Just this thought....

I don't understand...but I'll do this:

Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him,and He will direct your paths. Proverbs 3: 5-6

How Kerri is going to live from now on: "How You Live (Turn Up the Music)"

I really can't call it a celebration but MS has definitely changed my life these past eight years and has taught me many lessons. So as I go into the next year of the daily unknowns, I thought I'd make this my theme song. Join me in turning up the music! (The verse I'm memorizing is "Look to the Lord and His strength; seek His face always!" Psalm 105:4)


How You Live (Turn Up The Music) - Point of Grace

Signs of Spring in my yard

Spring has finally arrived in my yard. This is my little weeping willow tree that I've photograhed with lots of snow on it. Check it out now, so handsomely dressed in its glory! Then there's the little flowers that I love. The daffodils should be popping open any day and the other little guys are just as sweet as can be as I spied them this morning. My tulips are still underground because the snow was on top of them until recently. I'll definitely have lots of color in a few weeks! Thank goodness for spring and all its beauty!

Miniature Weeping Willow Tree

Bulbs of all types show their heads!

Photo Hunt: #155 HANDS

This week's photo hunt was "HANDS!" I taught Kindergarten all week in Spokane and I had a lot of sweet little hands dying to be photographed. Here they are in a crazy "go team" formation!

AM Kindergarten Hands

PM Kindergarten Hands

For more photo hunt pictures, go to http://tnchick.com. Enjoy!

Gratitude Friday

Good morning to you! After sleeping 10 hours last night, it truly is a gratitude Friday of YAHOOO, it's FRIDAY and it's SPRING BREAK NEXT WEEK!! :)

Grab a big mug this morning. You can have coffee, tea or whatever else your heart desires! Today I'm asking you sit down with me and share your gratitude list! After you've read my list, I'd love a word of encouragement from you, too, for my journal I've kept about my MS journey. Here's my gratitude list for today:

1. for a wonderful dr 8 years ago who saw through all of my physical pain and made the decision to have an MRI done of my brain. Today is my 8th anniversary of the MS diagnosis and I'm going pretty strong! There are days that I take it easy but if you have read anything on this blog, you'll know I'm very active and don't let the dust settle on me much. To learn more about MS, visit the National MS Society's web site and Copaxone's web site (the daily shot I take!) You'll learn lots about this horrid disease! You can always ask me questions, too.

2. for the beautiful sunshine! Yesterday being out on the playground was amazing. I didn't even have to wear a coat and got to pull out the sunglasses!

3. for Mr. York! He was wearing a heart monitor for a few days to check out to see what his heart's doing and why he's having problems breathing. He also had a job interview and test for a position with the WA State Patrol. I think this job would be perfect for him and give a better sense of belonging (if that's the right word to use). He goes on Thursday for another big test for the job! We'll find out in a few weeks about his heart! (and believe me, I made sure his heart got a great workout....smiling!)

4. for a very full week of teaching. The kids have amazed me all week, made my heart sing with excitement each and every day. You know I got tired and I think I'm recharged now for today. I bet Starbucks can help me out this morning a little bit to make sure I'm recharged!

5. for this verse: "Look to the Lord and His strength; seek His face daily" Psalm 105:4 Exactly what I needed to read this morning!

Have a wonderful Friday, everyone!! Thanks for your latte comments~

New music and something to listen it with!

I have decided to upgrade my music equipment for working out! I need help getting some upbeat music for walking/running/biking. What's on your playlist that's exciting and got a great beat?!

Of course, then there's the question of what to buy to listen to it with! An Ipod classic, a nano, a shuffle? what's your preference?

Busy Girl here

Wow, I haven't blogged since Sunday! I've been online checking things out, but haven't sat down to collect my thoughts for a few days. But I have been a mad woman spring cleaning my house. I think my husband doesn't recognize the kitchen -- it's spotless!

I've been teaching Kindergarten all week for my two friends, Holly and Robin. Both teach half time at two different schools. I start at Holly's school for the morning session and then eat my lunch in the car while I zip over to Robin's school for the afternoon session. I've had lots of fun with their kiddos.

