Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to You and Yours

It is done. It's Christmas Eve, and besides many stuck in airports due to weather, many have just had their electricity restored, and many are digging out of snow, to make Christmas happen, it's here. Whether you are ready or not. Now the miracles happen. The kindnesses that are extended beyond being nice.

I believe that today must be the most magical day, because once the actual Christmas day arrives, there's a lull that you feel after all the gifts are opened, and the kids are off playing with their gifts.

I was working on knitting projects that got put on hold due to Holiday shopping that was put off to the last minute. But, the best thing about knitting is that it doesn't go anywhere until I get back to it... So next year I'll be a little more ready.

All the cooking to do is now taking precedence so there's absolutely no more time to shop, hoping that you can pick up that one gift that will make the difference. I pray that families will look past the gifts to the thoughts that Love started it all.

A love bigger than we could ever know. The love of God for His most prized possession. YOU AND ME! Because He loved us so, He put on the flesh and endured the life in flesh to be crucified, and Risen again to conquer death. Yes, I am talking about our Lord Christ Jesus Himself. Glory Hallelujah:) I get excited when I Praise His Name. But I hope that the smiles and hugs all hold that special love for mankind that allows us all to endure for just a while longer, before we start worrying again about our money, the economy, and the next year.

So, relax, it is done. Smile, it is done. Praise Him. It is done. Now go hug all your friends and loved ones and don't worry. IT IS DONE!

As the World Turns

The closer time moves towards Christmas, the more traffic, the more spending, the more stress. Stress over the gifts, stress over travel, stress over not having enough money to shop for gifts. Stress over family members, having them, and not having them. It can drive someone mad, were it not for comedy. The ability to laugh is certainly a way of relieving the stress. And this story about Blagoavisch is certainly nothing to laugh about, but hey, who sells a senate seat? This stuff is the fodder of comedians all over the world.

In my mail box on a daily basis are credit card offers, gift checks that will cost me unprecedented amounts of interest, and advertisements that promise to save me $$$ when I shop online with their organizations.

However, I like to think about the actual birth of Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. How, it was prophesied about prior to the actual event, how, it was three wise shepards that God chose to share this prophesy with, and how this event fulfilled the promise to bring all men who believe on the Lord Jesus Christ to eternal life. That is the biggest message of the season, and to me, 'THAT IS GOOD NEWS'.

So, while you are stressed and pulled too and fro over the stress of making things just right, every time you smile at a stranger, and greet someone out there in this stress filled world, you just might be showing the most important message given. And it doesn't cost you a thing.

Make a wonderful holiday season. And if you look to have pictures printed up, check out Clarkcolorlabs.com because they offer pictures for only $.08cents a copy. You cannot beat their prices with a stick. I have seen prices as high as $.29cents a copy, and $.08cents... think about it. Less stress!!!:)

Have a Merry Holiday Season

Retraction

Yesterday, I came in and post long commentary about jobs... i could be wrong.

"I cannot help but feel that there are jobs out there, it's just that some people feel that they are over qualified, or underqualified, or they don't pay what they are looking for. Well, honestly, you won't get anything if you don't get out there.". Maybe there really aren't as many jobs out there. I keep hearing about the auto bailout, and I wonder if anyone cares that the unemployment rate is already around 6%. Soon, if there isn't some help for those large auto makers, there's going to be a huge unemployment surge in this country, and while I have been fortunate enough to have found a job, there is going to have to be a shift in this country to employ all those people.

I just felt that for the past 6 years while I was unemployed,it hurt. I never let my mortgage slip, (didn't pay it), but it was very very hard. Being in the kind of economy that is materialistic, our hands were tied. My self, my kids... my husband, who worked very hard just to make sure that we had the basic needs. Yes we drive a very old car, but it's clean, and it is paid for. Yea our house needs repairs, but we still own our home. And if I was with those who are currently unemployed, I found myself hoping and grasping for straws.

Hey, I even thought that I could make money doing surveys online. (that was the most foolish). What I did was open my email account for junk mail, that is still filling that box to date... so of course... I have an opinion. Several years back, when my back and neck issues were serious enough to cause me to lose my job, we lost our house, they repossessed our car, we became renters, and we drove ugly old cars.

We made it through with prayer and hope... but the main thing is that we made it through. Our spending habits took on a different outlook. And at this point in time, I wish that I could say that we are debt free... but we manage our debt a lot better now.

I think that what I am trying to say is that it has been my prayer all along that congress would help those who are currently in foreclosure to help save their homes. And it's my hope that jobs will open up. As a matter of fact, I believe that once President Elect Barack Obama becomes President, and can tackle some of the paperwork on his Presidential desk, JOBS will be on top.

Thanksgiving?

Wonderful, Thankful, Grateful, Hopeful, and Blessed

It's yet another year having gone by to bring in the Thanksgiving season 2008. This year it's different though. Around every table with every meal will be prayers of thankfulness for our New President Elect Barack Obama. I know that it will be so around our table. Along with the thankfulness of having food on our table.

Prices have risen so high in the supermarkets, that I too have begun using coupons, and a little known secret that they don't announce is that Tuesday-Thursday, the prices are less than Friday - Monday. I have been watching this for weeks, and have found it to be so, but due to a busy work schedule don't always have the time to get out to the supermarket during the not so busy days of the week. But you can best believe that next week, it won't be so. If you are going to get your vegetables fresh, you can be sure that they will raise the prices next Sunday, and keep them up through Friday. Sad as it is, that's where a lot of our extra money has gone, so we don't really have a lot of money for the holidays to spend on gifts.

I have already begun making my handmade gifts. I know that they possibly seem a little hoaky, but you can best believe that when I make something from love, it is definitely cherished more from my heart!

My post crossing has been going on now for an entire year. I have received such beautiful cards from around the world, and wonderful gifts of love from people all over the world. I will ever cherish these cards. Site to view my blessed cards to come in the future.

Since my surgical procedure in September 2006, I finally found a permanent part-time position, and have now been working for more than 6 months! Glory to God! I am so thankful, because when you lay around sick and in pain, you are possibly toxic to people in your family without even knowing it. The pictures of my family two years ago, versus pictures of my family now are remarkable. There was a lot of suffering, and it wasn't on purpose, it was sickness. So I can really identify with those who are depressed, and cannot seem to make things happen in a positive direction. But honestly, as scared as I was to enter the working world, the thought of being broker than broke caused me to go to a temporary job agency, where they believed in my work experience and sent me out on jobs. This is how I began. And right now, I would recommend that way of beginning for anyone just getting started again, after having been broke, depressed, and sick. I cannot help but feel that there are jobs out there, it's just that some people feel that they are over qualified, or underqualified, or they don't pay what they are looking for. Well, honestly, you won't get anything if you don't get out there.

I want to wish you all a wonderful holiday next week. It's now been a year that I have been blogging here too! And I am very happy to say that my life has changed for the better. NOT A LOT! But enough for me have something to be thankful for.

VOTE vote VOTE

Today's the day that we have all been waiting for. The back and forth smearing; the back and forth debates; the back and forth commercials; and finally those idiot robot calls... it's all going to be said and done, finally. I voted early, because I didn't want to worry that possibly my vote might be stolen. I don't think that I am alone in that belief since more than 2 million people voted early, like myself.

