LATTE' BUDDIES!

Groundhog's Day 2012

2012-02-03T14:53:00.001-08:00

Yesterday was one of my favorite whimsical days! Puxatawney Phil saw his shadow so there's six more weeks of winter. But that's okay because today the sun is SHINING bright. Love, love, love it!

I've had the back door open for the dogs to go in and out. It's a chilly 38 so it's not really a good way to save heat but the sunshine comes right in on me as I type on the computer. If I could drag the big white rocking chair out of the garage, I would. I'm ready for a snooze in the sun. (But I'd have to have two sleeping bags wrapped around me to stay warm!)

This morning's activities included a physical therapy appointment (sigh...it's going to be a long journey to get moving again) and a quick trip to Costco. WOW, do they ever have Scooby Snacks on Fridays! Of course, it's the Friday before the Super Bowl so they're hoping people will buy all of their snacks there. I found a walking type of jacket for myself and two cute books for Easton. Then I had a wonderful lunch with my friend Jackie at Old European. I brought home half of my breakfast/lunch. Dishes called my name, as did the laundry downstairs. Tonight is Bunko with girlfriends so a nap is next on the agenda. I love my naps!

Happy rest of your winter wherever you are...spring is coming!

A beautiful five days in Phoenix!

2012-01-17T06:54:00.000-08:00

I have LOVED being in Phoenix this week. Not only for the beautiful warm sunshine while it's been really cold and snowy back in Spokane, but because I've been with two of the greatest friends ever and I completed the Phoenix Rock and Roll Half Marathon.

My finishing time for the race was 4:13. It was REALLY slow for me as I just couldn't push myself past mile 5 and my right leg was being a tad difficult -- I was keeping hydrated and making sure my electrolytes were up, but when I wanted to move, I felt like I was stumbling! I had a guardian angel come alongside me at mile 6 and she stayed with me until the end. She's a coach for MS Rockstars, from Los Angeles, and she was such an encouragement. (MS Rockstars is with the National MS Society and the group I raised funds to help find a cure for MS. There were 60 of us for the first time event ever for the NMSS and I'm proud to be a ROCKSTAR!)

This is the coolest thing. Bill, a dear friend from FL, pointed out the significance of 4:13! Philippians 4:13 says "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me!" I was wow'ed when he pointed it out to me A great reminder!

Coffee, friends, sunshine and finishing a race....it's been a wonderful time and I'm energized to go home and start training for the Windermere Marathon in May! I'm betting that part of my winter and spring training will begin soon by shoveling snow. Or maybe, I'll just make a snowangel and have a little bit of fun first!

sweet pictures

2011-12-12T17:34:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday Boy!

Easton October 2011

Easton and Oma in December

Brad, Jennifer and Easton October 2011

Ian, Brad, Easton and Jennifer Dec 2011

It's official!

2011-10-15T10:55:00.000-07:00

I'm officially a librarian for Spokane Public Schools! I was hired yesterday, signed all of my papers and I'll be ready to go on Monday. I'm only part time but it gives me time to still sub in the classrooms & take time off to be with Easton on Fridays.

L-O-V-E my school and the staff and the students! It's going to be a fantastic year.

This weekend I'm in Yakima with Easton so stay tuned for some more cute pictures. Ian and Brad went to Seattle to watch the Sounders and Jen is working today. So Easton and I are hanging out together. Right now he's working on a nap and I'm finally updating my blog.

Happy Fall weekend!

October 10 on 10

2011-10-10T18:32:00.000-07:00

Hello! I had the sweetest little boy at my house this weekend so I'm going to share pictures of him for my 10 on 10. Only one photo was taken today, but that's ok! Enjoy~

Worth his weight in gold -- all 21 pounds

Easton and his daddy

Pumpkin Patch kid

Hello, Mr. Sheep!

Baa, Baa, Black Sheep

A few of Easton's friends

Checking out the pumpkin

Sleepy boy in the pumpkin patch with Oma

Just listening

Today's lunch time with Oma before Easton went home

30 Days Hath September!

2011-09-29T20:41:00.000-07:00

Can you believe it's the end of September? Here in Spokane we are enjoying an Indian summer and I LOVE the warm afternoons & then being able to snuggle under a comforter at night when it drops down into the 40's.

I always have to share this poem for the last day of September. Enjoy the day!

Thirty days hath September,
April, June and November;
February has twenty eight alone
All the rest have thirty-one
Except in Leap Year, that's the time
When February's Days are twenty-nine

Spiced Slow Cooker Applesauce

2011-09-25T16:36:00.000-07:00

Today was a good day for creating something yummy in the crockpot. I'd gotten a bunch of apples from the Serve Spokane Food Pantry (David and I work there twice a month.) so I wanted to make something with them. This recipe was super easy. If you could only smell my kitchen at the moment -- delicious!

Spiced Slow Cooker Applesauce (allrecipes.com)

Ingredients

8 apples - peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
1/2 cup water
3/4 cup packed brown sugar
1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice

Directions

Combine the apples and water in a slow cooker; cook on Low for 6 to 8 hours. Stir in the brown sugar and pumpkin pie spice; continue cooking another 30 minutes.

Type 1 Diabetes and Ian

2011-09-24T19:48:00.001-07:00

This week's lesson: Type 1 Diabetes and Ian

Location: Spokane's Sacred Heart Hospital and home

This Tuesday found Ian at Sacred Heart's Emergency Room with a very high blood sugar level of 600. From there, he spent 2 days on the 7th floor, getting excellent treatment (and no sleep!) and learning how to deal with insulin injections and food choices. We were glad when he got to come home and we all had a good night's sleep!

I'm proud to say that he is adjusting well, even looking up recipes that look tempting to try. We're all eating healthier and I think it's going to be an even healthier lifestyle change for us.

Thanks for continuing to pray for him and for your support of our family!

Happy first day of school!

2011-09-07T17:30:00.001-07:00

It'd become a tradition in our house to do a "first day of school" photo. Not having kids in school for awhile, we'd gotten out of practice.

Not anymore! Today was OUR first day of school. I'm a part time librarian for the Spokane Schools and David is doing a teaching practicum in Orchard Prairie School District. (He'll be doing his student teaching in February and graduating from Whitworth Univ in May.)

A very fun day of meeting kids today and learning what our jobs are all about. I can't recall the last time I read the same story three or four times. I had seven classes with at least 22 in each class, ranging from Kindergarten to 3rd grade. I have a bunch of names and faces to learn, but how exciting to share my love of reading and learning with all of them.

David tagged-team taught with his master teacher. He even brought science notebooks home to make teacher comments for the kids. Poor guy, he has college class tonight -- it's his PE methods class and boy, do they learn to play all of the games the kids learn. (I keep telling him that he's an ADULT and not to break anything! One guy broke his foot last week. Just sayin'....)

I have five or six classes tomorrow and then I'm off to Goldendale to be with Jen, Brad and Easton for the weekend. I'll be checking on current children's literature ideas, though. What's your favorite kid's book?

What's for Dinner?

2011-08-29T17:48:00.000-07:00

A really quick no recipe version of Beef Stroganoff!

hamburger, chopped onion, can of cream of mushroom soup, Greek yogurt, elbow macaroni, pepper

Brown the hamburger with the onion and drain; add soup, yogurt and sprinkle of pepper; stir well and thoroughly warm up mixture; add cooked pasta. Stir again and serve.

No complaints from the peanut gallery here tonight. Ian came back for two helpings!

A Sweet Boy and His Puppy

2011-08-29T08:38:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was Easton's last day at his first house. I wanted to take a picture of him in his bedroom and Baylee the Beagle decided she needed to be a part of the picture, too. L-O-V-E this picture of them!

Phase 1 of Jen and Brad's move is almost complete. We worked hard Saturday and Sunday to get things boxed up & moved into storage. Their house in Yakima should close on the 7th of September and then we'll do Phase 2 and 3. (Phase 2 is prepping the house to move in...sanding floors, etc. Phase 3 moving boxes again into the house! Strength training at its finest.)

This morning I'm enjoying the last vacation Monday morning (the Beagle Boys and Manchas are barking up a storm!) with a cup of coffee and some cool temperatures. I need to plan my menu for the month, make a shopping list and check out sales. Watering the garden, picking the ripe tomatoes and the oops, grew too big zucchini. Just kinda puttering and then it's off to school to see what's taking place at the library. Excited to get started.

Happy Monday!

It's a fun sub start job!

2011-08-27T13:59:00.000-07:00

Yippee! I had a phone call from the sub desk today. I'm going to sub start as a part time librarian for the first three weeks of school. The cool thing is I'll be back at Bemiss, where I taught first grade last year. That means I get to see all of my kiddos!

We're spending the rest of the weekend with this cutie and his parents. They're packing up their duplex and moving to Yakima as soon as their house closes. What a long process this has been.

The light at the end of the tunnel is getting brighter & Jen starts teaching @ West Valley HIgh School in Yakima and I'll be at Bemiss in Spokane. Let the school year begin! (But let us enjoy the nice summer days for a lot longer!)

Advice for Myself

2011-08-26T15:19:00.000-07:00

I'll offer this to all of my friends, too, for those tough times.....but for now, I'm claiming it as my own advice.

"If I only had a brain....."

2011-08-26T11:43:00.000-07:00

This morning's rush out the door was to get to the neurologist for a quarterly checkup for MS. I can almost do all of the tests by myself; it's become that routine in checking for anything new or different. I'm not doing an MRI this year due to there not being any change in the last year. Pretty stable, which is great.

I found a yard sale on my way home from the dr's office. I only had three dollars so I was hoping for some sweet little deals. Yep, I found them. A pretty blue tall metal pitcher for my outside table. Perks up that little spot quite nicely. Two rustic reindeer tea light holders...cute! And a small birdhouse that fits in with my other two birdhouses on the piano. I look at my finds and they make me smile so three dollars well spent.

Checking out a new Pho place in town. It's a Chinese place that went out of business and now they're offering $5 Pho. Carrie (from Whitworth) and I are going to try it out before she heads to work. We'll let you know how it is!

Happy Friday!

Facebook

2011-08-25T21:05:00.002-07:00

Tonight I'm saying goodbye to Facebook for at least until Christmas. The pain I've felt the last week has been too much and it's better to be off of FB rather than feeling sorry for myself because I don't have a lake place, a boat, a teaching job, no exotic vacation, big bucks in the bank to play with, etc. I'm going to focus on what's important and healthy for me. I miss being a part of people's real lives & being invited to share in the activities of the summer. It gets pretty lonely.

Keep in touch with me through my blog, email or phone messages. I'll post pictures and recipes here.

Kerri

A Week @ Lake Kachees (nestled in the Cascades of WA)

2011-08-16T12:11:00.000-07:00

It was finally our turn for vacation. David was done with school for three weeks and we'd "reserved" the Gilbert's cabin for a week. Jen, Brad and Easton were able to join us for three days and our friends Jim and Jackie scooted over from Spokane for a night, too. Fun and quiet week. Lots of berry picking, walks, card games, sunshine, book reading and naps.

Kerri, David and Easton

A sweet baby boy with his Oma

Easton and his daddy at Gale Creek

Easton (8 months) on the stump

The end of July

2011-07-31T15:47:00.001-07:00

Wow, this month zipped past. I've spent the last few days watering the garden area and the berry patch A LOT. We've been getting tomatoes, cucumbers, zucchini and the last strawberries. David and I picked 3 gallons of raspberries at Greenbluff. I am making raspberry sorbet and jam tomorrow or Tuesday. It's H-O-T so I'm trying hard to pace myself. Last week was a constant but fun on the go schedule -- dentist, lunch with Charlotte, a day at camp with Melissa, a dr appt, tea with Celia and a few farmers' markets. I LOVE fresh vegetables and fruits & boy is it a challenge to make sure they get eaten right away. We can only eat so many meals. Last night dinner was shrimp and clams that I'd purchased from Spokane Public Market...David bbq'ed them....and then the second round of dinner was crunchy potato salad. SOOOO good! Tonight it's corn on the cob (Spokane Farmer's Market) and pork tenderloin...both on the bbq.

David and Ian are going to the Spokane Indians game tonight so I'm going to brave the temps and turn on the oven to make a peach tart! Peaches are from Wapato and once Jen & Brad move to Yakima, we're going to be visiting Wapato for peaches to can. Another yum!

