air and besides it's free...doesn't cost me a thing to walk up there and back...plus, I get exercise. I have figured it to be about a mile and a half round trip. I always feel refreshed when I come back and ready to tackle whatever is waiting for me here at the house. Tonight I walked up and set by the fountain and gazebo and talked with Tara for a few minutes while people watching and then I trekked it back. I was booking it on the way there and then I walked at a constant, steady pace on the way back, but not quite as fast yet still steady enough to be good exercise.

I have set a couple of goals for myself with this. One reason I moved to this area was so I could walk to town. So, my first goal would be to keep the walking up and as a result be able to lose 50 pounds by changing my eating habits and gulping water down by the gallons. So far, so good. Just by exercising and drinking water I am so much better off and know I will lose weight. My first goal is to be down 10 pounds by Easter. I really think I can do it....however, I've got to buy a scale so I can actually monitor my weight loss.

Well, tonight I hope to get a couple of things at least headed towards being on Ebay...to help me pay off some of this debt.

Starting Over

2007-02-09T21:27:00.000-08:00

I started this blog when I was preparing to move to Texas, hence the name. It was my starting over point or so I thought. Now I find myself starting over again with many, many lessons learned and a whole lot of advice for anyone who thinks they've found love again after a divorce.

I am not going to share every bit of my life with you, but I am going to take you through my daily struggles. Where I've been and where I'm going. How much I have grown up in the past two years and mistakes I've made and seem to still be making along the way.

First off, starting over is not all it's cracked up to be. I am not exactly happy with how the last two years of my life went and I am still reeling in the problems I incurred during that time. I am paying off debt for stuff that I don't even use...my name is on a house in another part of the country and until my name comes off that house, I cannot move out on my own because the minute someone does a credit check the rest would be history. So, I am forced to live with my parents whom I truly love, but not enough to live with everyday. My dad has made it his personal vendetta of sorts to see that I pay off all my bills immediately...unfortunately, if I do not receive some kind of a God-given windfall, it will literally take me years to get out from under this mess, but I'm okay with that. It's not where I really saw myself to be at this time in my life, but it's MY mess and I will deal with it. However, my mom and I got into it over a Coach purse last night because she said if my dad found out he would think I wasn't paying on my bills. I bought the purse with money I set aside for it. It's my money. I pay my bills and I pay more than the minimum that is due. I am responsible. I was raised that way. AND I am NOT a kid, but I am their kid, their only kid whom they don't want to see fail...it's just a tough situation..so, I await the phone call for the day my name is off that mortgage...I think I'm gonna throw a party that day!

And, just when I think things are getting better because my friend Rhon has decided to introduce me to someone at his church...I blow it. I am stupid sometimes. I had to apologize to a man I have never even met yet because I was having a week of need. I suffer from a lack of adult conversation and I don't even have any kids! And to make matters even better, I actually get to meet this man on Sunday....could I make it any more AWKWARD? Geez, I'm really immature sometimes. Like this guy would even give me the time of day now...oh well, life is what you make of it...and I really made a mess of this.

Of course, I guess I don't really give myself much credit for anything good anymore and that's not because of my lack of devotion to making my life better...this week being a prime example. I was going along well in the walk of life and then BAM! I went weird. The woman was once again reduced to a girl. Amazing!

If I would just let go and let God I would be so much better off, but I try to take the reigns and it all falls apart. I am really ready for a good relationship. Some would argue that I just left a relationship within the last two months, how could I possibly be ready for another one...well, I really stepped out of that relationship a LONG time before I actually left. I am a good, Godly person who deserves a good, Godly man. I have worked hard to keep my life up to par and what do I have to show for it? I feel like Job...I am lonely. I would love to have some friends my age, but I really only have about three...and only one that lives close enough to do anything with.

I may be living in fantasy land, but I want a man that when I look into his eyes, I know he loves me...no matter what. I think I would really do good with a man that is a little older than me...someone who challenges me and holds up his end of the deal. Someone who makes me laugh. Someone who is my natural fit. I don't want to be lonely. It's no fun!

I have been taking GREAT strides to improve my life since I moved back. For any of you who haven't been part of my blog life before, you may want to do a little review and see that the past two years have been tough on my body. Surgeries, circulation problems, sleep issues, broken bones...it's been interesting, but I am determined to overcome it all. I've started eating better, and taking the stairs at work. I just signed up for church softball. I can't belive that either...Plus, I am going to join the local gym because I need to keep my circulation going and an elliptical machine needs to be my new best friend. Not to mention I've agreed to try kayaking with Tara & Daniel in April. And Tara has challenged me to wakeboarding this summer...so, I've got reasons to get in shape! I need to lose about 50 pounds to be able to do things easier and losing 75 would put me back at high school graduation weight! Whoo-hoo!

Okay enough about my life for now...I'll be back!

Long Time, No Blog...oh and rappers...

2006-11-12T14:47:00.000-08:00

No surprises...no deaths...no births...no injuries...no accidents...no exciting news...so, no blog. Sorry, friends, I've taken a breather from blogging and hope to continue it once I have some new and bright ideas. I figure at this point I probably don't have very many fans left, but please let me know if you are still out there!

I am currently at work, yes on a Sunday, but the program I am working with is giving me a hard time, so I decided to actually check my blog...which is a funny thing...I actually think I was suffering from blogitis. Everytime I thought about logging in and updating, I started thinking of all that I would need to write to bring everyone up to date and it just seemed like such a big task and I wasn't ready for it...but now I am back! I'm on the attack! I am the mac-girl! I will not slack! I'm back on track! For those that lack, join me in the back! Ok, ok...so, I haven't become a rapper just yet.

Speaking of rappers...I wonder how I could make it big with a rapper name, you know all those cool bling, bling names they have hanging around their chests...I think I could be one of those. Yo! Whazzup? Jbananabling is IN THE HOUSE! Give it up for Jfly...lol! I'm just not that creative at the moment.

I better go before I embarass myself...later peeps!

We're In!

2006-04-24T17:59:00.000-07:00

Okay, I always say I have no excuses, but this time I do! I do have excuses! It's called moving, CPAP adventures, a now 45 minute commute, a temporary new office, a new staff person, setting up furniture and the DR Horton nightmare!

So, we're in our house...FINALLY!!! We moved in at the end of March, but it's been nonstop caos since then...so, let me briefly try to catch everyone up. I am sorry for not being able to post much and I promise to have some pics up soon.

First, like I said, we moved! We moved all our stuff in and all my stuff from storage to the garage...I just went through my stuff this last Saturday from the garage. I felt like I was on that show, "Clean House". We had the donate boxes, the throw away boxes, the keep boxes, the go-through boxes, and the craigslist items. Geez! Now all the keep boxes are in the dining room waiting to be sorted and gone through. I'll get there!

Anyway, we moved all our stuff in even though the guys weren't completely done with our house because we had major drywall/texturing issues and over the last three and a half weeks life has been interesting! We've had walls torn down to the studs and actually studs replaced and everything redone. We had to have nearly the entire house retextured due to the fact that the entire time our house was being built it rained and was cold...it was never hot...and the drywall and tape lines were showing through the texture. It's been a living nightmare. At one point, we had so much furniture covered with plastic it resembled a house that had been shut up for years and was awaiting a new owner. We had to have a new frig delivered from Lowe's because the first one had issues...door was scratched and bent and didn't align right. Then we had to have a new stove because the door was broken on the current one. We do have gas as opposed to electric which is such a change for me. Some things seem to cook faster and others slower...it's strange. Then we had a broken window in one of the dormers that was replaced along with an oddball window in the Master because one of the workers managed to shoot a nail from the outside through the frame of the window to the inside and then replaced the window with one that didn't match anything else. We had concrete that didn't match other concrete...and it's not that our house is bad...it's really, really nice and we love it...and we're happy with all they've done to repair things and not give us a hard time. We also have a great big yard and Jeff has the grass looking so good!

That brings me to the Tree Farm! I had never been to one before...it was awesome! They have these huge oak trees you can buy for like 6,000 dollars! That's not the ones we chose! We did get three Red Oaks though. They are about 2 to 3 inches wide already! It make the yard look so nice! We rec'd 2 trees with the house and to our surprise, they are silver leaf maples and they are really tall and in great shape! Even our builder was impressed! I'll be sure to include pics of these as well!

Ahhhhhhhh....I am finally sleeping soundly! I got my CPAP machine a couple of weeks ago and I love it! It has a humidifier on it and I am sound asleep in a few minutes! I am beginning to feel like I have much more energy now which is what I have longed for for so long!

Along with the move I gained a 45 minute commute to work. It's not so bad, but it just takes so long! It's primarily straight up one road...that starts out as a 2 laner and ends as a 6 laner. It's so peaceful out here where we live and we get to enjoy the small airport up the street! We see the planes taking off especially on the weekends! There are also lots of hotair balloons in the area and we frequently get to injoy them as well!

Our neighborhood is growing and we really don't look forward to the day that we can't see the gorgeous sunsets on the horizon...but it'll be awhile before our view is blocked.

Jeff has started his own business and is really enjoying it! It gives him the flexibility we need and he is just so excited! We have a website we're working on, but it's not up and running yet. It will be www.bahrenburgsignaturepainting.com. He's doing interior painting the 'ole fashion' way. He takes his time and he is really good at it. He hopes to have another employee within a year.

I am still an avid ebayer and currently sell on www.craigslist.com as well. If you haven't heard of it...check it out! There is one in every large city around the country!

I still love my job! I am in a temporary office because they are changing things around a bit and I just didn't care to inhale dust particles for the next several weeks...so, I am actually in a 'new' office...however, the administrator told me 'not to get too attached'...darn! The other children's assistant moved to another position as Youth Assistant and I miss her so already! She is a breast cancer survivor and I love to hear her speak! Everything she says in deliberate! She's amazing! The new girl, Sarah, started on Friday. She's about 22...makes me feel really old! She sweet and we talked a lot on Friday...and I look forward to getting to know her better!

VBS and Camps are just around the corner; so, my desk has been topped off with camp forms and VBS info...it's crazy! We are actually hosting our VBS at a local water park...which is awesome! The kids will just love it! We are doing all our Bible studies based on water events: Jesus walking on the water, the storm, noah's ark...etc. Check out our summer website: www.flipflopsummer.com!

Well, that's about it! I hope to keep this up a little better now that we are somewhat settled!

Everyone take care!

Bloggety Blog Blog Blog (I forgot to press publish)

2006-03-21T10:50:00.000-08:00

No excuses from me...just haven't really felt like writing amidst the job change, sleep apnea results and CPAP try outs, moving, going to physical theraphy, spring break, and trying to talk my parents into moving closer...gee, I cannot see why I would have any reason not to write. Like I've stated before, if I kept up with this better I wouldn't have so much to tell in one post. Geez, I cannot seem to get that through my thick skull! LOL!