See, I voted for Kerry, and I was very hurt when he didn't win the Presidential nomination. And then before that there was Gore. I voted for him too. And I was very upset when he didn't win either. So, on this occassion, they offered early voting, and I took that opportunity to get down to the election board and vote.

As a black woman, I know that it's been a long hard road to tow to even have the priviledge of voting. I don't take that for granted. And I teach my kids the same. My daughter was in the line when I left, and she's carrying a 7-month pregnancy weight. She stood in the long line though, just so that she'd have the opportunity to make history. Today, my son and my husband will go vote... And I pray that the resulting winner will be just who this country needs, to make the changes that we need. Better health care, health care for all. I just cannot see how if you lose your job, because it's been outsourced, then you cannot pay your mortgage because you are unemployed, and to top all that off, the groceries you buy to feed your family are costing you all your extra money, as if the gas prices aren't high enough. NEWSFLASH! IT HURT!

And with the drop in the stock market, my husbands' Retirement took a beating, and he lost money, a lot of money. AAAHHHH! I cannot tell you how angry I am. But, to top it all off, We bailed out... I say "we", because I am a taxpayer. We BAILED Out the wall street situation was is in this state because of greed, I AM VERY ANGRY... ANGRY with the current President. To top all this off, there's that little thing about IRAQ! WHAT???? WHAT IS THAT ALL ABOUT? WEAPONS OF MASS DESTRUCTION!!!! Not to mention that Afghanistan just don't care how many Americans they hurt. They want us out of there, and I know that some people will say that we need to protect Isreal, but we really need to pay attention to our own country. This country is sick. Sick of putting up with neglect. Sick of being sick. I am praying for a healing. For all people, democrats, republicans, and independents. Because no matter what happens, we are all in this country together.

Since I don't have an exit strategy, I am going to have to deal with whoever may become our next president. I pray that the best man wins.

Two Weeks to go

Times are difficult no doubt, and getting even more complicated as each day passes, as the Race for the White House continues. I know that some weeks back, I wanted to turn the news off, and not watch it anymore. Afterall, I know who I am voting for. But I couldn't turn it off, and in fact found more information that I even know what to do with watching the various news programs and online.
While it's true, I support Barack Obama, watching the early Sunday Morning Program Meet the Press featuring Colin Powell was ever more refreshing. A person of his stature weighing in about the political goings on of both campaings was great, even necessary.
And his endorsement of Obama just gave me cause to shout! YEAH!

I am so excited. And now in the news everyone is of course weighing in about what they think about it, and from what I have seen, the odds are overwhelmingly positive.

I couldn't be happier about Mr. Powell's endorsement.

On to the other events in my life... My daughter turned 28 last week. She's nearly 7 months pregnant, and it's getting to her the weight of her next child. But she's still smiling and pulling for Obama, Yeah! Amani is growing, she now has two teeth.

Joe is smiling! And becoming more involved in the conversation.

My son, and Joe's mom, got married last month. Yeah! He's my first child to get married... and I have had to explain to him, that once you get married we don't do divorce, so he and her are working hard at keeping things together, and believe me, they have their hands full with 3 boys, ranging in age from 6 (six) to 3 (three) months. I am quite proud of him, and look forward to a long loving relationship with my new daughter in law.

And then there's me... who has spent much of this year working... part time, but working none the less... am still working. And since last week I got paid, I have to admit that I love getting paid. I am a little sorry to not have all the time that I'd like keeping up with me blogs, but I am going to try to keep things going a little better. I am working so hard at keeping up... but arthritis is currently my delima. And Aleve is my answer for that.

We're into a complete new football season, and I can't pay too much attention due to watching all the news programs, but I am knitting again! Yeah! The vogue scarf that I am working on is nearly done. And when I am done, it's going to be so great, because I have soo many other projects to work on. But it's going to be great!

Have a great week.

Hey, Waz Up?

It's been a while I know. I have been doing ok. Just working at staying in the game, and not desiring to lose my job or my current life style. I am grateful I assure to even have a job, no matter how mundane it may seem. After sitting at home for more than five years, I sometimes have to remind myself that I do like going out to earn a living, because when I stayed at home trying the various internet opportunities, I only got myself into trouble.

I am working on becoming a better photographer. Hence, the picture of the rose. I really enjoy my time spent behind my camera lens. And that brings me to the point of having photos printed. If you are looking for the least expensive quality pictures, check out Clarkcolor.com. You won't be disappointed. They give you the FIRST 20 prints FREE! And after that they are only .08 cents a copy. And downloading them takes just a couple of minutes. Believe me, I've tried walmart and walgreens. It was ok, the pictures were of good quality, but the cost of $.15 cents a copy just doesn't compare with $.08 cents a copy. If you want to see your digital pictures in print, check out Clarkcolor.com. And when you think you are getting a good price with WalMart prints, check out Clarkcolor.com, because you will certainly find that the quality and price will be more pleasing to your wallet.

As you know, I recently had a birthday. Well, it's now official, I am over 50! But I don't feel like it. Oh, when I had those issues with my back and neck, I felt like I was 60, but now I am feeling like I am 42! So, with so much of life yet to live, I am grateful to have this opportunity to begin again!

I want to wish you the best of days.

What a World

Being a Democrat has it's advantages I will admit. Such as not being so constrained by class that you can't see where you're walking is on the little people:( !But this past week has made me understand so much more. You see, I always knew that I wasn't a republican, but temporarily, their words were making sense to me, but thanks to the candidate for President these days, I am almost willing to hope that "Yes, We Can", fix the problems with health insurance. "Yes, We Can", end a senseless war, "Yes, We Can", provide better education for my grandchildren.

It's not going to be easy, because it was painful getting in this current situation, but after watching was President Clinton did while he was in office, I am willing to give the same opportunity to Candidate Barrack Obama. For the first time in my life, I made a campaign contribution. And I am not saying that to get any credit, but I just wanted to be a part of something great. I encourage you to look and listen with an open mind to Candidate Barrack Obama's words, and see if it doesn't encourage you hope for a better future. After all, We are not blue, or red, but we are Americans:)

I am attending and participating in my 1st office party today:) I am taking in fruit! Grapes, strawberries, blue berries, and pineapple! MMmm! I tell you, this working for money is great, but I have gained more than five pounds, and I was already a little heavy, so now, I am challenged with my weight. I am going to have to put a little pep in my step, and see if I cannot walk off some of the weight that I have gained. My plan to lose of course is to walk... Low impact stretching. And due to osteoarthritis I need to be careful, but I am willing.

My grand daughter Amani, is nearly ready to crawl! You know how they say, you need to crawl before you walk!, well, she's been in a walker strengthening her legs! But when we put her in the floor, she's going to crawl! Yeah. And, question???? What do we do with all that drool???? Do you think we could sell it as a Look Younger Mask? Crazy, but Do You Think We Could?????

