I Married a Marine (12 years ago)

In 5 days, New Year's Eve) Joey and I will be married 12 years. We've gone through a lot. We married when he was still in the Marine Corps. Times were tough. Financially and mentally. We had nothing but each other and soon Taylor would enter our lives. We lived in this cracker box house that had 3 rooms in it. Bedroom (mattresses on the floor which we bought at the Salvation Army), a bathroom and a kitchen combo. Very small but that was all we needed. I remember getting so excited when we found this sofa sleeper for $30 on base. Now we could have visitors!!! LOL!

Needless, to say I was so frightened when I became pregnant in North Carolina, 12 hours from home, no friends, no family near, nothing. Now looking back we daily thank Heavenly Father for what we have now but also what we had then. We didn't have many material things, I never had a baby shower, like I had seen everyone at church receive. BUT mom & dad made sure Taylor had plenty of clothes. BUT most importantly we had love, true love.

Living in the military (and they have this quote "Marines Wife, Toughest Job in the Corps." and it WAS!) I even had this sticker on the back window of our old Nissan Stanza that got us through many trips to Tennessee and Ohio visiting family when we could. There were struggles like taking 3 or 4 loads of laundry to the laundry place 7-8 months pregnant all by myself, those we tough but made me stronger.

Although there have been struggles from being apart for long periods of time, I truly found my soul mate. Heavenly Father shined a light on Joey and let me know NOT to let this one go. That is a LONG story.

I can count on one hand the times we have ever shouted at each other. He completes me. Yes, you know me and you know how goofy I am, heck, my whole family is goofy and Joey fell in love with my family. Dad got a son he never had. Who he could talk military with and soon had a new fishing buddy. Joey has completed not only my life but my whole family's life.

So this is a little dedication from my love of him and how proud I am of him. What a wonderful provider, husband and father. And I married a Marine. Talk about feeling safe at night...lol.

Here is a tender moment with him and Switch as a baby sleeping. My tender Marine. I've spent over 13 years with this man and plan to be by his side no matter where life takes us. He's wanting to move us to Ohio where his dad lives and where he can get a better job and I resisted at first because I didn't want to miss my family and friends but he has been in McMinnville since the day he came home from the Marines so I guess I will follow him where ever he takes me because I trust his judgement, and we have prayed about it (always remember to pray) and I know he would never do anything that would hurt the family. He knows we are a strong family and we have been through a lot of growing up together and we know there are yet more struggles that are bound to come our way but together, the three of us can do anything possible with the love we have built and have for each other. I love you dear.

A Letter From A Friend

I saw this year's ago and have kept in one of my many folders of letter and messages that inspire me and I bring them out when I feel it's time to share them. Many of you have read this before but I hope it inspires you in some way.

A LETTER FROM A FRIEND

I just had to write to tell you how much I love you and care for you. Yesterday, I saw you walking and laughing with your friends; I hoped that soon you'd want Me to walk along with you, too.

So, I painted you a sunset to close your day and whispered a cool breeze to refresh you. I waited and you never called. I just kept on loving you.

As I watched you fall asleep last night, I wanted so much to touch you. I spilled moonlight onto your face- trickling down your cheeks as so many tears have. You didn't even think of me; I wanted so much to comfort you.

The next day I exploded a brilliant sunrise into a glorious morning for you. But you woke up late and rushed off to work- you didn't even notice. My sky became cloudy and My tears were the rain.

I love you. Oh, if you'd only listen. I really love you. I try to say it in the quiet of the green meadow and in the blue sky.

The wind whispers My love throughout the treetops and spills it into the vibrant colors of the flowers. I shout it to you in the thunder of the great waterfalls and compose love songs for bands to sing for you.

I warm you with the clothing of My sunshine and perfume the air with nature's sweet scent. My love for you is deeper than the ocean and greater than any need in your heart. If you'd only realize how I care. I died just for you.

My Dad sends His love. I want you to meet Him. He cares, too. Fathers are just that way. So please call Me soon. No matter how long it takes, I'll wait because I love you.

Your Friend,
Jesus

Putting On Weight This Time of Year

YOU WILL HAVE TO CLICK ON THE PICTURE TO SEE WHAT HAPPENS!

Cell Phones vs. The Bible

I wonder what would happen if we treated our Bible like we treat our cell phone?

What if we carried it around in our purses or pockets?
What if we flipped through it several time a day?
What if we turned back to go get it if we forgot it?
What if we used it to receive messages from the text?
What if we treated it like we couldn't live without it?
What if we gave it to Kids as gifts?
What if we used it when we traveled?
What if we used it in case of emergency?

This is something to make you go ... hmm, where is my Bible?

Oh, and one more thing. Unlike our cell phone, we don't have to worry about our Bible being disconnected because Jesus already paid the bill.

