Confession Time
Last week we took JD's Grand Am to Grand Island for my Nephew. He was needing a different car. We also had to pick up Karrea from my mom and dads place. (Grandma took KC to the Nebraska State Fair to see the Draft Horse Show!)
We got to Russell's house before Shell and Russ arrived. It was sodie time. When Russ walked into his home he came over to me, gave me a hug, and said "Dang Shay, you look really good!"
I have to tell you it made my day! For a second! (hear the big sigh!)
A little voice said 'if he only knew!'
You see, since I have started writing my book I have taken up a comforting habit. Cinnamon popcorn! Yep!
It all started when Ron bought a bag of VIC's caramel corn. Then he picked up a bag of Cinnamon Popcorn. The afternoon snack turned into a compulsion when I got to the chapter in my book about visiting VICS popcorn on a regular basis with "Toby". He would let me pick out any flavor I wanted. It was always "too expensive" for my family to buy, but "Toby" loved to treat me! I was finding myself back into that "feeling" of being treated! Each kernel was crisp, spicy, but sweet! Just like the time I was with "Toby"! Just thinking about it, and tattling on myself makes me cry!
I have taught many folks that you need to get to the root of why you are overweight! You need to figure out what and why that food may trigger you. I found a new trigger food. As "EJ" would say..."a fire starter"
I have gained a few extra comfort pounds! But I also say to the members that "comfort food" is an oxymoron. "Comfort food" is NOT comfortable! To be truly comfortable it takes nutritional macronutrients, like Protein, and Produce, and a Healthy carb!
Russell, I appreciate your kind words to me! I really did make my day. I know that an extra 4 pounds doesn't make a huge difference to some people, but to me it does. It could mean JOB or NO JOB! It was the kick start I needed to figure out how to fix this "WHAT AND WHY" I have been struggling to work through.
I have talked to "Toby" earlier this year. Like any other relationship I have been in, I have mostly remembered the good things. This particular guy, I just have to have faith that God knew what He was doing when I broke it off. The first time I heard Garth Brooks song "Unanswered Prayer" I bawled like a baby! I was married and I was trying really hard not to struggle by my past. Its different when you have had someone else's child though. Deep breathe!
I am here to say that I have been clean for 5 days. I have had no cravings. I even have a bag of Cinnamon popcorn in my office. The end date is in October, so I have time! HA.
It feels good to be clean eating again! It only took me three days! I encourage everyone to just pull up your boot straps and give yourself 3 days of healthy eating! By then you will have built up your success mechanism.
WE can DO THIS!
Thursday, August 31, 2017
Saturday, August 5, 2017
I sit in my 2007 Ford Mustang and enjoy the breeze, and the sun peeking in! It was raining earlier. Julie, LeAnne and myself were practically running to our cars after the Weight Watcher meeting. We had 47 members today. 43 members stayed and supported each other; gave one another ideas of how to get their fruits and veggies in.
I was the green bean and corn girl. "Tomatoes make you sterile" was a message I received from my college boyfriend Jim. Mushrooms are fungus! Onions are slimy. Cucumbers get bitter. Celery gets stuck in my teeth. Carrots make your lips orange. Green peppers haunt me all day. Remind me over mom's stuffed peppers and the years I would throw up on them because my gag reflux worked on DEMAND.
Blanche, bless her heart, was my Weight Watcher leader. I would boo hoo to her when the scale didn't move in the right direction. She not only had her weight to worry about but I made her worry about mine too. It took my broken heart to be able to soak up her counsel in the cracks. When I was doing good, I didn't need to listen. I needed to talk. When I did "bad" I was super quiet in the group and that is when the lessons soaked in deeper than before.
Blanche had done the program about 20 years by the time I tip toed into the weight watcher meeting at St. James Square. I looked up to her, even though she is only about 4'11 or possibly 5'0. She was the grandma I didn't have. She took me aside and suggested that I broaden the horizons on 0 Pt foods. What?? Veggies? I do. I eat 1 or 2 cans of green beans a day. Iceburg lettuce and I are friends with about 1/4 cup of homemade ranch dressing. Blanche, if you tell me I can't have ranch I will walk out this door and you will NEVER SEE ME! She assured me I could in moderation, and make my own, just thin it up a bit. Now I use 1 1/4 cup Fairlife skim (2SP per 8oz...13grms protein and 8 sugars instead of skim milk 13 sugars 8 proteins), 3/4 Cup Real Hellman's Mayo, and 3 Tbls Ranch dry (sometimes the fiesta ranch dry) and voila! 2 SP per serving.
I took her advice. I started putting veggies on my Subway sandwich. I mean anything with bread and cheese is doable. Here was my foot long turkey: wheat, cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, pickles, banana peppers, black olives, extra lettuce, and SPINACH leaves! eeekkk!! don't forget provolone cheese with ranch! YAY! It was basically a 20 Pt sandwich. I had them to use. I only ate a cup of oatmeal for breakfast! or maybe a bagel with some FF cream cheese.
Boy...have I learned so much more than that! I suffered. I plateaud forever. I even gained, and was totally frustrated. I wasn't doing anyone any favors. BUT I DID try new veggies. Now with Smart points fruit is also 0 pts. I do find myself grabbing more and more fruits and veggies these days. That is a key to a Healthy BMI for the rest of your life! One of the routines we learned in WW 360 was to have produce with every meal and snack. I teach that now! Why? Because its essential, and its a real struggle for most people.
Produce with every meal and snack= SATIETY, VITAMINS, MINERALS, PHYTONUTRIENTS, FIBER, FILLING, ENERGY, LOVE! When you blend your fruits and veggies you lose the Fiber:Soluble and Insoluble. You will get nutrition, and sugar. Our bodies need to chew! If you do choose to blend, you have to count the fruits and veggies into your Smart Points and if you are simply filling, you have to take them out of your weeklies. I'm just the messenger!
Come and visit more often and I will give you some more Holistic Self Care ideas. Mind:Body:Spirt!
I was the green bean and corn girl. "Tomatoes make you sterile" was a message I received from my college boyfriend Jim. Mushrooms are fungus! Onions are slimy. Cucumbers get bitter. Celery gets stuck in my teeth. Carrots make your lips orange. Green peppers haunt me all day. Remind me over mom's stuffed peppers and the years I would throw up on them because my gag reflux worked on DEMAND.
Blanche, bless her heart, was my Weight Watcher leader. I would boo hoo to her when the scale didn't move in the right direction. She not only had her weight to worry about but I made her worry about mine too. It took my broken heart to be able to soak up her counsel in the cracks. When I was doing good, I didn't need to listen. I needed to talk. When I did "bad" I was super quiet in the group and that is when the lessons soaked in deeper than before.
Blanche had done the program about 20 years by the time I tip toed into the weight watcher meeting at St. James Square. I looked up to her, even though she is only about 4'11 or possibly 5'0. She was the grandma I didn't have. She took me aside and suggested that I broaden the horizons on 0 Pt foods. What?? Veggies? I do. I eat 1 or 2 cans of green beans a day. Iceburg lettuce and I are friends with about 1/4 cup of homemade ranch dressing. Blanche, if you tell me I can't have ranch I will walk out this door and you will NEVER SEE ME! She assured me I could in moderation, and make my own, just thin it up a bit. Now I use 1 1/4 cup Fairlife skim (2SP per 8oz...13grms protein and 8 sugars instead of skim milk 13 sugars 8 proteins), 3/4 Cup Real Hellman's Mayo, and 3 Tbls Ranch dry (sometimes the fiesta ranch dry) and voila! 2 SP per serving.
I took her advice. I started putting veggies on my Subway sandwich. I mean anything with bread and cheese is doable. Here was my foot long turkey: wheat, cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, pickles, banana peppers, black olives, extra lettuce, and SPINACH leaves! eeekkk!! don't forget provolone cheese with ranch! YAY! It was basically a 20 Pt sandwich. I had them to use. I only ate a cup of oatmeal for breakfast! or maybe a bagel with some FF cream cheese.
Boy...have I learned so much more than that! I suffered. I plateaud forever. I even gained, and was totally frustrated. I wasn't doing anyone any favors. BUT I DID try new veggies. Now with Smart points fruit is also 0 pts. I do find myself grabbing more and more fruits and veggies these days. That is a key to a Healthy BMI for the rest of your life! One of the routines we learned in WW 360 was to have produce with every meal and snack. I teach that now! Why? Because its essential, and its a real struggle for most people.
Produce with every meal and snack= SATIETY, VITAMINS, MINERALS, PHYTONUTRIENTS, FIBER, FILLING, ENERGY, LOVE! When you blend your fruits and veggies you lose the Fiber:Soluble and Insoluble. You will get nutrition, and sugar. Our bodies need to chew! If you do choose to blend, you have to count the fruits and veggies into your Smart Points and if you are simply filling, you have to take them out of your weeklies. I'm just the messenger!
Come and visit more often and I will give you some more Holistic Self Care ideas. Mind:Body:Spirt!
Thursday, August 23, 2012
I have to tell you that life sure does throw you curve balls that hit you right in the guts!!! My first reaction with the gut buster is to crawl up into the fetal position and suck my thumb. (Yes, I have done this a couple of times during my adult life).
This last gut buster was exhausting and I could feel that "despair" come on and I just fell to my knees and said God PLEASE SPEAK TO ME. You know my personality, you know why Satan is doing this, so please, I'm asking for your wisdom. What should I do?
I crawled into bed with tears streaming down my face. I turned the old Iphone to the Lds scriptures. I said to Ron, what I said in my prayers and he showed me a scripture. Oddly enough I was on the same verse in my reading. I read the chapter 4 times but couldn't quite get what the Lord would be telling me. It was about Mosiah telling the people they really didn't want a KING and the disadvantages of that tradition.
I didn't settle for that. I said OKAY GOD, I'll get my paper scriptures out. I have a military Book Of Mormon that is on the bed stand. I took the gum wrapper out of it, Pressed it together tightly to keep that particular page from opening, KWIM? and Said.....Please talk to me God.
The scripture opened to Alma Chapter 17. Be of Good Comfort.
I slept very soundly that night (after I finally fell asleep) and for that I'm grateful. Have I told you lately that God is Good? Well, He is. God Speaks, Do You Listen? If you feel like God doesn't hear you? then you are not listening. He answers our prayers in several ways 1. Scripture reading. 2. In your heart 3. Audible in your ear as if he were standing right there. 4. Pictures in your mind 5. By a true friend 6. an impression to read an article, and so on. Be aware of those things that God shares with you, and he will continue to share with you. If you ignore him, he will not bless you with his time. Parents know what I'm talking about.
Have a blessed Friday!!
This last gut buster was exhausting and I could feel that "despair" come on and I just fell to my knees and said God PLEASE SPEAK TO ME. You know my personality, you know why Satan is doing this, so please, I'm asking for your wisdom. What should I do?
I crawled into bed with tears streaming down my face. I turned the old Iphone to the Lds scriptures. I said to Ron, what I said in my prayers and he showed me a scripture. Oddly enough I was on the same verse in my reading. I read the chapter 4 times but couldn't quite get what the Lord would be telling me. It was about Mosiah telling the people they really didn't want a KING and the disadvantages of that tradition.
I didn't settle for that. I said OKAY GOD, I'll get my paper scriptures out. I have a military Book Of Mormon that is on the bed stand. I took the gum wrapper out of it, Pressed it together tightly to keep that particular page from opening, KWIM? and Said.....Please talk to me God.
The scripture opened to Alma Chapter 17. Be of Good Comfort.
I slept very soundly that night (after I finally fell asleep) and for that I'm grateful. Have I told you lately that God is Good? Well, He is. God Speaks, Do You Listen? If you feel like God doesn't hear you? then you are not listening. He answers our prayers in several ways 1. Scripture reading. 2. In your heart 3. Audible in your ear as if he were standing right there. 4. Pictures in your mind 5. By a true friend 6. an impression to read an article, and so on. Be aware of those things that God shares with you, and he will continue to share with you. If you ignore him, he will not bless you with his time. Parents know what I'm talking about.
Have a blessed Friday!!
Tuesday, August 14, 2012
I have really missed blogging, or journaling. I may just have to play catch up. I read over my last post in march and well, quite frankly it was the calm before the storm, so to speak.
A lot has happened since that last post.
I have been on an emotional roller coaster. Lets see.......what has happened in the past 5 months.