Anyway, I am now working at The Heights Baptist Church if I didn't share that before. I love, love, love it here! I am constantly tackling new things and am so busy! Just the kind of job I was looking for!

Also, I did have my CPAP test last Friday night...I felt a little closed in when I first put the mask on, but I kept reminding myself that this is "hope" for me. It wasn't so bad afterall! I think I did really well! The mask was a little too tight on the one side and was pinching my cheek, but I had the technician adjust it and then in the middle of the night....it happened...I began to breathe in what smelled like burnt cheese. At first, I just thought it was my imagination, but then I sat up and the tech came in and I ask him and he said one of the other techs burnt popcorn....so, I was dealing with the burnt cheese smell for the next little while, but after that I slept like a rock! A ROCK! In fact, when Jeff came to pick me up at 5:15 a.m. (hey, he volunteered) they couldn't wake me up yet because I was still in REM sleep....Yea! I felt so refreshed and alive and AWAKE when I got up...I was ready to face the day! Of course, Jeff in his "semi-awake-I'm-gonna-kill-you-look" just wanted to go home...not interested in the good news...well, who can blame him...I like to sleep in on Saturdays too!

Opps, lunchtime is over...back to work...I'll post more later.

2006-02-18T16:59:00.000-08:00

Just for Teresa

Three names you go by:
1. JoAnna
2. Joey (only by TX family)
3. Joann and hey you…only by those who don’t know me and probably only once…as I am very important, don’t you know who I am?

Three things that scare you:
1. Spiders
2. Haunted Houses
3. Suffocation

Three of your everyday essentials:
1. Lip gloss
2. Contacts
3. Face Powder

Three things you are wearing right now:
1. Purple fuzzy cardigan w/white tank top
2. Black cords
3. Silver rings, earrings

Three of Your Favorite Drinks:
1. Water w/crystal light peach tea mix
2. Dr. Pepper
3. Big Red in the bottle (found in TX)

Three of your favorite songs - at the moment:
1. "Never Alone” by Barlow Girls
2. "Rescue” by Newsong
3. "If It Wasn’t for Texas"

Three things you want in a relationship (other than real love):
1. Honesty
2. Godly leadership
3. Funloving

Two truths and a lie:
1. I miss my family and my cat.
2. I am nervous about committing to another marriage.
3. I love cooking!

Three of your favorite hobbies:
1. Researching for work via the web/phone
2. Reading
3. Ebay, baby!

Three things you want to do really badly right now:
1. Drive around and take pictures…well, basically, just drive considering my broken right leg
2. Hug my mom and dad
3. Move out of this apartment

Three places you want to go on vacation:
1. Maine
2. Ireland
3. Florida

Three things you want to do before you die:
1. Walk for a cause
2. Travel abroad
3. Have a less than 25 BMI

Three ways that you are stereotypically a chick/guy:
1. Hair ties/clips are essential
2. OMGosh, is that a gray hair? …dial tone…555-HAIR…Colour for You…this is Jon…how can I help you?
3. “Like...’em...like…well, you know…”

Three people I would like to see take this quiz:
1. Randal
2. Ace
3. Jeff

My Heel

2006-02-18T16:51:00.000-08:00

This is the back of my heel. It looked like someone took a purple marker and drew in the lines...this was about one week after I broke it.

Bruising

2006-02-18T16:49:00.000-08:00

This is my bruise outer right ankle...this was the day I broke it. Ouch!

Yep, the rumors are true...

2006-02-18T16:36:00.000-08:00

...I broke my leg! Sorry everyone! Haven't been online much...broke my leg two weeks ago and my foot is still purple! I was just walking along and whaa-laa, the ground was soft and over went my ankle and I heard a big CRACK and then I just sat down. So, I didn't fall and break my leg, I broke my leg then fell. You know, I've always gotta do something a little different...nope, no traditionalism for me! Anywho, I actually broke my fibula right down by my ankle...cracked it nearly 3/4 of the way. But the good news out of it all is that it is a 'self stabilizing bone', so I don't have to have a cast just wear the stupid boot. I go back to the ortho doc on Monday for more xrays to see if it is healing properly...this cold, cold weather is not making it feel any better that's for sure. It's about 24 degrees outside right now...brrrrtinkee...Well, if you have a chance, drop me a line. Love to hear from everyone! Take care...and do me a favor, don't break your leg!

PS. Randal, I go to the ENT on Wednesday to find out something about my sleep study. I'll post back after that! I hope you are well, Cuz!

All I Could Think Was...

2006-01-28T12:04:00.000-08:00

What have I gotten myself into? I arrived for my sleep study appointment at 8:30 p.m. and found myself in the hands of two ladies who were originally from the Urkraine...heavy accent...I had to really pay attention to catch what they were saying to me...it was an odd feeling taking the elevator up to the second floor of this building and then being directed to my room for the night. I hope the look on my face didn't reveal what my eyes saw and registered to my brain thinking I was headed for the torture chamber. I have never seen so many wires laid across a bed...it almost looked like it was the end...I was headed for the needle. I had to calm my nerves by remembering the information I had read about the electrodes being hooked up to me...breathe, breathe. I was almost panicking on the inside. It's funny when I think back about it now...oh well, I suppose others have reacted in the same way or worse!

Anyway, I filled out some more papers and went to put on my PJs. After brushing my teeth, I was told to sit in the chair that was waiting for me in the room. I sat down and the main nurse told me it would take approximately 40 minutes to hook me up. (Oh My Gosh! It is the torture chamber!!!) Actually, it went really well. I had electrodes everywhere: on my head, in my hair, on my chest, on my legs, on my finger...first they had to clean the areas so the electrodes would stick, then dry the areas off, then apply the electrodes 'just so'. Anyway, after I was all hooked up, I was taken over to lay on the bed...but the one thing the forgot to inform me of until that moment was that I was to sleep on my back. Just when I was getting siked up that I could do this...on my back!!! I can't do that! I always sleep on my side! What am I going to do? Am I going to be able to sleep?

So, as my eyelids grew heavy and I closed them several times...I continued to sort of watch the TV which was at a weird angle and then gave up trying. As I settled in on my back...I couldn't get comfortable. I must have laid there for two plus hours trying to fall asleep. Finally, I began rotating my head...just my head...from side to side...to maybe fool myself into thinking I was on my side...I did dooze a few times...waking myself up when the snoring began...then evidentally I must have fallen asleep briefly.

I then woke up around 4:00 a.m. and was ask if I wanted to get up at 5 a.m. and I did. I was tired of laying there...basically in one position, although towards the end of the study I just gave up the ghost and retreated to my normal position on my side. At that point, I figured they had already gotten what they needed from me and I was right. The main nurse came in and told me "you didn't hear this from me, but you didn't stop breathing in the night and only had very light, quiet snoring..." Great! Just great! That is NOT the news I wanted to hear! I think she thought I wanted to hear it, but I didn't!!! I had hope in this study! HOPE! But, of course, they had to send the study to Las Colinas to be read and then I would get a phone call.

I was then released, got dressed and drove myself home in a semi-commatose state of mind. Upon arriving at the apartment, I hit the sofa and don't remember what happened for the next 4 hours. I was finally asleep.

Anyway, it took me almost 3 days of standing under the hot shower to get the crud out of my hair..the stuff they stick the electrodes on with. I have mounds of hair and it just wouldn't come out and now my head is all broken out because of it, but that is the least of my worries.

I received a call from my doctor's office that I am to meet with him on Monday at 10:00 a.m. for him to go over the results with me (luckily, he just had this same test done at the same location with the same nurse-she told me) about my upper airway obstruction. Now this may sound weird and I guess the brain tries to freak us out in this way sometimes, but the moment after i hung up with her...I felt as if I couldn't swallow. Now, I've been having swallowing problems for awhile now...which I expressed to the doctor prior to this study as well. So, now I am wondering if I do have a swallowing problem and not a apnea problem. Oh, who knows..I really can't worry about it until I talk to the doctor.

In the mean time, I was interviewed by another baptist church and have been called for a second interview on Monday at 1 p.m. So, keep that in your prayers!

I'll post more later! My fiance and future mom in law are waiting for me in the car!

Opps, almost forgot!

2006-01-24T12:55:00.000-08:00

Sleep study tonight from 8:30 p.m. to 6 a.m....not really looking forward to the 6 a.m. part, but I just pray I can sleep in a strange place with little gadgets hooked up to me. Here is what the information I was given says:

-One of our caring staff (as opposed to one of your evil staff???) will measure and then place electrodes (small wires) on your scalp...
-Electrodes will be placed on your temple and cheek...
-Two electrodes will be placed on either side of your chin...
-A small sensor will be placed in front of your nose...
-A small band will be placed around your chest and one around your abdomen...
-A small sensor will be placed on one of your fingers...
-Electrodes will be placed on each leg...
-We know this sounds like a lot but the monitors are lightweight and you can shift positions while you sleep.

I imagine there aren't any mirrors in any rooms or the restroom, because if I saw myself like this at 3 a.m. I'd probably have a heart attack and then there wouldn't be any need for the study.

Impressions from God

2006-01-24T12:30:00.000-08:00

As I was sitting in church Sunday morning at Grace Community (website) God was impressing some things upon me. First, I had always had this drive somewhere deep inside me to speak to women, but I always give God the excuse that I really don't have much of a testimony compared to other women. Well, this being a time of truly trusting God and going on faith I realized that God is constantly shaping our testimonies as Christians. Now some of you are probably thinking "that's really profound, JoAnna", but if you step back and look at your life you probaby don't realize how much that is true! I am convinced that God is going to use this time in my life as an example for someone else. If I face this with anger and resentment towards God, I will not be able to share that with others; but if I use it as a time of learning, healing and really seeking His face then what a testimony I will have!

Okay, I'm finished with my mini-sermon now...anyway, I had a job interview today...well, really it was just a "let me show you around the office and talk a mile-a-minute and see if you can retain all this information in a matter of ten minutes" time. It's a part-time weekend job, in which my resume stuck out to this guy because I worked for a Baptist church..he was so impressed because some realtor there (yes, this was at a real estate office) used to be a Music Minister and the front desk girl, whom I wanted so badly to call "Michelle" because she looks like my best friend back home, is a Baptist. Okay, God, what is your intention here? It was really an idea job for the weekend...about 16 hours and a good way to get my "foot in the door" to be a full-time admin asst. in a realtor's office. So, I will continue to seek God in this. Considering he had to pick 4 or 5 resumes out of 160, I figured it must have meant something for me to be a 'chosen one'. I'll post back when I have more info.

