Weaving Our Lives With Faith...Only God Can See The Thread

29 weeks, 3 days - Well Into My Third Trimester!

2009-02-22T14:59:00.005-05:00

I was thinking today about being pregnant... I feel so fortunate. Sometimes, I think it is a dream; this can’t be my life. I have such a wonderful husband and we are both so happy to have conceived this child. I’ve been lucky, we’ve been lucky, to found each other and to begin this journey together. It is a new life for both of us (and Madelyn too!).

The feeling of this little life kicking inside of me puts so many things into perspective. I am learning about a new kind of love; it is a love and a bond with something that is not yet fully formed. That makes it so special. I am in awe of this relationship I am building with a WONDERFUL little person that I don't fully know yet. I can't explain how that makes me feel. I am so excited and I can't wait until I get to meet her face to face for the first time! That is going to be a wonderful day!

Anyhow...

I have made it to my 3rd trimester! I am 29 weeks pregnant and I am feeling pretty good considering. I am starting to have trouble sleeping comfortably at night, but that is to be expected with a new person living inside of me. I have a little heartburn and indigestion when I overeat, but other than that I am good. Jimmy says that I am getting pretty moody. I am trying to be conscious of that when I blow up at him for no reason, but we will both survive... I have gained more weight, but not too much. I am at 165lbs now.

Madelyn is continuing to grow and she is moving about like crazy. She seems to enjoy music (I don't think I'd expect anything else from her). Jimmy bought some headphones that fit around my belly and I try to play music for her once or twice a day. I am hoping the stimulation will encourage her learning. She appears to be maintaining a pretty consistent sleep/wake cycle and I am starting to be able to predict when she will be most active. I hope she keeps this schedule when she gets here!

Way Past The Midpoint of Pregnancy!

2009-01-24T18:29:00.001-05:00

Wow! Time is Flying! In no way does it seem like I should be 25 weeks already! I only have 15 weeks left until my due date! That is crazy!

Anyhow. I have officially lost my "shape." I look like spongebob squarepants from behind... I am just one big square with newly discovered "back fat." Madelyn and I have gained 20 pounds so far (only about 2 of that is Madi) and hope to only gain 10 or 15 more. I am doing great. Madelyn is great as well. She moves more and more each day. I enjoy feeling her move. It is fun to watch my belly move with her... She seems to be on a regular "schedule" in there. LOL! She usually stops moving when Jimmy touches my belly. He says it is because she recognizes his authority... Yeah Right! He is SO TOTALLY going to melt when he holds her for the first time. I am not sure he will ever be able to tell her no. ...Only time will tell...

I am still craving lots of fruit and sweet stuff. I also enjoy anything made with pasta. I am starting to have a hard time sleeping. I can't get comfortable. Side sleeping is for the birds! My hips and back are killing me. However, it will all be worth it in 3 months or so.

Harley seems to "sense" that changes are coming. He has been acting weird and being really silly with me. we try to talk about the baby and say her name a lot. Jimmy bought a pack n play and we put it up. Harley is infatuated with it. I am hoping that by having things around it will ease the transition when Madelyn gets here.

We scheduled our Lamaze Class, Breastfeeding Class and our Hospital Tour. Those will all happen in March. My Baby shower is also scheduled for March. We are planning for March 21st. I am so excited!!!

Anyhow... This is getting a bit lengthy! I should take a break... That is the update! I'll add more soon!

Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread

2008-10-05T15:05:00.002-04:00

I was in the mood to bake today... So I am baking Pumpkin bread!!!

Pumpkin Bread

Makes approximately 12 muffins, 3 small loaves, or 1 large loaf

1 3/4 cup (1 15 oz. can) pureed pumpkin

1 1/2 cup brown sugar

1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, softened

3 eggs

3-4 cups all-purpose unbleached flour

2 tablespoons baking powder

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

2 cups chopped walnuts or chocolate chips

Preheat the oven to 350.

Combine the pumpkin, brown sugar, butter, and eggs and mix until creamy. In a separate bowl, combine all of the dry ingredients except the nuts or chocolate chips. Mix 3 cups of the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, then add as much of the 4th cup as necessary to achieve the proper consistency (moist, but thick enough to stand a spoon in). Add the nuts or chocolate chips and stir in.

Pour or spoon the batter into greased muffin tins or bread pans. Bake on the center rack until a toothpick poked into the center comes out dry. At sea level, muffins should take between 20 and 25 minutes to bake, small loaves between 25 and 30 minutes, and full sized loaves between 50 minutes and 1 hour.

8 weeks Preggers...

2008-09-27T19:48:00.001-04:00

All About Baby

Our baby is no longer a mass of cells, but he's looking more and more like a miniature baby-to-be. Our baby's face is becoming more defined: eyelids have formed, his nose is beginning to protrude, and his upper lip is taking shape. Where there once were only stubs, fingers and toes are starting to develop from his arms and legs. His heart is beating quickly (178 bpm) and strong inside his tiny body.

How Big Is Baby?

Our baby-to-be is now just over one half of an inch long. He's a little bigger than a dime.

Pregnant...AGAIN... For the long haul this time!

2008-09-26T12:12:00.002-04:00

Hi everyone! I just wanted to keep you in the loop. I am 8 weeks pregnant now. This Little Peanut appears to be sticking. We had an ultrasound a few weeks ago and it was good. Today we got to see our peanut again! And we saw a strong little heartbeat. It was 178 beats per minute. Baby was 1.95 centimeters long. I cried on the way there but once I got there I didn't cry. I thought I would...I almost did, but I didn't. Jimmy is definitely excited now. It was so cool to see the heartbeat. There was no mistaking that little flicker. I saw it right of the bat and felt immediate relief. Jimmy was happy to prove to me that there was a VERY STRONG heartbeat. He said his kids are going to be big and strong. We were both happy to hear everything is right on track. The doctor said I am within 1-2 days of my due date (May 7, 2009). So that is really good. I posted U/S pics on my baby page (http://my.babyfit.com/aejones). Keep us in your prayers!

