...seating arrangements...

April writing...

Today is MONDAY and I am EXCITED...*gasp* "Why?" you may ask am I so excted on a Monday???

Well it is because, Monday is a day closer to Thursday than Sunday was and two days closer to Thursday than Saturday was...and on Saturday, WE SOLD OUR COUCH and Thursday we PICK UP OUR NEW ONES!!! Yeah!!!

Granted, we weren't really excited to sell our couch, rather our sectional, as it was incredibly comfortable and nice and plush and great...but it took up TOO much space and it was not going to be able to fit in it's proposed future location...the basement, a.k.a. the Man Room, the Movie Theater, etc...It also blocked BOTH of the air/heat vents into the Living Room making that room slightly warmer or cooler than it should be in any given season! It also blocked, in my opinion the view of the perfectly wonderful HUGE picture window that we have in our LR. Boo. So it was TIME for it to go.

Thanks to Sarah for listing it for us...we got our buyer through that!!

Below I have taken a couple of pictures of our living room full of COUCH...haha!

See how it seems to cut off the full view of the picture window? I mean, sure...you can still see out of it...but ehh...it's just not the same...compared to what is pictured BELOW...the vast emptiness that is our current living room.

Now for the pictures of our empty yet spacious living room without the furniture...Pickle and Olive LOVED it...plenty of room to play and fight with each other :) Cory did well to enjoy it as well...as much as he could. In our little tiny video game chairs! :)

NOW...picture these...OUR NEW COUCHES in our Living room, come THIS Thursday afternoon. I can hardly contain myself. (apparentally since I have devoted one whole blog entry about it...yep, I am THAT bored at work! :)

Yep, there you will see ONE couch, ONE loveseat and ONE chair and ENDLESS seating arrangement possibilities!!!! I may just be even more excited about that aspect alone!!! With our old couch, we only had the option to place the couch as you saw it in the pictures due to it's size our LR layout and the couch layout itself. (being a sectional) It is a lovely light beige color with a dark wood trim accented on the bottom and lovely little buttons that give it a slightly modern charm. (Cory wasn't too fond of those though...I WAS! :) ) I will of course be swapping out the pillows unless they come in the solid matching color which may be a possibility.

*sigh*

I am just so pleased and ecstatic...the gals at small group tonight may not be so pleased, as we will be sitting on my dining room chairs instead of a comfy couch...but hey I'll throw out some yummy treats on the table...and next week it will be all better!!

Ok...I am pretty sure I am done talking about furniture now. *I am so simple* :)

Clomid Cycle 1....Bust.

April writing...

It no workey.

At least not the first round. Here's to wishing and hoping and praying that Cycle 2 works!!

(If you are at all completely lost as to what I am talking about, here's a little back story to bring you up to speed....http://2slicksgoodtimes.blogspot.com/2008/03/april-writing.html)

I just got off the phone with my RE (Reproductive Endocrinologist), Dr. McClamrock. He spoke with me about my bloodwork. Without going into detail, he said based on the bloodwork, my body did what it was supposed to, which is good, as that was a slight worry of mine. We then discussed the next plan...Cycle 2 of Clomid.

I will go into his office on Monday am (early...boo) to have another sonogram to check out the 'indoor' status...then I will start Clomid on a cycle day determined upon after he sees the sonogram. He did mention that he will boost my dosage up a bit...so here's to possibly more side effects.

Luckily during and after round one I only had a few mild hot flashes...although uncomfy, they were bearable. So hopefully by boosting my dose, it doesn't really boost the side effects too much.

The Doc said we will have to step it up a notch this go-around and possibly look into buying a couple OPK's (ovulation predictor kits) to boost the chances of well...doing it at the right time. :) As he said, "Being prepared and aware never hurts."

He also remembered that I was a little bit into my Weight Watchers journey when I saw him for my last sonogram, so he asked if I had lost any more weight since then. I told him, "Yes Sir! I am up to 22 pounds GONE!" He laughed and said, "Oh boy!! That can't hurt either!!" So, yeah for that...at least in the no-baby meantime I am dropping pounds! :)

So here we go...TTC (trying to conceive) Baby...Take 2.