Adrienne, Chris and Q-man came to visit. The stay wasn't as long as I wanted it to be, but beggars can't be choosy.
Shai graduated High School. Fun time at our house. She had friends and family and ice cream and cookies. Who wouldn't enjoy that combo?
Justice and Karrea got out of school, and the fun, and fighting began!!
I quit my job at the hospital. The greatest news in MY personal life. Toughest decision to make though. Money talks. I haven't regretted it YET.
Started working For Ron with Heaven's Best carpet cleaning and subbing a lot for weight watchers. Doing some extra training on the computers in Grand Island and Hastings.
Got my temple recommend taken away. That took some soul searching.
What else has happened since March?
My brother Roger got remarried, again. He seems happy this time.
His daughter Miranda moved in with him. They seem happy. Its a foreign place, I hope she gives God a chance.
Russell, Shel and Lucas are living in Nebraska.
Lyle is back in Nebraska.
Its amazing what five months can do for someone.
I have been enjoying my calling in the young women's. Amazing young ladies who teach me a lot of different things and I get to share some deep experiences with them, and I hope the feel the spirit as I love and teach them.
This Friday Shai moves into her college dorm, and she has her first big concert at Harmon park. I'm so excited for her. I'll be sure and sit in the back row because usually when she sings I cry and if she sees me crying she starts to choke up. So I'll just sob in the pine trees, or over by the water fountain! that is a special place. when i was little I used to since and dance on that stage! GO SHAI!!! If i had the money I would support you 100 percent.
Justice has a car now. Ron bought him a 1994 Pontiac Firebird. Its teal and they are bonding! I'm happy for him. He has learned its hard work, and it takes cold hard cash to get something up to par.
Karrea is getting ready for school, and I'm excited for the new year. I hope she has a great time.
Justice will be a freshman which means he will be attending seminary. I hope he learns what the Lord has in store for him.
We have attending youth conference, and we have enjoyed the hot weather and now the cool weather of Nebraska. God has truly been good to us.
WE have had our struggles, but prayers have been answered, and I got my temple recommend back and I believe I'm on the road to healing.
It feels good to write. Hopefully I won't stay away too long next time.
Happy August!!!
A lot has happened since that last post.
I have been on an emotional roller coaster. Lets see.......what has happened in the past 5 months.
Adrienne, Chris and Q-man came to visit. The stay wasn't as long as I wanted it to be, but beggars can't be choosy.
Shai graduated High School. Fun time at our house. She had friends and family and ice cream and cookies. Who wouldn't enjoy that combo?
Justice and Karrea got out of school, and the fun, and fighting began!!
I quit my job at the hospital. The greatest news in MY personal life. Toughest decision to make though. Money talks. I haven't regretted it YET.
Started working For Ron with Heaven's Best carpet cleaning and subbing a lot for weight watchers. Doing some extra training on the computers in Grand Island and Hastings.
Got my temple recommend taken away. That took some soul searching.
What else has happened since March?
My brother Roger got remarried, again. He seems happy this time.
His daughter Miranda moved in with him. They seem happy. Its a foreign place, I hope she gives God a chance.
Russell, Shel and Lucas are living in Nebraska.
Lyle is back in Nebraska.
Its amazing what five months can do for someone.
I have been enjoying my calling in the young women's. Amazing young ladies who teach me a lot of different things and I get to share some deep experiences with them, and I hope the feel the spirit as I love and teach them.
This Friday Shai moves into her college dorm, and she has her first big concert at Harmon park. I'm so excited for her. I'll be sure and sit in the back row because usually when she sings I cry and if she sees me crying she starts to choke up. So I'll just sob in the pine trees, or over by the water fountain! that is a special place. when i was little I used to since and dance on that stage! GO SHAI!!! If i had the money I would support you 100 percent.
Justice has a car now. Ron bought him a 1994 Pontiac Firebird. Its teal and they are bonding! I'm happy for him. He has learned its hard work, and it takes cold hard cash to get something up to par.
Karrea is getting ready for school, and I'm excited for the new year. I hope she has a great time.
Justice will be a freshman which means he will be attending seminary. I hope he learns what the Lord has in store for him.
We have attending youth conference, and we have enjoyed the hot weather and now the cool weather of Nebraska. God has truly been good to us.
WE have had our struggles, but prayers have been answered, and I got my temple recommend back and I believe I'm on the road to healing.
It feels good to write. Hopefully I won't stay away too long next time.
Happy August!!!
Saturday, March 17, 2012
Thursday at 5:49 I grabbed a folding chair and headed to the front of the Weight Watcher meeting. I could feel my heart pounding out of my chest. My heart was racing, it was starting to hurt to breath. I turned around to the members, took a really deep breath and then sat there in front of them. Looking at them.
'I QUIT. I CAN'T DO THIS ANYMORE. IT IS JUST TOO HARD FOR ME TO DO EVERYTHING THAT EVERYONE ASKS ME TO DO. I HAVE GAINED WAIT, AND I AM JUST FRUSTRATED SO I'M QUITTING.'
"How much have you gained?" asked one member.
'About a pound and a half over weight'.
"Well, we can all come up there and beat the crap out of you, that would help you get to goal!" was her response." LOL!!!
'I can't believe how my heart is racing. Its really hard for me to tell you this.'
Some members had tears in their eyes. "You can't leave us!" "Are you joking?" "This isn't funny!"
I looked at them with all the seriousness I had left and said.............DON'T WE ALL GET THIS WAY! Don't we all just want to give up and Quit!
We have to NIX THE NEGATIVE!
One of the members said I was so good I need to get the Best Actress Award. They truly believed I was walking out!
I feel like doing this to a lot of things in my life. Wait, Truth be told I have wanted to quit everything I have ever done.
I QUIT BEING A MOM. MY KIDS HATE ME ANYWAYS!
I QUIT WORKING AT THE HOSPITAL...I DON'T KNOW WHAT I'M DOING NOBODY TRAINED ME AND HEAVEN FOR BIDS I GET A COUPLE PHONE CALLS (from the principal for the 6 year old....AGAIN)
I QUIT GOING TO CHURCH. SO AND SO IS BARKING AT ME AGAIN! (PMS TIME FOR HER)
I QUIT BEING A WIFE, HE DOESN'T SEE TO MY NEEDS WHY SH OULD I GIVE HIM HIS NEEDS
I QUIT BEING A FRIEND, I'M TIRED OF PUTTING 100% AND ONLY RECEIVING 25% BACK
I QUIT DIETIING, I WANT TO EAT SUGAR AND NOT FEEL GUILTY
I QUIT BEING A DAUGHTER BECAUSE DAD IS NICER TO THE DAUGHTER IN LAWS
I QUIT BEING A DAUGHTER IN LAW BECAUSE THEY COULD CARE LESS IF I EXISTED OR NOT. THEY DON'T EVEN BOTHER WITH BIRTHDAY CARDS FOR THE KIDS, SO WHY SHOULD I CARE
I QUIT BEING A DAUGHTER OF GOD BECAUSE ITS JUST TOO HARD TO BE GOOD!
I QUIT I QUIT I QUIT BEING A SISTER BECAUSE THEY DON'T LISTEN ANYWAY AND ARE JUST HURTING THEMSELVES, I'M TIRED OF SITTING BACK AND WATCHING THEM DESTROY THEIR ETERNAL SELVES........WHY WOULD I PUT SO MUCH EFFORT INTO A RELATIONSHIP IF WE WON'T BE TOGETHER IN HEAVEN?
Why, I'm a quitter.
notice one thing I didn't quit. I didn't quit being a grandma! Big Sigh! I love you Q
'I QUIT. I CAN'T DO THIS ANYMORE. IT IS JUST TOO HARD FOR ME TO DO EVERYTHING THAT EVERYONE ASKS ME TO DO. I HAVE GAINED WAIT, AND I AM JUST FRUSTRATED SO I'M QUITTING.'
"How much have you gained?" asked one member.
'About a pound and a half over weight'.
"Well, we can all come up there and beat the crap out of you, that would help you get to goal!" was her response." LOL!!!
'I can't believe how my heart is racing. Its really hard for me to tell you this.'
Some members had tears in their eyes. "You can't leave us!" "Are you joking?" "This isn't funny!"
I looked at them with all the seriousness I had left and said.............DON'T WE ALL GET THIS WAY! Don't we all just want to give up and Quit!
We have to NIX THE NEGATIVE!
One of the members said I was so good I need to get the Best Actress Award. They truly believed I was walking out!
I feel like doing this to a lot of things in my life. Wait, Truth be told I have wanted to quit everything I have ever done.
I QUIT BEING A MOM. MY KIDS HATE ME ANYWAYS!
I QUIT WORKING AT THE HOSPITAL...I DON'T KNOW WHAT I'M DOING NOBODY TRAINED ME AND HEAVEN FOR BIDS I GET A COUPLE PHONE CALLS (from the principal for the 6 year old....AGAIN)
I QUIT GOING TO CHURCH. SO AND SO IS BARKING AT ME AGAIN! (PMS TIME FOR HER)
I QUIT BEING A WIFE, HE DOESN'T SEE TO MY NEEDS WHY SH OULD I GIVE HIM HIS NEEDS
I QUIT BEING A FRIEND, I'M TIRED OF PUTTING 100% AND ONLY RECEIVING 25% BACK
I QUIT DIETIING, I WANT TO EAT SUGAR AND NOT FEEL GUILTY
I QUIT BEING A DAUGHTER BECAUSE DAD IS NICER TO THE DAUGHTER IN LAWS
I QUIT BEING A DAUGHTER IN LAW BECAUSE THEY COULD CARE LESS IF I EXISTED OR NOT. THEY DON'T EVEN BOTHER WITH BIRTHDAY CARDS FOR THE KIDS, SO WHY SHOULD I CARE
I QUIT BEING A DAUGHTER OF GOD BECAUSE ITS JUST TOO HARD TO BE GOOD!
I QUIT I QUIT I QUIT BEING A SISTER BECAUSE THEY DON'T LISTEN ANYWAY AND ARE JUST HURTING THEMSELVES, I'M TIRED OF SITTING BACK AND WATCHING THEM DESTROY THEIR ETERNAL SELVES........WHY WOULD I PUT SO MUCH EFFORT INTO A RELATIONSHIP IF WE WON'T BE TOGETHER IN HEAVEN?
Why, I'm a quitter.
notice one thing I didn't quit. I didn't quit being a grandma! Big Sigh! I love you Q
Wednesday, August 31, 2011
Weight Watcher Leader Training
September 16, 2011 will be an adventure ride for me. I will be flying out of the Lincoln airport and venturing to Chicago. I will have 3 days to learn what I need to learn to be able to stand in front of a crowd and educate them on the Weight Watcher Program.
I am a bit nervous. I have wanted to do this for 9 years. A few months after I got on the weight watcher program I had the overwhelming urge to be BLANCHE. Blanche was the leader at the time. I knew she was nearing retirement. I thought she was spunky and full of life and energy. I know that bugged some people, but I always loved how I felt around Blanche. She is a great example to me. After Ron lost his Coleman job and he bought his own Hastings Business I started going to the Hastings meetings. There I met Deb. She was spunky, full of energy too. Life got a little busy and I quit going to the meetings. I gained 20 pounds, or more. I went back to the tuesday meeting but Blanche was retired and there were a couple of new ladies. Pam and Mary. Tuesday night wasn't cutting it for me and my friend Cindy. Cindy suggested we start going to Mary's meeting. What a breath of fresh air.
I came back but struggled to find my weight loss journey successful. That was August of 2010. After seeing Adrienne's wedding pictures I decided it was time to do something for myself again. I was at a stand still. Mary was great but my head wasn't doing very good. November rolled around and a new program came out with weight watchers. It took me about 2 months to get my head and heart wrapped around the new program. YES, You can teach an old dog new tricks. It just may take a little longer.
January the St. James Center closed and the meetings went to Just for Ladies. That was really frustrating. No parking, no place to sit, the ladies were wonderful but I was paying for a monthly pass but wasn't able to enjoy the meetings. Frustration was setting in again. Word got out that Just for Ladies meetings were moving to the Faith United Methodist Church. I was really excited. I was also approached by several of the ladies that worked at weight watchers to see if I was ready to Work for Weight watchers as a receptionist. The guidelines for that was to be 170 pounds. I was just barely getting to Dr. Goal and struggle to stay there with out gains every other week. My Dr. Goal is 176. I told them I would work on it.
