Hall's Happenings

Year 2010 Update

2010-10-22T21:22:00.001-07:00

Its been quite awhile since I have blogged and the 2010 year has been quite eventful in our household. I have been working at Hobby Lobby since May of 2009 and really enjoy my job. Robert enlisted in the National Guard and was gone from Jan till July and that was so heart breaking for this mom; especially during boot camp (10 weeks) that we didn't get to talk to him much.

Rob had rotator cuff, bicep and labrum surgery July 2nd and recovered till October and then on Sept 29 I had two discs in my neck replaced with my own bone and artificial bone and then fused together so I am now recovering and its been a hard transition. I will be out of work until Dec 22. I have always taken care of Rob during his surgery's so this is a new thing being the patient and I would rather be the care giver in all honesty.

Robert is now dating a wonderful girl, Tracy Schwark and we have really enjoyed her. No drama which has been such a blessing in our lives. He is going to enroll back in school in January to finish his associates degree and then he is looking into going into the Police Academy.

Hall Update

2009-01-14T09:44:00.000-08:00

This is our niece, Alyssa on Christmas Eve opening presents. It is amazing how old she is getting.

Here is Zack, our nephew on my side.

This is Travis which is one of our great nephews on Rob's side. He is a very serious baby but loves music so hopefully one day his smiles will come out. I think he is just trying to figure things out.

This is our oldest great nephew, Jack and he will be 3 years old this year. He is very quiet until you get to know him and always runs and hides when he first sees you because he is so reserved. His brother Sam just turned a year old and has the same personality which is quite odd because their dad is our nephew Adam and he has always been the most friendlist and loves people. When Adam married Amber our family got a great addition to our family which is Amber's daughter, Shelby. She is a wonderful sister to the boys and soon she will have a sister. Amber is due to have a girl----YEAH!!!! in May and we are all so excited to add a girl to the abundance of great nephews.

This is Nathan the little chatter box and his brother Noah behind him in the picture. Nathan loves everybody and will talk to anyone and repeat anything!!!! Now his mom, Amy which is Rob's niece is very quiet and reserved...I think they switched babies...lol.

It has been a long time since I have been on the blog here but only because not too much exciting going on. The CHRISTmas season was great as always and am so glad that we have Jesus in our lives. With all the great nephews that we have had over the last few years it was extremely fun to watch the little ones this year open presents and see the joy upon their faces. I didn't get pictures of our great nephew Sam and Aiden opening gifts because Sam was napping and I was helping Aiden open his gift. It is so much fun to see the different personalities they all have.

I am once again without a job and it is getting pretty depressing and now I am waiting to see if I will get the remainder of my 20 week Federal Unemployment Extension. I have been searching but not much out there and many of the jobs I have applied for are part time which I wouldn't mind but I have always carried the health benefits for us so after the 20th of January we will be without health benefits.

We are heading for Orange, Texas on Friday, January 23rd for a mission trip for disaster relief from Hurricane Ike. I am definitely excited for warmer weather because I dislike Michigan weather!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! We have found a couple construction companies in the area that are looking for work so Rob is going to check that out while we are there. At this point we don't have much to lose. Even if he works there for a few weeks and then comes home for a week or so. Wherever God sends us is what we will have to do. I have been ready to leave Michigan for a few years but Rob has a hard time leaving. The biggest obstacle would be for me is leaving Robert behind but at least I know he has family and friends here. We will see what happens. Even if it is for just a time that is fine also. We just need to be able to pay our bills and put food on our table.

So as we keep searching for work we will keep the faith that God is going to provide for our every provision and keep smiling!!!!

Good and Bad Colon Update

2008-09-25T19:18:00.000-07:00

I had a colonoscopy done today and the results were good right now but can turn bad. I have diverticulosis in 2/3 of my colon...yes that is 2/3rds. I was in shock about that and it never goes away but it can be contained with my diet. Now I am back on fruits and veggies since I need 25-30 grams of fiber a day. I can have red meat twice a week and I LOVE red meat so this is going to be the biggest challenge of them all. I am not a turkey, chicken and fish eater and of course I can have all I want of that. Limited dairy since it does curdle and clings to a colon that does not work properly. Whole grain breads, pastas and rices are a good thing along with high fiber cereal (most high fiber cereal taste like eating hay) but I can do Raisin Bran which has 7 grams per cup.

The colonoscopy was a breeze and I didn't feel a thing and the fastest test done when you are put out. What they use to put you out doesn't make you feel droggy (is that a word?) when you wake up and you pretty much have your senses about you. The nurse said in 20 seconds I would be out and of course I was going to battle that and beat that 20 seconds but I only got to 4 and I don't remember anything besides waking up and Rob sitting in the chair next to me. No pain, no discomfort and the nicest nurses and doctors ever. I just know that I missed 10-15 minutes of my life that I don't remember but it was fast so no complaints there.

So as we were driving home I said to Rob, "So what happens if this diet doesn't curtail the pain and infections." I had a hard time taking anything in after the dr said that 2/3rds of my colon is affected. I was in complete shock and really kind of scared. Robs reply was that the doctor said that they would have to remove the 2/3rds. So I asked "Can I live like this, with only 1/3 working?" The doctor said for a time but then I would probably end up with stomach problems because the colon wouldn't have time to process the food so my best option in life at this time is to eat the fruits and veggies and stay away from the other junk in my life otherwise I could be on a bag the rest of my life.

Here is my conclusion right now: God has been working on me spiritually with so many things the last six months and now he is cleansing my body also to get rid of the "JUNK" in my life. I have learned a lot and realized that God is my provider and what is here on this earth is NOT eternal but the hope I have in HIM is eternal and I thank HIM for that. I have grown so much in my faith the last six months and have realized that no one person on this earth can give me the satisifaction that I need besides God. HE is our sustainer as long as we let HIM be!!!! I remember a time when there would be trouble I would run from HIM and say "If you love me why am I going through this" but now I can say I fall to my knees and ask HIM to take me into HIS Holy of Holies.

As I sit here in tears I will keep smiling that Jesus died on the cross for my sin and yours to cover us with HIS amazing love.

Richmond Good Ole Days Parade

2008-09-08T06:26:00.000-07:00

We went and supported David Engle in the parade on Sunday afternoon. He is a fireman for Lenox Township and was asked to walk in the parade. The Engle family have became great friends of ours from church and we consider them a major part of our family. David's wife Ruth and I have became great friends and we have had some wonderful times together. Keep up the great marriage that you are both working to strive for!!! Love Ya!!!

Cindy & Terry's 25th Wedding Anniversary

2008-09-08T06:10:00.000-07:00

Rob's sister, Cindy and her husband Terry renewed their vows for their 25th anniversary on Sept 6th out at 34 & Romeo Plank at one of their friends house. It was beautiful.