PRAYERS are always appreciated! :)

Weight Loss UPDATE

Well, I am ALMOST THERE!!! Almost lost 23 pounds which would be my 10% goal!!! I am technically .8 lbs away...so JUST under a pound!! That shouldn't be a problem this week at ALL!!

I am TOTALLY excited and proud and giddy!!! AHH!! And right in time for tank top, shorts and bathing suit season. That will make it a little easier!!!

I am feeling alot of energy to do more around the house...my yard is worried cause it knows I am attacking it as soon as this nice weather hangs around for more than a day or two!

Here a run-down on the weight loss!!!

Update on my thoughts about His Story.

Cory Writing.......

I attended the His Story and as promised I went into it with a very positive attitude. Here is what I learned.

The production itself was very well written and very accurate. The acting was standard for people that don't act normally. While watching I realized that this play can't be classified as a bad play and it can't be compared to the play in California. It is so different from the play in California.

Our play in California was non-stop acting and singing. The play at Heritage is more of singing and then freeze frame type acting with a lot of narration. So I guess the play in California is like watching a movie and the play here in Maryland is like watching a powerpoint with narration and pictures flipping every so often. That is the best way to describe it, but as a good friend put it to me, "People are getting saved in both and that is what really matters." So good job to both churches for finding what works and who cares what I think and can or can't get over.

Until Next time.......

Stampin Up PAPER SALE

Now is the time!!
SAVE 30% on GREAT PAPER and SCRAPPIN' KITS!!!
ORDER FROM ME TODAY!!!

This paper in a scrapbook store would cost you 65-80 cents EACH!! With Stampin' Up get these GREAT designs at a lower cost to you AND they are double sided, for more fun with designing!!!

Regularly $9.95....Order today and you get them for $6.95
Page 1 & 2 of Desginer Series Paper - SAVE 30%

Page 3 and 4 of Desginer Series Paper - SAVE 30%


Regularly $19.95...Order today and you get them for $13.95!!!!!
Page 1 and 2 of Simply Scrappin' Kits- SAVE 30%

Page 3 and 4 of Simply Scrappin' Kits- SAVE 30%

Follow these links to our Stampin' Up Online Catalog!!!

Check out our other great products too!!!

The 3-Day Weekend :)

April writing btw...

So, it's Monday...the Monday after a 3-day weekend too. BOO!! Those are the hardest. Cory and I had a great Easter weekend with family and friends.

Friday, I was off for Good Friday (yippeee) So I slept in a little, then I got up and did some yard work. I have BIG plans to boost our curb appeal this spring and summer so I had to get the yard ready for that process. I can't wait either! I am kinda geeky in the sense that walking around Loews Garden Center makes me REALLY excited and happy!! haha!

Saturday, While Cory slept after getting home from work. I had Murder Mystery Theater practice with the kiddos involved. It was a very successful practice as there was alot of movement and distraction all around us with the His Story (our churchs' Easter production) gearing up for it's matinee performance. We had about 3 of our kids involved with that as well, so they were in and out of practice. Hopefully next week will be better. I think if I remember correctly, Cory and I just vegged on Saturday night. I made grilled pork chops and baked potatoes for dinner...YUMM!! After Cory left for work I did a little studying for my Sunday School class that was SUPPOSED to start on Sunday... :) *haha Jason!*

Sunday, EASTER! Cory got home from work and we got ready for church...we attended the packed-out 9 am service and then chatted with some people before Cory, Bekah and I left to go home to get ready for Easter Lunch with the family. At 2:00 pm we all gathered at John and Cristy's house (Cory's parents) for lunch. We had Ham, Baked Potatoes, Mac and Cheese, Veggies, Rolls, Salad...oh and thanks to Tammy we also enjoyed Brownies, Jello Eggs and Chocolate Covered Strawberries!!! YUUUUUUUMMMMMM! We chatted for a while, then Cory and I left with Hannah to run some errands and head to the church to see His Story (the above mentioned Easter production at church) It was nice...they did a good job. Pastor Cy, our Music Pastor (who also wrote the production) added some new scenes this year and I think they were all a nice touch. After that we (being Me, Cory, Hannah, Jason and Brittany) went to Pizza Hut for dinner. Then it was off to bed!!! yeah!! I was so tired. I have been exhausted lately.