But most important of all...you'll never have to ask Him 'can you hear me now?'

Makes you stop and think 'where are my priorities?

And no dropped calls!

REMEMBER THIS AT CHRISTMAS TIME

According to the Alaska Department of Fish and Game, while both male and female reindeer grow antlers in the summer each year, male reindeer drop their antlers at the beginning of winter, usually late November to mid-December. Female reindeer retain their antlers till after they give birth in the spring. Therefore, according to EVERY historical rendition depicting Santa's reindeer, EVERY single one of them, from Rudolph to Blitzen, had to be a girl. We should've known... ONLY women would be able to drag a fat- man in a red velvet suit all around the world in one night and not get lost.

The Tree Is Up!

WITH THE LIGHT ON!

WITH THE LIGHTS OFF!

We actually finally got the tree up this year minus our tree I always put up in honor and in memory of our soldiers who have sacrificed their lives either those who passed away or for those who are not at home with their families this year, although I do have a picture of it from last year.

This is the tree that is in Honor and in Memory of all our past and present soldiers, the Angel are for the Fallen.

Being born into a military family and marrying a Marine, I have a very special relationship in my heart for the families and soldiers that serve our Nation and they are remembered daily by having an Americana themed Den.

A Baby's Hug

This was sent to me today from a dear freind Jerry, who sends me daily laughs through e-mails, this one I felt so moved by. Not only did I get goose bumps but tears flowed. I hope you experience the same feelings as I did as you read this.

We were the only family with children in the restaurant. I sat Erik in a high chair and noticed everyone was quietly sitting and talking. Suddenly, Erik squealed out with glee and said, 'Hi.' He pounded his fat baby hands on the high chair tray. His eyes were crinkled in laughter and his mouth was bared in a toothless grin, as he wriggled and giggled with merriment.

I looked around and saw the source of his merriment. It was a man whose pants were baggy with a zipper at half-mast and his toes poked out of would-be shoes. His shirt was dirty and his hair was uncombed and unwashed. His whiskers were too short to be called a beard and his nose was so varicose it looked like a road map.

We were too far from him to smell, but I was sure he smelled.. His hands waved and flapped on loose wrists. 'Hi there, baby; hi there, big boy. I see ya, buster,' the man said to Erik.

My husband and I exchanged looks, 'What do we do?'

Erik continued to laugh and answer, 'Hi.'

Everyone in the restaurant noticed and looked at us and then at the man. The old geezer was creating a nuisance with my beautiful baby. Our meal came and the man began shouting from across the room, 'Do ya patty cake? Do you know peek-a-boo? Hey, look, he knows peek- a-boo.'

Nobody thought the old man was cute. He was obviously drunk..

My husband and I were embarrassed. We ate in silence; all except for Erik, who was running through his repertoire for the ad miring skid-row bum, who in turn, reciprocated with his cute comments.

We finally got through the meal and headed for the door. My husband went to pay the check and told me to meet him in the parking lot. The old man sat poised between me and the door. 'Lord, just let me out of here before he speaks to me or Erik,' I prayed. As I drew closer to the man, I turned my back trying to sidestep him and avoid any air he might be breathing. As I did, Erik leaned over my arm, reaching with both arms in a baby's 'pick-me-up' position. Before I could stop him, Erik had propelled himself from my arms to the man.

Suddenly a very old smelly man and a very young baby consummated their love and kinship. Erik in an act of total trust, love, and submission laid his tiny head upon the man's ragged shoulder. The man's eyes closed, and I saw tears hover beneath his lashes. His aged hands full of grime, pain, and hard labor, cradled my baby's bottom and stroked his back. No two beings have ever loved so deeply for so short a time.

I stood awestruck. The old man rocked and cradled Erik in his arms and his eyes opened and set squarely on mine. He said in a firm commanding voice, 'You take care of this baby.'

Somehow I managed, 'I will,' from a throat that contained a stone.

He pried Erik from his chest, lovingly and longingly, as though he were in pain. I received my baby, and the man said, 'God bless you, ma'am, you've given me my Christmas gift.'

I said nothing more than a muttered thanks. With Erik in my arms, I ran for the car. My husband was wondering why I was crying and holding Erik so tightly, and why I was saying, 'My God, my God, forgive me.'

I had just witnessed Christ's love shown through the innocence of a tiny child who saw no sin, who made no judgment; a child who saw a soul, and a mother who saw a suit of clothes. I was a Christian who was blind, holding a child who was not. I felt it was God asking, 'Are you willing to share your son for a moment?' when He shared His for all eternity. How did God feel when he put his baby in our arms 2000 years ago.

The ragged old man, unwittingly, had reminded me, 'To enter the Kingdom of God , we must become as little children.'