This is their son Kyle and Kyle's son Travis. They all stood up in the renewal.
Kyle, Travis, Nicholas and his son Adien. Nicholas is also their son.
They were hoping that their grandsons would walk with Terry down the walkway but Travis and Aiden didn't want any part of that so Terry had to pick them up and carry them.

Rob and I posing for a picture at the pond in front of the house where they had their renewal at. It was a beautiful place.

Colon Specialist Update

2008-09-04T06:25:00.000-07:00

I seen the colon specialist last night and I have a colonoscopy on Sept 23. He wants to wait six weeks after the initial attack before going in. I have a new diet that I am not especially fond of but if it will stop these attacks I will do it. My diet now consists of breads, pasta, rice, chicken, turkey, broths and jellos. That is it. He said my worst enemies are vegetables and fruits at this point until my colon gets healthier and if it ever gets healthy again. That is what the colonoscopy is going to tell whether I will be able to eat normally again.

I was up all night again with pains and the works and sitting on the toilet for hours. I can't imagine that I have to go through this for three more weeks unless bleeding occurs then I am to go straight to the hospital.

Keep smiling!!!!!

Exhausted, Tired and on the road to depression

2008-08-30T18:25:00.000-07:00

Well I don't even know where to start besides sometimes life is just a little depressing. I have been job searching for a good month consistently!!!!!! My unemployment runs out in four weeks and I still have nothing lined up. I earned an associates degree in accounting and still cannot find a job in this messed up economy and state and have to start paying on that degree in January. The jobs that are out there are a joke anymore. $8.50 an hour and no benefits to run an office. I mean every aspect of the office...accounts payable, receivable, phones, dispatching, scheduling and the works. Now how does one pay bills plus medical benefits with $8.50 an hour? Sure jobs are not paying what they use to but our bills did not magically disappear.

I am crying out to God right now continually and I just know that HE is going to see me through this otherwise I am going to lose my sanity. I keep trying to think of the positives in life such as my husband and son. If we lost everything except one another it wouldn't matter at this point!! I surely am NOT taking it with me when I go to Heaven. I keep trying to remind myself of what is really important in this life on earth and that is shining the light of JESUS!!!! but sometimes it sure is hard when things aren't going my way...lol!!!!!! So I will wait on the Lord and trust in HIM to bring us through this.

Keep smiling!!!!!!!

Girl's Weekend (Gunn Lake)

2008-08-20T13:12:00.000-07:00

Me, Katie McCoy (above), Emilia Czaplicka (below) with Ruth Engle and Shelly Fullum went leisurely down the canal on rafts. When I can't see the bottom I have issues so I really tried being brave but there were so many turtles it really spooked me out. I have a pool at home so that is my kind of rafting not having to worry about who is peeking at you. Some of the turtles were quite big or bigger than I would want them to be...lol.

Above is Haley. She is the first one that pooped out the first night so of course I had to get a pic of that. She did travel all day back from Virginia on her vacation and sat in airports but this is girl's weekend. It don't happen to often and if this old lady can stay up late anyone can.
I am a little out of order here in the pics but "Stivers" is where we stopped to eat on the way out to the lake on the first night. It was a little scary from the outside but some great food.

Unfortunately the boat wouldn't start at one point while out on the lake so we had to get a tow from the other boat in the picture. Dear sweet Shelly is such a handy lady that she is the one that tied the knot to get us back to the cottage.
Above are all of us except Shelly (she is taking the pic)...I should've had someone else take it but sometimes I just don't think of those things. We all went to Craig's Cruisers and ate dinner, played putt-putt and rode go carts. Left front (Ruth Engle, Haley Engle, Joy Engle) Right front (Emilia Czaplicka, Donna Hall, Katie McCoy). There are lots of deer in the area so someone dared me to scare away the deer by screaming out the window on the way back home so of course their request happened. I have the lungs of all lungs.
Above is Joy Engle just chilling out on the boat. Thanks for the use of the cottage, Joy. It will always be remembered and hope that there will be many more years ahead for girl's weekend. It was a hoot!!!!!
Here is me trying to be a brave soul with Turtle Lake...oh it is really called Gunn Lake but Turtle is more appropriate.
Shelly paddled us back down the canal...Thanks Shelly. The next day her muscles were so sore.

The bonds that we made on Saturday night doing an open forum night where we put questions into a bowl and then each of us answered the questions will always be remembered. We laughed, cried, and just listened at times. The connections is definitely what most of us needed at this point in our lives!!!!! I love each of them in a different way but knowing that we are all Sisters in Christ is our main bond and I am excited to strengthen those bonds from here on out.

Keep smiling

Cat Scan Update

2008-08-15T13:25:00.000-07:00

My results came back from the catscan and I have to go see a colon specialist on Sept 3rd. I do have some scar tissue that may be causing some blockage and that is what caused my flare up and infection this past week. They are thinking it is from the diverticulitis but just want to make sure that there is nothing else going on. The antiobiotics are doing the job and I am feeling much better so hopefully from here on out I can finish off my summer on the upswing instead of the downswing. I will have a colonoscopy at some point but will not know the date until I see the specialist.

Keep on praying and smiling.

Ohio Pyle, PA

2008-08-15T13:10:00.000-07:00

Between the two pictures is some of our small group that decided to go white water rafting in Ohiopyle, PA last weekend. We had a blast!!!! Andrea didn't go rafting with us but she did attend a wedding near this spot while we were rafting.
Rob and I posing for a picture. It isn't to often that I get in pictures because I am usually the one taking them. Thanks Ron Thomas for taking the picture!!! Much appreciated.

Here is the lodge we stayed in. Kind of different but it was clean. It is called Lodge at Chalkhill for anyone that is wondering or wanting to venture to PA to white water raft....Tennessee has better rapids...or at least I think they do. Not as many rocks...lol.
Most of the group rode down on motorcycles minus myself and Bruce and Andrea Spratt.

This is a picture of the area where we started but thank goodness not where we went down. Going out of the raft on a smaller rapid was enough for me. Those pictures are being developed as we speak.

This is a picture off of the deck of the back of the lodge where we stayed. Has a little lake where you can fish and etc...but no time for that. We left on Friday, rafted on Saturday and came home on Sunday. Would've liked to stay in the area a little longer to site see but maybe another time.

It was fun to connect with our group and just get away from every day life.

Ticking Time Bomb

2008-08-13T12:22:00.001-07:00

I have been sick off and on since Sunday. Major cramping on Sunday night and all day Monday. By Tuesday night I was running a fever and all the great signs of the flu. Last night my temp spiked up to 102 so today I did a doctor visit. Dr. is hoping it is a flu bug but he hasn't heard of one lasting that long right now. My cramping in my abdomen has been excruciating at times so tomorrow morning I have a cat scan at 11:30 a.m. He is thinking it is possibly an abcest in my colon from my diverticulitis and said if I start fever and etc...again tonight after the shots and pills he gave me that I am to go to emergency right away. I haven't had an attack in a LONG time. Probably 6-7 years.

