Climbing the Next Mountain

Warrior Princess Trail Run

2011-02-17T14:13:00.000-08:00

I'm getting even more excited than I've been to see the Warrior Princess Trail Run finally coming together through the planning stages to reality. Here is the info you need to know. Hope you all can participate on Monday, April 25, 2011. This would have been Lilian Grace's 1st Birthday!

1^st Annual

Warrior Princess Trail Run

Monday April 25, 2011

6:00 pm – 10.3 mile Trail/Road Race

(5.5 miles of trail and rest on paved road, plus 3 aid stations)

6:30 pm – 1.03 mile Fun Run/Walk

Keystone State Park Mountain Bike & Hike Trail (Sand Springs)

Race Day reg. and packet pick-up 5:00 – 5:50 p.m.

The Warrior Princess Trail Run proceeds will benefit babies diagnosed with T18 & T13 chromosomal disease and their families by providing assistance, support and resources as needed. The race is in memory of Michael and Chrissy Whitten’s daughter, who was diagnosed with T18 sixteen days into her life.

Lilian Grace Whitten, Warrior Princess, soared above and beyond what was expected of her life. Her first breath was supposed to be her last. She lived 103 glorious days on this earth before earning her wings. God gave us the reason why she was here through the following scripture: “So that Christ may dwell in your hearts through FAITH. And I pray that you being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the saints, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the LOVE of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge - that you may be filled to the measure of all the FULLNESS OF GOD.” Ephesians 3:17-19

Visit http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/liliangracewhitten/journal for more

of our story!

Awards: Prizes to the Overall Top Three Male and Female (No duplication of awards.) Custom Finisher Medals for all runners. Best Dressed Warrior Prince and Princess Contest.

Entry Fee: $35 by March 15, 2011 (shirt guaranteed)

$40 after March 15, 2011

Registration: Make checks payable to: Warrior Princess Foundation, 25 E. Broadway, Sand Springs, OK 74063

For more information, contact the race director Chrissy Whitten at warriorprincessfoundation@hotmail.com

You can request a registration form via e-mail or go online to register at

https://secure.getmeregistered.com/get_information.php?event_id=4490

Get Your Race On

2011-02-09T12:19:00.000-08:00

I decided to be a doer today and register for two of my favorite trail run I've ran before. It's been way too long since I've ran any race….my was when I was 8 weeks pregnant with Lilian Grace. We ran the Greece Marathon in November 2009. Yes, that is way to long for this runner girl to stay away from the racing world.

What races have I signed up for you ask? Well the lovely TATUR's Six Hour Snake Run and Lake McMurtry Trail Run. I just hope my lovely ankle will not get in my way of finishing these races out. As anyone with an injury should do, I am not expecting to pr in any race I do for at least another 6 months. I do expect to be able to at least run the races without a lot of pain.

The TATUR's Six Hour Race is perfect for my first race back. Why you ask? Well, there's no set distance for me. I just run for six hours and end up whatever mile at the end. It's perfect for me. The race takes place on Turkey Mountain in Tulsa, OK…love this place. It will be nice to be back with my running buddies working towards finishing my goal to actually participate in a race. Getting back on that saddle has been a rough road, but I will start out slow…pace slow…and finish strong with a slow mindset to get me through the six hours of running. I can't wait to see what happens…hopefully no injuries, especially since I am not getting my competitive juices flowing for the time being.

My goal is to just run when I can and keep moving when I can't until the time is up. It's be a fun adventure to see what my ankle and body can do during this time. Perhaps, the ankle is really good for me. We shall see! Bring on Saturday, March 19, 2011!

For more info: http://www.tatur.org/SixHourTaturRun.html

The TATUR's Lake McMurtry Race is another favorite race of mine. It takes place at Lake McMurtry Park West Side in Stillwater, OK. There are three distance options for this race: 15k, 25k or 50k. I am playing it safe by doing the 25k. This race isn't until Saturday, April 2, yet I still want to make sure my ankle doesn't get in my way. I need to be healthy for Lilian Grace's Warrior Princess Trail Run on Monday, April 25, 2011….so I need to be careful.

My goal for this race is to survive the terrain. I love this trail, but you never know what it's going to look like….especially after this crazy weather we've been having here in Oklahoma. I'm just pumped to be a part of my buddy, TZ's two races. Yep, he's the race director for both of these. He's also blessing us with designing the Warrior Princess Trail Run….I can't wait. He does an excellent job putting on races.

For more info: http://www.tatur.org/LMTR.html

There's so many great things about TZ, but an exceptional one is the fact that he's going to help train me for 103 miler race in memory of my daughter, Lilian Grace. If I hadn't hurt my ankle, we'd be training right now…life took a different turn, but I am not giving up…and neither is he! :) Pray that my body, mind and soul works with me through getting back on the racing "horse" so I can get to my ultimate dream of completing that 103 miles. I will keep you posted throughout this process.

Cheers to registering for my two races…and the completion of them. Running buddies…you know who you are…I have missed you with great lengths…I can't wait to run with you again.

Never Fight A Rock

2011-02-04T00:20:00.000-08:00

Yes, never get in a fight with a rock. This will only cause you great pain. I should have posted back when the incident occurred, but I got sidetracked. The day was Saturday, January 8, 2011. I was finally getting to rejoin my Runnersworld peeps for my next marathon when the infamous moment took place.

What started the problem was the fact I was trying to fit an 8 mile run in less than 1 1/2 hours. I needed to be at work to teach classes by 10:00 a.m. My smarter choice should have been to run with Sandra for 5 miles, instead of trying to do 8 miles with Ed. My second smarter choice should have been to stop at the water stop before proceeding with such a fast pace. :)

Ten minute miles wasnot what I should have been running. I had been training by myself the weeks before, yet I was in shape ready to do such a fast pace. Another smarter choice would have been to look ahead of me to make sure there were no objects in my path. Smart me…decided that looking at and talking to Stephanie, who I hadn't seen in awhile, was going to work at such a fast pace.

As we approached Lewis street to cross, I did a dance on top of a rock. We went to battle…and sadly I lost! I fought a fight though as you will see…that dang rock got grinded into the street! I really was not wanting to go down, but that is where I eventually ended up. Here is the picture of my component and the remains of our fight/dance!

I could feel the twisting and cracking of my right ankle…I was thinking…this is not gonna turn out good…I bet I broke it…and maybe worse…sprain it…which hurts worse than being broke…or so I've been told. I just stayed down and smiled. I thought to myself…a year ago, I was pregnant…told that I was going to have emergency surgery almost to the day…and that perhaps my daughter and me may not make it…that I'd lose one of my ovaries and fallopian tube…hmmm…

I just laughed…because I was really hoping to start this year off differently…and a broken bone was definitely better than surgery. Well….as always…my running buddies were there for me. I had many stop to check on me. I told them that I'd be fine. Stacy volunteered to run back and get her car to pick me up…what a blessing she was, because I couldn't have made it.

I remember sitting on that corner and just cracking up. One of the other runners had handed me the rock I got in a fight with…I just looked at it…smiling as I have lately…and laughed even harder. I thought…that dang devil has it out for me…he just can't seem to leave me alone…perhaps, I'm doing something right then for him to go through all this trouble. What's great about the next pic is the beam of light. I'd like to think that is my daughter saying hello and smiling at her crazy mommy.

I did make it back to my car and went to teach classes at my studio…though I had to really get creative on teaching that day! Leave it to me to be very stubborn and creative at the same time. My ankle decided to keep swelling…soooooo I decided to be very obedient in icing and resting. Thanks to Sandra for bringing me that awesome ice pack! Here's a pic an hour or so after the incident…I tried to teach Pilates, which made it really start swelling.

Well God has been so good to me…He even got me to go to the doctor the following Monday. I was afraid that I'd broken it, so I went just in case…plus the fact that my ankle kept swelling up bigger than a softball…and bruising was all down both sides of my ankle…foot…and up my leg...that will scare you all the way to the doctors office. Come to find out, it was a sprain. Dang thing…it really does hurt.

Now that it's been almost a month since the incident…I can say that I wore the crazy brace for almost 2 1/2 weeks…and have babied it through most of the weeks. I have a couple more weeks before I can actually attempt to really run on it. I have tried working out on it, but it keeps swelling a little. I am trying to be patient, but it's not easy.

I will say this…I don't ever want to get in another fight with a rock again…too much damage! Here's the rest of the pictures for you to enjoy!

Only a little mark on the hand, but the shoe went through a little more!

This picture shows my ankle getting bigger, but not quite the size it fully got. I sadly do not have a picture of that. I think the pain set in by that time.

These are pics after 3 1/2 weeks…so much better..and almost all the bruising was gone.

REMEMBER TO NEVER FIGHT A ROCK….it only ends badly. My hopes to run the OKC Marathon has been crushed once again. It seems that I never get to do that one…so I will settle for running the Warrior Princess Trail Run on Monday, April 25, 2011 in memory of my daughter Lilian Grace. I will be posting more about it in future posts. I hope that TZ (Trail Zombie aka Ken Childress) and I can start training after that for my next marathon, which hopefully will lead to my 103 miles I'd like to run in honor and memory of my daughter….praying and hoping that dream can become reality! Thanks for reading.

The Phoenix Experience

2010-12-12T16:50:00.000-08:00

I have been very blessed to start my own business called The Phoenix Experience. I do personal training and group exercise instruction. It's a wonderful little studio where I get to hang out with my family, friends and new people I meet to help them become healthier and more fit.

I've been teaching since I was 12 years old when my Great Uncle thought it would be great for me to teach a class back in the day. Ever since, I dreamed of owning my own place. Praise God, I now do. I'm sure my Great Uncle Bear…actually I could guarantee that he knew I'd be doing something like this.

I owe my training and experiences to instructors at the Cushing Youth Center, YMCA world, many Tulsa gyms, videos, games, books, certifications. Without others giving me ideas and working them out for me, I couldn't be the instructor or trainer that I am today. God has definitely blessed me with skills in this field. I pray I get to keep doing.

If you know anyone near the Sand Springs area, please let them know about me. I opened the studio on October 13, 2010. It's been a fun ride thus far…hopefully it will be a long one. Visit web.me.com/c2mist8 to learn more about my studio.

Thanksgiving's New Adventure

2010-11-24T19:45:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving is usually spent driving from one house to the next in order to spend as much time with family as possible, plus cramming in tons of food. Well, since our year has taken a huge detour in life…we will be taking a new adventure for Thanksgiving 2010.

Instead of a home cooked meal, we will be stuffing our faces at the Dixie Stampede in Branson, MO using no utensils…only our hands as the pilgrims did in the day when they first met the native americans of this blessed land we call home. Yes, they may have had their own made up utensils, but I will use the best ones ever created…yes…my two hands! I actually am super pumped about this adventure, but it does not stop there…..

Oh we have two day passes to…drum roll please…SILVER DOLLAR CITY. My hubby has never been…I know…shocker…he has gone through almost 30 years of life without experiencing such a grande place. I can't wait to ride the rides, take crazy pictures and enjoy the food and entertainment. It's been too long since I last was there….actually...it's been way toooooooo long. I know it's been more than a decade since I've been there.

So here's to praying and hoping that even through this crazy year…we can have some much needed fun times to get us through the holiday season. May each of you have an amazing adventure yourself no matter what you end up doing…just make sure you count your blessings!

Mother Road 2010

2010-11-19T09:49:00.000-08:00

2010 has been a very bumpy ride this year. Lilian Grace earned her wings on August 5, 2010 and I've been hitting the busy schedule right and left. This blog is going to share new adventures and random things I want to talk about again. I love sharing life, so be prepared for many crazy adventures.

Last weekend I was blessed to pace one of my dear running buddies, Roman. I tried to crew afterwards until 7:20 a.m. I kept falling asleep though. The Mother Road 100 miler is exactly what it's name says….MOTHER ROAD.

Watching Roman conquer his goal of finishing a 100 miler was totally awesome. I got to be with him for 9 miles of the stretch, then the hours of not sleeping and doing 2 hours of Zumba earlier that day took a toll on me. I ran 10:30 pm to about 1:45 am. Then I got with his awesome crew Candice and Susan…which they are complete rockstars. I've never been more impressed with two people taking care of us like they did. I only lasted until 7:20 am. They went from Saturday before 9:00 a.m to after 6:00 p.m. Sunday. Yes, they deserve buckles themselves. I'd be blessed to have them as my crew when I run my 103 miles.

I am so impressed with my running buddies who ran and crewed. It's a phenomenal world. I am inspired by my peeps to have that much dedication. I definitely want to do a 100 miler someday in honor and memory of my daughter. Trail Zombie is going to coach me. Now I just have to get my butt in gear and be a regular runner again.

100 miles is not going to be easy by any means. Kathy Hoover and TZ have ran numerous ones…wow…to be like them would be an incredible accomplishment. I still am in awe by last weekends performances. I hope I can get it done at some point. Now to be that dedicated, I must eat, sleep, drink water and run every week and build from nothing.

Since 2007, I've ran a handful of 5k's, a 15k, 3 Marathons (1 in the US and 2 Internationally); and a 50k. I have missed many races this last year and can't wait to get my legs back in the running world. It will not be easy with my schedule, but I have a plan.

I want to encourage all of you to find something that feels unreachable and start making plans to build up to whatever it is! Mine is running 103 miles!!!!!!!!!!!!! Praying for the dedication and follow through.

To all my running buddies…I love you very much. You are some of the greatest inspirations I know!