When He Whispers

2008-08-01T22:00:00.001-04:00

My prayers for a healthy pregnancy are not going unanswered as much as God is responding in unexpected ways. I might be unaware of those ways right now, but God has a panoramic perspective of my life. He is not hiding that from me as much as I am often unwilling to listen. And through my stubbornness I have used the excuse of saying God is being silent, I can't hear Him...

However, sometimes when God seems silent he is surprisingly talkative - only whispering. He whispers so we are drawn closer to Him. Sometimes that means we don't always hear Him clearly, but God continues to speak drawing us into a deeper relationship with Him. It is only there in that intimate place that He will share with us HIS perspective and He allows us insight into His plan.

I hope that I can get to that place... That completely intimate place where God shares His plan for my life with me. If only I can learn to listen when He whispers...

Yogurt...

2008-07-23T13:04:00.002-04:00

So Jonesie suggested I share with the world how much I didn't like the texture of Yoplait Thick & Creamy Yogurt....

YUCK! I almost puked at the texture...

A Beautiful Prayer...

2008-07-17T20:34:00.002-04:00

I read this on Britney's babyfit journal. I thought it was beautiful and I just feel like I should make it my prayer too.

Father, we thank you that children are a heritage of the Lord and the fruit of the womb is his reward. children are your idea, Father. You thought up children and family and home. You instituted the family in the garden of Eden. You ordered children. You commanded them when you said to Adam and Eve, be fruitful and multiply. You said that the barren womb is never satisfied. Lord, the Word declares that I am wonderfully and fearfully made by you, therefore I'm perfect and able to conceive and have children. You said that I would be a fruitful vine by the side of our house and our children like olive plants around the table. We are not ashamed but happy because our quiver is full of children (or arrows as you call them).

Thank you, Father, that you designed and fashioned me to have children, that in the bible barrenness was the exception, not the rule, not your will, not normal, something against your plans and purpose. In your name, goodness, and faithfulness, every barren woman in the bible who was godly and believed your word became pregnant. You opened her womb and blessed her, and she gave birth to a precious baby just as I will. You make the barren woman to keep house and to be a joyful mother of children.

Amen

4 Days Past Ovulation

2008-07-17T17:24:00.003-04:00

I ovulated on Saturday. I am officially in the two week wait. I can test next weekend (July 26th). I am hoping it is positive, but if it is not I am OK with trying again.

It is the constant waiting that kills me. I wait to ovulate, wait to get my period or get a pos test, if I get a neg test, wait to start my period... It sucks to wait!!!

Thoughts on Becoming a Mother

2008-06-29T20:06:00.002-04:00

There are women that become mothers without effort, without thought, without patience or loss and though they are good mothers and love their children, I know that I will be better.

I will be better not because of genetics, or money or that I have read more books, but because I have struggled and toiled for this child. I have longed and waited. I have cried and prayed. I have endured and planned over and over again.

Like most things in life, the people who truly have appreciation are those who have struggled to attain their dreams. I will notice everything about my child. I will take time to watch my child sleep, explore and discover. I will marvel at this miracle every day for the rest of my life.

I will be happy when I wake in the middle of the night to the sound of my child, knowing that I can comfort, hold and feed him and that I am not waking to take another temperature, pop another pill, take another shot or cry tears of a broken dream.

My dream will be crying for me.

I count myself lucky in this sense; that God has given me this insight, this special vision with which I will look upon my child that my friends will not see.

Whether I parent a child I actually give birth to or a child that God leads me to, I will not be careless with my love.

I will be a better mother for all that I have endured. I am a better wife, a better aunt, a better daughter, neighbor, friend and sister because I have known pain.

I know disillusionment as I have been betrayed by my own body, I have been tried by fire and hell many never face, yet given time, I stood tall.

I have prevailed.

I have succeeded.

I have won.

So now, when others hurt around me, I do not run from their pain in order to save myself discomfort.

I see it, mourn it, and join them in theirs.

I listen.

And even though I cannot make it better, I can make it less lonely. I have learned the immerse power of another hand holding tight to mine, of other eyes that moisten as they learn to accept the harsh truth and when life is beyond hard.

I have learned a compassion that only comes with walking in those shoes.

I have learned to appreciate life.

Yes I will be a wonderful mother.

- Author Unknown

Update - Babies and Life...

2008-06-29T19:40:00.004-04:00

About a month ago (in May) I became pregnant. I tested with an early result test a few days before my period was due... It was Positive...

So anyway... This all caught Jimmy and I both by surprise. Jimmy more than me because he had no clue i was even considering taking a pregnancy test... We had talked previously and agreed that we may need to wait to have kids... BUT when we found out I was pregnant things quickly changed, and I mean quickly... It had to, we had no choice but to step up and be ready to raise a child. Jimmy was at work the day I found out I was pregnant and I felt bad because I called him with the news and there was nothing he could do because he was working... It was crazy. we both pondered it separately throughout the day and came home to discuss it. It turns out we both were more ready for children than we thought. It was a big relief because here we were... PREGNANT! We were happy, but reserved our excitement for a few days when we would have the pregnancy confirmed by a blood test.

Little did I know the at home test was "barely positive" by the time I got my blood test done at the OBGYN office my hCG level was only 7 ( if you know anything about hCG a level of <5 25 =" barely">25 = pregnant). The Dr told me to come back in two days to have my levels taken again... I didn't have to... That night I stated spotting and that progressed to heavily bleeding. I went in the next day to be told I was having an miscarriage AKA chemical pregnancy. The Dr says this is fairly common (something like 40% of all first time pregnancies end this way) and most times women do not know because their period just comes a little late, only really bad. He said it is most often due to some type of chromosomal defect in the blastocyst.

Because the Miscarriage occurred early on I didn't have to have a D & C. It happened naturally... It was definitely rough and very painful, both physically, mentally, and emotionally. I had prepared myself to have a baby and then it was gone... Just like that... This made me realize how much i really wanted a baby. I told Jimmy how I was feeling and he told me that he was basically waiting for me because I had always said I wanted to wait until after I get my masters degree... Well we talked more and have decided to try this summer to get pregnant... and stay pregnant...