Faith, my older grand daughter began 3rd grade last week! Yeah! We are working hard with her to get her to reach her potential in a school that is diverse and underpriviledged. My daughter is taking the time to help out, and I think that's going to make the largest difference in my grand daughter's life:)

My husband and I just celebrated our 31st year anniversary, and he experienced his 30th year anniversary in the Federal Government:) What a month August has been! To top all of that off, the heat that we experienced in July, was made better in Aug with an unusual amount of rain. It not only cooled things off, but it made it appear so much better outside for the foliage to get the water! Beautiful.

Well, this working woman is off to accomplish my short day. You enjoy yours!

It's been a wet week!

It's been a week now of dark cool days, And lots of water. I have to admit, I enjoyed the cooler weather, because the heat was getting to be a bit much. But now, we not only have the moisture, but the heat... humidity! Oh well, just part of living in the midwest.

Well, work is getting better. I've been working now more than a month. I am not going to say that it's easy, because the rain just added to the stress on my body's arthritis, but I am doing ok. I am still taking my Melaleuca vitamins and Replenex! So, I am not totally sore.

You know after more than thirty years of smoking, I quit a few months ago now. And just recently, I looked at myself in the mirror, and I didn't like what I saw. So, the time has come for me to get my eating under control, and begin some type of excercise program. I cannot bring in my 55th year in this state. Not just the fact that I am a bit overweight, but if I lost 30 pounds, I am sure that my lower back will feel better too. So, I'm pledging to be more conscious of what I eat and drink, and also to walk to rid myself of the extra weight that I've gained. Afterall, America's large enough without my little bit adding to it.

I've always been health conscious, from way back in the day when my son was 6 months old, and Richard Simmons was on the tube working out. From that time, I began my Aerobic style of living, and have always believed in getting the exercise required during a week, no matter what my health status. However, it was more difficult to do when my back broke, but I did continue on a limited basis. And since that time, have had some difficulty exercising regularly. But quitting smoking "finally" is what I really needed to do to get my health together. Now that I'm a non smoker, I need to get up and walk again! Why not?

The Daughter, Grand Daughters, and family, calling me to get busy, so I'll be back, have a plan to begin... And this is where I will sound off.

Make a great day! Leave me a comment!

Finally Friday

Wow! What a week it's been. It sped by so fast, and yet my body lets me know that it didn't just speed by, I lived it! My daughter and grand daughters spent the past couple of days with me. Amani is quite a charmer, you just look at her, and she smiles! Not yet 5 months... what a joy:) Grand daughter Faith growing more, and finally coming into her own little personality. Her mother and I were talking about the differences in their personality, as we were riding in the car the other day, and Faith chimed into the conversation, "What's a personality?" So cute. Things like that I never want to forget. Because it just puts a smile on my face just thinking about it.

Well, I am grown up, grand mother, black working barbie!!! I have a job with my own phone, and the company that I am working for put my name on my phone!!! It feels really good after more than 6 years of suffering through spinal disease. That's why it's so important for me to get my rest. I have also been using ice, and honestly, it's working to reduce the swelling that so often causes me pain. I am taking Aleve. And one day I tried something else that the doctor prescribed, but anytime I take the nsaids, I get that sick feeling. Just sick, but aleve doesn't make me sick, it just erases my pain long enough for me to do what I need to do!

This weekend is my 31st anniversary of marriage. And my husband just passed his 30th year of service for the federal government! It would be great if we could retire now, but we just have to much debt:(! Oh well, in the next 10 years, we will:) and then we'll move to a warm climate and live out our days, traveling and spending time with family and friends:)

Letting the Lord love me is getting easier. For years I beat myself up because of my illness. My health always played an issue in what people were saying about me. Well not anymore! I am free to love, and now free to live without worrying about what anyone will do to me. I am truly grateful, and I appreciate you if you've read this far in my little special something, leave me a note of encouragement, because I want to encourage you too. Love yourself, because God loves YOU, just as You are:)

Happy Monday to You!

And they are off!!! The 2008 Olympics in Besinge have begun! I found it great to watch, and found myself not always rooting for America. With so many great athletes competing to place #1, it just fills your heart when you hear their stories and then see how they perform. I am completely swept into a competitive swirl as I engage in watching the competition.

The dollar is going further in the gas tank, and I couldn't be happier. I filled my tank, and saved $10.00. Does this mean the prices of those groceries will go back? Only time will tell, but I have my doubts. I have found that the prices in the major supermarkets are less on Tuesday and Wednesday... By Friday, they raise the prices for the weekend traffic, then by Tuesday again, they are reduced. So by shopping for food on Tuesday or Wednesday will be more cost effective if you are looking to save some dollars.

I spent my weekend with Grand Daughter Faith! We had so much fun. It's been a long time since her and I had the weekend to ourself! She loves this game calls "Sims 2", so we played that, and she is so engaging in that game. It just brought happy smiles for both of us. And her reading skills are improving. Her daddy, who hasn't been active in her life, promised her a couple of weeks ago that he was going to send her some new shoes, and true to his word he did! Thank You Dad! She's beaming from ear to ear.

And the Beat Goes On

I find that I'm dreaming at night what information I am going to place in my blog. I heard in the news just yesterday that you need to be careful about what information you put online. Because sometimes, as in the case of disolving a marriage, it can backfire on you! Or not depending on whose side you take! Interesting.

And as gas prices continue to drop, I couldn't be happier. I have my car nearly paid off, and I'm not anxious to go and get an upgrade because I think I would like to find out what it's like not to have that huge car payment! And that's going to allow me to pay down some of my other debt... yes you guessed it, I am struggling to become debt free! It can happen and I look forward! But it's not easy. You really have to turn the tv off, and turn off the shopping. You'll see all the cars in the lots of the malls and strip malls on the weekends. But the point with becoming debt free is really very healthy and allows one to take stock in what they've already spent their money on, and grow. I am feeling like super woman, and we know I am not.

Working everyday, even part time costs me. I won't be getting those easy weeks of unemployment, but I get to be a part of what america represents for just a short period of time during the day, and I believe that my life is happier.

My photography has taken a turn. I love the glass and beads that I recently created! And if I love it, there are others who might!

Life just keeps getting better

Thank You Lord, the gas prices are dropping. No one could be happier than me that they finally shut up all that speculation about the price of oil! Finally we have a reprieve, but do you ever think the price of gas will go back to $36.00 a barrel?

What's up with McCain, besides his low hitting campaign of smearing Obama? I wonder what exactly is his plan, because for the little people down here, you know us bottom feeders, it looks like he is just working for Obama. And when they talk about flip flopping why don't they look at the man who's had the job for 20years, versus the man who's been doing it for 3years. I hate all the speculation. I hate all this occupying my news, really, I'm going to turn my TV off the news until the actual election takes place. SICK OF IT!

Now in the life of time of me, I've become gainfully employed. Permanently part time. And the great part is, no phones!!! I didn't get the working for the call center, making or receiving calls! And this is good, because I don't ever want to work phones again. I don't know who's raised people to cuss you out on the phone, but I don't have to endure that crap anymore. Now I work quietly in an office. In a paperless system? I am not so sure about that. But there must always be hope right?

