• Feb. 17, 2008
Marathon Spirit

We went to the theater last month.

The movie theater, that is.

Seriously, though, you'd have thought we were taking in the opera or a broadway show with all the hoopla that surrounded this night! 

We had our picture taken before we left...

We went to dinner...

And we took pictures by the marquee...

We even arrived early so we were guaranteed a good seat.  Afterall, this was a one-time only viewing of "The Spirit of the Marathon," shown in select theaters across the country.  We were thrilled to discover that our city was home to one of those theaters!

My husband and father (who have each run 3 marathons thus far) were eagerly scanning the crowd for "their people."  Oh, you know that runners are a special breed.  They're bonded. They share a language and experience all their own.  If you've ever seen a long string of runners lined up along the woods prior to the start of a race, you know what I mean. 

The fun thing was that my mom and I were as excited about this premier as the guys were.  We've been spectators and cheerleaders at each of the marathons our guys have run, and we like to think that by now, we're professional fans.  We always laugh at the spectator's guide that is provided at one of the marathons the guys run.  There are guidelines and tips for spectators and a listing of suggested encouraging phrases to yell as the runners pass by.  The corniest?  Keep smiling! 

While you might think that a marathon movie appeals only to die-hard marathoners, I found myself inspired...deeply moved...and challenged.  I left thinking, "I want to do that,"---not because the documentary made it look easy, mind you; because I want to stretch myself and exert myself beyond what I think is possible.  I want to endure when it hurts and press through the pain.  I want to achieve the seemingly impossible.

I may or may not ever run a full 26.2 miles.  But for now I'm setting small, more achievable (realistic) goals.  I ran my first 2-mile race two years ago.  This year I'm aiming for a 5K...and with my early morning running partners and friends, I believe we'll achieve this goal.

For those of you who are runners, love a runner, or just enjoy a feel-good, inspirational story, there will be an encore presentation of "The Spirit of the Marathon" this Thursday evening, February 21.  Check the listings to see if it will be showing anywhere near you! 

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• Sep. 27, 2007
You Make Me Smile

My FIAR friend, Hollie, brightened my day with the "You Make Me Smile" award.  She makes me smile, as well, as she also has three beautiful boys.  Reading their latest antics, adventures, and discoveries makes me feel right at home.

This is what the person that created this award says about it...

The thing that I love most about blogging is that I learn so much about a person just by reading their blog.  I have met MANY wonderful people with wonderful stories to tell, and I am grateful every day for each person that I have the pleasure of crossing paths in life with.  I wanted to create something special for the top ten people who have inspired me through their blogging; the stories they tell, and the lives that they lead with grace and dignity. I visit their blogs for inspiration and encouragement. 

I'm repeatedly blessed through the writings and insights of so many blogging friends, but today I have chosen to highlight five who have particularly blessed my heart in recent days...

Brenda ~ I'm so thankful that God has placed women of all ages in my life; friends who are at different stages in their journey; friends who walk a bit ahead of me and are paving the way and leading by example.  Brenda is a wife of over 30 years and a mom of 2 adult sons whom she homeschooled.  I love hearing her heart...hearing her pray...hearing how God has answered those prayers.  Her life (and her blog) make me smile...

Ryan & Melissa ~ Originally from our area, Ryan grew up an MK in Papua New Guinea.  When his family came home on furlough, he was part of our youth group.  Two years ago when my husband and I visited PNG, we got to stay with and visit his parents.  Anyhow, little Ryan grew up and married a beautiful young woman (another MK) named Melissa.  Together they served with us on our Jr. High youth staff for a couple years, until a year ago when they left to complete their missionary training so that they, too, can return to the field and share the gospel with those who haven't heard.  While it's always hard to see loved ones go, their lives regularly inspire and motivate me.  While I prefer to catch-up with them in person over coffee, I love reading their blog and hearing all that God is doing in and through them.  They make me smile! 

Tania ~ Her blog isn't public, so I won't be sharing a link, but if I'm doling out awards to people who make me smile, she must be included!  One of our former students, Tania truly inspires me.  She's always been creative, and her blog overflows with scrapbooking layouts, beautiful family photos, delicious recipes, and sweet memories.  Tania, you make my heart smile with every visit! 