So I guess we are officially trying to get pregnant...

So call me Suzie Homemaker... :)

2008-04-04T11:19:00.005-04:00

Last night Jimmy and I decided to get creative. I had bought four canvases and some acrylic paints a couple of weeks ago and we put them to use. We went to JoAnn Fabric Store and looked at fabric we liked and took pictures of them. We then brought the pictures home and began painting the canvases to look like the fabric, only we used the colors in our house. Below are pictures of our "craft time." I think Jimmy did an amazing job painting his two canvases! I married such a wonderful and creative man! My canvases are...well... not as good. But we worked together and had a wonderful time. Today we will hang them up in our house.

Hump Day

2008-04-03T01:03:00.007-04:00

Well, its Wednesday (Wednesday is the third day of the week in most western countries and the fourth day of the week in the Christian calendar, between Tuesday and Thursday)...half way through my SPRING BREAK, which is really no break at all; rather, it is a brief intermission between school work (UCF) and work at the school (TCHS), which is about as balanced as an upside down pyramid.
I feel, however, that I have gotten a lot accomplished this week... I went on a mini vacation with Jimmy's family and manged not to put my foot in my mouth even once the entire four days we were there. I bought curtains for ALL of the windows in my house and bribed my husband into putting them up for me (which required a lot of work and drilling thru concrete and metal). I completed 4 assignments that are due for my Nature of Autism Theory and Educational Practice class along with 4 tests that were to be completed by next week.

I am looking forward to Michelle and Nic coming to stay with us this coming weekend. It will be a nice ending to a somewhat successful week.

Weekend Getaway

2008-03-30T22:46:00.004-04:00

Jimmy and I are staying at Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort and Spa. It is a great place to stay. I am having lots of fun. We are in a 3 bedroom grand villa with a lakeside view of Downtown Disney. It is absolutely BEAUTIFUL. We will be here until Tuesday. I will take lots of pictures and share when I get home. :)

Uncanny TP Play Time

2008-03-27T14:22:00.007-04:00

Ok so most normal people would take pictures of their toddler playing with toilet paper, but if you know me you know I don't have any children. This is Harley, my only child. We couldn't find him and when we finally located him he was near the table hiding from us. He had found a roll of toilet paper within his reach. I couldn't scold him because it was the PERFECT opportunity for a photo. He was totally cute. :) If you'd like to see some other dogs playing with TP click here...

Scrappin'

2008-03-26T19:00:00.007-04:00

In my previous blog today I mentioned that I have been scrapbooking my wedding. Here are a few pages from the book...

Hello Blogland

2008-03-26T14:24:00.002-04:00

So it has been months since I last blogged. Not a whole lot has occurred since Christmas. Here are a few things... Nothing really interesting, but... this is what I am up to.

I began my Master's Degree in January and it is totally kicking my butt!
Memry went on maternity leave and I had to teach both her class and mine for 12 weeks.
I have been slowly decorating my house. (I will not paint until I am in a house that I will be in for a long time.)
Jimmy and I have been married for 6 months.
I am addicted to watching LOST and American Idol.
I am singing with the praise team at my mom's church.
I scrapbooked my wedding.
I have been cooking like crazy. It is so much fun!

Christmas Time is Here

2007-12-10T17:56:00.000-05:00

Well... it has been a loooooooooooooong time since I last blogged.

Since August I have gotten married and moved into my new home...But that's a whole other blog!

It has been a wonderful time! I absolutely love being married!!! Anyhow, I wanted to share pictures of my FIRST CHRISTMAS tree in my FIRST HOUSE.

I saw MY house!!!

2007-08-19T21:30:00.001-04:00

On Saturday I got a chance to walk through my house. It is beautiful. These are some pictures...

The RING

2007-08-05T22:38:00.000-04:00

So... THIS is RING #3!!! Isn't she a beauty?

I'm sure there are lots of dying children harvesting diamonds for rings like this... BUT I LOVE MY RING!!!!

A Quarter of a Century

2007-08-03T22:20:00.000-04:00

On August 6, 2007 (Monday) I will turn 25 years old. That is a quarter of a century! YUCK!

August 6th is the 218th day of the year, leaving 147 days to the end of the year.

August 6th is the day Jamaica celebrates its Independence day.

On my Birthday in:

1787 - Sixty proof sheets of the Constitution of the United States were delivered to the Constitutional Convention.

1926 - Harry Houdini performed his greatest feat, spending 91 minutes underwater in a sealed tank before escaping.

1945- World War II: Hiroshima is devastated when an atomic bomb, "Little Boy", is dropped by the United States B-29 Enola Gay. Around 90,000 people were killed instantly.

1962 - Jamaica becomes independent.

1984 - Pop star Prince releases Purple Rain, the album which would launch him to superstardom.

2001 - White House briefing entitled Bin Laden Determined to Strike in U.S. delivered to George W. Bush. This document foreshadowed the September 11, 2001 attacks.

These people share my Birthday:

1911 - Lucille Ball, American actress (d. 1989)

1925- Barbara Bates, American actress (d. 1969)

1926- Clem Labine, American baseball player (d. 2007)

1970- M. Night Shyamalan, Indian-born American film director

I am BLESSED! & Grass!

2007-08-01T19:36:00.000-04:00

So Jimmy and I went shopping today and on the way home we fantasized about driving to "our home." So we decided to detour from our usually route to his parents' house and went by our "soon-to-be" home. To our surprise we FINALLY have some landscaping. There are some bushes and some grass and even a few trees! This is really exciting because now it looks even more like a home.