My grand kids are doing well! I haven't had as much time to spend with them since I have become gainfully employed, and I miss that, but I like the money more! Have a wonderful day.

HAPPY MONDAY!

Good Monday morning to you,

I am actually doing well this morning. I cried like a baby the other day though. I could not stand the pain that I have been enduring in my neck and back. Have you ever felt that way. As an arthritis sufferer, it may have, and possibly you have some type of pill that you can take to alleviate the pain. I don't! The only thing that I have is good old fashioned exercise, or rest. Live less. Mmmm! None of these seems like fun, because I love getting the camera out, going out and taking pictures. I love getting into my sewing area and creating things. I love spending time with my family, and I don't like doing any of it in pain! So yeah, I spent about five minutes crying like a baby. Good thing too. Apparently, I just needed to get it out! Now it's time to go back to work, and I think I don't feel any worse than I did Friday afternoon when I got off!

I attended Church yesterday. That was a miracle in itself. But I want to also find the point of have such a great faith! You might recall the scripture in Luke 7, where the centurion sent a messenger to get Jesus on behalf of his servant who was sick. And the Centurion didn't want Jesus coming in to his home, saying, he was not worthy, but if He would just speak the word, He could heal his servant. And Christ said, in all Judea He hadn't seen such great Faith! I want to have that kind of Faith and not just pray for myself, my family and friends, but I'd like to include a couple of people that I don't know. Acquaintances if you will. Applying that Faith to help someone else. It shall be done. Glory and Honor to God Our Father through Christ Jesus Always.

Now finally, as I go out into the world today, feeling a little better, and maintaining this working life, I hope to create something new this week! Enjoy Your Day and Keep Smiling:)

Good Day to You

How are you doing today. My soul is happy, healthy, and content. #1. I have my health. #2. I love the Lord, and He loves me back. #3. I am confident that I will defeat debt in my future!!!

I am taking a class now entitled, "Where'd my money go?" It's definitely caused me to take stock of exactly what and where I've been putting my money. I know that I have been sort of out of control. You ever go through that? When you'll use the credit card to make a purchase for something that you really don't need. But at the time of purchase, I want it. I love to go shopping. I love purchasing things for my grand kids, but honestly, do I want to spend the next 5 years paying that debt? And is 12% interest ok with me? I had never even given much thought to these questions before, but now I am. I am thinking that I have been completely foolish with my credit cards.

I cannot tell you how much money I have spent on trying to attain a job at home. You know, those simple little advertisements that come into your mailbox offering thousands of dollars a day working from home. It's completely crazy the amount of power those little ads have on someone who's hurting, broke, and depressed. I have finally had to cut up my credit cards so that I won't use them. So that I won't even be a little tempted. If I don't have the cash, I don't need it.

And now I see what's happening in the news with the real estate bail out. Are you kidding me? It's not like I haven't sacrificed to continue to pay my own mortgage in a market that costs me more for food and gasoline. And why must I now be penalized for doing the right thing? I am not in agreement with the Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac Bailout! But does how I feel about it help me at all?

This is going to be difficult to let go of. Because this will cost me in taxes just as much as it will cost my grand children and great grand children for all the tax cuts that have massaged the nation. Not to mention the fact that I won't be able to count on social security for my future when I am too old to work. Never mind that I just spent the past five years having major surgeries and not getting disability insurance for it. More than anything this pisses me off royally because I have to pay into the system when I work, yet as a handicapped person I cannot get my return. Oh I am ANGRY, BLOOD RED MAD about this.

Hence, the cause for my blog. The last time the Social Security Administration Disability Board declined my case for disability, I began blogging, just to have an outlet, and initially, it worked, but the news recently, about me having to pay for the Bail OUT of the Real Estate situation just causes great stress inside me with no release! I could scream!

Is there no wonder why people go postal!!!

Last week I worked a 40 hour week, just sitting and answering a phone, and because of my handicap I spent the weekend and everyday through Wednesday, working part time and resting, just to make ends meet in the financial ends of my home, and I don't qualify for disability insurance. No one could ever convince me that I wasn't discriminited against. Maybe it's because I am black, but I would never be able to prove that. I simply must move on. Trying to resolve that I do what I do, and that's all I can do.

Knowing all that, I intend to leave the written word, and get out and go to my part time job that helps me make some money to survive this existence. I will keep smiling, because that's what gets me through. Enjoy your day!

All's well in the land of Silver Fox

Hello, Hay, and Good Morning to you! I do fine this morning. It's nearing lunch time though. This morning I ran out the house and forgot my lunch after taking the time to make it! Fortunately, my husband brought it down to me. It's easy when you live in a place with less than a million population, because the downtown is a lot smaller!!!

Yesterday evening we got our Cadillac out of the shop. I totally enjoyed my ride in this morning. I love Cadillac! Truly. And I especially love not having a car payment!

Anyway, recently you know I had another grand child born, Josiah Michael. Well, I wanted to find out what Clarklabs.com was all about. They advertise that they print photos for 8 cents a copy, and my estimate is that is 1/2 price of what Walgreens charges. So I went for it. The upload was quick. The process was user friendly, and to top it off, they gave me 20 free photos with my 1st order! Am I a happy customer. You bet I am, and I didn't have to wait forever to get the photos, they came in a week. And that was due to the 4th of July falling on a Friday. So will I recommend Clarklab.com? You bet. Cost, quality, and expediency all mark for quality internet shopping experience. If you are like me, and you are always looking for ways to save money, I can't say it enough. Clarklab.com should be your choice!!!

Enough of the commercial, I found out last weekend that my daughter is expecting another baby in February of 2009! Incredible huh? She's happy though, so I am happy for her. In light of all these kids I have upgraded my photoshop Elements program to Elements 6 and that included Premiere 4. Soon I'll be taking video.
My grand kids are turning out to be the most photographed people of all the family. When I was young, and I don't want to say when that was, but photography wasn't what it is today. I love that I can take photos and process them within a matter of minutes. What could be faster:) And then with the single session online, I can have them ordered and coming to me via snail mail in a beautiful photo book within a matter of days. Life just keeps getting better where photos are concerned. Really, what will they think of next?

Hey, you go out and enjoy your day.

TWINS

Congratulations to my brother Tony. On the 7th of July, his daughter gave birth to twin boys. The most recent picture that I received from him showed him holding both boys, one on each arm for the camera to see. His grin was enough to let everyone know that he was proud.

Our family is growing by leaps and bounds this year. And to top it off, my daughter is about to have another child. Another child, hopefully a boy. So that she can have herself completely insured against any further propagating. Not that she's not doing well, she's doing fine, but with the cost of living these days, I am just frightened a little for her. But... when I think back, wasn't it the same for us. We started our family, and at that time, it was just like it is now... prices are always on the rise, and the cost of fuel has been going up for so many years that I really cannot remember... although I liked driving a lot more when it was less expensive.

Speaking of driving... I love a road trip. I love driving. Hitting the highway headed for some state that I have been too in the past, and just driving. Listening to the music, watching the automobiles pass; seeing all the truckers on the roads moving things from someplace to another place. I love seeing the cities grow. I have driven from California to Pennsylvania on I80. I have hit the road from California to Chicago. I have traveled the souther route through Texas from California. I have gone from here to there and back again. And loved every minute of it.