I worked and worked. The only thing that worked was the prayers I said to the Lord. I told him my desires. I let him know the guidelines I needed to live by. By the Grace of God I made it to 170. I called Jennifer, the area manager. She interviewed me and found that I would be a great assest to the team. I told her that I would love to be a leader someday. She told me I had 6 months to get down to the Leader guideline for my heighth. 160. REALLY? I haven't seen 160 since I was a sophmore in High school. I continued to fast and pray for the strength to get over my weakness. On a daily basis I could feel the love and support of angels. The beginning of July I was able to call Jennifer and tell her I made it to Leader Goal. I was two months ahead of the 6months that she gave me. I am proud to say that I weigh 158. That is a lot compared to some of the other ladies that surround me. I am grateful. I am healthier today than I have been in years.
I started my weight watcher journey April of 2002. Through Prayer I received the answer that I desired. HOW DO I EAT? Go to weight watchers. I called up Debbie and we found the meeting room and we ventured out of our comfort zone. I lost 68 pounds. My start up weight was 243 pounds. In 2005 I got pregnant with Karrea. January of 2006 I got back into weight watchers and lost 50 pounds. I got to that Dr. Goal weight of 176. 2007 is when I received that goal weight. Ron sustained some back injuries and I had to help him. A voice clearly said to me, this is why you are as big as you are. So you can take care of Ron. I was finally FREE. I paid for about 5 years (remember, you can't go if you are pregnant :D). What a relief. I submitted my story into the SUCCESS contest and won 4 place in the nation, or our region. I am not sure. I got a few gift certificates, some food, a plant, and recognition. It was a real exciting time for me.
2008 rolled around and the stress of working with Ron doing carpet cleaning and not having an eating schedule I slowly gained 20 pounds. So from May to September I could feel the difference. I found myself a couple of meetings to attend. By January of 2009 I lost the 20 pounds. I kept it off for a few months and then the life happened again. From April to November 20 pounds creeped back on. I was too busy to go to meetings. By June of 2010 I was losing control of my eating. By the time I went back to weight watcher August of 2010 I was up to 198 pounds. I was so frustrated with myself. HOW COULD I DO THIS TO MYSELF. I KNOW BETTER! RIGHT?? UGH.
Here I am. Trying to be successful once again. I hit my free lifetime status in March, and started being a receptionist for weight watchers. I miss going to meetings but I love seeing the people and hopefully inspiring them in some shape or form. I am not perfect. If you see me in the grocery store I may have some "bad" chips or cookies in there. "If you bite it you write it" and nothing is off limits. "if you work the program, the program works for you!"
I cannot express the gratitude I have in my heart and soul. 1) for God giving me strength 2) my family being patient with me and fending for themselves when I can't fix another meal 3) the ladies at the Kearney weight watcher meetings that give me advice and strength and teach me the things I need to be successful 4) I am grateful the products that I get to buy to keep me on track. 5) I really appreciate the people that attend the meetings that help lift me up. I wouldn't be able to continue this journey if it wasn't for all the above. I know I'm missing others.
Thank you.
I am a bit nervous. I have wanted to do this for 9 years. A few months after I got on the weight watcher program I had the overwhelming urge to be BLANCHE. Blanche was the leader at the time. I knew she was nearing retirement. I thought she was spunky and full of life and energy. I know that bugged some people, but I always loved how I felt around Blanche. She is a great example to me. After Ron lost his Coleman job and he bought his own Hastings Business I started going to the Hastings meetings. There I met Deb. She was spunky, full of energy too. Life got a little busy and I quit going to the meetings. I gained 20 pounds, or more. I went back to the tuesday meeting but Blanche was retired and there were a couple of new ladies. Pam and Mary. Tuesday night wasn't cutting it for me and my friend Cindy. Cindy suggested we start going to Mary's meeting. What a breath of fresh air.
I came back but struggled to find my weight loss journey successful. That was August of 2010. After seeing Adrienne's wedding pictures I decided it was time to do something for myself again. I was at a stand still. Mary was great but my head wasn't doing very good. November rolled around and a new program came out with weight watchers. It took me about 2 months to get my head and heart wrapped around the new program. YES, You can teach an old dog new tricks. It just may take a little longer.
January the St. James Center closed and the meetings went to Just for Ladies. That was really frustrating. No parking, no place to sit, the ladies were wonderful but I was paying for a monthly pass but wasn't able to enjoy the meetings. Frustration was setting in again. Word got out that Just for Ladies meetings were moving to the Faith United Methodist Church. I was really excited. I was also approached by several of the ladies that worked at weight watchers to see if I was ready to Work for Weight watchers as a receptionist. The guidelines for that was to be 170 pounds. I was just barely getting to Dr. Goal and struggle to stay there with out gains every other week. My Dr. Goal is 176. I told them I would work on it.
I worked and worked. The only thing that worked was the prayers I said to the Lord. I told him my desires. I let him know the guidelines I needed to live by. By the Grace of God I made it to 170. I called Jennifer, the area manager. She interviewed me and found that I would be a great assest to the team. I told her that I would love to be a leader someday. She told me I had 6 months to get down to the Leader guideline for my heighth. 160. REALLY? I haven't seen 160 since I was a sophmore in High school. I continued to fast and pray for the strength to get over my weakness. On a daily basis I could feel the love and support of angels. The beginning of July I was able to call Jennifer and tell her I made it to Leader Goal. I was two months ahead of the 6months that she gave me. I am proud to say that I weigh 158. That is a lot compared to some of the other ladies that surround me. I am grateful. I am healthier today than I have been in years.
I started my weight watcher journey April of 2002. Through Prayer I received the answer that I desired. HOW DO I EAT? Go to weight watchers. I called up Debbie and we found the meeting room and we ventured out of our comfort zone. I lost 68 pounds. My start up weight was 243 pounds. In 2005 I got pregnant with Karrea. January of 2006 I got back into weight watchers and lost 50 pounds. I got to that Dr. Goal weight of 176. 2007 is when I received that goal weight. Ron sustained some back injuries and I had to help him. A voice clearly said to me, this is why you are as big as you are. So you can take care of Ron. I was finally FREE. I paid for about 5 years (remember, you can't go if you are pregnant :D). What a relief. I submitted my story into the SUCCESS contest and won 4 place in the nation, or our region. I am not sure. I got a few gift certificates, some food, a plant, and recognition. It was a real exciting time for me.
2008 rolled around and the stress of working with Ron doing carpet cleaning and not having an eating schedule I slowly gained 20 pounds. So from May to September I could feel the difference. I found myself a couple of meetings to attend. By January of 2009 I lost the 20 pounds. I kept it off for a few months and then the life happened again. From April to November 20 pounds creeped back on. I was too busy to go to meetings. By June of 2010 I was losing control of my eating. By the time I went back to weight watcher August of 2010 I was up to 198 pounds. I was so frustrated with myself. HOW COULD I DO THIS TO MYSELF. I KNOW BETTER! RIGHT?? UGH.
Here I am. Trying to be successful once again. I hit my free lifetime status in March, and started being a receptionist for weight watchers. I miss going to meetings but I love seeing the people and hopefully inspiring them in some shape or form. I am not perfect. If you see me in the grocery store I may have some "bad" chips or cookies in there. "If you bite it you write it" and nothing is off limits. "if you work the program, the program works for you!"
I cannot express the gratitude I have in my heart and soul. 1) for God giving me strength 2) my family being patient with me and fending for themselves when I can't fix another meal 3) the ladies at the Kearney weight watcher meetings that give me advice and strength and teach me the things I need to be successful 4) I am grateful the products that I get to buy to keep me on track. 5) I really appreciate the people that attend the meetings that help lift me up. I wouldn't be able to continue this journey if it wasn't for all the above. I know I'm missing others.
Thank you.
Saturday, May 7, 2011
Life Begins with G
G Is for Grandma. I can't even express how AWESOME it is to be a grandma. I was blessed to be invited to Chris and Adrienne's house for the birth of their first born son. Quinten Alan Pinchak. I think I was in heaven (except I hope I don't gain 10 pounds in heaven in 3 weeks, UGH, lol) It smelled like heaven, it felt like heaven, it seemed like heaven, I ate like I was in heaven. If that is what Heaven is Like I want to be there FOREVER.
I know I won't see Quinten for a long time, so I cherished every second I had with him (he only got fussy on me once, but I still kissed his forehead :D)
I loved him on my chest for hours at a time. He had Angel Lip gloss kisses on his head. I just couldn't help it. I hope no one caught me smelling his little hair. (its so long in the back I think he will be the one to bring the Mullet back into style).
I enjoyed Him. I hope he knows that I love him. The only time I got teary eyed was when the "taxi" came and I had to say goodbye. I gave Adrienne a hug and told her I loved her then I held Quentin in my arms again, pulled him away, kissed his soft and squishy cheek and said GRANDMA LOVES YOU......I felt the emotion come, and I handed him to Adrienne quickly. (its okay for me to cry now, I don't have mascara on, but then it was early in the morning, no time to reapply, :D)
I sit here trying to be busy so I don't miss them all.
It was really hard seeing Adrienne in pain after her C-section. I wanted to take the pain away. It was hard as she struggled to feed her little guy and tears would stream down her face. I just wanted her to know that I understand and that we all learn and grow through these experiences. She is stronger person now.
I loved seeing Chris hold his little man and try to change his diaper as fast as he could (15 min) so Poop wouldn't get on little guys socks, haha!
I truly enjoyed all the time I spent there. No complaints, not one second of regret. I was grateful for the sacrifice Chris and Adrienne gave so I could go to the sacred grove and Speak to God. What a truly wonderful blessing that is. Its a Grove of trees. Pennsylvania is Full of Groves, so why is Palmyra, New York Different? Because its Holy Ground. God the Father and his Son Jesus Christ STOOD and TAUGHT truths in that grove of trees. AWESOMENESS was all around. I will try and share what I learned there.
I got my wishes. I had three. I wished Adrienne and I could work things out!
I wanted to love on my grand son.
I wanted to see the Sacred Grove and the Hill Cumorah.
I'm so grateful for Magic Wands that really do work!
I feel very blessed.
I met some wonderful people in their ward.
I started a new business because of the bishops wife.
My.michebag.com/shanon_matson is what Lisa set me up with.
I hope and pray God grants me many more Riches.
I know I won't see Quinten for a long time, so I cherished every second I had with him (he only got fussy on me once, but I still kissed his forehead :D)
I loved him on my chest for hours at a time. He had Angel Lip gloss kisses on his head. I just couldn't help it. I hope no one caught me smelling his little hair. (its so long in the back I think he will be the one to bring the Mullet back into style).
I enjoyed Him. I hope he knows that I love him. The only time I got teary eyed was when the "taxi" came and I had to say goodbye. I gave Adrienne a hug and told her I loved her then I held Quentin in my arms again, pulled him away, kissed his soft and squishy cheek and said GRANDMA LOVES YOU......I felt the emotion come, and I handed him to Adrienne quickly. (its okay for me to cry now, I don't have mascara on, but then it was early in the morning, no time to reapply, :D)
I sit here trying to be busy so I don't miss them all.
It was really hard seeing Adrienne in pain after her C-section. I wanted to take the pain away. It was hard as she struggled to feed her little guy and tears would stream down her face. I just wanted her to know that I understand and that we all learn and grow through these experiences. She is stronger person now.
I loved seeing Chris hold his little man and try to change his diaper as fast as he could (15 min) so Poop wouldn't get on little guys socks, haha!
I truly enjoyed all the time I spent there. No complaints, not one second of regret. I was grateful for the sacrifice Chris and Adrienne gave so I could go to the sacred grove and Speak to God. What a truly wonderful blessing that is. Its a Grove of trees. Pennsylvania is Full of Groves, so why is Palmyra, New York Different? Because its Holy Ground. God the Father and his Son Jesus Christ STOOD and TAUGHT truths in that grove of trees. AWESOMENESS was all around. I will try and share what I learned there.
I got my wishes. I had three. I wished Adrienne and I could work things out!
I wanted to love on my grand son.
I wanted to see the Sacred Grove and the Hill Cumorah.
I'm so grateful for Magic Wands that really do work!
I feel very blessed.
I met some wonderful people in their ward.
I started a new business because of the bishops wife.
