Family Time at the Holidays

This is a hilarious picture. Ever feel like the holidays is just like that...you might feel like you get too much of the family time...or perhaps, their thoughts and ideas for your life take away the space between you.




Well, I'm glad to have family...crazy or semi-normal...too much advice or love...I love spending time with family and friends. I have been feeling very anxious about becoming a parent. It's a crazy road to go down, but I have wanted this for a very long time.




I'm hoping that I will be able to show my kids love, comfort and direction without ending up like this picture. I know it will not be easy. I have control issues that I'm working on. I trust God to guide and direct me...to correct me when I misguide or judge. May each of you enjoy your family and friends....may God guide us in balancing life.




There is so much I have learned from my family and friends...some good...some not how I'd like to do it...but I have learned nonetheless...and I'm very thankful for each and everyone of them.




May God direct us into helping people...family or friends...or strangers...to their full potential in life. Be a block that helps them climb the mountain, instead of a stumbling block! :) That's what I'm hoping to be for my future children...my family...my friends...my co-workers..and strangers I meet...it will not be easy...because I know how much I get in the way...but I am going to do my best...and pray everyday that God pushes me aside!

Old quotes I had saved on my computer

There may be more to learn from climbing the same mountain a hundred times than by climbing a hundred different mountains. -Richard Nelson

The person who says it cannot be done should not interrupt the person who is doing it. -Chinese Proverb

If you spend your whole life waiting for the storm, you’ll never enjoy the sunshine.
-Morris West

When you suffer and lose, that does not mean you are being disobedient to God. In fact, it might mean you're right in the center of His will. The path of obedience is often marked by times of suffering and loss. - Chuck Swindoll

In ordinary life we hardly realize that we receive a great deal more than we give, and that it is only with gratitude that life becomes rich. -Dietrich Bonhoeffer

Embrace your uniqueness. Time is much too short to be living someone else's life.
-Kobi Yamada

I have a 'Play The Melody' philosophy. It means don't over-arrange, don't make life difficult. Just play the melody—and do it the simplest way possible. -Jackie Gleason

Even if you’re on the right track, you’ll get run over if you just sit there.
-Will Rogers

You can't keep blaming yourself. Just blame yourself once, and move on.
-Homer Simpson

The person who removes a mountain begins by carrying away small stones.
-Anonymous

COULD IT BE...................................

When I was a little girl, I dreamed big...and prayed a lot....and when I say a lot....I mean a lot...that God would create in me a miracle from His hands, will and grace...where me and my hubby would come together....to make a beautiful addition to our family...and now....can I get a drum roll please...and a big shout out to God with a Praise HIM...........WE ARE FINALLY PREGO and I am just finishing up my first trimester...beware of an ever growing tummy, tears of joy and shouts out to God.

I never thought it would be this hard, but it is worth every minute of suffering...through trying to fight myself....my doubts ...keeping hope....and watching it all pass by me...until now....now I will get to be like the little lady pictures above...I will have the blessing of experiencing all the craziness that comes with the baby in my tummy life. PRAISE God for all of you not giving up...and for a lot of you....giving me a shoulder to cry on...and dropping to your knees in prayer for us! I love you all......PRAY NOW....for a healthy baby....pregnancy....birth....and life....that Michael and I can be the best parents for our miracle....that we'll step aside and let God do the work.

PRAISE GOD! PRAISE GOD! PRAISE GOD! PRAISE GOD! PRAISE GOD! PRAISE GOD! PRAISE GOD! PRAISE GOD.....TO INFINITY!

THE FLU

Just to let all my peeps out there that are wondering...has she survived this thing?....is she dead?....what's going on?....well, the flu has literally kicked my butt. I'm still offline, but wanted to check in just for a quick minute.

Ever try to get up to go to the bathroom and sweat to death by just the efforts it takes to do so? Well, that gives you some insight for how I'm doing. I'm ready for this thing to say goodbye. One of my really good friends made a hilarious remark....at least God didn't take an organ this time to slow you down.....now I have to admit that is funny...I've been praising God for sparing another organ.

I hope all of you are taking care of yourselves, because this is not fun....not even close to a good time. Thanks for all the prayers. Love you!

Dancing in th Rain

Life isn't about waiting for the storm to pass...

It's about learning to dance in the rain.


This is an awesome saying. I think I shall keep dancing through all the storms that hit my life. God is so good in making things very clear to me. I just tend to hide behind clouds when I'm not getting the lesson I'm supposed to learn. I tend to sulk and flounder! It's not fun having the pity parties, yet it's so easy to get to....well...............

I just have to say that today....I LOVE MY LIFE...I LOVE DANCING...bring on the storms, because I will learn how to dance during each of them...even if it takes me some time to get the lesson!

Start dancing today! There is so much that happens in our lifetime...learning how to get through it...surviving it...is an accomplishment that gets us through the next one! Good luck!

Swine Flu Pic

SWINE FLU EPIDEMIC PICTURE

This was sent to me in an e-mail today. Someone had some time on their hands, which I am thankful. Sometimes you need a little humor amongst the not so good.

Mouse Problems

Oh yes, I said MOUSE...and actually MICE Problems. I've had more people talk about mice problems than ever before. We are actually cursed/blessed with these creatures. I'm not happy at all! I've always associated mice with filth...and if you've ever been to my house...it is close to spotless most the time. AGHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!

