tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-86272308721704806922024-03-05T08:04:56.267-06:00Ramblings of a Crazy WomanTrudyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02661828920229028187noreply@blogger.comBlogger188125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8627230872170480692.post-84638678320766502772011-10-29T09:22:00.001-05:002011-10-29T09:22:37.048-05:00Laparoscopic SurgeryA week ago Friday I had a procedure done called laparoscopic "something or another"!!! In my world they went inside and looked around to figure out where the pain was coming from!! Whatever word they want to call it is fine with me. :)<br />
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Turns out I had some scarring from one of my C-sections (I'm assuming my most recent one) that was causing me some problems. He (the Doctor) cleaned it up and now all is well!! Now as simple as that may seem, it turns out this procedure was a little more than what I thought it was going to be.</div>
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I had honestly downscaled this thing to a couple of little incisions, home by noon, carry on with your day. I had even thought about going shopping afterward! Well, that was a little bit of an underestimate, now, granted it wasn't as bad as a C-section, but it was definitely not as simple as I had made it out to be.</div>
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The big problem? It wasn't the three little itty bitty incisions, it wasn't being "put under", and it wasn't all the stupid prep stuff you had to do before you could even arrive. It was the "air" they used to "blow up your belly" to make sure there's plenty of room to do what they need to do. Now they had told me about the whole air thing, and I was fine with it. What's a little bit of air?? ..."You may have some pain in your right shoulder as your body works to get rid of the excess..." the doctor told me the day we discussed doing the procedure. A little bit of pain? Eh...no big, I have a high pain tolerance, I can handle it. Well, again, this procedure that I had downscaled in my mind to no big deal ended up being a bigger deal that I had realized.</div>
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Mind you we're pastors and I have four children (two away and two at home). I made the decision not to tell anyone I was having this procedure because I didn't want to explain all the details of why to every Tom, Dick and Harry in the country, and the church, and my home. Coincidently, the two kids still at home were all gone the day of the procedure only making it even easier to not have to explain any details. So, off we go to our 6:00 a.m. appointment, procedure at 7:30. As I mentioned earlier, everything went fine, we were in fact in and out, Patrick and I left the hospital around 11:00 and we were home by noon. This is when the reality started settling in. Not only did I not feel like going shopping afterward, I was groggy, and felt like a stuffed pig. My belly was tight, they put me on weight lifting restrictions, and submersion in water restrictions (kinda a problem for my water aerobics class) and, they sent me home on pain pills!! Pain pills???? WHAT???</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The IV bruise!! The nurse told me... "It's going to bruise<br />bad, it's already started..." that was after surgery when she<br />was getting ready to take the IV out.</td></tr>
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I tried going without the pills. Nope that didn't work. I tried half doses. Nope. That didn't work either. I finally ended up taking full doses for two days to help with the pain. And again, it was the incisions, it was the air. Remember that pain in my shoulder that I might have. Well, there's no doubt, I had it. And it hurt!!!</div>
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It's been a full week now and I did quit my pain pills after the 4th day, but had to continue with Tylenol pretty regularly. Yesterday I only had two doses so I foresee being off even Tylenol in a day or two. The pain from the air is almost completely gone; every now and then I still have a little twinge, but it's almost gone--Thank God! (literally)</div>
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So, to wrap it up, if your Dr. recommends laparoscopy just know that though it may be on the low end of the scale of surgeries, its still definitely on the scale!!! Don't downplay it too much, if it was just an office procedure, you wouldn't be checking into the hospital. Just sayin'....</div>
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I'm glad I did it. The Dr. told Patrick I probably didn't even realize how much pain I was actually in because I had probably adjusted over the years (an important detail here...it's been 11 1/2 years since my most recent C-section) and I am already recognizing some of the adjustments I have made through the years in these first days after the procedure. It's actually pretty amazing how God designed our bodies. I'm so thankful for the wisdom God has granted my Dr. I'm really looking forward to being pain free!!<span id="goog_405736374"></span><span id="goog_405736375"></span></div>