Moving Smart: "M" IS FOR MONKEYBARS: Getting Ready for Writing

2011-07-11T21:56:00.000-07:00

Moving Smart: "M" IS FOR MONKEYBARS: Getting Ready for Writing

July already.....

2011-07-09T21:39:00.000-07:00

Hi, everyone! We are half way through summer vacation. Thankfully. summer and the sun showed up. The last full day of school we had indoor recess due to rain!

Here's pictures of our sweet little Easton. He's 7 months already.

What does this summer hold for you? I'm looking for a teaching job, working in my yard and playing with Easton. Not a lot of traveling except a quick trip to visit Lisa in TX and then a cabin vacation on Snoq Pass in August. It's the same cabin we honeymooned at 27 years ago so it'll be great to go back after being away from it for a few years. I can't wait, especially since Easton (and his parents) gets to go with us!

One of my recipes got chosen for the Gooseberry Patch cookbook "Fresh from the Farmstand." I love their cookbooks and having my recipe "Sensational Springtime Salad" in their upcoming book will be wonderful. It's my yummy recipe for asparagus, smoked turkey breast, pineapple and strawberries. Definitely a springtime salad since we love the asparagus to be tender and thin for the recipe. If you get a chance to use any of their cookbooks, you won't be disappointed. I've been cruising through "Comfort Foods" and thinking about making a few things from it.

Tonight's dinner was Spinach Enchiladas, a recipe from a dear friend in Germany. I had lots of chopped spinach to use up so I made pepperjack cheese enchiladas and then spread the spinach cream sauce on top. Meatless and delicious! It makes a big pan so we'll be eating it for a day or two. I usually like to make this recipe for company but when the ingredients are screaming "use me!", you make the meal.

(I made sausage and spinach manicotti last night and it's in the freezer for another day!)

What's been happening in your life?

Weekend of Memories

2011-04-18T07:00:00.001-07:00

Good morning!

It was the Susan Komen Race for the Cure event yesterday. A group of us walked in memory of our sweet friend K'Anne.

And Easton was with us this weekend, too. He's 5 months today! I was getting ready for the race in this picture and Easton wouldn't smile for anything. He's got an aversion to the camera because he'll smile right after you put it away. Love this little guy and can't wait to see him next weekend for Easter.

HAPPY GROUNDHOG'S DAY!

2011-02-02T07:34:00.001-08:00

Yipppee! Puxatawney Phil didn't see his shadow today so it will be an early spring. This is one of my favorite whimsical types of days to celebrate. I think I'll pick up some daffodils for my office at school. Cheery and springlike, even it's only 14 degrees in Spokane this morning.

Glad you're here!

2011-01-28T23:31:00.000-08:00

I've been busy with that sweet little Easton boy, plus being a Math Intervention teacher at Lidgerwood Elementary. I see about 5o kids a day, rather than having my own class. It keeps me hopping!

1st graders LOVE to read!

2010-12-10T21:59:00.001-08:00

I went to Value Village last night and picked up books for my first graders. At 69 cents a book (buy 4 get 1 free), it was a simple decision to buy gently used books that I knew the kids would love. Check out their sweet faces!

Happy Friday -- December 10th!

2010-12-10T06:44:00.000-08:00

Good morning! It's December 10th and just one more week of school. I'm celebrating with my first graders today by giving out books that I purchased at the thrift store. Such great books for 69 cents each. They will be thrilled to take them home.

Easton turned 3 weeks old. He's such a sweet spirited little guy. I can't wait to spend more time with him when school is out for Christmas break.

Easton Dean Bellamy

2010-11-28T16:02:00.000-08:00

The sweetest little boy was born on November 18, 2010. Easton Dean Bellamy weighed in at 6 lbs 10 oz and was 20 inches long. We are 100% totally in love with him! I am already enjoying being a grandma. Congratulations, Brad and Jen.

Overdue update!

2010-10-03T10:45:00.000-07:00

Good morning! It's a definite fall morning here in Spokane. After enjoying a beautiful Indian summer, today's weather is rather cooler and damp. But that hasn't stopped us from planting tulip and daffodil bulbs, transplanting lilac bushes and planting two new shade trees!

I am teaching in a wonderful first grade classroom this year. It's a very sweet change from teaching 6th grade. (I know how to do 1st grade math! Smile...) Although it's not a permanent position, I'm at Bemiss Elementary (Spokane Public Schools) until Christmas break and feel blessed to be a part of this school. I've so connected with my kiddos -- 18 girls, 7 boys -- and they've stolen my heart. My favorite quote from one of the kids is "Mrs. York, you're one lucky lady to be able to use an electric pencil sharpener!"

Other news from the homefront:

Jen says there's no room at the inn for Baby Easton and she's getting kicked in the ribs quite often. We're excited to meet Easton sometime next month! She and Brad have been busy with Goldendale's football team, getting everything prepared for Easton's arrival and enjoying married life, too!

David continues to work for Pennacle Investigations and going to Whitworth @ night. He's loving the same classes I took at Whitworth; some of the professors are the same so he's following in my footsteps. David and I celebrated our 26th wedding anniversary over Labor Day weekend by being tourists in Seattle -- Pike Place Market, Alki Beach and Lighthouse, Seattle Mariners game, IKEA. A very fun and relaxing weekend!

Ian is looking for work (if you know of anything, let us know!) and he's helping out in my classroom as a volunteer.

The four legged kids keep us laughing with their antics. Never a dull moment. We did lose one of our cats -- Gretel -- so we're trying to decide if we'd like another friend for Hans. Thinking it might be nice to have an already spayed/neutered cat to add to the family. We'll see!

Amazing Recipe Site

2010-07-19T20:09:00.001-07:00

I have NOT been disappointed by any of the recipes on this site. You will LOVE all of the recipes Mel shares http://www.melskitchencafe.com/

My absolute favorite is the Lemon Sugar Topping Blue Berry muffins!

You can also find Mel's Kitchen Cafe by clicking on the button "My Kitchen Cafe" on the left side of my blog. ENJOY!!

A Few Weeks in Paradise

2010-07-19T20:00:00.000-07:00

I left Spokane on July 1st and returned July 15th. Between those two days, I had a lot of miles to cover. From Spokane to Phoenix to all parts of Florida and then a return trip to Spokane via Phoenix, it was an adventure filled two weeks! My favorite two phrases were "it's 5 o'clock somewhere" and "Cheeseburger in Paradise." My cousin Gigi and I devoured two cheeseburgers in one day in Key West, the last one being the best at Jimmy Buffet's Margaritaville! An amazing two weeks of travel, laughter, sunshine, beaches and HOT temps.

Pictures coming! I was home only one night before heading to Goldendale to help out Jen and Brad with the Mexican Fiesta Golf Tournament. It was definitely Margaritaville in Goldendale -- we served lots of margaritas to the golfers. Fun weekend and I'm glad I'm back in Spokane to relax before the home schedule gets crazy again. I've got some job searching to do so I can hopefully have my own classroom this fall.

PS Baby Bellamy is pretty cute on the ultrasound -- it's a boy! Easton Dean Bellamy is due mid November. I'm having fun thrift store shopping for him.

A bit of this and that!

2010-06-27T21:39:00.000-07:00

Hi, everyone! Since the last posting, much has happened. I'm going to just do bullet statements to make it short and sweet & then I'll fill in details later.

Jen's bridal shower was wonderful.
The wedding on May 30!!! Beautiful, beautiful, beautiful. (The official date on the marriage license is December 17, 2009 -- they did their wedding European style. They met with the Justice of the Peace in December and had the wedding celebration with family and friends on May 30, 2010.)

I finished teaching on June 17th with my subbing for Mead, Medical Lake and Spokane School Districts. It was a great year of experience for me and I eagerly await news to know if I've been selected for any of the jobs I've applied for in Spokane.
No job for this summer so I am off playing. I leave on the 1st for Mesa, AZ to spend time with my longtime girlfriend Wendy. Then on the 8th, I fly to Ft. Lauderdale to spend time with my cousin Gigi. I know...it's going to be H-O-T but I plan on keeping cool the entire time or be in the water. I can't wait to fly out of Spokane and get away for a few weeks.
Lots of other little things happening this summer so I'll be back and forth out of the house in Spokane until mid August.
Jennifer and I have spent this past week thrift store and yard sale shopping. Baby Bellamy is due November 19th and I'm sooooooooooo excited about being a grandma. I can't help looking at all of the cute baby items that are for sale. Jen and Brad hopefully get to find out the sex of the baby on July 1st. I get to be there for that special moment, too! (ohh, the fun danger of knowing if it's a girl or a boy....more shopping potential for me!)
And that's it from the peanut gallery for tonight. Stay tuned for more details and pictures.

What's new in your little part of the world? I want to hear!

The end of my long term guest teaching position....

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

My long term teaching job is coming to a close. It's caused a lot of different emotions these past few days, mostly one of happy sad because I realize how much I grew to love these 6th grade students and how much I tried to give my very best to their education. I move on next Thursday, back to Michael Anderson Elementary on Fairchild AFB, to teach 2nd grade for two days and then back to Spokane Schools to teach Kindergarten and 2nd grade. It'll be quite a change for me. Still looking for that full time position, whether it be in Spokane or somewhere else in WA State.

Tomorrow is Jen's bridal shower in Goldendale. I called her today to ask her what she wanted for a gift. Guess I'm not very creative on giving my daughter a gift from the mother of the bride. However, she'll be happy when they make coffee each morning. She told me they want a tent, which is funny because that's what my mom and stepdad gave David and me for our wedding present. Hmmm, perhaps we'll have to be on the lookout for a great tent to go with the portable dishwasher we're purchasing them for their wedding present. Talk about practical, huh?

Time to close up the computer for the night. I really don't like Friday nights because it's a very quiet time and I'd rather be around people, laughing and visiting. Tonight, though, I'm okay with it. It's been a very long 4 day week and I'm going to head to bed, read a little bit and be ready to leave Spokane at 6 AM. I'm going to enjoy my time as Mother of the Bride!

Learning to Trust Myself

2010-04-03T09:12:00.000-07:00

Happy Easter Weekend!

I was looking through "More", a magazine for those of us over 40. Sometimes there's some pretty amazing stuff in here, other times I just laugh at it.

This morning I found an article entitled "Learning to Trust Myself" and my curiousity was peaked. I seem to always doubt myself and I'd love to learn the secret of being ok to trust myself. As I started reading the article, the author describes her pursuit of finding out what was wrong with her.....imagine my amazement to read that she has MS and she's 45 just like me.

It's been 9 years of my diagnosis of MS. Thanks to the wisdom of my drs and continued great care these last nine years, I'm doing well. I've worked hard to be informed and make sure I have control of my medical life. Learning and looking out for yourself is important because you're the only one who really matters when it comes to your own health!

Read more.... http://www.more.com/2024/13465-trouble-path-to-an-ms

Sunny Saturday morning!

2010-03-06T10:25:00.000-08:00

It's a beautiful day here in Spokaloo. I started out the morning by going to the gym and then to the Petite Chat bakery where I picked up some a-m-a-z-i-n-g chocolate croissants and two loaves of bread. From there, it was home to get a cup of coffee, check email and correct more 6th grade papers. I'm hoping that this project will be done soon so I can go outside and enjoy. It's only supposed to be 55 but just the feel of the sunshine is amazing!

Laughter, Joy and His Love

2010-02-28T21:19:00.000-08:00

Tonight David and I went to see comedian Ken Davis. What a hoot! We laughed so much. Ken shared one line with us that really made me stop and think. "Joy under the influence of His love." Yikes!

I found this quote "Gratitude helps you to grow and expand; gratitude brings joy and laughter into your life and into the lives of all those around you." Eileen Caddy

Gratitude, joy, laughter and His love.... ahhhhhh, what a great mixture and I'm going to put them into plan tomorrow as I go to work with the 6th graders. It's gooing to be a great day!

Mother of the Bride dress

2010-02-20T17:21:00.000-08:00

I did it...I purchased my "Mother of the Bride" dress today! I'd tried on this dress when we were in Renton over New Year's weekend and fell in love with it. I wasn't quite sure if it was THE dress since it's actually a bridesmaid dress, but the mom dress selections were definitely not my style. So, I waited and then went today to look at some dresses here in Spokane. The one dress was at the shop to try on and I'd found another one by the same designer on the website to look at. Of course, that one wasn't available. I managed to get the salesperson to let me try the bridesmaid dress on (I think I confused her because she kept asking, "you're the mom? not a bridesmaid?" Apparently moms aren't supposed to wear these dresses and I was breaking protocol? I'm not quite sure....but I tried it on anyways.)