The downside is that I am suppose to go away this weekend for a girl's weekend and this is really pushing it since we are leaving on Friday sometime. Hopefully by tomorrow or first thing Friday a.m. I will have results back to whether it is my colon or not. If it is my colon then my girl's weekend will have to wait for another time....boohoo!!!!!

So as you see with my concussion a couple weeks ago, emergency root canals, and now this; I am a ticking time bomb and I just want to feel well for awhile.

Keep smiling!!!! and praying!!!!!!

Summer Time Fun

2008-08-07T06:43:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow a group of us that are in small groups at our church are leaving to go white water rafting in Pennsylvania. There are eight of us going down and five to six of us riding motorcycles down. I am going to ride for a time but not sure I can withstand that many hours on the back of a motorcycle and the weather is suppose to cool off. If it isn't eighty on the back of a motorcycle I freeze. I LOVE the heat and get cold very easily so I will be joining the Spratt's in their car at times.

My softball injury is pretty much healed up. A little bruising to the touch still but my vision is all back to normal and etc....

I have a job interview on Tuesday (thanks to a friend that pulled some strings for me). It is the first interview I have had since losing my job on April 2nd. I know financially I need to go back to work for the health benefits and etc...but it has been WONDERFUL being a stay at home mom and wife the past four months.

Robert is kinda signed up for college but not having much luck getting classes since we got a late start. Our plan is for him to take 2 classes right now while working at Kroger's but so far he only has one class and is on a waiting list for another.

Looking forward to a girl's weekend away the weekend of the 15th. Haven't done that in a long time. It will be a blast!!!!!!!!

Keep smiling!!!!

Update

2008-07-29T13:07:00.000-07:00

Each new day brings a new experience of this concussion. Today I awoke to a black eye. I was kind of surprised but now I know why there was blurriness for a while. The blurriness is subsiding but now I have eye shadow (that I don't wear). My equilibrium gets better as each day passes but it still isn't 100% I feel fatigued if I do anything major.

Tonight the co-ed team plays and Rob said "bring your mitt and shoes." My reply, "your team will have to forfeit because I won't be on the field for awhile." Of course he was joking. I don't think he would let me out there. I think he was just as scared as I was the other day when it happened.

Keep smiling.

Concussion

2008-07-27T15:33:00.000-07:00

On Saturday a group of ladies from our church played in a softball tournament. We won the first two games which was a total upset for the other two teams we played against since we haven't beat them all year. We definitely were on a natural high. The first game...my niece Tammi started pitching and then Rob decided to put me in. I don't like pitching against this team (Grace) because they hit so many back up the middle and my reflexes are just not like they use to be. I endured the first two games but unfortunately in the third game I was taken by ambulance to Mt. Clemens General Hospital. I was pitching and Tracy from Grace hit one back at me and unfortunately I must not of seen it till the last minute but luckily I turned my head and was hit in the best spot possible on the side of the forehead. I seen white light and that was about it and it was pretty scary. My head felt luck a big fuzz ball swimming in a world of light. I never passed out but I wanted to but I don't like that feeling of blacking out and waking up not knowing what happened so I talked myself into staying through it. I immediately felt nauseated and my trip in an ambulance that is remembered is throwing up the whole way.

Once at the hospital I went in for a cat scan to make sure there was no fracture or internal bleeding. Two hours later I was back at the games rooting my team on as best as possible. I ended up having a concussion...thank the good Lord for all my wonderful teammates and other teams praying for me. It is minor besides my eye still having blurred vision which they say may take a few days to recover from the blow to the head. I will follow up with my family doctor at the end of the week.

Keep smiling!!!!!!

Robert's graduation party

2008-07-21T10:57:00.000-07:00

On July 19th we had Roberts graduation party and here is Robert with two of his friends; Dan and Jason. They are all great boys and they are making lots of memories with cruising Gratiot and etc....Keep making great choices!!!!
Here is one of the cakes that Robert's nanny bought for the party. Thanks Nanny!!!!

Renee and Greg Lathrup. I wish I would've thought about taking the picture of Renee when Greg dropped the water completely on top of her head. She didn't think it to funny and I wouldn't of either. It had rained some during the party and the water set on the top of the tent and Greg went to push the water onto his brother in law; Bruce but instead landed on Renee's head. Her hairdo definitely went flat after that but this picture was before hand.
Here is Robert and Judy Southerland. Judy's son, Levi and Robert have been friends since kindergarten.
Thanks David and Ruth for being the life guards at the pool during the party. The kids really enjoyed it. Thanks for your friendship and always willing to lend a hand. Your service will always be remembered.
Here are some of Robert's friends eating...Dan Haupt, Jason and Dan Barrett. Dan B and Robert just became friends this year and now Dan is off to Grand Valley. Good Luck Dan in all you do.

I know Robert will miss hanging out at Buffalo Wild Wings with you every week.

Here is a group of friends that stopped by also to share in Robert's graduation. Ron Thomas, Mike and April Spring and Rob Shelton.

There were so many others there also and we want to thank everyone for being a part of Robert's life thus far!!! It is great to know that we have so many friends and sisters and brothers in Christ. God Bless each and every one of you!!!!!! Love, The Halls.

Gabby

2008-07-21T10:45:00.000-07:00

It has been very hot the last week so I got the little pool out for the dogs and it was the first time that Gabby has been in it and she loved it as you can tell. She rolled in it and would splash around in it just like a little child would. It was so much fun watching her. It is one of the few times that I actually am not scolding her instead because she is always into everything.

Craziness

2008-07-10T18:31:00.000-07:00

Just an update into the Hall's crazy life. I deleted the pictures off my camera so don't have any pics to update anyone on. Maybe once I get them back from being developed I can scan some of them.

A couple weeks ago a great friend (Kevin Sanborn) of ours gave us tickets to the Tiger's game and that was the closest I have ever sat to the field and it was a blast. Section 138 Row 6. We could actually see the players faces. Thank You, Kevin!!!!

We then traveled up to Vassar for Pastor Cheri's ordination for a day trip and got to see some wonderful friends of ours that we miss dearly, Pastor Ed and Doreen!!! We will go and visit them one day. I wish we could've spent more time with them but with so many people that they needed to see that just wasn't possible. We traveled back home and then at the end of the week we went up for two nights of camping...well not really camping because we slept in our mini van with an air mattress that lost it's air but it was okay besides it was cold!!!!!

On the way home from Vassar on Saturday, July 5th we met our small group...well some of them in Frankenmuth at Dixie Motor Speedway for "Eve of Destruction." It is always so much fun to watch. They have different races where two cars are hooked up together and the one in the front has an engine and the one in the back has the brakes. Then there are school bus, figure eight races and they will actually crash into one another. We went together last year and decided to go back again this year and it was just as much fun.