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<br /></div>Trudyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02661828920229028187noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8627230872170480692.post-19216594939762151082011-10-03T20:13:00.001-05:002011-10-03T20:13:15.322-05:00My Crazy Idea!!I decided to go back to school this year!!! On one hand, its a fabulous idea. I need the accolade for my resume, so its a great idea to go back and finish what I started SOOOOO many years ago. I only lost a few hours in the transition of a medical focus to a business focus, so overall, it was a great plan.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgknfALAXcTR1SeOT-sszvrZkl_W18N0W8OKI8W9sk36oWSiG4M8ApeyDQmsSTy8dLw69WyBqCHw0NquLiWM4CSXe_MK4v6sLSzchnCE4XkxtzwQ2Zbj-HSnb8hK3TFKejKaWd5AUitkBY/s1600/IMG_1519.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgknfALAXcTR1SeOT-sszvrZkl_W18N0W8OKI8W9sk36oWSiG4M8ApeyDQmsSTy8dLw69WyBqCHw0NquLiWM4CSXe_MK4v6sLSzchnCE4XkxtzwQ2Zbj-HSnb8hK3TFKejKaWd5AUitkBY/s200/IMG_1519.jpg" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is my instructor for my<br />History of the Nine Tribes.<br />She's standing next to a<br />mannequin of an Indian Chief.</td></tr>
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Next, since I'm such a busy woman, I decided it was in my best interest to have all my classes on Tues, Thurs. Good idea right??? Well, I'm not sure if it was a good idea or not! Right now I have back to back classes, which means I leave at 8:30 and don't get home until 5:30, then if there's homework, I have only have Wednesday to get it done before Thursday arrives again. I'm not so sure that was such a great idea.<br />
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Beyond that I hate being completely unavailable on Tues/Thurs. I can't help anyone with anything on those days...that's driving me crazy!!!! In a couple of weeks, my first 8 weeks class will end and my 2nd eight weeks class will start which will change me to having 1-3 on T/TH open and book me from 11-12:30 MWF. Not sure I'm going to like that either, but were going to give it a whirl!!!<br />
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btw...it's nice to be back...I missed you all!! :)Trudyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02661828920229028187noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8627230872170480692.post-55163244924703543902011-09-23T10:31:00.002-05:002011-09-23T10:31:34.750-05:00Yes, I'm still here!!Today I wanted to update on exercise and weight loss! I have started using HCG to help with my weight loss. If you have any questions about it just ask. This is my third round and I've lost a total of 30 pounds. I was EXTREMELY skeptical of the program, but after reading the manuscript "Pounds and Inches" I decided to give it a try. It's working very well, and I am pleased with the outcome.<br />
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I have also started water aerobics. And though I'm not a water bug, I like it A LOT! I can't believe how much twice a week is affecting my over all health. :)<br />
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Will be back soon for more updates on other things...Trudyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02661828920229028187noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8627230872170480692.post-28910400960581377922011-05-22T20:02:00.000-05:002011-05-22T20:02:00.891-05:00Empty Nest is getting closer!!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj05kHcvR5pFNrkPlRbV2gI4qvB1SkClhNfss-n6C-c9ri9Xj5wwhxG74BCxCIczx_W-OGAMgx2-rF-6DA7BE6cYwbJx3bgFizbsKJp_pIWu_-Z3w30rojlcv8Ldb0bTRLxbThi2nW6-8U/s1600/IMG_8932d.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj05kHcvR5pFNrkPlRbV2gI4qvB1SkClhNfss-n6C-c9ri9Xj5wwhxG74BCxCIczx_W-OGAMgx2-rF-6DA7BE6cYwbJx3bgFizbsKJp_pIWu_-Z3w30rojlcv8Ldb0bTRLxbThi2nW6-8U/s320/IMG_8932d.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>People keep telling me that Empty Nest isn't that great, but being, at the very least, 7 years away from it, it's looking pretty sweet to me!! :) I can't help it, I just like being with my husband!! Empty Nest looks incredibly inviting to me....<br />
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But on to the reason Empty Nest is getting closer. Our second oldest, Camry, graduated from high school today. She was one of two top scholars. Her speech was the most unique speech I have ever heard; to the point that I didn't know if it would get approved because it wasn't really even a speech! The principal approved it with no hesitation and she was all set for the graduation ceremony.<br />
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When it came time for her speech, she presented herself so well. Her speech was so totally and completely NOT about HER. I cried all the way through it because I was so proud of my daughter's final act as a high school senior. It was so selfless; the act of a responsible young woman. Other parents were taking pictures during Camry's speech! What a testament to my daughter. :)<br />
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She'll be off to SAGU in Texas in the fall. she and her sister will be roomies. Camry's looking forward to her new journey and all the excitement it will bring. Me? It'll be weird not have any girls but me in the house, but I've no doubt I'll adjust. :)Trudyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02661828920229028187noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8627230872170480692.post-21304066813312420182010-10-14T14:03:00.000-05:002010-10-14T14:03:41.773-05:00Resting...<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">whether I want to or not!</span></i><br />
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It's not exactly what I've had in mind for the last year and half, but it is what it is. :) I just reread some of my posts and realized I'm pretty evasive when it come to giving info about myself...it's so much easier to talk about other people! 8-/<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #38761d;">So enough about everyone else, let's talk about me for a while!</span></i></span><br />
