mir·a·cle [ mírrək'l ]
1.act of God: an event that appears to be contrary to the laws of nature and is regarded as an act of God
2. amazing event: an event or action that is amazing, extraordinary, or unexpected
3. marvelous example: something admired as a marvelous creation or example of a particular type of science or skill
Today's blog post on The Brave Girls Club is about miracles. I have been thinking of the miracles that Demi and I have experienced this year as well as family and friends. I ran across this quote that sums up how I feel about life and every day miracles.
There are only two ways to live your life. One is as though nothing is a miracle. The other is as though everything is a miracle. Albert Einstein
This Christmas season I hope you will remember the reason we celebrate this holiday and I am including one of my all time favorite song about Mary and her baby boy, Jesus - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A1oHJR2g7Tw
4 years ago I was blessed to have found my skin cancer due to having migraines. Long story short, I went in to have some tests run to find out what was causing my migraines. Low and behold, my mom's best friend, my angel saw a spot on my leg which happened to be cancer. 3 surgeries later, cancer removed and gone and no more migraines. So I do look at every day as a gift and am thankful for life!
Everyday I look at my sweet 10 year old daughter, I am reminded of the miracle of conception and birth. I am so honored and know it is a miracle to have her and to be her mom.
The Miracle this year has been the meeting of her father's side of the family. From her summer outing in SA, she now has a relationship with her big sister, younger sister and brother. She has another wonderful grandma who adores her and an aunt who has always wanted to know now does along with an uncle whom Demi adores. It's as if she has known them her whole life! The relationship with her "daddy" as she calls him is beginning with Demi hoping to have more time with him once his wife is on board in her heart and mind. To know my daughter, you would be amazed at how happy she has always been because we have been loved by many to include my family, our church and our friends/neighbors. Nothing is by chance and everything has been planned just the way God intended. Along the way, miracles continue to happen openings many doors along this journey called life. It is a miracle to see the JOY in her heart. A joy that has brought many smiles to a mom who loves her dearly. So today as I sit without her this week, I know she is enjoying her first christmas with them. I am reminded of the miracle of time and answered prayers. The last 10 years with her have been amazing and now I get to share her with so many others who love her so much.
Do you believe in MIRACLES? I believe God performs miracles all day in our lives, some of which we never see or know about....I get so excited when thinking about how much God loves me/us and so today as I close my post it makes me ask the question: What can I do tomorrow and this week to create miracles and am I willing to do the little things that make or could make the difference in my life and others that I come across. I am talking about being deliberate in my acts of kindness and compassion to make the world better. I pray my daughter's heart, mind and actions will do the same.
Be a MIRACLE, Believe in MIRACLES and Expect MIRACLES!!
xoxoxox
BiT
Monday, December 20, 2010
Sunday, December 19, 2010
Love, Serve and Live with Intention.....
I love SONdays and the true meaning of Christmas! Tis the season of MIRACLES and for that I am so thankful for each and every day that I am given. It is a gift that means so much <3
Yesterday's service and the play, The Three Kings was so awesome. (I saw this same play last year and yet it had so much more meaning this year as does every message each SONday). It was not about what gifts they brought for their Savior but what God wanted them to give and what each of them had waited a life time to bring....their hearts, their worship and their lives. It had me thinking today about how I could and want to do all these with intention to fully experience all that God has to offer this holiday season and year to come. I want to build on this year and all that has happened and what has yet to come.
Swithcing gears as I often do. Today I drove my daughter to her Memaw and on the way got upset with my daughter. I want to start by saying that although I live with a thankful heart, I still find days and times when I let the little things bother me when I shouldn't. Why? I don't know but I know in the big scheme of things that they don't really matter after the fact. Today Demi forgot to pack her good boots and yet I was really bothered by this? Then after I got upset, I said to myself does it really matter what shoes she has on? Initially I was upset because I want her to take some responsibility with her things but after thinking about it realized it was more about what I thought she should look like and what I wanted others to see. Great shots with pretty clothes, pretty hair and pretty boots. Really? If this was my last moment with her is this how I would want her to remember me or our last hour together? The answer is NO and then the quilt sets in. I want to do better and really feel bad even going there so now I need her to know that I really could care less if she were barefoot and that I want her to cherish this holiday with her dad's family and to know that I love her no matter what she looks like, what her grades are and all those expectations we have as parents are only because we want them to have and live their best life. Again, I hate that I let any day have moments like this and will continue to work to make our life a carefree, happy and loving home where she knows she is loved because she is a child of God and so very special. My heart knows this but my mind does not always show this in my words and actions. Sometimes I wonder if I am the only mom who has moments like this and am I the only one is messes up. Think....Act...Speak....words of love, affirmation and kindness to the one I love the most. I really do need to lighten up....let her be a kid, let her mess up...let her be with no expectations because I am so blessed to have her and she is always doing her best...afterall most kids want to please adults and their parents with everything they do. I don't want a perfect child, I want a happy, loving, giving, well rounded child who speaks the same words she sees her mom saying. Do the things you want your kids to do and say the things you want your kids to say and let them know you are NOT perfect and mess up. Live the life you want your kids to model! Great advice but not always easy. I do think that this can be made easier by having a support group and friends who share similiar values and beliefs.
Why do women carry the weight of the world on themselves and why do we expect so much from ourselves...why are we so hard on ourselves? I WILL DO BETTER BECAUSE I KNOW BETTER!!
If you haven't notice with my blog, I blog about life and often use this forum to figure things out in my mind and heart. It helps to write...to think...to read!
I want to live and be the best Christian, Mom, daughter, aunt, friend, teacher and woman I can be NOW, in this moment and this day. This very thing can often get lost in going through the motions in the every day because our days are filled with so many things to do. As I single mom, I start the day running and end the race glad to have had another day. What did I miss that I could have done better and are there days that go by that I could have gotten more done. Did my day count for something good and did I make a difference? Did I do the best I could?
My word for 2010 was BEST. I love where my journey has taken me and am excited about what God has in store for me in the days, months and year to come.
So as I contemplate my word for 2011, I know I want to live INTENTIONally with a purpose in this moment and this life. So much to do....HOPES and DREAMS to create and live a life that when is done, God says well done child. I want to write my bucket list and goals for the upcoming year. I want to get even more excited about life. I am thankful for everyday but that just isn't enough. I want to share and live a life with my 10 year old angel that says ANYTHING and EVERYTHING IS POSSIBLE and DREAMS DO COME TRUE...YOU MUST BELIEVE IT. IT IS NOT WHAT HAS HAPPENED IN THE PAST BUT WHAT YOU MAKE OF WHAT YOU HAVE TODAY. I honestly feel like we can teach our children valuable life lessons by how we react to our challenges more than ever. I have never been much for changes but we will loose our home after the first of the year. At first my pride was hurt, I was upset for letting myself get in this situation but I also know that I can teach my daughter that I will and can bounce back and have a life far better and richer. A home is not the walls we live in but the love that is on the inside and the memories we create. It doesn't really matter where we live but how we live and love others and we can do that from anywhere. Easy, no, but life is not always easy and we will be stronger together for surviving this and for allowing God to open new doors and a new life, one that is even better than we could ever imagine. Sometimes doors need to close in order for God to open other doors and so I say, good bye 2010 and hello 2011. I am ready to experience the JOY of giving and serving while loving and living the life God intended me to this day and those to come should I be blessed with the gift of life.
PS - I am on my way to visit some blogs that I enjoy and find uplifting...there are so many wonderful women in this world wanting to make a difference and are living with intention in wanting others to know they are not alone such as Melody Ross at The Brave Girls Club and 29DaysofGiving. Thank you to you both for opening your lives and stories and for wanting to give back so that others would know it is not our circumstances that define who we are but how we deal with those challenges and struggles.
Happy Holidays and a Happy Monday to you whereever you are in life....if you are dealing with challenges I hope you know that God loves you and you have a friend here if you need to talk! A bit of advice and something I love doing...if you will take the time to say one kind thing to someone, do one kind thing for someone else, you will find a bit of happiness that will start to put a sparkle back in your heart It truly does feel so good to do something for someone else and as I always say you never know when your smile or kind gesture will give someone else the HOPE they sop desparately need to keep going. It only takes on person to change the world as does one penny.
xoxoxo
Diana
Yesterday's service and the play, The Three Kings was so awesome. (I saw this same play last year and yet it had so much more meaning this year as does every message each SONday). It was not about what gifts they brought for their Savior but what God wanted them to give and what each of them had waited a life time to bring....their hearts, their worship and their lives. It had me thinking today about how I could and want to do all these with intention to fully experience all that God has to offer this holiday season and year to come. I want to build on this year and all that has happened and what has yet to come.