This week is getting closer to Robert's graduation party which is on July 19th so we have been doing last minute things around home such as weeding gardens, painting, building a barbecue pit, cleaning garage and etc....Today I did the food shopping and I am cooking for the 250-300 people we are expecting so you can imagine that grocery bill...lol.

Ruth and David Engle came over last night to put together a power point presentation of Robert's life and I can't wait to see it when David finishes it. It will be a keepsake I am sure. Brought tears to my eyes while searching for pics through the years....seems like yesterday that he was born.

Then on top of it all this week I had a toothache so figured I better go into the dentist. So I went in yesterday and I had a cavity in between two teeth. The one tooth they could fill but of course the other one needed a root canal. So they started the root canal last night but couldn't finish because it was more extensive then Dr. Murrel expected so I went back in tonight and after two hours and four shots the root canal was done but no permanent filling in the tooth because he isn't sure the tooth can be saved. I will go back in two weeks to see what the options are after the tooth and the surrounding area heals. I just had a root canal in another tooth a few months ago so my teeth are falling apart fast and the money to get these done is unbelieavable.

When I came home yesterday from the dentist I had this great conversation with Rob about our 25 year anniversary in a few years. His sister and her husband are renewing their vows this year for theirs and I told Rob instead of that I would rather go to Hawaii...lol. His comment was "Your anniversary is your teeth"and how much we have spent on them. Only Rob would say something like that. I was in tears of course and he was joking but it didn't help matters at all.

So that is the crazy life of the Hall's the last couple weeks.

Keep smiling.

Anniversary- 22 years

2008-06-16T14:31:00.001-07:00

This past weekend was our 22 year wedding anniversary...WOW!!! We didn't celebrate at all except to do yard work all weekend long. We did take a break to go to two graduation parties for a little bit and then back to work. Bernie Engle, our wonderful friend, let us borrow his bobcat to level out the side yard that needed attention desperately since we have lived here (7 yrs). It was our personal dumping ground and over the winter we had some trees die out and we had to remove them so of course all the cement, asphalt, rock and etc...that we have dumped back there has to be removed because the trees no longer hide it. It is all cleared out back there now and it looks wonderful. All the debris is now sitting in our drive way needing to be dumped so that will be a chore all week. It is a big enough area that we cleared out that we could put our pool over there. We are going to build a barbecue pit over there also once we get all the sod laid. We need 240 yards of sod so it is a pretty big area...more for me to cut...lol but I wanted it to look nice for Roberts' graduation party that is coming upon us sooner than I want at this point. We have so much work we want to get done by then... thank goodness it is going to be outdoors because our house needs so much attention right now and there won't be enough time to get into all of that.

Keep smiling.

Associates Degree

2008-06-06T12:30:00.000-07:00

Today I turned in my final paper for my associates degree in accounting. The stress has now eased unbelievably. It felt like this day was never going to come. It took me 21 months to get my associates degree while working full time and homeschooling Robert and now I don't have school, am no longer homeschooling and am barely working. Went from one extreme to the other. Not sure what is going to happen career wise in the near future but God has put some things in place and I am not exactly happy about it but I am going to trust God that it will all work out for good.

Life changes so fast at times that if you blink you could really miss it. It has now been a week since Robert has graduated and that is a HUGE change for me. He is now growing up to be a man and that is heartbreaking for me. I have loved being a mom all these years and stepping back to let him make decisions is so hard but I am doing the best I can at this point and trying to give him words of wisdom instead of making his decisions for him. While he lives at home in our house there are rules that he must follow no matter what.

Keep smiling!!!!!!

Introducing Noah Wink

2008-05-31T07:25:00.000-07:00

Our niece, Amy, delivered Noah Wink: 8 lbs 12 oz., 21 inches on May 30th. I have not had the chance to go and see him since he was born on Robert's commencement but please be in prayer for this little one. His grandma (Deb) was at Robert's commencement last night and said that he has been in the nursery at the hospital all day because of fluid on his lungs and then in a couple weeks he has to be taken to Children's Hospital for surgery on his private parts. Not sure of the details but pray that God heals this little one quickly so that his parents and 15 month old brother, Nathan can enjoy this little one. He had red hair also under that little cap so now that makes four red heads in the family: Amy (our niece), both her sons and Robert.

Keep Smiling!!!!!

Robert Dean Steven Hall's commencement

2008-05-31T07:02:00.000-07:00

This picture is before the commencement just hanging out with some of his friends while they were getting ready for a class picture. Not that they schooled together since they are homeschoolers but Robert did play sports with a few of them.

This is the time that tears started welling up for me...when Robert walked into the sanctuary for his next journey in life. I am excited to see what it brings for him but I am sad to think that my only child has now grown up.

Instead of the traditional ceremony of the student receiving the diploma from the principal (never understood that anyhow...the principal never taught the student) the parents present the diploma to the graduate. Rob said a prayer of blessing over Robert. It sure makes it more memorable and personal and we had people that came to see Robert graduate say that was the best commencement they had been to. We want to thank everyone that came: Robert's grandparents, Rob and Tracy Shelton, Joan, Don, and Rob Dupree, Robert's Aunt Deb, Pastor Jason Fullum, Joy and Bernie Engle and Lindzy Long. We are so grateful for our church family and we thank you all for always being there for our family!!!!!

This is the class picture of the 32 graduates that were homeschooled and chose to go through a commencement. There are many others out there that were homeschooled but don't choose to go through a commencement.

This picture is of the students that were at commencement that played in some sport through the homeschool club: Summit Sports Club. We will definitely miss that part of our journey and we can tell that we miss it because Robert plays men's softball four nights a week and we go just about every game.

Robert: We love you!!!! We pray for the best for your journey in life. We are proud to say we have been parents to a wonderful son that has been such a great joy in our lives. Remember who to put first in your life: Our wonderful Savior....JESUS CHRIST!!!!! In what ever you do, do it for the Lord and HE will bless you abundantly. Love Ya, Mom and Dadf

Commencement Practice

2008-05-28T11:30:00.001-07:00

Last night Robert had commencement practice for high school graduation at Community Christian Church. I thought it would be good for Robert to have a finale for homeschool graduation and there is a homeschool connection in the area that does commencements for the graduates. He does know some of them from playing sports for the Summit Homeschool Sports Club.

Last night I kept my composure and didn't shed a tear but I can't promise that on Friday at his commencements. It is really a neat commencement and there is suppose to be about 600 coming to watch the commencement. The father prays over the graduate and we as parents present the diploma to the graduate which is really nice and personal. There is approximately 35 students graduating. Some students don't participate in the commencements but we thought it would be an ending to a new beginning of his life...WOW!!!! now that brings tears to my eyes!!!!
Where do the years go by? Treasure each day with your kids because when they start getting to this age and are getting independant it is heart breaking for us moms. It is exciting in the same breath and I am so excited to see where God will lead him and I pray that he will continue to follow God and realize that our church family means so much to us!!!! Ninety percent of the people that are attending in behalf of Robert, is our church family.