My.michebag.com/shanon_matson is what Lisa set me up with.
I hope and pray God grants me many more Riches.
Wednesday, March 16, 2011
Finally......living my best self?
I believe it was January when I found out that I was close to being able to work for Weight Watchers. That has been my goal from the first few weeks I started attending Weight Watcher meetings. I have always felt the pull to stand up and help people. I'm not always the perfect example but it's the Fight that keeps me going, and I find that in other people. Encouragement is KEY in most situations. I love the Weight Watchers gives you the knowledge and the tools to be successful. If you are not finding success, Its YOU, and nobody else. As of Friday, March 11, 2011 I was hired to work for Weight Watchers. I will be a receptionist first and then they really want me to be a leader. I can't wait for that challenge.
As much as I want my family to EAT like I do, and FEEL like I do, I can't force it. I provide the tools and the environment but they still have to choose. They used to ask me HOW MANY POINTS IS THAT? It was all fun and games. Now I may say....DO YOU KNOW HOW MANY POINTS THAT IS? ARE YOU SURE YOU WANT TO CHOOSE TO EAT THAT? They govern themselves.
I know how hard it is. Before Weight Watchers my success story consisted of Pills. Yes, I was very successful on FEN/PHEN. Now I may have heart problems. (One DR says I do, One Agency says I don't, you know what I mean!) I was also taking Phentermine. Very successful. I loved it because I didn't even THINK about eating. Essentially Starving! HEY! worked! Gained all my weight back and then some once I stopped taking the pills and at the time My feelings were hurt by a "friend" and I took my sadness with me to Runza double cheese burgers and Onion rings. Don't get me wrong, I still eat at Runza, but its a Grilled Chicken Sand. and maybe some onion rings as a treat ONCE in awhile.
Through my weight loss struggle I cried. What really put me over the top, seeing I had a problem was a video of myself. Triple Chin, Big bongo butt, and my gut had folds in it. Did I feel this way? NO! I felt like Shanon. I felt like ME. When I looked at the video that was NOT ME......Who was that in my voice, and my eyes? Sadness overwhelmed me!
That night I prayed to my Heavenly Father for the right path for me. The next day while watching the "forbidden" soap opera's I saw two or three commercials for Weight Watchers. It felt RIGHT for me. I called the 800 number and got some meeting information, called up my best friend at the time and asked her if she wanted to go. We Went together. I am so grateful. We both struggled off and on. We were both successful when we LIVED the LIFESTYLE. What a great blessing this program has been for ME.
Now I feel like I can bless the lives of other people. Maybe sharing a spirit of accomplishment, share ups and downs. Encourage people to be their best selves. That doesn't mean Skinny. That means healthy. Being Wise in all that we do and say. I'm ready to live what I believe, and share that knowledge. Its like sharing the Gospel of Jesus Christ. I can live by example. If people want what I have and have been blessed with, I will share that opportunity.
I have to pray every night for the strength from my Heavenly Father to go through the day in my weakness. Through Him I have found strength. My biggest Light Bulb Moment was at Time Out for Women. Wendy Ulrich said that over eating IS NOT A SIN, it is a weakness. Now in the RS lesson, it is against what Heavenly Father needs our temples to do. God knows this is a weakness, and therefore, he will be our strength, and he will provide ways to strengthen us. I'm grateful to him and to all those people who help me at Weight Watchers Tues and Thurs meetings. Can't wait to meet more people and make them a part of my journey.
As much as I want my family to EAT like I do, and FEEL like I do, I can't force it. I provide the tools and the environment but they still have to choose. They used to ask me HOW MANY POINTS IS THAT? It was all fun and games. Now I may say....DO YOU KNOW HOW MANY POINTS THAT IS? ARE YOU SURE YOU WANT TO CHOOSE TO EAT THAT? They govern themselves.
I know how hard it is. Before Weight Watchers my success story consisted of Pills. Yes, I was very successful on FEN/PHEN. Now I may have heart problems. (One DR says I do, One Agency says I don't, you know what I mean!) I was also taking Phentermine. Very successful. I loved it because I didn't even THINK about eating. Essentially Starving! HEY! worked! Gained all my weight back and then some once I stopped taking the pills and at the time My feelings were hurt by a "friend" and I took my sadness with me to Runza double cheese burgers and Onion rings. Don't get me wrong, I still eat at Runza, but its a Grilled Chicken Sand. and maybe some onion rings as a treat ONCE in awhile.
Through my weight loss struggle I cried. What really put me over the top, seeing I had a problem was a video of myself. Triple Chin, Big bongo butt, and my gut had folds in it. Did I feel this way? NO! I felt like Shanon. I felt like ME. When I looked at the video that was NOT ME......Who was that in my voice, and my eyes? Sadness overwhelmed me!
That night I prayed to my Heavenly Father for the right path for me. The next day while watching the "forbidden" soap opera's I saw two or three commercials for Weight Watchers. It felt RIGHT for me. I called the 800 number and got some meeting information, called up my best friend at the time and asked her if she wanted to go. We Went together. I am so grateful. We both struggled off and on. We were both successful when we LIVED the LIFESTYLE. What a great blessing this program has been for ME.
Now I feel like I can bless the lives of other people. Maybe sharing a spirit of accomplishment, share ups and downs. Encourage people to be their best selves. That doesn't mean Skinny. That means healthy. Being Wise in all that we do and say. I'm ready to live what I believe, and share that knowledge. Its like sharing the Gospel of Jesus Christ. I can live by example. If people want what I have and have been blessed with, I will share that opportunity.
I have to pray every night for the strength from my Heavenly Father to go through the day in my weakness. Through Him I have found strength. My biggest Light Bulb Moment was at Time Out for Women. Wendy Ulrich said that over eating IS NOT A SIN, it is a weakness. Now in the RS lesson, it is against what Heavenly Father needs our temples to do. God knows this is a weakness, and therefore, he will be our strength, and he will provide ways to strengthen us. I'm grateful to him and to all those people who help me at Weight Watchers Tues and Thurs meetings. Can't wait to meet more people and make them a part of my journey.
Wednesday, March 2, 2011
NORMAL?
I got this in an email last week sometime. It really bothered me, because I feel like people think this way of me. "She looks normal, she dresses normal, but she ISN'T."
Like I said in a post earlier this week I have had people tell me I intimidate them. That is NOT normal. I have a fight inside myself. I feel normal, but clearly I am NOT TREATED NORMAL. (for one example, the girls gave all the ladies who have had babies a baby blanket. it is "tradition" in the ward. I'm still waiting for Karrea's blanket.)
I talk too much. I voice my opinion too much. I share the "spirit" too much. I am just too much. I know too much. I say COOL or AWESOME too much. My hair is too much. My clothes are too much for some people. I care too much, I love too much. AAAAAAAAARRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRR
I am NOT NORMAL.
Just today though I felt okay with NOT being NORMAL.
Today, I am what Maxine says. And I'm okay with that.
How about you? Are you normal?
Like I said in a post earlier this week I have had people tell me I intimidate them. That is NOT normal. I have a fight inside myself. I feel normal, but clearly I am NOT TREATED NORMAL. (for one example, the girls gave all the ladies who have had babies a baby blanket. it is "tradition" in the ward. I'm still waiting for Karrea's blanket.)
I talk too much. I voice my opinion too much. I share the "spirit" too much. I am just too much. I know too much. I say COOL or AWESOME too much. My hair is too much. My clothes are too much for some people. I care too much, I love too much. AAAAAAAAARRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRR
I am NOT NORMAL.
Just today though I felt okay with NOT being NORMAL.
Today, I am what Maxine says. And I'm okay with that.
How about you? Are you normal?
Once again!
Once again the Ward POT is stirred. My hopes arise. Thinking just maybe this time I'll get to spread my wings and serve.
NOPE! Been over 2 years since I have been asked to really do something. Don't get me wrong, being in the Stake Primary was a blast. I loved seeing the kids crawling on the floor eating crayons and singing at the top of their lungs. I loved traveling around. When the Pres. got released. I wasn't surprised. My family was having a hard time getting to church without me getting them there. I knew the Lord needed me in the Kearney building. I didn't think it would be over 2 years before I could get back into the WARD.
I know some people complain because they are asked too much. They are too busy to serve here or there. I am the opposite. I feel like my wings are clipped. I feel like I am STUCK in the Closet. That is just my cross. I am supposing. I am feeling like a nothing ONCE AGAIN. I hate that feeling. I wished it didn't bother me.
Here is something I need to share with myself every day. I went to Mary Kay at the Ramada Inn last night so I could get trained, and there I found my spiritual uplift too. Funny how that works. Can't get it at CHURCH I have to get it at WORK. I love it! these ladies are great.
Ephesians 1:4
According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love:
"The Devil like to condemn us and keep us down by whispering in our ears, ""LOOK AT YOU TRYING TO ACT AS IF YOU'RE SOMEBODY WHEN YOU KNOW YOU'RE NOBODY! YOU HAVE COME FROM NOWHERE, AND YOU'RE GOING NOWHERE."" The devil uses the same old tactics in every battle, He deceives, lies, accuses, and seeks to destroy us.
When he does, remember David faced similar attacks from the enemy. When Samuel came to visit David's family, his father, Jesse, didn't even call him from tending the sheep. Samuel came to anoint a king, but no one in David's family believed that he had the right stuff to be King. His brothers were older, wiser, taller, more handsome, and more experience. Saul and his men laughed when David wanted to take on Goliath.
What David accomplished in his life for God had nothing to do with where he started and everything to do with the fact that God picked him out. Be not discouraged, regardless of your circumstances, God will take you out of wherever you are and bring you to the where ever He wants you to be!!!
LORD, YOUR CALLING ON MY LIE IS GREATER THAN ANY MAN CAN BELIEVE. I CANNOT LOOK TO OTHERS FOR MY SELF-ESTEEM OR SELF WORTH. SO, LORD, I TURN TO YOU. IN YOU, I AM ROYALTY!! AMEN
I can't tell you how I fought back the tears. I had the bobble head going on when she was teaching us. I still tear up. I just really wished I wasn't so tender about this. I want to be a part of the Kearney WARD and not just the building. I keep feeling like I'm being held back because of MAN. I wished I knew how to get past it. I just keep plugging along in my daily life and I try to do what God needs me to do.
I am happy for all those ladies who have "callings". I wished I had the opportunity to work with some of those ladies.
Rub shoulders, fellowship, be loved and most of all LOVE those whom I would serve and serve with. I do find happiness helping a little 6 year old on the computer though. She has been my SMILE on WED. nights.
I am royalty, and I'm sorry if NOBODY sees that. NOW where are the Kleenex's
NOPE! Been over 2 years since I have been asked to really do something. Don't get me wrong, being in the Stake Primary was a blast. I loved seeing the kids crawling on the floor eating crayons and singing at the top of their lungs. I loved traveling around. When the Pres. got released. I wasn't surprised. My family was having a hard time getting to church without me getting them there. I knew the Lord needed me in the Kearney building. I didn't think it would be over 2 years before I could get back into the WARD.
I know some people complain because they are asked too much. They are too busy to serve here or there. I am the opposite. I feel like my wings are clipped. I feel like I am STUCK in the Closet. That is just my cross. I am supposing. I am feeling like a nothing ONCE AGAIN. I hate that feeling. I wished it didn't bother me.
Here is something I need to share with myself every day. I went to Mary Kay at the Ramada Inn last night so I could get trained, and there I found my spiritual uplift too. Funny how that works. Can't get it at CHURCH I have to get it at WORK. I love it! these ladies are great.
Ephesians 1:4
According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love:
"The Devil like to condemn us and keep us down by whispering in our ears, ""LOOK AT YOU TRYING TO ACT AS IF YOU'RE SOMEBODY WHEN YOU KNOW YOU'RE NOBODY! YOU HAVE COME FROM NOWHERE, AND YOU'RE GOING NOWHERE."" The devil uses the same old tactics in every battle, He deceives, lies, accuses, and seeks to destroy us.
When he does, remember David faced similar attacks from the enemy. When Samuel came to visit David's family, his father, Jesse, didn't even call him from tending the sheep. Samuel came to anoint a king, but no one in David's family believed that he had the right stuff to be King. His brothers were older, wiser, taller, more handsome, and more experience. Saul and his men laughed when David wanted to take on Goliath.