Swithcing gears as I often do. Today I drove my daughter to her Memaw and on the way got upset with my daughter. I want to start by saying that although I live with a thankful heart, I still find days and times when I let the little things bother me when I shouldn't. Why? I don't know but I know in the big scheme of things that they don't really matter after the fact. Today Demi forgot to pack her good boots and yet I was really bothered by this? Then after I got upset, I said to myself does it really matter what shoes she has on? Initially I was upset because I want her to take some responsibility with her things but after thinking about it realized it was more about what I thought she should look like and what I wanted others to see. Great shots with pretty clothes, pretty hair and pretty boots. Really? If this was my last moment with her is this how I would want her to remember me or our last hour together? The answer is NO and then the quilt sets in. I want to do better and really feel bad even going there so now I need her to know that I really could care less if she were barefoot and that I want her to cherish this holiday with her dad's family and to know that I love her no matter what she looks like, what her grades are and all those expectations we have as parents are only because we want them to have and live their best life. Again, I hate that I let any day have moments like this and will continue to work to make our life a carefree, happy and loving home where she knows she is loved because she is a child of God and so very special. My heart knows this but my mind does not always show this in my words and actions. Sometimes I wonder if I am the only mom who has moments like this and am I the only one is messes up. Think....Act...Speak....words of love, affirmation and kindness to the one I love the most. I really do need to lighten up....let her be a kid, let her mess up...let her be with no expectations because I am so blessed to have her and she is always doing her best...afterall most kids want to please adults and their parents with everything they do. I don't want a perfect child, I want a happy, loving, giving, well rounded child who speaks the same words she sees her mom saying. Do the things you want your kids to do and say the things you want your kids to say and let them know you are NOT perfect and mess up. Live the life you want your kids to model! Great advice but not always easy. I do think that this can be made easier by having a support group and friends who share similiar values and beliefs.
Why do women carry the weight of the world on themselves and why do we expect so much from ourselves...why are we so hard on ourselves? I WILL DO BETTER BECAUSE I KNOW BETTER!!
If you haven't notice with my blog, I blog about life and often use this forum to figure things out in my mind and heart. It helps to write...to think...to read!
I want to live and be the best Christian, Mom, daughter, aunt, friend, teacher and woman I can be NOW, in this moment and this day. This very thing can often get lost in going through the motions in the every day because our days are filled with so many things to do. As I single mom, I start the day running and end the race glad to have had another day. What did I miss that I could have done better and are there days that go by that I could have gotten more done. Did my day count for something good and did I make a difference? Did I do the best I could?
My word for 2010 was BEST. I love where my journey has taken me and am excited about what God has in store for me in the days, months and year to come.
So as I contemplate my word for 2011, I know I want to live INTENTIONally with a purpose in this moment and this life. So much to do....HOPES and DREAMS to create and live a life that when is done, God says well done child. I want to write my bucket list and goals for the upcoming year. I want to get even more excited about life. I am thankful for everyday but that just isn't enough. I want to share and live a life with my 10 year old angel that says ANYTHING and EVERYTHING IS POSSIBLE and DREAMS DO COME TRUE...YOU MUST BELIEVE IT. IT IS NOT WHAT HAS HAPPENED IN THE PAST BUT WHAT YOU MAKE OF WHAT YOU HAVE TODAY. I honestly feel like we can teach our children valuable life lessons by how we react to our challenges more than ever. I have never been much for changes but we will loose our home after the first of the year. At first my pride was hurt, I was upset for letting myself get in this situation but I also know that I can teach my daughter that I will and can bounce back and have a life far better and richer. A home is not the walls we live in but the love that is on the inside and the memories we create. It doesn't really matter where we live but how we live and love others and we can do that from anywhere. Easy, no, but life is not always easy and we will be stronger together for surviving this and for allowing God to open new doors and a new life, one that is even better than we could ever imagine. Sometimes doors need to close in order for God to open other doors and so I say, good bye 2010 and hello 2011. I am ready to experience the JOY of giving and serving while loving and living the life God intended me to this day and those to come should I be blessed with the gift of life.
PS - I am on my way to visit some blogs that I enjoy and find uplifting...there are so many wonderful women in this world wanting to make a difference and are living with intention in wanting others to know they are not alone such as Melody Ross at The Brave Girls Club and 29DaysofGiving. Thank you to you both for opening your lives and stories and for wanting to give back so that others would know it is not our circumstances that define who we are but how we deal with those challenges and struggles.
Happy Holidays and a Happy Monday to you whereever you are in life....if you are dealing with challenges I hope you know that God loves you and you have a friend here if you need to talk! A bit of advice and something I love doing...if you will take the time to say one kind thing to someone, do one kind thing for someone else, you will find a bit of happiness that will start to put a sparkle back in your heart It truly does feel so good to do something for someone else and as I always say you never know when your smile or kind gesture will give someone else the HOPE they sop desparately need to keep going. It only takes on person to change the world as does one penny.
xoxoxo
Diana
Sunday, December 5, 2010
What Will Your Christmas Look Like in 2010?
So today in church with our youth, Pastor Blaine asked the kids and leaders what their Christmas would look like. I thought these were very interesting questions and again it made me think about what Christmas really means and how crazy the holidays have become with Black Friday and sales starting before Thanksgiving.
1. What would your centerpiece be at your table?
2. Who would be at your table?
3. What would you serve?
4. Would you continue or start your family traditions and if so what were your traditions?
I thought these were really great questions and it made me think of a tradition that we do that I didn't mention and it is why we celebrate this holiday and special day, the Birth of Jesus - we sing Happy Birthday to Jesus, candle and all. Are yours biblical in nature of all about the gifts and shopping? These questions were to get the kids to think about what is really important during the holidays. Our faith, family and friends and spending time with them enjoying what gifts we have and should cherish.
Have you ever thought about the Birth of Jesus, I mean really thought about it? Where Jesus was born, what He was born in, what He ws kept in, who He was born to and what this miracle really means back then and today. What will this holiday symbolize in the years to come?
1. Born in Bethelem
2. Born in a barn/manger
3. Placed and kept in a trough
4. Born to Mary and Jospeh
I am going to get back to my To Do List this week so that I can get all that I want to do in without forgetting as I sometimes do. I am excited about this and miss doing the prompt at SIStv that I used to do along with my thankful list which I keep in my Grateful Vase now. I love this but don't always get them written down like I should or would like to but maybe this prompt will help:-).
Have a magnificant Monday and if you are wanting to fill your cup up you can visit the The Brave Girls Club Blog and also 29 Gifts which is all about giving and doing for 29 days. I like doing deliberate acts of kindness and that is why I am wanting to get back to my list of things to do. I love random acts too. I honestly wish I could do both all day long, I love the feeling it leaves in my heart knowing that I have made someone else's day better. Most of the time it doesn't take much as you probably know. Make it great day and live your best life and make it count!!!
xoxoxo
BiT
1. What would your centerpiece be at your table?
2. Who would be at your table?
3. What would you serve?
4. Would you continue or start your family traditions and if so what were your traditions?
I thought these were really great questions and it made me think of a tradition that we do that I didn't mention and it is why we celebrate this holiday and special day, the Birth of Jesus - we sing Happy Birthday to Jesus, candle and all. Are yours biblical in nature of all about the gifts and shopping? These questions were to get the kids to think about what is really important during the holidays. Our faith, family and friends and spending time with them enjoying what gifts we have and should cherish.
Have you ever thought about the Birth of Jesus, I mean really thought about it? Where Jesus was born, what He was born in, what He ws kept in, who He was born to and what this miracle really means back then and today. What will this holiday symbolize in the years to come?
1. Born in Bethelem
2. Born in a barn/manger
3. Placed and kept in a trough
4. Born to Mary and Jospeh
I am going to get back to my To Do List this week so that I can get all that I want to do in without forgetting as I sometimes do. I am excited about this and miss doing the prompt at SIStv that I used to do along with my thankful list which I keep in my Grateful Vase now. I love this but don't always get them written down like I should or would like to but maybe this prompt will help:-).
Have a magnificant Monday and if you are wanting to fill your cup up you can visit the The Brave Girls Club Blog and also 29 Gifts which is all about giving and doing for 29 days. I like doing deliberate acts of kindness and that is why I am wanting to get back to my list of things to do. I love random acts too. I honestly wish I could do both all day long, I love the feeling it leaves in my heart knowing that I have made someone else's day better. Most of the time it doesn't take much as you probably know. Make it great day and live your best life and make it count!!!
xoxoxo
BiT
Saturday, December 4, 2010
Do You Believe in Santa??
I am sitting here with Demi and her 4 friends from school talking about Santa. Demi still believes and I always say if you believe then Santa will come. How about you, do you still BELIEVE? She is telling her friends that Santa is real and that she will always believe. I wish that she would always believe but I guess that is just not possible. We are watching Santa Baby 2 and so the story goes here at 844 Edgehill. I love that she believes and looks forward to what Santa and his helpers will do this year. Every year they seem to do something fun or crazy in our house. Stay tuned......
So what traditions do you have at this time of the year? We have several like putting out reindeer food, making a gingerbread house, hanging out stockings, going to see Santa at the mall so she can tell Santa what she wants this year (we did this last night and much to my surprise there was no one in line at 8:30pm, that was a first..so 5 10yr olds sitting on his lap while Santa talked about why kids don't need cell phones and all this high tech stuff...it was so cute!) This is where the real Santa is so it is a must we go see him here even if we see others around town and then we have our City Tree Lighting. This year we made it back to the Ft Worth City Tree Lighting and then lastly we always buy a special new ornament to symbolize something special for us this specific year. We are still trying to decide what it will be...would love to find an ornament with RAK or Random Act of Kindness or maybe even BELIEVE.....Miracles....I am thinking about this as I type. So I have some fun pictures to put up for the last few years so when I return after the PEE WEE football game and dropping off my Donna Park family of 4 I plan to get some fun photos up.