If this has blessed you, please bless others by sending it on. Sometimes, it takes a child to remind us of what is really important. We must always remember who we are, where we came from and, most importantly, how we feel about others. The clothes on your back or the car that you drive or the house that you live in does not define you at all; it is how you treat your fellow man that identifies who you are.

This one is a keeper.

'It is better to be liked for the true you, than to be loved for who people think you are........'

A Sad Truth To A Night Before Christmas

T' was the night before Christmas
and all through the town
Not a sign of Baby Jesus
was anywhere to be found.

The people were all busy
with Christmas time chores
Like decorating, and baking,
and shopping in stores.

No one sang "Away in a manger,
no crib for a bed".
Instead, they sang of Santa
dressed-up in bright red.

Mama watched Martha Stewart,
Papa drank beer from a tap.
As hour upon hour
the presents they'd wrap

When what from the TV
did they suddenly hear?
'Cept an ad.. which told
of a big sale at Sears.

So away to the mall
they all flew like a flash
Buying things on credit
and others with cash!

And, as they made their way home
From their trip to the mall,
Did they think about Jesus?
Oh, no... not at all.

Their lives were so busy
with their Christmas time things
No time to remember
Christ Jesus, the King.

There were presents to wrap
and cookies to bake.
How could they stop and remember
who died for their sake?

To pray to the Savior
they had no time to stop.
Because they needed more time
to "Shop till they dropped!"

On Wal-mart! On K-mart!
On Target! On Penney's!
On Hallmark! On Zales!
A quick lunch at Denny's

From the big stores downtown
to the stores at the mall
They would dash away, dash away,
and visit them all!

And up on the roof,
there arose such a clatter
As grandpa hung icicle lights
up on his brand new step ladder.

He hung lights that would flash.
He hung lights that would twirl.
Yet, he never once prayed to Jesus...
Light of the World.

Christ's eyes... how they twinkle!
Christ's Spirit... how merry!
Christ's love... how enormous!
All our burdens... He'll carry!

So instead of being busy,
overworked, and uptight
Let's put Christ back in
Christmas and enjoy
some good nights!

Merry Christmas my friends!

"Don't Quit, Keep Playing"

This was sent to me by my wonderful new friend, April, and I wanted to share it with you.

When the house lights dimmed and the concert was about to begin, the mother returned to her seat and discovered that her child was missing.

Suddenly, the curtains parted and spotlights focused on the impressive Steinway on stage.

In horror, the mother saw her little boy sitting at the keyboard, innocently picking out "Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star".

At that moment, the great piano master made his entrance, quickly moved to the piano and whispered in the boy's ear, "Don't quit". "Keep playing".

Then, leaning over, Paderewski reached around to the other side of the child, and he added a running obbligato.

Together, the old master and the young novice transformed what could have been a frightening situation into a wonderfully creative experience.

The audience was so mesmerized that they couldn't recall what else the great master played. Only the classic "Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star".

Perhaps that's the way it is with God. What we can accomplish on our own is hardly noteworthy. We try our best, but the results aren't always graceful flowing music.

However, with the hand of the Master, our life's work can truly be beautiful.

The next time you set out to accomplish great feats, listen carefully. You may hear the voice of the Master, whispering in your ear, "Don't quit". "Keep playing".

May you feel his arms around you and know that his hands are there, helping you turn your feeble attempts into true masterpieces.

Remember, God doesn't seem to call the equipped, rather he equips the 'called'. Life is more accurately measured by the lives you touch than by the things you acquire.

And remember, "Don't quit".

Arguments on Jesus' background (funny)

I got this from Michelle Prater's blog. It's too funny not to share.

There are 3 good arguments that Jesus was Black:
1. He called everyone brother
2. He liked Gospel
3. He didn't get a fair trial

But then there are 3 equally good arguments that Jesus was Jewish:
1. He went into His Father's business
2. He lived at home until he was 33
3. He was sure his Mother was a virgin and his Mother was sure He was God

But then there are 3 equally good arguments that Jesus was Italian:
1. He talked with His hands
2. He had wine with His meals
3. He used olive oil

But then there are 3 equally good arguments that Jesus was a Californian:
1. He never cut His hair
2. He walked around barefoot all the time
3. He started a new religion

But then there are 3 equally good arguments that Jesus was an American Indian:
1. He was at peace with nature
2. He ate a lot of fish
3. He talked about the Great Spirit

But then there are 3 equally good arguments that Jesus was Irish:
1. He never got married.
2. He was always telling stories.
3. He loved green pastures.

But the most compelling evidence of all - that Jesus was a woman:
1. He fed a crowd at a moment's notice when there was virtually no food
2. He kept trying to get a message across to a bunch of men who just didn't get it
3. And even when He was dead, He had to get up because there was still work to do.