Jen had measured me when we were at the store in Renton so I knew already what size I needed. (Her brief job as a Bridal Consultant paid off!) But I had today's consultant (who kept calling me HON) measure me again....I kinda liked the measurements; my weight loss and hard work has paid off! I couldn't decide if I wanted Victorian Lilac or Black for the main color so when I realized that I'd need a size 10, I knew that the dress I'd tried on was it. The dress was mine....off the rack, in the perfect size. No waiting, no alterations needed (unless I want it shortened to tea length), mission accomplished!

99 days to go to the wedding ....and just shoes & accessories to still buy. No problem, right?

Mid week check in

2010-02-17T18:09:00.000-08:00

I'm halfway through my 7th week of teaching! Boy, is it always a learning experience for me. I was subbed out today for a grade level assessment think tank meeting. I am definitely ready to apply what I learned to my teaching and making it intentional to benefit my students. Seeing reading and math scores made me really sit up and notice where the kids are in their learning. The kids say that I already push them to succeed....they're going to see a little bit more of it, but they will show their excellence in learning as we go through this together.

Here's a picture I just found of the Beagle Boys and me. My half sister Mattie took it last spring. Enjoy~

Needing some color!

2010-02-06T14:33:00.000-08:00

I saw this title on another blog and knew it was true of me, also. We've been blessed with not a lot of snow but I need color after so many gray and gloomy days! Here's what I'd like:

sunshine!!

yummy strawberries

tulips galore (Tulipfestival.com)

daffodils

What brightens your little corner of the world?

Gratitude Friday

2010-02-05T07:08:00.000-08:00

Happy Friday! Here's my list for the week....

1. sunshine on the wintery days! It felt so good yesterday to be outside with the sunshine. We've had a mild winter and even though the groundhog saw his shadow this week, I'm okay with 6 more weeks of winter if it's like this!

2. bagels and cream cheese! My favorite breakfast food at the moment. Soft, fresh bagels that are toasted and spread with strawberry or raspberry cream cheese. Yum!

3. Kleenex! I have a cold and it's causing all sorts of havoc. So, the box of Kleenex is my friend this week. I'm wondering how I'm gong to give the spelling test this morning so that the kids can understand me!

4. my 6th grade teaching team! I have the BEST teaching team to work with. They have taught me lots and I'm glad to have them by my side each day. It's been a tough 5 weeks, but I'm learning day by day. (and we've all decided that we definitely believe in prayer in the public schools...I don't think we'd make it each day if there weren't praying teachers and people who pray for us, too!)

5. my 6th grade classroom! I probably would choose a different grade level if I could, but these students have taught me a lot about grace, perservence, the art of counting to 50 or higher to keep from getting upset and how to laugh at myself (because if I don't, they will!) Even though it's been a tough 5 weeks, it's also been a joyful 5 weeks. I'm looking forward to the next 7 weeks with the kids.

I'm off to Starbucks to get a venti vanilla latte before heading to school today. I'd love for you to join me for a coffee!! But if you can't, have a great Friday and let me know what you're grateful for today.

Lessons Being Learned....

2010-01-24T21:33:00.000-08:00

The past three weeks that I've been in the 6th grade, I've been learning a lot of lessons, some good and some bad. The last two nights I've read a few tips for helping me become a better teacher. Read on....

Taken from 2 Sisters' Daily Cafe Tip of the Week : "I Am Still Really Smart!"

Don't you savor those moments when you see a former student... How delighted I was to hear those words from Maleesha - "I am 6, and I am still really smart!" You are the one who has the power to tell your own Maleesha the truth -- she (or he) is really smart, and will only get smarter if shejust believes it. I look down the lists of standards, skills, and minutia we're expected to teach every day. It takes a Maleesha to pull me away from the papers I'm delivering to the office and back to the most important work you and I do -- we help students believe in themselves, and show them in tangible ways every day how much they are learning, and how smart they are. Who is your Maleesha this year? Have you told her how smart she is today? Have you helped him take pride this week in a new skill mastered?

From Chicken Soup for The Soul "A Wrinkled Piece of Paper"

As teachers, we strive year after year to help our students feel successful. We do the best we can to find ways to make them achieve their goals and grow as individuals...David knew that someone thought he could learn and that someone had listened to him.

Wowie, here I go into my 4th week of teaching at Ridgeview. The kids have really been challenging me with their behavior so tomorrow I will go in with these thoughts and be prepared to listen to my students and tell them how smart they are!

Sunday night....

2010-01-17T22:49:00.000-08:00

...and I get to sleep in for two more days! I have lots to get done before Wednesday's really important day at school. I absolutely love teaching 6th grade, just a tad bit challenging to learn everything and keep it all together. I found this saying tonight as I was cleaning up my office...it's the feeling right now.

"When you reach the end of your rope, tie a knot in it and hang on!" Thomas Jefferson

All you need is love....I want to leave a legacy!

2010-01-12T21:06:00.000-08:00

Remember the Beatles' song "All you need is love"? That's what I think each day when I go into my 6th grade classroom. I love these kids -- some of them come from tough backgrounds, some have a blank looking stare all day long -- and I show them love in so many different ways. I don't even think they're aware of it. But I do know that I am making a difference in their lives each day!

This week has been easier than last week. Although I think I keep adding more work to the pile of "To do" as I learn more and more about the requirements of a sixth grade teacher (today I taught about common sense and manners!) I'm beginning to see why full time teachers get weary. However, I choose to put in the long hours because I want to be prepared and organized. The kids reap the benefits, too!

I'm a pretty simple teacher -- I expect the best from them! I love the song "In the Blink of An Eye" by Mercy Me. The one line "if I give the best of me, that becomes my legacy" has become my motto and I'm sharing it with the kids. I won't be in their classroom but for a small chunk of their 6th grade educational career. And as Nicole Nordman says it so nicely "I want to leave a legacy How will they remember me? Did I choose to love? Did I point to You enough?"

I hope the kids see Jesus in me as I'm with them these next few weeks. If you think of us, be praying! After lunch is the hardest time....I don't know what happens but they come back different kids after lunch and teaching becomes difficult! I am so thankful for the hot cup of coffee right out of the coffee pot -- it keeps me going.

What a wonderful Monday!

2010-01-04T19:57:00.000-08:00

Today was the first day of my long term subbing job at Ridgeview! I had a wonderful day and hoping the students did, too. This class is known for its noisiness, etc. so today they were ecstatic to get compliments from other staff members and the principal on how quiet they were in the halls. Of course, a little bribing on my part has never hurt (5 gems in the jar for quiet hall, 5 more gems if they get a compliment) The gem jar has a long way to go to get filled up, but they earned lots today! I think it was difficult for them to be without their regular teacher, coming back from a 2 week vacation and getting settled into a new routine.

I floundered a little bit, had the biggest butterflies this morning, got flustered a few times. But all in all, I LOVE being part of this classroom and the Ridgeview community. The verse from Esther about "for such a time as this, you have been created" has come to mind lately. I feel very blessed and humbled to be in this 6th grade classroom. I'm learning a lot from the kids! (in fact, I need to go figure out the answers to a 9 grid math paper so I know the answers!!)

Merry Christmas!

2009-12-24T15:18:00.000-08:00

David and I wish you a wonderful Christmas celebration!

and so do the Beagles...

Note to Self....

2009-12-20T07:51:00.000-08:00

I'm not lost...

2009-12-19T17:30:00.000-08:00

....just super busy! I've been subbing a lot for Spokane Public Schools and doing different activities, including one very tough English class at Whitworth! On Thursday, I received a call from my former principal (where I was the secretary before getting my teaching degree) and asked if I'd be a long term sub in 6th grade!! Of course, I said, "YES!!!" I began yesterday, shadowing the teacher and then I really start when we get back from Christmas Break. The assignment is at least six weeks!

Gratitude Friday

2009-11-27T18:28:00.001-08:00

Hi, everyone! I almost forgot what day it is. Grab a big mug and you can either have peppermint hot chocolate or Starbucks Christmas Blend. Here's the list, which is going to be quick because we have friends coming to visit in a half hour.

1. Jen (my daughter) and Brad! Their wedding date is May 30, 2010.

2. Ian's talent in photography! Ian took Jen and Brad's engagement picture today (not the one on this page) and they turned out fabulous.
3. Thanksgiving Dinner! Wow, it was a lot of food and delicious. I need to learn how to make stuffing, though! Sad, I know, but I just can't get the hang of making it and then stuffin' the bird. But I loved the pumpkin pie and cranberry topped cheesecake, plus leftovers today.

4. a day to stay home! I didn't go anywhere today except to the bakery. No shopping for me. It was really nice to be in my bed at 4 AM rather than being out with the crowds.

5. friends and family! What would I do without you, through good times and bad? Thanks for hanging around and loving me.

What are you thankful for today? Happy rest of your holiday weekend! Be sure to visit Home Sanctuary for more Company Girl Coffee fun.

Happy Thanksgiving (and a recipe!)

2009-11-26T10:58:00.000-08:00

This morning I'm thankful for a houseful of people and animals. No matter that my little house is bursting at the seams, I am blessed to have a roof over my head, a place to place my head each night, and more than enough food on my shelves. As I start my Thanksgiving festivities (turkey has just gone in the oven), I thought I'd share my eggnog french toast recipe. It was so yummy and something new for our family! Enjoy~

Taken from AllRecipes.com

Eggnog French Toast

2 eggs, beaten slightly
1 1/2 cups eggnog
1 1/2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
12 slices French bread

Directions:

Whisk the eggs. eggnog, cinnamon, and pumpkin pie spice together in a mixing bowl until well blended. Pour the mixture into a shallow dish. Preheat an electric skillet to 300 degrees F (150 degrees C). Lightly grease the skillet. Dip one slice of bread at a time into the eggnog mixture, being sure to coat each side of the bread thoroughly. Place the prepared bread slices into the preheated skillet, and cook, turning once, until golden brown on each side. Place cooked slices on a serving plate and cover with foil to keep warm until all French toast is cooked. Serve immediately. (I added a tablespoon of white sugar and a teaspoon of vanilla to my eggnog mixture; the cinnamon is the correct amount! The key is to cook the french toast over medium heat or it browns too quickly.)

Ladies and Gentlemen, start your ovens!

2009-11-24T17:05:00.000-08:00

As I was preparing the cutest little chocolate chip pumpkin pies, David realized that he needed to bake the topping for his cranberry cheesecake. The two items are sharing 20 minutes in the oven. One of the pies is going to have to make a sacrific for quality control and then they're being tucked away for later consumption. I'll share a picture of David's cheesecake with you when it's all complete. It's so pretty! ps I just peeked, the pies are looking scrumpious.

Random Dozen

2009-11-24T13:09:00.000-08:00

Random Dozen ~ Thanksgiving Edition!

1. Are you sticking to traditional Thanksgiving foods this year, or are you being culinarily adventurous? Traditional, with a few new things thrown in! I have a soon to be son-in-law to impress! Ha, he told me he eats anything except pumpkin. Brad says it's is a vegetable and doesn’t belong in desserts. We’ll have two desserts this year!

2. Tell me something concrete that you're thankful for. (Something you can literally touch, see, etc., not a concept like "hope.") a paycheck! My husband is out of work and I have been subbing lots. So, when that paycheck comes in the mail next Monday, I’ll be extremely thankful for provisions during this time.

3. You knew the flip side was coming: Share about something intangible that you're thankful for. The gift of laughter!

4. Share one vivid Thanksgiving memory. It doesn't have to be deep or meaningful, just something that remains etched in your memory. Two Thanksgivings come to mind. #1 is a month before David proposed to me, back in 1983. Power was off and we watched football by battery with 32 extended family members there, too. The turkey was cooked over the wood stove, the mashed potatoes done in the camper. He wasn’t scared off! #2 is a sad memory. My grandma had passed away the week before Thanksgiving of 1993. Of course, the power was out the night before the funeral and we ate by lantern light at my mom’s house the night before the funeral, I think. (memory is sketchy!) The Thanksgiving meal was at my aunt and uncle’s house with many people there because Grandma’s funeral had been the day before. There was also snow!

5. What is one thing that you know beyond a shadow of a doubt is going to happen this Thanksgiving because it always does, year after year? The kids will search (and fight!) for the wishbone.