I was thinking today...I am so blessed to have the opportunity for my first home to be completely new. Not only that, but GOD has shown himself true in so many ways throughout this whole process. It is in times like this that I become overwhelmed by how much GOD loves me. No matter how many times I fail, whether by screwing up rather royally, or just failing to listen to His call, He continues to love me just the same. I question sometimes; how is it that I am worthy of this love? And then I remember this: I am created in God's image and though I have fallen, God loved me so much that He sent His Son to die for all my shortcomings. This tells me something about my worth (and I have a tendency to question God and I often remind myself of this). When God says that He proved His love for us in that while we were yet sinners Christ died for us, He is expressing what we are worth to Him. He created us in His perfect image. He "owns" us so to speak. And in the shedding of Christ's blood, He bestowed upon us the greatest gift that He could give. God could have secured our salvation for a much lower price if He chose. He could have made things to turn out differently. But He chose the to offer the HIGHEST price for our salvation. And God tells us over and over how much we are worth to Him. He calls us sons, dearly loved children, and he tells us that He will give us good gifts and discipline. In other words, He will treat us the way loving father should treat his children. What are our own sons worth to us? They are priceless. There is no amount of money that could convince us to sell them. If that is so for sinful parents, how much more is it so for God? Will He ever give us up? Can anything ever separate us from His love?

So anyhow... I am VERY thankful to GOD for all He has done for me lately. I pray that He continues to bless Jimmy and I in our life together. I hope that you will pray the same for us as well.

Mission Accomplished: Wedding Invitations

2007-07-29T21:27:00.000-04:00

The Wedding Invitations are finished! I stayed up until 3am last night and then got up at 9am and worked on them until 1:30pm. They turned out nice! I still need to do wedding annoucements, but Jimmy and I need to have photos taken for those. I am going to mail those out to everyone we know. It will be fun!

Vidalia, Georgia

2007-07-20T20:13:00.000-04:00

This weekend Jimmy and I are with his parents in Vidalia, Georgia. There is not much here other than fields and lots of ONIONS. It is the "Home of the Vidalia Sweet Onion." It is pretty though.

We are here for his Granddaddy's 80th Birthday party. He is a pretty cool guy to be 80 years old! The party is tomorrow and we will go home Sunday... We'll see how that goes!

Bye, Bye Buick!

2007-07-19T22:41:00.001-04:00

So today I said goodbye to my faithful car...the BUICK Rendezvous...

Jimmy has been crunching numbers to be sure we will be financially stable once in our new home. He felt I needed a new(er) vehicle. So he had his dad make some calls. They found a 2007 FORD Escape Limited.

I bought it today. It is fully loaded with all the toys (leather seats, sun-roof etc...).It is not EXACTLY what I wanted (what I want is a REALLY EXPENSIVE GMC Acadia), but this is a great deal we could not pass up. I enjoy the toys and such my previous cars have not had.

Jimmy is afraid I don't like it. The truth is, I wanted a Mazda Tribute not long ago and it is the same car as the FORD Escape. However, I have been spoiled in a BUICK, the ultimate "luxury" type vehicle for the past like 3 years... I came to love it. Jimmy should understand that in time I will love this car just as much! But I will never love my car as much as I love him.

I am so thankful to have him. He is keeping me grounded in the craziness of our lives changing and becoming one [I thought that the "oneness" is what happened on your wedding night... but apparently it is a long drawn out process... Who knew that "oneness" had many meanings?].

Pictures of the MODEL home - Bayview

2007-07-19T22:27:00.000-04:00

These are pictures of the MODEL of our home. Our Town Home is laid out EXACTLY like this. However, we will have white walls, and, obviously, different furniture.

This is the Kitchen view from the breakfast nook.

This is the breakfast nook. The door on the left is the "powder room" a.k.a 1/2 bath.

This is a view from the dining room into the family room. The sliding doors are 8 feet tall!

This is "The Loft" - Jimmy's playroom

We Set a Date!

2007-07-19T22:14:00.000-04:00

I called yesterday and booked a beach for our wedding... Actually I reserved the arch and some tiki torches, but same difference. Beaches are public property! :)

Anyhow, Jimmy and I will be Married on September 8, 2007 @ 5:00pm.

I am VERY excited to FINALLY be approaching this day... However, I found an interesting cartoon... Is this REALLY what my life may become?

Potter...Again?

2007-07-15T15:24:00.000-04:00

We went last night and watched HP5 for the second time with Jimmy's cousins, Eric (12) and Erin (9). It was interesting. We wanted to go see it in 3-D at the I-Max Theater at Pointe Orlando, but the only available showing was too late for the kids. So we went to the AMC at Universal Orlando City Walk. The movie was great...again. I feel like I got more out of it the 2nd time. What was entertaining was that Erin, who is only 9 has never watched a Potter movie. She sat most of the movie with her eyes covered. I think she asked to go to the bathroom 4 times while we were in there. Its a good thing I had already seen the movie before! Eric didn't say much. He is too quiet for my taste. And GRUMPY as all get out! Well... here is a picture of the both of them...

Cheap color/cut/style

2007-07-13T22:04:00.002-04:00

I was feeling a bit adventurous today and I went to get my hair cut. Actually, I had them cut MANY hairs... LOL! I also has this wonderful hair stylist highlight my hair. It was quite the fiasco. She was ill (or maybe just hungry -> she kept eating crackers) and grumpy... I was so scared she would mess up. Anyhow, I was under the dryer [for what seemed like eternity] and my foils were getting blown around one blew off and I got "hair dye stuff" all over my hands trying to shield my eyes! A nice old lady was gracious enough to help me out and fold the foil back around my hair.

All in all it turned out nice! Or at least I think so...

Carpet Throughout House

2007-07-13T22:01:00.000-04:00

This is My Carpet!!!! It's called "Traildust"

My kitchen countertops

2007-07-13T21:53:00.000-04:00

This is the color of my Countertops! It is called Mystique Dawn....

We are registered!!!

2007-07-12T20:00:00.001-04:00

Hello -
We just wanted to let you know that we've registered with Club Wedd at Target.com to get ready for our future together! You can take a look at our Registry online at http://www.target.com/clubwedd or visit the Registry kiosk at any Target store!

We still don't know our exact wedding date. That depends on when our house will be ready!

Best Wishes,

Jimmy Jones and Amanda Burrows

Pictures of our house!!!

2007-07-07T21:09:00.000-04:00

Well... I took some pictures with my cell phone today... This is our house... Not yet finished... A work in progress!

wedding announcement wording

2007-07-07T17:45:00.000-04:00

http://www.partypop.com/Forums/Weddings/m23455.htm

Read any good books lately?