What David accomplished in his life for God had nothing to do with where he started and everything to do with the fact that God picked him out. Be not discouraged, regardless of your circumstances, God will take you out of wherever you are and bring you to the where ever He wants you to be!!!
LORD, YOUR CALLING ON MY LIE IS GREATER THAN ANY MAN CAN BELIEVE. I CANNOT LOOK TO OTHERS FOR MY SELF-ESTEEM OR SELF WORTH. SO, LORD, I TURN TO YOU. IN YOU, I AM ROYALTY!! AMEN
I can't tell you how I fought back the tears. I had the bobble head going on when she was teaching us. I still tear up. I just really wished I wasn't so tender about this. I want to be a part of the Kearney WARD and not just the building. I keep feeling like I'm being held back because of MAN. I wished I knew how to get past it. I just keep plugging along in my daily life and I try to do what God needs me to do.
I am happy for all those ladies who have "callings". I wished I had the opportunity to work with some of those ladies.
Rub shoulders, fellowship, be loved and most of all LOVE those whom I would serve and serve with. I do find happiness helping a little 6 year old on the computer though. She has been my SMILE on WED. nights.
I am royalty, and I'm sorry if NOBODY sees that. NOW where are the Kleenex's
Tuesday, March 1, 2011
The Ugly Head
Just when I think I am OVER what People think of ME, self doubt looms its ugly head again.
My friend told me the other day that I used to intimidate her. I come to church looking so nice, and I carry myself so upright that I truly frightened her. I assured her that if you talk to me more than 5 minutes I'm the biggest L word. If you look under my bangs you will see what I mean.
I have reflected that "message" over and over in my head for the past few days. I feel I have been told that so many times that I feel like I'm leaning towards the DORKY side a little too much, Like I'm trying TOO hard to fit in. I turned 40 3 years ago. I liked who I was finally. That seems to be the time that I have heard this statement OVER AND OVER AGAIN......"Shanon, you intimidate people", or "wow, you are not what I thought you were", or "You are different at home then you are at church" That one, I had an answer for, I'm supposed to be reverent and conservative at church, its the Lords house.
I just have to think that Satan is using this tool to distract me. I have found that I have wanted to retract my whole body from the WORLD, even church things. FOR FEAR I MAY INTIMIDATE. haha! This is where I take a deep breath and try to live the best that I can.
I am TOO honest
I am POISED in most situations
I am Opinionated
I am Listening
I am BOLD
I am BRAVE
I am ME
I am Who I believe Heavenly Father NEEDS me to be
I am A good MOM
I am a Good WIFE
I am a good Daycare Provider
I am a good House keeper
I am a good Worker
I am a good Sister
I am a Good Daughter
I am Who I am!
I Am the BEST that I can Be TODAY
i am who I am because GOD LOVES ME
I will be OKAY whether YOU like me or NOT.......I do what I do because its ALL I know, and I try to hear what God needs from me.
My friend told me the other day that I used to intimidate her. I come to church looking so nice, and I carry myself so upright that I truly frightened her. I assured her that if you talk to me more than 5 minutes I'm the biggest L word. If you look under my bangs you will see what I mean.
I have reflected that "message" over and over in my head for the past few days. I feel I have been told that so many times that I feel like I'm leaning towards the DORKY side a little too much, Like I'm trying TOO hard to fit in. I turned 40 3 years ago. I liked who I was finally. That seems to be the time that I have heard this statement OVER AND OVER AGAIN......"Shanon, you intimidate people", or "wow, you are not what I thought you were", or "You are different at home then you are at church" That one, I had an answer for, I'm supposed to be reverent and conservative at church, its the Lords house.
I just have to think that Satan is using this tool to distract me. I have found that I have wanted to retract my whole body from the WORLD, even church things. FOR FEAR I MAY INTIMIDATE. haha! This is where I take a deep breath and try to live the best that I can.
I am TOO honest
I am POISED in most situations
I am Opinionated
I am Listening
I am BOLD
I am BRAVE
I am ME
I am Who I believe Heavenly Father NEEDS me to be
I am A good MOM
I am a Good WIFE
I am a good Daycare Provider
I am a good House keeper
I am a good Worker
I am a good Sister
I am a Good Daughter
I am Who I am!
I Am the BEST that I can Be TODAY
i am who I am because GOD LOVES ME
I will be OKAY whether YOU like me or NOT.......I do what I do because its ALL I know, and I try to hear what God needs from me.
Friday, February 25, 2011
So excited!!!
Thursday morning I was just lounging in bed when I got a phone call from Adrienne. She was looking up flights for P.A. for April. A few weeks ago 1 ticket was over 149.00. Now they were 109.00 so she booked me on a flight to Newark, NJ. I am so excited. I leave April 5th, and get back the 27 of April. Wow, can I do it? YOU BET! I can't wait. Hopefully I don't out do my welcome and they take me to the airport to hang for 6 days. :D
I got my itinerary and my baggage requirement, now I just need to find a way to Omaha. Not sure if Ron will take me or he will let me take the car and park it in Omaha. I have a month to figure it out. Isn't it crazy February has come and gone! GEE. I'm kind of glad, I get grumpy in Feb. I haven't quite figured it out yet. Oh ya. Its lovers day and my birthday. Hmmmmm. This year I celebrated the family and not just Ron and I. I loved that commercial where the card says I CELEBRATE US. I lose out if I just celebrate Ron and I cuz to him V-Day is no biggy.........so this year we gave the kids some money and we went out as a family. V-Day I took Justice out. He has felt neglected lately. We had a good time.
I was asking on facebook if anyone wanted to help me go to PA to visit my new grandson. They could order Mary Kay or Pampered Chef, or just send me a dollar, and between my 657 friends, that would be a good start. A few friends have pulled through. I'm excited!
Now if I can just keep it straight, and not put it in my gas tank. with the price of gas...........my denali took 70.00 for a half a tank. I'm not liking this. Plus I have to put money in Shai's tank. Ron has only averaged 3 jobs a week. That is NOT paying his bills. We are getting nervous. Let me rephrase that......HE is getting nervous. I have made suggestions but that is NOT what he feels comfortable with. (talking with people). I just pray the phones ring for him.
I have a young lady who will watch the daycare while I'm gone if Ron has some jobs. I hope all is covered. Hopefully she'll have her Drivers License by then. YAY.
Life is smiling right now.
I got my itinerary and my baggage requirement, now I just need to find a way to Omaha. Not sure if Ron will take me or he will let me take the car and park it in Omaha. I have a month to figure it out. Isn't it crazy February has come and gone! GEE. I'm kind of glad, I get grumpy in Feb. I haven't quite figured it out yet. Oh ya. Its lovers day and my birthday. Hmmmmm. This year I celebrated the family and not just Ron and I. I loved that commercial where the card says I CELEBRATE US. I lose out if I just celebrate Ron and I cuz to him V-Day is no biggy.........so this year we gave the kids some money and we went out as a family. V-Day I took Justice out. He has felt neglected lately. We had a good time.
I was asking on facebook if anyone wanted to help me go to PA to visit my new grandson. They could order Mary Kay or Pampered Chef, or just send me a dollar, and between my 657 friends, that would be a good start. A few friends have pulled through. I'm excited!
Now if I can just keep it straight, and not put it in my gas tank. with the price of gas...........my denali took 70.00 for a half a tank. I'm not liking this. Plus I have to put money in Shai's tank. Ron has only averaged 3 jobs a week. That is NOT paying his bills. We are getting nervous. Let me rephrase that......HE is getting nervous. I have made suggestions but that is NOT what he feels comfortable with. (talking with people). I just pray the phones ring for him.
I have a young lady who will watch the daycare while I'm gone if Ron has some jobs. I hope all is covered. Hopefully she'll have her Drivers License by then. YAY.
Life is smiling right now.
Tuesday, February 8, 2011
I'm four, I'm four, I'm forty three years old today!
February 6, 1968 I was blessed come into this world. According to my "birth mother" I was stubborn, she was in labor for about 3 days. Do you know how cold and dreary the world is? Do you know why I stayed in as long as I could? I knew I would have a rough go of it this place we call the dark and dreary world.
This weekend was my birthday weekend. Saturday I went with Ron to clean the retirement home, Kensington in Hastings. I like being there. I like helping. After work we shopped at the dollar store and then he took me to breakfast, lunch, supper at Country Pride. I order my usual chopped steak, baked potato, and steamed veggies. Soup and salad. YUM. I didn't reorder. I am trying to get my weight down to where I can be a receptionist for Weight watchers. I have 5 pounds to go. Whew. Its been NINE YEARS. I have wanted to work for WW for NINE YEARS. Wow. Talk about stubborn.
After Country Pride we went to Kearney. I had to pay some of my Cato's card and while I was there I looked through clearance. That place is so addicting to me. I got a blouse for 5.99 and a cute black skirt for 9.99. Ron offered to buy that for me for my birthday. That was nice of him. Shai kept bugging me about when we were going to get home so I told her we were on our way. When we drove up and parked you could hear the kids running in the house and then all the lights disappeared. I heard my favorite MANLY MAN playing on the Bose. David Archuletta! awwwww! (next year it will be my album from John Wayne Shulz haha)
SURPRISE!!!!!!!!!!!!!! they all jumped out and surprised me (not!) They had a birthday banner and cheese cake bites and cupcakes and presents and cards! IT WAS SO SWEET! (I started my fast after country pride so I saved some goodies for Sunday). The cards were sweet! I got two webkins. One is a cocker spaniel and one is a Koala Bear. Shai made me a couple of bracelets, and a paper weight that is so cute! its a wooden block and she embossed it! LOVE IT ALL. I got lots of hugs and kisses.
Sunday I got a text from Adrienne bright and early in the morning,. Luckily I was up and ready to go. We had decided to attend my mom's ward in Grand Island and it started at 9:00, so we were up at 7:00 and leaving by 8. Karrea started throwing up Friday at 1:00 am, and felt better Saturday. Sunday 2:30 AM I got a tap on my shoulder and had a few messes to clean up. I get so annoyed. At least she didn't throw up on her brother on the bottom bunk this time. She was on the couch. Justice was thankful for that!
Justice opted to stay home with her, he had a stomach ache. I think it was because he didn't start his fast like he should of and was eating chili late at night. Sure sign for a disaster. It was all good. We got on the road a little late. I'm glad mom saved us a spot there was standing room only. NOT. There weren't very many people there. It was quite sad. There was a sweet spirit in the testimonies though. Isn't that what truly matters?
After church I got lots of hugs from dear friends that have seen me grow up and become a wife, mother, and now a grandma. Sunday school was nice and RS was even nicer. Mom bore her testimony. Could I ask for a better birthday present?
We got home and had homemade lasagna for lunch. Lyle made a great salad with tomatoes, broccoli, black olives, and lettuce. I made garlic bread. And for dessert I made angel food strawberry shortcake. Usually Ron buys all the stuff but I did this year. I wasn't going to wait around for him. I get tired of doing that!
The phone rang and it was Christopher. He apologized for not getting my birthday card off. I told him to just add interest. He laughed and told me that my birthday present is a plane ticket to come out when the baby is going to be born. I didn't know they wanted me there. He said he would have Adrienne call me when she got up from her nap. I told him I wouldn't be able to come out, who would watch the kids. My mom got mad and said figure out a way, this is your grand baby! DANG......Who knew she could be so feisty!? ME! haha
I opened up my cards from Roger and Mom and dad! Thank you guys! We were supposed to have a clown entertain us, but he was dead in the street! Dang it, and I didn't feel like having dancing monkeys so we just sat around and talked and laughed. It was the bestest Birthday! I got a call from Adrienne. She asked if I would come out to PA and help her with the baby. Maybe stay about 2 weeks or so. MY JAW DROPPED! She needs me? She needs me? SHE NEEDS ME!!!!! How awesome is that. She told me that the ladies in RS were asking if I was going to be able to be out there for the baby to help her and she told them I probably wouldn't be able to afford it, and time off, etc. I guess that made her sad. She said she cried after church. I guess Chris promised that he would get me there somehow. Because he loves Adrienne, and this is what Adrienne wants he will move hell or high water to get what she wants. I LOVE THAT. He may be a pain sometimes but he loves my little princess!