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It started a year ago last June, maybe July. Patrick (my husband) and I knew change was on the horizon so we calmly waited for it to arrive. An announcement was made that <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">rocked</span> my world, someone I knew was retiring and her position was going to need to be filled. Just to end any drama for you here, I didn't fill that position! But that announcement has lead to <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">complete and total upheaval</span> in my life. My nice little structured world went <i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">flying</span></i> out the door and has never returned.<br />
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Over the last year and half, I have found all kinds of "reasons" why God is doing whatever it is that He's doing, but honestly, I still don't have a<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #38761d;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">clue</span></b></span></span> what it is. I know Patrick and I have a unique ministry style and I know God is going to use that style to accomplish some amazing things, but what to do in the mean time? <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><i>I don't know</i></span>, and I am searching every day.<br />
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I've tried to get involved with volunteering for various things, but I find my heart isn't in it, and I find no fulfillment there either. Don't get me wrong, it's not that I don't enjoy volunteering, I do very much. But volunteering in and of itself doesn't bring me fulfillment. I can do it, and I do it well. But it's not my destiny, its just something to fill my time and be a servant to others.<br />
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Basically, I had a meltdown a couple of days ago. Now my kind of meltdown isn't yelling and screaming. It's being very quiet and shedding some tears (not a lot, but some). When I'm having a meltdown, everything, and I do mean everything, is in question. <i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">So while I ponder the complexities of life</span></i>, <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-large;">God</span> works in my spirit. By the time it was time to sleep I had finished my tears, asked all my questions, and peacefully greeted sleep.<br />
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The next day wasn't anything like the day before and God slowly revealed to me that whether I like it or not, I'm going to continue <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">taking a break</span>. Pete Wilson says in his book, Plan B, that while we are waiting on God, we should rest. So rest it is. Rest I am going to do. I will do it efficiently and effectively! And hopefully, while I rest, God will give me some tangible answers for whatever it is he's doing and I will continue to calmly wait for change to come. :)Trudyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02661828920229028187noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8627230872170480692.post-57006036846311358622010-09-21T23:15:00.001-05:002010-09-21T23:15:56.687-05:00I have removed all comments from my blog......the problem here is that I didn't mean too!! OOOPS! Not sure how to fix it at this point...sorry about that. Please rest assured I'm working on it and will return you're ability to comment on my blog ASAP!<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i>I need a personal IT guy.......</i></span>Trudyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02661828920229028187noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8627230872170480692.post-32072950633835285522010-09-12T22:14:00.006-05:002010-10-14T13:22:06.567-05:00A lot has happened...<div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: none;"><span class="Apple-style-span">My nephews leukemia is being treated, and things are going well as far as I can see. He seems to be in good spirits and dealing with the ins and outs of being a cancer patient. The past week has been a test for his family in that they have had to endure a 10 day hospital stay. (after his most recent treatment the chemo levels in his blood wouldn't go down) Trust me when I say your prayers have not went unheard. I believe with everything in me that God is absolutely doing a work in my nephew. It may not be an instant healing, but it matters not to me, as long as God's plan is being perfectly played out! :</span><span class="Apple-style-span">)</span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: none;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><br />
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</div><div>As far as my personal life goes, our oldest daughter Sierra is now attending Southwestern Assemblies of God University (SAGU). We took her down the last weekend of August. She and I cried and boo-hooed when it was time to leave, but she is doing well and adjusting to her new life. I am so very proud of her. Classes are good and she likes her new Coach. She says he stays positive and will be a good role model for her. I'm also thankful for that! :-)</div><div><br />
</div><div>Camry's latest and greatest moment is that she has been chosen for football homecoming queen candidate. She is, of course, thrilled, nothing could have made her happier. The other candidate is her best friend, so they are thrilled for each other and enjoying every minute of the excitement. Homecoming is October 1st. The dress is purchased, shoes and jewelry taken care of. The only thing left is make up and hair on homecoming day. I've no doubt we'll be having lots of fun that day!!</div><div><br />