PS The pic of me is in the wee hours of the night at the Mother Road in my car waiting for Roman to stop!

Lilian Grace Whitten is Here!

2010-04-30T21:23:00.000-07:00

I will give more details later about Lily and our adventure. For now, I want you to know our precious little miracle is HERE! She's 2 months premature, but she's a fighter. We are so blessed to have people who care about us. I am glad to know she's alive and kicking some butt. She was born on Sunday, April 25, 2010 at 8:44 a.m. I will give the rest at a later time. Keep praying for us!

Easter & New Doctor

2010-04-05T20:12:00.000-07:00

I just have to say that Easter Weekend 2010 has been the best in a long time. We had a jam packed weekend. Here's what all went down:

Friday - Night of Praise with our church followed by IHOP with friends.
Saturday - cleaning and Jenkins Wedding
Sunday - 8 am church service at our church followed by 2nd service at FWB Church in Cushing; Cooper Lunch; Fishing; Paddle Boat (got a tan); and Poteet Supper

It was an amazing weekend! Michael and I had a blast!

Today was awesome, because we got an appointment with the new doctor...Dr. Summers...we will see her for the first time tomorrow! PRAISE GOD! We are hoping all goes well. Another fun thing for today is that Michael got to wear the Empathy Belly at our Childbirth class...it was hilarious and priceless. Hopefully this week will continue to be just as good!

No News is Good News

2010-04-03T07:46:00.000-07:00

Well, this past week was a bumpy ride. We had to say goodbye to Dr. Donnelly, since we need an OB to deliver us at St. Francis. It was not fun, but I know God is going to take care of us! We should be getting a call from the new OB at Contemporary Women's Specialists by the first of next week.

As far as our appointment yesterday, Dr. Blake had no new news, which made me relieved in a way. At least it wasn't more bad news. I had a non-stress test and movement ultrasound. These were to see how her heart does while moving and afterwards, plus measure the amniotic fluid. We will still get an ultrasound every Friday, but she will be looking at different things. We only measure every 3 weeks. Last week Lily was 2 pounds...yippee!

For now, we still need prayer that the pulmonary artery branches will grow! Plus, we need the liquid that is on the brain to not build up any more. This can cause mental problems if so...so we really are praying for Lily to be cured of all things wrong right now. We do have time for her to grow...so that's a praise God.

Though Michael and I are in a good place...it is emotionally and physically draining to keep to the positive side....especially with everything in such a limbo...the doctors can only predict...I'm hoping that any prediction....would be that we get to see our daughter live a long and healthy life with us. May she have the ability to think, move, dream, achieve...and most importantly...do God's will! :)

That's all for now....next OB Specialist Appointment is set for next Friday.

And the mountain keeps building...

2010-03-23T20:30:00.000-07:00

Today was what I expected it to be...nerve racking and crazy. The mountain we are climbing with this pregnancy keeps building and building. I am starting to think that the more I hear...the more numb I may get...but God intervenes and releases pressure from my heart by giving me tears. I needed to talk it all out today...and I am thankful for my friends and family for that. I think I've been able to chew and swallow the news...now we just have to make it through all the stuff on Friday's appointment. Here is what I posted on facebook notes:

We had a 4 hour doctor's appointment today with the Pediatric Heart Specialist and Tech. It was not a fun process. I almost passed out and threw up at one point because my nerves got the best of me. They finally put what puzzle pieces they could for Lily's heart. They found 6 problems today: 1. Atrial Septal Defect 2. Ventrical Septal Defect 3. Dilated Main Pulmonary Artery 4. Abnormal Pulmonary Valve 5. Small Branch Pulmanary Arteries 6. Small Ductus Arteriosus The only one that can not be fixed by surgery is the small branch pulmonary arteries...this is where we need the major miracle. She needs these to grow bigger. We need all the prayers we can get. Today's news means we will end up having to switch hospitals and obgyn...plus she is more than likely gonna have multiple heart surgeries. I am believing God! I am asking Him to be BIGGER than He has ever been. I am far from perfect from dealing with all this, but I am still here....trucking forward...and knowing that whatever ends up happening...I'm in His hands always! :)

Updates

2010-03-20T23:03:00.001-07:00

Michael ended up taking me to the Labor & Delivery today since I have been having pain for almost 24 hours straight. I got an IV with some liquids and pain medicine...which helped me take a nice nap. Lily has moved positions so the on call Dr. decided that I have some scar tissue that Lily or the Uterus is pushing up and causing the pain. She looked great on the ultrasound...moving as always. We have the following appointments this week:

Monday with Dr. Donnelly, OBGYN
Tuesday with the Pediatric Heart Specialist
Friday with Dr. Blake, OBGYN Specialist

My blood test results came back for the following:
Torch Test - Traces that I had an Old Infection, but neither one of us has any current infections.
Glucose Test - PASSED...I was very excited about this one!

We should hear back about the Blood Clot Test Results on Fridays appointment.

Pray that all the eating I've been doing has given Lily more nutrients for her to catch up and grow in the areas she has been lacking...plus that her heart turns out perfect in every way. This past week has been rough for Michael and I, but we are trusting God.

I was able to attend a Women's Retreat the last 2 days, which really filled me up! I'm so glad to have amazing Christians in my life to help keep me filled up!

And the climbing continues...

2010-03-15T07:00:00.000-07:00

Before I can get to other stories that happened right before the surgery and the 6 weeks following, I want to update you on our recent climb. We had a doctors appointment with an OBGYN Specialist, who specializes in the highest risk pregnancies. We found out from our regular OBGYN that there were some concerns and worries. Thank God they got us into the specialist within the week of discovering the complications.

I will say that my intuition is stronger than ever before. I knew something wasn't right...still hopeful...but couldn't shake the uneasy feelings. After being at the specialist appointment for over an hour, she finally got down to the logistics....here is what I posted as an overview on my facebook notes:

"Lily's Health Inside the Womb"
We are going to have to see a Pediatric Heart Doctor since Lily's right side of her heart is bigger than the left and she has a possible hole in the middle. Her growth is still behind on the tummy, so we will be seeing a lot of the OBGYN Specialist. She thinks during my blood and weight loss that Lily's health was compromised and caused the growth problems.I knew losing 20 pounds wasn't going to go without some side effects.

My umbilical cord is not flowing in one side where there should be two parts, which could be another reason for her growth problems. I'm adding 28 g of protein into my diet to see if this helps. I go to Monday to get my Glucose and Blood Clot Testing, which requires lots of blood. Pray this doesn't effect my levels, since I've not had high numbers since I lost 1/2 my blood supply. I go back to my regular OBGYN on the 22nd for some of my test results (I may get those back before then). I go see the OBGYN Specialist on the 26th for another ultrasound to see if the added protein helps and her tests results. If Lily's growth hasn't changed for the better, they will monitor us each week. We also will be seeing the Pediatric Specialist within the next 3 weeks if they can get us in.

Worst case scenarios: Lily may have to come early because it would be better for her survival than remaining in my womb....when that time comes, she may have to have heart surgery if the hole doesn't close up. Keep us in your prayers. I know God wouldn't get us this far and let us be...He's carrying us right now in his arms and I'm holding on tighter than ever! Love you all!

Well that about covers it for your updates. I want to say that God has blessed me with amazing people...Godly ones at that...and I couldn't ask for anything more. This mountain is a gigantic monster, but I look back over my entire life...in experiences...people I've met...and things I've accomplished and failed...and realize more than ever before...my tool shed is full...and I'm still climbing. I have no idea what the future holds....except one thing...God will get me to the top! Whatever mountain you are facing now...get into your tool shed he's provided and start climbing! Who knows when you will reach the top....but I promise you this...the view when you get there will be breathtakingly beautiful....that's what I'm looking forward to. :)

Soul Food

2010-03-14T19:10:00.000-07:00

I was researching strength in times of trouble and found the following website: http://www.cbn.com/spirituallife/CBNTeachingSheets/promises_comfort_in_trouble.aspx
I love the verses very much! I hope you enjoy the read!

THE BOOK OF GOD'S PROMISES
Comfort in Times of Trouble
By J. Steven Lang

CBN.com -- What does God promise his people? Relief from all troubles in the next world, relief from some troubles in this life. Faithful people throughout the centuries witness to dramatic deliverances from sickness, from financial woes, from all manner of troubles. Flesh-and-blood human beings have testified to miracles. They happen.

But not always. Sometimes we aren't relieved by God. Sometimes we merely endure. This isn't such a bad thing. We are never nearer to God than when we are troubled. In times of comfort and ease we forget him. In the worst of times, we suddenly remember, "Ah, what if I asked God for help?" Sometimes the answer is the help we pray for. Sometimes the answer is "Lean on me, and you will survive and thrive."

Whom have I in heaven but you? I desire you more than anything on earth. My health may fail, and my spirit may grow weak, but God remains the strength of my heart; he is mine forever.

Psalm 73:25-26

Remember your promise to me, for it is my only hope. Your promise revives me; it comforts me in all my troubles.

Psalm 119:50

The LORD is my shepherd; I have everything I need. He lets me rest in green meadows; he leads me beside peaceful streams. He renews my strength. He guides me along right paths, bringing honor to his name.

Even when I walk through the dark valley of death, I will not be afraid, for you are close beside me. Your rod and your staff protect and comfort me.

Psalm 23:1-4

The LORD is my rock, my fortress, and my savior; my God is my rock, in whom I find protection. He is my shield, the strength of my salvation, and my stronghold.

Psalm 18:2

Weeping may go on all night, but joy comes with the morning.

Psalm 30:5

God is our refuge and strength, always ready to help in times of trouble. So we will not fear, even if earthquakes come and the mountains crumble into the sea.

Psalm 46:1-2

You have allowed me to suffer much hardship, but you will restore me to life again and lift me up from the depths of the earth.

Psalm 71:20

The LORD is like a father to his children, tender and compassionate to those who fear him.

Psalm 103:13

Those who plant in tears will harvest with shouts of joy. They weep as they go to plant their seed, but they sing as they return with the harvest.

Psalm 126:5

He heals the brokenhearted, binding up their wounds.

Psalm 147:3

"Don't be afraid, for I am with you. Do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you. I will help you. I will uphold you with my victorious right hand."

Isaiah 41:10

"When you go through deep waters and great trouble, I will be with you. When you go through rivers of difficulty, you will not drown! When you walk through the fire of oppression, you will not be burned up; the flames will not consume you. For I am the LORD, your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior."

Isaiah 43:2

"God blesses those who mourn, for they will be comforted.

"God blesses those who are persecuted because they live for God, for the Kingdom of Heaven is theirs.

"God blesses you when you are mocked and persecuted and lied about because you are my followers. "Be happy about it! Be very glad! For a great reward awaits you in heaven. And remember, the ancient prophets were persecuted, too."

Matthew 5:4, 10-12

"Not even a sparrow, worth less than a penny, can fall to the ground without your Father knowing it. And the very hairs of your head are all numbered. So don't be afraid; you are more valuable to him than a whole flock of sparrows."

Matthew 10:29-31

Jesus said, "Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke fits perfectly, and the burden I give you is light."

Matthew 11:28-30

We are pressed on every side by troubles, but we are not crushed and broken. We are perplexed, but we don't give up and quit.

That is why we never give up. Though our bodies are dying, our spirits are being renewed every day. For our present troubles are quite small and won't last very long. Yet they produce for us an immeasurably great glory that will last forever!

2 Corinthians 4:8, 16-17

Great E-mail I Got - Being A Mother...

2010-02-28T07:39:00.000-08:00

BEING A MOTHER....