Long are gone the days. Right now, I am struggling just to get from home to work with the vehicle that I drive. I am working on finding employment at home, but until that happens I keep trying to find employment that will be closer to where I live rather than commute.

But Praise be to God, yesterday the cost of a barrell of oil actually dropped. DROPPED more than 6.00 a barrell. Should I continue to hope that it's going to continue to go lower. From my keyboard to God's ears! It would be nice to get back out and just drive...but right now... I am looking for a commuter car. A car that can give me more than 30 miles to the gallon. With all the comfort of the Cadillac that I own! It could happen!

So, as this family grows by these leaps and bounds we are going to have to get together. Looks like a Family Reunion is in our future! I'd better start saving my lunch money huh!!??!!

Life after...

Back in September last year, 2007, I was totally out of life, depressed about being depressed, and feeling like life just killed me over and over again with negatives. I couldn't see that there would ever be any life after I received yet another "disqualified" from the Social Security Disability Board. This was like the 6th or 7th time I have filed. Mind you it was definitely the 3rd time filed within a five year period. In that five years, I had a neck decompression, a fusion on my L4-L5 vertabrae, and then when that fusion failed, I had a second fusion, this time encompassing taking bone marrow from my hip. I have a great many scars on the back of my body, looking like a zipper from the crack of my behind to the edge of my hairline above my neck. Oh believe me, I had my hair shaved for the neck decompression.

After years of living in so much pain, I wished for death daily, I would never have dreamed that Social Security Disability would deny my claim. I have met people in the hospital who were getting disability insurance for a lot less injuries than the one's that I was living with. But they did. Now I know that they have discriminated against me. But who can I take this to? Who's going to go up against the government on the basis of discrimination for disability insurance because my skin is black. Oh, I had lawyers, because each time, I went before a judge, with a lawyer, I was denied. I JUST KNEW THAT MY WHOLE LIFE WAS DENIED.

I am happy to say that today, I don't earn a lot of money, and sometimes, it's not even enough, but getting out of the house and working part time, not only makes me a little money, but it gives me something that I haven't felt in a long time. Responsibility. A feeling of being needed. The knowledge that after it all, I can still answer the phone for a company.

I don't know if I'll ever be able to work full time again, without having to manage my pain, but positive affirmations work. Each morning I arise, I repeat my positive affirmation about healing, and step out into the world in faith. And you know something... after all is said and done, my life is improving. I am a better person because of what I have been through.

And now, my kids are having kids. This year alone, I've been blessed with two new grandchildren. And it looks like I am going to get yet another one in the new year coming. If they don't keep me young and vibrant, I don't know how... maybe it's smelling their essence. Because I cannot get enough of it. Maybe it's their slobber, because teething is happening, and drool happens. Maybe more than anything else, it's hope in their little lives. Hope that this earth will continue to revolve, so that I can see them grow up.

This transformation of my life after another final denial from the Social Security Disability Board is finally a good one. Life is good. And with each day, as I continue to heal within Life's just getting better. From one who's seen some darkness, I am happy to say that life is getting better everyday. Enjoy your day, and take care.

My Sewing Project

It's been a long time for me sitting down to my sewing machine, and making a garment as simply and easily as it really is. Too often these days, I'll run out to Sears, Macy's or JCPenneys to acquire clothing at the expense of my credit card. And while the gas prices rise, causing me to spend much of my expendable cash on gas, I don't have the money anymore to continue to pay high interest rate credit cards. So clothing, which is more like something I love to purchase, is going to once again become, my way of staying current in clothing with the most beautiful colors of my own choice.

Before I can begin anything, I have to organize my tools. Tools of the trade for sewing include a tape measure, pin cushion with pins, pencil and paper, stitch picker and good lighting just to start. Scissors, and when you get into scissors it gets very personal. I like the smallest fiskar scissors for snipping the threads once I have stitched a seam on the sewing machine and serger. And my cutting scissors are a pair that I have maintained for more than 12 years. It's important to keep scissors for sewing projects out of the hands of members of your family, because they tend to use them on paper, which makes them dull. (I Hate Dull Scissors). In addition to the tools aforemented, without fabric you don't have a project, and that's where Fabrics.com comes in. Recently, I purchase a beautiful piece of baby rib knit in yellow from Fabrics.com, and I am completely happy with my purchase. The price was very reasonable, the color likeness was very good on my monitor and appears just as I expected when I received it, and the care with which it was mailed to me was completely secure and cost efficient. I appreciate that because walking into a fabric store physically can lead me to purchasing fabrics that I neither want nor need, just because they have so much in front of me. Well, with Fabrics.com, I went exactly where I wanted to get exactly what I was looking for, and kept the cost down because of it.

I would recommend shopping Fabrics.com to anyone else looking for quality with ease of online shopping. Fabrics.com makes it easy, and they offer near to free shipping for the 1st order. You can't beat it. So, if you're a seamstress and trying to get the best purchase check out Fabrics.com.

Good Morning, or Hey, how are you?

I myself do find. I cant wait til i git out of jayl cuz thin i con fin a reel job. presn theese lisinc plats is hard work an i dont evn git paad. my frind tony he say that...

Just kidding. How silly would it really be to type in that way. But maybe I am just making a point. Even people who can't type or spell need love too, right? I have just watched this film from Louise L Hay, about speaking and thinking positively. About laying affirmations everywhere, and especially saying them up close and personal in the mirror to yourself to change your life.

I am pretty sure that my life needs a change, so I am doing it. I am beginning right here, right now.

I am healing and becoming whole by my words and thoughts.

You go out and have a blessed wonderful positive day.

Josiah Is Here!

Josiah Michael Jefferson, born 27 June 2008 at 8 pounds 15 ounces, 20 and 1/2 inches long. We are so happy to announce that mother Tessa, father, Jefferson and family all welcome in our newest bundle of joy.

Being the grand mother is especially nice. I am just so happy. Since this is now my second baby this year, I am happy to say, being the grandmother is especially nice.

Of course all of the kids are thrilled! Our family is growing so much!

Daughter and grand daughter Amani, just arrived... I will be back later for reflection.

Happy Friday to You

Hey, How are you!??? I hope that you'll say something!

This morning I go in to the hospital to greet yet another grand child. Schedule to induce labor at @7:30am! I will have pictures tomorrow. This makes the second grand child this year!!!! WOW! It's been wonderful. And this time it's going to be a boy. They are naming him Josiah! Cute huh? You'll find his name at 1Kings22:8! He was a king! Thank God by His grace in Christ.

Well, until later, Keep your head up, things can always get better! So Keep Smiling!

My Grand Daughter

Hey! I am very glad that you stopped in to visit. I hope that you'll stay a while, and learn what I am all about! My Grand Daughter's is for sure, one of those things that make my life richer. And everytime I see them I pull out the cameras. I use a small compact digital 6mp, and I have a Canon 8mp SLR!