This weekend I will share pictures with everyone of his commencements.

Keep smiling!!!!

Home Again

2008-05-24T17:28:00.000-07:00

We arrived back in Michigan at 5 a.m. this morning after a 12 1/2 hour drive home from Alabama. We brought back all the equipment that is needed to start making the hidden drawer boxes. I am sure it will take a couple months to get the shop built in the garage along with getting ready for Robert's graduation party at the end of July. We have trees that still have to be removed and a pile of dirt and rocks that have been waiting for us since last summer.

Today I did most of my planting around the yard. Thank goodness I have mainly perennials in all my flower beds but I do like to plant pots around the yard.

We wanted to be back for church tomorrow because our church is honoring Alex Knapp, a friend's son that lost his legs past his knees in Iraq almost two months ago. Rob and I asked if we could do this in honor of Memorial Day. War is not always the greatest thing when it comes to losing lives and limbs but we need to stand behind our soldiers and support them for fighting for our freedom in a country that is losing its morale's.

Have a great Memorial Weekend and may God Bless you!!!!

Keep on smiling.

"Rocket" Dog

2008-05-23T06:18:00.000-07:00

Here is my dad's dog, Rocket. He is a rat terrier and the tiniest little thing. He is about 5 years old and weighs 4 lbs. His favorite thing to do is playing ball. He will continue on onto he can't walk anymore. He has been so much fun while here. Became our little buddy.

We are on our way home this afternoon from Alabama after we get a trailer hitch put on our van to bring home all the equipment on a trailer. We still were not able to train effectively but we believe we have it down enough to bring it home and get it set up. Otherwise we have to wait until October to come back to get the equipment because my dad is headed back to Oregon soon and we have to be running production of these boxes by then because I will need to bring some income in when my unemployment runs out in October.

Please be in prayer for us as we travel home this afternoon. Rob will have to do most of the driving because I don't do too well trailering. Makes me very nervous for some reason.

See everyone at home soon!!!! Keep smiling.

Hidden drawer boxes

2008-05-21T09:35:00.000-07:00

Yesterday we started training on making the hidden drawer boxes and we were quite frustrated because there were some parts of the saw that we just couldn't get down. We wanted to come up with our own "emblem" and as you see above we came up with the state of Michiatgan emblem on the boxes so that way if we sell them people will remember where they bought them from. You need something simple yet something that will be the "key" to open up the boxes. This morning we went out there and boom...Rob figured it out. With much prayer over our 3 mile nature walk yesterday at Monte Sano Mountain. There is still a lot of training that we have to do but that was the important part of it all that we struggled with yesterday. Please be in prayer for us as we go through this training and then bring it home in the next couple months and get ready to make them for craft shows and etc...in the fall. We are excited to learn it but we are also nervous on marketing them.

Keep on smiling!!!!

Alabama

2008-05-20T06:21:00.000-07:00

We arrived safely in Alabama yesterday around noon after going back home to return our dog to Jude. We wanted to take Gabby with us to keep her training going forward but unfortunately she doesn't like the car ride. From our house to the old Tiger Stadium she got sick 4 times so we turned around and took her home to Robert and then he took her out to Jude's. He is working full time and is at a ball field 4 days this week and we didn't want her tied up all week. Thank you Jude for caring for her!!!!

We are in Alabama looking at a business that my biological dad has offered us and to train on it if that is an option, so today we will hopefully see it run and etc...and make our decision by the end of the week. I am hoping that it is something that we want to do because I really don't want to go back into the work force at this time. We have been praying over it and hoping that God will give us a sense of peace this week over it. I have that sense of peace but Rob is hesitant and until he feels that I can't go forward.

The weather is in the 80's and this afternoon is suppose to hit the 90's and if you all know me I love the heat!!!!! Hopefully it follows us home at the end of the week.

Keep smiling!!!!!

Nathan and Steve

2008-05-12T13:09:00.001-07:00

Here is a picture of another great nephew, Nathan and his daddy Steve. Steve is married to our niece Amy and Amy is expecting another child on May 30th. She is having a ceaseran section that day. It is pretty amazing that Amy has children because she always said she didn't want any children so when she was pregnant with Nathan we were all so excited and then when Nathan was about 6 months she found out she was pregnant again so now we are awaiting the birth of little Noah. To watch all these nieces and nephews now having children is unbelievable and so exciting!!!! I asked Amy if she was going to try for a girl and her reply was "I am done." but we all know that God sometimes has other things in store for us.

Aunt Donna and Travis

2008-05-12T13:01:00.000-07:00

Here is me and Travis at Aiden's birthday party. Aiden and Travis (their dads are brothers; Nicholas and Kyle) are cousins and I keep Travis here and there so he used to me and if anyone knows me...I love babies. In the background is Deb (my sister in law) and Sam (great nephew) that was just born in January so there are so many babies in our family right now. It has been wonderful having all these babies around. They bring so much fun and laughter to the family. I can't wait to watch them grow up and can't wait to be a grandma myself one day but until then I will put all my love into these babies.

Aiden's 1st Birthday

2008-05-12T12:57:00.001-07:00

This past weekend we celebrated Aiden's first birthday. Aiden is one of our great nephews that was born this past year...we had plenty of great NEPHEWS born but no NIECES. Aiden is pictured above with his grandma, Cindy Wilson. Aiden isn't to big on going to other people that he doesn't see on a regular basis so I snapped shots of him while he was near people that he was comfortable with.

Happy Birthday Robert

2008-05-09T06:19:00.001-07:00

Yesterday was Roberts 18th bday...yes I said 18. It is hard to believe he is 18. Seems like yesterday when he was born. This is his mug shot that I took of him for his actual birthday. Robert, Lindzy, and I went to lunch at his favorite restaurant, Mexican Village and then off to find a softball bat that we are going to help contribute to for his birthday but we didn't find one that he wanted so now we have to order one on line and hope it is the one that he wants. Of course the subject of curfew came up quite a few times while having lunch and during the day because he wants a later curfew than midnight. We will worry about that when he needs to stay out past midnight like we usually do. He is done with homeschooling now and received his diploma the day before from the academy that we used. He is working almost full time at Kroger's...about 35-37 hours a week because they won't put him on full time with benefits and etc...Then in the fall he is going to Macomb for a couple years instead of going off to college because of costs and he is still unsure what he is going to get his degree in so no sense in spending wasted money.

Injured List

2008-05-06T14:46:00.000-07:00

Last night we had softball practice for the women's team at church and this is what I came home with. A big huge bruise on my upper thigh, near my hip. I am the pitcher on the team and it is the first and hopefully the last time I get hit with a ball...normally I get out of the way of them when they are coming fast but last night there just wasn't any time. Thank goodness it was on my leg and not my face...now that scares the daylights out of me to think that the face would get hit. It isn't feeling to well today but there were no tears shed but boy did I want to cuss like a sailor because it was quite painful but I didn't!!! Good hit Pastor Cheri...keep hitting like that and we will win all year...lol!!!!! Maybe this will be my last year.