So, I came home from the interview and decided it was time to call the car insurance...yes, back on Friday the 13th, a member of the church where I was working, opened her car door and the 35 plus mph winds of the blustery day ripped the door from her hands slamming it into my driver's door leaving two lovely indentions and taking the paint off. So, after figuring I was not going to have time to run around and get estimates on it I decided to let the insurance company handle it. They are a nice couple and I felt so sorry for her...she just kept apologizing to me...and I kept telling her it was okay, beyond her control. It does get quite windy out here...blows over little bushes and trees...and feels as if your car is going to blow right off the road! So, I now have a claim number and will be awaiting the call to drive it over to the estimator's office to get a check. Fun, fun, fun!

I also had to call the Annuity Board about my health insurance which will become null and void at the end of the month if I don't request an extension. I think they are willing to extend it for up to 18 months which is really cool! However, I am going to be needing it with all the health stuff I have going on and coming up in the near future.

Jeff started his training for his new car salesman job today. He was very excited and nervous which is to be expected. He has called me twice to say it is going really well, but having to sit for hours on end is making his circulation issues a nuisance. He said his legs and feet keep falling asleep, so I told him to tell them he may need to get up and walk around some during the training since once he is on the job most of his time will be spent standing anyway.

Well, that's all I can think of for now. I am getting ready to list a bunch of clothes and stuff on ebay so we'll have a little income during this transition!

Ta, ta!

New Year, New House, New Jobs...well, I Once was a "Newman"

2006-01-19T10:16:00.000-08:00

Well, I haven't been around much lately...I mean, I've been around, but I've either been sick, out of town, or just busy. Since it is the New Year, I decided I should at least catch individuals who actually read my posts up on my current life. As of today, I am unemployed. It was a decision that had been coming, but yesterday kind of summed it up for me and I decided to move on and look for other work. I really felt 'underworked' there. I made okay money, but I was paying my own benefits and I was bored. I expressed by boredom on many occassions...but I never seemed to get anywhere.

On top of all that, I went to the doc again on Monday for a follow up to an increase in my Zoloft meds...which didn't do me any good. I couldn't tell a difference at all! So, the doc switched me to Effexor and I've been on a rollercoaster ever since...it's one of those meds you have to be weened on to...so, this is my second full day on it and I've gone from crying fits to moments of happy splendor...i feel like I'm suffering from 'mania', but I'm not...it's just the meds settling in...I hope this feeling doesn't last much longer. Right now my head is about to explode and I'm getting sleepy again.

So, while visiting with the doc, and explaining my whole theory of how I've gotten to the point where I am...always tired, snoring, headaches in the mornings, extreme fatigue, falling asleep at my desk, on my lunch, etc...we reached the conclusion that in addition to my new meds, I would be going for sleep study. As fun as that may sound, I really hope it repairs me! It has actually given me great 'hope' although no one would be able to tell that today...i look like i'm either coming off of being hopped up or I haven't slept in months. The thing is that I do sleep...in fact, last night I dreamt...the first time in a while that's happened. It's just that because I snore (obviously loudly since I keep Jeff awake in the other room) I don't real rest...so, I probably have obstructive sleep apnea. Obstructive because I am overweight and my air flow is blocked. So, next Tuesday night I will be hooked up to machines to monitor my sleeping. I don't think I'll have a problem falling asleep and I am actually looking forward to finding out if I need a CPAP machine. Anything to get me out of this fog!!!!

The house is still being built which is exciting! Jeff got a new job at a local Honda Dealership as a salesman and will be starting next week. I am looking for a job/career change. I think I would like to get into real estate. I really enjoy helping people find places to live by using the internet and I think God put that idea in my head. So, I am looking to find a admin position with either a builder or a real estate company.

Well, I think it's definitely time for me to lay down for a little bit before my contacts fall out due to dry eye...lol. I'll be sure to post some pics of the house and check back in about my sleep study.

Over Zealous Coupon Users and Card Machines

2005-11-15T20:22:00.000-08:00

Okay, I went to Wally World (Walmart) today after work to pick up a few things and on my way out wish I had had a video camera with me...because Jeff really didn't believe me when I told him...Teresa can relate to this...it could only happen to me. He said I told him something similar the last time I ventured out into the world and waited in the dreaded line. So, the guy in front of me is just finishing his checkout and he has a gazillion coupons, which is normally fine, but of couse, the cashier tells him the peanut butter coupon and the buy three get one free canned vegetables coupons are not ringing up. So, he goes on an adventure to find them in his millions of bags stacked high in his cart...it's the typical scene...I know you can picture it. He had his two kids with him and they are all digging through the cart like african banshees looking for food in the wild. Plus, not only is this man way over zealous with his coupons he also has feminine gestures to go with it. He was running around his cart, really he was, waving his hands saying in a somewhat high pitched voice, "I'm not going to look through all this for that one thing, I'm not!" Then when she finally gives the whopping total of $170 and some change he realizes he's left his wallet in the car...I just wanted to wring this guys neck at this point...so, while he sends his kids out to find his wallet he decides he will look for those items that didn't match the coupons and proceeds to do so. At this point, I am so irritated that I just continue to stare at the gum...thinking at some point I going to burn a hole through the Big Red. So, the guy finds his couponable items and gets it all worked out so he can save a whole 50 cents or whatever and his kids bring back his wallet (don't even get me started on the fact that his kids were way too young to be running out to the car by themselves to get their fathers' wallet but that's another day) so he checks out FINALLY and leaves. Whew! I didn't think I was gonna make it through that, but what comes next just adds wind to my fire...although at this point I decided to just laugh at it all...oh, everything rings up fine and I don't have any coupons (don't get me wrong, I love coupons...usually) so I run my debit card through the machine and check credit like I normally do so I can just sign and not reveal my PIN number to the world and sign and press "OK" and wait. Then the cashier tells me the machine is waiting on me to sign and say "OK" which I have already done and tell her so. So, she just starts hitting some key on her keyboard...and waits, then the screen in front of me goes blank and then seems to "reboot" and I tell the cashier this and she just continues to hit the key, over and over, she hits the key....for nearly 10 minutes she just keeps hitting the key and at this point I am sure I am going to awaken from this hideous dream...I am thinking at some point she is going to call over the CSR (customer service rep...previous walmart employee knowledge) to solve the issue, but she doesn't...I was just going to reach over and turn her light to 'blink' mode to alert a CSR when it all clicked together and printed me out a receipt to sign. The poor people behind me must have thought I was trying to use a card that was maxed out or something. So, just goes to show me that I haven't lost the touch for getting in the wrong line...if it's gonna happen, it's gonna happen to me...I've warned Jeff, but he sticks around anyway....well, that's all for now! Happy trails!

Valium, Nitrous Oxide and Other Fond Dental Memories...

2005-10-28T06:43:00.000-07:00

I did it. I finally went to the dentist. The girl who used to work in my position recommended a dentist just about 2 blocks from the church and it was wonderful, well as wonderful as a dentist office can be. The office was bustling with people which is a 'good sign' to me since that usually means people like the dentist. When I called to price their services the lady was incredibly kind and I just knew that was where I was to go. So, I called back and got an appointment for Thursday (yesterday) at 9 a.m. I was able to go p/u my x-ray from the other dentist so I didn't have to have another one taken and spend more of my hard-earned dollar. So, I went in and the doctor's name is Jeff...go figure. I told him "all I need is another Jeff in my life". He was really nice and he was telling me about something that was going on at his church Wednesday night which is cool. Anywhow, before I knew it Doc. Jeff was confirming my worst fear...I did need a root canal and a crown. YUCK!!!! Of course, at that point my mind was racing with the worst fears not of the the root canal, but of the choking factor. He then told me if I didn't take care of it before the weekend, I would be wishing I had. Since I had already experienced PAIN, I decided to take the first available appointment which happened to be at 1 pm...then he asked if was anxious at all and I told him my fear of choking during the procedure so he had the nurse write me up a prescription for valium so I could conk out during the whole thing! Wow! Awesome! I can handle this! So, I had to be back at noon so I could sit for an hour while the downer kicked in.

So, I left ran (nearly literally) to work and did one quick errand, jumped in my SUV, dashed to CVS for the drugs, sped over to Weinerswitzel my favorite hotdog on a pretzel bun, dashed back to pick up the drugs, dashed back to work and it was nearly noon already. My co-worker and dentist-suggester, Kathy dropped me off at the dentist and away I went. After swallowing the pills, I sat down in a chair in the lobby and promptly waited for them to take over...after looking at what seemed like a million magazines I was beginning to wonder if they were really going to work, but once they called me back...that was all she wrote. I was out. However, my worst fear did happen...I woke up somewhere in the middle of the procedure in a hot sweat...I felt like someone had thrown me in a hot bath and I was trembling...and then I was out again. However, when I got up to leave the chair once Jeff arrived to take me home, I felt as if I had wet my pants. I think it was just sweat, I hope it was! =)

So, Jeff took me home and it's all been good since then. Still not chewing on that side, but I get the real crown on November 21st. So, I'll check back in soon! Christmas is making it's debut early around the church as usual...trying to get everything nailed down!

P.S. Sorry, I forgot to publish the post until now...

Okay, yeah...so, I'm in....

2005-10-25T15:35:00.000-07:00

PAIN!!!!!

Now that i got that out...I have let my poor little tooth go far too long and now I am having extreme discomfort. Last night, well let me back up, yesterday afternoon I took two ibuprofens about 3 p.m. then upon arriving home I took two tylenols after dinner followed by two more tylenols at bedtime and then sometime in the middle of the night I took another tylenol and upon awaking in more pain Jeff gave me two tylenol arthritis and since then I have taken two more tylenols...so, as you can imagine, I have been home all day and at this moment in time the pain is slowly coming back. I spent the entire day knocked out. I seriously considered trying to have Jeff take me to work when he arrived home at 1:30 p.m. but he took one look at me and I could see laughter in his eyes...so, I just closed my eyes and went out again.

I must have called about 10 dentist offices and found out that a root canal and crown can cost you anywhere from 1300 to 2500 and that's w/out insurance. So, now I just gotta make up my mind about where I'm gonna go. I am beginning to think that this is the dental capital of the states. There must be a bajillion dentists in a 30 miles radius...it's quite overwhelming.

Well, I gotta run..."It's the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown" is on.

It Happened...

2005-10-12T18:52:00.000-07:00

...I got lazy. Well, not really...but excuses are excuses. I didn't go to Curves today so I have only three 'lazy dayz' left now. I didn't go because I ended up working 30 minutes late and I didn't pack my workout gear last night and didn't have time this morning to pack it, so I didn't go. I am packing my gear after I finish my time on the web, so I'll be back in the swing of things tomorrow.

Thank goodness my tooth is not hurting me today. I've got to start calling around the other dentists to see if I can get a better deal on the root canal because after the new year I will have dental insurance again and will be able to get the rest of the work done for a reasonable price.