Lastly I hope you and yours still believe. Believe in Miracles and Santa. I think you are never to old and when I think of my childhood memories of Christmas I smile with the fondest of memories. My sweet innocent 10 year old has had more fun remembering and telling everyone even complete strangers that Rudolph and his reindeer friends all came in from the snow last year to have hot cocoa and to have a warm bath. You should have seen our bathroom :-).
EnJOY your SONday, hugs those you love, RAK someone just because and BELIEVE IN MIRACLES this holiday season. Know you are loved and doing a great job and that the holiday season can and will be the beginning of a new season for you. Thanks for making my day and stopping in....hope you staying plugged into The Brave Girls Blog and her month of MIRACLES.
xoxoxo
BiT
So what traditions do you have at this time of the year? We have several like putting out reindeer food, making a gingerbread house, hanging out stockings, going to see Santa at the mall so she can tell Santa what she wants this year (we did this last night and much to my surprise there was no one in line at 8:30pm, that was a first..so 5 10yr olds sitting on his lap while Santa talked about why kids don't need cell phones and all this high tech stuff...it was so cute!) This is where the real Santa is so it is a must we go see him here even if we see others around town and then we have our City Tree Lighting. This year we made it back to the Ft Worth City Tree Lighting and then lastly we always buy a special new ornament to symbolize something special for us this specific year. We are still trying to decide what it will be...would love to find an ornament with RAK or Random Act of Kindness or maybe even BELIEVE.....Miracles....I am thinking about this as I type. So I have some fun pictures to put up for the last few years so when I return after the PEE WEE football game and dropping off my Donna Park family of 4 I plan to get some fun photos up.
Lastly I hope you and yours still believe. Believe in Miracles and Santa. I think you are never to old and when I think of my childhood memories of Christmas I smile with the fondest of memories. My sweet innocent 10 year old has had more fun remembering and telling everyone even complete strangers that Rudolph and his reindeer friends all came in from the snow last year to have hot cocoa and to have a warm bath. You should have seen our bathroom :-).
EnJOY your SONday, hugs those you love, RAK someone just because and BELIEVE IN MIRACLES this holiday season. Know you are loved and doing a great job and that the holiday season can and will be the beginning of a new season for you. Thanks for making my day and stopping in....hope you staying plugged into The Brave Girls Blog and her month of MIRACLES.
xoxoxo
BiT
Thursday, December 2, 2010
The Gift of Life.......
Today I received some news that just sent chills through me. A year ago I signed up to be a bone marrow donor. It has only been a couple of years ago that my sweet 2 yr old nephew was diagnosed with cancer. As many of you know he is in remission and doing well. He has a long road to endure as they try to make life better for him daily due to losing his eyesight in one eye and having major light sensitivity which affects him in every way from school lights to being outdoors to enjoy a sunny and nice day. So my sister invited me to join to become a donor when Devin had to have his bones tested for cancer. Just within the last 2 weeks I had wondered this about why I hadn't heard from them and or if I would? Again I believe this was a whisper from God for this day!
So this morning I opened my front door and found a package from FedEx. Yes it was from DKMS Americas stating I was a match for a specific patient. The letter states that normally happens less than 1 %. It made me think there could be no greater gift this holiday season then the gift of life. There is still blood testing to be done and then a physical but I am hopeful that I will be a good match for this 32 year old male with leukemia.
I would love to encourage you today to consider this gift to someone in need. You can contact me if you are interested in becoming a donor. There is no cost to become a donor but they do accept donations. Please don't let the cost keep you from doing this or at least thinking about this as maybe one of your RAKs for the month. They have ways to get around the cost as they look for donors to save lives throughout the world. All I had to do was a swab through the mail. That simple!
I hope you had a great Thursday and are taking part in The Brave Girls Club and their push for words of kindness for the holiday season. We are and are having a blast finding fun ways to perform DACKs. I love Random Acts of Kindess and Deliberate Acts of Compassion and Kindness. I love that my 10 year continues to enjoy these acts and putting smiles on the least expecting of people in our lives in one way or the other. Did I mention she baked 8 dozen cookies to share with many on Day 1? It was her first try at cooking anything and I can tell you her cookies were good! Day 2, she shared more cookies with her teachers who are so awesome and I found a couple of ways to share a meal and a conversation with someone I might not have otherwise and a friend who I know can use a break being a single mom while her hubby is in Afghanistan. It makes me smile just thinking about what I can do tomorrow on a limited budget. I think that is half the fun and I am always up for a challenge and some fun. What about you? Wanna join in and make the world better everyday you are here? I hope you will think about becoming a donor and also a WOMAN who thinks she can make a difference one lady at a time.
I also wanted to share that I am doing a December daily inspired by Ali Edwards to document our RAKs and DAKs for this month. It will be a collaboration from Demi and I together to document our journey this holiday season.
Have a wonderful and fun Friday. I am looking forward to my training for my new position and also to have some 10 year olds here for a slumber party of sorts. I am looking forward to all the giggles and laughter tomorrow. I also wanted to share a surprise RAK given to me yesterday. We were invited to photo shoot on Saturday with photos and a DVD. I haven't had a professional photo of Demi and I since 2002. I am thrilled and so thankful that this family has offered to us this holiday season.
So in closing, I am always thankful for life and God's continued blessings but am going to try and see how everyday happenings and miracles surround us if we are looking and open to them. A powerful thought by Melody Ross at www.thebravegirlsbclub.com/blog. Thanks MR for being so open with your inner thoughts and feelings and for wanting to have a safe place for Brave Girls all around the world to come to for some encouragement and motivation to "live their best lives" by doing simple things everyday.
xoxoxo
BiT
So this morning I opened my front door and found a package from FedEx. Yes it was from DKMS Americas stating I was a match for a specific patient. The letter states that normally happens less than 1 %. It made me think there could be no greater gift this holiday season then the gift of life. There is still blood testing to be done and then a physical but I am hopeful that I will be a good match for this 32 year old male with leukemia.
I would love to encourage you today to consider this gift to someone in need. You can contact me if you are interested in becoming a donor. There is no cost to become a donor but they do accept donations. Please don't let the cost keep you from doing this or at least thinking about this as maybe one of your RAKs for the month. They have ways to get around the cost as they look for donors to save lives throughout the world. All I had to do was a swab through the mail. That simple!
I hope you had a great Thursday and are taking part in The Brave Girls Club and their push for words of kindness for the holiday season. We are and are having a blast finding fun ways to perform DACKs. I love Random Acts of Kindess and Deliberate Acts of Compassion and Kindness. I love that my 10 year continues to enjoy these acts and putting smiles on the least expecting of people in our lives in one way or the other. Did I mention she baked 8 dozen cookies to share with many on Day 1? It was her first try at cooking anything and I can tell you her cookies were good! Day 2, she shared more cookies with her teachers who are so awesome and I found a couple of ways to share a meal and a conversation with someone I might not have otherwise and a friend who I know can use a break being a single mom while her hubby is in Afghanistan. It makes me smile just thinking about what I can do tomorrow on a limited budget. I think that is half the fun and I am always up for a challenge and some fun. What about you? Wanna join in and make the world better everyday you are here? I hope you will think about becoming a donor and also a WOMAN who thinks she can make a difference one lady at a time.
I also wanted to share that I am doing a December daily inspired by Ali Edwards to document our RAKs and DAKs for this month. It will be a collaboration from Demi and I together to document our journey this holiday season.
Have a wonderful and fun Friday. I am looking forward to my training for my new position and also to have some 10 year olds here for a slumber party of sorts. I am looking forward to all the giggles and laughter tomorrow. I also wanted to share a surprise RAK given to me yesterday. We were invited to photo shoot on Saturday with photos and a DVD. I haven't had a professional photo of Demi and I since 2002. I am thrilled and so thankful that this family has offered to us this holiday season.
So in closing, I am always thankful for life and God's continued blessings but am going to try and see how everyday happenings and miracles surround us if we are looking and open to them. A powerful thought by Melody Ross at www.thebravegirlsbclub.com/blog. Thanks MR for being so open with your inner thoughts and feelings and for wanting to have a safe place for Brave Girls all around the world to come to for some encouragement and motivation to "live their best lives" by doing simple things everyday.
xoxoxo
BiT
Sunday, November 28, 2010
November Christmas by Hallmark.(short post)
Just wanted to say that if you didn't get an opportunity to see this movie tonight that it is so worth buying and watching as a family.
In summary, it is about how a young girl and her family dealt with a life strengthening situation. It was so awesome to see how neighbors and a community rallied behind to help this family. I will say that what I took away from this movie is that where there is love there is hope. Isn't that so true?
So awesome and another amazing movie made by Hallmark. You can buy it at http://www.hallmark.com/ or at a local christian store such as The Family Christian and Lifeway Stores.
Have a magnificant Monday,
BiT
In summary, it is about how a young girl and her family dealt with a life strengthening situation. It was so awesome to see how neighbors and a community rallied behind to help this family. I will say that what I took away from this movie is that where there is love there is hope. Isn't that so true?
So awesome and another amazing movie made by Hallmark. You can buy it at http://www.hallmark.com/ or at a local christian store such as The Family Christian and Lifeway Stores.