Just for Fun

2008-05-06T14:39:00.001-07:00

A couple weeks ago some great friends of ours: David and Ruth Engle had us over for dinner and to play Rock Band (I think that is what it is called) along with Rob Dupree, Robert, and Shelly and Jason Fullum. It was the first time for me and we had a lot of fun with everyone. It is nice to be around the "younger" crowd. Keeps us young at heart and besides Rob and I are always game for anything....well just about anything. Thank you both for your hospitality and your friendship....it means the world to us. We love you both dearly!!!!!! Can't wait to do it again soon...next time at our house!!!!

Give Praise to the Lord

2008-04-25T11:10:00.000-07:00

Today we got Robert's results back from his tissue and white blood cell count and everything came back negative so we are praising the LORD!!!! I thank everyone that has been praying for Robert and us as we have went through this. God is amazing and strengthens us through the troubled times and I have learned that the more you pray the closer you get to HIM and I have been on my knees alot lately for so many things and I have came one step closer to my wonderful SAVIOR!!!

Now I will keep praying on the job situation for myself and I know that God will provide in HIS time. Right now it has been a good time to be laid off with Roberts graduation upon us and my last class of my associates degree and Rob has had so many calls for work...maybe I won't have to go back to work full time which I would love...I could do part time but only God knows what HIS plans are for me.

Keep on smiling!!!

Alex Knapp

2008-04-22T18:06:00.000-07:00

A family that we were acquainted with a few years ago when Robert was playing travel soccer is having a fundraiser this Saturday, April 26th from 1-7 p.m. at the VFW Hall on VanDyke between 24 & 25 Mile for their son, Alex Knapp. Alex (20 yrs old) has lost his legs up to his knees in a bombing accident in Iraq last month. The cost is $10 per person or $40 per family and it includes food and fun (not sure what the fun consists of). Rob and I will be at the VFW on Saturday from 5-7 p.m. (after working in the yard all day...woohoo).

For updates on Alex's condition you can go to www.caringbridge.org/visit/alexknapp1. It is quite overwhelming and will bring tears to your eyes. Alex and his mom, Jeannette have been in Washington at Walter Reed hospital for some time now and he has had many surgeries. Seems like from the website that he had a few weeks where he had surgery a few times a week.

Please be in prayer for this family.

Keep smiling!!!!!

Gabby

2008-04-22T06:04:00.000-07:00

Here is an update of how big our little terror is getting. Last week when I took her in to get spaded she weighed 30 lbs and she was 26 lbs when we got her. She still isn't trained to well but we are working on it. She is quite sassy though. She doesn't like the word "no" and when we tell her "no" she barks back...just like a child but she keeps us running that is for sure because she is always into something.

Keep on Praying

2008-04-16T10:12:00.000-07:00

Update: The doctor's office called again today and now Robert's white blood cell count is slightly elevated. When he goes back on Friday to get the tissue removed they will take more blood to see where his levels are at. We are praying that there was an infection in his body when he was sick last week that made his white blood cells elevate. He is feeling fine and back to work, school and sports. Thanks for all your prayers!!!!

Prayer Update

2008-04-11T19:24:00.001-07:00

Today Robert went in to have his biopsy done and wasn't able to because he has been running a fever since last night along with a sore throat, fevers, chills, and throwing up. They are now testing him for strep or mono.

We didn't realize how serious the mole that they removed was all about. It was not malignant but it did have bad cells in it so what they are going to do is remove the surrounding tissue to make sure that there are no other bad cells and test it to make sure that the surrounding area is not cancerous. They will core the area out and he will actually have a few stitches. We just thought they were going to scrape the area to make sure but that was not the case at all. He has to be fever free for 48 hours before they make any incisions so we are hoping for Wednesday as long as he doesn't have mono. So please continue to pray for him during this time of being sick and having the tissue removed. When it rains it pours but we will keep on smiling. :)

Prayer Please

2008-04-09T17:39:00.000-07:00

Today we received a phone call from the doctor on a mole that Robert had removed a few weeks ago off his collarbone. They want him to come back in to take samples of the surrounding tissues. Please be in prayer that the doctor's are just being cautious. As everyone is aware I am currently unemployed and insurance runs out the end of April. We do have another insurance in place but if they find we are not healthy our rates will climb and we really can't afford that. God has a plan and I am waiting patiently (not really) but I will keep smiling!!!!

Unemployed

2008-04-03T07:10:00.001-07:00

Well...I am officially unemployed. Yesterday after I was home from work I received a phone call that I was being laid off. It will be okay...yeah right. We will get through this financially but the my greatest concern is medical benefits. Tomorrow I go back for my results from my bone density test so prayers are appreciated at this time. I carry the medical benefits for us.

I could use the break mentally because going to college full time, working, homeschooling Robert and being a mom, wife and friend has been hard the last year and a half but I have to say I am a little worried. I am worried for Rob because he has to handle this financially so be praying for him during this. He says he is okay but I know it is tearing him up inside.

HE is on the throne and HE knows all things and HE has a plan for me; I just don't know it yet. I am trusting in HIM and leaning on HIS mighty hands for when I fall completely HE will be there to pick me up. Thank you JESUS!!!!

Keep on smiling.

Kansas

2008-03-23T14:38:00.000-07:00

Rob left today, Easter Sunday, for a short term mission trip along with five others from our church. They are going to help build five houses in a two week period to the area that was hit by a tornado last year. They will only be gone a week but I don't like when he is gone. Just glad that my finals for school are coming up so I can work on them this week while he is away. If it weren't for school I would've went to Kansas but with doing school on line and finals a week or so away I thought it best to stay behind. How awesome it is to help others in need. We will go on the mission trip in October 2008 wherever they decide to go whether it is back to Kansas or some other place that needs the help. It is always a great feeling to give than to receive and that is what our Savior did for us this past Friday on Good Friday when HE died on the cross for our sins. "OUR" sins...I cannot fathom that at times. Someone died for US!!! How wonderful is that. For me, for you, for each one of us. HE endured the pain for each one of us.

The drama today at church was unbelievable!!! The reenactment of the day HE died for us. The thrashings HE endured. Only Jesus could've endured that pain. There is NOT one of us that could've endured that pain but HE did because HE loved us so much! PRAISE HIS HOLY NAME!!!!! Thank You Jesus!!!

Keep smiling.

Gabby

2008-03-17T16:56:00.000-07:00

Just call us CRAZZZZYYY!!!! We got another dog. Her name is "Gabby" She is a husky, shephard, border collie mix. She is about 4 1/2 months old. Our house has been to quiet without Goliath (we still miss him) and we talked about getting another one. Before we left for Oklahoma Robert went to get a haircut at Shelly Stulz' and she told Robert about a friend that got one of the puppies and they were giving them away for free so we went and got one out in Imlay City. There are 3 left if anyone is looking for one. Robert and I took her today to get her shots and that free dog is now no longer free....lol. She needs grooming desperately but she has to have her shots in her for 5 days before the groomer will groom her so she will go get her first grooming on Saturday. Rob bathed her today but she needs trimmed and etc...Our other dogs we did ourselves because they are short haired but she needs clipping so this is new to us. I hope she stays on the smaller size. She isn't potty trained but only a couple accidents so far so she will stay on the hardwood and linoleum floors till she gets house broke.