I guess they are going to be moving March 1st. That was one of the things I said when they first moved out there. I still have hurt feelings by the way his family treated our family while here at the wedding. AM I OFFENDED? no. but I do have hurt feelings. Can I be respectful to them? Yes, I always have been. Are they respectful to me? No. but that is their problem. Doesn't mean I have to be around them 24/7. Can I be in the same room with them? Sure, I'm a big girl! I loved the time we spent there in Grand Junction. I don't believe they had to be totally disrespectful to us. NUFF SAID.
That was a great birthday gift given to me too. I'm hoping to go to PA maybe the 7th of April and coming back around the 18 or later. I'll know more details the closer she gets to being due. She says its hard to breath. I KNOW THAT ONE. I sure love to hear that she is changing and that maybe I wasn't such a bad mommy after all! I really try to live my life so that the spirit can change me, and help me teach my children. I feel God is a real gift giver in that department. I love each of my children and if I could give more I would. But God has told me I'm poor for a reason! haha! He sees the sacrifices I make for them. They are good citizens, and they work for all that they have! I LOVE THAT! What a great blessing!
If turning one year old is good like this........I welcome the birthdays!
I'm four, I'm four, I'm forty three today! (2-6-68)
This weekend was my birthday weekend. Saturday I went with Ron to clean the retirement home, Kensington in Hastings. I like being there. I like helping. After work we shopped at the dollar store and then he took me to breakfast, lunch, supper at Country Pride. I order my usual chopped steak, baked potato, and steamed veggies. Soup and salad. YUM. I didn't reorder. I am trying to get my weight down to where I can be a receptionist for Weight watchers. I have 5 pounds to go. Whew. Its been NINE YEARS. I have wanted to work for WW for NINE YEARS. Wow. Talk about stubborn.
After Country Pride we went to Kearney. I had to pay some of my Cato's card and while I was there I looked through clearance. That place is so addicting to me. I got a blouse for 5.99 and a cute black skirt for 9.99. Ron offered to buy that for me for my birthday. That was nice of him. Shai kept bugging me about when we were going to get home so I told her we were on our way. When we drove up and parked you could hear the kids running in the house and then all the lights disappeared. I heard my favorite MANLY MAN playing on the Bose. David Archuletta! awwwww! (next year it will be my album from John Wayne Shulz haha)
SURPRISE!!!!!!!!!!!!!! they all jumped out and surprised me (not!) They had a birthday banner and cheese cake bites and cupcakes and presents and cards! IT WAS SO SWEET! (I started my fast after country pride so I saved some goodies for Sunday). The cards were sweet! I got two webkins. One is a cocker spaniel and one is a Koala Bear. Shai made me a couple of bracelets, and a paper weight that is so cute! its a wooden block and she embossed it! LOVE IT ALL. I got lots of hugs and kisses.
Sunday I got a text from Adrienne bright and early in the morning,. Luckily I was up and ready to go. We had decided to attend my mom's ward in Grand Island and it started at 9:00, so we were up at 7:00 and leaving by 8. Karrea started throwing up Friday at 1:00 am, and felt better Saturday. Sunday 2:30 AM I got a tap on my shoulder and had a few messes to clean up. I get so annoyed. At least she didn't throw up on her brother on the bottom bunk this time. She was on the couch. Justice was thankful for that!
Justice opted to stay home with her, he had a stomach ache. I think it was because he didn't start his fast like he should of and was eating chili late at night. Sure sign for a disaster. It was all good. We got on the road a little late. I'm glad mom saved us a spot there was standing room only. NOT. There weren't very many people there. It was quite sad. There was a sweet spirit in the testimonies though. Isn't that what truly matters?
After church I got lots of hugs from dear friends that have seen me grow up and become a wife, mother, and now a grandma. Sunday school was nice and RS was even nicer. Mom bore her testimony. Could I ask for a better birthday present?
We got home and had homemade lasagna for lunch. Lyle made a great salad with tomatoes, broccoli, black olives, and lettuce. I made garlic bread. And for dessert I made angel food strawberry shortcake. Usually Ron buys all the stuff but I did this year. I wasn't going to wait around for him. I get tired of doing that!
The phone rang and it was Christopher. He apologized for not getting my birthday card off. I told him to just add interest. He laughed and told me that my birthday present is a plane ticket to come out when the baby is going to be born. I didn't know they wanted me there. He said he would have Adrienne call me when she got up from her nap. I told him I wouldn't be able to come out, who would watch the kids. My mom got mad and said figure out a way, this is your grand baby! DANG......Who knew she could be so feisty!? ME! haha
I opened up my cards from Roger and Mom and dad! Thank you guys! We were supposed to have a clown entertain us, but he was dead in the street! Dang it, and I didn't feel like having dancing monkeys so we just sat around and talked and laughed. It was the bestest Birthday! I got a call from Adrienne. She asked if I would come out to PA and help her with the baby. Maybe stay about 2 weeks or so. MY JAW DROPPED! She needs me? She needs me? SHE NEEDS ME!!!!! How awesome is that. She told me that the ladies in RS were asking if I was going to be able to be out there for the baby to help her and she told them I probably wouldn't be able to afford it, and time off, etc. I guess that made her sad. She said she cried after church. I guess Chris promised that he would get me there somehow. Because he loves Adrienne, and this is what Adrienne wants he will move hell or high water to get what she wants. I LOVE THAT. He may be a pain sometimes but he loves my little princess!
I guess they are going to be moving March 1st. That was one of the things I said when they first moved out there. I still have hurt feelings by the way his family treated our family while here at the wedding. AM I OFFENDED? no. but I do have hurt feelings. Can I be respectful to them? Yes, I always have been. Are they respectful to me? No. but that is their problem. Doesn't mean I have to be around them 24/7. Can I be in the same room with them? Sure, I'm a big girl! I loved the time we spent there in Grand Junction. I don't believe they had to be totally disrespectful to us. NUFF SAID.
That was a great birthday gift given to me too. I'm hoping to go to PA maybe the 7th of April and coming back around the 18 or later. I'll know more details the closer she gets to being due. She says its hard to breath. I KNOW THAT ONE. I sure love to hear that she is changing and that maybe I wasn't such a bad mommy after all! I really try to live my life so that the spirit can change me, and help me teach my children. I feel God is a real gift giver in that department. I love each of my children and if I could give more I would. But God has told me I'm poor for a reason! haha! He sees the sacrifices I make for them. They are good citizens, and they work for all that they have! I LOVE THAT! What a great blessing!
If turning one year old is good like this........I welcome the birthdays!
I'm four, I'm four, I'm forty three today! (2-6-68)
Tuesday, February 1, 2011
Missing
We got word the 21st that Kailee was missing. Prayers went up immediately. Prayers of PLEASE FATHER...HELP US FIND HER. I had a feeling it wasn't going to be good.
Does anything good come from McCook? Yes, it does.
Saturday morning Kelly called us. He was crying. Not a good sign. They found her. Her spirit was in heaven, her body was in the Bartley Cemetery. Prayers go out to the family. Kelly Promised he would stay strong for his baby girl! Kelly feels that Kailee guided him the whole way to find her. He only saw the suspect one time. Kailee had expressed concern for her safety. He did his own investigating and found him. He let police do their job. I know is a hard thing to do.
We are all sad! Shai went to the funeral. She said there were well over 1000 people there. Standing room only!
God is a God of Mercy and Justice and it will be served!
God bless all those who are seeking for peace and comfort.
Kailee was family. Kailee was/is loved. Kailee will be an example of Justice.
Does anything good come from McCook? Yes, it does.
Saturday morning Kelly called us. He was crying. Not a good sign. They found her. Her spirit was in heaven, her body was in the Bartley Cemetery. Prayers go out to the family. Kelly Promised he would stay strong for his baby girl! Kelly feels that Kailee guided him the whole way to find her. He only saw the suspect one time. Kailee had expressed concern for her safety. He did his own investigating and found him. He let police do their job. I know is a hard thing to do.
We are all sad! Shai went to the funeral. She said there were well over 1000 people there. Standing room only!
God is a God of Mercy and Justice and it will be served!
God bless all those who are seeking for peace and comfort.
Kailee was family. Kailee was/is loved. Kailee will be an example of Justice.
Wednesday, January 26, 2011
Tuesday, January 4, 2011
Christmas Eve
Since our time was going to be spent with my family on Christmas day, and stores are not open, and we don't shop on Sunday, we decided it would be fun to treat Christmas Eve Day like Christmas day at the Matson home. The Saturday before is when I wrapped all of the presents I had gotten for the family and daycare. I wasn't going to spend money on the kids, but Walgreen was have a buy one get one free sale and I just couldn't resist their cute variety (and loud) of toys.
I got Maddy and Tessa matching babies. I got Kaleb a high powered and very noisy gun. :D I got Kole a noisy steering wheel, with all the lights and sounds. I got a phone that was for babies, but Anthony had his eye it, and so I gave it to him, and his sister Stephie I gave her some make-up. I got a Pizza hut gift card from Sonya, Zach, and Kole. I also gave Matt a break on daycare....half price. It was an accident, but how do I tell them. Oh by the way, you owe me 33.75 each day. I know the Lord will bless all of us, so I just left it.
We opened our White elephant gifts to each other first. We have a great time doing that. Wait, I think the kids opened up their stockings stuff first. We told them there wouldn't be much in there. We bought some mini candy bars and Walgreen's had .30 skittles and snickers. I think we spent 10.00 on the stocking stuffer. I think they had fun.
We enjoyed all that we received. Ron put some money in the kids 12 pack of soda. I played the hot and cold game with the kids cards. I hid them. I woke up out of bed at 6:00 freaking out. Ron, Ron, We forgot to get the stockings ready. We rushed around trying not to make too much noise. Got everything set up, I hid the cards, and then we went back to bed. We asked the kids not to get us up until 9:00. Now that they are older, there is NO fighting it. Karrea is a late bloomer, she sleeps in like Shai does. We are lucky if Shai gets out of bed before noon when there is no school.
I felt really spoiled, blessed, satisfied, its hard to know what word to use. I received a fancy crock pot. You get to set the time, and temperature, and the lid locks on. I also received a NINJA. Its a food processor that goes on top of two different containers. (note to self. only do one batch at a time of Oreo truffles. smoke was coming out of the top of the NINJA.....OOOPS). I needed a big furry blanket. I got it. Its like sleeping with a bear that doesn't snore. We have a down comforter, but for some reason I can't sleep under it. My hips get to hot and they start to ache. I had been using two blankets one for the top, one for the bottom, they were clearance blankets you can put in the car. It was nice not to have to rearrange in the middle of the night. The Big surprise is the watch and bracelet set he got me. I have bad luck with watches. I have been forgetting I even have one. He'll ask me.......HEY SHANON WHAT TIME IT IS? Um...I D K
I got Ron some new G's. I bought him some movies, buy one get one free. I also got him an I-tunes card so he can put songs on his Ipod. Nothing like wearing WHITE instead of gray. Haha. I'm not sure what the kids have spent their money on. Karrea got a few toys for her doll house. There were the twin babies from Walgreen's along with some barbie/clothes. She got some Little Pet shop pals, and a barbie that teaches dogs how to swim. She loved it all. It was so fun to see her get so excited. Justice and Shai were surprised at some of their gifts too. Like the White Elephant, Justice got dad's dremel tool. Shai got some scrap booking Teen paper and book, etc.
We had a wonderful time in the morning. We all got dressed and got ready to shop. WE picked up some burger king for lunch. We are hooked on Buck Doubles and salads. We went to several stores and just looked around. The hustle and bustle was okay, because there was no real pressure. I had asked the kids to really ponder on where they wanted to spend their money. It really is a rare commodities these days. We picked up some Sonic drinks around Happy Hour. Shopped some more. It was getting supper time and I went to Domino's and ordered some pizza. Little Caesars was closed. I thought the sign said 2 for 5.99 so I ordered 4 pizza's. UM....if you order at least 2 you can get them for 5.99 a piece. DANG IT. I spent way too much money on pizza. To be quite honest......it wasn't worth it. The pizza was raw. I don't like raw cheese. its, its, its just yucky. The olives were poison tasting. I wasn't a real hit that night in the supper department. It will be another 20 years before I go there again. ( I worked there in 1989).
We got home late. Started making stuff for Christmas day. I think we got to bed around 1:00. Thursday night Justice and I made Oreo balls (because he talked dad into buying me that NINJA). We had a blast. I made sugar cookie dough. We made chocolate covered raw almonds with the left over white and chocolate almond bark. Shai made puppy chow. We sent Karrea to bed. I reflect on this time with much love and gratitude in my soul. Kole was even a good boy. He is doing a lot better. I think the kids are even praying that he has a good day. We just want him to be happy. That is all we ever want.