I am going to Creative Memories Croptoberfest this Saturday and have been gathering pictures and page ideas all week. I am trying to get into journaling in my scrapbooks so I can have something to pass on to my kids and grandkids someday and so I can look back on old memories and laugh, cry, etc. I think I have finally found my niche. I'm not really the crafty type...except I like to make baskets but I haven't been able to find a weaving guild since I've been out here...and it takes up a lot of space that we just don't have right now. I find the scrapbooking is an 'out' for me. It takes me away to another time and another place (kinda like Sandi Patti).

Anywho, I gotta go pack my gear...so tootles until next time. I refuse to put 'tomorrow' because I don't want to make any promises....so, be sure to stay tuned for more scenes from Texasland. Bye!

Toothache

2005-10-11T20:10:00.000-07:00

Yep, my tooth still hurts. When I run my tongue over my broken tooth it feels like there is a huge, gaping hole there when really it's not that much of the tooth. It's the outside corner which I guess really is a lot of my tooth, but in comparison to my entire mouth it's small. Funny how that works.

I worked out at Curves today. I am trying to get into the habit of going everyday and keep telling myself I need to make my self a 'motivational tool' (aka a bright, fun poster) to keep me motivated. I go home to visit my family the day after Christmas and I have 44 more days available for workouts between now and then and my goal is to go to at least 40 or more of those; so, that leaves me 4 "free" days in case I get lazy or something.

Well, time for a some splish, splash! Nite!

Decisions

2005-10-10T19:45:00.000-07:00

I chose a one word title because for some reason or another I always find myself rambling on the Title. Anyway, where do I begin? I really should do this more often because then I wouldn't feel like I had to cover acres of ground at one time...but I'm not gonna promise that because I don't want another "to do" item to add to my current list.

Well, we've found a house we are going to have built. Here is a link to it: http://dfw.drhorton.com/plan.aspx?PlanId=80, it's Elevation C. It is very, very, very exciting and very, very, very tiring/stressful at the same time. We will have a front and back porch and this house is bigger than any place I've ever lived...I hope I don't get lost.

Also, it's been kind of tumultous (no Teresa, I didn't use the Thesaraus) at work here lately. I finally had to tell them I was bored which they tried to tell me maybe it was 'time to move on', but I know God has not 'moved' in my life yet...so, I have proposed to myself and to them that I will 'find' more things to keep me occupied which will hopefully give me more motivation...cuz bored don't work for me. Sorry, my Texas lingo was kicking in.

Plus, my tooth is aching...thus I have a toothache. Wow! That was profound.

Jeff has just informed me that he doesn't like my 'blog' because he considers it a 'security breech'...oh well, if people wanna know about me they can probably get my SSN before they can find me via my blog.

Well, that's about it. Getting ready to head to bed. I will write more often. I will write more often. I will. I will.

Nite!

2005-09-24T18:14:00.000-07:00

Jeff & I at Sambucas

Hurricane Rita....More Health Issues...Airports...

2005-09-24T17:55:00.000-07:00

NWS (nat'l weather svc) has issue a flood watch for your area...that was this morning...it's nearly 8 p.m. and we haven't seen the first drop of rain. It's been gusty and there's tree limbs and other garbage laying about...but not rain and we NEED, NEED, NEED rain!!!

Okay, enough about that. God will give us what we need when we need it; so, it can't really be that bad. So, how's everyone been? I've been, you know, busy and I know that's no excuse so don't let me believe that it is.

Let's see...well, I am now off coumadin which is a HUGE praise! I had my 6 mo. doplar ultrasound on my leg last week and no clots were there! Yea! However, I am not out of the dark yet...they took 11, yes that's right, 11 viles of blood from me to see if I was "prone" to blood clots and the doc hasn't gotten the results from those yet. Anywho, I did manage to break off another piece of my molar, but thank goodness it hasn't begun to ache. I enrolled in a dental discount plan for the rest of the year until I can get back my dental insurance that I lost when I moved. So, the crown and root canal will only costs me a 1/3 of what i was orginially quoted. Whew! My poor bank account will be much happier with that. And, let's see, I did go home later day...opps, Labor Day weekend and actually got stuck in Florida an extra day...I was one minute passed the 30 minute cut off so they wouldn't let me have a boarding pass (mental note: always print boarding pass before going to airport to avoid such inconviences as this) and tried to put me on two more planes so i could hang out at the airport all day in my work clothes and lug my luggage (wow, now that word make sense to me...i never put two and two together...it was just a learned word all these years...sorry) all over the airport and then had to call my folks to come get me again and take me back home just so we could turn around in the morning and come back again. $50 to guarantee me on the first morning flight...jeepers!

And, today was a first for me...I had my haircut outside. I really think that would make for a unique salon experience. =) Jeff's mom trimmed my hair on the porch in the wind...but i think it was a really neat idea.

Oh, and I want to let the world and those dispersed around it that Daniel Smith makes a mean fondue...LOL! I only got to see a limited amount of people when I was home including Michelle & Mikayla, Daniel, Tara, Daniel Page and my parents and loving cat. I didn't go to church...I just enjoyed time with my friends and family because when I go to church I have to explain my life to everyone and that is very tiring...I just want to enjoy myself.

Well, Teresa, I have now posted...and I'm still checking into the Korea thing, but let me know what your plans are and I may just wait until you get back to the states because certain members of my soon-to-be and present family were very much against it because they are convinced that the one weeks I would be there is when N. Korea would attack....gotta love family!!! =)

Take care and I promise, promise, promise to post more later!

Doctors, Aerobeds, Molars, Gas Prices

2005-08-25T07:45:00.000-07:00

I really thought I had posted since the Mission Space Soapbox, but I guess I haven't. I've been really busy with work and now that Jeff is working basically full-time, our lives are pretty much on the turntable called life. You know, the basic day: get up (thank goodness both of us have reasonable hours in the morning), take a shower, get dressed and ready, take vitamins and pills, grab breakfast, run out the door, get in the car, drive to work...which is ministry for me and sales for him, get off at 5 and 6, go home, eat dinner, play Uno or surf the net, take more pills, go to bed. And since Jeff works most Saturdays, I usually end up doing laundry with his mom and running errands. Sunday is our only real day together so we go to evening service so we can sleep late and enjoy the day together.

Since I have been here...6 months now...I've been to the doctor more times than I ever have before. My journey, as most of you know, began when I had the gallbladder attack...I ended up under the care of a wonderful surgeon named Dr. Kantor...although he was not on my insurance plan...he just happened to be the doc on call in the emergency room that night... I am still under his care through my primary doc, Dr. Kaplan. Anyway, before Dr. Kaplan there was Dr. Friedman in Richardson. He was Lisa and Jeff's primary so I ended up with him too since he was on my plan; however, he was not affliated with Medical Center of Plano which is where my surgery and hospital stay was; so, I finally ended up at Dr. Kaplan because he can cover all my bases and he is sooooooooooooo sweet. I find it kind of odd to say that for a doctor, but he really is. So, my point here is to say that the world of doctors, hospitals, insurance and co-pay are a big, stinking pain in my backside. America has made a mess of health care. And, as I'm sure many of you have experienced, you must do all the work yourself. I don't think anyone a BCBS has a clue. I've had to do all the research and call them and call them and call them to argue with them about my statements and bills. I had to pay $600+ out to the surgeon and now, since "I" straightened it out with them, will be getting back $500+ of that money....just in time to pay for another thing...but more about that later. Every 2 or 4 weeks depending on my results, I have to get blood work done to check the coumadin levels. Next month will be 6 months since my blood clots and I will be having another doplar ultrasound on my legs to see if things have cleared up. I will probaby also be undergoing a test where they see if I am prone to blood clots which is rather scary to me. Since my good friend, Kirsty, died of a aneurysm and ultimately a blood clot to her heart and my grandfather (dad's dad) died of a stomach aneurysm...it all just seems really scary!!! I just have to remember that the Big Man upstairs is in charge...I'm must go on faith.

Well, I finally did it...I broke down and bought a new Aerobed. The one I was sleeping on was ka-put. It's amazing what you can pay for an "air" matress, but I do have to say that sleep is much better than it was on the cold leather couch. I actually really like the fact that I can adjust the comfort level it's kinda like a cheaper Sleep Number bed...well, not really, but it was a nice thought.

So, now that I've been to all these doctors, I felt like I was really betraying the dentist because I wasn't spending any of my hard earned money with them, so I decided to break my tooth. Yep, bit into my yummy Wendy's Homestyle Chicken sandwich and heard a nice "C-R-A-C-K" which upon first investigation I believed to be a piece of grissel, but upon later inspection of my mouth discovered it was tooth number 30...so, off to the dentist I went. Found out I have a cavity in that tooth along with one in the tooth behind it and that I need a root canal and a crown...so, the dentist wanted me to fork over some more pocket change at around $3K to have this work done...I nearly fell out of the dental chair!!!! So, I am currently researching dental discount plans so I can have the work done for a little more reasonable price, although no healthcare or dental work is reasonable anymore...unless, of course, you are homeless or have 80 gazillion children or both. Thank goodness it doesn't hurt...yet.

Okay, since I have spent so much of yours and my time on these wonderful topics which are currently part of my life, I will just end with a short thought on gas prices: God was gracious enough to give me enough sense to buy a 4-cyclinder SUV that gets 300 miles to a tank because with gas at a good $2.75+ out here in HOT Texas that could quickly drain your bank account.

Tootles!

Mission: Space....my soapbox

2005-07-29T08:51:00.000-07:00

Just sitting here at my desk skimming over the latest news photos on msn.com and voting on the picture that speaks the most to me; I am again reminded that the space shuttle has made it's way back into, well, space. When I was a child, mom, dad and I would all venture down to the Cape to see the launches. I would just stand there, jaw dropped, in utter amazement! I want to go into space one day and I know that is the dream for a lot of children at some point in their precious lives or at least it was back in the 80's.

Space: The Final Frontier. Hmm..um...well, now the thought of going into space is not as tempting. Maybe it's because of all the disasters that have occured. I'm sure my thoughts of space travel were skewed by the Challenger explosion, but I don't think that is why I'm not interestsed in space any longer. What good would it do me to travel there? Why do Americans need to live on Mars? Or in a space station? It's not like I can get out an witness to the aliens...ha, don't even get me started on that.

I think it's that my expectations are somewhat higher (no pun intended)...I don't want to travel to space...the only time I intend to go up is when my time on earth is through. But, really, what is the point of space travel? Back in the 50's it brought about the Mod look and everyone was "into" space travel and living in space, but it has not been the simple task that, dare I say, the media made it out to be. People wanted to live like The Jetson's, zoom through space in our flying saucers, but here it is the 21st century and there is no glorious chance to live in space...it's all still a dream.

To tell you the truth, I was just glad the space shuttle got into space without exploding. The billions and billions of dollars that are poured into NASA each year seems like somewhat of a waste to me. America is headed to hell and all we can do is think that going into space is somehow going to make our lives better, let us live longer. Reality check: it's not gonna happen. Jesus walked the Earth, not Mars. But humans have this feeling they need to conquer space. Figure it out.