After 17 years of marriage, my wife wanted me to
take another woman out to dinner and a movie. She
said, 'I love you, but I know this other woman loves
you and would love to spend some time with you.'
* * *
The other woman that my wife wanted me to visit
was my MOTHER, who has been alone for 20 years,
but the demands of my work and my two boys had
made it possible to visit her only occasionally.
* * *
That night I called to invite her to go out for
dinner and a movie.
* * *
'What's wrong, aren't you well,' she asked?
* * *
My mother is the type of woman who suspects that a
late night call or a surprise invitation is a sign
of bad news.
* * *
'I thought it would be pleasant to spend some
time with you,' I responded. 'Just the two of us.'
She thought about it for a moment, and then said,
'I would like that very much.'
* * *
That Friday after work, as I drove over to pick
her up I was a bit nervous. When I arrived at her
house, I noticed that she, too, seemed to be nervous
about our date. She waited in the door. She had curled her hair and was wearing the
dress that she had worn to celebrate her last
birthday on November 19th.
* * *
She smiled from a face that was as radiant as an
angel's. 'I told my friends that I was going to go
out with my son, and they were impressed,' she said,
as she got into that new white van. 'They can't wait to hear about our date'.
* * *
We went to a restaurant that, although not
elegant, was very nice and cozy. My mother took my
arm as if she were the First Lady. After we sat
down, I had to read the menu.. Her eyes could only
read large print. Half way through the entries, I
lifted my eyes and saw Mom sitting there staring at
me. A nostalgic smile was on her lips. 'It was I
who used to have to read the menu when you were
small,' she said. 'Then it's time that you relax and
let me return the favor,' I responded.
* * *
During the dinner, we had an agreeable
conversation- -nothing extraordinary but catching up
on recent events of each other's life. We talked so
much that we missed the movie.
* * *
As we arrived at her house later, she said,
'I'll go out with you again, but only if you let me
invite you.' I agreed.
* * *
'How was your dinner date ?'
asked my wife when I got home.
'Very nice. Much more so than I could have imagined,'
I answered.
* * *
A few days later, my mother died of a massive
heart attack. It happened so suddenly that I didn't
have a chance to do anything for her.
* * *
Some time later, I received an envelope with a
copy of a restaurant receipt from the same place
mother and I had dined. An attached note said: 'I
paid this bill in advance. I wasn't sure that I
could be there; but nevertheless, I paid for two
plates - one for you and the other for your wife.
You will never know what that night meant for me.
I love you, son.'
* * *
At that moment, I understood the importance of
saying in time: 'I LOVE YOU' and to give our loved
ones the time that they deserve. Nothing in life is
more important than your family. Give them the time
they deserve, because these things cannot be put off
till 'some other time.'
* * *
Somebody said it takes about six weeks to get back
to normal after you've had a baby..... somebody
doesn't know that once you're a mother,
'normal' is history.
* * *
Somebody said you learn how to be a mother by
instinct ... somebody never took a three-year-old shopping.
* * *
Somebody said being a mother is boring ....
somebody never rode in a car driven by a teenager with a driver's permit.
Somebody said if you're a'good' mother,
your child will 'turn out good'....
somebody thinks a child comes with
directions and a guarantee.
* * *
Somebody said you don't need an education to be a
mother.... somebody never helped a fourth grader
with his math.
* * *
Somebody said you can't love the second child as
much as you love the first .... somebody doesn't
have two children.
* * *
Somebody said the hardest part of being a mother
is labor and delivery.....
somebody never watched her 'baby' get on the bus
for the first day of kindergarten ...
or on a plane headed for military 'boot camp.'
* * *
Somebody said a mother can stop worrying after her
child gets married....somebody doesn't know that
marriage adds a new son or daughter-in-law to a
mother's heartstrings.
* * *
Somebody said a mother's job is done when
her last child leaves home.....
somebody never had grandchildren.
* * *
Somebody said your mother knows you love her, so
you don't need to tell her....
somebody isn't a mother.

Pass this along to all the 'mothers' in your life
and to everyone who ever had a mother. This isn't
just about being a mother; it's about appreciating
the people in your life while you have them....no
matter who that person is.

What time and life have been doing in my life!

2010-02-10T19:14:00.000-08:00

Thanks to Sandy, a new reader, I am back online. Time and life have definitely taken me for a spin lately. The last time I posted, it was the holiday season. I was growing in my pregnancy, trying to live each day at a time with nausea like no other. I wish I could have the nausea and nothing else back, but my road has taken a turn through some challenging mountains.

I started having severe pain in January and questioned every mother I could on how their pregnancies had gone. I was growing quite rapidly right after Christmas. I felt like my intuition (the Holy Spirit) was letting me know something wasn't right. Well, guess what...on January 8, 2010 I found out that feeling was dead on the spot. My OBGYN, just coming back from maternity leave, checked my conditions.

Low and behold she found a large cyst in my right ovary. When we went through other testing and ultrasounds, she sat us down in her personal office. Talk about thinking the worst. I saw that it was going to be one of my biggest mountains I was going to have to climb. She told my husband and I that the cyst was the size of a small soccer ball. They couldn't tell if it was cancerous or not. I was going to have to go through surgery while being pregnant...and to top it all off...my right ovary and fallopian tube would more than likely have to be removed.

Now, I'm not going to lie...I was scared out of my mind. My biggest fear in life has always been that I'd have a hysterectomy before I could get children here. Now part of that fear was coming true. It was very scary and definitely the biggest mountain I'd ever seen in my life.

On Friday, January 15, 2010, I did get that surgery. It is benign (praise God) and my right ovary and fallopian tube are no longer with me. I ended up with another cyst on the tube that they found during surgery. The days leading up to my surgery was incredible. God showed himself to me through my family, friends and even strangers.

In the next posts I will get you completely updated with all my stories and updates. We did find out we are having a baby girl, Lilian Grace. She is a fighter. I've been battling infections since, but I can see the light at the end of the tunnel. I look forward to sharing many stories of the past month with you. Please pray for me to have a full recovery. This mountain will not lick me...it may beat me up some...but I will conquer nonetheless. :) Keep checking back for more stories in the next week or two!

Family Time at the Holidays

2009-12-18T09:31:00.000-08:00

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

2009-12-17T11:56:00.000-08:00

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...................................

2009-12-04T22:30:00.000-08:00

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

2009-10-09T10:30:00.000-07:00

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

2009-09-23T11:58:00.000-07:00

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

2009-09-17T08:17:00.001-07:00

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

2009-09-16T10:46:00.001-07:00

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

2009-09-03T12:59:00.000-07:00

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

2009-09-01T20:57:00.000-07:00

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

2009-08-28T09:49:00.000-07:00

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

Finding a Way

2009-08-26T22:27:00.001-07:00

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

2009-08-24T20:45:00.000-07:00

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

2009-08-14T08:00:00.000-07:00

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

2009-08-13T06:30:00.000-07:00

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

2009-08-05T19:00:00.000-07:00

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

2009-08-04T16:46:00.000-07:00

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

2009-07-28T20:03:00.001-07:00

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

2009-07-27T20:52:00.000-07:00

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

2009-07-19T08:00:00.000-07:00

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

2009-07-18T08:00:00.000-07:00

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

Still Rocking Along in DC - Day 7

2009-07-17T08:00:00.000-07:00

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

2009-07-16T08:00:00.000-07:00

My SWEET Trip on MY BIG 3 - 1 BIRTHDAY!

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

2009-07-15T08:00:00.001-07:00

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

2009-07-14T08:00:00.000-07:00

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

2009-07-13T08:00:00.000-07:00

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

2009-07-12T08:00:00.000-07:00

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

2009-07-11T12:00:00.000-07:00

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!!!!!!!!!

2009-07-10T19:00:00.000-07:00

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!!!!!!!!!!!!

2009-07-09T19:00:00.000-07:00

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!

2009-07-08T20:00:00.000-07:00

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

2009-07-07T21:06:00.000-07:00

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!

2009-07-02T13:26:00.000-07:00

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?

2009-06-24T08:47:00.001-07:00

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

2009-06-17T10:41:00.000-07:00

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

2009-06-03T20:35:00.000-07:00

REFLECTIONS BY CHRISSY WHITTEN

The older I get, the less I know!

Defying Gravity

2009-05-07T08:00:00.000-07:00

2009 just keeps throwing things my way...sound familiar...I'm thinking it's not the year, but just my life that was set up for some interesting adventures.....these adventures get interesting....some come and go frequently....but one thing comes back over and over and over...my faith....my ability to conquer the next mountain....by climbing....by defying gravity.

No one said life would be fair...no one said you'd get everything that you want....but I know for sure....I want to live my life with unlimited potential and success. It may take me longer on some mountains, but I do get those dang things climbed....some eventually! :) Sometimes I even run up them...others I have to stop and sit on the side of the mountain for a long time....but I still don't stop for long.

I may be crazy...I may take too long to get a lesson...but at least I still sign up ffor each climb after climb once I figure out what that mountain means for me. I try to look into my tool shed of climbing gear to see if I can reuse or recycle....now time to time...I like to get into what I call the hamster wheel....it just looks like it won't be the hamster wheel...until one day I look around...hit my forehead with my palm...and go...dang it...I'm back in the hamster wheel...I do eventually get out of it...and continue to climb my mountain.

This may confuse you...and that is fine...but I'm feeling very empowered today...which means I've just stepped out of another hamster wheel that I so graciously got stuck in...I was working my butt off, but not getting anywhere! :)

All I know for sure in whatever life brings any one of us....get your gear and start climbing whatever your mountain looks like...it's important to give a shout up to God to see what you need to be doing...it's harder when you try to do it on your own...at least that's what happens for me.

Just remember that no matter how down you get...or stuck...remember to have unlimited possibilities....I dare you to "defy gravity"......that's what I'm doing right now....I may not win all the battles, but I know I will win the war...with the help of my heavenly father! GOOD LUCK!

Listen to this song...it's just one song that got me pumped up the past two days! :)

Sincerely,

A woman "Defying Gravity" as we speak, Chrissy!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

"Defying Gravity"
music and lyrics by Stephen Schwartz
(Copyright by Stephen Schwartz. Used with permission.)
GLINDA
Why couldn't you have stayed calm, for once! Instead of flying off the handle -- !
I hope you're happy
I hope you're happy now
I hope you're happy how you've
Hurt your cause forever
I hope you think you're clever

ELPHABA
I hope you're happy
I hope you're happy too
I hope you're proud how you would
Grovel in submission
To feed your own ambition

GLINDA & ELPHABA
So though I can't imagine how
I hope you're happy
Right now

GLINDA
Elphie, listen to me. Just say you're sorry!
You can still be with The Wizard
What you've worked and waited for
You can have all you ever wanted -

ELPHABA
I know
But I don't want it - No!
I can't want it anymore
Something has changed within me
Something is not the same
I'm through with playing by
The rules of someone else's game
Too late for second-guessing
Too late to go back to sleep
It's time to trust my instincts
Close my eyes
And leap...
It's time to try defying gravity
I think I'll try defying gravity
And you can't pull me down

GLINDA
Can't I make you understand
You're having delusions of grandeur?

ELPHABA
I'm through accepting limits
Cuz someone says they're so
Some things I cannot change
But till I try I'll never know
Too long I've been afraid of
Losing love I guess I've lost
Well if that's love
It comes at much too high a cost
I'd sooner buy defying gravity
Kiss me goodbye, I'm defying gravity
And you can't pull me down!
Glinda, come with me. Think of what we could do - together!

Unlimited
Together we're unlimited
Together we'll be the greatest team There's ever been - Glinda!
Dreams the way we planned 'em

GLINDA
If we work in tandem

GLINDA & ELPHABA
There's no fight we cannot win
Just you and I, defying gravity
With you and I defying gravity

ELPHABA
They'll never bring us down!
Well, are you coming?

(GLINDA decides to stay behind.)

GLINDA
I hope you're happy
I hope your happy now that your choosing this -

ELPHABA
You too--I hope it brings you bliss

GLINDA & ELPHABAI really hope you get it
And you don't live to regret it
I hope you're happy in the end
I hope you're happy my friend

ELPHABA
So if you care to find me
Look to the Western sky!
As someone told me lately
Everyone deserves the chance to fly
And if I'm flying solo
At least I'm flying free
To those who ground me
Take a message back from me!
Tell them how I am defying gravity
I'm flying high, defying gravity
And soon I'll match them in renown
And nobody in all of Oz
No Wizard that there is or was
Is ever gonna bring me down!!

GLINDAI hope you're happy

CITIZENS OF OZ
Look at her
She's wicked
Get her!!

ELPHABA
Bring me down!

CITIZENS OF OZ
No one mourns the wicked
So we got to bring her -

ELPHABAAhhhh!

CITIZENS OF OZ--Down!

Making a Way

2009-05-05T20:53:00.001-07:00

Thank you to my peeps that said prayers and thought about me. It means a lot that you all care. I had to get a booster shot today, so my body is not liking me right now. I think I am going to give in and go visit a doctor Michael found out about. He is supposed to be really good at cases like mine...the crazy and deathly sick in a weird, but twisted way! :) So keep me still on your prayer lists.

I am making way through this crazy, busy life I call my own. Don't give up on me...I am slowly getting back on the right trail. I am looking forward to getting back to my running life! :)

The Flu? Not Sure!

2009-04-29T22:05:00.000-07:00

Okay, so my lovely sinus infection might be the flu....but I have no fever...so it could be just a nastier sinus infection than I thought. Keep me in your prayers. I can't sleep, because I can't get air through my nose! :) Talk about an interesting way to live life....sleeping through my mouth is hard...perhaps I could make it into the Guinness Record Book or something...that sounds like a cool thing to do. See I'm turning a negative into a positive! :)

Detour

2009-04-27T21:34:00.000-07:00

Okay, so what was my disappointment from this last weekend....I had and still have a dang sinus infection....which meant I couldn't run the race nor support my fellow runners....which sucked! There I said it...it sucked, but I am looking forward to cleaning the slat and starting a new goal in running. I just have to get over this lovely detour...called a major pain in the butt sinus infection.

I do want to tell all my fellow RW peeps...I am so proud of each of you for making your goals into reality this past weekend. I know I haven't caught up with everyone, but I am super siked to see how awesome you are to me....very inspirational...way to succeed.

Now, pray that I beat this sinus infection so I can get back to running. :)

Lake McMurtry Race (4.4.09) Report

2009-04-19T20:43:00.000-07:00

As I look back at the 2009 Lake McMurtry Race, I can still hear the bagpipes blowing while I thought to myself what a crazy nut I really was for trying to do another race so soon after the Snake Race. Though that morning on Saturday, April 4, 2009 we were actually early, I was behind on getting my running schedule back to a normal one....whatever that may be. I think I'm starting to do the Roman way...and for those of you who do not know what the Roman way is....let's just say it is where you don't run your training schedule, then poof...you run a long race to get the jewels at the end...if you survive! :)

Any ways, I have to give a shout out to TZ for putting on a wonderful race. I know he and others put a lot of time into making it all happen. Let's just say that it's not your fault if my running shoes I got were not the one's I should have been wearing that day. It's what I get for leaving my green machine running shoes in the car....thinking that I could let my new pearl's be trail running shoes....THEY ARE NOT TRAIL RUNNING SHOES...no one told me that...I just decided they would be....I WAS WRONG!