Holly is done with conferences already so this morning I'm teaching a 2nd/3rd grade multi-age classroom for Mia (bummer to be sick during conference week!) and then headed to teach Robin's kindergartners. The sun is supposed to be out here today and I'm looking forward to an afternoon recess with the kiddos. Recess duty isn't bad when it's nice weather! :)

I'm still contemplating on what to do for spring break!! Mr. York is needing to go to Ellensburg on Thursday to do a test for a possible new job with the Washington State Patrol. He's passed the first test and the job interview. I'll have to see if he's taking the entire day off. Perhaps I can drive along with him (short three hour drive one way!) and we can go down to Jen's for a late lunch before heading back home. Friday is an MS appt to check in with the neurologist. So, whatever I plan for spring break, it has to be between Saturday and Wed! Ideas?!

This and that

It's late Sunday afternoon and I'm back from the gym, after a strong endurance 12 mile bike ride! Whew, I should be in the shower but since you can't *smell* me, I can write before I get changed into fresh clothes! :)

1. The weather today has been drippy. Not complaining because God's watering the grass for us and melting the rest of the snow. I guess I would just like some sunshine, too!! If you color me a picture of spring, just know that the color grey is not my favorite color.

2. I went grocery shopping today. Whew, prices sure have gone up, even when shopping at the commissary!! I'm trying to think if I snuck anything into the basket that was chocolate or yummy. Perhaps the chocolate whipped cream and the angel food cake were the only "bad" things I bought. Everything else was on the list and pretty healthy. One thing I was looking for was millet for a new banana muffin recipe. What is millet? I was thinking it was a cereal or grain. Hmmm...ideas on where to find it besides at the health food type of store? (In Spokane, that'd be Huckleberries or Fred Meyers.) I've got my menu plan done for the next week so I'll see if I can remember to post it tomorrow.

3. Ian goes back to San Francisco for college tomorrow. We're taking him out tonight for Indian food. I'd much rather go to Taste of India than out for sushi. Bleck on raw fish! It's been nice having him home, although we haven't seen much of him. His buddies from high school are home, too, so they've all been hanging out together!

4. Girl Scout cookies are in! YUMMMMMM! I bought two types for the Easter baskets -- thin mints and samoas -- Ian gets to take his cookies with him tomorrow. I bet they don't last through Tuesday! I bought Trefoils for myself. They melt in your mouth when you eat them in bed while reading. Don't chew them, just let them sit in your mouth. They're the best! Bet you didn't know that! (or you can dip them in hot chocolate...they're great that way, too.)

5. I think I need to go back to the gym after even thinking about eating tonight at the restaurant and if I touch more than 2 cookies. Why is it so easy to gain and so doggone hard to lose, even when you eat in moderation and try your best to exercise those extra pounds off?

6. Mr. York raked the back yard this afternoon. It looks so nice. No more land mines from the dogs! I'm ready to plant some things. Hmm, wonder what I could do that the Beagle Boys wouldn't destroy? Mary, I want to do Sweet Peas!! I love the smell and the colors of those sweet flowers. Do you have a special spot at your house for them to climb? I'd share seeds with you!

7. This week is a full week of teaching sweet kindergartners. I have two girlfriends who both teach half time, at two different schools. One is in the morning and the other is in the afternoon. I'm starting up north at Holly's and then zipping southwest to Robin's right at noon. I've got to remember to pack my lunch so I can eat in the car and have time to rejuveniate before the kiddos arrive at 12:45.

Ok, I've rambled enough for tonight. It's time to change and get ready to go out to dinner with the York boys. Have a great rest of your weekend, wherever you are. Know that you are loved!

Race for the Cure -- April 19th

I just signed up to participate in the Susan Komen's Race for the Cure event! It's happening in Spokane on April 19th and my fundraising goal is $500. After having one scare of having a breast lump removed (it wasn't cancerous, thank goodness!) and carefully watching another lump at the present moment, I'm committed to help find a cure for breast cancer! I also have a few girlfriends who have experienced a battle or two with breast cancer. The funds I raise will help out all of us. Will you help me meet my goal of $500 this year?