Well, enough about that...just felt I needed to get out my soapbox since it's been in storage recently...

Oh, to post again...

2005-07-28T23:09:00.000-07:00

...hello all...boy, it's been awhile and I do apologize. I often think of posting, usually at the most inopportune time...and when I am on the 'puter, I find I am not in the writing mood.

Wow! I have so much to share! First, and foremost, I am now engaged to Jeff! Yes, he asked me in Tennessee on July 4th...how exciting is that! I am very, very, very happy! And, my ring is gorgeous! If I can get a good shot of it with my digital I will post it. We have no clue when we are going to marry or where, but we're working on it. Thinking of a small wedding here at the church where I work and following it by a small reception at a local bed and breakfast. Michelle, my best friend back home, has volunteered to throw us a reception when we come to Florida which is soooooooooooooo incredibly sweet!

Right now I am dog sitting for my friend and co-worker, Kathy. She and her husband have gone to Colorado for the weekend and I am keeping Katie, their Westie, company for the next few days. It's a nice break and I get to sleep in a real bed! Awesome!

I've just been working and we've been looking for a house or condo to buy.

Jeff is working at Restoration Hardware. If you've never heard of them, check out their website...the have NICE stuff and he gets 40% off!!! He worked there last year and into the beginning of this year and when he called and they figured out who he was, the manager said, "When can you start? Can you start today?" What an answer to prayer. Jeff has been feeling better. He has been sleeping at night which is a miracle and although he is still tired, he seems to be doing somewhat better.

And, yes, we got the piano! I've got some awesome pics to show you! We've learned a lot about it since we got it. It's somewhat rare and what made to look like a box grand piano. Jeff painstakingly took it all apart, I think he has spent over 21 hours working on it, and cleaned it and polishes it weekly. We found out today that it is made of mahogony! Wow! It also has inlaid wood on the sides! It is simple and beautiful! Jeff and I played "heart and soul" (my jazzed up version) the other night. Then I played the top of "Chariots of Fire" and he played the chords...it actually sounded half good! LOL!

Well, I gotta head to bed. I missed work Thursday due to a nasty head/jaw ache. It felt like someone had wacked me in the head with something...I feel so much better now, but because our publications specialist is out this week, I am in charge of finishing the bulletin; so, I'm gonna go in early so I can get it all done. I was able to finish the powerpoint here tonight which puts me ahead and Jeff is going to do two things for me tomorrow, which rocks! He is so giving! He doesn't work tomorrow, so he's gonna help me out! It's not everyday you find a guy like him!

Well, gotta go to beddy by...I'll be sure to post again soon, maybe even tomorrow night. I've got some other pics to post as well, but since I am not at home this weekend...it'll probably be next week before I can post them.

Love and miss everyone! "For I know the plans I have for you...to give you a hope and a future"! God is so good!

Nite, nite...

FUNKYTOWN

2005-06-30T10:19:00.000-07:00

Gonna make a move to a town that's right for me
If time will keep me moving keep me grooving with some energy
Well I'm talking about talking about talking about it
Talking about talking about talking about moving

Gotta move on
Better move on gotta move on

Won't you take me to funky town (x4)

Gonna make a move to a town that's right for me
If time will keep me moving keep me grooving with some energy
Well I'm talking about talking about talking about it
Talking about talking about talking about moving

Won't you take me to funky town (x4)

Take me won't you take me
Take me won't you take me
I wanna go to funky town (x4)

Won't you take me to funky town

There's that couple again...

2005-06-15T19:40:00.001-07:00

There's that couple again...
Originally uploaded by jfnbanana.

I think they are following us!

It Must Be Love

2005-06-15T19:40:00.000-07:00

It Must Be Love
Originally uploaded by jfnbanana.

Can you believe Jeff took this through the glass?

We call them...pengees.

2005-06-15T19:39:00.001-07:00

Penguins
Originally uploaded by jfnbanana.

Mr. Manatee

2005-06-15T19:38:00.001-07:00

Mr. Manatee
Originally uploaded by jfnbanana.

Jeff took this pic through the glass, this was the clearest one after many, many tries...isn't it a cutie?

Inside the Dallas Rain Forest

2005-06-15T19:38:00.000-07:00

Inside the Dallas Rain Forest
Originally uploaded by jfnbanana.

Doesn't it look like we're outside? Well, we aren't...it was just so lush and beautiful there and all the birdies are flying around "free as birds"...

Jeff and Mom, Lisa

2005-06-15T19:37:00.000-07:00

Jeff and Mom, Lisa
Originally uploaded by jfnbanana.

Flame-n-Os

2005-06-15T19:31:00.001-07:00

Flame-n-Os
Originally uploaded by jfnbanana.

Jeff took this picture. Isn't the color beautiful! These were in the Rain Forest.

Dallas Aquarium & Rain Forest

2005-06-15T19:31:00.000-07:00

Dallas Aquarium & Rain Forest
Originally uploaded by jfnbanana.

We visited the aquarium and rain forest on Memorial Day! It was fantastic! If you're ever in Dallas, it is well worth your time!

Here's a pic of the surgery I had

2005-06-15T19:30:00.000-07:00

Here's a pic of the surgery I had
Originally uploaded by jfnbanana.

This is a picture of what my gallbladder surgery was like...I have four nice little scars to prove it was done...yes, one in my belly button! =)

Like Our Piano

2005-06-15T19:29:00.000-07:00

Our Brand Piano!!!
Originally uploaded by jfnbanana.

This resembles our piano, not quite as ornate, but the same style. How exciting!

More Creativity!

2005-06-15T19:28:00.000-07:00

More Creativity!
Originally uploaded by jfnbanana.

Here's Jeff's!

Creativity!

2005-06-15T19:27:00.000-07:00

Creativity!
Originally uploaded by jfnbanana.

Jeff and I handmade cards for our mom's for Mother's Day. Here's mine.

Hmmm...

2005-06-15T19:16:00.000-07:00

Hmmm...
Originally uploaded by jfnbanana.

Not sure I want to know where it got it's name...funny just the same.

Neat Place

2005-06-15T19:15:00.001-07:00

Neat Place
Originally uploaded by jfnbanana.

Okay, we are going back here to purchase some beautiful reproduction antiques after we get into a house! Loved it!

Theater in Granbury

2005-06-15T19:15:00.000-07:00

Theater
Originally uploaded by jfnbanana.

Grandbury, TX

2005-06-15T19:14:00.000-07:00

Grandbury, TX
Originally uploaded by jfnbanana.

This was a neat town that is known for it's bed and breakfast and we took a day trip out there and these are some of the pics we took!

Guy on Tractor

2005-06-15T19:13:00.000-07:00

Guy on Tractor
Originally uploaded by jfnbanana.

Don't think this guy was too thrilled we decided to take his photo...but it was fun anyway! He probaby thought we were from the city and had never seen a tractor driving down the road before, but we were just having fun!

Mesquite Rodeo

2005-06-15T19:03:00.001-07:00

Mesquite Rodel
Originally uploaded by jfnbanana.

World Famous!

Guess Again

2005-06-15T19:03:00.000-07:00

Guess Again
Originally uploaded by jfnbanana.

Here we are at the Rodeo!

You Know You're in Texas when...

2005-06-15T19:02:00.000-07:00

More Rodeo
Originally uploaded by jfnbanana.

...a lot of the men sitting in the stands at the Rodeo have on cowboy hats...better go get myself some rodeo gear!

Guess Who???

2005-06-15T19:00:00.000-07:00

Guess Who???
Originally uploaded by jfnbanana.

We were at a Ranger's Game with David Allen while he was doing a D-Now Weekend!

Piggly Wigglies

2005-06-15T18:59:00.000-07:00

Piggly Wigglies
Originally uploaded by jfnbanana.

Cute piggies from the Mesquite Rodeo! Look at the little babies!

From the shadows, I shall emerge...

2005-06-15T18:36:00.000-07:00

Wow! I really have been off this thing for too long...but I have been so incredibily busy since I got a wonderful job about three weeks ago (more about that later in the post). Hmmm...where should I begin? Well, we did have some sad news, Jeff's grandmother (Lisa's mom) passed away in May and we all traveled to Virginia for the funeral. Jeff inherited this wonderful piano, a Gulbransen, from her. It's beautiful! We had to find a way to ship it out here with it costing and arm, leg and other body parts...and it's on its way as I write. It should be here within the next week or so and when we get it I wil l take pics and post them. I have a ton of pics to post anyway...since we have been on some travels. Anyway, this piano is not like any I've ever seen before and we found out yesterday that is was manufactured in 1939. Instead of looking like a traditional piano when the lid is closed, it resembles a buffet table; it is quite unique! Jeff and Lisa have done some rearranging in order for us to have a place to put it. We are very excited about it coming!!!

Let's see...about my new job. I am employeed with First Baptist Church of Allen, TX, as the Music Assistant. All I can say is God is good!!! I just happened to be surfing church websites one night and came across this one. I opened up their weekly newsletter, The Standard, to find they were seeking an Administrative Assistant! At that point, I nearly fell from my chair...I had been searching high and low for a church job and so I sent an email to a man I later learned was the Administrator. Anyway, after an interview and testing (easiest interivew and testing I've ever done), he called back and offered me the job and it's been fantastic ever since!!! I love it there! What's even funnier is that the Music Minister's name is Jeff as is another guy on staff...so, they're starting "Club Jeff" (ha!ha!). In fact, all the ministers, with the exception of Pastor Chad, their names begin with a "J".

Well, I am about out of words...hard to believe...but true. Everyone take care and I promise to right more later....and for those of you who have been asking me, my home email address is jfnbanana1@yahoo.com.

In Honor of My Friend, Carole DeJarnatt

2005-05-21T11:00:00.000-07:00

I know it's been awhile and I will post more later, but I wanted to share this page with everyone...my friend, Carole DeJarnatt, is an awesome scrapbooker and she made me this fantastic picture before I left Florida and I found it today while hunting for her designs on the web. I just wanted to share her talent with the rest of the world and let her know I think God has given her this wonderful gift and has blessed her with the chance to use it not only to glorify God, but also to share her abilities with others! Way to go, Carole!

Not Only is It BIG in Texas...

2005-04-23T19:34:00.000-07:00

...but it's deep.

Audience Discretion is Advised (18 and under...no not use link)

We actually passed this ranch today on our road trip: http://www.funnyheck.com/cattle.html

Arts, Rodeo, Containers, Church, Cars, Baseball, Home

2005-04-22T10:53:00.000-07:00

Okay, so I'm a little behind on my postings...haven't really been in the mood to post...I'm not ill or anything and actually I have been quite bored because I still am NOT working...but I have to hold on to the promise that God has a plan for me...despite the fact that I haven't been working, I have been doing quite a bit of others things which is nice to a point, but I would still like to be working.