Jessica ~ When she and her husband sensed God leading them to adopt, they obeyed!  And when God in His all-wise, loving ways unexpectedly led them to a sibling group of three in Ethiopia, they embraced His plan.  Watching God lead and direct throughout their adoption journey was such a thrill, and now to see them home and adjusting to being a family of 10 has been an absolute joy.  Jessica, my heart smiles at the very thought of your family! 

John & Linda ~ I grew up with John from Jr. High on.  Both he and his wife, Linda, were MK's, and they both had a deep desire to return to the field one day.  With 5 beautiful children, John and Linda served faithfully in our church for the last several years.  And in their hearts, they never lost sight of what God had called them to do.  Oh, it would have been easy to get comfortable.  But John and Linda obeyed, and this fall, they sold their house, said farewell to family and friends, and obeyed God's call to finish their missionary training in another state.  I'm so thankful for friends such as these; friends who don't grow cold or complacent; friends who don't take the easy road; friends who hear God's voice and respond.  John, Linda, and family ~ you make me smile.  We miss you!

Thanks for your sweet touch upon my life!  Feel free to pass the lovin' on to bloggers who make you smile! 

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• Sep. 4, 2007
Nice Matters!

Diane at A Day in the Life has graced me with the "Nice Matters" award.  Thanks so much, Diane! 

"This award is for those bloggers who are nice people; good blog friends and those who inspire good feelings and inspiration. Also for those who are a positive influence on our blogging world.”

I now have the pleasure of presenting the "Nice Matters" award to 5 other inspirational bloggers.  I've chosen to honor 5 women who are not only standout bloggers, but women whom I also have the delight of knowing in real life!  These girls have truly blessed and inspired me by their love for their families, but most of all, for their God.  Thank you, sweet friends, for your beautiful lives!

My dear sister-in-law and friend, Stacey, at Mocha Moments

My dear friend and heart sister, Nichole, at Pathway of Blessing

My friend and co-leader of our homeschool ministry, Amy, at A Mile in My Shoes

My friend and fellow youth staff leader, Heather, at My Yarn Thoughts

My sweet and dearly missed friend, Tracy, at Keeper of the B's

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• Aug. 9, 2007
Grace & Buzz

My husband and I seem to have been affected by some weird oddities lately.  Two weeks ago I most (un)gracefully took a flying leap down our stairs with, mind you, a full hand of Phase 10 cards in my grasp!  The cards scattered as I fell in a heap upon our landing.  My husband called from the next room, "What was that?!" as I laughed and laughed and squeaked out a weak little "me...."  Well, as amused as I was, my ungraceful act caused me to break a toe.  And so, disappointing as it is, I've been unable to put on a closed shoe in more than 2 weeks which has put a huge damper on my daily running regimine.  Bummer.  I did, however, claim a victory in that particular Phase 10 tournament.  Perhaps it was because my competitors felt sorry for me, but I'd like to think it was pure skill and strategy...

Yesterday my husband was out on an early morning bike ride when he literally had a collision with a bee of some sort.  As he was riding, a bee flew into his lip and was gone upon impact.  He did, however, leave a little souvenir for my husband.  This is what he looked like this morning:

As per our doctor friend's orders, he's icing it and taking regular doses of Benadryl, so fear not.  Thankfully, he has a terrific sense of humor about the whole thing ~ he didn't even get irritated with me when I was unable to look at him with a straight face this morning.  I tried...really I did.  But I just busted up laughing every time!  Man, how I love that guy!

Well, that's all for today's update.  It's Grace & Buzz signing off...

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• Jul. 31, 2007
Blogger Reflection Award

When I began blogging almost 2 years ago, I was completely unaware of what a blessing it would turn out to be.  I started out blogging pretty much for me, assuming that I would be one of the few who would actually read my blog entries (okay, me and my mom).     I was unaware of the immense encouragement I'd receive through reading the heart thoughts and prayers of others all over the globe.  I can't count the number of times I've been reminded of God's grace and goodness as I've read the thoughts, victories, struggles, and prayers of other bloggers.

EEEEMommy has honored me with the Blogger Reflection Award, and I in turn am able to pass the honor on to five notable bloggers.  I had to read up on the background of this award in order to know how to proceed, and as I did, I was completely humbled and overwhelmed to even be considered for this award.  Thank you, EEEEMommy! 

Jocelyn created the Blogger Reflection Award.  In her words,

"The reason for the title is because this award should make you reflect on five bloggers who have been an encouragement, a source of love, impacted you in some way, and have been a Godly example to you. Five Bloggers who when you reflect on them you get a sense of pride and joy... of knowing them and being blessed by them.