Last Basketball game

2008-03-17T16:45:00.000-07:00

The boys didn't fare too well in Oklahoma at the National Tournament for homeschooler's but they made lasting memories. They won their last game and Robert played an AWESOME game for his finale. It was teary eyed that day knowing that organized school sports are now over. If Robert had his way he would love for us to homeschool one more year. #24 above is Tim and the next picture down is Sam. Rob and I will miss these boys along with Robert. We have enjoyed all of them and their families; they are awesome boys and hopefully Robert can pull some of them together to play basketball at Joe Dumar's fieldhouse during the summer. Out of the 10 on the team; 8 of them are graduating this year. So it will be a whole new varsity team next year. Thanks for the memories!!!! Keep smiling.

Oklahoma City Bombing

2008-03-17T16:25:00.000-07:00

The above pictures are of the site of the Oklahoma City bombing. I can't believe it has been 13 years in April. How often we forget what happened in the past. Even after so many years my heart was broken realizing how many lives were lost because of three people. The picture right above is a wall in front of the memorial museum of different writings and drawings of kids to show their concern. On one side of the building that still stands is the writing of team 5 that showed up. The picture of the elm tree above still stands after the bombing and they honor it as the symbol of human resilance; "The spirit of this city and this nation will not be defeated; our deeply rooted faith sustains us." This is the writing near the tree. The fence is a fence for passer byers to leave tokens of love and rememberance to the lost lives. The Jesus statue stands across the street where there is a church and the parsonage was destroyed during the bombing and the pastor of the church had this Jesus statue put on the corner where the parsonage was and it says "Jesus Wept." Can you imagine how many times a day Jesus weeps for us sinners here on earth. It was truly heart breaking to know that 168 lives were lost and out of those there were 19 children. God tells us to forgive but it sure is hard when children's lives were lost. Innocent children...I just sometimes don't understand it all but I am going to trust in God and keep the faith. Keep smiling!!!

Myriad Botannical Gardens

2008-03-17T16:19:00.000-07:00

On Wednesday, March 12th Rob and I went down to Oklahoma City and there was a botannical garden that was transformed like the rain forest. It was beautiful. I love to garden so it was neat to see some of the things that we cannot grow in Michigan. I can't wait for the warm weather to start my gardens (flower and vegetable).

Oklahoma Update

2008-03-12T13:25:00.000-07:00

No new pictures to post today. The boys lost again last night so their spirits are down today. Thank goodness today is a free day. This morning they found a gym to practice in because they are needing it. So now they are seeded in a bracket and the bracket plays start tomorrow. The games they have been playing are to see where they get seeded at. They are not very proud of the seeding and were expecting better but hopefully they will end in a win of the bracket they are in. Only time will tell. So today we are just chillin out. Went and did some laundry and sat out in the sun. It is 78 degrees today so beautiful out. Hope the weather is shaping up at home.

Robert the character

2008-03-11T13:52:00.000-07:00

At some point when taking the pictures today one of the guys noticed that Robert had his shorts on backwards...probably Pete #12 on the left...he is the fashion model of the group. They tease him all the time about "What not to wear" if you have ever seen the show. Pete gives everyone tips on how they should wear their clothes and etc..So Robert being his funny self turns his shirt around to make it look like Jeff's head is on Roberts body. These boys are so hilarious to be around. We laughed for the longest time. Oh yeah at one point Coach Al wanted Robert to stand on the bench with the other boys. Since he is the heaviest we didn't think that was a smart idea and neither did Robert. Keep smiling and I can say that today because we are!!!!!!

Summit Team

2008-03-11T13:47:00.000-07:00

Here are some awesome pictures of the guy on the basketball team. They are great sports for all the posing they did this afternoon. We all met at Olive Garden for lunch and then went back to the hotel for a picture shoot. It has been a great day so far and hopefully take they will bring back a win.

Summit vs. Dallas Thunder

2008-03-10T20:56:00.000-07:00

The boys played a tough game today but unfortunately it was a loss. The score ended up being 54-59. This huddle was before the game started and as you can see all the boys shaved their heads except for Tim on the right in the purple shirt. His sister is a hairdresser and she wasn't to keen on him shaving his head. Most of the boys were shaved before they arrived in OK but the ones that didn't were all shaved last night. It was a GREAT competitive game!!!! Tomorrow night they play at 8:20 p.m. It has been a lot of fun for the boys so far. They will have lots of memories for years to come. It is definitely becoming bittersweet to know that they only have four more days to play competitive ball together. I hope Robert has made friends for a life time because these boys are awesome.

Flag football in Oklahoma

2008-03-10T20:53:00.000-07:00

Here is Rob and Robert and the guys playing flag football out today. The warm weather brought smiles.

2008-03-10T20:50:00.000-07:00

This is the picture of the sun that I took today while sitting out watching the boys and coaches play football. The high today was 70 and it felt soooo good. I hope it follows us home next week. Maybe I will stay here. It would be real easy too since I despise cold weather.

Speed Limit

2008-03-10T20:48:00.001-07:00

This is the craziest speed limit sign we have ever seen. Behind the hotel we are staying at their is an apartment complex that we go through to go the backroads and we came across this 8 1/2 speed limit sign.

St. Louis, MO

2008-03-09T12:46:00.000-07:00

We left Michigan on Friday about 2 p.m. and arrived in St. Louis on Friday night. We got up on Saturday morning and went to the Arch which is the gateway to the West. We took the ride to the top and have some great pics of that also that I will post later. It took forever to load this on my slow laptop. The little elevator that we took to the top was quite cozy and I wish I would've taken a picture of that. There was enough room to seat 5 people and if you are clostraphobic you definitely don't want to ride to the top. Of course Robert complained the whole time. If it doesn't have to do with sports or a video game it is boring to him but as we tell him it isn't all about him.

We arrived in Oklahoma City on Saturday night about 7 p.m. It is much warmer here than Michigan but it still isn't 70 but it is better. We found a Wesleyan Church to attend this a.m. and boy what a difference...lol. There were probably 40 people in attendance and since we were out of towners we stuck out. The preaching was really good and they were very welcoming. Must be that Wesleyanism.

Keep you updated this week on the blog. Roberts first game is Monday night at 6:20. Not too much to see and do around here. Reminds me a lot of El Paso and the mission trip to Mexico. The roads are all designed the same way. Brought back many great memories of Tapestries!!!!