</div><div>Camry is also playing softball for the first time since 7th grade when she slid into 3rd and broke her ankle. She did make the varsity team, but is not the top player (which is okay!). She is learning to overcome her fear of sliding and she is working hard to gain back the skills she lost over the last four years. She only has a few weeks left, but she's working hard, and putting her best forward and I'm proud of her for that. Good job Cam!</div><div><br />
</div><div>Logan is getting ready for his first football game of the season tomorrow. He's playing center this year and seems to be excited about it. He worked hard over the summer and it has paid off for him. He learned the value of consistency and hard work this summer. Couldn't have asked for more from a 13 year old!!</div><div><br />
</div><div>Spencer has arrived in 5th grade and is doing well. Spencer's world doesn't involve athletics. He has ZERO interest in any kind of sport (although he does play in the churches fantasy football league). He has taken up drums in band this year and seems to be enjoying that.</div><div><br />
</div><div>Patrick and I are good. Just working away, staying busy with life, and enjoying all of it. =) We are so blessed to be a pastors of an amazing church and parents of great children.</div><div><br />
</div></div>Trudyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02661828920229028187noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8627230872170480692.post-22647863715876475442010-06-28T11:11:00.002-05:002010-09-21T23:19:33.320-05:00LeukemiaFriday my 10 year old nephew was diagnosed with ALL type T cell. (I think I wrote it correctly). Friday was stressful waiting for the diagnosis, the weekend has been surreal (as my brother put it).<br />
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This just isn't the kind if thing that's supposed to happen to people you know much less your own family. This is the kind of thing you see on TV happening to strangers.<br />
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I cried Friday and Saturday with just a single thought. But today is getting a little better, I didn't get teary eyed until I started texting my brother about the details of Garrett's procedures today.<br />
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Today they are checking the bone marrow, doing a spinal tap and putting in the injection port for future chemo, transfusions, etc. Assuming all goes as the drs suspected, they will start chemo today.<br />
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I just can't believe this...I just don't want to believe this... :-(<br />
<div class="blogium-promo"><small>Posted from <a href="http://totocaster.com/blogium/">Blogium</a> for iPhone</small></div>Trudyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02661828920229028187noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8627230872170480692.post-44943699635263149572010-06-17T00:17:00.003-05:002010-09-21T23:19:51.122-05:00Camry's getting new batteries!We'll be just two months short of making 6 years. That's how long her battery lasted. So assuming she lives to be 85, Camry will have had 12 pacemakers by then!! (How much you wanna bet they figure out have to have even longer lasting batteries by then?)<br />
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</div><div>Anyway, we just saw here heart doctor on Tuesday and the decision has been made to go ahead with the replacement "generator". She is fine, still has no restrictions, she's even playing softball for the first time since 7th grade when she broke her ankle. The leads to her heart are working well and everything else is looking good, just a matter of when the juice will actually run out. Guesstimates are another 60 days. So we decided to have it done this summer with the doctors approval of course.</div><div><br />
</div><div>If you think of Camry on July 29th we would appreciate the prayers. We are to arrive at 8:30 and the procedure will begin around 10:45. The original placement only took an hour and a half, so I'm thinking this time it shouldn't take more than 30-45 minutes since they're just switching out the generator.</div><div><br />
</div><div>God has been so very good to us. I never take technology for granted; without it Camry would unlikely even be living today. Thank you God for giving the doctors the wisdom they needed to repair Camry's heart. Thank you for watching over her all these years. Thank you for keeping your hand on her every day. Now and in the future. Your such a GREAT God. :-)</div>Trudyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02661828920229028187noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8627230872170480692.post-22688751996645795482010-05-13T08:14:00.002-05:002010-05-13T08:19:33.140-05:00The End is Near....It's my first high school graduation. Well, not for me personally, but the first of my children. My interpretation? I'm one step closer to empty nest!!!<div><br /></div><div>Okay, so I know that's probably a little warped, but I admit it, I like my husband and I like to spend time with him. Call me crazy but I'm looking forward to it! :)</div><div><br /></div><div>But back to my children.... Sierra will graduate in just a few short days, and then in just a few short weeks she'll be headed of to college which is what will seem like forever away from us. I get teary eyed just thinking about it. I've no doubt she'll be fine and we'll all adjust, just like we did she arrived almost 18 years ago. Life changed, but it was no big, you just made the adjustment and kept moving. That is what we will do here. I will miss her, but I will enjoy this new era with my kids. It will be exciting!!