Mrs. Jones Class

Miss Jones wanted to start the year off right. She announced to her 5th grade class, "Boys and girls, there are two words I don't allow in my class. One is gross and the other is cool."

From the back of the room Little Johnny called out, "So, what are the words?"

(Don't feel bad if you have to read this twice to get it, I had to)

I Am Thankful Because...

I AM THANKFUL: FOR THE WIFE WHO SAYS IT'S HOT DOGS TONIGHT, BECAUSE SHE IS HOME WITH ME, AND NOT OUT WITH SOMEONE ELSE.

FOR THE HUSBAND WHO IS ON THE SOFA BEING A COUCH POTATO, BECAUSE HE IS HOME WITH ME AND NOT OUT AT THE BARS.

FOR THE TEENAGER WHO IS COMPLAINING ABOUT DOING DISHES BECAUSE IT MEANS SHE IS AT HOME, NOT ON THE STREETS.

FOR THE TAXES I PAY BECAUSE IT MEANS I AM EMPLOYED .

FOR THE MESS TO CLEAN AFTER A DINNER BECAUSE IT MEANS I HAVE BEEN SURROUNDED BY FRIENDS.

FOR THE CLOTHES THAT FIT A LITTLE TOO SNUG BECAUSE IT MEANS I HAVE ENOUGH TO EAT.

FOR MY SHADOW THAT WATCHES ME WORK BECAUSE IT MEANS I AM OUT IN THE SUNSHINE.

FOR A LAWN THAT NEEDS MOWING, WINDOWS THAT NEED CLEANING, AND GUTTERS THAT NEED FIXING BECAUSE IT MEANS I HAVE A HOME.

FOR ALL THE COMPLAINING I HEAR ABOUT THE GOVERNMENT BECAUSE IT MEANS WE HAVE FREEDOM OF SPEECH.

FOR THE PARKING SPOT I FIND AT THE FAR END OF THE PARKING LOT BECAUSE IT MEANS I AM CAPABLE OF WALKING AND I HAVE BEEN BLESSED WITH TRANSPORTATION.

FOR MY HUGE HEATING BILL BECAUSE IT MEANS I AM WARM.

FOR THE LADY BEHIND ME IN CHURCH WHO SINGS OFF KEY BECAUSE IT MEANS I CAN HEAR.

FOR THE PILE OF LAUNDRY AND IRONING BECAUSE IT MEANS I HAVE CLOTHES TO WEAR.

FOR WEARINESS AND ACHING MUSCLES AT THE END OF THE DAY BECAUSE IT MEANS I HAVE BEEN CAPABLE OF WORKING HARD.

FOR THE ALARM THAT GOES OFF IN THE EARLY MORNING HOURS BECAUSE IT MEANS I AM ALIVE.

FOR THE BIBLE BECAUSE IT TELLS ME THAT GOD LOVE US SO MUCH THAT HE GAVE HIS SON JESUS TO DIE FOR OUR SINS!

Taylor's 6th grade picture

First a little bit of my ramblings...

Tay turned 11 this year. She is turning out to be a lot like me. She has been just like me since the day she was born. Her silliness is definitely just like mine and she loves to laugh just as I do. She was actually a little mini-me up until about a couple of years ago, now she has her own style and is not looking so much like me now. Which I hate.

Why might you ask, well I guess it's all really silly but here is why..

I was adopted from birth to the BEST parents on the face of the earth. I have always known I was adopted and it never has bothered me and I know it is because of how my mother explained it to me. She always told me that she couldn't have me so God made another way for her to have me. Awesome, huh?

Anyway back to Tay. So when Tay entered my world I finally looked like somebody. I knew God must have known all this time my longing to look like somebody and the soonest chance he had was when I had Tay.

So anyway, I decided to add her 6th grade picture this morning to my blog. We forgot it was picture day unfortunately but it turned out quite good.

Adam's Rib (cute)

At Sunday School they were teaching how God created everything, including human beings. Little Johnny seemed especially intent when they told him how Eve was created out of one of Adam's ribs.

Later in the week his mother noticed him lying down as though he were ill, and she said, 'Johnny, what is the matter?'

Little Johnny responded, 'I have pain in my side. I think I'm going to have a wife.'

Marine Christmas Poem

TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS,
HE LIVED ALL ALONE,
IN A ONE BEDROOM HOUSE MADE OF
PLASTER AND STONE.

I HAD COME DOWN THE CHIMNEY
WITH PRESENTS TO GIVE,
AND TO SEE JUST WHO
IN THIS HOME DID LIVE.

I LOOKED ALL ABOUT,
A STRANGE SIGHT I DID SEE,
NO TINSEL, NO PRESENTS,
NOT EVEN A TREE.