2007-07-06T23:50:00.000-04:00

Ok so it is summer and I love to read in my spare time. I am not working until August 13th, I am having lots of free time right now.

I am hoping a few good people will reply with a few good reads for me. So... tell me... what book should I read next?

How women see themselves

2007-07-06T21:57:00.000-04:00

Age 8 Looks at herself and sees:Cinderella/Sleeping Beauty.

Age 15 Looks at herself and sees:Cinderella/Sleeping Beauty/Cheerleader or if she is PMS'ing, sees: Pimples/UGLY ("Mom, I can't go to school looking like this!")

Age 20 Looks at herself and sees:"Too fat/too thin, too short/too tall, too straight/too curly" but decides she's going out anyway.

Age 30 Looks at herself and sees:"Too fat/too thin, too short/too tall, too straight/too curly" but decides she doesn't have time to fix it so she's going out anyway.

Age 40 Looks at herself and sees:"Too fat/too thin, too short/too tall, too straight/too curly" but says, "At least, I'm clean" and goes out anyway.

Age 50 Looks at herself and sees:"I am" and goes wherever she wants to.

Age 60 Looks at herself and reminds herself of all the people who can't even see themselves in the mirror anymore and goes out and conquers the world.

Age 70 Looks at herself and sees:wisdom, laughter and ability and goes out and enjoys life.

Age 80 Doesn't bother to look. Just puts on a red hat and goes out to participate in the world.

Age 90 Can't see and doesn't worry about it!

Cool Home Design Website...

2007-07-05T23:27:00.001-04:00

http://designtalk.homevisions.com/

Colors I'd like for my Living room... Chocolate and Blue...

2007-07-05T23:13:00.000-04:00

Here are my inspirations for the colors in my [future] living room...Jimmy and I will have chocolate/espresso colored couches. I would like to make my own throw pillows. I am hoping my [favorite] cousin will help me do up a canvas for wall art using these colors. I am sure they are available in the bohemian themed scrapbook stuff. :)

We're Buying a Townhome!

2007-07-01T10:53:00.000-04:00

So it looks like jimmy and I are buying a townhome. I am very excited! This is a process we are both totally unfamilar with... So I will have to keep everyone updated on the happenings... :)

Below is the link to our floor plan...
Pulte Homes - Bayview (end unit) Floor Plan

Inclusion: How do YOU feel?

2007-06-01T18:23:00.000-04:00

Inclusion of all children with disabilities in regular classrooms seems to be the law of the land. But is it the right thing for all kids? And how are parents, teachers and regular education peers handling it?

What is INCLUSION? -- the idea that all children, including those with disabilities, should and can learn in a regular classroom.

In order to discuss the concept of inclusion, it is first necessary to have a common vocabulary. Research Bulletin Number 11, 1993, from Phi Delta Kappa's Center for Evaluation, Development, and Research provides a useful set of definitions.

Mainstreaming - Generally, mainstreaming has been used to refer to placement of special education students in one or more "regular" education classes. Proponents of mainstreaming generally assume that a student must "earn" his or her opportunity to be placed in regular classes by demonstrating an ability to "keep up" with the work assigned by the regular classroom teacher. This concept is closely linked to traditional forms of special education service delivery.

Inclusion - Inclusion is a term which expresses commitment to educate each child, to the maximum extent appropriate, in the school and classroom he or she would otherwise attend. It involves bringing the support services to the child (rather than moving the child to the services [in a separate class or school]) and requires only that the child will benefit from being in the class (rather than having to keep up with the other students). Proponents of inclusion generally favor newer forms of education service delivery.

Full Inclusion - Full inclusion means that all students, regardless of handicapping condition or severity, will be in a regular classroom/program full time. All services must be taken to the child in that setting.

In addition to problems related to definition, it also should be understood that there often is a philosophical or conceptual distinction made between mainstreaming and inclusion. Those who support the idea of mainstreaming believe that a child with disabilities first belongs in the special education environment and that the child must earn his/her way into the regular education environment.

In contrast, those who support inclusion believe that the child always should begin in the regular environment and be removed only when appropriate services cannot be provided in the regular classroom.

WHAT DOES RESEARCH TELL US ABOUT THE EFFECTS OF INCLUSION?

Although limited, the consistency with which existing studies indicate that inclusion does not harm non disabled children are encouraging.

The benefits of inclusion for all students require active mediation of the experience by teachers, as well as the transfer of resources from traditional special education programs to support children placed in regular class. - Staub, D. (1995) What are the outcomes for non-disabled students? Educational Leadership

Special needs students educated in regular classes do better academically and socially than comparable students in non inclusive environments. The effects of inclusion are positive and worthwhile, but they are not huge. To reduce the gap between special and regular students requires both inclusion of special needs students and effective educational methods for all students. - Baker, E., Wang, M, and Walberg, H. 1995 The effects of inclusion on learning: synthesis of research. Educational Leadership

Harley's Love Affair

2007-05-31T22:42:00.000-04:00

"She kisses like a fish!"

"Mmmm... What's down there?"

"This guy's a HUNK"

"Aren't I a Cutie PaTootie?"

My IQ is 132

2007-05-31T21:16:00.001-04:00

Things I Love about The Love of My Life, Jimmy...