So....running schedule off....wrong running shoes....too busy of a schedule....had to wear glasses....new gluten free diet while not getting to take any meds for allergies....soooooo no gu at the time....yep, I think that covers my list of what I could blame for not getting a better time than I got.... :) Okay, so my elements weren't perfect...the one good thing going for me that day was Dee....without my Trail Angel....I could not have finished the race....and let me tell you I wanted to stop a million times....I know, even ESB, thinks about discontinuing!

I will say this.....I had a little competition going on with the roots...yes, there were millions of them along the trail...and I kid you not....it shouldn't be called the Lake McMurtry Race....it should be called SURVIVING THE ROOTS RACE! :) All I have to say is that the score was ROOTS 4 and ESB 1,034,231 (please do not hold me to the score keeping....I'm guesstimating)! Let's just say they were in groves...it was like a freakin paradise for roots every where!

Now for the hills....wow....just when I thought there couldn't be any more steep climbs....there were more....they went on and on....yes, I admit....I had to walk several....the dang shoes I decided to wear were not equipped for this kind of challenge. I can't be mad at the shoes, just me for assuming too much from the shoes! Let's say another thing that I will not.....and I MEAN WILL NOT....be wearing the certain pair of shoes that I so decided to wear that day thinking that they would be awesome for me....I should have never let my other pair...yes...my Trail Brooks down, by leaving them in the car.

What did this massive failure on deciding the wrong shoe result in.......me sucking it up and adding a lot more to my time, plus those dang shoes zapped my energy....I had to work my butt off.....it was like trying to ride a tricycle in the Tour de France...IT JUST DOESN'T WORK....not even Lance Armstong could pull that off! :)

Okay, I think I made a point about my shoes....carrying on...the aide stations couldn't have come at a better time along the trails....thanks to Bill, Ed and Lisa.....I wouldn't have made it without you as well! It was hard for me to figure out the eating thing with this lovely gluten free diet....but I will say....I am back on my allergy medicine and it's getting better. I just break out on my face when I eat stuff with gluten...it's better than my little attack at the beginning of the race....yes, I thought I could do my chocolate gu...I was wrong....thank God for breathing techniques! When I came to the Leap O Doom...the breathing was scarier than the leap....I conquered both of those dang challenges!

The cattle rail bridges were my absolute favorite in the race.....sikes (yes, 80's lingo is back)....these were thankfully a short little challenge along the way. The first time...not so bad...second time...my shoes had killed my legs...and the bridge was a huge challenge...the spaces of the rails seemed really far away from the next....yes, things get magnified when getting tired...and needing nutrients...like electrolytes....again my Trail Angel AKA Dee gave me something something....not sure what was in the vitamin...yes, that's what we will call it....but it REALLY helped give me some energy....I wasn't Speedy Gonzalez, but I could at least face the battle with the ROOTS! :)

Any ways, when I got to the very end of the race....the lovely stairs that Ken was so sarcastic about...he warned us that we couldn't kill him when we got to the end...because of the gift that awaits at the end...he said we'd have to deal with it....well, Ken, it wasn't too bad....it was better than trying to fight off the ROOTS in the race! :) I was never so happy to see Michael at the end of the race....I saw my time and didn't care....

I had faced so many emotional, mental and physical challenges in my 3 hours 14 minutes and 45 seconds that I really didn't care...plus I had to rush off to the next 2 of 3 things for that day. Yes, we drove from Tulsa to Stillwater that morning for the race....then back from Stillwater to Tulsa for me to take a shower and go to my friends Bridal Shower....then...oh yes....back from Tulsa to Stillwater again for Jodie's 50th Birthday Surprise...soooooooo, needless to say...I was glad to be done....at the end of the race....and at the end of the day! :)

Will I do more trail running you might ask? Heck yes! I think Michael and I both agree that we need to do some actual training 2 to 3 times a week on trails....if we are going to be doing trail races...which we are! I know TZ you have to be smiling at this point!

As far as pictures go, I decided to tell little things throughout my pic album on facebook. I wanted to mix it up. Uploading pics to the blog takes some time and I thought the typed report was more important. I hope you enjoy the pics there.

GOALS FOR SUNDAY

2009-04-18T10:40:00.000-07:00

I have a few goals for tomorrow:

1. Post pictures on facebook of events in the past month.
2. Lake McMurtry Race Report!
3. Lasik Surgery Report!
4. Catch up with my family and friends on facebook and blogging!

So be ready to read some exciting reports from me. Thank you to everyone who has been here for me always. It's been a crazy busy, but fun year. Lots going on, but what's important....that my peeps are always there! Love you all! Can't wait for you to read what I will type!

Slowing Down for just a minute~

2009-04-05T15:42:00.000-07:00

Talk about running like a chicken with its head cut off...that has been my life story. It seems like my slow downs aka vacation time...tends to be busier than anything else. I will be reporting my happening within the week. I started out with my days off like so....

Thursday - Hair cut and color, drive from Tulsa to Merriam, KS to hotel, frive to KC, MO to concert, drive back to Merriam, KS to watch Twilight until 3:00 am on Friday at hotel

Friday - sleep in, drive to KC, MO one more time, then rush home so Jodie can get dogs, go to hospital to visit the Brown's (baby Nate is handsome), try to get some stuff done for the Saturday events (pack for trail race, wrap present for Wedding Shower & work stuff).

Saturday - Get up at the butt crack of dawn...ride to Stillwater for Lake McMurtry Trail Race (report coming this wee...I promise), rush back to Tulsa for Cassandra's Wedding Shower at the Summit (yes, I was able to look pretty in 35 minutes)...then rush home to get Michael...and ride back to Stillwater for Jodie's Surprise 50th Birthday party..then dinner with Chris...back home to die of tiredness and allergy attack from eating food I really can't have...

So, Sunday has been slow and easier...just some work stuff, cooking and getting ready to go to church....talk about a crazy time...any ways...more on my running later....hopefully pic from the concert as well.

Finally...the real deal..Snake Race Report!

2009-03-29T18:11:00.000-07:00

To all my fellow RW and TATURS....I'm sorry that I was such a tease, but I promise it has been worth it...to ponder on what I might just say about my Snake Race Experience....so buckle up and prepare to be amazed...Ken...grab some coffee...it might be a little while...I'm adding all my pics and story line. :)

As I woke up on Saturday, March 21st, I realized that I might need to rethink this race. Since my allergies have flared up, I haven't been able to carb load like I needed to....nor did I run as much as I should have (sorry Coach Kathy...work got in the way)...yet did any of this prevent me from running on this blessed day...NO, no it did not. As any crazy RW or TATUR...we sometimes don't think rationally about what is good or not good for us...we just care about running when we want to run...especially races!

So, I got up in plenty of time to be at the starting line without any problems or a sense of rushing effect...yet somehow...(Michael) got in my way...he was watching a show that was pre-recorded...and because of my tv addiction and add and/or adhd...I WAS DISTRACTED. Before I knew it, we were going to make it to the finish line by the skin of a nano-second...craziness. I was throwing on shoes while Michael was driving like Speedy Gonzales...talk about what I DID NOT WANT TO START OUT LIKE...it was nuts.

I actually had to put my number on while starting the race...literally running and pinning...not the ideal situation for a runner...especially race day...but I managed to use the anger of not being prepared and being there on time...to my advantage...I just ran....

As you can see, I didn't even have my ipod on right...I just looked at Ken as I ran by...looking like a nut trying to figure out where the tree is to store my food...hahahahaha. Any ways, I felt really good...surprising, since I hadn't ran but twice a week for the last two weeks...not my idea of dedicated, but I was determined to run this race (Ken talked it up so much).

Okay, now I'm looking like I have it all figured out. I've adjusted my ipod, which was amazing to have on this race...since talking to someone wasn't as good idea as I thought (more to come on that later). :) I did love the fact that the aide station was in a perfect spot. Just when I thought I couldn't go on...HELLO...there were many great people to serve us with tasty eats...now I try to be careful on what I eat...but Roman (with orders from Ken...I think) made the best dang treat I've ever tasted on a run. You know what I'm talking about. Now who in their right mind decides to combine oreos, peanut butter and m & m's? I'm not sure either, but I want to send a shout out to who the creator of this precious gem is...it's delicious..........

Nice detour on the treats...back to the race. I figured the race got it's name by where we were running...I had no idea that it literally meant I'd be weaving in and out of runners. Nice twist there. This is only my 2nd trail race, so there are probably others like this...but it was my first...and I thought a lot about the title...go figure. I like to keep my mind bouncing around. I did hundreds of saves for myself while running....but there were a couple of times that I just couldn't save myself from the life changing spills....oh yes...my 1st one....I was on my 2nd loop of the race...on my way back to the finish line...

I was moving really fast, listening to Matt West...Motions...when click...air bound...flying like Super woman...crash...look around...people asking me if I'm okay...then getting up...laughing...saying I'll be okay...then saying to myself...this is like my life...so many things get me down...stop me from living my life...but I don't let any of it for long...the devil...people...enemies...don't get to get me down for long...I was feeling very powerful...then I saw the aftermath...my injuries were there...they slowed me down...but I kept moving forward.

This pic shows not too long after I felt like Super Woman...I wish it could have shown the bruising that took place later...it really did burn and ache the rest of the time...but that's not what stopped me...I finished loop 3 and felt really good...the kind of good that I could keep running the whole 6 hours...it was a wonderful feeling...yet sadly...did not last too much longer...

I loved the leaders of our race...they zoomed by me and others so many times...they were rock stars...and I felt like I was in Jr. High band....wishing someday I could play with the big dogs one day. :) My dreams for this race were shattered...when me and some roots on the path had a disagreement at mile 14.5. The roots did not completely win, since I did finish with 16 miles total in 3:12:20...but they injured me enough with two twisted ankles that 16 miles was my finish.

Sad, I know...but sometimes things work out for the better. My hubby was awesome in following me back from the aide station...I was like a penguin trying to run somewhere...it was very comical for myself...pictures myself walking like that...but my perseverance or stubbornness...paid off...because I did do more than I thought I was going to do when the race first started off...even being rushed and crazy. I love the finisher dew rag...nice touch...lightning is right...especially with it being a rainy day!

Here are some photos for your enjoyment when Michael and I got home...

He is amazing...I couldn't do what I do without him!

I was proud...it hurt..but I didn't let it get me. What's funny about this? On Monday at work, I was limping around...bruises and scratches showing...and people were really starting to look at me weird...so I decided to let them know what really happened over the weekend. I didn't want them to think my hubby was a wife beater...which I think made it look even more like that since I was giving excuses...but really...running really can beat us up! :) I PROMISE...IT'S THE RUNNING! :)

I'm here to pump you up! Actually all my runner friends, family and non-runners pump me up. I love the energy I get from the group...the racers that day were phenomenal...so energetic and encouraging...each one is a blessing!

One of the most important things to remember is to always keep going and moving forward. There's enough to get us down (roots, our own two feet, etc.) in life. We just always need to remember when down on the ground...we must get up, dust ourselves off and move forward. :)

This is Chrissy Whitten...AKA Energizer Spud Bunny (ESB) I just keep going and going and going...it's tough to balance all that I get myself into...but I try to be there for a good percentage of it all! I hope you enjoyed my report...hope it was worth the wait!

Snake Race Report

2009-03-24T19:29:00.000-07:00

Coming soon...I promise!

Balance

2009-03-16T08:12:00.000-07:00

Ever need balance in your life? Well, I know I am definitely in need of balance once again for my life. It is so easy to get out of balance. Too much of anything....is too much! I want to balance the good, the bad, the ugly and the crazy busy life. I thought this was a great pic to remind me that even the heaviest of things can be balanced! I hope this finds each of you balancing life as it comes our way. Sometimes we just have to step it up and get balanced. I did a little research to find tips on balance...read the article below...this was a quick find...if you have better ones, please share with us all! 10 Tips for a Physically and Mentally Balanced Life

By Garrett J. Braunreiter, GHF's Success Coach

Every moment of every day, we have the ability to create for ourselves new beginnings and new challenges that will help us reach our full potential, and that all things are possible. It's easy to get overwhelmed by negative thoughts, people, and circumstances, but we can take steps to understand what it means to live a balanced life. Vital health and peace of mind go hand in hand - you can't be physically super fit without being mentally super fit as well. And more and more people today are interested in becoming truly healthy - not just physically - but mentally, spiritually, and emotionally as well.

Here are 10 tips to keep yourself in balance:
1. Exercise. A well-rounded fitness routine includes strength training, aerobic conditioning, and flexibility. Critical to your success in staying balanced is to make exercise a TOP PRIORITY in your life - and staying committed to it. Being fit helps you to enjoy life. It increases mental sharpness and physical endurance. An energized body helps give you a positive outlook on life, plus you look great, feel great, and reduce your risk of disease. (RUN, RUN, RUN)

2. Drink 8-10 glasses of water a day.Water helps transport vital nutrients, regulates body temperature, eases digestion, keeps joints supple, cleans out your body, keeps skin healthy and young. Not drinking enough leads to dehydration, resulting in headaches, fatigue, dizziness, constipation, and foggy memory.

Not drinking enough water can lead to excess water weight, because our bodies will store water outside our cells. That's where you feel bloaty and heavy. Water helps the liver do its job more efficiently, namely in metabolizing fat. If you're not consuming enough water, your liver has to work overtime with its other primary function: detoxifying the body. Water helps maximizes the liver's efficiency of both jobs, so you keep your insides clean, your weight healthy, and get rid of fat.