Any ways, we have tried sticky pads, self containing traps and green poison, but they are not going away. It's very frustrating....extremely frustrating. I'm hoping that "Just One Bite" will actually work. Michael is supposed to go buy it today....so pray for us. The babies may look cute, but it's not cute at all. It's gross and disgusting! I've been going to extreme cleaning mode, which is driving Michael crazy.

I just want this to be resolved. We've never had to deal with them in our married life, so I guess it was time for our turn...I just don't like it. I will say....lots of people are dealing with this very problem...so Good luck to all of you dealing with it. One of my friends gave me some major advice so I thought I'd share. By the way....our mice have started leaving green droplets...so we know they are eating the poison, but they seriously are super mice...never thought I'd meet a rodent as stubborn as myself. :)


Mouse Control

Mice, mostly active at night, often invade homes during the fall months when outdoor temperatures become colder. Mice contaminate food for humans, pets and livestock. They can damage structures and property.

Mice, being so small, can gain entry to homes and buildings quite easily. They are excellent climbers, can leap twelve inches from the floor onto a flat space. Mice can squeeze through openings ¼ inch across. To effectively control mice involves sanitation, exclusion, and population reduction.

Sanitation and exclusion are preventative measures. Clean up areas that provide mouse habitat, and block access to home and buildings. Block openings with steel wool or foam insulation products. However, once a mouse infestation already exists, trapping or baiting is almost always a necessity to reduce populations.

Trapping works well when mice are not numerous or can be used as a follow-up measure after a baiting program. If you trap, you have a choice of snap traps or multi-capture live traps. Place traps where you see mice activity. Key sites are along walls, dark corners, or any site that shows mouse activity. Place traps no more than ten feet apart where you see mouse activity. Peanut butter is good bait for snap traps.

An alternative to traps are glue boards. Place glue boards near walls where mice travel. Do not place glue boards where children or other pets can reach them. If-non-target animals get caught on a glue board they can be removed by using vegetable oil as a solvent.

If you use baits to control mice be sure to read and follow all instructions. Most baits use an anticoagulant, to cause mouse death. Anticoagulants cause death due to internal bleeding the anticoagulant baits provide good to excellent mouse control when placed in suitable locations for mice. Anticoagulants have the same effect on all warm-blooded animals, but sensitivity to these toxins varies among species. If misused, anticoagulants can cause death to pets, livestock or desirable wildlife that feed on the bait. Residues of anticoagulants that may be present in bodies of dead or dying rodents can cause toxic effects to scavengers or predators. However, this secondary effect is relatively low where baits are used properly.

Baits often in pellet form, are packaged in plastic or cellophane packets to keep baits fresh and to be easily placed into burrow walls or other locations. Place baits no more than ten feet apart where mice are active.

Bait stations are useful when putting out baits. They protect the baits from weather and provide a safeguard to people, pets and wildlife. A bait station should have two openings one inch in diameter and should be large enough to accommodate several mice at one time.

FOOTBALL IS HERE

I am very excited about watching my OSU Cowboys this season. We almost didn't get season tickets this year, but my hubby felt we'd regret if we didn't buy them. He was right...I know...here's a time that a wife is saying her husband is right. HAHAHAHA

Anyways, I'm sending a prayer up to all football players for their safety and drive. May our Cowboys blow away their opponents each game. I'd love to see us at the National Champions...one can hope! We've definitely put the time in! Here's this year's schedule!


2009 Oklahoma State University GAME SCHEDULE

Date Opponent / Event Location Time / Result

09/05/09 vs. Georgia Boone Pickens Stadium 2:30 p.m. CT
09/12/09 vs. Houston Boone Pickens Stadium 2:30 p.m. CT
09/19/09 vs. Rice Boone Pickens Stadium 6:00 p.m. CT
09/26/09 vs. Grambling St. Boone Pickens Stadium 6:00 p.m. CT
10/10/09 at Texas A&M College Station, Texas TBA
10/17/09 vs. Missouri Boone Pickens Stadium TBA
10/24/09 at Baylor Waco, Texas TBA
10/31/09 vs. Texas Boone Pickens Stadium TBA
11/07/09 at Iowa State Ames, Iowa TBA
11/14/09 vs. Texas Tech Boone Pickens Stadium TBA
11/19/09 vs. Colorado Boone Pickens Stadium 6:30 p.m. CT
11/28/09 at Oklahoma Norman, Okla. TBA
12/05/09 Big 12 Championship Arlington, Texas 7:00 p.m. CT

Night Owl

I can't seem to break my habit of being a night owl. I get so energetic right before needing to be in bed. My body really needs the repair time, but I just can't get myself to bed. I thought I'd look up "Night Owl" just to see what I could find. I guess I am a Type A personality, but a B-person when it comes to sleeping. Are you a night owl?

Here's what Wikipedia has to offer:

Night owl (person)
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Jump to: navigation, search
For other uses, see Night Owl.