2007-05-27T15:43:00.000-04:00

In No Particular Order...

o He always buys me my favorite candy even when I don’t ask for it

o He always has crazy jokes and makes me laugh

o He always prays about our life and future together

o He always puts me first

o He always tells me how pretty I am

o He buys me awesome gifts that I don’t deserve; even when we’ve had a fight…that was most likely my fault…

o He has become a good listener when I just need to vent

o He is affectionate all the time

o He is always there for me and doesn’t try to tell me what to do

o He is gentle to me, but strong, forceful and kind when it is necessary

o He is trustworthy

o He is very gifted in many things - kind of a jack-of-all trades kind of man and I love that about him. He can do anything he sets his mind to do and do it well!!

o He is willing to do anything to make me happy even if it makes him miserable

o He knows himself and is simply content with who he is

o He knows how much I love my head rubbed and massaged and he will do it without complaint even when I know he would rather sit still and watch TV

o He likes to be with me, and misses me when he’s gone or I’m gone or one of us works late

o He listens and supports me and when I am at a loss for how to proceed with a situation he gives me his opinion… I value his opinion… He knows this and often insists I take his advice… I think that is kind of cute!

o He lives his life in reflection of his Heavenly Father and leads other to reflect that as well

o He loves my dog, Harley, as much as I do

o He puts up with my “redneck” family

o He shares my passion for ice cream and chocolate

o He smells so good all the time

o He worries about me when I am sad or sick or just not feeling normal

o His constant desire to please me unselfishly

o His devotion to God

o His honesty

o His huge giving heart

o His loyalty to me and our families

o How he can fix anything

o How he notices when I take extra effort with my clothes, hair or make-up, and compliments me

o That he will WILLINGLY go scrapbook shopping with me and help me plan the spreads at the store to make sure I get all I need

o The look on his face when he watches me “primping” in the mirror

o The sense of security and confidence I feel just having him around

o The way he can make me SOOO mad and then just laugh at me for letting him make me that angry and then we both laugh

o The way he makes me smile when I’ve had a TERRIBLE day

o When he kisses my forehead…The sweetest thing…

o When he surprises me by saying just what I was thinking– before I do (especially to somebody I shouldn’t have said it to, but he can get away with it)

Bored... House/Dog Sitting... Meet the Fam...

2007-05-27T14:55:00.000-04:00

So... I am spending a week watching Katie and Cortney's dogs and cats... Fun Fun Fun!!! I thought I'd share with you all how cute they are...

Ty-Ty - Stealth Ninja Cat - He is so quick I couldn't get a photo of him...

Tigger - a Beautiful Cat - He is fun-loving and quiet... He likes chillin and eating tuna...

Tinker - the Elder - Keeps to herself... Lives by the motto, "you scratch my back, I'll scratch yours..."

Mercedez - Psycho Puppy - Enjoys barking and eating random household items... She thinks shes the alpha dog.

I brought Harley with me. He and Mercedez have developed a love-hate relationship...

Neutered...

2007-05-12T21:41:00.000-04:00

Harley will be neutered and microchipped on Monday, May 14th.

I am feeling a little guilty about stealing his manhood... But this picture makes it a little better...

What Makes a House a Home?

2007-05-12T20:48:00.000-04:00

Jimmy and I are looking for a house in Orlando. It is proving to be "MISSION IMPOSSIBLE." It makes me pretty sad!

Beaches & Cream

2007-04-15T21:29:00.000-04:00

Yesterday (4/14/2007) I went on another awesome adventure with Memry and her adorable children (and a few other children). We went to Disney's Beach Club Resort for burgers and ice cream at the Beaches & Cream Soda Shop. This fifties themed soda shop is the home of the famous "Kitchen Sink Sundae" that includes every flavor of ice cream in the place AND a kitchen sink!

So... if you know Memry you know she had to "Scrapbook" this whole trip. we ordered the famous KITCHEN SINK SUNDAE. It was presented to our table with flashing lights and an announcement bellowed across the soda shop by our server and everyone cheered. It was too cute! The kids were in awe of the whole presentation, let alone the enormity of the sundae itself. And let me just say that this sundae was impossible (for even 4 kids and 2 adults) to finish. It had every flavor of ice cream imaginable, brownies, muffins, angel food cake, candy bars, oreos, bananas, strawberries, chocolate/peanut butter/caramel/butterscotch syrups, whipped cream, nuts, cherries, and much MUCH more!

We had an awesome time! It was pretty far to drive for just ice cream, but the experience made it worth the effort. If you are ever in the area you have got to go eat at Beaches & Cream Soda Shop!

April is Autism Awareness Month

2007-04-09T13:58:00.000-04:00

What is Autism Awareness Month?
Autism Awareness Month, celebrated every year in April, provides an opportunity for families, friends, and local communities to raise public awareness about autism. It is sponsored by the Autism Society of America (ASA).

What is autism?
Autism is a complex neurobiological disorder that typically lasts throughout a person's lifetime. It is part of a group of disorders known as Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD). Today, 1 in 150 individuals is diagnosed with autism, making it more common than pediatric cancer, diabetes, and AIDS combined. It occurs in all racial, ethnic, and social groups and is four times more likely to strike boys than girls. Autism impairs a person's ability to communicate and relate to others. It is also associated with rigid routines and repetitive behaviors, such as obsessively arranging objects or following very specific routines. Symptoms can range from very mild to quite severe. Autism was first identified in 1943 by Dr. Leo Kanner of Johns Hopkins Hospital. At the same time, a German scientist, Dr. Hans Asperger, described a milder form of the disorder that is now known as Asperger Syndrome. These two disorders are listed in the DSM IV (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders) as two of the five developmental disorders that fall under the Autism Spectrum Disorders. The others are Rett Syndrome, PDD NOS (Pervasive Developmental Disorder), and Childhood Disintegrative Disorder. All of these disorders are characterized by varying degrees of impairment in communication skills and social abilities, and also by repetitive behaviors

What causes autism?
There is no single known cause for autism. However, it is generally agreed that it is caused by abnormalities in brain structure or function. Brain scans have shown differences in the shape and structure of the brain in children with autism when compared to those without the condition. Researchers are investigating a number of theories, including a link between heredity, genetics, and birth-related medical problems. Psychological factors are not believed to be the cause of autism.

How is autism treated?
Experts agree that early intervention is important in addressing the symptoms associated with autism. Most professionals also agree that individuals with autism respond well to highly structured, specialized education programs that are designed to meet the individual's particular needs. In any treatment plan, it is important for family members and treatment providers to address areas of social skill development, communication, behavior, and sensory integration.

Jessica's Baby Shower...

2007-04-08T19:55:00.000-04:00

Who is This Man?