Trying to catch my grand daughter smiling with the bigger camera requires tripod, lights, etc., but with the little compact it's just point and click... hence, I am able to catch her while I am up close and personal. When I get near her, and she hears my voice, she smiles! And the more I google her, the more she smiles. Hence, I caught her in full smile!!! Isn't it great.

Now I am going to have that picture printed up. And you know, I don't mind using online companies. Recently, I found Clark color labs, and you know their prices are very reasonable. Infact, I don't think that I have found a better price online to date. So when I look to get my pictures printed, I am going to use Clark color labs. Why not? Their printing is great, they are cost effective, and it saves me gas having to run to the drug store for pictures. I can get them mailed to my home via mail. To me that's just good sense.

Saving money from gas. check. $.08 cents a copy. check. Quality printing. check. Why would I chose anyplace else. I chose Clark color labs. Why don't you give it a try?

GrandMother Haven

Hello and how are you? I was on a temporary assignment recently when I found myself going out of the house to earn money. I loved it. But it did make me very fatigued. I am handicapped you know. So now, I have some time, I can come back in and attend to my favorite place, my grand mother heaven! Oh my girls are doing so well. Amani is smiling, just such a happy child, and Faith is swimming, rather, treading water. With the weather so hot, and the price of gas so high, we found ourselves out at the lake this past weekend.

It was great. We played ball, cards, swimming, we even took the dog in the water. No camera's though. I cannot afford to have my camera ruined by water, so I didn't get any pictures, but what a great time we had.

I found out this past weekend that by the 1st of July, I will have another grand child! A boy. I cannot wait. They are such a joy to have in life.

Until tomorrow, Enjoy your evening, and keep smiling.

Life is Wonderful

I hope that you have a wonderful day. This morning I received a beautiful postcard from Phong Canh Viet Nam - the picture is of Big Egg Hill! The sender sent me this card with a beautiful opening of dreaming. I need to admit here, that I had quit dreaming. But no more. Faith teaches us that we not only need to dream, but dreaming brings about the hopes without ever having been. Glory. I am thankful to God this morning, because yet, I am going to dream!

And to the writer of the card, I wish a beautiful day.

http://www.24hourwebcash.com/jefferson4410

Good day to you!

Hey How are you???

With our hope for the future, President Elect Obama, I think that all should be right with the world...Right?, but that's just not possible while the cost of gasoline is bleeding our income dry. We would have had money for travel, but who wants to get on the road with the gas prices like they are. It's costing 3/4 of a hundred dollars for a tank of gas, and just to get back and forth to work, that means that we have to fill up every week... $75.00 a week, just to get to work, some people pay even more than me. I am afraid that inward we are all feeling stretched. Like a rubberband that is stretching and getting old, where there are small hairline tares in the band. It has a limited amount of time before it breaks, and who knows what that point is... but there've been some horrible things happen when people are pushed and stressed and don't have a way out.

I don't know what will happen when the weather gets hotter, and the deep summer is upon us. But, my hope to continue working this little part time job seems to be working out.

My baby grand daughter, Amani, will soon have her ears pierced. She's smiling like crazy! She's a happy baby.

My relationship with my God is getting stronger every day. The more I lean on him, the less I feel the stress of what's going on. As long as I pay my mortgage, get to work, and spend time with my family I think all is right with my life. Of course, there's a lot more to it than that, but that's the part that's getting better.

Having been out of the work force for more than five years, I am just happy to be able to work part time. Things really are looking up around the house.

As far as having to maintain my pain, I do... and that means that I don't get to sit down and use my computer as much as I use to, so when I am here, I have to make the best of it.

Word for the day...
Phillipians 4:13 - I can do all things through Christ Who strengthens me.

Have a wonderful day, leave me a note. I'll answer you you know!

What a World

What type of legacy are we going to leave our Grand Children? What type of world are we leaving for our children? If your children are young and impressionable now, good. Because that's the one place where parents still have something to say about what they live... but if you have teens, I feel for you.

My children were teenagers during the time when gang violence was issue. My own son became involved, and as a result got a GED instead of a graduating from high school. #1, In the 7th grade, he was the one kid in the class that was bold enough to write "B___H" on a T-Shirt that the kids were presenting to the teacher. That caused him to get kicked out of school on the last day. But did I chastise him. Sure, I whooped him, but did it stop him from what he was doing? No. We were in church, and I had ministers counseling him, I took him to see a psychiatrist, I grounded him for days on end, but his behavior didn't stop until he went into a California Boys Ranch for stealing a car. Those were some very rough days. What could I have done different?

Last week, I heard in the news, that a man was ordered to either paddle his child, (a girl) or pay a $500.00 fine. What? Whoopin my sons behind didn't stop him from his behavior. And believe me, for two years, we sat around the dining room table counseling him, day in and day out... it didn't stop him from doing what he was doing.

Then one day as my Sister-In-Law was on her way to my mother's house, she drove up on a group of boys just whooping my son. I met them at the hospital, he chipped his front tooth that day... He was angry and to be really honest. I didn't know this boy. This wasn't the same boy that I played with when he was five or six years old. When he was still innocent. It makes me cry to remember our first years together... then to see what we had become. And I was raised old school. I tried to implement that same discipline on my own children, but I am here to tell you, they didn't work.

Now my son is nearly 30, and he can be found at the gray-bar. I cry about that, and I sometimes feel very inadequate at parenting, and won't give anyone advice about what to do during the parenting teenage years. Because all the ways that I believed would work, didn't. My son and I hated each other, and if you think that didn't effect my relationship with my other two children you're wrong, it did.

I said all that to say, that was then, and now, I see grown up school administrators fighting with students (that could have been my own son), but that's just one of the issues that is very wrong in this nation. Is John McCain going to be able to understand young parents? Or has he gone past that? Is John McCain going to be able to review the prison systems and how their being so overcrowded that they don't have the resources to take care of their basic needs? Is John McCain going to be able to address issues of Medical Care, or does he even care, since he's more about keeping things as status quo of what President Bush has left them. And what's the point of a free election if people who are democratic would vote in a status quo over a man who presents change, no matter how young he is. Bobby Kennedy was a young man, that didn't stop people from coming together to support him. John F Kennedy was a young man, and that didn't stop people from coming together to support him. Thank God that we have yet another opportunity to have a man who is obviously gifted to lay a hand at changing things. I hope that when the time comes to cast ballots, people will allow their hopes to guide them, and make the decision for change. Barrach Obama, We can Change.

Part Time Temp

Click Here!

After having spent the past 25 years in pain with fibromyalgia, surgery for bone spurs in my neck, and finally a fusion in my L4-5 twice, I am so happy to say that, there is life after Social Security Disability Disqualification. It's by no means, going to make me wealthy, but it gives me back my dignity. Not only that, the few dollars that I make every day gives me such a satisfaction of "job well done", I just cannot tell you what it does for me altogether. But know this; I am happy.

After having spent the past 8 months online looking for "making money from home", and not getting anything but losing money on one scheme after another, I finally can start paying off those large credit cards that have been trying to pay for a way to actually make money.

Now I know that there must be a way to make money online, but for sure, If I don't come up with it, I don't expect anyone else to come up with it for me.

In the meantime, I am taking control of my own destiny by getting out of the house, and working for somebody else. And I feel good about it.