3. Life is perfect, even if you don't think it is. God deals you a hand every day. What you get is what you get. Your job is to do the best you can with the hand you're dealt. That doesn't mean you have to "lie down and play dead." What can you do better to make your life MORE perfect? Know that you can create your dreams, no matter how difficult life can be at times.

4. Feel the fear and do it anyway. Helen Keller once said, "Life is either a series of adventures, or it is nothing." We all have this shield of armor that protects us from some aspect of life. This shield is your comfort zone. And that comfort zone is a haven for disintegration. When you take off this armor, the only thing you're risking is GROWTH, a wonderful life, high energy, and a leaner body.

5. Be a daily visionary.Visualize your goals and your dreams - every day. Take a five-minute break from your computer, stop off on the side of the road in between sales meetings, and create a motion picture on the screen of your mind of your goals, your dreams, of how you'd like your life to be. Visualize yourself already in possession of your wishes.

6. Feed your body well. Your diet can help prevent illness and disease. Some 300,000 deaths per year are a result of poor lifestyle choices, and nutrition habits is one of those poor choices. 1) Eat at least 5 servings of fruits and veggies a day, 2) Eat at least 4 balanced meals a day, 3) Eat a variety of fruits and veggies - in different colors. These colors will give you a greater spectrum of valuable disease-fighting nutrients.

7. Live in the present. Yesterday's gone. Tomorrow never comes. Be fully present each moment and free yourself from the ball-and-chain of yesterday and tomorrow. Everything is always in the present moment, so live it fully.

8. Live with integrity. You talk the talk, but can you walk the walk? Being in integrity means you really are who you appear to be. How you live your life is reflected in your commitments, your values, your beliefs, your sense of right and wrong. When you live in harmony with what you believe in, you have peace and happiness flowing into your life.

9. Develop high self-esteem. You already know how you benefit from a high self-esteem. People who you care about benefit, too. Let go of your emotional baggage, treat yourself with respect. Your attitude - how you think, feel, and act - mirrors how you feel about yourself.

10. Live respectfully. You are NOT at the mercy of your circumstances. George Bernard Shaw said, "The winners in life look for the ideal circumstances, and if they cannot find them, THEY MAKE THEM." Are YOU letting your present results and circumstances control YOU? Are YOU making things happen?

This article was provide by Garrett J. Braunreiter, CSCS, GHF's Success Coach. Please visit his site at http://www.worldpeakperformance.com

I'm stuffed!

2009-03-04T23:03:00.000-08:00

This little guy is a perfect illustration of my emotions, eating and more...ever feel stuffed...like you can't eat one more...or hear or think about one more issue or life lesson...well...I may feel like I can't...but I want to CANCEL/CANCEL the negative and bring on the positive...I think I've been able to process some information and food lately...and feel much better for it. I'm excited about running with the group tonight!

Just remember when you get like this little guy...smile...and remind yourself to take time to process anything and everything! Life is too short to hold it all in! There's only so much one can hold in! Have an awesome day letting it happen...much love being sent out!

Enough Said! :)

2009-03-04T22:17:00.000-08:00

Two Steps Forward, then Two Steps Back

2009-03-03T05:18:00.000-08:00

How many of us do this dance where we go two steps forward, then two steps back? Actually I think my steps increase many times. I hope to be moving forward...even with all the chaos that is around us. Thank you all for the prayers, we need them. There's lots of turmoil around us. So many people are going through many things...such as divorce, losing their job, infertility, anger, death and more. I want to look at the sunny side of life....I may take two or more steps back...but I will move forward.

We've gone through many things in our walk...and guess what...we are still here...we are so blessed and lucky....we have a wonderful family and friends....vehicles to drive...true love...running :)...roof over our heads...food in our tummy...and many, many more blessings. I thank God for eye sight to stop and smell those roses.

Pity parties come and go, but blessings are always here. If you are reading this...I pray you get to take the steps forward. Life definitely throws us curve balls all the time...yet you can still hit those suckers out of the ballpark. I look forward to the adventures...for I know there will be a couple of pity parties that take me steps back...but I know I'll start to move forward in no time.

Cheers to being alive and experiencing life through the good, the bad and the ugly. I'm going to KEEP MOVING FORWARD...because stepping backgrounds doesn't allow me to cross the finish line! :)

Trials Each Day

2009-02-27T04:26:00.000-08:00

Thank God yesterday finally ended! The past couple of weeks has been really tough. It seems like there's trials in all aspects in my categories of life. Just know for those that care...I'm a survivor...it takes me breaking down, then giving it to God fully before I can move forward. I don't understand a lot of things that happen in life, but I'm glad when I'm able to conquer and move on.

Ever feel like you are in limbo or in a holding tank? I do...many times in my life. I try so hard not to lean on people...I even try so hard to focus on other people just so I don't have to deal. Guess what...nothing goes away...trials will still be here no matter if we acknowledge them or not. I wish I could take the trials away, but I can't. I wish I could fix every problem, but I can't. I wish I could make everyone happy, but I can't. I wish I could be okay with a lot of things, but I can't.

The only thing I can do is trust God in guiding me through...and hope that I choose the right path more than the wrong. I can pray! It's not fun feeling useless...but I'm only useless when I get in the way of His plan.

Keep me in your prayers. There's a weight of my life that's weighing me down...what those things are...are for me to have and deal with....I just need prayers. God is so good in waking me up and hitting me on the head. He never gives up! PRAISE GOD!

I hope that whatever is going on in your life...that you would pray about it and face it head on...because it doesn't just go away...we eventually have to deal. The only thing I can do...is pray for you. If any of you have prayer requests, feel free to e-mail me at bestill78@gmail.com. Love you all! Thanks for being there for me...no matter how crazy I am! :)

Law of the Garbage Truck!

2009-02-23T13:13:00.000-08:00

I am having a crazy start of the week. Lots going on...and my brain is not wanting to work with me today...nor is my attitude! I got this little nugget via e-mail over a week ago...but I finally read it today. God is so good in getting me back in the mood....love you all! Hope your week goes smoother than mine! Enjoy!

Law of the Garbage Truck

One day I hopped in a taxi and we took off for the airport. We were
driving in the right lane when suddenly a black car jumped out of a
parking space right in front of us. My taxi driver slammed on his
brakes, skidded, and missed the other car by just inches! The driver of
the other car whipped his head around and started yelling at us. My taxi
driver just smiled and waved at the guy. And I mean, he was really
friendly. So I asked, 'Why did you just do that? This guy almost ruined
your car and sent us to the hospital! 'This is when my taxi driver
taught me what I now call, 'The Law of the Garbage Truck.'

He explained that many people are like garbage trucks. They run around
full of garbage, full of frustration, full of anger, and full of
disappointment. As their garbage piles up, they need a place to dump it
and sometimes they'll dump it on you. Don't take it personally. Just
smile, wave, wish them well, and move on. Don't take their garbage and
spread it to other people at work, at home, or on the streets. The
bottom line is that successful people do not let garbage trucks take over
their day. Life's too short to wake up in the morning with regrets,
so...Love the people who treat you right. Pray for the ones who don't.
Life is ten percent what you make it and ninety percent how you take it!
Have a blessed, garbage-free day!

Change

2009-02-20T10:00:00.000-08:00

“Even though we've changed and we're all finding our own place in the world, we all know that when the tears fall or the smile spreads across our face, we'll come to each other because no matter where this crazy world takes us, nothing will ever change so much to the point where we're not all still friends.” Unknown

Dan Man Report

2009-02-12T08:13:00.000-08:00

Sorry, it's taken me this long to report back from my amazing experience at the 2009 Dan Man Trail Race, where I discovered just how crazy trail racing can really be...yet I really love it...so I've decided...oh yes....we are not supposed to give ourselves a nickname, but.....I couldn't help it. I've been told too many times that I'm like the energizer bunny...lots of energy...perhaps too much at times....so......dadadadadadadadadadadadadadada.....drum roll. please....I shall see myself as the Energizer Spud Bunny! :) What do you think? Please provide feedback in the comments section! :)

Since I had the energizer bunny name in my head from my 4-H nickname...I thought I'd research the potato head site...just in case I found something that related....low and behold...the picture you see in the post was there....waiting for me to claim it! :) I am either buying or ordering the little gem today. :0 )

Back to the Dan Man Race Report --- I had a blast running this race...low and behold...Jason and I beat out the Girl Group that was behind us...and shhhhhh a lot of the Piranha Team! :) I hate to say it, but I am very competitive...even though I am far off from being a professional racer or someone to beat...I still love to compete and get my juices flowing...BRING IT ON! :)

I couldn't believe how much sand, hills aka drop offs aka near death looking cliffs, smooth ground or as smooth as it could be, 57% grade that lasted miles ;)....plus anything and everything that covers leaves, trees, dirt, water and pipelines! It was definitely an experience that I am happy to say I was a part of...this is just the beginning of my trail racing career!

If you have not ran one, please try it out....it makes for a terrific, diverse challenge!

DAN MAN 1/2 Marathon

2009-02-07T07:00:00.000-08:00

Hey Everyone! As you read this, I could possibly be running my 1st 1/2 marathon race ever! I know, I did the full marathon before the 1/2 marathon. I like to go all out, then relax! :0 ) This means a lot to be running this race no matter what happens at it. Since my surgery got in my way for 5 months of last year, it means so much more to be racing again.

Running is a great addiction! I'm in love with it! I hate when I don't get to do it! There's something to say for setting a goal, working your butt off to get the goal in action, and accomplishing the goal by sweat, blood and tears! Oh how I could go on and on and on and on and on about running.

I have many close friends, who are like family that share my same running addiction! I'm so blessed to have their crazy personalities in my life. Now with that said, pray for Michael (and the rest of us running) because this will be his longest run ever....he's been getting that joy of adding miles for the first time for weeks now...but this will definitely be an amazing accomplishment for him. I'm so proud of him and glad to be a part of this milestone for him. He has no idea just what it will bring emotionally, physically, mentally and spiritually. I can't wait! :) Stay tuned for our results and stories from our adventure from today!

THE MAN RULES - HILARIOUS~

2009-02-06T12:47:00.001-08:00

It seems that the forwards I get are in multiples, so I'm posting yet another one online instead of forwarding. I thought this was hilarious....and I mean hilarious. This is for all my buddies, both male and female. H-I-L-A-R-I-O-U-S!

The Man Rules
At last a guy has taken the time to write this all down
Finally , the guys' side of the story. ( I must admit, it's pretty good.) We always hear ' the rules 'From the female side. Now here are the rules from the male side. These are our rules!

Please note.. these are all numbered '1 ' ON PURPOSE!
1. Men are NOT mind readers.
1. Learn to work the toilet seat. You're a big girl. If it's up, put it down. We need it up, you need it down. You don't hear us complaining about you leaving it down.
1. Sunday sports. It's like the full moon or the changing of the tides. Let it be.
1. Crying is blackmail.
1. Ask for what you want. Let us be clear on this one: Subtle hints do not work! Strong hints do not work! Obvious hints do not work! Just say it!
1. Yes and No are perfectly acceptable answers to almost every question.
1. Come to us with a problem only if you want help solving it. That's what we do. Sympathy is what your girlfriends are for.
1. Anything we said 6 months ago is inadmissible in an argument. In fact, all comments become Null and void after 7 Days.
1. If you think you're fat, you probably are. Don't ask us.
1. If something we said can be interpreted two ways and one of the ways makes you sad or angry, we meant the other one
1. You can either ask us to do something Or tell us how you want it done. Not both. If you already know best how to do it, just do it yourself.
1. Whenever possible, Please say whatever you have to say during commercials.
1. Christopher Columbus did NOT need directions and neither do we.
1. ALL men see in only 16 colours, like Windows default settings.Peach, for example, is a fruit, not A colour. Pumpkin is also a fruit. We have no idea what mauve is.
1. If it itches, it will be scratched. We do that.
1. If we ask what is wrong and you say 'nothing,' We will act like nothings wrong. We know you are lying, but it is just not worth the hassle.
1. If you ask a question you don't want an answer to, Expect an answer you don't want to hear.1. When we have to go somewhere, absolutely anything you wear is fine... Really.
1. Don't ask us what we're thinking about unless you are prepared to discuss such topics as football or motor sports.
1. You have enough clothes.
1. You have too many shoes.
1. I am in shape. Round IS a shape!
1. Thank you for reading this. Yes, I know, I have to sleep on the couch tonight; But did you know men really don't mind that? It's like camping.
Pass this to as many men as you can - to give them a laugh.
Pass this to as many women as you can - to give them a bigger laugh.

Where Do I Sign Up?

2009-02-05T09:35:00.000-08:00

Don't get me wrong.....I praise God that we will be in the 60's this week instead of our teens up to 30's....but I am ready to sign up for the warmer weather. It seems like the last 2 weeks have been total chaos on too much to do and not enough time for any of us. I am ready to sign up for this place in the picture....give me some relaxation and time! :) That sounds like a plan I'd love to follow!

For those of us struggling with time and to do's, I hope we can make sure to take care of us! I need to remember to get 8 hours of sleep, eat healthy foods that make me feel good and enjoy what is now! I'm glad I've come a long ways from my major pity parties....I think life doesn't exist without a few of them! :)

So, who will join me in signing up?