NO STOCKING BY MANTLE,
JUST BOOTS FILLED WITH SAND,
ON THE WALL HUNG PICTURES
OF FAR DISTANT LANDS.

WITH MEDALS AND BADGES,
AWARDS OF ALL KINDS,
A SOBER THOUGHT
CAME THROUGH MY MIND.

FOR THIS HOUSE WAS DIFFERENT,
IT WAS DARK AND DREARY,
I FOUND THE HOME OF A SOLDIER,
ONCE I COULD SEE CLEARLY.

THE SOLDIER LAY SLEEPING,
SILENT, ALONE,
CURLED UP ON THE FLOOR
IN THIS ONE BEDROOM HOME.

THE FACE WAS SO GENTLE,
THE ROOM IN SUCH DISORDER,
NOT HOW I PICTURED
A UNITED STATES SOLDIER.

WAS THIS THE HERO
OF WHOM I'D JUST READ?
CURLED UP ON A PONCHO,
THE FLOOR FOR A BED?

I REALIZED THE FAMILIES
THAT I SAW THIS NIGHT,
OWED THEIR LIVES TO THESE SOLDIERS
WHO WERE WILLING TO FIGHT.

SOON ROUND THE WORLD,
THE CHILDREN WOULD PLAY,
AND GROWNUPS WOULD CELEBRATE
A BRIGHT CHRISTMAS DAY.

THEY ALL ENJOYED FREEDOM
EACH MONTH OF THE YEAR,
BECAUSE OF THE SOLDIERS,
LIKE THE ONE LYING HERE.

I COULDN'T HELP WONDER
HOW MANY LAY ALONE,
ON A COLD CHRISTMAS EVE
IN A LAND FAR FROM HOME.

THE VERY THOUGHT
BROUGHT A TEAR TO MY EYE,
I DROPPED TO MY KNEES
AND STARTED TO CRY.

THE SOLDIER AWAKENED
AND I HEARD A ROUGH VOICE,
'SANTA DON'T CRY,
THIS LIFE IS MY CHOICE;

I FIGHT FOR FREEDOM,
I DON'T ASK FOR MORE,
MY LIFE IS MY GOD,
MY! COUNTRY, MY CORPS.'

THE SOLDIER ROLLED OVER
AND DRIFTED TO SLEEP,
I COULDN'T CONTROL IT,
I CONTINUED TO WEEP.

I KEPT WATCH FOR HOURS,
SO SILENT AND STILL
AND WE BOTH SHIVERED
FROM THE COLD NIGHT'S CHILL.

I DIDN'T WANT TO LEAVE
ON THAT COLD, DARK, NIGHT,
THIS GUARDIAN OF HONOR
SO WILLING TO FIGHT.

THEN THE SOLDIER ROLLED OVER,
WITH A VOICE SOFT AND PURE,
WHISPERED, 'CARRY ON SANTA,
IT'S CHRISTMAS DAY, ALL IS SECURE.'

ONE LOOK AT MY WATCH,
AND I KNEW HE WAS RIGHT.
'MERRY CHRISTMAS MY FRIEND,!
AND TO ALL A GOOD NIGHT.'

This poem was written by a Marine.

The following is his request. I think it is reasonable.....

PLEASE. Would you do me the kind favor of sending this to as many people as you can? Christmas will be coming soon and some credit is due to our U.S. Service men and Women for our being able to celebrate these festivities. Let's try in this small way to pay a tiny bit of what we owe. Make people stop and think of our heroes, living and dead, who sacrificed themselves for us. Please, do your small part to plant this small seed.

My personal prompting from God to get out of Hell

I recently resigned from a job I had for 5 years. I loved my job as an Administrative Assistant at a local church. I won't expose the name because the congregation was NOT the problem. They are some of the best people I've come to know. I am not a member of this church. No affiliation.

The problem was the pastor. He was day and night every week, sometimes he was nice for weeks at a time. One day he might be in a good mood or come in the next morning and start something with me. It was always the morning, first thing.

Sunday nights I always was anxiously upset wondering what awaited me bright and early each Monday morning. Would it be quiet and a good day or would I be belittled and fussed at for no good reason. And then was the his mood going to shift during the week.

I lived with this mean-streaked, power hungry, ego beyond belief of a pastor for over 3 years and it was really taking it's toll on me. He could turn it off just as quick as a clapper when one of his members entered the front of the church (you can hear down the hall from our offices when someone came in). I seriously feel he was trying to get me to quit. I know, I know, you're thinking a pastor? Well, there are those out there. I mean just look at the fallen ones from TV.

But he and I were in a business relationship and he wasn't trying to get me to be one of his "numbers" sitting a pew on Sunday mornings. He never treated me like he did his congregation and I got use to that, didn't like it but I lived with it. Numbers drove him to be as kind as he could to get his congregation to grow and it has. Sad truth though, they really are just "numbers" to him.