6. Do your pets get any left-overs? They’ll try, but no leftovers for them.

7. Does your family pray before the big meal? David usually has a spontaneous prayer before our meal.

8. Will you be watching football in the afternoon? If not, what will you be doing? Football for the guys; the girls will be looking at the ads and making a strategic shopping plan for the next day. We’re also working on wedding plans this weekend!

9. There are two distinct camps of people on this issue: How do you feel about oysters in the dressing/stuffing? Bleck! Is this an East Coast question? Never heard of oysters in dressing.

10. Do you consider yourself informed about the first Thanksgiving? Yes. The original one and some other “firsts”, such as refugees who are coming to America for their first time. An excellent kids’ book to give you perspective: How Many Days till Thanksgiving, by Eve Bunting.

11. Which variety of pie will you be enjoying? Pumpkin, a cranberry topped cheesecake

12. Do you feel for the turkey??He should have campaigned more for people to “eat beef.”

For more random dozen answers, skip over over 2nd cup of Coffee's blog. Happy Thanksgiving!

"Follow Me...no procrastination, no backward looks"

2009-11-22T20:57:00.000-08:00

Tonight at church Dave, our pastor, spoke on this portion of scripture. I was listening!

From The Message Luke 9:57-62 On the road someone asked if he could go along. "I'll go with you, wherever," he said. Jesus was curt: "Are you ready to rough it? We're not staying in the best inns, you know." Jesus said to another, "Follow me." He said, "Certainly, but first excuse me for a couple of days, please. I have to make arrangements for my father's funeral." Jesus refused. "First things first. Your business is life, not death. And life is urgent: Announce God's kingdom!" Then another said, "I'm ready to follow you, Master, but first excuse me while I get things straightened out at home." Jesus said, "No procrastination. No backward looks. You can't put God's kingdom off till tomorrow. Seize the day."

My own paraphrase of what Jesus is asking, " Are you going to give up what you want?" Yikes! Instantly my mind filled with thoughts of the wanting of my own classroom. I didn't like that. But am I going to be obedient and give up what I want? It's His plans and He doesn't need me to try to fix things the way I want them to be. He's got it figured out... "just follow me!"Looking at my wants over the next few days, I'm sure there's lots in my life because I just walk into Starbucks right now and I WANT all of the new items. For those who know me, I'm a huge procrastinator (and being a perfectionist, too) Look at what Jesus said, "NO PROCRASTINATION!Today's the day, get going." Talk about a kick in the hiney tonight!

I'm listening and ready to follow now. Hang in there with me, it's going to be the most interesting journey! Destination time: the rest of my life

ps A song we sang tonight had this phrase, "The One who spoke the waters into place whispers into my ear." He does all those amazing big and little things, just for me and you! Let Him whisper to you like He does to me.

I'm a perfectionist, I'll confess!

2009-11-20T14:53:00.000-08:00

But I can still get an A for effort!

Gratitude Friday

2009-11-20T03:04:00.000-08:00

It's the middle of the night but it's still Friday! Grab a BIG cup of coffee and join me in Gratitude Friday.

1. the ability to help plan Jennifer's wedding, via email! I just had a glimpse of the ceremony and reception materials needed for the big day. Jen and Brad arrive on Wednesday for the Thanksgiving weekend and I can already have some items in Jen's box to send back with her to Goldendale. If email wasn't available, we'd be sunk with waiting for the pony express! We have gotten spoiled with the speed of communication these days.

2. warm comforters! As I'm perched on my computer chair at 3:10, I realize that this house is cold and perhspa I really should be back under that warm comforter on my bed. However, I'll press on, share my thoughts that no one else ever really reads & then go back to bed.

3. teaching jobs! I've been blessed with many guest teaching jobs. I'm really starting to understand Kindergartners and how their little brains operate. They are sweet kiddos!

4. David's unemployment! Ok, it's definitely not a blessing, but his being off work has allowed me to write "honey do" lists for around the house. I have my longtime friend Wendy arriving on Saturday afternoon and the house is going to be sparkling because of his wonderful cleaning and polishing. The Thanksgiving meal is almost completely purchased and ready for consumption. I haven't lifted a finger on the shopping! Thanks, Mr. York!

5. snowflakes! I don't think I posted last week and there was a small showing of snowflurries during the afternoon recess break on Friday. One of the girls in another class had never seen snow before! It was a fascination to watch her during the recess. I almost felt giddy as she stuck her tongue out to catch a snowflake and, of course, I joined her!

6. Starbucks coffee and treats! I met up with my summertime boss yesterday and not only splurged on my favorite drink (first time Starbucks ALL week!), I inhaled the first of the season cranberry bliss bar. Oh my goodness! It was sooooo delightful. I can't afford to buy the whole loaf so I'm going to have to search for a recipe to make something very similar to it. Did I mention I also bought not one or two, but FOUR Christmas ornaments? The very cutest miniature Starbucks cold drink cups. Can't wait to see them on the tree! (I only get one; the kids get the rest!)

Wishing you a wonderful Friday before Thanksgiving! Enjoy your coffee this morning~ I know I will need a triple dose of it. Just insert the IV into my arm. I won't feel a thing, honest!

PS I'm needing to revise my blog -- it's kinda boring, both in look and information. I am definitely not the eloquent writer that I've seen out in blogland, nor am I filled with a sense of humor in my writings like my friend Mary (LOVE her blog! Cohagen Chronicles), or a "filled to the gill" writer of energy, play on words thoughts and inspiration like my friend Rachel at the beautiful Home Sanctuary site. I would like to be so blessed as a writer but I know I have a style of my own hidden somewhere....ideas?

Honoring Our Veterans Today!

2009-11-11T09:00:00.000-08:00

November 10 on 10

2009-11-11T08:59:00.000-08:00

Happy November "10 on 10." I didn't get the full ten this month. I had worked all day and by the time I got home, it was dark! But here's a few pictures of my day, with the backyard shots, the Beagle Boys and my favorite place for coffee. Enjoy!

first ice on the bird bath

weeping willow tree

cold morning for the Beagle Boys

Venti Vanilla Latte', please! Non-fat, extra hot

Dieter

Ubu

Gratitude Friday

2009-11-06T18:11:00.001-08:00

1. Five and six year olds! Great morning of teaching with them.

2. Hawaiian pizza! That's what's for dinner after a stressful afternoon (I taught a different grade level in the afternoon.)

3. Four days of work. With David being unemployed, every penny earned counts.

4. Leftover Halloween candy. I've been enjoying the samplers of Butterfingers and Snickers; items I can't take to school to share because of the peanuts.

5. An inexpensive brake repair job on David's car. What might have cost $500 was only $200. It was a faulty valve, not the actual brakes.

Ok, grab a cup of coffee and some pumpkin chocolate muffins. Take a minute to sit down and visit with me. I've missed you! What have you been up to these days?

Living Happily Ever After....

2009-11-01T06:57:00.000-08:00

Brad Bellamy proposed to Jennifer this week so we're adding a wonderful son-in-law to our family! We are SO excited!!!! No specifics on the wedding date but I'm guessing within the year.

Brad's from Goldendale where Jen teaches high school Spanish. He loves sports and she doesn't. Opposites do attract! But being in a small town means that sports are a big thing at the high school and she goes to all of the games. Of course, she's probably cheering for the assistant coach a lot! :)

They'll be joining us for Thanksgiving dinner so I'll be sure to get some great pictures.

Any advise for the mother of the bride?

Warning: Slow Moving Porcupines May End Up In Your Tires

2009-10-25T07:50:00.000-07:00

Last Tuesday night I was driving to Jen's house in Goldendale and came across a slow moving porcupine in the middle of the road. I saw it at the last minute and, of course, ran over it! The big guy might have already been dead or just trying to make it to the other side of the road & I interrupted his travels.

I screamed, not only because of the loud noise and thumps the collision caused, but I am one of those people who will stop for a chipmunk while they decide which way they'd like to go on the street and which tree is the best. Seeing flat animals makes me sad for the animal's family that's left behind at home. So, hitting a porcupine was one of those sad moments for me.

It was dark when I arrived at Jen's and no way to really check the car out to see if there was any damage. The next morning, Jen and I looked out and there were all these quills sticking out of my two right tires! Of course, we're both wondering if the quills will make the tires go flat. Pulling a few of them out I found out how sharp they are. The quills have barbs on them and were quite stuck into the rubber! I ended up pulling most of them out, but left a few of the "evidence" in place to show David when I got home.

On leaving Goldendale, I looked for signs of the porcupine and there was nothing on the road where the incident had occured. I wonder if the big guy walked off, saying "ha, can't hurt me...take that!" or if another animal had come along and scooped him off the road as a late evening snack.

I have the pulled out quills in a safe place (a baby food jar) to share with kids. I wish I had the full quills so I could use it when I read the book "Prickles"....a sweet book about a porcupine that doesn't have any friends because he's grumpy! But I wasn't about to stop and ask the prickly guy if I could have some of his quills for a teaching project. Life in the fast lane....not so fast when you're a porcupine!

Gratitude Friday

2009-10-23T07:14:00.000-07:00

Good morning! Coffee is on....grab a cup and join me in Gratitude Friday! What are you thankful for this week?

1. coffee! David roasted coffee beans last night and the coffee smells A-M-A-Z-I-N-G this morning.

2. kindergarten hugs! I taught Kindergarten yesterday and the kids swarmed all over me to give hugs when they arrived. Cherished moments. Talk about feeling loved!

3. the ability to still learn! I took a big midterm last night and even though I stressed over it (and don't think I did well!), imagine what would happen if I no longer could be a life time learner?

4. travel time! I spent the last week with my mom in Hansville, I served Lutefisk in Poulsbo, a quick overnight with my aunt & uncle in Auburn, a few nights in San Francisco with Ian and another quick overnight with Jen in Goldendale. That's a lot of miles. I LOVE traveling, though!!! (and all of the Starbucks that are waiting for me to visit!)

5. friends that continue to give me encouragement. Life hasn't been very fun lately. I can't explain everything that's going on, but it's been a sad journey since camp got over.

Thinking on Psalm 61 this morning: "O God, listen to my cry! Hear my prayer! From the ends of the earth I cry to you for help when my heart is overwhelmed. Lead me to the towering rock of safety, for you are my safe refuge, a fortress where my enemies cannot reach me. Let me live forever in your sanctuary, safe beneath the shelter of your wings." (vs 1-4)

Hope you have a wonderful Friday. I'm off to teach those sweet kindergartners again!!

Recipe of the week: Oven-Baked Pineapple Pork Chops - Gooseberry Patch

2009-10-13T08:57:00.001-07:00

From Gooseberry Patch, I'm making this recipe tonight for dinner!

Oven-Baked Pineapple Pork Chops

8-oz. can pineapple slices, drained and 4 T. juice reserved
2 T. soy sauce
1/2 t. ground ginger
1/2 t. garlic powder
4 pork loin chops
1/3 c. Italian-seasoned bread crumbs
1 t. paprika

Combine reserved pineapple juice, soy sauce, ginger and garlic powder in a shallow bowl; add pork chops, turning once to coat. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours. Gently toss bread crumbs and paprika in a pie plate; add pork chops, coating both sides. Arrange pork chops in an ungreased shallow 13"x9" baking pan. Bake at 350 degrees for 25 minutes. Turn pork chops; place one pineapple slice on each pork chop. Bake 25 additional minutes. Makes 4 servings.

October's 10 on 10

2009-10-10T19:59:00.000-07:00

I did it, I took pictures on the 10th of the month!! Lots of pictures of camp, plus a few of the beautiful Lake Spokane on a gorgeous fall day. Enjoy~

Gratitude Friday

2009-10-09T16:25:00.001-07:00

Woohoo, living on the edge today and changing the picture to the left! :)

I have been relaxing (aka LAZY) all day and just know getting to Gratitude Friday, plus sharing a cup of coffee with the Company Girls. No school today so no job = no stress! Kinda nice.

Grab a cup of coffee or hot chocolate (it is rather chilly at my house) and share your Friday Gratitude list with me.

My list:

1. medical insurance coverage. I know I've shared this before but I had to go to the dentist and doctor this week because of TMJ pain. I'm being sent to a TMJ specialist and right now the case is being reviewed. I'm in a lot of pain with not being able to eat much or sleep a lot. Thankfully the dental visit was seen as an emergency, which our dental insurance will cover, and the TMJ visit will be covered, too, because it's seen as medical treatment. I also appreciate the free muscle relaxer samples I can take at night, too. It has made a difference. (Now if I can get the dogs out of my bed at night, I'd be ecstatic!)