Have a magnificant Monday,
BiT
Christmas Wishes for 2010
I hope you had a wonderful Thanksgiving Holiday! I had one of the best ever and the only thing that could have made it better was for my sister in NC to be here with us with her family of 9 and my nephew who is in the Navy training program. We are so blessed and my heart is full of JOY!
My Christmas wishes this year are to help my sister get a new van and her bills paid off from Devin's cancer treatments. I wish I could figure out how to do so. The wheels are spinning and I have some ideas but would welcome any that my good friends would have that would lighten the load. My sister is the sweetest woman you will ever meet. Married a wonderful man she had known for 8 weeks back in '88 and 22 years later they have 7 children from heaven. She would never ask for help and or a penny and never complains but the road has been difficult and they have so much more they have to figure out with Devin and his eyes where he had the scarcoma. I would just like to see her happy and smiling and really feel the JOY in her heart. She does so much for everyone even when her own heart was in pain trying to understand all of this and why God would allow this to happen. She is in Matthews, NC which is a suburb of Charlotte.
So tonight I start my adventure trying to help my sister and her family. My brother in law is working 2 jobs right now and is not at home to help during the day. Again he would never complain and is a man of God with the most giving heart who would give you the shirt off his back as would my sister.
I am grateful that a non-profit helps them during the holidays but if it were up to my sister she would not take the help. I have to say that for the kids I am happy she does. They have never asked for much as kids but I know they really love getting a few things as do all kids.
Lastly I wasn't able to get out today to do my RAKS but am backing cookies here with Demi to give away tomorrow with little notes. I am hoping to drop off a few ATC cards with bible verses to some unexpecting friends/strangers. I can't wait!!!
Have a wonderful and fun week and remember to let those you LOVE know it.....enjoy every waking moment!!
xoxoxo
Diana aka BiT
My Christmas wishes this year are to help my sister get a new van and her bills paid off from Devin's cancer treatments. I wish I could figure out how to do so. The wheels are spinning and I have some ideas but would welcome any that my good friends would have that would lighten the load. My sister is the sweetest woman you will ever meet. Married a wonderful man she had known for 8 weeks back in '88 and 22 years later they have 7 children from heaven. She would never ask for help and or a penny and never complains but the road has been difficult and they have so much more they have to figure out with Devin and his eyes where he had the scarcoma. I would just like to see her happy and smiling and really feel the JOY in her heart. She does so much for everyone even when her own heart was in pain trying to understand all of this and why God would allow this to happen. She is in Matthews, NC which is a suburb of Charlotte.
So tonight I start my adventure trying to help my sister and her family. My brother in law is working 2 jobs right now and is not at home to help during the day. Again he would never complain and is a man of God with the most giving heart who would give you the shirt off his back as would my sister.
I am grateful that a non-profit helps them during the holidays but if it were up to my sister she would not take the help. I have to say that for the kids I am happy she does. They have never asked for much as kids but I know they really love getting a few things as do all kids.
Lastly I wasn't able to get out today to do my RAKS but am backing cookies here with Demi to give away tomorrow with little notes. I am hoping to drop off a few ATC cards with bible verses to some unexpecting friends/strangers. I can't wait!!!
Have a wonderful and fun week and remember to let those you LOVE know it.....enjoy every waking moment!!
xoxoxo
Diana aka BiT
Saturday, November 27, 2010
I'm Going to Be An Aunt Again....
On top of being thankful for so much on Thanksgiving, I found out my younger sister, Sheri is expecting her second child in late July of 2011. That will be 14 grandchildren for my mom and neices and nephews in total. I am so excited for her and her husband. What is so awesome is that up until 3 or 4 years ago they were never going to have children. Can I just say how much her life has been blessed by having Brylee last year and how much joy she has brought us too!
I will post some pictures tomorrow of the outfit she had made for Brylee to wear into my moms to share her good news.
It has been so wonderful to have a few days off this week. It has been wonderful, Demi has spent the night with her aunt Sheri a couple of nights and we went to see the Ft Worth Parade of Lights last night which was so nice and although cool made for a wonderful evening for Bry to see Santa Clause. So my mom called me today while I was watching The Passion for the first time to say that Demi was feeling sick. (I was thinking it was only a matter of time since her best friends brothers have been throwing up all week). I am hoping she will be feeling well tomorrow and that it bypasses me and the rest of the family.
Anyway I am hoping you too have been enjoying your Thanksgiving weekend as much as we have been this year. We are going to be dropping off some nice notes to those we are grateful for in our local area like the "real" Santa at our mall just to say thanks. (Demi just knows this is the real one and he is great so we thought it would be nice to let him know how much we appreciate him showing up and making so many wishes come true for so many kids for at least the past 10 years.) I am going to do the challenge over at The Brave Girls Club this week by doing several different things. That is if we are all back to good health.
Have a wonderful Sonday and remember God loves you and made you special for His purpose. I hope you feel the love and joy meant for you and yours.
PS - I am going to be back tomorrow to highlight some special friends that are doing wonderful things to make the world a better place. If you know of any, please share them with us. I love finding new ladies sharing love in their special ways.
xoxoxo
BiT
I will post some pictures tomorrow of the outfit she had made for Brylee to wear into my moms to share her good news.
It has been so wonderful to have a few days off this week. It has been wonderful, Demi has spent the night with her aunt Sheri a couple of nights and we went to see the Ft Worth Parade of Lights last night which was so nice and although cool made for a wonderful evening for Bry to see Santa Clause. So my mom called me today while I was watching The Passion for the first time to say that Demi was feeling sick. (I was thinking it was only a matter of time since her best friends brothers have been throwing up all week). I am hoping she will be feeling well tomorrow and that it bypasses me and the rest of the family.
Anyway I am hoping you too have been enjoying your Thanksgiving weekend as much as we have been this year. We are going to be dropping off some nice notes to those we are grateful for in our local area like the "real" Santa at our mall just to say thanks. (Demi just knows this is the real one and he is great so we thought it would be nice to let him know how much we appreciate him showing up and making so many wishes come true for so many kids for at least the past 10 years.) I am going to do the challenge over at The Brave Girls Club this week by doing several different things. That is if we are all back to good health.
Have a wonderful Sonday and remember God loves you and made you special for His purpose. I hope you feel the love and joy meant for you and yours.
PS - I am going to be back tomorrow to highlight some special friends that are doing wonderful things to make the world a better place. If you know of any, please share them with us. I love finding new ladies sharing love in their special ways.
xoxoxo
BiT
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
Making The World A Better Place with Kindness and Compassion....(The Brave Girls Club Challenge)
Happy Pre-Thanksgiving today. I love this time for so many reasons and am so blessed to have my faith, family and friends to share our life and holidays with this year. Scrapbooking has opened my eyes to the world around me. I love that I am leaving a legacy for my own daughter and her family both with pictures and scrapbooking pages but also see the world in a different way. I see fall colors different, families playing together, everyday life outings through the lense of my heart to be shown through pictures developed. I know some of this is age too and with my FAITH I am so thankful for everyday and the gift of life.
I love the idea behind Melody Ross' blog, The Brave Girls Club which you can read and visit there http://bravegirlsclub.com/blog/?p=1681&cpage=1#comment-6858 . She has a challenge for the holiday weekend and a video to watch encouraging others to be kind this holiday season. I am so passionate about this and hope you will join in the fun and see how your own life will be transformed while bringing smiles and joy to others.
I love people and want everyone to live a life full of JOY that is long lasting even through the challenging times with hope and peace. I wish that I could make that happen but know that is not possible. So I pray and pray a lot. Pray often, randomly with hopes that God will continue to answer prayers according to His will and that He will use me as often and much as He sees fit. I get excited just thinking about it and look forward to those he places in front of me daily. I dont write these things to put myself in the spotlight but to share my thoughts and my ways of dealing with my most inner thoughts.
If you have any great ideas on RAKS and wonderful ways of bringing JOY to someone/family today will you please share that with me here. I hope you will find your own JOY today and this Thanksgiving weekend.
xoxoxo
BiT aka Diana
I love the idea behind Melody Ross' blog, The Brave Girls Club which you can read and visit there http://bravegirlsclub.com/blog/?p=1681&cpage=1#comment-6858 . She has a challenge for the holiday weekend and a video to watch encouraging others to be kind this holiday season. I am so passionate about this and hope you will join in the fun and see how your own life will be transformed while bringing smiles and joy to others.
I love people and want everyone to live a life full of JOY that is long lasting even through the challenging times with hope and peace. I wish that I could make that happen but know that is not possible. So I pray and pray a lot. Pray often, randomly with hopes that God will continue to answer prayers according to His will and that He will use me as often and much as He sees fit. I get excited just thinking about it and look forward to those he places in front of me daily. I dont write these things to put myself in the spotlight but to share my thoughts and my ways of dealing with my most inner thoughts.
If you have any great ideas on RAKS and wonderful ways of bringing JOY to someone/family today will you please share that with me here. I hope you will find your own JOY today and this Thanksgiving weekend.
xoxoxo
BiT aka Diana
Monday, November 22, 2010
I can do all things through....