But I had decided even though my husband was loosing hours at work, and even though I knew there were no jobs for me with my back condition as it is, that I could no longer deal with the stress of the situation.

I was suppose to go up for an evaluation back in August. I had been working there for over 4 and half years with no job description. I did was I was asked and told to do. I was never late on any assignment. I even came in on Saturdays if I was sick and needed to get caught up.

After being there a year I knew exactly what my job was and it was all good as far as that went. But then after asking for a job description about 2 years ago(this was to cover myself to show I was doing everything I was suppose to be doing) and possibly they would see that I had at times gone above and beyond my job description at times, I received one this April! Wow 2 years in the making...lol.

In the job description was only one new thing, other than what I had been doing for 4 and a half years, an evaluation, and in this (what I WILL call a binding contract, because it was signed by me and chairman, agreeing on what was in it), it was to be held in August...yet..they put the evaluation off until little over a week into November and I knew after talking to the chairman from their little hiring/firing committee that they were going to keep me until into January and get all their loose ends tied up before probably letting me go.

We are talking annual reports, financial reports, tax exemptions to send out...on and on...Christmas programs, tons of stuff to do in December. Anyway, I had already figured out the head-game that was going on, and I am sure the congregation knew none of this. NOTHING.

So, Joey and I talked and decided that we would never be financially ready for me to go back to school, so why not just DO IT! It's been something I have been kicking myself in the butt for years now. So I set things in motion and I start January 5th at TN Tech. Center here in McMinnville.

I had planned on giving a 2 weeks notice on December 1st and my last day would have been December the 12th. But on the third Monday of November after telling boss man that I would be late for work on December 5th due to personal reasons he went off. I didn't want to tell him why I was to be late. He started raising his voice and telling me that I had to be there.

Sorry, but I do have days when I must do things very important and can't help it. Plus, I only missed 2 days of work in 5 months. Finally after he named off several things, trying to name anything and everything it could be. I just gave in for the sake of him to quit and so I told him that I was in fact going to an orientation for school and wanted to take some computer classes. He asked if I couldn't go after work. I asked him did he think he could call the school up and arrange a special orentation for me.

Obviously being miffed he told me I was to find a replacement to sit and answer the phones, easy, my mom would love to come in and answer the phones while I was there but he wanted me to search harder. So I found a replacement. I thought that was that.

NOPE

All HELL (this is not me cussing, I do NOT cuss) broke out on Tuesday when he came in and started right in on me. Telling me i was contracted to be there 20 hours a week in that chair (my chair...lol). Oh did I mention I was part-time? Yeah. Anyway, it escalated into him yelling, I told him to quit yelling at me, he said he was not yelling, so I asked him to not raise his voice at me, and while he was not "yelling" perhaps it was "raising his voice", he said he was not raising his voice. Must have hearing problems that moment.

Anyway, I've dealt with this kind of attitude for years with him. I've told those I thought should know of this but those who should have cared when I tried to tell them either didn't believe me or didn't care how he treated me. In fact they went to HIM and not the proper channels.

So he decided to throw that up in my face. That I had told them he had harassed me numerous times, which he had. He said he never did any such thing. I gave him one of the times. I pointed as he did to me the day this occurrence happened, and he said and I quote "I have my eyes on you and I am watching you" Don't point your finger at me and say that and think I am not going to get offended. He went into his office and slammed the door, then in 5 seconds he was back in my office this time in my face and smirked, like a 6th grader, "I never pointed at you but you just pointed at ME!"

It didn't even stop there, he went on for 30 minutes, I had not even began to start any work. He told me "You better be looking for another job, because you aren't going to make it." Hmm, really now? He was not the hiring or firing committee. I knew it, he DID want me gone and was working overtime to get me frazzled. Yet, he didn't know that I was leaving in 3 weeks. And going to school FULL-TIME.

In my evaluation I was told that I had a "thankless" job. That the less my name was mentioned the better, I did every single printing that came out of that office, I did all the paperwork for that church and I am to not get notice or thanked. SORRY. Oh, well I never got thanked for any extra things I did for the pastor. Like help him plan a Gatlinburg vacation for his wife or the time I made, designed and printed up 200 business cards for his son from my house, on my computer, using my software. No thanks at all.

But before I went into work Tuesday morning I felt this prompting, a strong one, to type up a letter to resign that had no date on it but a line I could fill in with a date I would resign WITHOUT A 2 WEEKS notice. See, I had already made a letter out to resign for my planned 2 weeks notice a week prior and I carried it around with me eager to turn it in and get the heck out of Dodge.

And you know what he had me so shaken up I was beside myself. I left my office and called the chairman and got his voice mail. I walked back into the church and as I came down the hallway I heard ole boss man talking about me and leaving everything out about him and making things up as he went.