2. coffee with friends. It was a very early morning Starbucks date with Polly. I so appreciate her! I swamped her brain with questions and she gave me back some answers to think about. Love those friends who give constructive criticism with grace!

3. date night. David and I are going out tonight to see "Up!" Looks like a hilarious movie, we get to have popcorn for dinner because it's a very early showing, and just spend time together out of the house. (GREAT MOVIE! Loved the story of Carl and Ellie. My favorite quote is "Russell: Sometimes, it's the boring stuff I remember the most." Remember to enjoy the boring stuff, too. It's what memories are made of. GO SEE IT or buy it!)

4. extra work. I'm headed out to camp tomorrow to help work in the kitchen -- serving, dishes and cleaning. I LOVE IT! It's how I paid for my car insurance in high school and college, working at Island Lake Camp's kitchen. I was jumping for joy when Jenny asked if anyone could help her out this week. Imagine getting paid, too! It will be a beautiful fall day out at the camp. Taking my camera.

5. The ease of the Internet. In less than a half hour, I booked a flight to San Francisco and found a hotel to stay at. I'm going in 9 days to see Ian, flying out of Seattle (amazing low fare!) I loved being able to book everything myself and saving lots of $.

Ok, I'm off to see the movie. Could someone feed the Beagle Boys at 5 PM and play with the kitties til we return? THANKS!! Help yourself to whatever treats you can find above the stove... I'm sure there's chocolate up there!

Just this thought....

2009-10-08T09:58:00.000-07:00

Internal fighting.....between my heart and my head.

I was reading a blog this morning and Carol's story hit me like a brick. Not the actual story (besides tugging major at my heart because of her sweet baby Grace) but the end of the story. She asked some pretty pointed questions that got me thinking. As I read on another friend's blog, "my heart and head are in an arguement, continually!"

She asked : Do you feel all alone? Have you felt like shaking everyone around you and shouting, “Fix it”?

This is the verse Carol shared: "You know with all your heart and soul that not one of all the good promises the LORD your God gave you has failed. Every promise has been fulfilled; not one has failed." Joshua 23:14 NIV

I'm struggling in this area, trusting that He's in control. Esp with teaching jobs and in the friendship department these days.

How do YOU know with all your heart and soul that His promises to you have been fulfilled?

To read the rest of Carol's story, go to Internet Cafe Devotions.

Random Dozen

2009-10-07T08:09:00.000-07:00

Linda is hosting her weekly random dozen and she had a bit of a Hall and Oates theme going in her original post. Come play along...just answer these questions on your own blog and link back here to share your answers.

1. On an average, how often do you splurge and buy something for yourself? When I am being frugal, I don't splurge often. However, I am the queen of Starbucks and I will splurge at least once a week on a venti vanilla non fat latte, esp if it's payday Friday.

2. What is the last creative project you began/finished? Creative project would be cleaning my house for two and a half weeks while waiting for a teaching job! Time to start on it again since I have today off. Other projects include rubberstamping cards. I'll work on one today and post the picture.

3. OK, Goldie Locks, do you consider your house too big, too little or juuuust right? Hmm, contentment would be the question here. It's a small house but just right for the two of us. But it's not what I really want.

4. What is your favorite outdoor chore? Pooper scooping is NOT my favorite chore, but sitting on the back steps with the Beagle Boys after the job is done and enjoying the sunshine & the Boys...that's a great reward for doing that nasty chore.

5. If you knew that cigarette smoking was not bad for your health but would be a weight loss tool, would you use it? No Why or why not? Just like marijuana is supposed to help with MS, not using it even if I might feel better. Nasty, nasty, nasty!

6. On a road trip, would you rather drive or ride? If the road trip is with girlfriends, I like to drive. If it's with my hubby, I like to ride. Then I can read and sleep.

7. What do you consider a trivial pursuit? Trying to figure out life! My head and heart are always in an arguement.

8. So ... how long do you watch a movie or read a book before giving up on it? A book will get a couple of chapters. A movie will get turned off if it's at home. If we're at the theatre, we'll watch the whole thing even though we're thinking "let's leave!" Did you know that if you leave in the beginning of the movie because it's not to your liking, you can ask for your money back or get another movie ticket? You can't wait til the end of the movie, though! We've done it a few times with AMC movies.

9. Is there a song that you really love but are embarrassed to admit because it's not cool or it's racy or because it's by Hall and Oates? I can't think of one right off the top of my head. (Ok, I thought...I loved Bob Dylan's song "Lay, Lady, Lay" and Chris De Burgh's song "Lady in Red". Perhaps kinda racy but back when I heard them, I was pretty naive! :)

10. On a scale of 1-10 (10 = extremely) how spontaneous are you? 7 but not a big risk taker, either. My favorite thing to do is to jump in the car and go for a drive, not really knowing where I'm going. It's always full of surprises and usually enlightening, both in sights and my own thoughts.

11. Are you a food and/or beverage snob? yep. Starbucks is always my drink of choice for coffee!! (even though hubby roasts amazing coffee, a Starbucks latte is the best!) I can't forget that I'm totally in love with German Reisling wines, either. Don't give me a glass of red, it's got to be sweet white!

12. Who/What are you trying to control in your life? I am realizing that I try control friends (or keep them at arms' length) which doesn't make for good friendships. How do I stop this cycle?! I could use some constructive criticism in this department.

Happy World Card Making Day!

2009-10-03T07:02:00.000-07:00

I'll be making some cards inbetween studying for my English grammar class and doing some other errands today!! Have fun creating and brightening up someone's day with a homemade card. (If you would like a card, drop me an email with your snail mail address!)

I'll try to take some pictures of what I create. I know I need to make some birthday cards so this is a great day to get them completed. For more information about World Card Making Day, hop over to http://www.moxiefabworld.com/, which is presented by Paper Crafts.

Gratitude Friday

2009-10-02T07:03:00.000-07:00

Good morning! Freshly roasted coffee being served today in my Starbucks mugs...help yourself!

Gratitude Friday includes:

1. days off! I took yesterday off to recharge. I had a test last night in my English class and I wanted to study a little bit. Well, I studied, took a nap, had tea with a friend, got a flu shot, bought new glasses (I had to get progressive lenses!), cleaned the house and spent some time outside with the Beagle Boys. As much as I love teaching, it was nice to have to only make a decision for me or answer my own questions.

2. medical insurance! I got the flu shot yesterday and although I know they don't cost very much, my medical insurance pays for it all. Because we have our military medical benefits, I haven't had to worry about having other medical insurance while I'm not employed as a full time teacher. I know how blessed we are!

3. the crisp fall days! I love the changing of the colors of the leaves and knowing WHY they change. I'm headed up to Greenbluff this afternoon to get apples to make apple crisp and freeze some apple pie fillings.

4. drop in friends! I had two friends drop in for a visit this week. No call, just dropped in. I LOVE IT!! I miss having people at my house and they don't care that there's disarray all over the house. They came to see me!

5. warm sweaters and sweats! The temperatures have dropped and I'm not wanting to turn on the heat yet. So warm sweats to the rescue for cruising around the house in the early mornings and late evenings. I know, they're not the most beautiful and def don't win points with the fashion police, but they're warm and comfy. The warm sweaters.....cold, windy recess duty on Tuesday forced me to find a warm sweater for Wednesday, along with my coat! I'm thinking it's time to get acclimated or it's going to be a long winter.

What's on your list today? I hope you have a wonderful weekend. My friend Wendy is on her way to FL to see her husband, Lisa is on her way with her husband to Tahiti and I'm going to be wishing I could go somewhere instead of doing the gazillion items I've got to get done here. Have a great time, ladies! I'll just remember that I'm headed to Poulsbo in a few weeks to help with the Lutefisk dinner and San Francisco is going to be on the horizon soon, too!

Random Dozen

2009-09-28T22:38:00.000-07:00

1. Tell me the absolute best way to watch a movie. The absolute best way is to be with a great group of girlfriends, laughing and munching on popcorn. Of course, it's got to be a chick flick, too!

2. Do you ever think about your own funeral? If so, do you have specific ideas about how you would like it to be? I do think about my own funeral. No sad music!

3. Are you more of a giver or a taker? I am both, but unfortunately I'm a giver that sometimes expects something to be given back in return. I'm learning about this!

4. Vacations: planned activities and schedules, or play it by ear? It depends on the vacation. Often we play it by ear, but I love activities being planned. Esp. if it's a romantic getaway. Just something about everything being taken care of for me. Although, I love getting out the travel books and looking to see where we can go and what we can do. Money plays a big factor, too.

5. What is one often overlooked item in your home that needs to be cleaned regularly? The microwave. Gross crusty stuff that seems to just appear on the top inside of the microwave or on the door.

6. Name a cause that means a lot to you. The National Multiple Sclerosis Society. I have had MS for 8 years and am very ready for a cure for this disease!

7. Do you eat a regular old peanut butter jelly sandwich, or do you customize it? And by the way, jelly or no jelly? Fresh white bread, yummy fruit jam and it's got to be cut at least in half. I had a third grade teacher who forces us to have our sandwiches cut. I don't eat a sandwich now unless it's been cut! Silly, huh?

8. If we were having a conversation in person, how would I know if you were nervous? I pick at my fingernails when I am nervous. I could also take a long time to come up with a word I want to say. Not sure sometimes if it's nervousness or just a brain malfunction. It drives me nuts!

9. Do you have an elaborate bedtime routine, or just the basics of toothbrushing and jammies? just the basics

10. Have you ever regretted something you wrote on your blog? Wow, were you reading my blog this week? I made the worst blunder ever this week on my blog and I can tell you that humble pie and crow do not taste good at all. I will stick to keeping comments about others to myself, not on my blog!

11. Has anyone ever told you that you look like a famous person or celebrity? Did you agree? I have been told I look like my principal. The kids often get us mixed up, more that I look like her, though, not the other way around. No other famous person or celebrity, though.

12. If you were going to dedicate a song to a loved one or friend, what would the song be and to whom would it be dedicated? I would dedicate the song "Legacy" by Nicole Nordman, but I'm not sure who the dedication would include. It's more of a random song to get people to think about how they live right now! "How will they remember me: did I choose to love, did I point to Jesus? What type of legacy did I leave?"

For Random Dozen, head over to 2nd cup of Coffee's website! Thanks, Linda.

Friend Makin' Monday

2009-09-28T06:46:00.000-07:00

Happy Monday! Friend Makin' Monday....what a great way to start a Monday!

Today's topic is to list a few things you can't live without:

1. Jesus!

2. my family

3. coffee/Starbucks

4. MnM's

5. friends

6. laughter

7. warm jammies for those cold Spokane nights

8. Tahiti Sweetie lotion

9. books

10. the Internet

What would be on your list?

Gratitude Friday

2009-09-25T07:29:00.000-07:00

Good morning! I'm sitting here with an empty cup of coffee and time to fill it up again. Join me in another cup of coffee, freshly roasted by Mr. York!

Gratitude Friday includes:

1. a wonderful weekend in Walla Walla, WA with Mr. York for our 25th wedding anniversary getaway

2. Five full days of guest teaching this week (YAHOO!)

3. finding a local bakery that makes the best chocolate filled croissants, almost like the ones we got in Bitburg, Germany

4. my friend Robin is home from Alaska for the weekend and we'll have coffee together tomorrow morning

5. being able to help out a neighbor and another friend with furniture and household items that I was blessed to have in my possession but didn't really need. Amazing the amount of stuff I have. It's just STUFF!

What's on your gratitude list today? I have missed hearing from you!

Celebrating 25 years of marriage today!

2009-09-15T06:44:00.001-07:00

David and I are celebrating our 25th wedding anniversary today! I woke up this morning, wondering if I could turn the clock back since time has gone by so quickly. 25 years ago neither David and I thought we'd have gone all the places we traveled to or gone through so many interesting experiences! Nothing special for a celebration today because he has class tonight but we're leaving Friday afternoon for a weekend away. Not sure where we're going, it's a surprise from David! I'll have details for you after the weekend.

Whitworth University!

2009-09-05T16:36:00.001-07:00

New Whitworth University students and their parents began flooding the campus today, moving in and getting to know the beloved WU! It made me very nostalgic -- after finishing my degree two years ago, I love being on campus and I'd love to become a dorm mom!!