Christ who strengthens me - Phil 4:13. This by far is one of my favorite bible verses and without my faith and God in my life I honestly cannot imagine where I would be. Life is hard enough and I am so thankful in this time of Thanksgiving for answered prayers which came today in the form of two different job offers. I didn't see them coming but am so happy that some prayers are being answered especially after my alarm didn't go off. Anyway just wanted to give credit where credit is due today.
Today it was 80 degrees and a beautiful day here in Texas. God's beauty is everywhere and the changing of tree colors is beyond words at my age. I only wish the weather would stay like this but we are due for a very cold Thanksgiving and temps below 30.
I am looking forward to spending time this week with loved ones counting our many blessings and His protection. What traditions do you have on this special day? What are your fondest memories growing up? What do you want your children to remember about this day? I want my daughter to be grateful and thankful everyday for her faith, family and friends and to remember that even at her age that everyday is a gift and it is up to God's children to share his love with others. That is takes so little to make the world a better place and even at the tender age of 10 she cand do so much to make the world a better place. She is amazing and I am so proud of who she is and the heart she has today when we live in a fallen world. Did I mention she tried out for the spelling bee and was one of 20 to make it for her school. So proud and happy for her! So one of my fond memories of Thanksgiving was watching Charlie Browns specials and also watching the Macy Parade.
One more day of school and work and then it is 4 days off to relax and enjoy my family. Turkey, games, Dallas football and time to be thankful for the gift of life as it is today.
Have a great week and thanks for stopping by today, I have some great pictures to share this week but have to make the images smaller in order to show here so hopefully in the next 24 hours I will have some fun and cute pictures of the last couple of weeks.
Diana
xoxoxo
Today it was 80 degrees and a beautiful day here in Texas. God's beauty is everywhere and the changing of tree colors is beyond words at my age. I only wish the weather would stay like this but we are due for a very cold Thanksgiving and temps below 30.
I am looking forward to spending time this week with loved ones counting our many blessings and His protection. What traditions do you have on this special day? What are your fondest memories growing up? What do you want your children to remember about this day? I want my daughter to be grateful and thankful everyday for her faith, family and friends and to remember that even at her age that everyday is a gift and it is up to God's children to share his love with others. That is takes so little to make the world a better place and even at the tender age of 10 she cand do so much to make the world a better place. She is amazing and I am so proud of who she is and the heart she has today when we live in a fallen world. Did I mention she tried out for the spelling bee and was one of 20 to make it for her school. So proud and happy for her! So one of my fond memories of Thanksgiving was watching Charlie Browns specials and also watching the Macy Parade.
One more day of school and work and then it is 4 days off to relax and enjoy my family. Turkey, games, Dallas football and time to be thankful for the gift of life as it is today.
Have a great week and thanks for stopping by today, I have some great pictures to share this week but have to make the images smaller in order to show here so hopefully in the next 24 hours I will have some fun and cute pictures of the last couple of weeks.
Diana
xoxoxo
Saturday, November 6, 2010
A Chance to Win an Awesome RAK....(Deadline November 6th)
I was visitng my friend Julie :-))))) on her blog and found a link for Scrapbook Calls and Contest and this is where I ended up early this morning - http://theoriginalscrapgal.blogspot.com/2010/10/canvas-mini.html.
I love all of their November Challenges and if you want to become a follower and post this you have an opportunity to win an awesome RAK they are offering up...but you need to hurry, the deadline is Nov 6th.
xoxoxo
I love all of their November Challenges and if you want to become a follower and post this you have an opportunity to win an awesome RAK they are offering up...but you need to hurry, the deadline is Nov 6th.
xoxoxo
Friday, November 5, 2010
There Are So Many Wonderful People In This World.....
Dear Friends,
It warms my heart to know there are so many good people in the world...I see and work with so many of them everyday. Today was one of those days. I have often felt like I was one of few in my circle that have had the financial struggles I have had over the past 2 years. What I found amazing is that 2 wonderful christian teachers I work for are struggling financially in different ways because their marital situation is different then mine but were in tears because of my situation. It brings me so much comfort and joy knowing that despite their own struggles they still find the time to pray for us and to share their stories. As human beings don't we all want to be loved and do well by our children and families? I was aware of one of them because she was actually on The Undercover Boss a few weeks ago and when I watched the show. When I found out about her story it brought tears to my eyes for 2 reasons. I love that show because they have helped out so many wonderful people and this friend who is a woman, wife, teacher, friend is such a wonderful person. It hurts to see those you love hurting and worried about loosing everything they have worked so hard for...so my message today is simple.
Please try to remember that behind every face there is always more than the outer features. That there are so many people those we know and don't know that are facing the most challenging times ever. I wish we could all be more compassionate and sympathetic to everyone we encounter. To put our own moods aside for just one day. To reach out to someone else who may be hurting. To lend a hand to a friend or stranger if you can see they need a hug or help. Why can't we each do a little more to make the world a better place everyday?
So my challenge to you is to find time to help at least one person this weekend, to make the world a little brighter and happier because you/I were blessed with another day. Thank those who have been there for you and hug your kids just because.....you love them!!! Maybe it is time to do something for YOU today. I also know that as moms and women we don't take the time to pamper ourselves after doing all that we do each and every day. So you have my permission to do that do. If you do please share with me what you do for you and for someone else. I love the randomness of giving and doing for others and am always looking for fun and new ways to do so.
Happy Anniversary to my mom and dad. Today they would have been married 49 years. My dad passed away 12 years ago but I still cherish this day and feel for my mom who still misses him so much. I was blessed to have 2 parents who loved and worked so hard so that we could have the childhood we did. So thankful they were set up on a blind date 50 years ago by 2 friends who cared enough about them both to do so. One act resulted in a marraige of 37 years, 4 kids and 13 grandchildren.
Happy Birthday to Aunt RaRa in SA. We are hoping she has the best birthday weekend ever and wish we were going to be there with them to celebrate her special day today!
Diana
It warms my heart to know there are so many good people in the world...I see and work with so many of them everyday. Today was one of those days. I have often felt like I was one of few in my circle that have had the financial struggles I have had over the past 2 years. What I found amazing is that 2 wonderful christian teachers I work for are struggling financially in different ways because their marital situation is different then mine but were in tears because of my situation. It brings me so much comfort and joy knowing that despite their own struggles they still find the time to pray for us and to share their stories. As human beings don't we all want to be loved and do well by our children and families? I was aware of one of them because she was actually on The Undercover Boss a few weeks ago and when I watched the show. When I found out about her story it brought tears to my eyes for 2 reasons. I love that show because they have helped out so many wonderful people and this friend who is a woman, wife, teacher, friend is such a wonderful person. It hurts to see those you love hurting and worried about loosing everything they have worked so hard for...so my message today is simple.
Please try to remember that behind every face there is always more than the outer features. That there are so many people those we know and don't know that are facing the most challenging times ever. I wish we could all be more compassionate and sympathetic to everyone we encounter. To put our own moods aside for just one day. To reach out to someone else who may be hurting. To lend a hand to a friend or stranger if you can see they need a hug or help. Why can't we each do a little more to make the world a better place everyday?
So my challenge to you is to find time to help at least one person this weekend, to make the world a little brighter and happier because you/I were blessed with another day. Thank those who have been there for you and hug your kids just because.....you love them!!! Maybe it is time to do something for YOU today. I also know that as moms and women we don't take the time to pamper ourselves after doing all that we do each and every day. So you have my permission to do that do. If you do please share with me what you do for you and for someone else. I love the randomness of giving and doing for others and am always looking for fun and new ways to do so.
Happy Anniversary to my mom and dad. Today they would have been married 49 years. My dad passed away 12 years ago but I still cherish this day and feel for my mom who still misses him so much. I was blessed to have 2 parents who loved and worked so hard so that we could have the childhood we did. So thankful they were set up on a blind date 50 years ago by 2 friends who cared enough about them both to do so. One act resulted in a marraige of 37 years, 4 kids and 13 grandchildren.
Happy Birthday to Aunt RaRa in SA. We are hoping she has the best birthday weekend ever and wish we were going to be there with them to celebrate her special day today!
Diana
Tuesday, November 2, 2010
RAKS, Voting and Thankful Tuesday
Happy Tuesday to you!
I hope you had a great day. Today is all about thankful Tuesday, RAKS and voting.
To begin with I wanted to share with you what my daughter and I do almost daily regarding being thankful and having a thankful heart. (I need to take a picture to show you but you ladies can imagine a simple flower vase with our thankful notes). Each night before going to bed we write at least three things or people we are thankful for that day. I love beginning and ending our day with a grateful heart. Today Joyce Meyer was talking about how we can wear the nicest clothes each day but if our hearts are not in the right place that being the best dressed would not mean much and that others would see through your outfit.
So today I am thankful for so much but will give you my short list to include RAKS and Voting.
For those of you who know me know that I love RAKS and finding opportunities to show others kindness, sometimes random and sometimes purposeful or as I like to think, FAITH IN ACTION. This week my dd's challenge from her church school is finding something nice to do for someone each day this week. I love this idea and love that she is not only learning but acting and doing. As a parent in today's society, I hope that she will see how much joy it can bring someone else by doing the little things. I want her to know that life is so much more than herself. I wish I had learned that earlier...not that my mother didn't teach me or show me that but I guess I was a slow learner to say the least. (I just learned to agree with my mom too, no more trying to be RIGHT even when I am, why because it just isn't that big of a thing, AMAZING huh?) I still want to be like my mom when I grow up and I am 47, my mom is one of the most amazing and giving woman I have ever known. So how about you, can you find the time for one RAK today? I hope so....I am going to get back to doing my one RAK daily because it takes so little time and so little money. Just think if we each did one RAK daily how much better a world this would be.....smiling as I think about it!