Great Newphews

2008-02-29T06:56:00.000-08:00

Here are two of our great nephews that were born in 2007. We had three born in 2007, one born in beginning of January and another great nephew due in June, 2008. Apparantely the "Hall" family cannot make girl babies...lol. Aiden is the older one in the picture and Travis is the younger one. I had the priviledge of keeping Travis last weekend for the night and it was sooooo much fun. He is a good baby. Doesn't like to sleep much during the day for naps but he is always smiling and loves attention. I haven't been able to be a big part of their lives this past year because of working full time and going to college full time but in June when I am finished with school I am going to make more time for all of them. It is so much fun watching our nieces and nephews become parents. It is amazing. Rob and Robert even held Travis at times which was reassuring because they both say they are not into babies.

Doctor Updates

2008-02-21T17:18:00.001-08:00

Today I went to the rheumatologist and really am no farther then I was when I entered the office. My ANA levels are elevated and not really sure why at this point. She even said she would not put my diagnosis as rheumatoid arthritis at this point but now we have to figure out what is causing my immune deficiency so more bloodwork and testing will happen in the next few days and I will follow up again with the doctor on March 20th. She put me on an inflammatory for the swelling in my hands and feet and is taking into consideration the other symptoms that I have such as exhaustion, restless sleep, low seritonin levels, colon problems, and the most annoying of all....muscle twitches throughout my body that is now in my right elbow but it moves to different places. It started in my left eye, went to my left knee and now in my right elbow.

Then last night I was eating dinner and my tooth cracked...the one that I had the emergency root canal on last week so today I went from the rheumatologist to the dentist and Dr. Murrel is out of the country so had to see a fill in dentist in his office. He ended up sanding the rough edge down that cracked because it was so rough it was cutting my tongue.

But I will keep smiling!!!!!!

Doctor's appointment

2008-02-19T18:49:00.000-08:00

I went to the doctor's last week for a cold...unusual but I have no immune system left so I can't fight off anything anymore. While there I had blood tests done that I have needed for some time now but have been putting it off. I got the call today from the doctor that I really didn't want...my ana levels are very highly elevated and I have to get back to the rheumatologist right away. I am confused by it all because I have felt pretty good except for being tired all of the time. Within a few minutes the doctor's office called back again to say that I also have a urinary tract infection that I wasn't even aware of...don't you have pain for that? It kind of scares me since I am only 42 years old...what is going to happen when I get really old? Oh yeah one more thing...on Thursday night I had an emergency root canal done...never had one and don't want one again. The cost is unbelievable and we have no dental insurance...to the sound of $1600....uggh. Told Robert he needs to think about becoming a dentist...for one the money is pretty good...lol and two then we could get it free....lol. So as you see I have had pretty trying week...really a pretty emotional month and I keep saying: Okay, Lord you can ease up anytime now. I couldn't imagine if I didn't have the Lord on my side...what would it really entail? Keep on smiling!!!!!!!

College Grades & Goliath update

2008-02-11T18:46:00.000-08:00

Two more classes down and three more to go. I am so glad the end is almost near. I just received my grades for the economic and organizational behavior theory class that I just finished last week and I received A-'s in both classes. So far throughout my associates degree I have received one B+ and the rest all A's so I am pretty proud of that but it has not been easy. My commencement date is Saturday, June 28th and I am so looking forward to this chapter in my life being over.

Today has been a week since Goliath has been gone and it still brings tears to my eyes. I miss him terribly but it is getting easier as the days go by. I can talk about him without crying every time now but I will always remember his great spirit he had. At one point this past week Robert put a picture of Goliath on the kitchen cupboard and I had to take it down. I just couldn't look at it every time I was in the kitchen. I went to the humane society this weekend to take a peek at what they had because it is so quiet in our house without him but Rob said not now. Which I was really surprised at that because Rob loves animals. Our other dog, Bailey, adjusted just fine. She is getting all the attention now and is loving every minute of it. She has kind of been pushed to the back burner because Goliath always took up so much of our time...he was a little hyper and needed more attention than her. I think she is a little bored though. No one to play with outside and get into trouble with. She does her business and then is right back by the door in no time.

Goliath

2008-02-05T05:27:00.000-08:00

Yesterday was a hard day for all of us and today is even harder. We put our dog, Goliath, to sleep yesterday and it is probably one of the saddest things I ever asked Rob to do. Goliath had attitude problems and whenever he felt saddened or etc...he used the house as his bathroom no matter where it was. He was a GREAT dog otherwise but I just could not handle the peeing anymore. He is greatly missed that is for sure. His bouncy spirit not being around is heart breaking and I have cried for over 24 hours now. Please be in prayer for us here because we are emotionally broke.

Roberts Basketball team "Summit Sports"

2008-01-28T15:35:00.000-08:00

Robert is #40 but I doubt anyone had a problem picking him out of the group. Robert has had a GREAT time playing for Summit Homeschool Basketball the past two years and he would love to continue. He has been pleading for us to homeschool one more year so that he can play for another year but at this point I am not up for that. He needs to move on to college and I keep telling him he can go down the street to Joe Dumar's and field a team. We are leaving for Oklahoma on March 7th or 8th till the 16th for a national basketball tournament for homeschoolers. Robert went last year with the team but we had to stay behind but since this is his last year we are opting to go and make memories of Robert's last organized high school sport...WOW!!!! Now that is heartbreaking. To imagine that my only child is going to be 18 in a few months is hard to swallow. Being a mom to Robert has been an experience but I wouldn't change it for the world. So many memories wrapped up in this heart of mine to last a life time and to think one day soon he is going to leave the place he has called home to build a life of his own.

Pastor Garry's 60th Surprise Party

2008-01-28T15:25:00.001-08:00

They had a surprise party for Pastor Garry at church on Friday night, January 25th for his 60th birthday and he was surprised. It was so much fun to see his excitement. There were many tears and many laughs. His son Grant arrived from Virginia to surprise his dad so there were many tears for that. Unfortunately Greg could not be there but he sent a letter ahead of time. Each of Pastor Garry's children spoke about what a blessing there dad has been in their lives and that shed so many tears all around. Robbie Mills came and put on a show for Pastor Garry along with his wife, Angie and son, Levi. It was so much fun. The skit at the end that Robbie put on will be remembered for a long time. We love you, Pastor Garry!!!!

Family

2008-01-21T19:16:00.000-08:00

Today I just created our family blog to share with others out of state and around the state. Robert and I are counting the days till we both graduate this year. Robert is a senior in high school and we have home schooled for the last two years. I am graduating with an associates degree in accounting and my last day of school is June 8th and I am counting down. At this point I am not even thinking of going forward to get my bachelor's degree. I know I need a break from school. Robert is playing basketball for Summit Sports Club which is a home school league. We are traveling to Oklahoma in March for the National Homeschool Tournament which we will incorporate our family vacation into this trip. I am hoping that we can fit another vacation in this summer if possible but we will see how things go financially.