Owls are often nocturnal.
Night owl is a term used to describe a person who tends to stay up until late at night. Another name for a night owl is evening person.
The term is derived from the primarily nocturnal habits of the owl. Usually, people who are night owls keep awake past midnight and extreme night owls may stay awake until just before or after dawn. Night owls tend to feel most energetic just before they go to sleep at night.
Some night owls have a preference or habit for staying up late, or stay up to work the night shift. Night owls who work the day shift often have a problem with being on time to work. Some night owls who have great difficulty adopting normal sleeping and waking times may have delayed sleep phase syndrome.
The opposite of a night owl is an early bird, a lark as opposed to owl, someone who tends to begin sleeping at a time that is considered early and also wakes early.
In several countries, early birds are called "A-people" and night owls are called "B-people". Researchers traditionally use the terms morningness and eveningness.[1]

Communication Mix-up

This made me laugh! Enjoy!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-YFRUSTiFUs

Finding a Way

I kicked off my 2nd Staycation for the year 2 Saturdays ago. My family came to see us to celebrate three of our birthdays! I love when my parents come this way! Any ways, we ended up shopping after eating at Los Cabos...YUM! I found this little treasure, which reminds me that one of my top ten things to do before I'm 40 is take a 3 to 5 day hiking trip.

I'm not saying it will be any time soon, but trying on the backpack reminded of something that's happening in my life....yes, God is preparing me for the next "mountain" that I will climb...not sure what it is...but I want to gather all the "equipment I've gathered over climbing other mountains....buckle up...and get ready for the journey.

I think I'm finding a way through all the craziness that has developed over the years. I have lost some battles...and won many...but I do know one thing...I've survived by the grace of God! YAY! I'm a survivor...sometimes it may not have looked pretty...perhaps even rough...but I survived. We each face our own battles...we each have different ways to fight them...we each come out of it in a different way.

May you find your way...your path...and survive...live...and take it all in.

I have been reminded so much over the last year why I started my blog...and called it Climbing the Next Mountain...I'm glad I did...because it reminds me to keep climbing. There are so many of us in this world suffering...feeling beaten up...yet we survive every day. May you remember where you've been, where you are and where you are going!

Just do one thing...keep climbing...keep trying to find a way...the gutter is sometimes the easiest, but in actuality is the hardest. Life is unpredictable...we have no control. May God equip you in finding a way!

Music

My new obsession....I love his music. Robert Pattinson may be portraying Edward Cullen...and doing a very nice job at that...but I love his music. Everything that I've looked up finds me trying to dig for more. He isn't going to be recording an album any time soon, but I'm glad there are some out there. He's very musically talented. Go to http://www.airmp3.net/search/robert_pattinson/mp3/a to hear some of his songs that do exist. Not all the links work. I would love for him to record an album...here's to wishful thinking...Enjoy!

Burning Desire To Transform

For the phoenix to rise from the ashes
One must know the pain
To transform the fire to burning desire.

8's Just One Day Late

Okay, I'm one day late on telling 8 more favorite things on any given topic. I actually got to sleep in this morning to catch up on some much needed sleep. God is so good to me. So here are my favorite things that God has given me today. Now keep in mind...there are 1,000's of things that God has given me, these just top the 8 on today's list.

1. Jesus Christ dying on the cross for all our sins! FORGIVENESS!

2. The Bible

3. An amazing church!

4. My christian brothers and sisters...my family!

5. The ability to walk, see, speak, hear and think.

6. 2nd chances....a purpose in life!

7. Music....praise and worship as my favorite!

8. LIFE (even when I don't understand it)

Now it's your turn....what are your favorite things God has given you? I praise Him for loving me even when I don't deserve it....because He says I am worthy of it.....PRAISE GOD!

8's

Already a week has gone by...time is crazy...so with that being said...if I had time...here are my top 8 things I would like to be doing:

1. Visiting family and friends (There's never enough quality time to see my peeps like I'd like to)!
2. Cleaning out the clutter (I know...it's twisted, but I love to organize).
3. Updating my IPOD...so much music that I own needs to be added.
4. Read the books I've bought over the years (there are a lot).
5. MOVIES...watching all types of movies....I love movies...they are a great escape.
6. Scrapbooking....I have tons of pics that I'd love to put in my empty books.
7. Workout...oh how I miss working out...especially with my running buddies...don't give up on me!
8. Traveling...going to places I haven't been...but having time to take pics and explore.

Yes, these are just some of the things that I'd love to do when I have some time....hopefully on my upcoming staycation...that would be nice. I do manage to squeeze a few of these every now and then. What about you....if you had time...what would you do?

Life

HAHAHAHAHA This cartoon is hilarious. It reminds me of people or situations in my life in the past and present. :) Sometimes it's just this easy to see, but difficult for others to adjust to anything. And when I say anything...it can be life choices, procedures, missions, programs, etc. If only we all could see the proper arrangement of the cheese slices in all we do...what an easier life it'd be. :) Here's to all of us seeing the beauty of the proper arrangement of cheese slices...and making it happen...this goes for anything in our life...anything and everything. :) Because putting down cheese is more than just putting it down...it's about making anything we do, beautiful and fullfilling. NOW THAT'S SOMETHING TO SMILE ABOUT....doing something to the fullest.

8's Day

For this week's favorite 8 things, I've chosen smells.

1. Rain: it can smell so good...it reminds me that things can be washed again and again and again...a starting over.
2. Roses: so sweet!
3. Babies: They always have that baby powder smell...it's also a reminder of innocents and a hopeful future...miraculous smell!
4. Snuggles Fabric Softener: Just lifts me up and makes me float.
5. Amber Sensual: though Bath and Body took away from wall scent...they still have it in lotion form...it is magnificent!
6. Food: I just love homemade food...especially something baking in the oven...you know it's almost done when it starts to fill the house with pure sugary goodness....yummy!
7. Husband: he has some awesome cologne now...let's just say it's very very nice! :) *giggles and smiles*
8. Romance Perfume...my absolute favorite....I just get lost in it...it's so pure and refreshing...and makes me feel beautiful.