This award is for the best-of-the-best so consider who you pick, carefully. This award should not be given to just anyone. If you're going to do the award don't just write a few words and slap it on your blog. Write real thoughts about these bloggers and what they've been to you, and if the bloggers you pick have already been given the award, don't be afraid to give to them again. They deserve it as many times as it's given."

With that said, I gladly present the Blogger Reflection Award to...

My husband ~ I've often considered how blessed I am to be the recipient of my husband's love day-in-and-day-out.  I see the love and respect that is showered on him by so many people, but at the end of an event, it's me who gets to go home with him!  And he's the same here as he is "out there."  I was thrilled when my husband took the plunge and began a blog in May.  He's a fantastic communicator who is able to relate well to teenagers all the way up through the elderly.  He's got such a heart and passion for the family, particularly in encouraging men to take seriously their role of leadership in the home.  Every time I read his blog, talk to him one on one, or hear him teach/preach, I walk away feeling deeply encouraged and downright giddy as I consider, "He's mine!" 

Each time I visit Angela's blog, my heart is reminded that God's love and grace is sufficient for each need we face.  Throughout the joy-filled days and the dry, desert wilderness, this lovely woman has clung to her Savior and reminded us that God is good.  Her words are edifying and point straight back to Jesus.  I'm so thankful for her commitment to listen to the Voice of Truth and not be swayed by varying emotions.  She truly is an lovely example of grace and strength.

My friend, Jen, also lives a life that inspires and motivates me.  She and her husband are raising three beautiful little girls with passion and purpose.  Jen understands that in order to be the wife and mother that God has called her to be, she must be allowing Him to fill her up.  She takes seriously the role that God has given her, and she intentionally plans for ways to set an atmosphere of joy and peace in her home.  Her posts are filled with humility and a sincere desire for God to be honored and glorified in her life.  I'm always so challenged and inspired as I read what God is teaching this sweet friend.

I've honored my friend, Barb, in the past with the "Rockin' Girl Blogger" award.  However, not only is she a Rockin' mama, she's also a mama who causes me to ponder and reflect upon the things that God is asking of me.  As I've mentioned before, her heart for women is evident, and she deeply desires for each one of us to see us as God sees us.  One of my favorite posts written by Barb sticks with me even today.  She lovingly reminded readers that God is enthralled with our beauty (Psalm 45:11) and He rejoices over us with singing (Zephaniah 3:17).  What a needed but oft forgotten message in today's society!  I'm so thankful for the countless ways that God is using Barb in the lives of those around her.  Her life truly exudes a lovely aroma.

I've also drawn your attention to my friend, Bo, in the past.  Though we've never met in person, this sweet woman has truly been a mentor to me over the past several years.  With wit, honesty, wisdom, and a deep passion for Christ, she shares those things God is teaching her in a devotional-style.  I'm so thankful that she humbly yet boldly shares her life lessons about marriage, parenting, homemaking, and so much more.  Her posts truly give me much to ponder and encourage me to embrace each day for the glory of God. 

I extend my deep gratitude to each one of you for being richly used of God to spur me on in my walk with Christ!  I encourage you to pass this award on to 5 more bloggers who have made a difference in your life!

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• Jul. 2, 2007
You Rock!

My blogging friend, Diane, awarded me with the Rockin' Girl Blogger award!  What a delightful surprise on a Monday morning!  Thank you, Diane, for your kind words and encouragement. 

I now get the honor of nominating 5 (   only 5?) other blogging moms for this award.  And the nominees are:

Barb ~ I've been blessed to "know" Barb for over 7 years, though we've had the pleasure of meeting in person only once.  Her passion for God and and her heart for women has both blessed and challenged my heart.  She hears about a need and faithfully prays.  Often she acts quietly behind the scenes to bring encouragement to needy hearts.  Your heart will be inspired and encouraged by Barb's wise, godly words...

Leslie  began her blog following the birth of her 6th child, precious Eliana.  This dear servant of God has transparently shared her heart...both the highs and the lows...over the past several months.  Through it all, her faith and trust in God has been steadfast.  Her testimony and example have bolstered the faith of many who read her story.  God is using this dear woman and her family so powerfully. 