I got Maddy and Tessa matching babies. I got Kaleb a high powered and very noisy gun. :D I got Kole a noisy steering wheel, with all the lights and sounds. I got a phone that was for babies, but Anthony had his eye it, and so I gave it to him, and his sister Stephie I gave her some make-up. I got a Pizza hut gift card from Sonya, Zach, and Kole. I also gave Matt a break on daycare....half price. It was an accident, but how do I tell them. Oh by the way, you owe me 33.75 each day. I know the Lord will bless all of us, so I just left it.
We opened our White elephant gifts to each other first. We have a great time doing that. Wait, I think the kids opened up their stockings stuff first. We told them there wouldn't be much in there. We bought some mini candy bars and Walgreen's had .30 skittles and snickers. I think we spent 10.00 on the stocking stuffer. I think they had fun.
We enjoyed all that we received. Ron put some money in the kids 12 pack of soda. I played the hot and cold game with the kids cards. I hid them. I woke up out of bed at 6:00 freaking out. Ron, Ron, We forgot to get the stockings ready. We rushed around trying not to make too much noise. Got everything set up, I hid the cards, and then we went back to bed. We asked the kids not to get us up until 9:00. Now that they are older, there is NO fighting it. Karrea is a late bloomer, she sleeps in like Shai does. We are lucky if Shai gets out of bed before noon when there is no school.
I felt really spoiled, blessed, satisfied, its hard to know what word to use. I received a fancy crock pot. You get to set the time, and temperature, and the lid locks on. I also received a NINJA. Its a food processor that goes on top of two different containers. (note to self. only do one batch at a time of Oreo truffles. smoke was coming out of the top of the NINJA.....OOOPS). I needed a big furry blanket. I got it. Its like sleeping with a bear that doesn't snore. We have a down comforter, but for some reason I can't sleep under it. My hips get to hot and they start to ache. I had been using two blankets one for the top, one for the bottom, they were clearance blankets you can put in the car. It was nice not to have to rearrange in the middle of the night. The Big surprise is the watch and bracelet set he got me. I have bad luck with watches. I have been forgetting I even have one. He'll ask me.......HEY SHANON WHAT TIME IT IS? Um...I D K
I got Ron some new G's. I bought him some movies, buy one get one free. I also got him an I-tunes card so he can put songs on his Ipod. Nothing like wearing WHITE instead of gray. Haha. I'm not sure what the kids have spent their money on. Karrea got a few toys for her doll house. There were the twin babies from Walgreen's along with some barbie/clothes. She got some Little Pet shop pals, and a barbie that teaches dogs how to swim. She loved it all. It was so fun to see her get so excited. Justice and Shai were surprised at some of their gifts too. Like the White Elephant, Justice got dad's dremel tool. Shai got some scrap booking Teen paper and book, etc.
We had a wonderful time in the morning. We all got dressed and got ready to shop. WE picked up some burger king for lunch. We are hooked on Buck Doubles and salads. We went to several stores and just looked around. The hustle and bustle was okay, because there was no real pressure. I had asked the kids to really ponder on where they wanted to spend their money. It really is a rare commodities these days. We picked up some Sonic drinks around Happy Hour. Shopped some more. It was getting supper time and I went to Domino's and ordered some pizza. Little Caesars was closed. I thought the sign said 2 for 5.99 so I ordered 4 pizza's. UM....if you order at least 2 you can get them for 5.99 a piece. DANG IT. I spent way too much money on pizza. To be quite honest......it wasn't worth it. The pizza was raw. I don't like raw cheese. its, its, its just yucky. The olives were poison tasting. I wasn't a real hit that night in the supper department. It will be another 20 years before I go there again. ( I worked there in 1989).
We got home late. Started making stuff for Christmas day. I think we got to bed around 1:00. Thursday night Justice and I made Oreo balls (because he talked dad into buying me that NINJA). We had a blast. I made sugar cookie dough. We made chocolate covered raw almonds with the left over white and chocolate almond bark. Shai made puppy chow. We sent Karrea to bed. I reflect on this time with much love and gratitude in my soul. Kole was even a good boy. He is doing a lot better. I think the kids are even praying that he has a good day. We just want him to be happy. That is all we ever want.
Monday, January 3, 2011
Christmas Day
Christmas day was to be spent with my whole family. What a great treat that was. Russell, Rachelle, and Lucas. Roger, a friend, and Miranda, that was a surprise. Lyle, Kelly, Lexis, Dana, Keagan, and Michael. Everyone was present, well, except Adrienne, and Chris. Uncle Norman and Marcy showed up and we began to eat. Since we were in the club house near mom and dad's duplex, we decided we would do soups and snacks. Plenty of food. You would think we were feeding an army. I made chicken chili, Roger made Zuppa Tuscana, Lyle made chili, mom made homemade chicken noodle, dad made oyster stew, Russ made little smokies in a blanket. Lots of candy, cookies, cheese and crackers. It was not a good place for a dieter! I ate 3 bowls of Rogers soup. LOVED IT. Tasted lyles. Could be a little more zing. I ate a half a bowl of noodle soup. Sipped on dad's stew.......YUCK, and didn't even try mine. LOL! (in fact its in the microwave now cooking down to make re fried beans)
After we ate we played games. The girls were playing Hokie 6 while the guys played Trouble. We had a great time. We brought out BLURT. Mom didn't want to play, dad was getting sick, and Lyle was a party pooper. Ha, he was still eating. We made mom play and she was good at it and she loved it. We even caught her cheating and she had to give up the points. NO BLURTING FOR THE OTHER TEAM! haha
We had a white elephant exchange. I ended up with a John Deer Sweatshirt. Justiced ended up having to choose 3 times, people were stealing his gifts. He got a tea cup. Karrea got some stuffed animals and a Yankee candle. Shai picked one of my gifts (mine were the last ones left, sheesh) she got a friends picture frame. Ron ended up with Wild Country Cologne from Avon. It was a good time. I'm already for next years gift exchange, I picked up some clearance blankets. Everyone was fighting over those!
We cleaned up the club house and went over to mom and dads. There we got out Pictionary man. We are not fans. We even had Lucas Crying because he couldn't figure out how to draw FIRE STARTER. You got me! Who the heck came up with something stupid like that. JUST MY OPINION, and about half of the other people in the room. We hung out for a couple hours. Rachelle was starting to feel stuffy, Roger just got back from an Omaha run. We snacked a little bit and then it was time for us to get back, it was almost midnight.
On the way to Grand Island Justice wanted to know if he could stop at T.A. and check out a knife. I made Ron pull over at T.A. just so Justice could check it out, even though it was after midnight. Justice felt bad because "what if I change my mind and don't get the knife?" I said, Don't worry about it Son, You'll know if you are supposed to spend your money on it or not. Money has been really really tight around here. Ron has never seen his bank account so low since he started his own business. Let that be a lesson to him. I don't have any money coming in to pull up the slack either. My day care is half the load it used to be since they are all in school. I want Justice to be aware of money situations, but I want him to learn that God will tell you where your money should go.
The boys were in the store about 15 min. Justice came out and said He wasn't going to buy the knife. Ron came out and said he wanted me to come in and check out the leather jackets for motorcycle riding. I was reluctant. They were normally 140.00 on sale for 59.99. We were in there trying jackets on, and trying to decide if we really needed them. Now, I have ridden with my Heaven's Best coat on. It was not fun having that hood flap around smacking me. This Jacket has a zip out liner and inner pockets too. Its black with Roses embedded on it and the sleeves can zip up for a tighter fit. Ron bought 2 of them. I truly feel spoiled and blessed this season. I just need to buy some cycle gloves and maybe some chaps and we will be set (he needs chaps too). We found out boots for 8.00 on clearance. The helmets were a gift from the man we bought the bike from.
I was overwhelmed by the great day we had participated in. I walked to the Denali quickly, it was cold and late. A young man stopped Ron at the door. I'm a people watcher. I had seen this man pacing back and forth, stretching out his legs on the bench. Going in the store, running up the stairs a few times. I didn't know if he was waiting for his Truck to fill up with Gas. I've heard that takes quite a bit of time. To have him stop Ron puzzled me. I watched. I could see the man tearing up. I reached for my purse. I grabbed a 20.00 (i had two of them for the rest of the week). I walked outside. Ron said he was pulling his car around to the pump.
Ron wasn't sure what to do, the man asked for some money, but he didn't want him spending it on booze or cigarettes, so Ron offered him to FILL UP his P.T. Cruiser. We walked over to the pump. I held out my hand. He thought I was going to shake his hand.....in my hand was the 20 dollar bill. He started to cry. He asked for our address, he stated that when he got paid he would send us the money to repay, I gladly said......NOPE. YOU KEEP IT. We love to help. Thank you for letting us help! Emotion over came him. Ron and I started to tear up too. He finally choked out....I'm in the military. My mom gave me all she had, and 20.00 doesn't get me from Missouri to Colorado. My aunt and uncle borrowed 40.00 and I am stranded here in the cold. I have to be at post at 9:00 am. Thank you for being so kind and helping me. I couldn't choke anything out, I just nodded and wiped my tears.
We watched as he got in his car, wiping his tears. We hugged each other and I choked out......That is what Christ and Christmas is all about. We got into our warm Denali and drove off. Satisfied! As we passed our new friend, we honked and waved and prayed that he would make it safely to Colorado. It was foggy that night, but our vision was CLEAR. Jesus is the reason for the season.
After we ate we played games. The girls were playing Hokie 6 while the guys played Trouble. We had a great time. We brought out BLURT. Mom didn't want to play, dad was getting sick, and Lyle was a party pooper. Ha, he was still eating. We made mom play and she was good at it and she loved it. We even caught her cheating and she had to give up the points. NO BLURTING FOR THE OTHER TEAM! haha
We had a white elephant exchange. I ended up with a John Deer Sweatshirt. Justiced ended up having to choose 3 times, people were stealing his gifts. He got a tea cup. Karrea got some stuffed animals and a Yankee candle. Shai picked one of my gifts (mine were the last ones left, sheesh) she got a friends picture frame. Ron ended up with Wild Country Cologne from Avon. It was a good time. I'm already for next years gift exchange, I picked up some clearance blankets. Everyone was fighting over those!
We cleaned up the club house and went over to mom and dads. There we got out Pictionary man. We are not fans. We even had Lucas Crying because he couldn't figure out how to draw FIRE STARTER. You got me! Who the heck came up with something stupid like that. JUST MY OPINION, and about half of the other people in the room. We hung out for a couple hours. Rachelle was starting to feel stuffy, Roger just got back from an Omaha run. We snacked a little bit and then it was time for us to get back, it was almost midnight.
On the way to Grand Island Justice wanted to know if he could stop at T.A. and check out a knife. I made Ron pull over at T.A. just so Justice could check it out, even though it was after midnight. Justice felt bad because "what if I change my mind and don't get the knife?" I said, Don't worry about it Son, You'll know if you are supposed to spend your money on it or not. Money has been really really tight around here. Ron has never seen his bank account so low since he started his own business. Let that be a lesson to him. I don't have any money coming in to pull up the slack either. My day care is half the load it used to be since they are all in school. I want Justice to be aware of money situations, but I want him to learn that God will tell you where your money should go.
The boys were in the store about 15 min. Justice came out and said He wasn't going to buy the knife. Ron came out and said he wanted me to come in and check out the leather jackets for motorcycle riding. I was reluctant. They were normally 140.00 on sale for 59.99. We were in there trying jackets on, and trying to decide if we really needed them. Now, I have ridden with my Heaven's Best coat on. It was not fun having that hood flap around smacking me. This Jacket has a zip out liner and inner pockets too. Its black with Roses embedded on it and the sleeves can zip up for a tighter fit. Ron bought 2 of them. I truly feel spoiled and blessed this season. I just need to buy some cycle gloves and maybe some chaps and we will be set (he needs chaps too). We found out boots for 8.00 on clearance. The helmets were a gift from the man we bought the bike from.