I'll start out with our trip to the Arts Festival in Fort Worth. I had never been to FW and was quite excited just to be going to another city as if Dallas weren't enough. I will attach some pictures of these various events following my post (well, actually they will be above my post...but you get the point). We saw many different types of art from metal and leather sculptures to wonderful pictures of the Amish. Jeff was really interested in these considering he was born in Lancaster, PA. I was as usual interested in the handmade jewelry...some quite remarkable pieces I did see. However, my favorite pictures were the ones of Ireland. They were incredible!!! I want to go there so badly! It has always been my dream...part of my heritage is there...Dutch-Irish am I!

Okay, on to the Mesquite Championship Rodeo...considering all the time I spent growing up in the little, quaint town of Green Cove Springs, Florida, home of the Clay County Fairgrounds, I have never been to a rodeo. I've watched many on TV including the one we went to. And myself, being of little mind sometimes, didn't realize that there is more to the rodeo than just bulls bucking around...there's calf roping, chuckwagon races, little kids riding sheep, bareback riding, saddleback riding, steer wrestling, Tiawana poker, and women's barrell racing! Wow! Plus there was a petting zoo (see the pics), BBQ restaurant, Dodge Truck giveaway, and the gift shop....yep, I was in for more than I had anticipated and it was really FUN!

For anyone who has never been to The Container Store, I urge you to go...at least once. My friend, Colleen, had been telling me for a couple of years now...you gotta go, you gotta go! Take a weekend and drive to Atlanta just to go to this store...I was thinking "I cannot believe you drive all the way to Atlanta from Jacksonville to go to this one store"...well, now I understand why! There are two of them here in our area and Jeff took me to one...okay...I was in love! Tons of boxes, gadgets, everything you could ever want to organize with and I just wanted to buy the pretty boxes to sit around! They have the most awesome selection of wrapping paper! We are talking cool and modern....ooooooo, and I only managed to spend a little over $11 dollars...I did well...I do have to say I am glad the shop is not closer to where I live because I would probably be in debt!!!

For those of you that have been asking...I finally made it to church. We attended Jeff and Lisa's church, Grace Community Church, here in Plano. I wasn't really too sure what to expect, but I was definitely given some insight. This church, as Jeff and I discussed after leaving, is for those who've just accept Christ. The service was okay, but I didn't know any of the music (which is a BIG deal to me...being music-minded) and Jeff informed me that they never sing the same song twice which got me to thinking; how can you worship if you don't know the music? To me, worship is when you don't have to concerntrate on the words because you know them and you can concerntrate on Jesus. I'm not saying the music was bad, because it wasn't...I just didn't feel like I could worship...and after Jeff's comment...I knew I could never worship through music at this church. Another thing that rubbed me the wrong way and I've seen this in other churches, is the fact that the pastor never said "turn in your Bibles" or "Get out your Bibles" or anything to that affect...everything was taken for granted. I didn't even see anyone carrying a Bible besides myself; everyone was relying on the screen and the pastor to lead them through God's word. I followed every bit of scripture in my Bible and found an additional sentence in one of the scriptures that was not in my Bible. Now, I know it was a different translation, but it still bothered me because it was "suggested" that this was what the Bible was saying when, in fact, it could have meant something entirely different. How are people going to be influenced to study God's word and look to the Bible for guidance when they don't even have to open one at church? And this church is geared at reaching the lost and helping them begin a life with Christ? How? Through relying on man? I am attending a women's event there next Friday with Jeff's mom, Lisa, and I will report back as to how it goes.

Here are a few other events we have been to....The Dallas Auto Show...always a favorite of mine. I love auto shows! I like to see what's coming on our roadways...of course, I always have a favorite and this year's was the convertible VW Beetle...they had one in dark gray with two-tone gray and red seats and red trim on the rims of the tires. It was an awesome ride! Then there was the chance to spend an evening with my favorite student pastor ever, Mr. David Allen! He got my boyfriend and I free tickets to the Ranger's Baseball Game! We had a blast even though we couldn't see the game...we got to spend time with David and that was worth it all!

Well...that's about all for now...I'll attach the pics soon!

Home Sweet Home

2005-04-09T11:21:00.000-07:00

Yes, once again, I am still alive. Last weekend, Friday-Sunday, I flew home to Florida. Some of you are probably wondering how that is possible since I have a new job...well, I had a new job. I was rather upset and depressed about losing that particular position, but I don't blame the people in that department...and it wasn't my fault...and God has a plan for everything...so, I have moved on. I must have put my resume in at a zillion places this week and although I still work for ProStaff at Mary Kay, they don't currently have a position for me. I was supposed to begin on Monday in another department proofing and editing and I was really estatic about it, but then I was informed that I was 'over qualified'; now if that doesn't just burst your bubble...I know it sure did mine! At least they could have put me there until the found someone else...but that's okay...

Anyway, Florida was a nice break which I think I really needed after the news of losing my other position...I just needed to get away and visit my dear friends back home. I surprised my Mom and Dod by calling them on Thursday and asking if they would like a visit from their favorite daughter...and of course, they were more than happy to have me home. Plus, I got to see my Tatum...I miss him so! We had a really nice weekend! Friday night I went and spent some much needed time with Michelle and Mikayla! Wow-Mikayla was just so cute and she's always smiling...it's such an encouragement to see her happy as can be...and then Saturday morning my parents and I ventured out for a delicious breakfast at the Atlanta Bread Company. I got a raisin bran muffin...it was sooooooooo yummy! After that, we headed to Pace Island for their yard sale...we had so much fun!!! Of course, I couldn't buy too much because I couldn't carry it all home...seems to me I always end up with an extra bag going home...

Saturday night I met up with Daniel, Amber, and Tara and we went to Karaoke night at El Apache. It was fun, not that we sang, but we got to hear others sing and it took forever to get our food, but it was just as good as I remember it. Afterwards, we went to Daniel's house to watch "Cellular" which is incredibily fast-paced and exciting. Sunday, I went to Ridgewood, and then ate lunch with David, Carol, Gracie, and Zachariah. Gracie and I had several sweet discussions...she is so grown up for her age! I miss David and Carol dearly, so it was nice to spend time with them. Then before I knew it, it was time to head home....of course, had I known I was not going to be working this past week, I would have stayed longer...oh well.

My week was pretty much uneventful except for the first official "hail storm" of the year. You know it doesn't matter where you live, some type of weather is out to get you. Here it happens to be wind and hail. You see, I was returning some clothes in McKinney which is not too far from Plano, but I was a little ways away and it was all sunny and beautiful before I left (calm before the storm, I suppose) and I had no idea it was going to rain much less hail. So, my cell phone rings while I am in Belk and it's Jeff asking me where I am. Then he proceeds to tell me a nasty thunderstorm with hail in it is headed my way...side note: Jeff and I have spent some much needed attention on my Honda CR-V and, well, we didn't want it to get hail damaged, but it was going to take me too long to get back home...so, I decided to ride the storm out in Belk...which if I had had to stay there any longer, my pocketbook would have surely suffered. Turns out the storm in McKinney didn't have any hail, but the one in Plano did..nickel sized. So, I faired rather well, except I got bored in Belk after buying four items totaling a whopping $11.43 and ended up getting soaked to the skin on my way to the car.

Oh, oh, and yes, Jeff bought a smoker a few weeks ago and has been the "iron chef" most nights if it's not too windy or raining; so, he made ham on the grill...it was to die for! I love ham! Plus, we had mac-n-cheese and corn...I was in heaven....Jeff is a grrrrrrrrrreat cook!

Well, I'll post more later...going to the mall to search for some new jeans...

Jeff Driving Penske Truck to Texas

2005-03-31T19:37:00.001-08:00

Tatum Clark-Newman, My Cat

2005-03-31T19:27:00.000-08:00

My Life with Drama in Trama...

2005-03-27T17:51:00.000-08:00

Okay, don't faint, it really is me...I know, you probably figure I have been busy with life, but it's really that I haven't had a life, much anyway except with Jeff, since I arrived in the Big "D". First, obviously you are already well aware if you have been keeping up with my blog, the rug was pulled out from under me by my gallbladder which I have recovered from quite quickly...but, of course, based on my luck (of lack there of) and medical history, I cannot expect everything to work properly for me...it's just a fact of my life that I came to terms with years ago...so, I should have known the gallbladder would not be the end. I MUST have drama...lots of drama...you know I've got to have something to talk about! j/k

So........after my gallbladder removal, yes, everything went well and as I said above, I have healed rather nicely even though my insides are still sore from time to time...I hope to have some pre-surgery pictures to share with you once I figure out how to download them from Jeff's phone. Anyway, as I was saying, I MUST have drama...so, here it is! My left calf began hurting the day after I arrived home from my surgery, but I didn't think much of it because I always have charlie horses in that calf and I just figured it was a cramp. Well, as the week went on and through the weekend while we were out browsing through antique stores at a local town, the pain kept increasing and then I began to worry. Jeff's brother, Mike, wanted to know if I had a blood clot and I laughed it off saying, "I don't think so", but after his comment I did begin to wonder if something else was up...so, Tuesday on my way to work...the drama began. I was trying to park in the garage at work when the security guard on duty proceeded to tell me I couldn't park there without a badge...now, I have been parking there...so, I became somewhat irritated and sped away doing a u-turn and leaving "the scene of the crime". I decided to drive around and gather myself together to go back to work, but it turned out I had a total meltdown. Between the move, the surgery, and the pain in my leg, I was just a mess. I called Jeff and probably scared him half to death because I was sobbing and he wanted to know where I was and I couldn't see the street sign and I kept saying "I don't know", but I was finally able to get my bearings, somewhat, and drive back home. In the mean time, dear Jeff, the wonderful man that he is, made me a doctor's appointment, called Mary Kay to let them know that I was on my way to the doctor and we would give them an update once we knew something, made his mom an appointment as well. We gathered ourselves, Jeff, Lisa, and I, and headed to the doctor. It seemed as if my leg pain was increasing every minute and I was really worried.

Once at the doctor's office, of course, I had to fill out mounds of paperwork while Jeff and his mom went in for her appointment. About the time they were done, it was my turn and I was more than ready. After the dreaded "weigh-in", Jeff joined me. Once the doctor arrived and realized Jeff was back in the room with another woman, he accused Jeff of picking women up in the waiting room and walking them back to see the doctor and staying with them during the visit. However, the doctor informed me that he thought Jeff was harmless and not to worry...it was rather funny!!! The doctor was really nice and he was concerned that it might be a clot as well, so he sent me to Richardson Regional Hospital to have an ultrasound done on my leg. So, we jumped in the car and Jeff drove us there. After arriving and finally figuring out where we needed to be, the woman who we had to deal with was a bit loopy, confused and thought we were speaking too softly...so we RAISED our VOICES and told her the much needed information....some people make me wonder...