Jessica ~ 3 John 1:4 says, "I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth."  I often equate this not only to my own sons, but to "our" kids in youth group and those who we've watched take flight and go on to serve the Lord.  Jessica is one of those who was once part of our youth group, and now to see her loving and serving her family and her God is a joy to my heart.  Her blog is full of creativity as she knits and bakes.  I'm always inspired! 

Mason Moments ~ This friend and I are were good friends in high school, and have only in recent years reconnected.  She and her husband train and nurture their sons...and little lady...with passion and purpose.  I enjoy reading about the intentionality with which they are discipling the hearts of their young family. 

Bo ~ This blogging friend has inspired me in countless ways, but primarily in regard to writing!  God has given her a gift that she wisely uses to build and encourage the Kingdom!  I'm particularly grateful for the "tips for writers" email she has developed for those of us who like to dabble in writing.  Her sense of humor and her zest for life is a true blessing!

If your name appears above, let me just take a moment to thank you for sharing your insights, lessons, ideas, and ponderings.  You've brought much encouragement to my heart!  You're now asked to nominate 5 other women for this award...

And to those of you who may have been introduced to these delightful ladies and bloggers for the first time, I hope you enjoy getting to know them.  I know you'll be blessed!

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• May. 4, 2007
Tagged ~ Twice!

I've been tagged by both ClagettsFLStyle and Heather.  Here's how it works: Each player starts with 7 random facts/habits about themselves. People who are tagged need to write on their own blog about their seven things, as well as these rules. You need to tag others and list their names. Don’t forget to leave them a comment telling them that they have been tagged and to read your blog!

* I still have a baby tooth.  That's right...no permanant tooth above it.  The dentist had always told me I'd most likely lose it in my 30's.  Now isn't that something to look forward to?  The self-consciousness of adolescence was uncomfortable enough the first time around.  I don't relish it a second time...

* I married my high school sweetheart.  We started dating 19 years ago when I was a sophomore and he was a senior.  After all these years, it just keeps getting better!

* I have my first (but not last ) cup of coffee at approximately 5:45 am each morning...right before two of my friends and I go out for a run and/or walk. 

* My classmates and I once went on strike in support of a "small engines" class that was about to get cut at our high school.  While I'm not proud of my little bout of rebellion, it is somewhat hysterical.  If you know me, you know that I'm "all-girl" and could care less about whether or not a small engines class is cut.  And by the way...the class was saved!

* Three years ago, my pizza recipe won grand prize in a national cooking magazine!

* We were just trying to help...really!  Years ago, my husband and I (and a friend...who shall remain nameless...S) were filling those little tulle bags with birdseed which would be thrown following the wedding we were in.  Unbeknownst to us, there are different types of birdseed...including varieties with red pepper  (evidently to keep squirrels at bay).  Fast forward to the wedding day.  Needless to say, a huge, dark cloud hung over the reception as paramedics needed to be called in to deal with numerous "victims" whose eyes were watering and noses were bleeding.  And yes, the bride and groom had mercy on us and forgave us...right D & T?  :)

* Before my husband and I ever started dating, I longed to marry a youth pastor.  When my then-boyfriend and I started dating, I didn't tell him that.  In fact, when he went off to college, he was majoring in business.  I simply continued to pray regarding this desire God had placed in my heart...never mentioning it to him.  Imagine my elation when he called me from college one day to say that he sensed God calling Him to the ministry!  I love, love, love working alongside my husband and serving the Lord in youth ministry.  It is such an immense joy to live life with our kids and watch them grow in their faith; to have such tight-knit relationships with our girls; to watch them use their gifts to serve the Lord and build the body. 

Whew!  That was fun!  I now need to tag 7 people.  I tag...

My husband

Mason Moments

living4Him

Starlady

momofgirls

Happily Ever After

Five Blessings

You're it!  Happy Weekend!

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• Apr. 9, 2007
Homeschool Blog Awards

I was surprised and completely humbled to learn that I've been nominated for the Homeschool Blog Awards! 

I was simply visiting a friend's blog and noticed that she had a link to nominations for the awards.  Imagine my shock as I scrolled through the list of nominees and discovered my blog on the list!  Thank you to the kind soul who so sweetly nominated me. 

I'm up for both the "Best Homeschool Mom" and "Live What You Believe" categories.  Voting begins today, April 9, and runs through Friday.  The link in my sidebar (at left) and below will take you to the voting page.  If you feel so inclined to vote for me or any of my blogging friends, it would be greatly appreciated!