AND before anyone says a THING about being pregnant...we don't know. I had my blood drawn on Wednesday and I talked to my doc's office today, they don't have any results back yet to see if the first round of Clomid did it's job and we were successful or not. So, we shall see. And make no mistake...Cory and I have been and still remain very patient and positive through this process. We know that God has bigger plans and he knows the perfect timing...so we wait :)

OK I think that about catches us up...btw...I see we have made it over 530 page views!!!! That is AWESOME!!! Now, let's see if we can boost the COMMENT ECONOMY around here!!! :) If you read, let us know...it really makes us feel good about ourselves :) haha!!

Talk to ya soon!

Just my inner thoughts put down on screen.

Cory Writing......

I am sitting here at work playing a game on the computer and my mind is racing. I was thinking about what I am going to do today, which is Easter Sunday. I know that I am going home after work and picking up my wife and going to church. I am then going with the rest of the family over to my parents house for Easter Lunch. I was then planning on going home to veg with my wife, until last night when my wife said she wanted to go see the Easter production that is happening at my church. Here is where Cory's mind goes nuts.

I am sitting here pondering whether being a part of great things ruins you from ever experiencing another great thing that is similar. Let me explain and hopefully you will understand.

When I was growing up in California our church put on this really great Easter production. I was apart of this production for 10 of the 16 years I lived in California. Not only do I have great memories from being involved, but I have great memories about how great the production was. Please don't take this as me bragging because I am well aware of the fact that it was 100% God that made this production great, because God knows we weren't great actors. The great memories from this production lead me to my problem now.

The Church I attend now has started to put on an Easter production. I am good friends with the music pastor that spends a great amount of time seeking God's will for the production. He also spends a great amount of time writing the script. While the production is saving a lot of lives for Christ, I still find myself comparing it to the production at my former Church. They are drastically different, thinking about it the only thing that is the same is the Crucifixion and Resurrection, but even those are portrayed differently.

My dilemma is ..... Am I a better person because I was a part of a great production in California or am I missing out on a blessing by not being able to get over how we did the production in California and enjoy the production here?

So I am letting everyone know right now. I am going to pray that God will help me watch the production later today with no preconceived ideas or notions. I will commit to enjoy this production for what this production has and not compare it. I do not want to live in the past, but enjoy the present and look forward to the future.

I will let you guys know how well I did and I will blog about the great things the production had to offer.

Thank you for letting me ramble. Hope this was thought provoking.

April's View...

*thanks Lindsey*

April writing...

I am taking a creative cue from my Weight Watchers buddy, Lindsey (who by the way is doing AMAZING on WW...congrats!!!) Today I am going to show you what it looks like at work for me. Lindsey made a good point on her page. Do you ever think as read someones blog or email, etc...and think, "I wonder what it looks like where this person is typing..." Well...I hadn't thought about it till I read Lindseys blog, but she is right...I HAVE thought that.

So, here is WORK...from April's point of view!

For those that don't know...I work in Columbia, MD at an Architecture and Interior Design firm. I work with some pretty cool people, and I really enjoy my job! I love the fact that I have TWO windows and a HUGE desk. I am also basically sitting in private...even though I am the receptionist. So that is nice too.

Here is what it looks like when you first walk into our office. That big desk is ALL me...Yep, little ol' me sits behind that massive thing! It's a little messy with some extra boxes right now...but that is because I just cleaned out or coat closest (that had like 10 years worth of crap in there!) I also have been completely re-filing and chronologically ordering about 10 years worth of files too...so that is some leftover dead files stuff to the left by the door. That door belongs to the book-keepers office. That used to be Debbie, but she is gone now. Soon we will have another new person joining us. (You can read about why she left here...http://2slicksgoodtimes.blogspot.com/2008/02/i-guess-i-should-say.html)

Next we have the view from behind my desk...and this is of course with me standing up...other wise, all I really see is the wall I sit behind! haha!