Okay, there are so many more smells that I love. These are just some of them. Now your turn, tell me your top 8 smells. Praise God for my nose...especially that it works for the most part! :) HAHAHAHAHA I look forward to finding out your smells!

TIME

Just when I think I'll get some time...I am totally wrong. I feel like my schedule is so penciled in that I can't do much else. I think I am destined...perhaps all of us are destined to deal with balancing life struggles for a long time. I used to think I wanted 48 hours in a day, but I would just somehow get that scheduled tight up and wanting more time. :)

I look forward to getting back to somewhat of a normal life in about 3 weeks. DC was a blast with the 4-H'ers and Extension Staff. We learned so much. It made me a little depressed in getting a behind the scene look of where our country is headed. We take most things for granted. If only our past leaders could see what we have done to this country. Actually, I'm hoping they don't ever have to see it. I just pray we can get headed into a better direction.

I do hope...yes...HOPE...that each person can take a break in time and see where they are going. What if we could all just do our part. The "what if" world was fading away in my life. I had decided I didn't want to live in the "what if" world any more....well...I was wrong. If I leave the "what if" world behind, then I am losing my hope...and let me tell you...no hope is not a good place to live.

It sucks! I want to dream big and believe that anything is possible. I know that not every dream will come true, but some of them can come true. I have to believe! Believe God will help me continue to find the positive things in life...to hope for a bigger and brighter future...to believe that I am meant for something...more than even what I am doing right now.

REDEFINING MY LIFE...this is the stage I am at in my life. Liking it or not...I must buckle up and speed forward. I want to believe that there is more to life than to expand the population. I think that each of us can relate to having to want something that just may not happen. I know I've been so focused on a plan...a path...a purpose that I've almost missed some amazing adventures.

May you be awake every day...no matter if time flies...slows down...as long as it exists...live...stretch...create...but don't give up. We all have a purpose...no matter what....we have a purpose...or we wouldn't still be here...you wouldn't be reading this entry right now. Good luck!

Homeward Bound - Day 9

Okay, I'm not a dude...but there's no telling what I look like...or even feel like at this point in the trip. I can only guess that I've had no sleep...had to keep a few in line...and my poor old body that should be Young, but I burnt both ends of my candle stick...and am ready for a pedi and mani ASAP! Poor feet...walking all over the place...experiencing things...Thank GOd for eye sight and the ability to move. Hopefully, I will not be too exhausted...for my next few weeks back will be jam packed with the following events for work:

Tulsa County Free Fair - July 21 - 26

• Set up
• Judging and Display day
• Farm To You - Child Care Day
• Bluegrass Ice Cream Festival
• 4-H Alumni Reunion & Dinner

88th State 4-H Roundup in Stillwater with teenagers again - this time from all over the state Jul 29 -31

Tulsa County Record Books and County Youth Officer Election - August 6

4-H Metamorphosis Leadership Retreat for new County officer team, Ambassadors and Jr. Ambassadors - August 7 & 8

4-H On TRAC Club Training and Volunteering Training with all Community Clubs in Tulsa County - August 10 - 14

Then I will be on annual leave - plans TBD August 20 - 24

WOW... it makes me really tired typing all that....it's going to be nuts! Hopefully, I can get some personal time in...most importantly...my running TRAINING!

Well....I'm not home yet to do that schedule...I should probably sleep on the bus ride home...yes, that's what I SHOULD do...pray that I get some sleep.

July 19th-


8:00am - Load Bus for Home
Lunch & Dinner on road


9:00pm- Arrive Okmulgee

HOME

Another summer day
has come and gone away
In Paris or Rome...
but I wanna go home...
uhm Home
may be surrounded by
a million people I
still feel all alone
just wanna go home
I miss you, you know

And I've been keeping all the letters
that I wrote to you,
Each one a line or two
I'm fine baby, how are you?
I would send them but I know that it's just not enough
My words were cold and flat
And you deserve more than that

Another aeroplane, another sunny place,
I'm lucky I
I wanna go home
I got to go home

Let me go home

I'm just too far from where you are
I wanna come home

And I feel just like I'm living
someone else's life
It's like I just stepped outside
when everything was going right
And I know just why you could not come along with me
This was not your dream
but you always believed in me...