And as voting kicks off, I just want to thank all those in the homeschool blogging community who have offered so much encouragement, inspiration, comic relief, and prayer support.  I count it a blessing to be part of such a community. 

Homeschool Blog Awards

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• Jan. 11, 2007
Ten Things...

My friend, Bo, over at the Lilliepad , compiled an interesting list of her likes and dislikes.  The catch was that they all had to begin with the same letter of the alphabet...in her case, "P."  I learned a lot about her through this simple exercise, and I thougt it would be a fun way to express myself. 

In order to obtain a letter, I visited Mary Beth who assigned me the letter "G."  And so, without further ado, I present my list:

Ten things I love that begin with the letter "G."

God’s Grace ~ "For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast." Ephesians 2:8-9

Guys ~ ...my guys, that is. God certainly blessed my life when he surrounded me with my amazing husband and precious boys. It’s a joy to love them and be loved by them.

Girlfriends ~ Spending time and heart-to-heart conversations with my cherished friends is one of my heart’s greatest delights.

Genealogy ~ I love to explore our ancestry and learn the stories behind the names. Afterall, it’s my story, too! I enjoy tracing God’s faithfulness through the generations...which by the way, is a freebie G.

Gentleness ~ Aren’t you just drawn to those women who have a spirit of gentleness about them? Women who clearly reflect a gentle and quiet spirit?

Giving ~ I s’pose giving is one of my love languages, I love, love, love to give gifts from the heart. And let’s face it...receiving gifts is always fun, too. :)

Genuineness ~ When I hear the word "genuine," my thoughts instantly go to my husband. He truly is the genuine article. He’s not one way here and another way there...what you see is what you get. And I’m so glad that I get to "see it" and "get it" everyday of our lives!

Gardens ~ Though I do not have what you would call a "green thumb," I greatly enjoy reaping the benefits of those who do. Strolling along garden paths and inhaling the sweet fragrance of flowers is truly a pleasure.

Gooseberry Patch ~ I love this company's cookbooks and catalogs!

Growth ~ I’m so glad that God is at work within me. As much as I’d like to be a more mature, well-studied follower of Him...an always submissive and respectful wife to my husband...an always patient, loving, and nurturing mama to our boys...God is working in me, day in and day out. And He promises that He will be faithful to complete the work He started in me! What joy!

Ten things I do not like that begin with the letter "G."

Gossip ~ It grieves my heart to hear gossip...especially among the family of God. I try to make it my practice to flee...quickly...when I hear it. But do I always? Sadly, no, but I’m thankful that this is an area where God has been working in my life.

Going to the dentist ~ ‘Nuff said.

Gross stuff ~ And let’s face it, as the only female in a house filled with guys, I’ve seen my share of it!

Gray hair ~ on me, anyhow. I’m too young for this...aren’t I?

Goat meat ~ Yep, I’ve tried it...at some sort of African feast we attended. It actually didn’t taste too bad, but the thought of it was more than I could take.

Grease spots ~ Why do they always find their way on to our favorite clothing?

Greed ~ I especially dislike it when I see it crop up in my life.

Grumbling ~ A lot of times I find myself correcting our boys for grumbling and complaining, only to realize that just moments before, I had been the one grumbling about this or that. These boys of ours are watching and listening...

Garbage ~ I love trash day when it all gets flung into the back of the garbage truck!

Garbanzo beans ~ Never have been able to stomach those little chickpeas!

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• Dec. 6, 2006
Life is Sweet

I couldn't contain my laughter when I stumbled across these pictures today.  That, coupled with the fact that this son has been living in this costume today, made me think that this would be a good time to share them with you.  Check out those poses! 

Ah, yes, life is sweet.  Hope these pictures bring a smile to your face!

Costume made by Grandma...

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• Oct. 31, 2006
This & That

The older boys have been studying Japan, so it seemed only right that we try our hands at origami.  Despite their initial resistance (lamenting that origami is for girls), they made a valiant effort and had a great time creating all kinds of things!  The above picture shows our two younger sons with their first creations:  a couple of penguins and a pig.  We did, however, proceed to make numerous other things...so many that we ran out of paper!  One son requested that we order some more origami paper...but don't tell him I told you. 