Remembering the Ten

2009-01-27T18:43:00.000-08:00

Kendall Durfey, Bjorn Fahlstrom, Nate Fleming, Will Hancock, Daniel Lawson, Brian Luinstra, Denver Mills, Pat Noyes, Bill Teegins and Jared Weiberg were the 10 members of the men’s basketball team travel party who died in a plane crash on Jan. 27, 2001, while returning from a game at Colorado.

Visit http://www.okstate.com/fls/200/memorial/remembered.htm to learn more.

We remember ...
Kendall Carlton Durfey Television/Radio Engineer August 1, 1962

Bjorn Gunnar Fahlstrom Corporate Aviation Pilot February 13, 1970

Nathan Zane Fleming Scholar/Athlete September 11, 1980

William Ransom Hancock III Media Relations Coordinator April 6, 1969

Daniel Paul Lawson, Jr. Scholar/Athlete July 28, 1979

Brian Wayne Luinstra Athletic Trainer July 26, 1971

Denver Ray Mills CPA by Profession, Pilot by Passion January 31, 1945

Pat Noyes Director of Basketball Operations July 11, 1973

William B. Tietgens (Teegins) Loved by Many July 26, 1952

Jared Grant Weiberg Student Assistant March 9, 1978

Social Life and Beyond

2009-01-20T08:07:00.000-08:00

I have been so busy hanging out with friends and family, that I haven't had the time to post much of anything. I am so blessed to have those in my life that build me up and provide time in their schedules for me. Thank you for all of you in making my life overflowing with friendship and adventures. May you be blessed as much as I am!

I apologize for not getting pictures up regarding recent travels and events. I'm afraid there is so many that you will have to look on my facebook account to get more insight from pictures. I will do a mass summary of a lot of things on here, but you will have to be patient with me. The pictures will be coming soon (on facebook).

I did want to include this hilarious e-mail from one of my friends. It makes you really think about everyone that is overloaded and busy. Just think what would happen if you completely stopped everything in your life......what would happen to you and those around you? It really makes me wonder. I know the person I am now...makes for a different ending if I ever stopped everything from before. Any ways, great things to ponder. Enjoy the story!

A man came home from work and found his three children outside, still in their pajamas, playing in the mud, with empty food boxes and wrappers strewn all around the front yard. The door of his wife's car was open, as was the front door to the house and there was no sign of the dog. Proceeding into the entry, he found an even bigger mess. A lamp had been knocked over, and the throw rug was wadded against one wall. In the front room the TV was loudly blaring a Cartoon channel, and the family room was strewn with toys and various items of clothing. In the kitchen, dishes filled the sink, breakfast food was spilled on the table, the fridge door was open wide, dog food was spilled on the floor, a broken glass lay under the table, and a small pile of sand was spread by the back door. He quickly headed up the stairs, stepping over toys and more piles of clothes, looking for his wife. He was worried she might be ill, or that something serious had happened.

He was met with a small trickle of water as it made its way out the bathroom door. As he peered inside he found wet towels, scummy soap and more toys strewn over the floor.
Miles of toilet paper lay in a heap and toothpaste had been smeared over the mirror and walls.
As he rushed to the bedroom, he found his wife still curled up in the bed in her pajamas, reading a novel. She looked up at him, smiled, and asked how his day went.
He looked at her bewildered and asked, 'What happened here today?'
She again smiled and answered, 'You know every day when you come home from work and you ask me what in the world I do all day?' 'Yes,' was his incredulous reply.She answered, 'Well, today I didn't do it.'

Priceless.

Logical Once You Think About It

2009-01-07T07:00:00.000-08:00

A friend of mine sent this awesome e-mail explaining some wonderful foods for us to eat. Enjoy the read!

It's been said that God first separated the salt water from the fresh, made dry land, planted a garden, made animals and fish... all before making a human. He made and provided what we'd need before we were born. These are best & more powerful when eaten raw. We're such slow learners... God left us great clues as to what foods help what part of our body! God's Pharmacy! Amazing!

A sliced Carrot looks like the human eye. The pupil, iris and radiating lines look just like the human eye... and YES, science now shows carrots greatly enhance blood flow to and function of the eyes.

A Tomato has four chambers and is red. The heart has four chambers and is red. All o f the research shows tomatoes are loaded with lycopine and are indeed pure heart and blood food.

Grapes hang in a cluster that has the shape of the heart. Each grape looks like a blood cell and all of the research today shows grapes are also profound heart and blood vitalizing food.

A Walnut looks like a little brain, a left and right hemisphere, upper cerebrums and lower cerebellums. Even the wrinkles or folds on the nut are just like the neo-cortex. We now know walnuts help develop more than three (3) dozen neuron-transmitters for brain function.

Kidney Beans actually heal and help maintain kidney function and yes, they look exactly like the human kidneys.

Celery, Bok Choy, Rhubarb and many more look just like bones. These foods specifically target bone strength. Bones are 23% sodium and these foods are 23% sodium. If you don't have enough sodium in your diet, the body pulls it from the bones, thus making them weak. These foods replenish the skeletal needs of the body.

Avocado's, Eggplant and Pears target the health and function of the womb and cervix of the female - they look just like these organs. Today's research shows that when a woman eats one avocado a week, it balances hormones, sheds unwanted birth weight, and prevents cervical cancers. And how profound is this? It takes exactly nine (9) months to grow an avocado from blossom to ripened fruit. There are over 14,000 photolytic chemical constituents of nutrition in each one of these foods (modern science has only studied and named about 141 of them).

Figs are full of seeds and hang in twos when they grow. Figs increase the mobility of male sperm and increase the numbers of Sperm as well to overcome male sterility.

Sweet Potatoes look like the pancreas and actually balance the glycemic index of diabetics.

Olives assist the health and function of the ovaries

Oranges, Grapefruits, and other Citrus fruits look just like the mammary glands of the female and actually assist the health of the breasts and the movement of lymph in and out of the breasts.

Onions look like the body's cells. Today's research shows onions help clear waste materials from all of the body cells. They even produce tears which wash the epithelial layers of the eyes. A working companion, Garlic, also helps eliminate waste materials and dangerous free radicals from the body.

100 Things that Make Me Happy

2009-01-06T07:00:00.000-08:00

100 Things that Make Me Happy

My Aunt Tracy had a list of a 100 things that makes me happy some time ago. As I am trying to get caught up in the blogging world, I thought this would be a great things to do....make my list of 100 things that makes me happy within the 10 minute challenge...here you go for this list of mine...it is not in any order, but things that popped in my mind within the 10 minutes. Enjoy!

God's Unconditional Love
my hubby
my family
rain
hot bubble bath with jets
hot tubs
swimming
laughing
crying over a good story
reading a book
running
pilates
dancing
music
singing
church
my friends
kids
eye sight
my house
candles
chocolate
breathing
walking
4-H
working
spending time in prayer
scripture
starbucks
river
waterfalls
dragonflies
the zoo
amusement parks
road trips
california weather
paris
marathons
lessons learned
hiking
mountains
glitter
pictures
trees
birthdays
football
spring
fall
airplanes
hawaii (thinking about it)
Alaskan cruise (thinking about it)
white beaches
clear crystal blue water
rocks
comedians
tv
roller skates
sunsets
brownies
creamy caramel
sleeping
good smelling shampoo
bath and body
ROSS
shopping
skipping
jump rope
weight loss
healthy lifestyle changes
red rock canyon YUMMY
pandas
Great Grandparents
peanut butter on pancakes
rainbows
movies
computers
blogging
facebook
talking on the phone
texting to a point
comic strips
organizing anything
making a list
completing a list
experiencing something new
accomplishing my Masters
loving my hubby
watching my niece and nephew
helping people
praying with others
my car
surviving with God's help
cali lily
roses
parks
statues
architecture
paintings
watching people
the thought of Heaven!

How about you? Are there things that make you happy? Could you come up with a list of 100 in 10 minutes?

Tagged a lonf time ago by Super Dave

2009-01-05T07:00:00.000-08:00

Super Dave tagged me a long time ago...back in June...I had this in my saved draft section...and low and behold, I never did complete it....so SUPER DAVE...sorry it took me this long to respond...he requested that I answer 5 questions. My answers are below.

1- How would you describe your running 10 years ago?

Hmmm...10 years ago...that would be 1998...I would say hardly ever did I run...this was during my phase in life where I took point (ballet)...tried to start running to train for a marathon....didn't get too far in running...when I ended up with tendinitis in both legs. I had no idea what was happening to me...I just know I ended up having to crawl around to get myself to the Voo Doo Village...it was not pretty...so that ended running for a long time. Let's just say it is very important to have a good pair of running shoes that are not 5 years old...I know...bad Chrissy. I was only 20...I didn't know any better at the time..or I chose not to!

2-What is your best and worst run/race experience?

Okay, the worst had to be the first time I ran that 17 miles and felt major pain during the marathon training. I had no idea I could hurt so much...thank God for Super Dave and Crazy Joe...they helped me through that day...mostly Joe had to kick my butt to get me to finish...there was tears...pain...more tear...then joy.

The Best race....oh, I'll never forget crossing the finish line with Joe at the Route 66 Marathon in November 2007. It was such an amazing feeling that I shall never ever want to forget nor can. It's the greatest feeling to accomplish something so gigantic! When I had to watch Bobby finish at the 2008 one, it was bitter sweet. I was excited for him for finishing such an amazing thing....but I had tears knowing that I wasn't able to participate.

3- Why do you run?

I love being with my running family members. It's such a rush to add mileage and encourage others to push themselves to greater heights. I AM ADDICTED!

4- What is the best or worst piece of advice you've been given about running?
Best - Listen to your body.....definitely...it tells you everything! Tear = drink more water and get goo in your system!

Worst - You can't do it...it's too hard. I had many people tell me I was crazy and that running a long distance was not a good thing. I'm sure glad I did not listen to any of the haters out there! :)

5- Tell us something surprising about yourself that not many people would know.
I have a tattoo on my hip!

Here are the rules:If you have been tagged, you will find your name at the end of this post. You should then copy the rules (or your version of them), and the set of questions onto your blog post, provide your own answers, and then tag up to 5 new people.Just to be sure that everyone tagged knows they have been invited to play, go to their blogs and leave them a special comment letting them know, and refer them to your blog for details.One more thing, once they've answered the questions on their own blog, they should come back to yours to tell you.

I'm not sure if you have answered this before. If so, let me know. I'll tag someone else!
1. Amy
2. Lisa
3. Deon
4. Bobby
5. Susan

Catching Up With My Peeps!

2009-01-04T12:00:00.000-08:00

Okay, for all those that got bombed by my comments...sorry it took me so long to read your stuff. I stayed up till 3:15 a.m. on 1.4.09 to get caught up with those that I have on my blog. I added a couple of you...then realized I had missed someone...so I should be updated on those that I have been reading...before I took a break from my blogging world into the craziness of reality at the end of 2008.....AGAIN...THANK GOD IT'S 2009!

So, I will do my best to keep up with you all. It's not right when I do not. If you read my blog...and somehow are not linked to the left......PLEASE post me a comment to say...HEY YOU DID NOT ADD ME! You may be new to my blogging world....and I love adding new people.

ANYWAYS...I feel like I am somewhat caught up with you....for those that have been posting. May 2009 be the year I keep up with life...and not let the negative life happenings get in my way. I shall be one of the Duck players from the Bowl Game last week that hurdled players to score more points...see I can take a positive lesson from a negative experience! :)

HAPPY NEW YEAR

2009-01-03T21:42:00.000-08:00

I pray that the Lord blesses you in 2009! May you enjoy more time with family and friends! May you be health conscious and take care of yourself. I look forward to putting last year in the history book and writing a new chapter of living life to the fullest! Michael and I had a wonderful time this past week traveling over 3200 miles total. We got to see wonderful friends while seeing some pretty spectacular places. God has definitely created some beautiful sites to see. From our home to yours, we wish you the best and hope you thrive in 2009! Love you lots! We look forward to spending more time with you throughout the year! For those that are loyal readers, I'm shooting for more posts while keeping up with yours! Post one thing that you want to work on this year!

Winter Cold Hits Chrissy

2008-12-23T19:04:00.000-08:00

Oh how true it really is...I tried to bulldoze through the cold season, but low and behold...I have a winter cold...it's effecting my breathing, sleeping and talking. For those blessed souls that have had to talk to me, I apologize for the rumbled, scratchy words. I still am trying to talk, but I think it's getting harder to decipher my words for those listening. I pray that you are not hit with this winter cold, because it is not fun.

I hope that you all have a very Merry Christmas over the next 2 - 5 days or however long you have to spend them. A key thing to remember is this...life gives us many festive people for us to watch or communicate with...praise God that we have those people with us today. Enjoy every minute with your loved ones and close friends! It's a true blessing for me to have you as a friend! Love you!

How to Live Life to the Fullest

2008-12-22T07:48:00.000-08:00

How to Live Life to the Fullest - Source found at http://www.wikihow.com/Live-Life-to-the-Fullest
Life is short, and everyone should live life to the fullest! You only get one chance to live. Make it the best. Each person lives differently, so make the spotlights shine on your life!