Another winter day
Has come and gone away
in either Paris or Rome
and I wanna go home
Let me go home

And I'm surrounded by
A million people I
still feel alone
Let me go home
I miss you , you know

Let me go home
I've had my run
baby I'm done
I gotta go home

Let me go home
it'll all be alright
I'll be home tonight
I'm coming back home"

On the Road Again - Day 8

July 18th-

6:00am - Leave for Nashville
Lunch on Road
6:00pm - Arrive Nashville

Where Music Calls Us Home --- Now I've been here before...but it's been a long time. Enjoy seeing what's available at http://www.visitmusiccity.com/

Hang out at Opryland Mall

Did someone say shopping? I think by the time we have gotten to this point in the trip, I've spent my birthday money. I can't be for sure, but I can say it's a much higher possibility than not! :) Guess I'll just have to window shop like the girl in Shopaholic! :)

On the Road Again

On the road again

Just can't wait to get on the road again

The life I love is makin' music with my friends

And I can't wait to get on the road again

On the road again

Goin' places that I've never been

Seein' things that I may never see again,

And I can't wait to get on the road again.
On the road againLike a band of gypsies we go down the highway

We're the best of friends

Insisting that the world be turnin' our way

And our wayIs on the road again

Just can't wait to get on the road again

The life I love is makin' music with my friends

And I can't wait to get on the road again

On the road again

Like a band of gypsies we go down the highway

We're the best of friends

Insisting that the world be turnin' our way

And our way

Is on the road again

Just can't wait to get on the road again

The life I love is makin' music with my friends

And I can't wait to get on the road again

And I can't wait to get on the road again

Still Rocking Along in DC - Day 7

July 17th-

Breakfast at 4-H Center
Free Day

Back to Jennifer & Chrissy's "Free Days" Itinerary: "Where We Rock DC"

• Destroyer Barry - USS Navy Ship http://www.history.navy.mil/visit/visit5.htm



• United States Botanic Gardens http://www.usbg.gov/



• Smithsonian - National Museum of American History http://americanhistory.si.edu/



• Smithsonian - National Museum of Natural History http://www.mnh.si.edu/



• Embassy Row (if time) http://www.washingtonwalks.com/tours/embassy-row.

6:00pm - Meet Back at 4-H Center
7:30pm - Hard Rock Café Group Meal (Bus)

http://www.hardrock.com/locations/cafes3/cafe.aspx?LocationID=102&MIBEnumID=3

I can't wait to buy a magnet from here! I collect them...yes I do...and I'm proud of it! :)

It's MY BIRTHDAY - Day 6

My SWEET Trip on MY BIG 3 - 1 BIRTHDAY!

Happy Birthday to Me

Happy Birthday to Me

Happy Birthday to Happy Happy ME

Happy Birthday to me

AND MANY MORE!

Yummy...now that's a birthday cake...one of the largest made. Strawberry Shortcake...eat your heart out!

July 16th-

7:00am- Breakfast
9:00am - Tour Washington Monument

Visit http://www.nps.gov/wamo for more information.

9:30am - Free day Tour

Jennifer and I have an awesome day planned!

It's the Jennifer & Chrissy's "Free Days" Itinerary: "Where We Rock DC"

• Ford Theater & Petersen House Presentation and Tour
• "One Destiny" (2person Play) or Park Ranger Presentation
• United State Holocaust Memorial Museum
• US Bureau of Engraving & Printing

6:00pm - Meet at ballpark to eat and game, Bus back to 4-H Center

Take Me Out to the Ballgame

"Take me out to the ball game,

Take me out with the crowd.

Buy me some peanuts and Cracker Jack,

I don't care if I never get back,

Let me root, root, root for the home team,

If they don't win it's a shame.

For it's one, two, three strikes, you're out,

At the old ball game."

What a day of celebrating my birthday by doing all this....WOW...it's gonna take a lot to beat this. :) I'll try though! You are only as old as you think you are! HAHAHAHAHAHA

Capitol, Cathedral and Monuments...oh my - Day 5

July 15th-
8:00am –Wake up & Breakfast National 4-H Center(orange polos, khakis, shorts acceptable)9:00am - Load bus for legislative visit with Congressman Boren


12:00pm - Lunch Union Station1:00pm - Capitol Tour
2:30pm - Cathedral

Visit http://www.nationalcathedral.org/visit/ for more information! :) Wonder if I can find some of the strange things from the movies. HMMMMMMMM we shall see.

6:00pm - Dinner at 4-H Center8:00pm - Load Bus for Monument Tour - YIPPEEEEEEEE - Touring at night...everything lit up...priceless....you couldn't pay enough to see it all! :)


He was hilarious in Night at the Museum 2! :)

Monticello - HELLO - Day 4

July 14th-

8:00am – Breakfast at Hotel
8:30am - Leave for Monticello
9:00am-12:00pm - Tour Monticello

Want to know more about Thomas Jefferson's place, visit http://www.monticello.org/index.html

12:00pm -1:00pm - Lunch in Charlottesville
1:00pm - Leave for Arlington
3:00pm-5:30pm - Tour Arlington

Just in case you haven't been to this spectacular place, visit http://www.arlingtoncemetery.org/

6:30pm - Dinner National 4-H Center - I hear the food is tasty!

Finally, I get to stay at the National 4-H Center...it's been a long time coming! Visit the website to check out this fantastic place, http://www.4hcenter.org/

8:00pm - Free time

Now this is sure to be a loaded day of experiencing history. I haven't been to Monticello before now! Arlington was amazing the first time! I can't wait to see it with a different perspective.