Here's my home page for the Race for the Cure where you can enter your donation information online. (http://race.komenspokane.org/goto/kerriyork)

Thank you so much for your support! If you can't give financially, I'd honor your prayers and words of encouragement just as much!!!

Gratitude Friday

Today is my absolute favorite day of the year -- the first day of SPRING!!!

This morning I'm serving coffee that my husband roasted himself. Not sure what country the beans are from, but it's pretty yummy! Grab a cup and join me in Gratitude Friday.

1. first day of Spring! I look forward to this day so much, esp after the winter that Spokane has had! I love the daffodils and tulips that are coming up. Just new life!!

2. great teaching jobs all this week. I've taught two different classes of first graders and two different classes of 5th and 6th graders. Each class is unique and wonderful!

3. having Ian home this week for his spring break. I haven't seen much of him, but it's nice having him home!

4. the gift of sight and hearing. I'm looking out into my backyard and can see the little weeping willow tree with its new buds and the snow is all gone! I can hear the birds singing outside & my radio inside playing "Who Am I?" (When I had optic neuritis last year, sight became a big issue as I lost vision in my left eye for three weeks. SCARY!)

5. brand new soft white socks that match! Today is a casual day at school so I'm in jeans, Ridgeview t-shirt and new white socks with my comfy Saucony shoes. It's going to be a great day!

Figuring out the days coming up

I haven't updated my blog, nor have I taken any pictures, since returning from Orlando. Time to get out of the slump and get creative again. I am teaching 5th/6th grade today and then I have tomorrow off. Nothing planned for the weekend, either.

What should I do?

Siesta Scripture Memory Team: Verse 6

"Taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the man who takes refuge in Him." Psalm 34:8

DisneyWorld Princess Half Marathon Photos!

Once upon a time there were 4 girlfriends who met to do a half marathon...

And they lived happily ever after!

Gratitude Friday

I got a late start today on my Gratitude List! I took today off from work and just enjoyed the day. Grab a cup of tea or coffee and share your list with me~ I so enjoy reading your lists of gratitude!

1. sunshine, sunshine, sunshine! (warm and sunny, cold and sunny -- I've experienced both this week)

2. a wonderful neurologist who not only prayed with me during last week's visit, but called me up today to check on me. WOW!

3. my hair stylist Melissa. What a hero! We (she!) took care of that grey today, added some highlights and texturized my hair. It's beautiful once again!

4. my principal friend who has been there for me through thick and thin these past 10 years & I'm blessed because of her positive role model as an educator and a friend. Please be praying for her in the next few weeks!

5. the beauty of Tshimakain Creek Camp! I went out there to deliver a few things and got to tour the camp. This is where I'll be working all summer. It was soooooo pretty -- deer on the property, the Spokane River running alongside the camp, wonderful new facilities and great people to work with!

6. Even though I had to leave the warmth and relaxation of Orlando, I jumped back into the teaching routine just fine. I taught Kindergarten, Special Education and third grade this week! LOVE IT~

7. friends who stop by for tea -- what a treat today!

Sunny Thursday morning~

I'm sitting in my dining area this morning, looking at the bright sunshine that's reflecting off of the snow in the backyard. It's pretty! I'd been excited about seeing the yard again, though. Spring is just 8 days away, according to my calendar! MY ABSOLUTE FAVORITE DAY OF THE YEAR!!!

I will post some pictures when I get home from teaching today. Lots to share~ you'll love the Disney pictures!

I think the neatest thing about being in Orlando wasn't just seeing the girls and doing the Princess Half Marathon or enjoying the beautiful sunshine and warmth or laughing all the time. (all very imporant things by the way and I know I was blessed!) The neatest thing was seeing my chaplain friend Charlie and soaking in his words of wisdom in the short time we had together as he drove me to the airport. Ever hear the verse "Be still and know I am God" ? Charlie reminded me of this verse and I said "I can't do it...I can't be still." He replied, "You can but you won't because you are scared of what might happen!" Wow, what do you think?! Any words of wisdom from you?