And this is what I stare at 6 hours a day. And yes, it is ALWAYS that nice and tidy. Otherwise I would go crazy. I like a clean workspace...and apparentally so do my bosses. They just love how organized I am...even though they do tease me for it! :)


This is just slightly left of where I sit everyday...See how close I am to a window! Which is great actually cause we have alot of freezing people in our office and they are always PUMPING the heat, so I have my window cracked almost at all times...thank heavens! I would probably roast to death. Oh and see all my plant action...LOVE IT. Especially this one....

It's my Ficus Bonsai. Oh yeah, it is that cool!

So t hat is basically it. My desk...my world for 6 hours a day, 5 days a week. And I love it. It still hasn't quite gotten my touch, cause I keep forgetting to bring in pictures of my pups and hubby and all that, but I will get there!!! So....where do you work???

*twitch*

April *twitch* writing...

So today has be NUTS...and when I *twitch* say nuts, I mean CRA*twitch*ZY!! So it started when I came in this *twitch* morning. You see, how things work in my office, *twitch* since I am the receptionist...I am also the *twitch* catch-all for typing, transmittals, *twitch* faxing, mailing, etc. So today...my *twitch* desk was full of stuff when I first got in!

I had a total of 5 DHL orders to place...which *twitch* take about 2 minutes each if not already packaged, *twitch* about 6-10 minutes each if they aren't...which these weren’t. Then I had specs to type...and not just *twitch* ones with a few corrections, but like pages full of typing to add. (*note...it was midway through this job that the phones cut out, YEAH! But with them went the internet. So my *twitch* periodic blog and myspace comment checks were non-existent.) So after about an hour of typing specification *twitch* information about toilets and urinals and sinks, that job was *twitch* completed. Then onto preparing the mailout of about two dozen invoices and another dozen bills...*twitch*, which really isn't a lot it's just busy work that I don't truly enjoy first thing in the morning. I kinda like to ease into *twitch* it. (I know, I sound work-spoiled, but I am, and I will *twitch* admit it.) I completed the busy work and finally the phones and internet *twitch* were back up and running. YEAH, well at least about the internet!!! Just in time for an email, blog and myspace check before lunchtime. And boy did the phones *twitch* make up for the 35 minute break they had...it was *twitch* ringing off the hook. If only I knew this would be a foreshadowing taste of what was to become my *twitch* afternoon.

I finally decided after these jobs were completed and the phones calmed down...that it was *twitch* it was time for lunch. Which for me, meant a trip to Target to get some *twitch* stuff to prepare for the St. Patrick's Day party tonight. *twitch* I happily left the office knowing that for sure Target would cheer me up...as always...and it did. I fully enjoyed my lunchtime break at Target. So then I returned to work...

Then the real *twitch* fun began. Our internet went down...again...and the phones began to develop a mind of their own. The phone would ring, *twitch* I would answer it...and it would sound like a *twitch* fax machine fighting with a dying cat. Literally. I soon realized that if I hung up the line *twitch* after realizing that it was not a real call, that it would only ring right back to me. *twitch* *twitch* *twitch* After 5 minutes of this...I got smarter than the dumb phone...and when I would pick up the line, I would immediately put it on hold. This worked for *twitch* about 10 minutes. Then *twitch* all H-E-DOUBLE HOCKEY STICKS broke loose. You see, *twitch* we have multiple lines, but I rarely see them all light up at the *twitch* same time. It was literally pandemonium. *twitch* The phone would ring and *twitch* ring and ring and *twitch* ring and no matter how quickly I answered (no one was on the other end by the way) they just kept coming in. Lines I have never *twitch* seen light up were lighting up like Las Vegas at night!!! This continues for hmmm…I dunno...FOREVER (in actuality probably only like 4 minutes) and during this oh so very frustrating time, I missed a page by Gary *twitch* our systems administrator that says, "Verizon is testing the lines, so don't answer the phones for about 15 minutes." Someone finally lovingly clued me in to this...and I stopped answering the incessant ringing *twitch* phone.