More Heritage Discovered - Day 3

July 13th- 7:00am – Breakfast
Morning- Cherokee Farm and Traditional Games
Noon- Meal in Cherokee
1:00pm – Depart for Charlottesville, Virginia (Meal on road )

10:00pm –Arrive Charlottesville

A Poem: Wake Up In a Land Of Dreams

Wake up in a land of dreams;

Enchanted with mountains hollows and streams;
Where morning sun becomes your friend;

And the gentle breezes of the four winds whisper for the day to begin;
An eagle and a hawk soon soar above;
While well below are the calls of robins and doves;
A whitetail deer heads home on an early morning trail;

While young squirrels spend the day hiding behind trees as they chase each others tails;

On a lazy afternoon in the mountains a black bear takes a nap;

After a delicious meal of ants and termites and a dessert of honey sap;

For a moment evening sun sits on a mountain top before he descends down;

And pretty soon native night creatures will be the only sounds;

Then the mountains become covered with a smoky mist;

As nature gives the land a good-night kiss;

Every star is lit as they sparkle throughout the night;

And treetops dance in the water with shadows by the moon light;

And soon the land of Cherokee becomes quiet;

Until morning, nature says goodnight.

Frank Goss, 2006

Possible Cherokee Games we might be playing, but not for sure:

A-ne-jo-di, or the Stickball Game, is a very rough game played by not only the Cherokee, but many other Southeastern Woodland tribes and it is also popular with many Canadian First Nations. The game resembles the modern European game of lacrosse. This game is a pre-requisite before a Cherokee Stomp Dance can begin, but it is also played socially or competitively without the Stomp Dance occurring in conjunction with it.

Di-ga-da-yo-s-di or Marbles is another popular Cherokee game, which is played in tournaments. The marble game dates back to approximately 800 a.d., and is a complex game of skill and strategy played by adults on a five-hole outdoor course. The "marbles" aren't the small shooters used by kids today. They were carved from stone until the early 20th century. There are still a few traditional marble makers, but today most people use billiard balls to play this game.

Find out more about Charlottsville at http://www.charlottesville.org/

Work and Play - Day 2

July 12th-

7:00am – Breakfast
7:30am – Leave on Bus for Oconaluftee Indian Village for the morning

See how cool this place will be for us...totally magnificent

http://www.cherokee-nc.com/index.php?page=17
Afternoon- tubing

Evening- Educational Program (I can't wait to see what the Cherokee 4-H'ers will have for us, but it's bond to be a very interesting program).

Not sure how long of a day this will be, but it's sure to be jam packed and lots of funnnnnnnnnnnnn! Wow we have an adventure in store for us! I'm excited to do a float trip again. If this one goes well, I may have to petition with the PAC to bring back our Tulsa County Float trip!

Charter Buses...oh my! Day 1

If you haven't caught on...I'm auto posting...yes...I am! I actually was a night owl this past week and got tons of these posts ready for you! :) Lucky you! Any who, at this point I have been on a charter bus since 6:00 a.m....not sure how I will be feeling, but I can only guess it will give me many fab stories to tell you later on! Keep praying for us...we should be arriving in North Carolina tonight.



Here's Day 1's schedule:




July 11th-


6:00am- Check in at the Creek Nation Complex
6:30am- Depart Okmulgee
2 meals on the way to Cherokee North Carolina


10:00pm-11:00pm- Arrive at Cherokee, NC





It's a looooooonnnnnnggggg day! Keep praying for safe travels! :)

Tomorrow at 6:00 a.m. ---- AWAY WE GO!!!!!!!!!

I get the privilege of chaperoning along with 9 other adults....up to 48 teenagers from the 4-H program. Now these teenagers come from the 11 counties within the Creek Nation 4-H area. It's going to be an adventure of a lifetime. I'm enthusiastic about this trip. It's been a long time since I stepped foot in DC. I'm glad to experience it through my adult eyes, plus I get to be in DC on my 31st birthday...pretty cool if you ask me.

Any ways, please send prayers up for safe travel, good behaviors and awesome stories. I look forward to reporting back to you, plus posting all the pics on facebook. 4:30 a.m. will come too soon though...the only downfall I see in the plans. We have to be in Oklmulgee by 6:00 a.m. and I have teenagers staying at my house for a shorter drive. We have 4 going from Tulsa County...YIPPEE! Let the memories begin! :) Toodles...Trip 1 of many more to come!

Traveling I will Go...A Traveling I will GO!!!!!!!!!!!!

Yes, I have been known as the traveling girl most my life. Every opportunity that I could travel, I have...yes, I have! I will be returning to Washington DC this next week. I haven't been there since my 8th grade trip with Coach Rhoten. Oh the good old days! :) I leave Saturday with the Creek Nation 4-H Trip. It is going to be awesome. This is not my only trip set for this year. Here's a quick line up:

July 11 - 19, 2009

Washington DC with many stops along the way...I will post when I get back.

August 15 - 23, 2009

TBD I will be taking annual leave...I have options...and some will be traveling.

October 24 -30, 2009

Rochester, NY for the NAE4-HA Conference - MY VERY FIRST ONE WITH THIS ORGANIZATION...I LOVE CONFERENCES!

November 5 - 11, 2009

GREECE & Egypt ---I will be running the Athens Marathon (God willing)!

So this is what is set thus far for my traveling ways. I am always so happy to travel...it's a blast...and I get to take lots of pictures...I've missed having so many pictures. I'm sure there will be some short road trips in the fall sometime...it just depends on money! :) Thank God two of the trips are for work!

I absolutely love the number 8, so I'm going to start a new Wednesday tradition for myself on this blog. I will find a topic and have 8 items to cover and why.

First topic for my 8's Day is.....

My favorite FRUIT?

1. Strawberries - they are delicious, especially with chocolate on them. My absolute favorite.

2. Oranges - I love the Old Bagel Shop's homemade orange juice. You can see the oranges squeezed in their funky machine...love it!