I was overwhelmed by the great day we had participated in. I walked to the Denali quickly, it was cold and late. A young man stopped Ron at the door. I'm a people watcher. I had seen this man pacing back and forth, stretching out his legs on the bench. Going in the store, running up the stairs a few times. I didn't know if he was waiting for his Truck to fill up with Gas. I've heard that takes quite a bit of time. To have him stop Ron puzzled me. I watched. I could see the man tearing up. I reached for my purse. I grabbed a 20.00 (i had two of them for the rest of the week). I walked outside. Ron said he was pulling his car around to the pump.
Ron wasn't sure what to do, the man asked for some money, but he didn't want him spending it on booze or cigarettes, so Ron offered him to FILL UP his P.T. Cruiser. We walked over to the pump. I held out my hand. He thought I was going to shake his hand.....in my hand was the 20 dollar bill. He started to cry. He asked for our address, he stated that when he got paid he would send us the money to repay, I gladly said......NOPE. YOU KEEP IT. We love to help. Thank you for letting us help! Emotion over came him. Ron and I started to tear up too. He finally choked out....I'm in the military. My mom gave me all she had, and 20.00 doesn't get me from Missouri to Colorado. My aunt and uncle borrowed 40.00 and I am stranded here in the cold. I have to be at post at 9:00 am. Thank you for being so kind and helping me. I couldn't choke anything out, I just nodded and wiped my tears.
We watched as he got in his car, wiping his tears. We hugged each other and I choked out......That is what Christ and Christmas is all about. We got into our warm Denali and drove off. Satisfied! As we passed our new friend, we honked and waved and prayed that he would make it safely to Colorado. It was foggy that night, but our vision was CLEAR. Jesus is the reason for the season.
Pay if Forward
I have missed writing here. I have been in a funky mood. No money, much pressure to provide, etc.
My friend Elaine ordered some Mary Kay from me and I felt I wanted to meet her in Grand Island, kind of half way for both of us. I felt that Justice and I could spend the day together and then hang out with Elaine, and my parents. Make it a day for his birthday. Dec. 9th was his birthday, but his friend was having a Air Soft Gun Party on Friday (which he had a blast) and so Saturday I promised him a date night.
I hadn't been speaking to Ron for about a week or so, but I was starting to soften. I asked if he wanted to go along. We tried to wake up Shai but she "didn't hear us". Justice asked Karrea to make sure she had her hat and gloves because it was extremely cold out. She started throwing a fit, and when I told her she wasn't going, the kicking and screaming started. I looked at Justice and said, LET'S GO. I wasn't in the mood to DEAL with Attitude that wasn't positive. I mean, really. I can barely stand to be around myself when I am full of "attitude".
Justice's favorite place to eat is Country Pride in Alda. Ron and I discovered it traveling back and forth on the interstate from Hasting to Kearney when there was so much construction in HWY 6/34.
Its all you can eat. Yep. You order off the menu, for ex. Hamburger and fries. You want another hamburger or fries, the waitress (in this case a waiter) will bring you another plate. J.D. was salivating. I have a hard time containing myself because I really want breakfast food. All you can eat pancakes, eggs, bacon, toast, etc. Oh, That is PURE HEAVEN for me.
Alas, I had a chopped sirloin, baked potato, and vegetable, and salad. I tried to be good, UNTIL the Strawberry Shortcake came out with ice cream and whipped topping.
Justice was kind enough to share. That was the waiter's way of saying HAPPY BIRTHDAY MAN. We were both surprised, it even had a burning candle on top. SWEET! We enjoyed every bite. He was so full he didn't have room to finish his second round of fries. OH Darn! It was getting time to meet Elaine so I gave the waiter my debit card. He said "It's already taken care of" I said, No it isn't! He repeated himself....."It's already taken care of!" and then he pointed to the man sitting diagonal from us.
I saw the man come in about 15 minutes earlier. He was a BIG, DARK, and TALL MAN. He had a DEEP VOICE, wasn't from around these parts. Huge Gold Necklaces around his neck, dark sunglasses still stylin on his face. He sounded like he was from Miami, or Brooklyn. He had is fingerless gloves still on too. Mind you, it was 12 degrees below zero with the wind biting everything that wasn't covered! I turned around in AW. I thanked him profusely. That was an extra 20.00 in my pocket. Justice and I talked with him for about 15 min. Found out he was from Miami, he owned his own trucking company, drives for a Utah company, (that is funny)and he has four boys of his own.
What a blessing he was for us that day. It re-established that there are good people out in the world....STILL. Oh, and never judge a book by its cover (or stature! lol) It made me want to PAY IT FORWARD. Do you have a PAY IT FORWARD story?
My friend Elaine ordered some Mary Kay from me and I felt I wanted to meet her in Grand Island, kind of half way for both of us. I felt that Justice and I could spend the day together and then hang out with Elaine, and my parents. Make it a day for his birthday. Dec. 9th was his birthday, but his friend was having a Air Soft Gun Party on Friday (which he had a blast) and so Saturday I promised him a date night.
I hadn't been speaking to Ron for about a week or so, but I was starting to soften. I asked if he wanted to go along. We tried to wake up Shai but she "didn't hear us". Justice asked Karrea to make sure she had her hat and gloves because it was extremely cold out. She started throwing a fit, and when I told her she wasn't going, the kicking and screaming started. I looked at Justice and said, LET'S GO. I wasn't in the mood to DEAL with Attitude that wasn't positive. I mean, really. I can barely stand to be around myself when I am full of "attitude".
Justice's favorite place to eat is Country Pride in Alda. Ron and I discovered it traveling back and forth on the interstate from Hasting to Kearney when there was so much construction in HWY 6/34.
Its all you can eat. Yep. You order off the menu, for ex. Hamburger and fries. You want another hamburger or fries, the waitress (in this case a waiter) will bring you another plate. J.D. was salivating. I have a hard time containing myself because I really want breakfast food. All you can eat pancakes, eggs, bacon, toast, etc. Oh, That is PURE HEAVEN for me.
Alas, I had a chopped sirloin, baked potato, and vegetable, and salad. I tried to be good, UNTIL the Strawberry Shortcake came out with ice cream and whipped topping.
Justice was kind enough to share. That was the waiter's way of saying HAPPY BIRTHDAY MAN. We were both surprised, it even had a burning candle on top. SWEET! We enjoyed every bite. He was so full he didn't have room to finish his second round of fries. OH Darn! It was getting time to meet Elaine so I gave the waiter my debit card. He said "It's already taken care of" I said, No it isn't! He repeated himself....."It's already taken care of!" and then he pointed to the man sitting diagonal from us.
I saw the man come in about 15 minutes earlier. He was a BIG, DARK, and TALL MAN. He had a DEEP VOICE, wasn't from around these parts. Huge Gold Necklaces around his neck, dark sunglasses still stylin on his face. He sounded like he was from Miami, or Brooklyn. He had is fingerless gloves still on too. Mind you, it was 12 degrees below zero with the wind biting everything that wasn't covered! I turned around in AW. I thanked him profusely. That was an extra 20.00 in my pocket. Justice and I talked with him for about 15 min. Found out he was from Miami, he owned his own trucking company, drives for a Utah company, (that is funny)and he has four boys of his own.
What a blessing he was for us that day. It re-established that there are good people out in the world....STILL. Oh, and never judge a book by its cover (or stature! lol) It made me want to PAY IT FORWARD. Do you have a PAY IT FORWARD story?
Friday, December 3, 2010
Thanksgiving Fun
A tradition I have started in the Matson family is that I give Thanks Giving Gifts. I started this a few years ago. It was so my family could see that I was truly thankful for them, even though I tend to be on the demanding side of the spectrum. In the past I have given "things". This year I gave them money. They got to pick out their own "things". Because of the money, it forced us to be together, and get along. I LOVED IT! We went where ever the kids wanted to check out the deals. We also went out for Pizza, Pop and Bread sticks. I think we had a wonderful night. If money was no object, I would do that every week!
We got home from the running around and as a "team" we started preparing for the family to be here the next day. It was Thanksgiving. We were fixing the Turkey mom sent home with us. I fixed a chocolate cream, strawberry cream, and Key Lime Pie. The kids got the potatoes scrubbed, peeled and cut, soaking in cold water. Ron peeled and cut up the carrots (we had 4 lbs of carrots, I told him we had some at home, but he didn't believe me :D) I baked the rolls, and made cheesy beans. Rachelle brought the pies (apple and pumpkin) and the relish tray (broccoli, carrots, haha, tomatoes and celery). Mom made the stuffing, scalloped corn, and sweet potato pie. We ate buffet style. I'm so glad, because then I didn't have the food staring at me the whole time. You had to GET UP and get the food if you wanted more. One plate was enough for me. I was so proud of myself. I made 2 kinds of mashed potatoes, one with butter and 1% milk and 1 with chicken broth. You know which one I ate. It was all so delicious.
Lyle, Russell, Rachelle, Lucas, mom, and dad, Shai, Justice, Karrea, Ron and I were here for lunch, and then later on Michael, Dana and Keagan showed up for family time. The guys watched a football game and the girls played dice and Hokie 6. We I believe, had a lovely day. We had a ham in the evening.
Dad needed to rest and mom was feeling sick so they headed off around 8 or so. As a family we sat around and watched a movie and enjoyed the rest of the evening.
Friday we sat around ALL DAY and watched movies and ate left overs. This is where I got in trouble. I could not resist mom's stuffing. It kept calling my name. Good thing I had a week to work it off. I ended up losing .2 lbs. I tried really hard to be good most days. It is frustrating......its like once you start on the "goodies" its hard to stop.
Monday I ended up making a turkey layer casserole to get "rid" of the left overs. Tuesday I made a hash brown casserole with the left over ham. They were both really good. (turkey gravy, stuffing, gravy, potatoes and sliced cheese, bake in the oven til hot. Frozen hash browns, cream of celery soup, a little bit of milk, some cheese and ham, bake in the oven for 50 minutes in 375 oven, like funeral potatoes.
What a great week. I feel really blessed. Its hard not having money for Christmas this year, but as usual we will survive and we will be better people. It's not the money anyway right? Its about Who we are Celebrating.
Happy Holidays Everyone.
Please share a Holiday Tradition with me!
We got home from the running around and as a "team" we started preparing for the family to be here the next day. It was Thanksgiving. We were fixing the Turkey mom sent home with us. I fixed a chocolate cream, strawberry cream, and Key Lime Pie. The kids got the potatoes scrubbed, peeled and cut, soaking in cold water. Ron peeled and cut up the carrots (we had 4 lbs of carrots, I told him we had some at home, but he didn't believe me :D) I baked the rolls, and made cheesy beans. Rachelle brought the pies (apple and pumpkin) and the relish tray (broccoli, carrots, haha, tomatoes and celery). Mom made the stuffing, scalloped corn, and sweet potato pie. We ate buffet style. I'm so glad, because then I didn't have the food staring at me the whole time. You had to GET UP and get the food if you wanted more. One plate was enough for me. I was so proud of myself. I made 2 kinds of mashed potatoes, one with butter and 1% milk and 1 with chicken broth. You know which one I ate. It was all so delicious.
Lyle, Russell, Rachelle, Lucas, mom, and dad, Shai, Justice, Karrea, Ron and I were here for lunch, and then later on Michael, Dana and Keagan showed up for family time. The guys watched a football game and the girls played dice and Hokie 6. We I believe, had a lovely day. We had a ham in the evening.
Dad needed to rest and mom was feeling sick so they headed off around 8 or so. As a family we sat around and watched a movie and enjoyed the rest of the evening.
Friday we sat around ALL DAY and watched movies and ate left overs. This is where I got in trouble. I could not resist mom's stuffing. It kept calling my name. Good thing I had a week to work it off. I ended up losing .2 lbs. I tried really hard to be good most days. It is frustrating......its like once you start on the "goodies" its hard to stop.
Monday I ended up making a turkey layer casserole to get "rid" of the left overs. Tuesday I made a hash brown casserole with the left over ham. They were both really good. (turkey gravy, stuffing, gravy, potatoes and sliced cheese, bake in the oven til hot. Frozen hash browns, cream of celery soup, a little bit of milk, some cheese and ham, bake in the oven for 50 minutes in 375 oven, like funeral potatoes.
What a great week. I feel really blessed. Its hard not having money for Christmas this year, but as usual we will survive and we will be better people. It's not the money anyway right? Its about Who we are Celebrating.
Happy Holidays Everyone.
Please share a Holiday Tradition with me!
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