2007-04-08T19:40:00.000-04:00

IN CHEMISTRY, HE TURNED WATER TO WINE

IN BIOLOGY, HE WAS BORN WITHOUT THE NORMAL CONCEPTION

IN PHYSICS, HE DISPROVED THE LAW OF GRAVITY WHEN HE ASCENDED INTO HEAVEN

IN ECONOMICS, HE DISPROVED THE LAW OF DIMINISHING RETURN BY FEEDING 5000 MEN WITH TWO FISHES & 5 LOAVES OF BREAD

IN MEDICINE, HE CURED THE SICK AND THE BLIND WITHOUT ADMINISTERING A SINGLE DOSE OF DRUGS

IN HISTORY, HE IS THE BEGINNING AND THE END

IN GOVERNMENT, HE SAID THAT HE SHALL BE CALLED WONDERFUL COUNSELOR, PRINCE OF PEACE

IN RELIGION, HE SAID NO ONE COMES TO THE FATHER EXCEPT THROUGH HIM

SO...

WHO IS HE?

HE IS JESUS!

Reality Check

2007-04-05T08:39:00.000-04:00

...When parents learn their child has a disability, they often react to it as if their child is dying a horrible disease. Although the child is alive and well, certain hopes, dreams, and ambitions they had for that child’s future are dead. In order to help their child, parents must grieve, rage, and finally move toward acceptance. This process is mirrored in the child with the disability. Like his/her parents, the child with the disability must find a way to accept his/her unique combination of strengths and weaknesses. The person with the disability must come to the fact that his/her life may never be ordinary, but it may be extraordinary!

Yesterday, I met parents who adopted a young child from an orphanage in Guatemala. They thought they were getting the PERFECT child. However, 2 years later, they find out he has a moderate learning disability.

I found myself choking back tears as I was telling them that their child would never learn the way other children do; that their child would have to be taught strategies to work around the memory and processing centers in the brain that do not function as “normal” people’s do... The parents were devastated. They had a difficult time wrapping their minds around this concept. I think that they were more upset that their child was going to be “labeled” for life (the mom said that)… Which makes sense, but how could they have such a negative outlook? Why not be realistic and deal with the issue at hand? The earlier you intervene, the better of a chance the child has at overcoming the learning disability and gaining appropriate strategies for successful learning…

...How would you feel if you were these parents?

Jimmy Gave In

2007-04-01T00:19:00.000-04:00

So tonight Jimmy created a blog. I am excited. Now he can take all of the wonderful and intelligent things he thinks and put them out there for the world to read! He has too much good stuff inthere to keep it all to himself.

Good Times!

2007-03-26T14:05:00.000-04:00

So my cousin came to spend the weekend with me. It was a lot of fun. I really enjoy spending time with her especially since we have so much in common. It brings me so much joy to be able to connect with someone in my family. I find it amazing how we spent many years pretty much out of immediate contact and somehow ended up on the same page…WEIRD!

We were blessed to have been able to take our younger cousin, Jessica, shopping on Saturday. Jessica is expecting her first child in June. (I’m SO JEALOUS!!!) We took her to buy “maternity” clothes. It was neat that NONE of the clothes we bought were maternity. The style now is so blousy that she didn’t have to get maternity. How cool is that?

Anyhow, we (Michelle and I) had a great time; lots of great fellowship together. I don’t really attend church much anymore… so it was nice to discuss my stressors with Michelle and get her feedback on it. I really love her and thank God she is close enough to me now to be a bigger, more involved, part of my life. :)

Michelle is Coming!

2007-03-22T20:57:00.000-04:00

My favorite cousin, Michelle, is coming to stay with me this weekend. I am VERY excited that she is coming. We have a fun weekend planned! We are going scrapbooking on Friday night at Memry's house. Saturday morning, if we are coherent, we are going with our moms and our cousin, Jessica (she's having a baby soon), to buy Jessica some items she needs since she is pregnant. That is going to be so much fun! Anyhow, the girly times we will have this weekend are much needed especially since we work so much. It is nice for all of us to get a break and enjoy one another. :) I will write more after my weekend...

What is Saint Patrick's Day?

2007-03-17T21:41:00.000-04:00

Brief Overview:

St. Patrick is believed to have driven the snakes from Ireland. Once a pagan himself, St. Patrick is one of Christianity's most widely known figures.

The modern secular holiday is based on the original Christian saint's feast day also thought to be the date of the saint's death. In 1737, Irish immigrants to the United States began observing the holiday publicly in Boston and held the first St. Patrick's Day Parade in New York City in 1766.

Today, the tradition continues with people from all walks and heritages by wearing green, eating Irish food, and attending parades. St. Patrick's Day is bursting with folklore; from the shamrock to the leprechaun and to pinching those that are not wearing green.

What Did St. Patty Do?

It has long been recounted that, during his mission in Ireland, St. Patrick once stood on a hilltop (which is now called Croagh Patrick), and with only a wooden staff by his side, banished all the snakes from Ireland.

In fact, the island nation was never home to any snakes. The "banishing of the snakes" was really a metaphor for the eradication of pagan ideology from Ireland and the triumph of Christianity. Within two hundred years of Patrick's arrival, Ireland was completely Christianized.

My New Book: The Dust Off Their Feet: Lessons from the First Church

2007-03-17T21:24:00.000-04:00

I don't know... The book is about the book of Acts from the bible.

I thought it looked cool. I liked the feet. We'll see...

$crapbook $hopping $$$

2007-03-14T22:05:00.000-04:00

This week, EVERY DAY... I went shopping for scrapbook supplies... Oh MY! I never knew how crazy I would go over scrapbooking. It is incredibly addictive. I went all out too!

I now own a rolling scrapbook cart, and supply carrying bag and all sorts of scrapbook things. It is costing me mucho money$$$$$$! Anyhow, I think I am set for a while... I think...

ICEBERG Wedge

2007-03-12T19:26:00.000-04:00

Michelle thinks I am silly... I had no clue what an iceberg wedge was. Well... This is what it looked like after I ordered it... So for all those people who don't know; now you know. Wedge means a wedge of lettuce! Thanks Michelle!