By the way, I was told by chairman, in my evaluation, that boss man never ran to them about me that they asked him. LIES!!!!!!!!!!

I told boss man while he was on the phone to "tell the truth, tell the whole story" and as nonchalantly he said "Can you hear her (pulling the phone away from his face towards the door where I was standing), do see what I am talking about?" all the time smiling at me!

I told him to tell chairman to get over to the church ASAP that I was resigning immediately (I pulled the prompted newly typed letter out of my back pocket and waved it in the air). Then I smiled.

I had already cleared my office out about 2 months prior after having one of those days with boss man thinking I might NOT return then, so all that was left to grab was a mug, a fan, and a wreath I had on the wall.

I waited for chairman to drive up and then I just broke down crying. I explained that I hated leaving this way but I couldn't stay one second longer.

I told him through my heavy tears "They will see the real him, somebody will see it." I must have said it 4 times. Then I apologized that I didn't want to leave like this without telling the congregation goodbye. I made some great friends. Those were some good people being led by a totally different person I had come to know. Although I must add that some WERE seeing what I was seeing already.

There is no telling what has been said about me, I have no clue what they must think. I've received a few Christmas cards but no questions on why I left. Boss man probably made something up or told people I was fired.

It took me about 3 days to calm down from the mental ranting I got from ole boss man, lol, don't have to call him that anymore now.

I'm happier than I have ever been. Financially we ARE strapped but we WILL get by because I WAS suppose to leave that day. My Heavenly Father made sure of it. He prompted me to write that letter which almost made me late for work that morning. I have to giggle at that.

My life looks very bright. And about the 2 weeks notice thing, before chairman got there that morning, GET THIS, my ex-boss man smirked and asked "Don't you want to put in a 2 weeks notice for your resume?" Nope, I thought if I was there for 5 years I must have been doing something right.

Besides I was leaving work to go back to school.

Listen to your heart, listen for that small voice deep within you, it's there for a reason, listen for the promptings that God gives us and we can never go wrong.

One last thing for ex-boss man and/or his 2 side kicks...........
THIS IS MY RIGHT OF FREEDOM OF SPEECH IF YOU READ THIS...but you will probably decide to cut and paste or tamper with it to suit you and who know come after me for slander or something but I don't think you know how to do that, because I'm not there to help you figure anything out anymore. Miss me yet...lol!!!

I NEED TO ...

POST SOME FAMILY PICS, HUH?

I promise soon. All my pics were erased when Joey decided he would revamp my computer, yeah right...lol. Well, he WAS suppose to tell me before doing so, but luckily I have them all over the place on-line & on discs saved. Some one has to remember things like this around here. But God love HIM!!!

Great Site: Send A Soldier Some Cheer

Found a site that knocked my socks off! Being a wife of a Marine who served two deployments, I know first hand how bad our soldiers get seriously bored and lonely. Think of those who don't even have family who write much less send care packages. And there are plenty!

This site is set up to send to just those soldiers. You can customize your packages as well and to them. The two (well three) I thought which we great were the ***female and male personal kits and the ***fun pack. Joey said that playing cards were a treasure on ship to pass the time.

Please take moment and check this site out. Also, think about possibly making this a family affair. One box is as cheap as $7.00.

They have great pics of what you will be sending. And they state that in fact what you see is what they will get unless you add to the extras. Click on the drop down "Extras" button and see how reasonable a pack of cards are. They have everything I could think of.

Also, you are able to personalize a message for free to the soldier you are sending the cheer package too.

Oh how I love Christmas and how good it feels to give to those in need of love and hope and CHEER.

HERE ARE THE CHEER PACKS THERE ARE PICTURES ON THE SITE:

Custom your Cheer Pack $7 Just pick out your Extras and custom build your own cheer pack.

All in One from $14 A bestseller. Assortment of snacks, games and personal care.

Sweet Favorites $16.50-$25 Filled with wonderful sweet candy and gum that will surely brighten a soldier's day. Choose Size Small or Large.

Packful of Chocs $20-$30 A chocolate lover's delight. Choose size Small or Large.

Heavenly Cookies $15-$25 A sure pleaser that reminds a soldier of home. Great with adding extras! Choose Size Small or Large.

Desert Relief $44.50 A must have for the soldier in Hot Climates.

***Fun Pack $39 Fun and games to pass the time. Don't forget our wonderful Extras!

Breakfast Pack $20 Packful of breakfast favorite that's good for anytime of the day!

Heroes Cheer Pack from $250 Show you Care by Donating Big to large numbers of soldiers. Choose Small, Medium, Large, Xlarge.