David started at Whitworth a few weeks ago, taking teacher certification classes. I'm starting on Thursday with "The Structure and Development of the English Language." I realized I only have ONE class to take to finish my Reading endorsement and eight classes to finish my English endorsement. Time to get cracking and make myself more marketable in the teaching field. The English endorsement would be for 5-12 grade so I actually could teach middle school and high school.

I still don't have a full time teaching job, but I do have a half day assignment on Tuesday at my favorite school in the entire Spokane area -- Ridgeview!

My parents are arriving on Monday afternoon and we're taking them to Anthony's for dinner. They're on their way to Wisconsin and parts of the US farther East. They'll be leaving the same time I leave for school on Tuesday. The poor beagle boys will have gone from having company for the past two weeks to being back in their crates for a half day!

Hope you have a great rest of your Labor Day weekend~ enjoy lots of coffee!!

Gratitude Friday

2009-08-28T11:24:00.001-07:00

Good morning, Company Girlfriends and everyone else! It's been awhile since I've done Gratitude Friday, due to being gone at camp forever. But I'm back home and at my computer lots more, instead of checking email, facebook and voicemail at Mile Marker 43. (The nearest wide spot in the road for cell phone service!)

I'm busy cleaning the house, putting things away, dusting high and low! (Earning big points for Home Sanctuary!) I was hoping to have a full time teaching job by now.....I've applied EVERYWHERE in WA State, even sending off an application packet to my hometown district of North Kitsap. However, nothing has surfaced yet so I'm waiting impatiently for a subfinder phone call. I've got a really cute first day of teaching outfit. So far, I've worn shorts to the school where I used to work as I volunteer to help my teaching friends get ready for their first day of school. Yesterday was that day for them. Today I chose to stay home and focus a bit on me!

Gratitude List for today~

1. a VERY wonderful summer of being at Tshimakain Creek Camp! I miss my camp family lots! The memories made and the kids' lives we touched -- priceless!

2. the Beagle Boys! They turned a year yesterday. We can't imagine life without them! Perhaps it'd be a smidge quieter and less chaotic. But they're so fun. I'll see if I can get a new picture of them posted today.

3. continued sunshine! I've been able to continue working on my tan in the afternoons, to keep it from fading since I've been home from camp. It's HOT during the day, but pleasant in the evening and crisp fall feeling in the mornings.

4. my cousins! I was at my cousin Dan's wedding last weekend. It was fun to be with my mom's side of the family. I'm the oldest of the cousins and there just doesn't seem to be enough time to see all of them, plus they're ALL busy! Here's a small picture of Monica, Teresa, Dan and myself.

5. fresh farm produce! I'm planning on going up to Greenbluff to get peaches and other fresh produce. There's a new type of corn on the cob I want to try. My friend Lisa B has zucchini for me...yipppeee!! Zucchini bread, zucchini choc chip muffins, zucchini fritters...yum~

Have a great weekend, everyone! To those of you whose kiddos don't start school for a bit longer, enjoy the rest of the summer! Glad you could join me for Gratitude Friday and a big cup of coffee. I've missed you!

Just this thought....

2009-08-27T14:07:00.000-07:00

Today is the first day of school for Spokane Public Schools. I didn't have a teaching job today so I volunteered in the office (my old job, actually!) and in the workroom to help teachers get things accomplished before the first bell rang! I LOVE public schools just because of this verse.....I love letting my light shine to the kids and staff! Looking forward to the school year, not just with Spokane School classrooms, but anywhere where I get to be with kids and teaching! Let my lifesong sing to you~

(In)Courage -- What Encourages Me?

2009-08-09T07:50:00.000-07:00

Courage –noun
1. the quality of mind or spirit that enables a person to face difficulty, danger, pain, etc., without fear; bravery.
2. Obsolete. the heart as the source of emotion.—Idiom
3. have the courage of one's convictions, to act in accordance with one's beliefs, esp. in spite of criticism.

This new website (In)Courage is launching tomorrow! (their button is on the left sidebar) Taking hope to heart is the site's motto and I can't wait to read about what courage and encouragement looks like in others' lives. "Imagine all of us sitting around the kitchen table at a beach house, coffee in our hands, listening to stories as different as each one telling them." I'm excited! Imagine, the beach, coffee and girlfriends from all over sharing stories. AMAZING!

What does courage look in my life? Courage is being a military wife for over 24 years and being brave during unsettling times in the world. Courage is my fight against MS and the unknowns. Courage is going back to college at age 40 and getting my Bachelor's degree in Elementary Education. Courage is stepping out in faith to try to become the best in what God has for me and learning to "Be Still!" It isn't easy. I fall, often and hard! But I'm thankful for my friends who encourage me in my journeys. I couldn't make it without encouragement!

Encouragement to me is taking time to share a cup of coffee to talk about the struggles and successes of life, my friends and family , an email or handwritten note that uplifts me, laughter with tears for the good times and bad, elementary kids who remind me daily how important my job is. Encouragement gives me extra strength to have the courage to face today and tomorrow without fear! What encourages you?

From another blog friend, I found this quote:

Spread love everywhere you go.

Let no one ever come to you without leaving happier.

~Mother Teresa

I can't wait to become friends with the (In)Courage girls! Check out the (in)courage website for yourself and be blessed~

I'm (IN!)

Gratitude Friday

2009-08-07T23:14:00.000-07:00

Hello! Whew, I made it with about 45 minutes to spare for my Gratitude Friday list. I am, in fact, drinking a Starbucks vanilla latte right now as I type this out. I can go get you one, too, if you'd like. There's a 24 hour Starbucks just a little bit away...what would you like?

My Gratitude list...

1. the ability to LAUGH! We had Mud Pit this week at camp and boy, did I get m-u-d-d-y! Stay tuned for pictures.

2. time to relax! While the rest of the camp was floating down the river on inner tubes, three of us floated on this big yellow float thing (it was round) and it took about an hour to go from the bridge back to camp. We stood up on it (and didn't tip!), we suntanned, we laughed, we just looked off into the distance and contemplated life or took time to be quiet. We decided we should do it every day.

3. my friend Robin! She was hired today by a school district in Anchorage. She and I have been friends since I started in the Whitworth cohort. Robin leaves on WEDNESDAY to start her new job the very next day. I will miss her dearly. She's been a great friend and support. Thank goodness for email and texting!

4. flip flops! I have been wearing different shoes at camp because of safety when we're doing the challenge course. I had some other cool slip ons that I LOVE when I'm off duty but I was getting a thick line of white on my feet. So I've switched to flip flops (good ones, not the 2.99 type!) to get a thinner white line. A girl's gotta do what a girl's gotta do to have an even tan line...white feet look funny.

5. time to look, in what seems "FOREVER", for a teaching job! If I had tons of major responsibilities around the house besides three cats, three dogs and a hubby, I wouldn't be able to spend this much time in front of the computer. I did turn down an international job in Baku (google to find out what country it's in!) because of lots of reasons. I won't say anymore but please pray that something opens up here in WA State. I am getting discouraged as it gets closer to start time for school.

Alrighty, it's been a pleasure to sip a Starbucks with you late into the late hours of Friday night. Hope you have an excellent weekend. I have NOTHING planned this weekend and since I've been experiencing a bit of vertigo and some other weird symptoms, I'm going to lay low. You can pray that the extreme heat hasn't made my MS flair up....I'm going to be bummed if this is what it's all about!

Share your gratitude list here with the group....check out the rest of Company Girl Coffee and see what Home Sanctuary has posted for us to do with the Small Things in Life.

ps Pictures are coming tomorrow!!

Gratitude Friday

2009-07-31T10:16:00.000-07:00

Good morning! Today's latte is from Cafe Fresca at Holy Family Hospital in Spokane. I just left there after having a follow up mammogram and ultrasound. I also got to visit with my good friend Diane who works at Holy Family. Life is good in the lump department...very benign features and I'll get checked again in a year.

I am on my way out the door to Leavenworth, WA for a relaxing weekend on the Wenatchee River. We were blessed to be able to rent a big cabin for my cousins, David and myself. Having spent six years in Germany, Leavenworth isn't much of a Bavarian type town for us but it's still a great place to visit and play. Ready to go....and guess what? There's a Starbucks in Leavenworth. Score~

Here's my gratitude list for the week:

1. suntan lotion! My nose keeps getting darker and darker so I have been putting Face 45 on it. I also lost my sunglasses so there's not the very noticeable line anymore! :)

2. Jennifer! She's home for the weekend to hang out with the Beagle Boys and kitties.

3. Ian! He's back in San Francisco going to college at Art Academy Institute. Keep him in your prayers as he searches for a job and an apartment to move into with his friends. It was nice to have him home to hang out with the beagle boys while I am at camp all week.

4. a cool place to lay my head! I've had horrid headaches due to the heat and it was nice to come home last night & be cooled off in our basement. Of course, our temps are usual for Eastern WA. Can't imagine what Puget Sound people are feeling with their super high temps.

5. watching kids laugh and play at camp! Jenny and Brian's two kids were at camp with me this week. I didn't get to be with them much but it was fun to watch them have a wonderful time!

Have a wonderful week~ miss hearing from you all!!

Gratitude Friday (on Sunday!)

2009-07-26T07:39:00.001-07:00

Good morning! Wow, what a week....it's been sooooo hot here in Spokane and camp was a constant GO for me. I arrived home on Thursday, slept most of Friday (super duper bad headaches!) and yesterday I was at a wedding and a luau housewarming. How to cram 1000's of activities and friends into one quick weekend....I think I am learning to master it all.

Here's my gratitude list....

1. the love of traveling and teaching. I interviewed for Quality Schools International this past week and so far I've been offered two jobs overseas. The first one was in Baku (I had no idea where this city and country is located!) and the most recent is in Atyrau, Kazakhstan. I don't think I'll be accepting either one (I'd have to move in about 3 weeks!) but I'm definitely willing to go overseas if I can't get a job here in WA. (and yes, I'd definitely go to MT, too!)

2. longtime friendships. The wedding I attended was for Amy Nelson, one of Charlotte's twins. Charlotte and I have known each other since jr high and I'm blessed to have her in Spokane where I get to laugh with her often.

3. the rain! This morning we woke up to rain. It's very nice to not have to water the lawns ourselves today. It's been VERY hot in the Pacific NW and everything is super dry. Fire danger is quite high.

4. Wild Women Group! I've been a part of the WW group for about five years. They never fail to keep me laughing. Alllllllllll I've learned about life comes from this group. I always am good for blushing in many of our conversations! We were at a luau housewarming for Terri last night, complete with spouses, significant others, friends and neighbors. They roasted a 160 lb pig. It was DELICOUS!!!

5. being able to fit into size 8 clothes! Yesterday I wore the cute dress that you see in the picture and I loved being able to fit into it. I bought it last fall and wondered if I would ever be able to wear it. Tada~ miracles do happen! Now to continue to keep myself this size -- lots of discipline and working out. But it's sooo worth it! Tons of compliments yesterday...happy smile.

Have a wonderful week! Next weekend David and I are traveling to Leavenworth, WA with my cousins from Canada. Inbetween now and then, it's an action filled week with elementary kids at camp.

Gratitude Friday

2009-07-17T06:01:00.000-07:00

Good morning! An amazing week at camp and now David, Ubu (one of the beagles) and I are headed to Long Beach, WA to hang out with my cousin and her hubbie and their three beagles. Dieter has to stay home due to having an owie on his left flank. I will do the rest of my gratitude list when I return on Sunday.....thankful for you!!

This week at camp!