After some time passed, I was called back for the ultrasound and the technician told me that I did indeed have blood clots...now see...it had to be dramatic...not only did I have one blood clot, I had THREE!!!!! THREE!!! At this point the technician told me that the doctor would want to admit me back into the hospital because one clot was right behind my knee and anything from the knee up is very dangerous...so, the doctor was called and I told him I wanted to be admitted into Medical Center of Plano and he had me arrange that with my surgeon, Dr. Kantor..wonderful man! So, once again, I was admitted to the hospital and immediately given a shot in my side of Lovonox (a blood thinner) and hooked up to a heartrate/oxygen level monitor...what fun! When Dr. Kantor came in, he told me he wanted me to stay in the hospital until the levels were right for me to stop the shots and just use the coumadin. COUMADIN?!?!?! I remembered David, our Youth Pastor, was on this because of a heart issue and I wasn't the least thrilled to hear this news!

After spending Tuesday through Friday in the hospital, I was released with six more shots to give to myself and at least six months use of Coumadin...which I may have to be on a low dosage for the rest of my life! I will post more later, my hands are tired and I go back to work in the morning!

Photos...I think

2005-03-15T19:28:00.000-08:00

A Couple of Pics for You...

2005-03-15T19:10:00.000-08:00

Here are a couple of pics that Daniel did for me...enjoy!

1. Where I work....MaryKay Headquarters! Awesome place!

2. My moving vehicles after we arrived at the apartments where I am staying for now!

My Gallbladder...or Lack There of...

2005-03-15T15:20:00.000-08:00

Well, for those of you who have been wondering where exactly I wandered off to and haven't heard about my incident, I will share with you where exactly I have been hiding...mind you, this was not by choice, but by extreme discomfort and excruciating pain, that I have been away.

Let me start by saying that the rest of my week at MK was grrrrrrrrrrrrrrreat! Jeff was able to meet me for lunch one day and I got off early Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday at 3:30 p.m. which was really nice! Well, Friday when I got off of work, I was feeling kinda funny in the tummy, so when I got home I went and laid down on the bed for about three hours. I figured I just ate something that was gonna give me distress. So, for dinner I had a bowl and a half of cheerios (I say a half because there was a gob of milk left after the first bowl so I added more cheerios to use up the milk) and sat down on the couch to get ready to enjoy the evening. We all decided to retire for the night around 11 p.m. and after arranging my bed on the couch, I leaned back and began watching t.v. until I could doze off. Well, the dozing never happened. About five minutes after I laid down I got this sharp pain in my back...like a severly pulled muscle on the right side...so, I tried stretching it out, but nothing seemed to work. (Side Note: Back in December, while visiting my aunt and uncle after Christmas, I had this same pain...it lasted for about an hour and then went away, so I decided it was the same thing and it would subside; however, I was wrong...really, really wrong!)

I finally decided to get Jeff and let him know how I was feeling. He came out and tried to massage what we decided was a "kink" in my back...he said he could feel it in my muscle. By this time, it was after midnight and I just kept thinking if I could throw-up I would feel so much relief. So, I made my way to the bathroom and sat on the floor and laid my head on the toilet seat with the lid down. It was so cool in there and the floor and seat felt so good to me...after about 10 or 15 minutes Jeff asked me if I was okay...he kept good tabs on me...and I told him I felt like I was gonna be sick..so thereafter I was....only...I was sick like clockwork every 15 minutes after the first time. By this time, the pain had made it's way around to the front of my abdomin and I asked Jeff if I could turn on the computer to look at WebMD...because I thought for sure this was my gallbladder acting up. So, I turned on the bright, blinding computer screen and proceeded to diagnose myself with a gallbladder issue. Not knowing how long this issue might remain one, I decided I needed to go to the Emergency Room.

So, I threw on some clothes and clipped my hair back as best I could and Jeff swept me away to the ER which seemed like it was an eternity away. He cautiously drove through several red lights realizing that my condition was not improving one bit...at this point the plastic bag I was clutching to was getting far too much attention...if you get my drift. When we finally arrived at the ER, Jeff dropped me at the front door and I finally found my way to the check in window and proceeded to try to write my name when Jeff arrived to take over. They took me back for the general screening of your temperature, blood pressure, and questions about exactly why you have decided to make your way to the ER at 1:40 a.m. so you can writhe in pain until they have a place to put you. So, I told them my thoughts on the issue and they proceeded to continue with agonizing paperwork while I stood up, sat down, and wanted desperately to just lay down on the nasty hospital floor...anything to relieve the pain. "So, what is your pain on a scale of 1 to 10?" 11?!?! Hello? Can you not see that I keep repeating "I hurt", "Owweee", and another number of painful words while grabbing at my side and leaning over to try to relieve some of this PAIN....this all ends with "I'm sorry, you'll have to go back to the waiting room because all our beds are full (what??? I'm dying here!!!), but you are way ahead of most people on the list." Who, everybody but the old lady who keeps staring at me like I have three heads??? So, we sat...or Jeff sat and tried to hold me and calm me down, but when you're in pain like that...or at least I felt this way, I didn't want anyone or anything touching me. I told him I was sorry, but I just hurt................like the fiery inferno below us.

As I continued to be sick, I could hear these ladies behind me saying how I needed to go to the bathroom to throw up and didn't they tell me that at the desk. Then there was a guy with his son there...and he was just staring at me like he had never seen a sick person before...I am sorry, but I am ill. I have every right to be here...just as much as all the other sickies do...I just happen to be a little sicker!!!!!!!! Anyway, after making my way to the toilet to proceed with my problem....there I am again...being riticuled by the eyes of the old lady who kept staring at me that was sitting outside the toilet door. Geez, people, get a life. I hope I don't stare at people in Emergency Rooms...it is so impolite!

So, after sending Jeff to tell them I was heaving blood...they decide I am worth their time and find me a room....five hours later...after having an abdominal ultrasound, blood taken, hours of Jeff sitting there with me...loving on me and telling me I am beautiful despite the fact that I'm sure I look like death warmed over...let me repeat myself....FIVE hours later...we finally see a doctor. Nice guy. Tells me I need to have my gallbladder out immediately so I don't suffer anymore pain. He came back a few minutes later to tell me they could schedule the surgery for Saturday afternoon....and I said "Go for it!" I didn't want to deal with this pain ever again!!!!

To say the least..the rest of the night and next day are somewhat of a blur. Between pain meds and rides on a gurney, poor Jeff stayed up 38 hours without any sleep to be with me, by my side, answering questions for me, taking good care of me...I think I owe him about a million kisses...so I guess I better get started...he's worth every one! I couldn't have done this without him!!! =)

Soooooooooooooooooooo....that's where I've been hiding. I will report back with more details later....I am recovering well at home for now and won't go back to work until next Monday so I can fully recover.

The Slacker is Back....er...I think

2005-03-08T18:04:00.000-08:00

Yes, you can all breath easy now...I am still very much alive...just very busy and very tired. I am enjoying everything and enjoying sleep although my sleep has been a bit of a problem the last couple of nights. (Note: Jeff wants me to let you all know that he is not running around the house at night like a banshee waking me from my sleep...it's not his fault in other words. =)) And it's not that I don't like the couch because it's super cool, it's leathter and it's really comfy...not quite as comfy as my chair, but close.

I have been trying to use the "hello" picture thing to post pics on here, but it is still not agreeing with my computer, but I WILL work on it when I have a chance....maybe tomorrow night.

Okay, let me tell you about Canton! It was H-U-G-E!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! A monstronsity! I was rather amazed! They say it takes three full days to see everything and I believe that. I'm not even sure we covered 1/3 of it because it's so BIG! They have a little bit of everything there....junk...good finds...crafts...food...new items...food...antiques.. we had big, juicy hamburgers and later Jeff and I shared a footlong corndorg! It was the best! I did buy a couple of things...the first one is a scary wreath that reminds me of the movie "The Village" every time I look at it, but it is just so cool! I know you are thinking "a scary wreath"????? But it's true...from what we could figure it is made from an Elka bush/tree. Jeff hung it above his bed for safe keeping until I get moved and it fills the space really well. He has been very relieved that it has not fallen off the wall and attacked him in the middle of the night, the scary beast that it is...really...I will have to get a pic on here so you can understand what I mean...I am not crazy!!!!!

Second, I purchased a package of spicy dip...it tasted really good!!! We are going to get some sour cream and mix it together this week and enjoy it!!!! Yum! Yum! Finally, I bought a sterling silver ring that is very unique. It has a square on the front that features a square turquoise with different colored stones around it. I will picture it when I get the pics up as well.

Well, onto MK! My first day was..........................fantabulous!!!! I really enjoyed myself! I work on the 6th floor for the Sales Dept. in the Sapphire Sales Development Division. I have a really great cubicle-like area by a big window...so I get to see outside...how awesome is that?!?!?! I am going to be answering the phone in that area...which is a breeze because once I learn the business, the phone calls are very minimal compared to RBC. I am also using a database there called PROD...it reminds me of ACS (automated church system) that I used at RBC, but some of it is manual and some is mouse-friendly. Most of my work involves mail-merges, mailings, etc. It is going to be very busy at times, but the girl who is training me, Traci...her last day is next Tuesday and then I'm going to be in the Dept. "by myself" for the rest of the week! I think they thought that I was going leave after the first 1/2 day because one of the sales team members said, "Oh, I am so glad you came back! We thought you wouldn't after you went to lunch!" Of course, she was more kidding than anything...but it made me feel good! I told them I understood that this was a busy time and that things would be different in a couple of weeks after everyone is back from Career Conferences.

So............that has been my life for the last few days! Before I go, just wanna give a "shout out" to Resa for her continued support of my blog even when I'm not consistent! To Mom & Dod for the great emails about the "culvert" and sending their love! To my dear friend, Sarah, who hopefully still likes me even though I didn't call her when I arrived to TX...and to Jeff...who is sitting here with me because he has done sooooooooooo much to make my transition a lot more bearable!!!! I love you all!

Canton Trade Days

2005-03-04T15:08:00.000-08:00

http://www.cantontradedays.com/index.htm

This where we are going on Saturday! I am soooooooooooo excited! I will post back with more info later!

Mary Kay Girl, On Her Way!

2005-03-02T17:35:00.000-08:00

Well, I guess you can tell by my heading that I got the job! I do want to share my experience of this interview with you. As I was driving down the tollway with my change cup in hand (I have to wait until I get my license/registration to get a "toll tag") looking for the exit to Mary Kay. It's the enormous building that I have seen from the tollway several times, but Jeff wasn't sure exactly where it was. So, I got off as soon as I saw the building which I must say was quite intimidating. I was thinking to myself how I've never worked in a building that large, but I was pretty excited as well.