</div>Trudyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02661828920229028187noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8627230872170480692.post-62692483672169984862010-04-15T10:29:00.002-05:002010-04-15T12:11:44.521-05:00A Little AngrySo I have this problem with our school...<div><br /></div><div>but before I rant let me say what a good school system we have. Great coaches, great admins, and for the most part great teachers. None of them perfect, but all of them putting forth their best effort. I am fully one hundred percent behind our school. In my opinion, you can't do much better than Welch Public Schools.</div><div><br /></div><div>With that said.... I am angry right now about parents who are schmucks. They are making my children's lives miserable. Here the problem, you have parents who will pull their kids out of school for fishing, shopping, lie about Dr's appointments, say their kids are too sick to compete in track but well enough to compete in cheer tryouts, etc. In an effort to make things fair the school has implemented policy attempting to avoid such pitfalls and require students to be in attendance at games and practices. Now I completely understand requiring kids to be at practices and games. I fully support that policy and have required it of my own children. If your going to be a part of the team then as a player you get the good with the bad. That's just the way it is.</div><div><br /></div><div>Here's my issue, on more than one occasion, we have had a family event that has required our children to miss practices or events and my kids have been punished for it. It angers me that my children are punished for choices out of their control. I'm perfectly fine with consequences for your own choices, but it really stinks to have consequences for someone else's choices.</div><div><br /></div><div>I have suggested that it is a reasonable request to have the school review their policy and try to implement something for parents who are cooperating and who are abiding by the rules, but have a legitimate family conflict. I did offer to be a part of the solution and am happy to offer my services. I would really like to see this conflict resolved in some manner that benefits families and students who are doing the right thing!!</div>Trudyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02661828920229028187noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8627230872170480692.post-6370283114188619212010-03-22T21:59:00.002-05:002010-03-22T22:16:29.368-05:00Spring is here!!!Yea!! Spring is here. You'll never know just how happy I am that Spring has arrived. Of course that didn't mean the end of the snow since we got somewhere between 8-12" last Saturday and Sunday, but it does mean the snow is coming to an end.<div><br /></div><div>Until this winter I hadn't realized how much I dislike snow! Oh, don't get me wrong, snow is a beautiful and marvelous wonder God has graced our life with...I just happen to prefer it small doses! This past winter held about four weeks of constant snow on the ground and admittedly it was ticking me off. We humans are so funny like that. I remember needing to give myself a serious lecture about my attitude. Imagine losing your happiness over a few weeks of snow. That was me. Griping and complaining about the wet, the cold, the rant...rant...rant. Hmmm, I remember a certain group of people who constantly griped and complained and they ended up walking a few extra years in the wilderness. Personally, I'm not focused on all that extracurricular stuff so I decided to change my 'tude lest I end up spending some extra time focused on my own walking skills!!</div><div><br /></div><div>Speaking of walking skills...my focus on better health has not changed. But I am reluctant to report there has been little change. The last 6 months have been difficult for me mentally. I literally gave up for about four of those six. But I have recently started a health and fitness small group, and it's nice to be exercising again consistently. I am pleased that I missed it!!</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Trudyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02661828920229028187noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8627230872170480692.post-33213077393846265012010-01-09T12:33:00.002-06:002010-01-09T12:53:15.836-06:00Finally back!I'm so excited. I finally have my desktop back. I am still without Microsoft office, but being able to get online outside of using my iPhone is a wonderful thing. I did adapt to only having an iPhone, but a desktop is a wonderful luxury!!!<div><br /></div><div>Much has happened while I've been gone. :) Sierra has signed her letter of intent with SAGU (Southwestern Assemblies of God University). Sometimes I still can't believe I have a daughter that will be playing college basketball! It seems like something that happens to people you know or read about in the paper. Now my daughter is the one they're reading about!! It's a little weird. :0)</div><div><br /></div><div>Camry's modeling is somewhat on hold simply because it's the down time for the industry. She is supposed to be doing a job the end of Jan, first of Feb. We're looking forward to that and to getting back on track!</div><div><br /></div><div>More recently we had a blizzard in <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">OKLAHOMA</span> Christmas Eve. <b> How wrong is that?