2009-07-10T16:05:00.000-07:00

Gratitude Friday

2009-07-10T09:59:00.001-07:00

Good morning, everyone! I'm back from another week of camp. This morning I got up very early to have a Starbucks latte with my Whitworth friend Polly. We can go back there if you'd like for another cup of coffee or I can make a fresh pot of New Guinea coffee here at the house. You decide, your choice! :)

Here's my gratitude list for the week:

1. wisdom in knowing how to handle different situtations! I had to handle a few things at camp this week that were out of my comfort zone & I'm thankful that I had wisdom to proceed with grace, love and authority.
2. my son Ian! I had a phone call this morning from a dear friend who read in her Vacaville, CA paper that "Ian York, age 21 in Fresno, had committed suicide!" Naturally she was very concerned and checked in with me. My Ian is 22 and is living in Spokane for two more weeks. However, the phone call was a wake up call for me to spend more time with my Ian, tell him he's loved LOTS and encourage him as he headed back to CA for college.
3. the Spokane River! I'm learning to really love it. This week we tubed down it with 30+ kids. Megan (our camp nurse) and I sat in a double tube and felt like we were the Princesses of the Nile. I'm taking our tiaras next week.
4. a very loving vet! The Beagle Boys are at the vet this morning and it's a sad day for them because they're being neutered. It should be a quiet few days around here until they get their spunk back. Perhaps Hans and Gretel will be able to relax, too, with the boys on a quiet schedule.
5. my hairdresser, Melissa! I had coffee with her last Sunday and today she's doing my hair & my eyebrows. No more "Princess Diaries" eyebrow emergency!! I can't wait to see what she has in store for my hair today!
6. These verses from 1 Peter 3:8-9 "Finally, all of you should be of one mind. Sympathize with each other. Love each other as brothers and sisters. Be tenderhearted, and keep a humble spirit. Don't repay evil with evil. don't retaliate with insults when people insult you. Instead pay them back with a blessing. That is what God has called you to do and He will bless you for it!" These verses were on a slip of paper on my chair in staff meeting yesterday. I really have been thinking about them. As I go about my weekend and into my next week, that's how I want to live, esp being tenderhearted and keeping a humble spirit.

Thanks for praying for me this coming week. We're jumping back into a camp with high schoolers! They sure help me break down my own walls and take off masks. Here's hoping the same things will be accomplished with them & they will learn to love the Lord with all their heart, soul and mind.

2009-07-05T15:58:00.000-07:00

New kitties (aka new chewtoys for the Beagle Boys!)

2009-07-05T10:47:00.000-07:00

Hans (pure white) and Gretel (grey and black striped) have joined our family since last month. The Beagle Boys love them, somtimes a little too much. Never a dull moment with the four of them running everywhere!

Gratitude Friday

2009-07-03T22:22:00.001-07:00

It's late Friday night and I'm one tired skinny brown bear!! Two weeks at camp and I'm the darkest I've ever been with being out in the sun. Yes, I wear sunscreen but I just continue to darken. No coffee tonight unless you'd like to make it yourself. I think we have Country Time Leomonade in the fridge...help yourself!!

Gratitude Friday list includes:

1. young love....today Josephine and Kevin got married!! I have known Josephine since she was two & a part of my daycare in Germany. She and Ian (my son) have been best buds for 20 years and we're glad she's been a part of our lives! Congraluations, Jo and Kevin!! I'll see if I can get a picture posted of them.

2. the Spokane River....I have learned that by sitting in the river with a good book, I can keep really cool on our 90+ degree temp days. What a way to relax and enjoy the outdoors! It's soooo beautiful at the camp.

3. Speaking of camp...WOW!!!! 30 teenagers are part of my list this week. We had kids from Youth for Christ with us and the girls I had in my Challenge Course group were awesome. I learned sooooooo much from them! They each came with their own personal story of sadness and I was humbled. I pray that they have an wonderful school year and that they'd remember what they've learned from camp as they're home today and start school next month.

4. Cooking in the kitchen with my hubby! We tried a new Rachel Ray recipe this evening. It is HOT in the house....I really missed my quiet river time today!....and David had just gotten home from a baseball game. But he cooked right along with me. Dinner was great....pasta with sweet Italian sausage and broccoli.

5. payday!! I was able to buy a new camera today so I will be able to post pictures once again. I'm sad that I haven't had one for over a month because I've had some amazing photo ops and had to settle for making mental images in my brain.

6. air conditioned movie theatres...Ian and I watched "Public Enemies" this afternoon & were captured by the old time gangster movie featuring Johnny Depp and Christian Bale. Except for the bedroom type of scenes (I wanted to make Ian close his eyes!!), it was great!! Both the movie and the A/C, plus I splurged for a soda and popcorn. Nice to spend time with Ian, too.

7. catching up with friends! I had coffee with Melissa today. It was good to spend time with her!! I have such limited access to my cell phone (complete with text and email and internet) that I've been trying to connect with everyone while I'm home. I have to drive three miles one way to sit on the side of the road next to some hayfields to get service that comes and goes. I'm VERY THANKFUL for it. I consider it my "cell phone break", like others consider a smoke break. So shoot me an email or text me 5093893620 and I'll try to respond within a day or two. The emails are short since it is on my cell phone, but I'd love to get email from friends!

Happy 4th of July to everyone!! Thank a soldier for your freedom in the USA!

Gratitude Friday (on Saturday)

2009-06-26T09:21:00.001-07:00

Good morning! I'm back from my first week of camp...it was intense training on the challenge course. I think I am one big bruise/sore muscle! I'm learning lots, both about how to minister to the kids I'm working with and lots about myself. Amazing that at 45, I'm still figuring out me.

Here's my list this week~
1. cooler weather. It was hot at camp and I was thankful for the cooler mornings when I'd go for walks/runs. However, I have the start of a great tan!
2. the beauty of the camp. I sit on the deck of the lodge, with my coffee cup, looking at the stillness of the surrounding area. Yesterday I saw an osprey swoop down into the river to grab a fish & take it back up to its nest. HOW MAJESTIC!!
3. reminders of God's love everywhere. The team I'm with is amazing! Out of 18 team members, I'm the mom of the group. But they accept me with open arms and they're such a testimony of His love. We're learning lots together and I'm proud to be a part of Camp Tshimikain.
4. my own bed! Last night I think I fell into a "lack of sleep" coma. I don't remember my head hitting the pillow.
5. a super reliable car. We're headed to Seattle this morning for a half marathon. My car is such a great little car, with A/C. Now that we have a new transmission (in Feb), it has zero problems & it'll be perfect for parking in those tight little places.

Have a wonderful weekend~ coffee is always ready, plus adding unsweetened iced tea to the fridge, too. I miss my girlfriends~ esp. since I don't get email or cell phone coverage all week! (I had LOTS to catch up with -- 257 emails, FACEBOOK, laundry, playing with the puppies and kitties!)

Drop me a note...I'd love to hear from you! Headed back to camp in Monday morning~

Gratitude Friday

2009-06-19T10:33:00.000-07:00

Good morning! Grab a big cup of New Guinea coffee and enjoy the chaos with me. At the moment I have five dogs (three beagles, one border collie and one chow mix), four cats (two kittens, one young cat and one old cat), two adult kids and the one & only husband at my house! When the house is only 900 sq feet on the main floor, it's definite chaos when the four legged kids start running through the house! What a time of laughter, though!!

Here's my Gratitude Friday list:

1. strength to do pilates and circuit training! I might be sore tomorrow, but I did the classes this morning and made it through the entire hour & a half. Whew~ these last few pounds have been hanging on so I wanted to up the workouts. Tomorrow I'm doing a fun run, next week is the Seattle RNR Half Marathon.

2. my friend Polly! She and I met this morning for coffee at Rogue. She surprised me with a little birthday gift of a coffee journal and gel pens for writing about my summer adventures.

3. the rain! I don't have to water the lawns today.

4. Half.com! I have been able to purchase some amazing teacher types of books for dirt cheap, thanks to Half.com. When David lived in Germany, I was able to purchase DVDs and music for 75 cents, plus shipping. Check it out yourself!

5. little towns! I've applied for a 5th grade teaching job in the rural community of Tekoa,

Tekoa

The school is cuter than a bug's ear and only has about 100 kids enrolled in its elementary school. David and I are going down to the town tomorrow for the fun run because I truly believe in getting involved in the community where you work. I feel really good about this job and I'd love it if you'd join me in prayer about my application finding favor in whomever reads it & interviews me.

Tekoa Elementary School

This Monday I leave for camp so I won't be updating the blog except for Gratitude Fridays. You can send me mail at camp: Tshimakain Creek Camp (Attn: Kerri York) , 6088 Martha Boardman Rd, Ford, WA 99013.

Until next time, bottoms up on your coffee cup! And if you think of me, I could use a Starbucks run way out in the middle of nowhere -- venti nonfat vanilla latte!

Heart of Worship

2009-06-17T09:22:00.000-07:00

Last night as I was driving home, I was listening to this song and really listened to the first few lines. "When the music fades and all is stripped away, I simply come. Longing to bring something of worth that will bless your heart..." What am I doing these days to bless His heart, what do I have that is of worth to bring to Him? I'm headed to camp for the entire summer on Monday so I am busy finishing up last minute details around the house and completing a few more teaching applications. Camp will be a great time of relaxing, reflecting and being with the camp kids!

Point No Point Lighthouse

2009-06-08T14:57:00.000-07:00

Hansville, WA is the home of the Point No Point Lighthouse! I was there yesterday, walking on the beach that goes around the lighthouse. Savoring every moment of being in my barefeet, feeling the sand between my toes and the cold waters of Puget Sound. It's times like these that I cherish most -- carefree, sunny days with beautiful blue skies. If this is what Heaven's like, I've already seen a glimpse through Point No Point Lighthouse and beach!

Gratitude Friday

2009-06-05T06:50:00.000-07:00

Good morning! Coffee's on~ grab a cup and fill it up! I'm teaching 4th grade this morning at Fairchild AFB so I have to leave pretty soon but enjoy your cup of java. Just leave the cup on the counter, say goodbye to the Beagle Boys and be sure to shut the front door when you leave!

Here's my Gratitude list this morning:

1. ice cream, or to be exact, Skinny Cow ice cream! Low calorie yummy stuff that satisfies the want for something cold.

2. going home for the weekend! I'm headed to Hansville after work and I can't wait.

3. the little church that I attended while I was growing up! The Hansville Community Church is turning 100 years. I'm so thankful for it. I have a picture of me receiving my first Bible from Pastor Overmyer. Wow, you should see the pic...short hair, short dress. Probably about 1970 era.

4. Home Sanctuary! I picked up my floor in the bedroom, thanks to Rachel's prompting. My husband will be happy to come home tonight and not have to wander through the maze of piles.

5. the swing in the backyard! Last night I sat out on it with the hose, spraying the grass to water the areas that the sprinkler doesn't get and keeping myself cooled off, too. The Beagle Boys were out with me but they don't appreciate the water at all. They're pretty comical in all of the ways they try to escape the water spraying on them!

6. Summer plans -- working at the Union Gospel Mission Kids' Camp this summer. A free camp for kids that are from lower income families, it's a summer to just love on them and bless the socks off of them. 50 kids each week -- sunshine, the Spokane River, fun, laughter, kids and sharing Jesus! I'm sure that each weekend I come home, I'll be tired but have amazing stories to share of my adventures!

Have a super duper weekend -- a week and a half til school is out in Spokane!

Dreaming...A bargain in this economy!

2009-06-04T17:54:00.000-07:00

I have a big swing in my backyard, big enough for three people to sit or one person and two dogs! I absolutely love it because David bought it for me when I was first diagnosed with MS. It could easily become my retreat area in my own back yard. However, I started dreaming of taking it somewhere else or getting something new! There's just something refreshing about the water, mountains or comfort instead of looking at the neighbor's pool or the dried up back yard and zero privacy. See you if you like my choices of locations and furniture. My favorite is the lounger...if you would please put it outside on a lakefront cabin, I'd be in seventh heaven!! (You can buy it from Pottery Barn!) Good thing dreaming is free.....

Ta da~ Online Application Done, Documents Mailed ~ ON TIME!

2009-06-03T22:25:00.001-07:00

I worked hard tonight to get my online teaching applicaton completed for the Richland School District. They have three openings (a 2nd grade and two 4th grades) for the next school year. I was worried that I might have to make a very quick trip down to Richland (2.5 hours from Spokane) in order to hand deliver my resume and cover letter. Thank goodness I was able to upload them with the application. I priority mailed my teaching certificate and college transcripts yesterday so they will be at the district office with my college placement file. Lots of work to get a teaching job, but if I am blessed to have one of the cherish WA teaching jobs, I will be ecstatic! I'll wait to hear about an interview and we'll go from there. Please be praying! If it works out, I'd move down to Richland for the school year. Lots of logistics but I'll let God be in control. I did my best to complete my application on time. My theme is "if I give the best of me...that becomes my legacy!" I love teaching and I hope it shows through all of my documentation that I've submitted. The interviews is where I really need some coaching to say exactly the right things and not have a fuzzy brain.

Thanks for praying. Stay tuned....I should know something within the next two weeks.

Much Better!