So despite there being some personal things going on in my life regarding finances and career, it was an overall great day. I voted today and was thankful that we are able to vote for those we feel will make decisions on our behalf that share the same life values that I do. It truly is an honor to be able to vote. I didn't start voting until I was 36 again wishing I had started earlier but am thankful I have been doing that since then. A pretty funny thing happened last week. My daughter came home and said she had accidently voted for Rick Perry when she wanted to vote for Bill White. I asked why she said that and she said that Bill White is for Texas. That is his slogan and what he is running his campaign on. I just love children and how innocent they are in every way. Love that they have started doing mock voting in elementary schools to so that our children know the importance of doing that as well.
Today I subbed and you will never believe what I did? I was the Band Director :-). Now you will know that I don't know one thing about instruments but I can honestly say I learned a lot today and was impressed with how well the kids in our jr high played for only being there for 12 weeks. Have I mentioned how much I love subbing, I just wish it paid more. If it did and it paid for holidays and insurance, I would do this everyday! I love it that much! I love the change of pace and I love having the opportunity to make a difference daily with our precious children who we all want to succeed. I don't think there is anything that I have taught and or a classroom I haven't subbed for...again so thankful for working with so many wonderful students, teachers and staff at 20 plus schools in our district.
I hope you had a terrific Tuesday and that you continue to be blessed this week. Thanks for stopping by this week and don't forget to find the time to make someone else's day better to include your own by a simple RAK.
PS - I will back shortly to post some more pics from the last few weeks. Here is Demi with her best friend Alyssa at our local high school football game as a Mini-rette which is the younger version of our Raiderettes. Love their shirts, Pretty in Pink to go along with Cancer Prevention month in October not to mention how cute these two are with their friends.
xoxoxo
Diana
I hope you had a great day. Today is all about thankful Tuesday, RAKS and voting.
To begin with I wanted to share with you what my daughter and I do almost daily regarding being thankful and having a thankful heart. (I need to take a picture to show you but you ladies can imagine a simple flower vase with our thankful notes). Each night before going to bed we write at least three things or people we are thankful for that day. I love beginning and ending our day with a grateful heart. Today Joyce Meyer was talking about how we can wear the nicest clothes each day but if our hearts are not in the right place that being the best dressed would not mean much and that others would see through your outfit.
So today I am thankful for so much but will give you my short list to include RAKS and Voting.
For those of you who know me know that I love RAKS and finding opportunities to show others kindness, sometimes random and sometimes purposeful or as I like to think, FAITH IN ACTION. This week my dd's challenge from her church school is finding something nice to do for someone each day this week. I love this idea and love that she is not only learning but acting and doing. As a parent in today's society, I hope that she will see how much joy it can bring someone else by doing the little things. I want her to know that life is so much more than herself. I wish I had learned that earlier...not that my mother didn't teach me or show me that but I guess I was a slow learner to say the least. (I just learned to agree with my mom too, no more trying to be RIGHT even when I am, why because it just isn't that big of a thing, AMAZING huh?) I still want to be like my mom when I grow up and I am 47, my mom is one of the most amazing and giving woman I have ever known. So how about you, can you find the time for one RAK today? I hope so....I am going to get back to doing my one RAK daily because it takes so little time and so little money. Just think if we each did one RAK daily how much better a world this would be.....smiling as I think about it!
So despite there being some personal things going on in my life regarding finances and career, it was an overall great day. I voted today and was thankful that we are able to vote for those we feel will make decisions on our behalf that share the same life values that I do. It truly is an honor to be able to vote. I didn't start voting until I was 36 again wishing I had started earlier but am thankful I have been doing that since then. A pretty funny thing happened last week. My daughter came home and said she had accidently voted for Rick Perry when she wanted to vote for Bill White. I asked why she said that and she said that Bill White is for Texas. That is his slogan and what he is running his campaign on. I just love children and how innocent they are in every way. Love that they have started doing mock voting in elementary schools to so that our children know the importance of doing that as well.
Today I subbed and you will never believe what I did? I was the Band Director :-). Now you will know that I don't know one thing about instruments but I can honestly say I learned a lot today and was impressed with how well the kids in our jr high played for only being there for 12 weeks. Have I mentioned how much I love subbing, I just wish it paid more. If it did and it paid for holidays and insurance, I would do this everyday! I love it that much! I love the change of pace and I love having the opportunity to make a difference daily with our precious children who we all want to succeed. I don't think there is anything that I have taught and or a classroom I haven't subbed for...again so thankful for working with so many wonderful students, teachers and staff at 20 plus schools in our district.
I hope you had a terrific Tuesday and that you continue to be blessed this week. Thanks for stopping by this week and don't forget to find the time to make someone else's day better to include your own by a simple RAK.
PS - I will back shortly to post some more pics from the last few weeks. Here is Demi with her best friend Alyssa at our local high school football game as a Mini-rette which is the younger version of our Raiderettes. Love their shirts, Pretty in Pink to go along with Cancer Prevention month in October not to mention how cute these two are with their friends.
xoxoxo
Diana
Sunday, October 31, 2010
A Perfect Fall Day includes......
1. Church and a great message about being on the UNDEFEATED TEAM, His Team.
2. Layouts completed for a couple of challenge blogs to include The Candy Shop at http://www.candyshoppedesigns.blogspot.com/ with a prize from BlueMoon Scrapbooking at http://www.bluemoonscrapbooking.com/ . Here is my layout to include the sketch flipped with my number theme for Halloween and Oct 31st.
3. Fantasy Football with women in the scrapbooking world and friends that I met on SIStv almost 3 years ago and did I say women who know their sports...so FUN!
4. The Texas Rangers and the game tonight, hopefully winning 2 in a row to tie up the World Series. Got my claws and antlers out for speed and strength. I BELIEVE.
5. My boo-tiful Demi dressing up as a military woman honoring the military who are serving today and in the past. I love the theme her 5th grade had this year doing this since her best friend's dad is currently stationed in Afghanistan for a year. Here is to all of those HEROS from the past to include Demi's grandpas, my cousin who served, my nephew who just joined the Navy this week and to Matt whom we love and miss dearly.
6. Trick or Treating with our lil angel, Brylee in a few hours. We can't wait!!
7. The best fall weather ever....
So here is to my perfect fall day and here is to yours!!
xoxoxo
BiT
3. Fantasy Football with women in the scrapbooking world and friends that I met on SIStv almost 3 years ago and did I say women who know their sports...so FUN!
4. The Texas Rangers and the game tonight, hopefully winning 2 in a row to tie up the World Series. Got my claws and antlers out for speed and strength. I BELIEVE.
5. My boo-tiful Demi dressing up as a military woman honoring the military who are serving today and in the past. I love the theme her 5th grade had this year doing this since her best friend's dad is currently stationed in Afghanistan for a year. Here is to all of those HEROS from the past to include Demi's grandpas, my cousin who served, my nephew who just joined the Navy this week and to Matt whom we love and miss dearly.
6. Trick or Treating with our lil angel, Brylee in a few hours. We can't wait!!
7. The best fall weather ever....
So here is to my perfect fall day and here is to yours!!
xoxoxo
BiT
Saturday, October 30, 2010
Scrapbooking and Baseball = One Happy Mama
I found the cutest scrapbooking blog today and want to share it with you as well. You can go to http://candyshoppedesigns.blogspot.com/ and see the sketch challenge they have up which ends tomorrow. The prize that is being offered up is from http://www.bluemoonscrapbooking.com/. I hope you will venture over to check out all the fun and to see just how lovely this blog is today.
I will be posting my layout for the sketch shortly. Did I mention how good it feels to be scrapbooking today?
And to top it off our TEXAS Rangers will play again at 5:30pm today. We are all hopeful they will go BIG with a WIN at home tonight. Either way I just hope they play well and have fun doing so.
Happy Pre-Halloween today,
BiT
I will be posting my layout for the sketch shortly. Did I mention how good it feels to be scrapbooking today?
And to top it off our TEXAS Rangers will play again at 5:30pm today. We are all hopeful they will go BIG with a WIN at home tonight. Either way I just hope they play well and have fun doing so.
Happy Pre-Halloween today,
BiT
Saturday, October 23, 2010
TEXAS RANGERS - World Series Here We Come....
I woke today to the wonderful news that our beloved Texas Rangers beat the NY Yankees 6-1 last night and are on their way to the World Series next week. The Metroplex could not be happier for so many awesome men and Nolan Ryan.
CONGRATS RANGERS!!!!
Now if our Dallas Cowboys could pull off a win this weekend against the NY Giants. This game be tougher than the game last night but I am hopeful our Cowboys can pull off a win and will get back on track for what was supposed to be an awesome season for them. I know Tony Romo can do it!
So today I am going to be creating some layouts for some challenges going on over at http://www.pencillines.com/ all week as they celebrate their 4th birthday. They are giving away some awesome prizes and have some great sketches which the DT pulled up from the past 4 years. Go check it out, you will be amazed at the inspiration over there.