</b> We got a foot of snow that night, then a few days later we got another 4 inches. <b><i> </i></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Honestly, I'm starting to get bitter!!</i></span> You should seriously pray for me.... (just kidding)</div><div><br /></div><div>I'm looking forward to 2010 and expecting lots of change! It's my opinion if you're not changing, you must be dead!! :-0</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Trudyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02661828920229028187noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8627230872170480692.post-70430098880842522122009-12-19T23:30:00.001-06:002009-12-19T23:30:55.957-06:00Suprise!Today we had a pleasant suprise. I popped in at Camrys modeling agency to drop off headshots and comp cards and coincidentally a model by the name of Miles Miller happen to be there too! The end result was Camry got about 45 mins of one on one time with Miles.<br><br>Miles trained at the same place Camry did and has been in the industry for about 2 years (I think). He has done some cool jobs including british GQ. Miles was VERY genorous in allowing us some personal time with him. Camry got the opportunity to ask really specific questions, and get specific feedback. It was so very beneficial. <br><br>Miles was a picture of kindness and honesty.... Miles if you should ever happen to come across this post, please know how deep my gratitude runs. It was beyond kind of you to allow Camry the opportunity to meet with you. Thank you very much. <p class='blogium-promo'><small>Posted from <a href="http://totocaster.com/blogium/">Blogium</a> for iPhone</small></p>Trudyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02661828920229028187noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8627230872170480692.post-342242065162767332009-12-14T10:06:00.001-06:002009-12-14T10:06:36.138-06:00CamryCamry's event in Dallas went really well. She nailed everything she did. On Friday of that week it really hit me hard that my 16 year old was auditioning in front of agents from LA and New York. I spent some time thanking God for the opportunity he gave Camry and for his grace toward us.<br><br>The sad news is that we didn't come home with a contract (which is what our goal was) but it's not to say we won't get one, it just didn't happen while we were in Dallas. <br><br>So for now we will continue in our local market and continue to make contacts in the larger markets of Dallas and maybe Kansas City. It will give Camry time to graduate, and by the time she turns 18 she'll be well prepared.<br><br> <p class='blogium-promo'><small>Posted from <a href="http://totocaster.com/blogium/">Blogium</a> for iPhone</small></p>Trudyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02661828920229028187noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8627230872170480692.post-55831551314745261522009-12-13T21:39:00.001-06:002009-12-13T21:39:21.189-06:00FinallyMy oldest daughter accidently transferred a virus on my computer from her flash drive. :( But I found an app for my iPhone to be able to blog. So this is my attempt to see if it works!<p class='blogium-promo'><small>Posted from <a href="http://totocaster.com/blogium/">Blogium</a> for iPhone</small></p>Trudyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02661828920229028187noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8627230872170480692.post-84759153567615442772009-11-09T07:53:00.005-06:002009-11-09T08:37:49.901-06:00One down!!Sierra's tryout is over. We arrived on Thursday afternoon without incident with plenty of time to acclimate.<br /><div><div></div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 200px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 150px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5402106694766525906" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi98S7SYWxIj2aXLXt34GwvX2ipLhzimnm0IpAzHoV23wRBRNlh4c_VN8jrnEnEeiIMi8RCRtQN7b0lEj2ZnWDfNxFIwTiptCBFxVR1aD0gyZ2KkvKEfNescoIBHMx3mH-TSG8VtPy-1uU/s200/Nov+2009+003.jpg" /><br /><div>She was super nervous, not sure if the coach could tell, but Mom and Dad sure knew it!! She shot a few hoops for warm-up and did great. One shot after the other, <em>swish, swish, swish</em>. She was amazing!! The coach called for everyone to come together. <span style="font-size:85%;"><em>I forgot we were at a Christian college.</em></span> They started with prayer, then moved into practice....</div><br /><div></div><br /><div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 200px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 125px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5402105584190030482" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxqjHDz3y6kL4cKTRowUXrObtPIsFupZsrYF8Cq5hcPjh3cL1gwzlk8ja9WsjZV2hD8lwn2fj4ZdX4U7V0LVmbnX3ZPARu8Z0OFYuLDXpiHnkRJXMpX9d1lwu2BQ0wM1B9KROMEsFgVKE/s200/Nov+2009+001.jpg" /></div>They worked out hard for an hour and a half. The main concern was that Sierra wouldn't be able to keep up. They are a run 'n gun kind of team and Sierra isn't the fastest girl on the planet, but she did well. She did get tired toward the end, but so did the one other high school girl that was at the tryout as well. After practice, Coach ask us to meet with him the next day.</div><br /><div></div><div>Then Sierra was off to enjoy the other activities scheduled for campus days, and Patrick and I left her to enjoy college life for a night!!