I am Chocolate Cake

2007-03-11T21:09:00.001-04:00

You Are a Chocolate Cake

Fun, comforting, and friendly.
You are a true classic, and while you're not super cutting edge, you're high quality.
People love your company - and have even been known to get addicted to you.

What Kind of Cake Are You?

Interesting Book... "SEX GOD"... Good Read!

2007-03-11T18:58:00.000-04:00

Below is a description from Amazon...

Bell raises the bar with this evocative follow-up to last year's bestseller Velvet Elvis. "Is sex a picture of heaven?" he wonders. It's all about God and sex and heaven, he says: "...they're connected. And they can't be separated. Where the one is you will always find the other." Bell's book isn't a sex manual, an exploration of the differences between men and women or a marriage how-to, though all of that is here. Instead, it's the story of God becoming human, of humans mirroring God and love made manifest in the chaos of our humanity. Sex God is about relationships revealed in a way that elevates the human condition and offers hope to those whose relationships are wounded. In Bell's spare, somewhat oblique style, he addresses lust, respect, denial, risk, acceptance and more. His love for God and the Bible is clear, as is his ability to ask probing questions and offer answers that make readers think deeply about their own lives. He does a fine job using the Bible and real life to show that our physical relationships are really about spiritual relationships. This book joyfully ties, and then tightens, the knot between God and humankind. (Mar.)

The book is a lot more than the title as you can see... I read it in 2 days, it is a quick read. I wouldn't say it was as good as "Velvet Elvis" but it was good. I enjoyed how Bell explains sexuality as being a God given thing. Especially since a lot of christians (like me), who grew up in the church, grew up being taught to supress their sexuality because it is sinful. I think this "christian" view on human sexuality only contributes to mutiple marriage counseling sessions later in life... The chapter "Too many People Under the Chuppah" was great especially after I googled the word "chuppah" and read up on what is actually was... Anyhow, the book was good and it really hit home with me on a lot of things.

Life is a BEACH

2007-03-11T13:24:00.000-04:00

So... I spent the weekend (March 9-11, 2007)at Disney's Vero Beach Resort with Jimmy and his family. We had an awesome time. It was soooo beautiful. Much to my surprise, I really enjoyed myself. I was able to read an entire book, SEX GOD by Rob Bell, it was rather interesting.... I also enjoyed some really good food at the resort restaurant, SHUTTERS. If you know me well, you know I LOVE FOOD!!! We stayed in a 3 Bedroom Beach Cottage (picture below). From our cottage we could constantly hear the sound of the crashing waves (picture above is off of the 2nd story back balcony). It was VERY relaxing. There is something wonderful about being that near to the ocean. (I definitely had no problem falling asleep).

So anyhow, we arrived on Friday evening (Jimmy had to work) and met his parents for dinner at SHUTTERS. I ordered an Iceberg Wedge for my appetizer... Why didn't anyone tell me that iceberg wedge literally meant WEDGE of ICEBERG LETTUCE. Yuck! For my entree I had a Spit Fired-Half Chicken with mashed potatoes and garlicky spinach it was great. Jimmy, of course, had steak. We went back to the room and the family watched movies while I began my book. I fell asleep early that night.

Saturday, Jimmy and I slept in until 11:30am or so. We had missed breakfast... BUT I had chocolate cake and Cheeto's (Don't Ask!) and then Jimmy cooked us eggs and canadian bacon. After our breakfast we found our way out to the beach. It was beautiful! We walked along the beach and took pictures. I enjoyed it. When we tired of that, we went to the pool and then back to the cottage and I finished my book. Jimmy and I decided we wanted a drink so we walked to the pool and ordered 4 "Sunken Treasure" drinks... MMMMMmmmmm... They were awesome (we didn't drink all four, we shared)!

As you can see, I had a great time. Sorry you all couldn't have been there also!

My Favorite Song ... GLORY

2007-03-06T11:15:00.000-05:00

GLORY - Selah and Nicole Nordeman

One day eyes that are blind will see you clearly And one day all who deny will finally believe One day hearts made of stone will break in pieces And one day chains once unbroken will fall down at your feet So we wait for that one day come quickly

We want to see your Glory Every knee falls down before thee Every tongue offers you praise With every hand raised Singing Glory To you and unto you only We'll sing Glory to Your name

One day voices that lie will all be silent One day all that's divided will be whole again One day death will retreat and wave it's white flag One day love will defeat the strongest enemy So we wait for that one day come quickly

We want to see your Glory Every knee falls down before thee Every tongue offers you praise With every hand raised Singing Glory To you and unto you only We'll sing Glory to Your name

We know not the day or the hour Or the moments in between But we know the end of the story When we'll see

Your Glory Every knee falls down before thee Every tongue offers you praise With every hand raised Singing Glory To you and unto you only We'll sing Glory to Your name

What Kind of Cook?

2007-03-03T22:24:00.001-05:00

You Are a Learning Cook

You've got the makings of an excellent cook, and the desire to be one.
But right now, you're just lacking the experience. You couldn't be a top chef yet, but you could be an apprentice.

Are You A Good Cook?

Be a Light

2007-03-01T19:36:00.000-05:00

So yesterday a co-worker sent me a very eye-opening email....

"It has been a blessing to have known you, you are God sent. I’m so thankful are to him for placing you here and I know it wasn’t by accident. I will pray that you will be placed here next year. I can’t even imagine it without you."

New to my workplace, I was completely unaware I had made an impact on anybody. I had just been myself. I guess we don't really pay attention to how every word we say and all our actions are constantly being observed by others, and we touch people just by living our lives.

Hmmmm... Just something to think about!

Oh how it must feel to have to take FCAT

2007-02-28T10:34:00.000-05:00

Today I am "FCAT-ing." I can't imagine... How funny is this?

2007-02-28T09:20:00.001-05:00

Amanda --
[adjective]:

Fuzzy to the touch

'How" will you be defined in the dictionary?' at QuizGalaxy.com

My First Blog

2007-02-27T12:48:00.001-05:00

I made it to the world of Blogging!