I had a bit of a problem locating parking though. Because I came off at the exit past MK, I ended up driving under the building and out the other side and doing a u-turn and going back to the parking garage. The lady told me yesterday to park in front of the building and go in through the front doors...but for the life of me I couldn't find the front of the building. I know that sounds hilarious, but I pulled up the the parking garage and pressed the "call" key and a nice gentlemen directed me to exit the parking garage and make three rights and then I would be in front of the buliding. I told him I was "a bit confused" and he chuckled which eased my mind for the moment. So, I made the three rights and sure enough there I was at the front of this beautiful building! Of course, there were pink cadillacs all over the place which struck me as odd since the parking I was directed to was for Human Resources and Visitors-but I guess if you have a pink caddie you want others to know it. However, there were not any parking places there, so I ventured out the the other side of the building and ended up having to make a parking space next to a handicapped space. I am quite sure that was against the rules, but a truck behind me did the exact same thing. There just wasn't any parking available!!! That would be my first suggestion to MK-get more ground level parking. The parking lot is rather stunning as well. The entire thing is brick. There are waterfalls outside the main entrance as well as a circular drive all done in brick. Yes, quite stunning indeed...

...but that was only the beginning! I walked up the the building to find these massive glass doors with gold handles, as I walked in I began to realize that everything was done in marble. It was absolutely fabulous and immaculate! I didn't even see the smallest fingerprint or smug on any of the glass doors which lined all the corridors, it was quite amazing!!!! As I made my way to the front desk manned by three security officers, I passed the MK Credit Union and a tiny (well, it seemed tiny in the scheme of things) MK Museum which I will have to visit one day on my lunch break. So, I made my way to the front desk and asked for Rhonda "Tillis"; however, there is not a Rhonda Tillis, but there is a Rhonda Willis...opps, I goofed! And it's not that I was nervous because I honestly was not nervous at all. After Rhonda arrived she took me over the the Human Resources office and I was tested for MSWord, Excel, Powerpoint and typing speed. Word and Excel were a little nerve wracking, but I just tried my best. I guessed on a couple of things and got them right which was nice. I sure was glad I brushed up on my Excel skills last night because that helped a whole lot!!! I ended up scoring pretty good all around and can still type 59WPM accurately....amazing!!! I then had to fill out some lovely paperwork up on the eighth floor and take some more testing on my grammar and math skills. Let me tell you...when you don't use it, you lose it! I was having a real problem dividing and multiplying! I had to think really hard about how to figure that stuff out. Sad.

Well, I start the job on Monday which gives me time to get my other stuff worked out and buy a couple of new suits, any excuse to go shopping!!! =) And, thanks to Resa for her really wonderful comment...that means a lot to me!

Monster.com

2005-03-01T10:10:00.000-08:00

Wow! I am living proof that Monster.com works! I have an interview with Mary Kay's Corporate office tomorrow which is so interesting and so strange. I am not by any means a MK kinda girl, but the position sounds good. Fast paced, busy, busy, busy, multitasking job using MSPublisher (which I love), Excel (gonna have to brush up on those skills a little tonight), typing, mass(ive) mailings, answering phone for consultants which sounds fun, etc. The only thing really scary about the whole thing is I have to wear suits...matching suits....of which I own two plus one that I could make into a suit. I've always liked suits, but never really had a reason to wear any. Watch out Ebay..here I come! I almost had to say "no way" to the lady who called because she orginally said "skirt suits", but then added that you can wear "pants suits"...whew! Also, no opened toed shoes which is not a problem either since all my dress shoes are closed toed.

I do think it is pretty awesome that they actually do search resumes on Monster.com. I posted mine there about 3 weeks ago, but never really expected to hear anything from anyone. The pay for this job is much, much better and the hours are the same as my previous job which is cool.

Well, off to CVS and the Honda Dealership for the much dreaded inspection...as noted in my last post. Hopefully, it won't be like I remembered since I will be the driver. Oh, yippee! Jeff just told me that the honda people do all the testing for you! Praise the Lord! See, God is good! As if I didn't know that already...and he used to be a state inspector which I didn't know either....wow, been fretting all this time and he knew all along...I think I'll go have a talk with him now (j/k).

We Made It!

2005-02-28T18:00:00.000-08:00

Yippee! I am officially a "Texan" now! Yippee-yi-yay! Heeeeeeeee-hawwwwwwwww! Okay, now that I got all those goodies out of my system...I'll give you the latest news. We survived the trip here with only minor difficulties with our car hauler...one breakaway box and two new tires (btw, got the money back on the trailer thanks to awesome Jeff...saved me $238.50 so that paid for the gas) later we were on our way!!!! We arrived safe and sound on Saturday afternoon. We have since put all my earthly treasures...including my beloved chair which made the trip safe and sound thanks again to Jeff...who is sitting behind me while I am writing this.

Let me tell you...you can see for miles out here...I was thinking to myself "where are all the trees?" Well, let me correct myself, you can see for miles out here if you are somewhat out of town because Plano being the ritzy area that it is has millions and millions and millions of houses!!! It's utterly amazing! There are more houses everyday! We did stop by and look at an unfinished condo like I am interested in today! Niiiiiiiiiiice. And everything is BIG out here. The U-haul storage center is all one BIG building, not the little strips like we have in Florida. It's a two story monstrosity! Very, very nice though. I am going to have to adjust to the traffice lights and the bumps in the road instead of lines, but Plano (thank goodness) is laid out like a grid so there is not much chance of getting lost.

I did make a rather large decision not to persue the job at Prestonwood. I was shocked to learn that the rate of pay was quite lower than I expected. I do not think I could have survived on that amount to live on my own. So, back to the drawing board. Don't get me wrong, pay was not the only thing I considered...I prayed and I just had that gut feeling that it wasn't right. I always think that is God's way of letting me know to keep going, keep searching. He's got the right one for me somewhere.

Well, enough boring info. We go to open my bank account tomorrow and get my vehicle inspected which I am NOT looking forward to at all. Not because my vehicle is scary or anything, but because I remember going for inspections when I was a kid. I always hated them because I was in the backseat and dad would have to slam on the brakes and one time I was so scared that I got down in the floorboard with my hands over my head. After that, mom said I didn't have to go again. Funny what you are scared of as a child. Which brings me to another hilarious thought from childhood...I was scared of the Pirates of the Carribean at Disney World. I thought they were really shooting at me!!! I think I embarassed my mom to death! I know I scared my cousin, Paulette, into thinking the same thing. That was really dumb...I was old enough to know better. Well, off to bed!

Stuff and the Chair

2005-02-22T02:10:00.000-08:00

Wow! I have gotten rid of so much stuff!!! Keith & Shawn can really vouch for that. They helped me move last time and they told me they would have to see it to believe it...well, now they are believers! However, I still have a bunch of stuff!!! For one thing, those of you who know me (no comments, please) that I am not exactly organized. It's not that I am a total disaster, but I have bills and paperwork stuck just about every place in the house! It's amazing! And to think if I just took a little time every week to sort through it all, I could file it in a file cabinet and it would look so much tidier and smaller...but I absolutely despise filing!!! I guess it's because I have to do that at work and it's just sooooooooooo boring! I'm gonna try to do better at that...either that or I'll leave a little pile for Jeff, aka Mr. Tidy, to file for me! He loves to do stuff like that...

Okay, so I've gotten a lot handled in the last day or so. Kinda messed me up because I forgot it was President's Day on Monday and I couldn't go to the bank or post office; so, I will do that Tuesday. I've scheduled everything to be cut-off, unplugged, disconnected, etc. so at least that is done! Yay!

I did get the most awesome gift today! Mom, Dad, and I were at the Avenues on Saturday evening and....let me back up a second...we had been looking for me a comfy chair before all these big changes and events began to transpire before Christmas. We searched high and low and, yes, I am picky when it comes to some things, I just wanted the chair to "talk to me" when I saw it. Well, there wasn't any conversation...anywhere. A few close calls, but the right chair just hadn't come along yet. Back to Saturday, mom and I ended up going in the Bombay Company because we hadn't been in one in awhile. So, there we are browsing through the store looking at all the beautiful items minding our own business and all of the sudden, from out of nowhere, I look in front of me and there it is...this awesome leather chair...I thought I heard it whispering to me "come, take and seat and see that I was meant for you". I sat down in it and instantly knew it was perfect!!! Fit me great as far as seat length and height is concerned. I was in awe; however, I was almost afraid to look at the ticket...but it was on sale!!! Nearly half off! Mom and I looked it over and ended up leaving and not purchasing it (which was okay because we would not have had any way to get it home)...so, my most wonderful mother told me on Sunday that she called the Bombay at the Orange Park Mall and that they had the same chair in stock and that it was an add'l 10% off due to the President's Day Sale! Rock on, Mom!!! So, today we went and scoped it out and I got it! I got it! It is just so beautiful...an nice mocha color...not too dark, but not too light...I can't wait to get settled out there so, I can enjoy my new, comfy chair! Yay, Mom and Dad! Thanks for your help and the gift! It's the greatest and I'll have it for many, many years of enjoyment!

Well, if any of you have figured it out yet..I am typing this at two o'clock in the morning EST. My sleep cycle is on the fritz. So, my eyelids are feeling heavy again...so, I'll be back at least once more before the big trip!

MOOOOOOOOOVING!

2005-02-17T23:13:00.000-08:00

Welcome family, friends, strangers...to my blog! Hopefully, I can keep in contact with you much easier this way! My friend, Resa, in Korea keeps us informed of her life and I thought it would be a good way for ya'll (trying to use that Texas terminology as much as possible before arriving) to see what's happening in my world!

Obviously, I am preparing to move. I keep having to go back to work to keep Keith from losing any more hair than is necessary (love ya, man...you've been very patient with me...thank you); so, maybe, just maybe, Friday will really be my last "inneroffice" day. Mrs. Cathy Baird will be assisting me with some packing Friday morning and Keith/Shawn/Colleen, my faithful packers, will be assisting me Friday evening. I keep telling Shawn there is WAY less stuff than last time, but I think she and Keith are going to have to see it to believe it! But they are AWESOME and I hope they know how much all their help means to me!

Considering this is my first "real" move to foreign territory...there is SO much involved! I've got a checklist at least two miles long that I keep wondering if it will ever get handled! I also have a HUGE praise/prayer request. I have a phone interview Tuesday morning with Prestonwood Baptist Church in Plano for a position there as a Student Ministries Assistant. That job would rock..only because I have already worked with the best...David and all the youth workers at RBC! Okay, you can now pop your swelled heads. Of course, it is a gigantic church 'cuz everything is bigger in Texas...check out their website...www.prestonwood.org.

Well, enough for now. I love to write and I'm sure if you check back often you will figure this out! Please share your prayer requests and update me on your life as much as you'd like. I might not always note every comment, but please know that I will read them and want to know what is going on in your lives!

I love you all, family, friends, RBC...and, well, strangers...love one another.