My grand daughters seem to be doing ok. At least when I see them on the weekend. I don't get to see them as often now that I am working, and I do sort of miss that. This last weekend when I saw Faith and Amani, they both looked different. Like they grew while I was a work... par for the course, eh?

And now, the biggest relief, Barrack Obama won the democratic nomination!!!! HALLELUIA!!! His speech was so good. He has to be the best speaker that I have heard since Martin Luther King. And Barrack's words just resonate within me about changing this country. I had so much respect for him giving Hillary Rodham Clinton credit for her race, and her role in changing the face of healthcare for children. He gave John McCain credit for his Service and his role in running the race for president. But even better than all that, Barrack nailed his speech, when he said that "We are all Americans, first!" I cried. I mean, he just touches my soul and I cannot understand why there are those who say that since Hilary didn't win, they will vote for McCain. Are they crazy? Are they enjoying the state of this nation? Obviously, they must be racist. Because, I believe that since Barrack never brought up race, his total demeanor is not on race, but rather on change for everyone. I feel priviledged to have been able to hear his speech 1st run! Hurray for democrats!

Well, I better get up, gotta get to work, oh, I just remembered, Hillary should not be given the opportunity for the second seat... Vice president is not a consolation prize. That's all I got to say about that! GO BARRACK!

PASSIONATE!

The other day when I posted those thoughts on Customer Service Representatives, I felt truly passionate. I mean, I spent my days on a job, doing my best to help the customer, an advocate for the customer, and then I see an article where they just give you a bad name? No it was not like that. When I work for said company, it was the customer who mistreat Customer Service Reps! And I stand by what I say!

Anyway, Last week, was the baby shower for Tessa. Unfortunately, I haven't had the chance to post the pictures, but I'll just say, pictures to come soon.

On Mother's day, we had a beautiful day. And then Amani, my newest grand daughter sat for her first picture sitting.

I am going to have to include more of the pictures of Amani and Tessa, as she's getting so big, like about to POP!!!

Of course, I have the best of Grandmother days, since my daughter is taking care of her older daughter, I finally have the opportunity to just be grandmother!!! What a blessing. I never knew that quiet was so precious. I never thought that I would have the opportunity to think... just sit and have thoughts.

I can now take a shower, and no little person is busting through the door! I can close the doors to keep one room cool, and they stay closed!!! And most important, I can watch programs that have adult material! WOW:)

Customer Service Nightmares

Good Morning,

This morning, I am shining and beaming. What in the world has happened in Customer Service? Why can't people be nice to people over the phone? Weren't they taught phone etiquette?

I am a former employee of the company that ranks ______, I won't say on the list of ten. And I admit, that I am not shocked. The list, according to MSN Money Magazine...

AOL.
Comcast.
Sprint Nextel.
Abercrombie & Fitch's.
Qwest.
Capital One.
Bank of America.
Time Warner.
HSBC Finance.
Cox Communications.

This list of Customer Service Nightmares doesn't surprise me; but let me tell you what I know from having been employed with said... People call up screaming and yelling like you killed their dog. I mean, don't they know the golden rule of honey versus venum? Then when you explain to them what they already knew, because I assure you, when you don't pay your bill, you will hear about it... whether it's phone service or money issues, you will have to pay the toll to continue to receive service. And they are yelling at you like they haven't done anything wrong. So when the customer service representative receives this type of customer, 1st, just let me say that the company I worked for would not allow me to hang up on the customer that just cussed me six way from sunday. I had to stay on the line and allow that customer to rant as long as they want. Then in a calm and knowledgeable voice, I'd pull up their account information and of course, there'd be a discrimination, but usually, I'd say; 8 times out of 10, the customer would be wrong. They exceeded something, or they didn't pay.

Now, I am only standing in defense of these companies because I know that it isn't the customer service representatives that have been ill meaning or out of line. It's the customers. Mind you, there are those customer service representatives that don't follow the rules, and believe me when I say, they are weeded out immediately. They do screen those calls, and when the customer service representative behaves badly, they are terminated without question. But for the most part, the customer service representatives are receiving the worst rap. DON'T BELIEVE EVERYTHING YOU READ OR HEAR. I am sure that you've heard that before, but I'd say, after reading MSN Money's article, that they are WRONG. And they need to send out their reporter to do a little more investigating because they are pushing some big money customer's opinion, and it's not always right.

BEFORE YOU BELIEVE THIS, CHECK FOR YOURSELF! That's all I am saying.

I cannot believe how passionate I feel about this. But being a Professional Customer Service Representative, I know. But do the research yourself!
Then leave me some comments what you think!

Mother's Day is Passed on and Father's Day is

Now right around the corner! I love my Father. Who doesn't? My dad isn't just my Dad, he helps others in the community as well as my brothers' and myself. He never fails to give me good advice when I need it. And more than anything else, I know that my Dad loves me.

I would like to honor him at this place, and during this time. If I had my life to do all over again, I wouldn't do anything different when it comes to my dealings with my Dad. He's strong. He's courageous. He's understanding. And most importantly, when I am weak and hurting, I don't even have to tell him, it's like he senses it and consoles me when I need it without criticism. I appreciate that so much.

So this year, Honor your Father. Let him know that he's special, and needed in your life. Love your father.

Mother's Day

Mother's Day is right around the corner. And you know how important it is. I mean, who doesn't want to remember their mothers' on Mother's day?

Certainly not me. And my mother loves jewelry, as do I. My daughter is a different subject. I am remembering that last year I gave her a diamond ring, and today she doesn't know where it is. At least that's what she tells me. You don't just lost a diamond ring. She knows where it is. But something won't allow her to tell me. And that hurts. I raised her to be independent, and then when she shows independence, I want her to talk with me about her life. But she doesn't. Unfortunately, I don't think that she trusts me. And for the life of me, I cannot figure out why! I have always been there for her when she needed me.

But, Mother's day is coming in about a week and a half, and I want her to know that she's special. Faith, and Amani both look to her for all their hopes and encouragement. And isn't that part of what mother's do. Encourage, and raise hopes for their children to grow into. To teach their children love, and patience. I want my daughter to know without a shadow of doubt that I love her.

And while it seems that we continually argue, that's what families do. I still want her to know that she's a special mom. She's the Mom that my grand daughters will look up to. She's their hope, their God.

For all the mothers and daughters that don't quite get along, never fret. Love is eternal, and Mother's Love is Agape'.

That ring is georgeous!

I love Jewelry. Truly. It comforts me when I am all alone, and sparkles when I find myself outdoors. What it doesn't do is keep me warm when I am cold. It's not something that will allow my gas to go further. And it doesn't help me solve the bigger issues like, will my children do the right thing. But when all those things frustrate me, my jewelry makes me feel special! Wierd huh? Well it's the same thing with trying something new. Right now I am in the process of trying something new.

And until I get it right, I am unable to speak about it. But know that life does give us newness each and every day!

Grandmother's With Time

Good Morning,

It's been a few days now since my last loggin, and since I didn't get any comments on the cute shoes, I thought I would come back in and make comments myself.