3. Bananas - my all time favorite is in bread...banana bread....do I need to say more...no!

4. Kiwi - I really do love this fruit...its sweet and juicy.

5. Apples - Have you ever had Hideaway Pizzas salad with walnuts and apples....its fabulous! So is the Fuji salad at Panera! YUMMY!

6. GRAPES - I can't forget grapes...these are amazing for snacking! SOOOOOOOOOOO GOOOOOD!

7. Peaches - I just had the best homemade peach ice cream over 4th of July...thanks to my Great Aunt Janice - I'm pretty sure she made it. Delicious...fresh peaches!

8. Cherries - love them especially in cherry limeades or Shirley's! :)

What's your favorite fruit and why?

4 years and almost 1 month

I know...crazy pic. Believe it or not...this was me at 25...just starting out as the 4-H Extension Educator for Tulsa County. Yes, this was my picture at the New Employee Orientation...it was raining that day. I never thought in a million years how amazing this job would be. Now it definitely has had some downs, but there have been more ups. I praise God for giving me this job. My 4 year anniversary was on June 13, 2009. I look forward to many more years. I hope you are enjoying your work. It's not always this way. I'm very happy...though behind...I'm still very happy!

Hello FREEDOM!

Yes, I said it.....HELLLOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO FREEDOM! This is a very special 4th of July for me. After 5 1/2 years of struggling and concentrating on getting pregnant..........I am breaking the chains and living for today. It's been a long struggle....and for those that have had to bear it with me....THANK YOU FROM THE BOTTOM OF MY HEART. Thanks for not leaving me behind.

This attitude of living for today and concentrating on me and my hubby has been going for a week now. When I spotted last Thursday, I thought I was going to be crushed. I was wrong. I got back up...decided to be happy with today...and have been so much happier since.

I am lucky enough to travel to DC on the 11th - 19th. I am very honored to be visiting a place that appreciates the efforts of others who have fought for another freedom! Praise God for those that have given me the opportunity to decide for myself on anything. FREEDOM does not come without a cost. Thank you to those that serve or have served to make our freedom exist!

May God Bless You, Your family and the United States of America. May we remember that we were built on the principles...and not to forget the words written long ago... IN GOD WE TRUST!

Ever Feel Like You Are In A Holding Tank?

Well, I definitely have been in the "holding tank" situation many times. It's so hard to feel like this, because you just want to move forward...yet it's not time. God does a great job in giving us time to adjust so we can mover forward. Often times, I forget there is a process. I'm that little kid that wants it all right now. :) Here's to those that feel like they are in a holding tank. What's awesome about it...I know I'm being positive...is that we are having time to catch up and work on ourselves so we can be ready for the moving forward.

Though I have not like the "holding tank" phase, I am starting to appreciate it. Sorry for those that I have not seen in a little while. I'm just working on getting some things done. I hope to be back in some of your lives very soon. Thanks for always thinking of me. It means a lot.

My Staycation - June 10 - 17, 2009

Though I did not sit around on my staycation very much, I thought this cartoon was hilarious. A staycation is really awesome. I needed a much rested vacation that wasn't going to be too stressful. God definitely helped me to catch up on people and things I wanted to do. Here's a list of what I did generally on each day....it was very interesting:

Wednesday, June 10, 2009

• Slept in
• Time with Aunt Tracy: Sauna, Soul Food, Delicious lunch (healthy as can be), tea time(finished off two pots) and conversation. I always have a fab time with her. She gets my attitude/soul adjusted!
• I got to eat with one of my dear friends, Amy Hartling, at one of my favorite places to eat "In the Raw" on the hill! FABULOUS AND GORGEOUS time together. We even did some shopping together.
• Movie Time: "Nights in Rodanthe" with Richard Gere and Diane Lane - very sad movie, but worth it. "Rachel Getting Married" with Anne Hathaway - strange movie, but had some meaning.

Thursday, June 11, 2009

• Slept in a little
• Dr. Appt to see if we could proceed with fertility treatment - WE WERE ABLE TO...PRAISE GOD! Trigger shot for next day!
• Shopping Day with Sheryl - we shopped and had a blast! I got some really cute clothes, plus did the new eye brow "Dazzle" treatment....very freaky, but turned out really good. Sheryl got her ear pierced with the second holes.
• Michael and I ate out and spent some time together. I love spending time with him...we always have fun.
• Movie Time: "New in Town" with Harry Connick Jr. and Renee Zellwinger - very cute movie.

Friday, June 12, 2009

• Sheryl got to my house before 8:00 a.m. to do my trigger shot! Pray, pray, pray and believe God will make a miracle! :)
• Sheryl and I watched a very strange movie "Cake Eaters". It was slow, yet I have a new respect for Kristen Stewart as an actress.
• Watched the amazing storm that took place. It was fabulous and brought back great childhood memories.
• Shopped a little more...had to take some stuff back from a previous shopping trip.
• Michael and I attended the 1st of 3 events for his CPHS 10 Year Reunion! We were at Minute Man Pizza. It was nice to see another side of Michael's life.