2009-06-03T07:00:00.001-07:00

Today I'm feeling much better. Back on track and eating another bowl of multi grain cheerios.
Today's job is finding me teaching in the Resource Room. It's not a new school for me, but definitely a new assignment. I'm up for the challenge today!

Working on that teaching job application, too. I was able to do a quick post office run late in the afternoon to mail off a copy of my teaching certificate and all of my transcripts. Now to get the application complete and hit the "send" button. The deadline is tomorrow so I've got to keep pluggin' away!

Happy Wednesday, everyone!! Two more days til the weekend~

Double Crum

2009-06-02T17:40:00.001-07:00

I got sick this morning after working out at the gym! (I think it was taking meds!)

I had multi grain cheerios for breakfast! (my usual good breakfast!!) but not any coffee.

I had nothing but water for lunch due to having a back to back teaching job and I didn't pack a lunch!

This afternoon I inhaled a candy bar from Walmart!

This evening I ate three pieces of Domino's Hawaiian Pizza!

And I'm reaaaallllllllllly sleepy but the Beagle Boys need to be walked!

I think I'd better walk about 5 miles to get rid of everything I ate and make the scale happy again in the morning!!

This and that

2009-06-02T06:56:00.000-07:00

Just a few random thoughts this morning....

Teaching 1st grade today. Yesterday was Kindergarten and I think I am glad that I have no more Kindergarten jobs this school year! Love those little guys but I'm ready to teach in some higher grades!
Two new kitties! Jennifer and Brad decided that we needed a new kitten. Well, we're getting TWO! One is pure white (her name is Blanco) and the other is grey and white tabby (his name is Bandit) Not sure why they thought we needed one or two kittens. I guess they are coming home in a few weeks. I'll be sure to post pictures when they arrive. Wonder what the Beagle Boys will think of their new chew toys! (Mary, see?!?! You should have sent me your kitties!!)
Job searching. I'm working on a job application for Richland School District. They have a few openings and they're only 2 1/2 hours away from Spokane. I'd love to get the 5th grade position or the 4th grade or the 2nd grade! Getting a job in Richland would mean I would have to live there during the school year but it'd be a full time teaching job and I could come home on weekends. (or David could come see me!)
David is starting his teaching certification classes at Whitworth University in August!! He wants to get his endorsement in High School Science. After his graduation in 2012, we'll be able to move to where there's jobs!
21 days until I start work out at the Union Gospel Mission Kids' Camp! Lots to do between now and then -- including going home this weekend for a celebration of the Hansville Church, a wedding, continued training for the Seattle Rock and Roll Half Marathon and the Gaudy Gown Gala ladies' retreat. I live out at the camp Monday through Thursday, giving me three day weekends to be at home.

That's the odds and ends of my brain this morning..... time for a big cup of coffee! Enjoy your day~

Gratitude Friday

2009-05-28T23:25:00.000-07:00

Good morning! I'm still up on Thursday night so by the time I have my list done, it'll be Friday. Grab a cup of freshly roasted coffee (exclusively roasted for you by the Duke), a yummy blueberry muffin and think about you're thankful for. Here's my list:

1. things and events that continually make me go "hmmm." Been thinking a lot and it's good to evaluate of where I've been, where I'm at and where I'm headed. If you have my map, let me know because I sometimes I just don't know anymore!

This came through my email this morning. A definite "think about!" The harder the conflict, the more glorious the triumph. What we obtain too cheap, we esteem too lightly; it is dearness only that gives everything its value. I love the man that can smile in trouble, that can gather strength from distress and grow brave by reflection. 'Tis the business of little minds to shrink; but he whose heart is firm, and whose conscience approves his conduct, will pursue his principles unto death. - Thomas Paine

2. lilacs and their amazing fragrance! Yankee Candles has gotten close to bottling the smell in their candles, but nothing can replace the smell of fresh lilacs. I can press my nose into my three bushes forever. I'll be sad when the flowers are gone.

3. my kids! Ian turned 22 this week. We visited Jen's house this past weekend and got to meet Brad, the new love! It's fun getting to know them as adults and seeing their individual differences. (This picture is from a year ago when we had the Duke's Air Force retirement ceremony. BONUS GRATITUDE: I'm 20 pounds lighter now than in this photo!)

4. Mt. Hood. The mountain in Oregon was BEAUTIFUL when we were driving to my uncle's house. I could have stared at it all day long. I really love the ocean, but mountains are becoming some of my favorite things, too.

5. my cousin Gigi. Will you please pray for her? She has thyroid cancer and it's continuing to spread, despite her thyroid was taken out a few years ago. I love her tons and I'm very glad she's part of my life. We weren't able to spend much time together growing up so we're trying to make up for lost time. I can't wait to go to Long Beach, WA with her in July! She also has three beagles...how cool is that? "arrrrroooooo!"

Share with everyone what you're thankful for this morning! It's 5:18 Pacific Time and I'm checking to see if I have a morning teaching job. Nope...so I am also thankful I get to go back to bed for a few hours! However, if you still have coffee in your cup or would like a refill, Company Girl Coffee is the place to be! Head on over there, meet my friends and check out Rachel's newest & the most beautiful project of Company Girl. You'll be blessed! Have a great week~

Happy 22nd birthday, Ian!

2009-05-27T08:46:00.000-07:00

So many wonderful memories of the 22 years you've been in our family -- wishing you a wonderful birthday today and many great years to follow! Remember Who you represent, remember Rule #1 (Don't be an idiot!) and know that you are loved lots, always!

Sister, sister!

2009-05-25T16:03:00.000-07:00

I am happy to introduce my two sisters to you!! This is the first time that all three of us have EVER been together. Tammy, Mattie and I have never lived together and only have met each other about four times. Our paths only cross when our dad brings one of us to meet the other. The first time I met Tammy (left side of picture) was when I was pregnant with Ian (22 yrs ago!) The first time I met Mattie (right side of picture) was when he brought her to Germany and she was about 2 1/2 yrs old. (She's now 19!) This picture will be treasured FOREVER because it's the first time we've ever been photographed together. Amazing, huh?

We have a very interesting history between all of us but I'm so glad that we got to be together at the Hescock family reunion this weekend! Stay tuned for more great pictures of our family.

Gratitude Friday (on Saturday)

2009-05-23T07:25:00.000-07:00

Good morning! Grab a cup of coffee and share your gratitude list with me.

1. http://companygirl.com/ My friend Rachel is putting together a book all about girlfriends! I was looking at some of the photo entries this morning and realized how much I miss getting together with my many girlfriends. Why is there never time to get together or even just touch base via email, a phone call or snail mail? I'm going to have to fix that. I want more pictures of you all, esp since I lost my camera. Ok, hop over to Rachel's website and look at the photos I entered. If you have some amazing girlfriend photos you'd like to submit, go for it! Voting is going to take place after June 7th. (The photo below is from my birthday last yr!)

2. sunshine in the beautiful Pacific NW! Blue skies, warm temps and the purple lilacs blooming! Only thing that could be better...we could be camping this weekend!! sigh...

3. great days of guest teaching -- no kindergarten, either! I'm still searching diligently for a full time teaching job but know I am blessed with the amazing guest teaching jobs I've had this year. I'll be kind of sad when school gets out in a few weeks.

4. a new Starbucks that opened up on Fairchild AFB!

5. size 10 capris are too big...I bought some last night at Costco and I got them home to realize that they didn't fit. Back they went! So it was great incentive to go to the gym last night to walk/run five miles. Plus I got to watch the Seattle Mariners vs San Francisco Giants. I stopped my exercise after the 7th inning. I would have been there FOREVER since they went into the 12th inning with Seattle winning 2-1 (WOOHOO!) My secrets for continued weight loss and inches -- eating breakfast every morning, taking meds that help my body do what it's supposed to do instead of gaining more weight, lots of different types of exercise, almost zero sugar (including soda pop and only a smidge of chocolate) and try to not eat after 7 pm. It works for me!

Have a great weekend! The York family is headed to the Mt. Hood area tomorrow to attend a family reunion on my dad's side. It could be interesting. I love seeing my cousin Gigi who also has 2 beagles so just being with her will be worth the trip!

Siesta Scripture Memory Team

2009-05-21T06:33:00.000-07:00

As I was getting ready for the day, I was thinking about the song "beauty for ashes" and decided to look up the verse that goes with it. I think I will memorize Isaiah 61:3 as it reminds me to get out of the blue funk!

"To all who mourn in Israel, he will give a crown of beauty for ashes, a joyous blessing instead of mourning, festive praise instead of despair. In their righteousness, they will be like great oaks that the Lord has planted for his own glory." Isaiah 61:3

It's a beautiful day in the Pacific Northwest! I'm headed this morning to teach 2nd grade at Fairchild AFB...two days in the same classroom. How fun! Yesterday's job was with 1st and 2nd graders -- a wonderful day with those kiddos! I love being able to go into different classes in different schools and in different school districts -- and just being able to give 200% of myself to each class!

A Slow Day...

2009-05-19T11:09:00.000-07:00

It's nice to be at home today and just be able to read & nap! Mr. Sunshine isn't out playing and although I had an option to teach this afternoon, I've got some projects to get finished inside the house.

I heard back from the president of Quality Schools International (where the kindergarten teaching position was posted) and the job had been filled on Saturday. However, he gave great encouragement to me and through a series of emails, we'll be meeting this summer in Spokane for an interview!! WOOHOOO~ When I told him that the Duke is going back to school to get his teaching certificate in High School Science, he said they love to hire married couples to teach in their schools. Who knows, perhaps in the next few years, the Yorks could be teaching overseas somewhere!!

In the meantime, I'm continuing to search for teaching jobs. I found one in Walla Walla but definitely need to go back to school to become proficient in Spanish (it's a dual language elementary teacher position). There's also a lot of openings in Montana (thanks, Montana girlfriends!) but I've got to see how the Montana certification sysytem works & figure out how to get fingerprinted through their OPI. Wonder if I have to take a trip over to Missoula to get it all taken care of.

Time to find something to nibble on. The Beagle Boys and I will go on a walk later this afternoon!

Applying for teaching jobs!

2009-05-17T12:10:00.000-07:00

After learning that teaching jobs in WA will be very hard to obtain til there's money in the budgets once again, I've started applying in other states and countries! yes....COUNTRIES!! Today I applied for a kindergarten position through Quality Schools International. This job position is located in the Ukraine. While it's scary to have to think about being away from Spokane and my family, I need to be in a full time teaching job. I'm not sure if this is the right decision to be out of the country (didn't I think Grand Coulee and Nespelem was a bit of a commute last yr?) But I think I'm up for the challenge and to gain the valuable teaching experience needed to continue being a teacher of excellence.

If you know of teaching positions in your area (whether in the US or out of the country!), please let me know! I'm a Washington certified K-8 teacher, willing to be in a public, private and/or international school. Guest teaching is a very important role but I'm ready to be back in the classroom full time!! My love of teaching has become addictive~

"If I give the best of me, that becomes my legacy!" (from Mercy Me's Blink of An Eye)

Half Marathon Results

2009-05-16T20:03:00.000-07:00

Today's half marathon was a great race! Following the beautiful Spokane River, it was a fairly flat course. I finished in 2:51. I am very happy with the time since I'd finished my last half marathon in 3:30. I'm learning that I really need to have Gatorade or something similar in my system very early in the race so my right leg doesn't go weird on me at Mile 5. Those electolytes are definitely important! I tend to start out slow and then pick up speed towards the end, too. We'll see how the next race goes as I change a few things around.

My afternoon nap of 3 hours was longer than my race! I enjoyed every minute of it and woke up feeling quite refreshed & not so sore. Some people say I wasted a gorgeous afternoon here by sleeping but the nap was a great recharger for me. Tomorrow I'll do a short run for recovery! Then it's back to training for the Seattle Rock and Roll Half Marathon in June.

Gratitude Friday

2009-05-15T07:01:00.000-07:00

It's a beautiful morning in the Pacific Northwest! I took the Beagle Boys out for a walk this morning and we all got to enjoy the sunshine before we go our separate ways (I'm teaching Kindergarten and Third grade today, the boys are going into their crate for the day!)

Grab a mug of coffee or tea and join me in Gratitude Friday~

1. meeting up with Rachel in Ft. Worth!! It was definitely a treat to meet up with a girlfriend after 32 years of not seeing each other. We had a blast re-connecting.

My list is short this morning. I fell into a blue funk last night and it's time for an attitude change on my part.