Hopefully I will be back to post some pictures from the past several weeks and some layouts that I create today. It has been so long so it will feel wonderful to actually create something today.
I will leave you with a list of what I am thankful for on this rainy Saturday:
1. The gift of life and another day to enjoy God's simple pleasures.
2. My faith and the Bible
3. Being a mom to the most awesome and loving 10 year old (Demi, I love you!)
4. Starting over
5. Family and friends who care and a surprise visit this week from my aunt in MD
6. Compassion
7. Work
8. Sinus meds/headache - living in TX with ragweed and pollen can make life more challenging :-)
9. Transportation
10.The will and desire to hold on and keep going even when I don't feel like and knowing the God has plans for my future.
Make it a great day and remember to hug your children and let those you love know it. Find time to make someone else's life better with a random act of kindness!
xoxoxo
Diana
CONGRATS RANGERS!!!!
Now if our Dallas Cowboys could pull off a win this weekend against the NY Giants. This game be tougher than the game last night but I am hopeful our Cowboys can pull off a win and will get back on track for what was supposed to be an awesome season for them. I know Tony Romo can do it!
So today I am going to be creating some layouts for some challenges going on over at http://www.pencillines.com/ all week as they celebrate their 4th birthday. They are giving away some awesome prizes and have some great sketches which the DT pulled up from the past 4 years. Go check it out, you will be amazed at the inspiration over there.
Hopefully I will be back to post some pictures from the past several weeks and some layouts that I create today. It has been so long so it will feel wonderful to actually create something today.
I will leave you with a list of what I am thankful for on this rainy Saturday:
1. The gift of life and another day to enjoy God's simple pleasures.
2. My faith and the Bible
3. Being a mom to the most awesome and loving 10 year old (Demi, I love you!)
4. Starting over
5. Family and friends who care and a surprise visit this week from my aunt in MD
6. Compassion
7. Work
8. Sinus meds/headache - living in TX with ragweed and pollen can make life more challenging :-)
9. Transportation
10.The will and desire to hold on and keep going even when I don't feel like and knowing the God has plans for my future.
Make it a great day and remember to hug your children and let those you love know it. Find time to make someone else's life better with a random act of kindness!
xoxoxo
Diana
Friday, August 20, 2010
Letters to God....
Wow. what a great movie and one that brought tears for reasons I was not expecting. Here is a boy that in the midst of fighting for his life is writing letters to God praying for his loved ones, neighbor, school mates, family, neighbors..not himself but others!
Did you see it yet? I hope you will be open to renting it or even buying it this week.
It is about a yong boy who is battling cancer which affects so many of us, directly and indirectly. It is about his life and being God's warrior selected by God to share His love. He writes letters to God about how he is feeling or asking God to make someone else's life better and there isnt anyone that isn't touched by his presence.
It's a good one, let me know what you think if you decide to watch it.
Thursday was interesting and good. I made a call to a retirement center here in our local area. I took Demi with me and after calling on this facility for business on Monday decided to go back today to visit my cousin's wife grandmother whom we haven't seen in a while. Today was bingo day. I found it interesting that we were hoping to bless someone else's day with a surprise visit only to be blessed by going and visiting with several of the residents. Demi had a blast playing bingo with about 20 seniors. I think it is so important for kids to give back to their communities and today was one of those days. Most of the kids that go to schools now are being taught that is important to care about their communities and to volunteer so many hours. I love that so many of them get credit for doing so. Anyway Demi loved it and we are going to try to make this a weekly thing. One hour a week is all it takes to bring a little joy to someone else and who knows maybe you feel better for just being there. JUST DO IT...maybe it is not a retirement home but an orphanage. Maybe it is tuturing your neighbors kids who you know are home alone while their parents are at work. Where can you make a difference or lend a hand today or this weekend?
So make it a great today and enjoy your Friday! Remember to make a difference in those you encounter and let those you love know it. Hug your kids and tell them how much they mean to you. DARE TO CHANGE the life of one person who crosses your path today <3
xoxoxo
BiT
Did you see it yet? I hope you will be open to renting it or even buying it this week.
It is about a yong boy who is battling cancer which affects so many of us, directly and indirectly. It is about his life and being God's warrior selected by God to share His love. He writes letters to God about how he is feeling or asking God to make someone else's life better and there isnt anyone that isn't touched by his presence.
It's a good one, let me know what you think if you decide to watch it.
Thursday was interesting and good. I made a call to a retirement center here in our local area. I took Demi with me and after calling on this facility for business on Monday decided to go back today to visit my cousin's wife grandmother whom we haven't seen in a while. Today was bingo day. I found it interesting that we were hoping to bless someone else's day with a surprise visit only to be blessed by going and visiting with several of the residents. Demi had a blast playing bingo with about 20 seniors. I think it is so important for kids to give back to their communities and today was one of those days. Most of the kids that go to schools now are being taught that is important to care about their communities and to volunteer so many hours. I love that so many of them get credit for doing so. Anyway Demi loved it and we are going to try to make this a weekly thing. One hour a week is all it takes to bring a little joy to someone else and who knows maybe you feel better for just being there. JUST DO IT...maybe it is not a retirement home but an orphanage. Maybe it is tuturing your neighbors kids who you know are home alone while their parents are at work. Where can you make a difference or lend a hand today or this weekend?
So make it a great today and enjoy your Friday! Remember to make a difference in those you encounter and let those you love know it. Hug your kids and tell them how much they mean to you. DARE TO CHANGE the life of one person who crosses your path today <3
xoxoxo
BiT
Thursday, August 12, 2010
Stories of Children, Women and Men Who.....(LOOKING FOR PERSONAL STORIES TO SHARE WITH THE WORLD)
Happy Thursday to you!!! Hope you are having a great week.
Do u know someone who inspires others in their daily walk? Someone whose story would lift up hearts and spirits...help give someone HOPE who may be struggling...or is just a great person to know? Maybe their testimony would have God saying "job well done" at the end of his or her race. You can PM here or email me @dwillisasi@aol.com. (I am looking for more stories for an upcoming project) ♥
Maybe it is your mom or grandma who has inspired you to be kinder or maybe it is your dad who is your HERO because of where he came from to become the man or dad he was? Do you know a child who has worked to help other children? Maybe it is someone you work with that is always doing little things to make someone elses day better. Maybe it is someone from your church who is giving of her time to work with youth or the divorced or maybe someone who is a foster mom to many kids. Maybe you know someone who volunteers at the local school or shelter for battered women just because...maybe it is the worker at starbucks who is just happy because she is alive...just someone who inspires you to be a better person or someone who has a story to share that might help someone else out in a time where there are so many challenges everyday.
It seems those who inspire are those who turn the ordinary into extraordinary. I often think about all the wonderful friends. family and complete strangers who have crossed who have crossed our paths and made our lives better. My hope is that we make the world a better place everyday and that we let others know they are special and loved...it is not rocket science but a choice that you make or can make everyday. With me?
For example, our children's pastor and his wife have made it a point to send every child that they have taught a birthday card. Every year in the 12 years we have known Mr Fred he has always sent a birthday card, maybe 4 months later than the day but I can tell you that my daughter, niece and others smile and know they are loved by him. How special is he? Maybe you are a baker like my sister Donna who uses her gift and love for cooking to make a sick friend's life easier for that day knowing this family will eat and eat something they like. Maybe this person is you and if you are performing RANDOM ACTS OF KINDNESS that would help others do more than please share your story.
So let's Think...think....share..share....if you know of someone and would like to write about this person please do so and or put me in contact with that person so that I can see if they would be interested in sharing their story. Maybe you visit their blogs daily for inspiration. I think everyone has a story to share that could make someones day better or has made choices to live their best life today despite their backgrounds or pasts.
My goal is to have this project completed by Oct 1st....will you help me? They can be 50 words or up to 2000 words. So you in? I hope so because I am so excited and passionate about sharing stories of those who have not been heard or thought their stories were not worth sharing because I care and love people.
Remember to hug your kids today and if you can find time to make someone else's day just DO IT!!
xoxoxo
Diana
Do u know someone who inspires others in their daily walk? Someone whose story would lift up hearts and spirits...help give someone HOPE who may be struggling...or is just a great person to know? Maybe their testimony would have God saying "job well done" at the end of his or her race. You can PM here or email me @dwillisasi@aol.com. (I am looking for more stories for an upcoming project) ♥
Maybe it is your mom or grandma who has inspired you to be kinder or maybe it is your dad who is your HERO because of where he came from to become the man or dad he was? Do you know a child who has worked to help other children? Maybe it is someone you work with that is always doing little things to make someone elses day better. Maybe it is someone from your church who is giving of her time to work with youth or the divorced or maybe someone who is a foster mom to many kids. Maybe you know someone who volunteers at the local school or shelter for battered women just because...maybe it is the worker at starbucks who is just happy because she is alive...just someone who inspires you to be a better person or someone who has a story to share that might help someone else out in a time where there are so many challenges everyday.
It seems those who inspire are those who turn the ordinary into extraordinary. I often think about all the wonderful friends. family and complete strangers who have crossed who have crossed our paths and made our lives better. My hope is that we make the world a better place everyday and that we let others know they are special and loved...it is not rocket science but a choice that you make or can make everyday. With me?