Saturday, June 13, 2009

• Slept in - doctor and Michael's orders! :)
• Fertility Treatment - nerves were up, but I'm excited at the same time. We are believing that God will give us exactly what his plans are for us. May God continue to be with us on this adventure! :) We got to enjoy breakfast together and I got WAFFLES! YUMMY!
• Michael and I attended the 2nd of 3 events for his CPHS 10 Year Reunion! We were at the Sand Springs Skating Rink. It has been a long...extremely long time since I've had a pair of skates on me. It was a blast. I got back in the game and enjoyed skating...I promise I didn't go too crazy, but I have to say...I like me some skating time...any time! :)
• Michael and I did get to eat Panera for a later lunch....I had chicken noodle and the Fuji Apple Salad...1st time to have it...wow I didn't know they made apple vinaigrette...DELICIOUS!
• Michael and I attended the 3rd of 3 events for his CPHS 10 Year Reunion! We were at the Crowne Plaza for the Semi Formal and Dinner. I had a blast, but of course I would...there was dancing. I love, love, love to dance. The girls from his class were great. We danced and danced and danced some more. I can't say that to you that I took it easy...the music just takes over and my body has to react...even with my silly moves! I'm so glad we went!

Sunday, June 14, 2009

• We went to church (Fellowship Church) and Pastor Matt blew me away with the UN Relevant: Are we too political? He raised a lot of conversation in me. We followed the service with eating at one of my favorite restaurants Red Rock Canyon. We ate with Jerry and Kaye! I love hanging out with them. There was amazing praises for what God has done for all of us, plus we had a deeper discussion about the sermon. It was the best of times!
• Michael and I went shopping a little bit. I got my dad's birthday present!
• Actually took a nap..much needed!
• Drove to Cushing to spend time with my Cooper Family. We had a cookout at my brothers house. My family prayed over Michael and I per our request. I praise God for giving me a wonderful christian family! It was good eats and fellowship.
• Michael left me there to spend the night with my mom and dad. I stayed up late watching movies with my mom (we are night owl's). "House Bunny" with Anna Faris - HILARIOUS, so wasn't what I thought it was going to be. "He's Just Not That Into You" with a ton of actors I love - I've seen this one with Michael. I really liked it. It really shows you that what goes around comes around....and you don't get away with making bad choices!

Monday, June 15, 2009

• I was in Cushing all day. I slept in till 11:00 since I didn't go to bed until 4:00 or so...yes am!
• I got to eat lunch with the the kids, sister-in-law, her Aunt and my mom. The turkey sandwich at Naifeh's Deli and Grill is fabulous. I have to get it every time. I had way too many tots! :)
• My mom and I went to Old Songs "Sung Here" Antique shop. I have to admit I love antique shopping. You never know what treasure you will find. I found some shelves, across and notepads for the frig.
• Swimming at the City Water Park with my niece and nephew. I actually got some much needed sun. It was a blast with them, plus I caught up with some high school friends of mine.
• Watched my nephew play t-ball....loved this...I caught up with even more friends from my past...it was perfect. Michael got to be there. We ate with my family afterwards at Naifeh's again. This time I had a burger and side salad. GOOD TIMES!

Tuesday, June 16, 2009

• Tough day...I stayed in bed for a long time...I needed to get re-centered again. God is blessing so many ladies with pregnancies. It was tough to get all of them told to me in just a couple of days....15, yes, fifteen in just two days. It's tough to hear that when you are trying so hard to get pregnant yourself.......BUT....God takes care of me always. I'm so happy for each of the ladies, because I know just how perfect everything has to be for there to be a miracle created..................SO....I know He is done with me yet...He's just getting started.
• God gave me a miracle today...I owed the labs $182.07 for past testing...when I called to pay...Emanuel (awesome) told me I owed only $2.73. Now that is a God thing! Praise Him for that, especially since our fertility treatment is a little over a $100 more than we were estimated!
• I had great conversations with Aunt Tracy, Ale and Jennifer T.
• I got pictures posted to Facebook from previous events...I'm posting all my phone pics today (Wed.).
• Michael brought me lunch from an old favorite of my..."Impressions" yummy...homemade...adn I mean from scratch...carrot cake with real icing and chicken salad sandwich...my mouth waters just thinking about it! Thanks honey! We had a deep discussion and I felt like we are getting on the same page a little better than before....praise God!
• Prayer Closet time....yes, sadly I've taken time away from my prayer closet...it was good to get back in there. God has shown me during my staycation what's important to me...I'm getting re-centred and loving it. I feel like me again.
• Women's Bible Study at church - we started our first night with the "Believing God" Beth Moore Study...WOW, it's exactly what I need at this time! Praise God on High. I even have Wanda Blair, amazing Christian women, as my partner....now that's another God thing.

Wednesday, June 17, 2009

• Today was supposed to be my first day back to work, but I felt I needed one more day.....I was right! Thanks God for today!
• I slept in....ate breakfast with my hubby...and...watched "Pushing Daises" while eating popcorn.
• I've been typing out this overview...sorry for the length...and am smiling. This has been the best vacation in a long time. I've been able to catch up with God, old and new friends and family.
• I've been so blessed with the magnitude of people praying for Michael and I...it makes my hear and soul happy to know that we have such an awesome support system.
• I'm going to do some re-organizing and bible study today.

If you ever need to be re-centered or just relaxed.....try a Staycation! It's totally worth it!

Reflections by Chrissy Whitten

REFLECTIONS BY CHRISSY WHITTEN

The older I get, the less I know!