*SIGH*

It got worse. For the next *twitch* 30....I repeat....30 minutes...the phones just RANG. *twitch* and there was nothing I could do about it, but listen to it. It was torture...I began thinking of secrets that I could tell my *twitch* captors about family members and government secrets...because I felt as if I was being tortured for information. Trust this...*twitch* if I get captured by any one, ever...and they need a way to torture me...a ringing phone will work quite *twitch* nicely. And please believe me...the information will be ALL theirs.

*silence*

It has ended...the phones ceased to ring....my twitching subsided to a dull neck pain...was this the end?? Had the problem been solved? Had I given my captors enough information for them to return me to my normal state of being, happily plugging away at mailouts and dhl orders???

*silence*

I think so. I think it is done...and as I sit completing what has become my most tortured moment in blogging history...I reflect on the feelings I had...the thoughts I shared with only myself thinking, "I never had the chance to say this..."

I love you all...if I don't say it enough I should...I have learned so much through this trial...not to take every day so seriously, but to enjoy life to the fullest...because...I don't know when the phone will ring again. And then, it will be over for me. So until then, I will leave nothing unsaid, no words un-spoken.

I am a new woman.

*ring, ring*

*twitch*

"NOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!*

My High Speed Pursuit...

*ok well, not MY high speed pursuit, but I was nearly involved :)

April writing by the way...
Not to be confused with the one of us who it would be more likely to be involved in a high speed pursuit! :)

So I am driving to work today...listening to the band 'Mercy Me' via CD, just enjoying the morning. I usually use my cruise control all the way to work, because I am basically on 100 for 15 minutes of the ride to work. At one point I glanced in my rear view mirror to see if there were any cars coming up behind me, because there are usually the few jerko's who just HAVE to pass you going 90, and I am a friendly morning driver, so I usually get over for them. Well, this morning seemed no different. When I looked in the mirror I noticed a Black either Durango or Trailblazer...I am no car expert...coming up VERY fast towards me! I think, 'This jerko-joker isn't even slowing down till I get over, I better get a move on it now!' Just then I look to my right (as I am in the fast lane) and there is a car there, so I speed up a bit to get over in front of him but I meet up with the tail end of another car, so I had to wait another second. I looked up front to wait till that car picked up some speed and then I put on my blinker and went to get over.

(Now mind you, this is literally all in the span of maybe 15-20 seconds...)
Just as I looked to my right I see "Black Durango-Blazer Jerko-Man" coming up RIGHT next to my car. And when I say RIGHT next to me, I mean, if it had been a sedan or another smaller vehicle, for sure we would have been playing patty-cake with our side-view mirrors. I yell, "WOAH!!!!" and quickly jerk my car to the left (past the rumble strips and OFF the road mind you) to let this guy come over...as if I had a choice! Just then I look in my rear-view mirror to see if anyone else behind me had been road-tortured by this jerk, only to see about 9 patrol cars all with lights on and sirens blaring! (I just NOW hear them!!!) WOW...so this guy isn't just a jerk-driver...he is running from the cops!!!

Once I get my wits about me, and get myself back on the road...in the slow lane...haha, I decided to call the one person I knew could find out what in the world was going on! Cory. I quickly speed-dialed my already sleeping hubby. (he had just gotten off work at 7:45 am) When he answered, I said "WOAH, you have got to tell me what in the world is going on out here. I just got like ran off the road by this jerk being chased by 9 AA Cty patrol cars and a couple un-marked!!!" He was a bit groggy, but got up to get his radio. We then sat and listened to the pursuit...by the time he got the radio and got it turned on, they were already on 32 heading towards 178. (That is, in real driving time, about 10-12 minutes from the spot they were just at, like 2 minutes ago!) They were FLYING!!!

I finally got to work and had to hang up with Cory, who then said..."Well, now you got me interested, (like I pulled his arm!) so I will listen and call you back with what happens. About 25 minutes later I called him to see what was up. He said it had just ended. They had chased him all the way to DC and then they had to shut down the chase. (As AA Cty couldn't cross into that territory, so DC police took over.) Well, then the genius turns around and LEAVES DC, so AA Cty picked up the chase again. He ended up crashing in a ditch (like dumb people who run from the cops normally do) and he bailed out on foot. We caught him though. BOO YAH!!!