</div><br /><div></div><div>For me, the next day couldn't come quick enough. I wasn't antsy, but I was ready to get the whole thing over with. We ended up having to wait until after lunch to be able to meet with the coach, but it did finally happen. The end result was that not only did she make the team, but they also offered her a scholorship!! I was elated. It was all I could do to keep my tears back, but I did succeed!! I guess it's not official, official until they call her tomorrow night to find out what her answer is, but in Sierra's mind it's concrete. She'll be wearing purple and gold next year, playing for the Southwestern Assemblies of God, (better known as SAGU), Lions.</div><div> </div><div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 370px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 117px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5402109994083396770" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxmZSDyh6p47fBcMU3biWzaLf0AWNSjPoe1IdfeGeZ_kpJioexuIvpSTRmT5XlThW4voaAcgbvSzeGMM-KLa1_iiSUzMDf757mTMv8DHOheAD1gBAysOiDKwX_OrNxyYRvobn1RLnXn6I/s200/basketballheader1%5B1%5D.jpg" /></div><br /><div></div><div>We are so very proud of her, she worked hard to increase her skills and speed and as a result she has earned a spot on the team. </div><br /><div><span style="font-size:180%;"></span></div><br /><div align="center"><span style="font-family:verdana;"><span style="font-size:180%;color:#6600cc;"><em><strong>Way to go C!</strong></em></span><br /></span><br /></div><br /><div></div>Trudyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02661828920229028187noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8627230872170480692.post-77181591965291329652009-11-02T07:57:00.002-06:002009-11-02T08:03:05.959-06:00November is finally here!!Well, this is it. This is the month that my life has been revolving around for several months. We have worked hard, planned, practiced, and all kinds of wonderful things to make sure we were ready, and now November is here. Sierra's fate with the SAGU basketball team will be decided in a few days. Camry's future has the opportunity for huge change in just two short weeks. And change for me personally will become very concrete as the month plays out. I'm still not sure what God has in mind, but I'm willing to walk whatever path he put in front in of me!! Change isn't always fun, but it is so very necessary! :)Trudyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02661828920229028187noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8627230872170480692.post-51944403494729755612009-10-19T08:43:00.002-05:002009-10-19T09:28:51.227-05:00LIFEWow...life is taking me on a ride! And, let me tell you, it's full speed, not just a little jaunt in the park!!<br /><br />Camry's modeling is going well. We are preparing for the expo in Dallas, lots of details and extra classes to attend. It's consuming a big chunk of the schedule, but I'm okay with that. It's just a moment in life. :)<br /><br />Our oldest daughter Sierra is preparing for her basketball tryout in 2 weeks. We're looking forward to some exciting times there!!<br /><br />Logan, our oldest son is deep into football season with only 2 weeks left. He's having a great season. Starting as a 7th grader on a 7th 7 8th grade team. We're very proud of him. :)<br /><br />And the youngest, Spencer, is enjoying cub scouts for the first time. I am glad he has something to focus on that is worthwhile.<br /><br />As you can see I am running everywhere tending to my children, but it's worth every moment I'm investing. I know this is just a season and all seasons come to an end. I must admit "Empty Nest" is looking like a whole bunch of fun right now!!! But, let's not count our chickens before they hatch!!! :)Trudyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02661828920229028187noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8627230872170480692.post-29979413115741632012009-09-04T08:54:00.003-05:002009-09-04T09:00:16.431-05:00goal met!I've been pretty hesitant to post this, but today I finally decided it's really true. I have really done it!! I have officially hit 300 pounds. which mean over the last 6 months I have lost 17 pounds. Not the significant loss I was looking for, but it's absolutely better than gaining!!!!<br /><br />I've been toying with 300 for 2 weeks now, but I wouldn't post about it because I was sure it was too good to be true!! <span style="font-size:85%;"> <em>(Oh ye, of VERY little faith!!)</em></span> But after 2 weeks, it must be true. I'm now anxious to get below 300 and stay there; which is my next short term goal.<br /><br />Looking forward to positive results. Ready. Set. GO!Trudyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02661828920229028187noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8627230872170480692.post-49139491787682430392009-09-02T12:06:00.003-05:002009-09-02T12:17:24.363-05:00Camry's ModelingWe've had some exciting news about Camry! She attended a closed audition last week and got the call back. <span style="font-size:130%;color:#009900;">Very exciting!!</span> this November she will be attending an exclusive expo in Dallas where she will get to audition in front of national companies. This is a really<span style="font-size:180%;color:#993399;"> BIG</span> deal. If you think of Camry over the next few months please pray for her. Camry has decided that she would like to have a career in the fashion/entertainment industry and this expo could be a defining moment for her!<br /><div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitsQvjp0Q9qosWebBKmZ2t8rGyEd_N1hVYXF75pKJwLKgXHQpctZAuWR-aJEUXdww4zAgfDp6OtSjI4ItZCuBXFiBF48vxj_1Yvq5HS5xedkvC0V_rB-9IRhf9IfB8nRnfbyM9UcQW0DI/s1600-h/IMG_7871.