For example, our children's pastor and his wife have made it a point to send every child that they have taught a birthday card. Every year in the 12 years we have known Mr Fred he has always sent a birthday card, maybe 4 months later than the day but I can tell you that my daughter, niece and others smile and know they are loved by him. How special is he? Maybe you are a baker like my sister Donna who uses her gift and love for cooking to make a sick friend's life easier for that day knowing this family will eat and eat something they like. Maybe this person is you and if you are performing RANDOM ACTS OF KINDNESS that would help others do more than please share your story.
So let's Think...think....share..share....if you know of someone and would like to write about this person please do so and or put me in contact with that person so that I can see if they would be interested in sharing their story. Maybe you visit their blogs daily for inspiration. I think everyone has a story to share that could make someones day better or has made choices to live their best life today despite their backgrounds or pasts.
My goal is to have this project completed by Oct 1st....will you help me? They can be 50 words or up to 2000 words. So you in? I hope so because I am so excited and passionate about sharing stories of those who have not been heard or thought their stories were not worth sharing because I care and love people.
Remember to hug your kids today and if you can find time to make someone else's day just DO IT!!
xoxoxo
Diana
Monday, August 9, 2010
Are you making a POSITIVE difference with your life today?
Are you making a POSITIVE difference with your life that God has entrusted to you right now, today, this day in history for the generations to come?
This was the message behind an all women's conference at http://www.milestonechurch.com/ this weekend where Holly Wagner spoke to hundreds of women in our local area. She was awesome and her message was direct and to the point. Her message really got me thinking about am I all I can be today and everyday.
I love how Milestone Church honors women and single moms. Their men served the women all weekend and valeted our cars. I must say it is a nice change of pace and when you leave or at least in my case, I felt loved, cherished and appreciated more than I did upon being there. Thank you! For the challenges have been many but so worth it.
I am expecting bigger things today. My life is getting back on track and my only prayer for me today is that when I finish the race that my Heavenly Father will say good job my child. I hope God will use me today to show someone, anyone that He loves them and that people really do care. Do you know that I would love to write a book about everyday people that I encounter and how they are making a difference in my life and the world around them. That everyone is significant and has a story. I used to love that show Sixth Sense because I do believe that everyone is placed in our paths and worlds for a reason and that we do, say or how we act does make a difference today and in this moment! It is normally how we act in times of challenges that our hearts are revealed because isn't it much easier to be kind when all is good? All of this was what Holly spoke about and I am so thankful that a friend purchased a ticket for me to go. Thank you!
Here is a picture of us at Summer Splash on Friday night to include Bonnie, Elizabeth and moi. Love it and being in the house of God where good things are happening all the time because God is good.
I will leave you with this thought today....if you knew that today was your last day would you leave this world a happy person and would you have made a difference in the KINGDOM of GOD? Would you have done all that you wanted in this lifetime and would your family, friends, neighbors, coworkers, church fammily and anyone that is in your life know that you love and cherish them? Have you made peace and forgiven those who have wronged you as Jesus has done with us? Is there more you can do because you have been given another day to show someone that they are loved and cared about in a way that touches their heart and life? Is this too much to think about or will you make a decision to RISE up to the challenge today?
I hope I encourage you to want to make a difference not only in our own homes with our own families but with others that God has placed in our paths and lives today. If you know of anyone who is actually doing this everyday with a cause or just because he or she makes this a part of their day please come back and share their story. Make it a great Monday and know that you are loved so much just the way you are today!!
xoxoxo
Diana
This was the message behind an all women's conference at http://www.milestonechurch.com/ this weekend where Holly Wagner spoke to hundreds of women in our local area. She was awesome and her message was direct and to the point. Her message really got me thinking about am I all I can be today and everyday.
I love how Milestone Church honors women and single moms. Their men served the women all weekend and valeted our cars. I must say it is a nice change of pace and when you leave or at least in my case, I felt loved, cherished and appreciated more than I did upon being there. Thank you! For the challenges have been many but so worth it.
I am expecting bigger things today. My life is getting back on track and my only prayer for me today is that when I finish the race that my Heavenly Father will say good job my child. I hope God will use me today to show someone, anyone that He loves them and that people really do care. Do you know that I would love to write a book about everyday people that I encounter and how they are making a difference in my life and the world around them. That everyone is significant and has a story. I used to love that show Sixth Sense because I do believe that everyone is placed in our paths and worlds for a reason and that we do, say or how we act does make a difference today and in this moment! It is normally how we act in times of challenges that our hearts are revealed because isn't it much easier to be kind when all is good? All of this was what Holly spoke about and I am so thankful that a friend purchased a ticket for me to go. Thank you!
Here is a picture of us at Summer Splash on Friday night to include Bonnie, Elizabeth and moi. Love it and being in the house of God where good things are happening all the time because God is good.
If you want to laugh today you can visit youtube and see some spoofs our church did this weekend on swagger wagon and anjela johnson (bon qui qui) which I had no knowledge of...can I just say I had tears streaming from laughing at our volunteers who put on these skits. No need to go to a comedy show when you have you tube and so many people bringing us fun and comedy here. Technology can be wonderful if used appropiately. It was Elizabeth's 35 birthday too, so happy birthday friend. So grateful our paths have crossed and that I have a new friend!
I hope I encourage you to want to make a difference not only in our own homes with our own families but with others that God has placed in our paths and lives today. If you know of anyone who is actually doing this everyday with a cause or just because he or she makes this a part of their day please come back and share their story. Make it a great Monday and know that you are loved so much just the way you are today!!
xoxoxo
Diana
Thursday, August 5, 2010
Two FREE Seminars from Simplify101....
You can check out both of these FREE seminars offered by Aby at http://www.simplify101.com/ and by going to this lin here.
http://www.simplify101.com/sample-online-workshops.php?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=mn05aug10
Learn How to Get Organized and It's About Time will both help you get your clutter cleaned up and organzied. I hope you enjoy one or both if you decide to take part one of her seminars.
Have a great Thursday,
Diana
http://www.simplify101.com/sample-online-workshops.php?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=mn05aug10
Learn How to Get Organized and It's About Time will both help you get your clutter cleaned up and organzied. I hope you enjoy one or both if you decide to take part one of her seminars.
Have a great Thursday,
Diana
Wednesday, July 28, 2010
A Little Birdie Told Me by Melody Ross....
This was her post today and it was refreshing to read today with all that I have been dealing with both physically and emotionally. One day I would so love to attend one of her Brave Girls Camp,maybe before I am 50.
Dear Incredible Girl,
When you've done all that you can do, and you still feel like you have so much
further to go.....when you feel like all that you have to give still isn't nearly
enough....when it seems that you will not be able to keep up everything that needs
to be kept up for one minute longer....
Stop and breathe.
Look....really really look at what you are expecting of yourself.....
You are an incredible girl...you are amazing and strong and brilliant.........but,
friend...you are also a human being. You can not do it all....you can not always hold
everything together perfectly and you can be perfectly composed every single day. It's
ok to have "off" days...it's ok to feel weak...and overwhelmed and have meltdowns once
in a while. It's ok. YOU are ok. Everything is going to be ok. It is.
Let yourself have days to be a perfectly imperfect human being. Let yourself feel what
you need to feel and process your life the way you need to process it. Let yourself BE.
Bad days will pass, and overwhelm will dissolve and the sun will come up again tomorrow
morning....just like it does every day. There will be a brand new sparking day waiting
for you tomorrow....waiting for you to hold hands with all of the joy that it is offering.
You are just right. You are doing great. You are fabulous!
And you are very very very loved.
xoxo
Isnt this awesome and what every woman, mom, wife, business owner, daughter, sister, volunteer needs to hear or read? I love this and everything she stands for today.
Have a great Thursday, I am excited about God's plan for me/us and hope I will have the opportunity to share God's love with those who need to know they are loved no matter what!
xoxoxo
Diana
Dear Incredible Girl,
When you've done all that you can do, and you still feel like you have so much
further to go.....when you feel like all that you have to give still isn't nearly
enough....when it seems that you will not be able to keep up everything that needs
to be kept up for one minute longer....
Stop and breathe.
Look....really really look at what you are expecting of yourself.....
You are an incredible girl...you are amazing and strong and brilliant.........but,
friend...you are also a human being. You can not do it all....you can not always hold
everything together perfectly and you can be perfectly composed every single day. It's
ok to have "off" days...it's ok to feel weak...and overwhelmed and have meltdowns once
in a while. It's ok. YOU are ok. Everything is going to be ok. It is.
Let yourself have days to be a perfectly imperfect human being. Let yourself feel what
you need to feel and process your life the way you need to process it. Let yourself BE.
Bad days will pass, and overwhelm will dissolve and the sun will come up again tomorrow
morning....just like it does every day. There will be a brand new sparking day waiting
for you tomorrow....waiting for you to hold hands with all of the joy that it is offering.
You are just right. You are doing great. You are fabulous!
And you are very very very loved.
xoxo
Isnt this awesome and what every woman, mom, wife, business owner, daughter, sister, volunteer needs to hear or read? I love this and everything she stands for today.
Have a great Thursday, I am excited about God's plan for me/us and hope I will have the opportunity to share God's love with those who need to know they are loved no matter what!
xoxoxo
Diana
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