The next two pictures are from a little overnight getaway we took this past weekend.  I've mentioned that our youngest son is much like my husband...not only in looks, but in personality, too.  Both of them keep me laughing all the time.  I snapped these pictures over the weekend. 

What can I say?  Like father, like son.  'Nuff said. 

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• Oct. 7, 2006
Extreme Experience

Each Sunday evening, you will find our DVR set to record one of our family's favorite shows.  Our routine is predictable.  At the earliest possible opportunity (either late Sunday or Tuesday night), our oldest son will make the popcorn, we'll get comfortable on the couch, and we'll settle in to laugh and cry as the Extreme Makeover Home Edition once again awes some precious family with a home makeover. 

I've long dreamed of the Extreme Team coming close enough to our home where we could volunteer, participate, and celebrate!  So I was filled with great joy when  I learned last week that the team was in our area doing a home for a recent widow and her four children. 

It's been incredible to see the countless ways that the community has rallied around this family and this common goal.  Our community is family-oriented....tight...close.  It just blessed my heart to see all the volunteers who gave of their time and persevered through thunderstorms, hailstorms, and power outages.  We learned of the project too late to get in on any kind of volunteering (), but we were certainly not too late to participate as spectators! 

My mom and I excitedly took our boys out to the project for the big "reveal" yesterday.  Shortly after arriving, we were walking alongside the road when we heard several voices shout out, "Ty!"  As we looked to our right, there was TY walking across the grounds!  He turned around and gave his fans a wave!  That was certainly the highlight! 

In eager anticipation, we took our place along the road with 15,000 other spectators.  And we excitedly waited for that glorious moment when the limo would arrive with its sweet passengers.  Finally, after 4 long hours (and one too many  "how-much-longer"s from one of the boys) the moment we'd been waiting for arrived.  The limo pulled up, and in joyful unison, we all cried out, "Move that Bus!" 

I'm so thrilled that we could experience this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity!  I can't get this dear family off my mind.  I'm so thankful that their needs have been met with far more than they ever dreamed.  I'm so thankful that they are being cared for and loved.  It reminds me of the love that our gracious heavenly Father has for us.  It's so extreme...so above and beyond anything we ever imagined.  His grace is amazing. 

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• Sep. 25, 2006
The Kitten

Some friends of ours discovered an abandoned kitten last weekend.  They initially left the kitty where it was, thinking that the mama cat may return for her baby.  When she didn't, they took the little kitten into their home and have been lovingly providing for its needs. 

Our friends told our boys that they needed to come see a "surprise" at their house, so I took the boys to visit the little kitty last Monday.  They were pretty enamored with the little guy.  They enjoyed feeding it its bottle and watching it roll playfully over the top of a tennis ball.  As the cat is still unnamed, everyone refers to it by their name of choice...Moses, Nigel, Mowgli, Oliver, Wesley.  So with no further ado, I introduce to you...Jack. 

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• Apr. 13, 2006
My Marathon Man

He did it!  My husband has been training for a marathon since last fall, and this morning he ran 26 whole miles!  The boys and I are his biggest fans, and we were able to snap this picture when we drove out to find him (mid-course) and cheer him on this morning. 

The actual marathon is just 5 weeks away.  I'm so proud of him!  His perseverance and discipline have inspired and motivated our entire family.  No, I'll not be running any marathons anytime soon (or ever  ), but my husband's example did challenge me to set running goals for myself.  He even inspired our oldest son to run more regularly, and the two of them enjoy running together once a week.  Our oldest and I are currently training to run in a 2-mile race on the 4th of July.  While I'd like to think I'll beat him, I'm quite confident that he'll be the one waiting for me at the finish line. 

On an unrelated note, my husband and I began dating 18 years ago tonight!  It's been fun to reminisce throughout the day today, remembering how we'd both attended a friend's birthday party at a skating rink.  He'd requested the song, "In My Dreams" and asked me to couple skate with him. 

All my dreams came true...

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• Jan. 4, 2006
Priceless

* Star Wars 2-sided 500-piece puzzle in a collectible tin ~ $15.99

* 3 grilled cheese and a coupla leftover bowls of soup ~ $3.00

* 6-year-old boy practicing new harmonica ~ $2.75

* A couple Excedrin ~ $.50

* 5 hours together as a family ~ priceless

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• Dec. 5, 2005
Seven Sevens!

I've been tagged by my friend, RainyDayMichele!

Seven things to do before I die:

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