Home in the Pacific Snowwest!

Good morning, everyone! In reality, I'm back in Spokane with the snow and the 9 degree weather. But in my heart, I'm still in Orlando, wearing my two piece swimsuit, laying next to the pool & enjoying the beautiful warm sunshine! :)

I finished the Princess 1/2 Marathon in 3 hours and 37 minutes. Not my fastest time but I didn't run at all. It was a wonderful race and I can't wait to do the Disneyland 1/2 marathon in September.

More later. Just wanted to say GOOD MORNING!!

DisneyWorld!

fun, sun, friends, laughter, very warm temps, no snow! It is wonderful. Tomorrow is the Princess half marathon- yes, I'm racing. I meet other Air Force friends tomorrow, too. Big party with the Mouse and friends in the evening. I'm loving it here esp with my toes in the sand at Blizzard Beach. Wake me up when it's time for reality again!

DisneyWorld is just in time...it's snowing big time in Spokane!

Good morning! I leave in a few hours for Disney World. The snowflakes just starting coming down an hour ago. I put the snow shovels away on Tuesday, perhaps a bit too premature on my part. Oh well, I'm not going to shovel. I'm headed to FLORIDA!

I'm about packed and thinking about what little things I might need to get done before Lisa takes me to the airport. The beagle boys got a bath this morning so they won't be stinky for Mr. York while I'm gone and I've got dishes done. Everything else...who cares?! :)

I'll try to check in while I'm gone. Not taking my computer but one of the girlfriends will probably have their's.

Have a wonderful four days while I'm gone!

Siesta Scripture Memory Team: Verse 5 !

Micah 6:8 NIV

"He has showed you, O man, what is good.

And what does the LORD require of you?

To act justly and to love mercy

and to walk humbly with your God."

Join the Siesta Scripture Memory challenge with LPM!

This and That

It's a rainy Sunday night. I've had a busy day so I thought I'd share a smidge with you.

I had a super bad headache since Friday and when I woke up this morning, it was finally gone. I tried almost everything to get rid of it. I didn't even go to church last night because I knew that the beat of the drums and the bass would make my head hurt worse! Thank goodness for extra strength Tylenol and a nice comfy bed to snuggle into to sleep.

I took time this morning to go shopping. I bought clear storage containers for my walk in closet. I seriously need 9-1-1 Housekeeper or an Organizing Coach to help me with this "room." I have teaching stuff in there, Christmas, rubberstamping, all seasons of clothing, shoes, kids' momentos, pictures, etc. WHAT A MESS!! Plus the two dressers and David's clothes when I allow him the room! :)

The gym and I became friends again. I did three miles on the treadmill. My foot doesn't hurt at all so I think I might be okay for the half marathon. I loved being back in the gym with my new earphones, listening to great Christian music. Definitely uplifting!

I worked in the closet for a bit. It was a little overwhelming but I also got some items ready to take to Disneyworld. I am determined to have NO turtlenecks or heavy sweaters with me. If it snows while I'm there, I'm going to cry!!!!!

Then I zipped over to the mall to look for a new suitcase. Check this out....a Liz suitcase, orginally $200 and I got it for $19!! WOOOHOOO~

Robin met me at the mall and we had Starbucks at Barnes and Noble. It was nice to get caught up with her. We called our other two Whitworth girlfriends and left voice mail for them. I miss being able to spend time with each of them. So, I try to call at least once a week, email, or stop by their homes for random things.

Funniest thing tonight is that I stopped in at Victoria Secret's to browse...always looking for cute essentials. Anyways, I tried some lotion on my hands, not realizing that it has SPARKLES in it. I really like the lotion... it smells great!!!! I might just have to get some anyways and remember it's for at home only. ::::smiling:::::

Now that I'm home, I'm enjoying a glass of wine as I type this. It's a definite "this and that" type of blog posting.

Happy Sunday night, everyone! And in honor of Paul Harvey, "stay tuned for the rest of the story!"