Make a list of things you want to do before a certain birthday. For example, list thirty things you want to do before you turn thirty. Your list can be made up of places to visit, people to meet or befriend, skills to acquire, or just fun things to do. This way, you have some goals to aim at, and you can keep track of what you have done and what you still want to do.
Make a to-do list or a schedule every day! Don't just lay around all day without painting the fence, visiting Aunt Mary Ann, or finally taking that walk to the park. Have fun!
Remember "Carpe Diem" or "seize the day." - Live life in the moment. The only thing that is assured in life is this moment and death. So cherish every moment of life and make it worthwhile.
Try making life better for the less fortunate people in the world. They could be anyone, from an orphan in Africa to a pauper in Calcutta. Some dollars less in your account will not make a significant difference to you but will make an impact on someone's life. These are the deeds that make you happy in reality, knowing that you have made a difference.
Be comfortable with yourself. Love and accept yourself, even if others don't. Know who you are. You will naturally become an outgoing person if you can do this. Also, have an internal locus of control (an internal locus of control implies the belief that one is largely in control of the things that happen to her/him), meaning be who you are and stay true no matter the situation. Be strong and continue to grow your entire life.
Accept other people, even if they're different. Really different. You don't have to like everyone, just show acceptance and tolerance and you'll be cool with everyone (extremely important in connections later on). Also understand not everyone has your world view, thinks like you, or has the same values. But one thing everyone does want is to be treated kindly. You can't judge anyone else because you don't know what that person has been through and how it's affected them. Not everyone reacts to the same situations the same way. Some have more tolerance than others. Judging anyone is purely to organize your own little world into making a little more sense.
Find a purpose or meaning to your life. Whether that be a cause to help the world, religion, or just any kind of worthwhile goal (world domination only if you'll treat the world right).
Accept death. Yes, it can be scary. But it's going to happen, one day you will die. Let it echo through you, and you can begin to appreciate life. Trust you will be okay. Trust it or you'll go crazy.Live your life with the motto " If I die now I die happy ." Wouldn't it be nice if supposedly you would die now to know that many people would attend your funeral because you've been a great person ?
Stop caring what other people think about you. If you've done the previous step, then this one should be easy. Just apply the faith and trust in the fact that you will die someday, to you, and the fact that you were meant to be yourself no matter what other people say.

Motto From An E-mail

2008-12-19T12:31:00.000-08:00

This was at the end of a hilarious e-mail about eating over the holidays. I decided only to post the motto, because being a somewhat health nut...I couldn't bear to put the not so good advice on my blog. I did love the motto at the end. It paints a hilarious picture in my head.

"Life should NOT be a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in an attractive and well preserved body, but rather to skid in sideways, chocolate in one hand, body thoroughly used up, totally worn out and screaming "WOO HOO what a ride!"

Merry Christmas - White Christmas

2008-12-18T11:33:00.000-08:00

My friend Jennifer sends me the neatest holiday cards online. Click on the website below to hear A White Christmas. I know I haven't been able to read everybody's blogs lately, I promise I will get better.

http://www.aroundmd.com/whitechristmas/

WHY WOMEN CAN'T SLEEP

2008-12-09T07:17:00.000-08:00

WHY WOMEN CAN'T SLEEP Have you ever wondered how a woman's brain works? Well....it's finally explained here in one, easy-to-understand illustration (in the e-mail sent to me, the pic is animated):

Every one of those little blue balls is a thought about something that needs to be done, a decision or a problem that needs to be solved. A man, only has 2 balls and they consume all his thoughts.

Okay, so this might be a little harsh for the men out there. One of my friends sent this to me. I thought it was hilarious. Since I haven't had time to post past pics, I thought I'd at least get a new post up. Sorry to all my buddies out there. I do know the woman's brain has a lot going on. At least, my brain does...too much multi-tasking. I heard it can kill brain cells! :) Hope all is going well. I had my second run last night. It felt so much better than last Thursdays run, which was my first day back officially. Boy have I missed running!

Trail Zombie Tagged Me - Crazy 8's

2008-12-04T09:18:00.000-08:00

Crazy Eights!
Crazy Eights I have been tagged in the Crazy Eights game by Ken aka T Z....it was back in November, but I just read it today! :) Sorry for being a bum!

8 shows I love to watch (haha...I definitely have more than 8)

1. The Mentalist
2. The Big Bang Theory
3. The Office
4. Boston Legal
5. Pushing Daisies
6. Lost
7. Private Practice
8. Grey's Anatomy

8 places I love to eat

1. Tei Kei's (love the coconut chicken sushi)
2. PF Chang's (it's pushing it, used to be my all time fav)
3. Brio's (Kansas City, KS & Allen, TX)
4. Los Cabos
5. Bad Brad's
6. Panera
7. Quizno's
8. The Smoothie King

8 things I did yesterday

1. Trouble shooting problems at work
2. worked on the Jan/Feb/March Clover Connection Newsletter
3. attend the 2008 Tulsa County OHCE Holiday Luncheon
4. blogged
5. prayed a lot...my brother-in-law was in the hospital
6. visited a dear friend in the hospital and sat in the lobby with his family
7. ate really late with hubby at Chili's...nachos and Chocolate Molten Cake...YUMMY
8. like Erin...I had some fun! :)

8 things I look forward to

1. Christmas with family...Leslie and Kyle are coming home for a visit!
2. Bowl Game...traveling with my hubby to San Diego, CA...hopefully
3. Seeing my best friends on our trip to Cali
4. GETTING BACK TO RUNNING with my peeps...FINALLY....I found out TODAY (12.4.08) from my Doctor's office that I am clear to start out slow, then build up! :) Half Marathon in April...here I come!
5. GETTING PREGO! It's in the dear Lord's hands!
6. Reading the Christmas story...thank God for sending His son! Happy Birthday, Jesus!
7. Seeing new places I haven't been to!
8. Spring weather!

8 things I love about fall

1. Fall and Spring are the perfect weather seasons for me!
2. TV Shows starting back
3.FOOTBALL
4. Love wearing my boots
5. Gearing up for the holiday season
6. Chili - Michael makes the best chili
7. My mom's homemade chicken and noodles
8. Award Shows

8 things on my wish list

1. an actual injury free year
2. someone to help train for their goal race (I kept this one...because I like it...I'll have to settle with training half marathon goal makers)
3. accomplishing one of my top ten goals to accomplish before 40!
4. a healthy pregnancy and baby! :)
5. people to get along
6. keep up with my life and people
7. grow longer hair
8. to be active and creative

I now tag...
1. Bobby
2. Aunt Tracy
3. Ale
4. Leslie
5. Amy
6. Deon
7. Robin
8. Uncle Dave

2 weeks...really?

2008-12-03T08:29:00.000-08:00

Has it really been 2 weeks since I last posted anything? Yes, my friends and family....it unfortunately has. I promise I will be catching up on all your amazing posts. I've already started with a couple of you, beware of me going comment crazy! Since my last post was from my time with my family at Frontier City...which happened on October 25th...I will do a bullet update of my life for those that are interested. I will try to post some pictures (they tell so much) of the events and adventures of November.

Sunday, October 26th: Fellowship Church's Trunk or Treat Event - Michael and I went all out with our costumes and decorations for the Trunk or Treat. I looked like a man. When you get to see the pictures, you will agree with me! :) It was a blast getting to hand out candy and see the reactions of kids and adults see our lovely attraction. :) We won 1st place, which provided us with two $10 gift cards to Chili's or Macaroni Grill. We've already used one! YUMMY!
Tuesday, October 28th: SPE Comedy Club Gathering - Though I do not have pictures of this event, we still had a pretty good time. It was my first time to visit a Comedy Club. It was very different, but not horrible. I'm not impressed with the vulgar language. The lady comedian was the best. She only had a couple of bad words, the rest was hilarious.
Saturday, November 1st: Kiwanis Pancake Breakfast (no pictures). Yes, I am in Kiwanis now! :) I've been a member since the 1st part of October. I am learning so much from my fellow members. We meet once a week on Tuesday, which we are educated with some form of a program. The breakfast was fun to work, especially when I got to see just what it's like to be the volunteer and not the leader....very educational! :)
Sunday, November 2nd: Early Thanksgiving with the Cooper's - the food was delicious...talk about starting the month off right. I did have to hear about a couple of topics that I do not like, but we managed to deal with it and move on! There are quite a few of us...we are growing in size! I just love getting to be with my family...it's always fun to catch up and relax!
Saturday, November 8th and Sunday, November 9th: Tulsa County 4-H Youth Officer Leadership Retreat. This is a favorite of my with some of our elite teens. We participate in 4-Wheeling, workshops, business meetings and eating. One of our workshop was watching the OSU VS Texas Tech. The lessons were many in teamwork and the lack of. I really wanted to stop watching, but we persevered and finished it. :)
Wednesday, November 12th & Thursday, November 13th: ONE CRAZY NIGHT OF FEAR...Michael had to be gone for a Sales School. I had come into the house to get him, but never noticed anything out of the ordinary. When I came home from dropping him off at the airport, I saw tiny pieces of a leaf. I vacuumed before Home Group not thinking too much about it....until after Home Group was over...and noticed that Michael had left the back door unlocked....so remembering the leaf pieces, I freaked out. Come to find out...due to my fear...I had set the alarm wrong...it went off in the middle of the night...I FREAKED OUT...there are no pictures of this event, but I was scared completely out of my mind...screaming bloody murder....Grandpa and Grandma Whitten finally came over about 1 hour from the time the alarm went off...let me tell you...it took half that long just to get Michael called..yelling into his ear. No one came to help me before that...no alarm company called...no neighbor came over...and yes, my crazy self didn't even think to call 911...because I thought the alarm company would...needless to say...I had Grandma and Grandpa Whitten stay with me that night and the next...PRAISE GOD for them! We did get it all figured out...the alarm got fixed...I became more aware that I need to be more prepared...it was nuts. :)
Friday, November 14th and Saturday, November 15th: Fellowship Church Women's Shopping Retreat. I am so blessed to go to Fellowship Church. The women that attended this retreat were hilarious and fun to be around. I had the extra blessing of riding with Kaye and Jodi. We talked, laughed, cried, prayed, praised and sang. I have some really great photos to share from the trip. I was definitely glad I went on the trip. :) Susan is the reason that I have some pretty awesome hair now...when I get to fix it!
Sunday, November 16th: Bobby finishing the Route 66 MARATHON - YAY for Bobby! It was the hardest thing I've had to do lately....watch someone else get to finish a marathon. Tears came to my eyes as I watched one after another finish. The feelings rushed over me from my first victory in completing a marathon...it's a feeling that hopefully will never go away! When I saw Bobby finished, I remember him telling me he'd never...yes NEVER do a marathon....he wasn't that crazy...well BOBBY...welcome to the crazy world of running. You ran 26.2 miles...now that is amazing...life is so funny...We switched places this year...I got to spectate while he finished. I'll be ready to start running....I talk to the doctor tomorrow! :) PRAY that I get released! :) I have lots of pics from this....posting soon!
Saturday, November 23rd: Tulsa County 4-H Share the Fun - "The Wonderful World of 4-H" - Disney characters are always a fabulous idea! I tried to dress up like Anastatia. I felt very pretty in my green dress! Pictures will be posted soon. Following the talent show, I got to eat a delicious, but quick meal with mny friend Jennifer. My sister, niece and nephew went to the movies to watch Madagascar 2...laughed a lot...loved watching the two young ones mesmerized by the cartoon characters. I absolutely love Zebra...Chris Rock's voice is wonderful! :) They all got to stay with me, since Michael was gone yet again...this time hunting. I was sure glad I didn't have to be by myself!
Wednesday, November 26th & Thursday, November 27th - THANKSGIVING with Michael's sides. We spent the night with mom and Mike at a hotel in Grove. I had a blast. Nan even let me try the inside of the pies before being bakes...now that was perfect. I learned how to play Pitch and a dice game. Thanksgiving night we were with the Whitten's. We played the longest game of chicken foot that I have ever played. Michael and I had bought double 15 dominoes....let's just say almost 5 hours later...we finished the game....one thing great about it....we had homemade biscuits and chocolate gravy! YUMMY
Friday, November 28th: more Thanksgiving - we had the Miller Thanksgiving at Aunt Tracy and Uncle Dave's...I always love going to their house...very relaxing! We had an alternative Christmas with healthier choices on the food. I'm so thankful for this year's Thanksgiving with all three sites full of family, food and fun.
Saturday, November 29th: OSU VS OU, Bedlam 2008 - I won't go into great detail...sorry...it was ot fun watching poor sportsmanship...especially when you see that kind of behavior when someone wins...can't people just be happy they won, instead of trying to tear others down...any ways...I prayed really hard that God would help our guys be the best that they can be...he blessed us...yet I should have been more specific...so our best didn't wear us out at the end of the game! :) I'm glad it's over...I'm ready for the Bowl Game...I'm so proud of our 9-3 season....can't be sad over that kind of finish! :) GO POKES
Sunday, November 30th: Casting Crowns Christmas Concert at BOK - Oh, this was amazing. I got to hang out with my peeps from my Church in Cushing...we had about 50 of us! Michael isn't much of a Christmas Music fan, but he managed to get through it. I was so excited to see Avalon and Michael English...favorites from my past and still today...Casting Crowns was incredible....even though a couple were missing due to having a baby...it happens! :) I missed hanging out with some of my peeps...it was worth it. My mom and dad got to be there. We all went to Spaghetti Warehouse before hand...not my fav to eat at...but I enjoyed the company! :)
Monday, December 1st: Michael and I's 7th Dating Anniversary - time sure does fly by...7 years since I got to go on a date with my lovely husband...wow...we even went to Spaghetti Warehouse in OKC...which is funny, since I had to eat at Spaghetti Warehouse in Tulsa the day before and the day after our Anniversary...too funny! I took the day off to surprise Michael, but he got my plans changed...he picked me up for lunch at Ollie's...YUMMY, then started his to die for chili for supper....which messed up my surprise...I was going to cook a roast with carrots and potatoes...oh well...next time! :) 7th is heaven! :)
Tuesday, December 2nd: Kiwanis Christmas Party - Though I had to go without Michael since he was in Arkansas, I had a really good time. All the couples had several stories that cracked me up. I love being in Kiwanis...there's so much wisdom and knowledge to learn. We had a hoot with the White Elephant! I got my first three gifts stolen....oh yes...I was number 1, so it didn't bother me...especially when I knew I'd be the last to steal back a good present! Again, it was at Spaghetti Warehouse...not as bad as I remember, but not my fav.