My daughter doesn't live with me anymore. So, I don't see my grand daughter as often as I use to. I haven't seen her since Tuesday, and then she was anxious to get home to her baby sister and her mother! The nice part about that is that she's spent such a small time with her mother in the past 3 years. I have been taking care of her for nearly 3 (three) years, and now my daughter steps in and starts taking responsibility for her, and I am just not in the picture. For me, the time has come now when I get to be a grand mother. Don't get me wrong, I am not unhappy about that, but I am feeling a bit of the empty nest syndrome. But I am thankful that I have so many other interests and hobbies.

I am pretty sure that this is normal. I can think off all those days that I wanted to write, or read, or just be quiet, and now I can. The quietness that I was so seeking is such a pleasure right now. I am knitting a Vogue scarf, and it's wonderful to just sit quietly and knit.

This month is Jazz Appreciation month. I hope that you enjoy your jazz! I certainly do!

New Shoes

What woman doesn't like shoes? I never really could get into it in times past. If you know anything about me up to now, you know that I have had lower back problems, concluded with 2 fusion surgical procedures. I haven't worn heels in (literally) years! Recently, I've been trying that kitten heel, and just in the past two weeks, I tried some wedges! HAA LE LUUU YA!!! Haleluia, Haleluia! I can have sexy feet again! Check it out. I got these shoes off ebay - you'll never guess the price...


$.99 cents!!!! Call me crazy, but my big feet not only fit into these shoes but they are comfortable, and I want the whole world to know, just because you have some physical issues no longer means that you cannot look cute about the feet!!!!



Leave me a note, tell me what you think!!!!

As I stated before, this is my thang... you know... my something better! Everytime I hit that button that says, "publish post", I become more! My life has a place to go. If one day I don't return, it's probably going to have to come to them finding my posts online, and putting the pieces together of exactly who I was... and it's probably good to understand right now, they won't get it right, unless I make it plain in my column. "This is who I am, and It's my Thang!"

Anyway, I have been considering selling my jewelry. Not like I have so much; up till now, I would normally give it away to a good friend that will one day remember me or something! If you have read any of my other columns, then you know that Social Security Disability Administration denied my request for assistance, leaving me with no choice except to start selling the things that I have accumulated in life for money.

I am coming to the conclusion that the things aren't as important as I make them out to be, where as, there may be someone out there, who might find some importance, and care about my things as much as I do.

I am a collector of books. I read a lot of them, but not all of them. Some of them I just have because at the time, I thought I wanted to read it. Anyway, it's time for me to sell them. If they find the right owner then I have done my part to pass on what I have to someone else.

Wish me luck. I really need a change.

IT'S A GIRL

Isn't she lovely? Isn't she just wonderful?!!!! She was born the 19th of March 2008, at 5:13pm CDT. She weighed in at 6 pounds and 7 ounces, and she was 18 1/2 inches long. What a beautiful gift. Well worth the nine month wait. But as my husband stated, now the real Drama begins!

First off... her name, My daughter decided to give her our last name, then his, and he's already upset about that... what next? I hope they can work it out, because now they start pushing that boulder up the mountain, and the mountain just got a lot bigger!

In other news, there's nothing new to report, unless you consider having your water laced with salmonella nothing. Last report I heard, over 100 people are now sick with this bug. I bet they are all wishing they had a water purifier attached to their home now. Well, it's never to late actually. You can probably give Rainsoft Water Treatment systems a call today, and get your water tested at no charge. Then you can sit back and relax because your water will be the purest water on the planet.

I know that's a pretty big claim, but after 20 years of having the Rainsoft Water Treatment System in my home, I am pretty sure that I can now afford to be definitive on this matter. Don't delay, give them a call!

Finally, if jewelry is something you love as much as I do you just cannot miss the special prices offered by the Jewelry Box! Check it out!

Today's the day

It's a good day to be born today! The weather is clearing up, oh, it's wet outside alright; it's rained for the past two days, but today, there's a clearing, and the sun will appear here in just a few moments.

My daughter called last night, at about 2:00am, saying her water broke. So she headed on over to the hospital with baby daddy, Tricia, Amani's auntie! I called when I woke up this morning, and she said that they were just getting ready to move her to a room where they were going to induce labor, so I don't have a lot of time, but soon, Amani will make her entrance into our world! I'll be back later with more!

DON'T WORRY BE HAPPY

Hello and Welcome to my webspace. I have been contemplating long what it actually means to be a grand parent. And "don't worry, be happy", must be right at the top of the list.

Remembering back when my children were young, I worried over everything, such as; what's for dinner?, Will my children survive public education?, and even more importantly, "Will my offspring become responsible adults????!!!" The latter being the most pondered question. But, the years moved so quickly into the future, I played the entire life on a per day basis. I didn't look to the future, I simply held up each day as though that were the most important day of all.

The entire time that I just lived, one day at a time, the world evolved. Crime, which was pretty rampid then, became even poorer. My son's were just getting into junior high school when the "gangs" started taking over our neighborhoods. And it was difficult at best, to keep them from the influence of that karma. Oh, we went to church, we studied our bible, and we practiced tolerance, but somehow, the outside influences still affected my sons. While we spent time lecturing and caring for their welfare, we were not open to the forces that were attacking our daughter. As their lives rolled through the years, there was pain that was felt in all. Our family time became non-existent. Our family was torn apart, and everyone knows what happens when you can't control your youth.

I don't say all of this because it's good, or decent, or a wretched story. I say all of this, because, after going through all that, I know that, I cannot worry over how my kids, who are now having kids, take care of them.

As a grand parent, I just don't worry, and try to continually be happy around my grand children, because there are only moments when I sustain influence. Mostly, like my own children, while they are young. Those are the only times that I have seen thus far.

And while, I watch movies, of families who spent their summers by the lake, enjoying family reunions, and togetherness, that wasn't my family. And I don't think that I loved my children any less, I just didn't have all the priviledges that those families had. So while their children grew up into responsible adults, my kids spent time in Juvenile Detention centers. We spent our weekends visiting Boy's Ranches. We cried a lot, we were depressed a lot, and we were ashamed a lot.

But, grand children also bring hope for a family. Hope that things will change. Hope that you can do some things different. And while I have one grand child, 8 now, and one, soon to be born, I know that if I just don't worry, and be happy, I might shed some light on them, and where I have the strongest influence, use it to teach them wonder, nature, and light... rather than depression, darkness, and shame.

Since I am among many grand parents who are taking a definitive hand in raising their grand children, I know that we will make a difference. The moral fibre that was lost back in the 1980's, 1990's, and early 2000's has it's greatest chance to come back now. Because even young people having babies can see the errors made loud and clear. I hope that working together we can make a difference, not worrying.

This is not a script. This is just a thought for future reference of this blog. Just one of the reasons that blogging is allowing me the freedom of my past. Like a broken china doll, I am being reassembled, but instead of with glue, I am miraculously finding all the pieces that make me whole, and growing into a stronger, more beautiful Vase, allowing the character from the inside bloom for all to see on the outside.

Aleasha's Something Better

While I await the birth of my second grandchild, I can't help but wonder what I have learned through the years leading up to the joy of my grand children.