***Woman Personal Care $35 A girl would really appreciate this out in the field. Check out the Extras too!

***Male Personal Care $35 Your soldier will be greatful to receive this cheerpack with all the necessities for hygiene care.

Energy Pack $22 Give a soldier a boost of energy with this high energy pack. Don't forget to checkout our Extras!

Copyright © 2005 Military Cheer Packs. All Rights Reserved.

Holy E-mail (I just had to, this was too funny)

One day God was looking down at Earth and saw all of the rascally behavior that was going on. So He sent one of his angels to earth to look into it. When he returned, he told God, 'Yes, it is bad on Earth; 95% are misbehaving and only 5% are not.

God thought for a moment and said, 'Maybe I had better send down a second angel to get another opinion.'

So God called another angel and sent him to Earth for a time.

When the angel returned he went to God and said, 'Yes, it's true the Earth is in decline; 95% are misbehaving, but 5% are being good.'

God was not pleased. So He decided to e-mail the 5% that were good because he wanted to encourage them and give them a little something to help them keep going...

Do you know what the e-mail said?

Okay, I was just wondering, because I didn't get one either.

A Doll and A White Rose...thanks April (a must read)

I was walking around in a Target store, when I saw a Cashier hand this little boy some money back. The boy couldn't have been more than 5 or 6 years old. The Cashier said, 'I'm sorry, but you don't have enough money to buy this doll.'Then the little boy turned to the old woman next to him: 'Granny, are you sure I don't have enough money?''

The old lady replied: ''You know that you don't have enough money to buy this doll, my dear.'' Then she asked him to stay there for just 5 minutes while she went to look around. She left quickly.

The little boy was still holding the doll in his hand. Finally, I walked toward him and I asked him who he wished to give this doll to. 'It's the doll that my sister loved most and wanted so much for Christmas. She was sure that Santa Claus would bring it to her.'

I replied to him that maybe Santa Claus would bring it to her after all, and not to worry. But he replied to me sadly. 'No, Santa Claus can't bring it to her where she is now. I have to give the doll to my mommy so that she can give it to my sister when she goes there.'

His eyes were so sad while saying this. 'My Sister has gone to be with God. Daddy says that Mommy is going to see God very soon too, so I thought that she could take the doll with her to give it to my sister.''

My heart nearly stopped. The little boy looked up at me and said: 'I told daddy to tell mommy not to go yet.... I need her to wait until I come back from the mall.' Then he showed me a very nice photo of himself. He was laughing.

He then told me 'I want mommy to take my picture with her so she won't forget me.' 'I love my mommy and I wish she didn't have to leave me, but daddy says that she has to go to be with my little sister.' Then he looked again at the doll with sad eyes, very quietly.

I quickly reached for my wallet and said to the boy. 'Suppose we check again, just in case you do have enough money for the doll!'' 'OK' he said, 'I hope I do have enough.' I added some of my money to his without him seeing and we started to count it. There was enough for the doll and even some spare money.

The little boy said: 'Thank you God for giving me enough money!' Then he looked at me and added, 'I asked last night before I went to sleep for God to make sure I had enough money to buy this doll, so that mommy could give it to my sister. He heard me!''

'I also wanted to have enough money to buy a white rose for my mommy, but I didn't dare to ask God for too much. But He gave me enough to buy the doll and a white rose.''

'My mommy loves white roses.'

A few minutes later, the old lady returned and I left with my basket.

I finished my shopping in a totally different state of mind from when I started.

I couldn't get the little boy out of my mind. Then I remembered a local news paper article two days ago, which mentioned a drunk man in a truck, who hit a car occupied by a young woman and a little girl. The little girl died right away, and the mother was left in a critical state. The family had to decide whether to p ull the plug on the life-sustaining machine, because the young woman would not be able to recover from the coma.

Was this the family of the little boy?

Two days after this encounter with the little boy, I read in the news paper that the young woman had passed away.

I couldn't stop myself as I bought a bunch of white roses and I went to the funeral home where the body of the young woman was for people to see and make last wishes before her burial.

She was there, in her coffin, holding a beautiful white rose in her hand with the photo of the little boy and the doll placed over her chest.

I left the place, teary-eyed, feeling that my life had been changed for ever.. The love that the little boy had for his mother and his sister is still, to this day, hard to imagine.

And in a fraction of a second, a drunk driver had taken all this away from him.

Now you have 2 choices:

1) Send this message to others, or
2) Ignore it as if it never touched your heart.

The quote of the month is by Jay Leno:

'With hurricanes, tornado's, fires out of control, mud slides, flooding, severe thunderstorms tearing up the country from one end to another, and with the threat of bird flu and terrorist attacks, 'Are we sure this is a good time to take God out of the Pledge of Allegiance?'

The value of a man or woman resides in what he or she gives, not in what they are capable of receiving.