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 134px; HEIGHT: 200px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5376919638398295698" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitsQvjp0Q9qosWebBKmZ2t8rGyEd_N1hVYXF75pKJwLKgXHQpctZAuWR-aJEUXdww4zAgfDp6OtSjI4ItZCuBXFiBF48vxj_1Yvq5HS5xedkvC0V_rB-9IRhf9IfB8nRnfbyM9UcQW0DI/s200/IMG_7871.jpg" /></a> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMOp2CPB9xCM9HmlmD3nq4Smn8aueNw7epXGc5ibULv_3Pbs0i1sD1LTwCJHfXWRYVuS7s9vWWH5gWKSxRoNHWD7D0pQpy7c7oP04BoIQ5FOPCyg7WyOcUTfL7wgXUxxvPfCBnWMMwC0s/s1600-h/IMG_8437.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 200px; HEIGHT: 134px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5376920343536965314" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMOp2CPB9xCM9HmlmD3nq4Smn8aueNw7epXGc5ibULv_3Pbs0i1sD1LTwCJHfXWRYVuS7s9vWWH5gWKSxRoNHWD7D0pQpy7c7oP04BoIQ5FOPCyg7WyOcUTfL7wgXUxxvPfCBnWMMwC0s/s200/IMG_8437.jpg" /></a><br /></div><br /><div></div><br /><div><br /><br /></div><br /><div></div>Trudyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02661828920229028187noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8627230872170480692.post-25354271062358734482009-08-21T20:17:00.002-05:002009-08-21T20:26:53.549-05:00The iron thingWell, I'm thinking the iron transfusion worked. It has been just over a week since I got the transfusion and the last three days have been unbelievable. I am usually very "nap" oriented. Even though I may not always take naps, I always feel like I need them. Anywhere from 15-20 mins up to 2 1/2-3 hours. The last three days I have been going on 6 1\2 to 7 hours of sleep per night with no naps during the day. Admittedly, this evening, I'm pretty tired, but <span style="font-size:180%;color:#ff0000;">wow</span> I can't believe the energy I have. It actually reminds me of when I was taking Concerta for my ADD issues. (Commonly known as speed!) <span style="color:#000000;"> <span style="font-size:85%;"><em>I didn't take it very long, I just couldn't get over the fact that I was taking narcotics, it just bothered me!!</em></span></span> But I really liked the benefit of being wound. I could really get a lot done and had tons of energy. After this week, I'm convinced I've found a much better drug....<br /><br /><span style="font-size:180%;">It's called IRON!! :-)</span><br /><span style="font-size:180%;"></span>Trudyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02661828920229028187noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8627230872170480692.post-85113083535954837592009-08-13T20:54:00.002-05:002009-08-13T21:03:46.293-05:00Iron TransfusionBeen having issues with my iron levels for over a year a now. Finally seen a Hematologist and he decided that since I obviously can't absorb iron through my digestive tract, we would completely bypass that system and go direct into the blood stream. So yesterday, I spent about 5 hours hooked up to an IV (thank goodness for pediatric needles!!) getting iron pumped into me. It was not a big deal, just time consuming. I do have a bit of a tan from getting the iron. They told me since the iron is bronze in color that my skin would turn a little bronze from the super saturated levels for about a week while my body got it all stored where it belongs.<br /><br />So here we are at the end of the summer and I have a really cool tan that I didn't have to sit in the sun for. BONUS!!<br /><br />I am thrilled to say good-bye to anemia, and I am looking forward to days that are not so tired and sleepy!!! Thank God for iron transfusions. :)Trudyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02661828920229028187noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8627230872170480692.post-16846165825801295492009-08-10T07:41:00.002-05:002009-08-10T07:49:07.451-05:00Sabbatical has ended...Today is my first day back to the "real" world. Admittedly I am not ready. I have truly enjoyed being drama free, but life must go on. I cannot expect to "hole up" and still do effective ministry. <em><span style="font-size:78%;">If only it were that simple. </span></em> So off I go again, life is rushing toward me and I intend to hit it running full speed.<br /><br />God has spoke to me often the last three weeks (or, it's more likely I have listened often!) but regardless, communication has happened. My life is going to change dramatically over the upcoming weeks. I am having a hard time wrapping my mind around what my new schedule is going to look like, but rather than trying to figure it out, I am just going to start walking, one step at time, embracing every moment.<br /><br /><span style="font-size:180%;color:#003300;"><em><strong>Bring on the CHANGE!!!</strong></em></span>Trudyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02661828920229028187noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8627230872170480692.post-31236166117893217422009-07-31T20:52:00.002-05:002009-07-31T20:58:35.311-05:00off to General Council '09We leave tomorrow for a 2 day trip to Orlando. I'm looking forward to it, it will be lots of fun. Everything is ready, we just need the clock to catch up with us and we'll be off!<br /><br />Good times will be happening in Orlando. We will get to see one of the youth compete and we are expecting him to do very well. He's an incredible guitar player. The other youth are participating in an inner city missions outreach for 3 days. And Patrick and I get to go to a leadership conference. We're really looking forward to that.<br /><br />Of course, we are in Orlando, and there will be some down time, it won't be rush, rush, rush for Patrick and I, so maybe a trip to the beach will be in order at some point! And the youth will be going to Sea World for some fun as well.<br /><br />Good times, good times....Trudyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02661828920229028187noreply@blogger.com