As you can read, I have been a little busy. This is just some highlights...lots more took place here and there, but I wanted to do the more important ones. I hope everyone had a blissful Thanksgiving. I am so thankful to have you in my life. May God bless you with many more blessings. XO

Frontier City

2008-11-13T07:00:00.000-08:00

High School Football

2008-11-12T07:00:00.000-08:00

Perkins-Tryon VS Berryhill - Friday, October 24, 2008

Michael and I got to enjoy the game with my grandparents (Cooper's), Uncle Curt and Aunt Janice. It was a very cold night, but I got my hot chocolate...which I absolutely love! Jayson, my younger cuz, is a defensive coach with the Perkins-Tryon team. I am so proud of him. He did an excellent job! It's so refreshing to watch someone love what they do as much as he does....lots of passion for the coaching game. From warmups to prayer time at the end of the game, it was definitely worth seeing.

Sadly it was our first game to see our home team (Berryhill) play this year. It's hard to get into a community when you do not have kids. I think we are making strides though. Our church family helps us along the way. It was funny having to see a lot of our fellow church family members...especially our pastor...why? we were sitting on the opponents side - Perkins-Tryon....sorry, but family conquers the cheering of a home team. PT did win! We will have to make sure to attend another home game where we can root for Berryhill! :) More pics of the evening are posted on my facebook page! Enjoy!

He's such an awesome coach!

4-Wheeling with Family

2008-11-11T07:00:00.000-08:00

It has been a little bit ago, since my last 4-Wheeling experience with my husband. It's been hard not to go out on it, because I was unable to...the whole surgery thing got in the way. On Sunday, October 19, 2008, we went 4-wheeling with my sis, brother-in-law, cousin and his girlfriend. Another blast packed day. October was definitely an overkill of positive fun with friends and family. I was definitely sore after our experience, but it was worth it! Here are just some pics from our experience. I've posted all on my facebook page! Remember to be adventurous and seize the day with family and friends...you may have fun!

OSU Homecoming

2008-11-10T07:00:00.000-08:00

Homecoming Weekend was jam packed with fun! Michael and I had the pleasure of hanging out with my sis and brother-in-law for the weekend. Friday, October 17 we enjoyed the walkaround, plus Homecoming & Hoops! I am always amazed at the pomping technique. There are lots of hours and energy put into these magnificent display decks. I snapped a couple of shots on some of my favorites. I forgot to get names of each group for credit.

My sis and I got these awesome glow in the dark glow sticks from the sweetest elderly lady. She was raising money for missions. I really had a blast hanging out with my sis. It has been sporadic over the years...now we get to see eachother a lot more, which I feel blessed!

The cheerleaders are pretty good. I was flashing back to my days as a cheerleader...for those that have been around me at game time...I still haven't given the cheerleader style up....I have to have a certain radius of free space to root my Cowboys on! It's great for me...maybe not so much for others...I tend to yell from the belly...very load I must say!

They are too cute! Only been married since June 7th!

The band was rocking it that night. We had a good time dancing with traditional moves that the band displays! The drumline is probably might favorite out of all the parts in the band!

Go Oklahoma State Cowboys and Cowgirls. We got to see a preview from both teams. They were just able to start practicing that week from what I heard!

My favorite house deck was the 80's one. I just LOVE MY 80's...perhaps it's when I was younger and things seem less crazy! Go polaroids!

Here we are for the actual game day experience...matching shirts, tattoo stickers and hair....now that's celebrating!

BATHROOM ESCAPE

2008-11-09T07:00:00.000-08:00

Here is the transition of our Master Bathroom. Michael did most the painting, because he rocks the paint brush and roller! I love walking into our bathroom now. It is definitely an escape. You can't help but smile in this relaxing place! We actually got the project done in one day! Praise My mom even came to help with the transition! She's not a fan of blue, but I think deep down she loved it! My father-in-law came over to see the paint....he loved it! I knew he would. God for beautiful paint and eye sight! Enjoy the before and after pics! PS - So far everyone who has gotten to see the masterpiece has thoroughly enjoyed it!

Sandra Tagged Me :)

2008-11-08T09:06:00.001-08:00

Here is my 6th picture from my 6th folder:

I have quite a few folders within MY PICTURES Folder...so I went with the 2008 folder, since I use it the most....then picked the 6th folder (random topic blog pics) and plucked the 6th pic....which is this adorable little guy. He is just too cute.

I'm not sure which forwarded e-mail this came off of, but I'm glad I got it saved. Life can make us exhausted! Whenever we feel like we are yawning too much....it's not because we are bored....we're overloaded....or have completely worn ourselves out. Try to get your 8 hours sleep....but try not to pack your schedule either....life is too short and fragile...we don't need to add to the mix! I hope all is well! I've tagged Aunt Tracy for the 6th folder, 6th picture!

TREATS FOR ALL

2008-10-31T07:00:00.000-07:00

Ever have one of those weeks where everything points to the same place...yet you don't want to be in that place...well this has been one of those weeks, but I'm looking on the positive side and wishing that everyone gets some good treats for this Halloween Day. I promise to post many pictures from the past week...my cousin's coaching game, Frontier City Extravaganza, Trunk or Treat Event and today's Halloween costume! :0)

I think we are never to old to dress up and have some good wholesome fun. I'm excited to share my mixed up cat costume with our new trick or treat participants for tonight. New neighborhood...new faces...more kids...it's an exciting time.

This witch picture really explains my week...I'm still flying just a little out of control with emotions...but I'm still happy! :) I wish everyone a safe collecting of those tasty treats....I will have to control myself...since I've gone a little crazy with candy left over from the Trunk or Treat....dang sweet tooth gets me every time! :)

6 Random Things

2008-10-28T07:00:00.000-07:00

Six Random Things
Aunt Tracy tagged me, and here are the rules:

1. Post the rules on your blog

2. Write 6 random things about yourself

3. Tag 6 people at the end of your post

4. If you are tagged, just do it, and pass the tag along!

Rather simple, so first here are the six random things about me:

1. I'm scared of the dark. Yes, I know...to the girl that used to watch scary movies all the time. I don't know what it is...but I get the chills and all.

2. Believe it or not....there is a moment every now and then that I just don't want to talk!

3. I am a vivid dreamer....sometimes they are too real for me to handle.

4. I love to sing and dance while driving my car...some know this, but others do not. I turn the music up really loud and just it all go....while being a safe and attentive driver! :)

5. I wish I was 5' 9''! Being 5'5'' is not fun when trying to find pants that fit length wise.

6. When I watch t.v shows or movies, I tend to get major lessons about life from each of them. It may seem odd, but I feel like it's one way God communicates with me....and He has lots of humor to help me get through life.

Bobby
Susan
Dave
Amy
Haley
Candice

Grew Up in the 80's

2008-10-20T07:00:00.000-07:00

Grew Up In the 80's if:
1. You've ever ended a sentence with the word SIKE.
2. You can sing the rap to the Fresh Prince of Bel-Air and can do the Carlton
3. You know that 'WOAH' comes from Joey on Blossom
4. If you ever watched 'Fraggle Rock'
5. It was actually worth getting up early on a Saturday to watch cartoons.
6. You wore a ponytail on the side of your head.
7. You got super-excited when it was Oregon Trail day in computer class at school.
8. You made your mom buy one of those clips that would hold your shirt in a knot on the side.
9. You played the ga me 'MA S H'(Mansion, Apartment, Shelter, House)
10. You wore stonewashed Jordache jean jackets and were proud of it.
11. You know the profound meanin g of ' W AX ON , WAX OFF'
12. You wanted to be a Goonie.
13. You ever wore fluorescent clothing. (some of us...head-to-toe)
14. You can remember what Michael Jackson looked like before his nose fell off and his cheeks shifted.
15. You have ever pondered why Smurfette was the only fem ale sm urf .
16. You took lunch boxes to school...and traded Garbage Pailkids in the schoolyard.
17. You remember the CRAZE, then the BANNING of slap bracelets.
18. You still get the urge to say 'NOT' after every sentence.
19. You thought your childhood friends would never leave because you exchanged handmade friendship bracelets.
21. You ever owned a pair of Jelly-Shoes.
22. After you saw Pee-Wee's Big Adventure you kept saying 'I know you are, but what am I?' 23. You remember 'I've fallen and I can't get up'
24. You remember going to the skating rink before there were inline skates.
25. You have ever played with a Skip-It.
26. You remember boom boxes and walking around with one on your shoulder like you were all that.
27. You remember watching both Gremlins movies.
28. You thought D oogie Howser/Sam antha Micelli was hot.
29. You remember Alf, the lil furry brown alien from Melmac.
30. You remember New Kids on the Block when they were cool...and don't even flinch when people refer to them as 'NKOTB'
31. You knew all the characters names and their life stories on 'Saved By The Bell,' The ORIGINAL class.
32. You know all the words to Bon Jovi - SHOT THROUGH THE HEART.
33. You just sang those words to yourself.
34. You still sing 'We are the World'
35. You tight rolled your jeans.
36. You owned a bannana clip.
37. You remember 'Where's the Beef?'
38. You used to (and probably still do) say 'What you talkin' 'bout Willis?'
39. You're still singing shot through the heart in your head, aren't you!

PASS THIS ON TO ALL OF YOUR FRIENDS WHO GREW UP IN THE 80s or Early 90s!!!

4-H in the Philippines

2008-10-16T19:00:00.000-07:00

Yes, there is 4-H in the Philippines...it started back in the 50's believe it or not. I love learning about other countries. I'll be teaching 5 to 6 workshops today. I'll have to report how it went when I return.....actually...Homecoming will happen when I return...so after that...it's amazing how busy one's life can get....PRAISE GOD! :)

Gone to Youth In Action

2008-10-15T19:00:00.000-07:00

Oh yes, it's that time of year where I get to take teenagers to Fin and Feather to gain leadership skills while having fun! I am pumped. As you read this, I am probably already there...I thought I'd auto post! I thought I'd give some love to Fin and Feather! Go to http://www.finandfeatherresort.com/ to learn more about where I am having some fun at an Oklahoma Resort....in Gore, OK! I'm very excited about visiting the new "Soda Steve's"....it's supposed to be delicious! I'm super pumped...and I know our teens are really excited. This year's theme is "Cruisin Through 4-H"! Each County within Northeast District were given a country to teach about....oh yes, I will be teaching a workshop 5 or 6 times on the Philippines. Check back tomorrow...I'm auto posting a short blog with a pic from 4-H in the Philippines! Hope everyone is having a great week. I'll have to reply to everyone after this weekend. Lots of love! keep learning!

OSU....Go Cowboys...number 8 in the nation!

2008-10-13T19:00:00.000-07:00

We are so very proud of our Cowboys! Michael and I have been devoted fans our entire lives! I know that I was born into the Cowboy family on one side! The Cowboys have had their ups and downs...mostly downs, but you can't help but be a fan for the underdogs. Being a Cowboy fan takes a lot of things...I thought I'd jot down a few things to let you know what being a true fan for the OSU Cowboys really is....remember this is my opinion...:)

You are a true Cowboy fan if.....

10. You wear orange!

9. You know how to pray!

8. You stay in the stands even when your boys are way behind and there is no hope!

7. You get frustrated, but keep the love alive!

6. You can sing Ride 'Em Cowboys and our Alma Mater!

5. You bring your keys!

4. You shout out ORANGE POWER as long as you possibly can!

3. You know that push ups are important!

2. You keep your head high even if the boys lose 5 games in a row..or have a winning or losing season.

1. You never give up on our boys....even when it got really bad....yet you kept cheering them on with all your heart....and you wear orange to church the next day...win or lose!

I will admit....there were a few times I thought about giving up on my Alma Mater, but......I came to my senses and hung in there. We've made it to bowl game after bowl game...how awesome is it to think that we could be in the Big 12 Championship.....and yes....the hope of being in a National Championship game....oh start praying...wipe those tears...because this is really happening....I thought to ask someone to pinch me....yet I know our boys have worked hard...and the coaching staff has been building our team....and the help from Boone Pickens can't go unnoticed....let's hope the boys stay healthy....and persevere through the wins....and keep kicking it and making the plays that get us closer to living the full dream.

National 4-H Week - October 5-11

2008-10-12T22:00:00.000-07:00

We had an awesome week of celebrating National 4-H Week! Tuesday, October 7th..we had our Tulsa County 4-H Open House...with over 80 people attending! Thursday, October 9th...I was able to work with one of my co-workers, Rick Clovis in teaching over 130 4th graders about the OSU Stream Trailer. To finish my time off, I helped the Keystone 4-H Club with their Derby Days Concession Stand in Sand Springs, OK! I'm posting pics to display some of the activity...not all! :)

What do the 4 H's stand for....HEAD, HEART, HANDS and HEALTH!

4-H trains youth to be better citizens and leaders for our future! We've been in Oklahoma for 100 years in 2009!