Turns out he robbed a convenience store or gas station with a gun, which is how this whole debacle began. WOW! To think that my poor car was almost scarred with the markings of a high speed police pursuit...not that I would have happy about that, but it would have been a better car story than say me hitting a shopping cart while pulling out of my spot at the grocery store!

Anywho...I am all good. Had a cool ride to work and now I am enjoying my not so busy day at work with all my windows open!!! Ahhhh, isn't life grand? :)

MOO.com

April writing...

Oh heavens. I have just run across THE CUTEST site. Seriously, I can hardly contain myself.

It's called...Moo.com (and trust me, this is no reference to my childhood love of cows. In fact, I can't seem to find any reason for them referring to their company as "Moo" but I am loving it.)

You can take your pictures and upload them onto Postcards, Mini-Cards (my personal favorite), Stickers and more!

I am really thinking that it woudl be a SUPER cute idea to use my Heartscape Design logo for the frontside of a Mini-card with my business information on the reverse. As apposed to boring old business cards! How much CUTER would that be??? AHHH!!!

And what is even CUTER...is that they sell these Mini-Card holders too.

THEN...there are the stickers. I am thinking about making a sticker book for each of my Neices and Nephew. They love to make funny faces and have me take pictures...who am I kidding I love it too!!! So I think it would be SUPER cute to take all thier funny face pictures and put them on stickers for them to have fun with! AHHHHH!

*in case you haven't figured it out...* I am bubbling with JOY. This is just TOO STINKING CUTE! AHHHH!

Randy Pausch

April writing...

There has been an email circulating referencing a "Last Lecture" given by Professor Randy Pausch from Carnegie Mellon University who is dying from Pancreatic Cancer. I have only watched the 'shortened' version (from the Oprah show) since I am at work and the longer version is near 76 minutes+.

Professor Pausch talks about achieving childhood dreams and helping others acheive thier dreams as well. Some of my favorite quotes from the Lecture goes as follows:

"Experience is what you get, when you don't get what you want."
"Brick walls in life are there for a reason, [not to keep you out] but to let us proove how badly we want things."

I have more to watch...but I don't have time to finish it at work now, I will have to finish it later...but...it is really interesting. If you wish to watch...here you go:



Let me know your thoughts :)

Talk about r a n d o m...

April writing...
I know I have talked about the lady at work who has come to be known as "divorce lady" amongst some of the friends. Well, over the past three weeks her relationship with our office and some other employees has become rocky at best. She resigned her position and ever since our bosses have been playing accounting catch up!

Well today, Stuart...one of the bosses approaced my desk and said he had a "curve ball" for me and wanted to see what I thought. He then proceeded to ask me how I felt about stepping into the position of bookeeper for the company. (WOAH!) What???

I said, "Well, I am very honored by you thinking of me...however you do know that I don't have any bookeeping experience, right?" Of course he did know, he has afterall seen my resume when I was hired as the receptionist in October. He went on to say that he feels that the job is really just about 80% organization and 20% numbers and working with the computer. He also mentioned that he was going to run it by our outside accountants...and for all he knows, they may say that it isn't a good idea, and he should rather hire someone with bookeeping experience. But he wanted to see if there would even be any interest on my part first. He said that he would understand if I wanted to stay in my position where there was less stress etc. And he also said that with my organization skills I could easily do that job and still stay within my 30 hours.
So, I told him that I would talk it over with the husband and let him know what was decided on my part. And I don't know.

I mean part of my would like the pay increase to pay down some debt and finish jobs around the house and the other part of me really likes my easy job with great pay and no stress. Also, we are trying to get pregnant and I would hate to step into a position only to get pregnant and leave in 9 months...because I do plan on being a stay-at-home Mom after children. I guess Cory and I will just have to bat around the pro's and con's tonight.

I was just really taken back because I haven't ever had someone in my job, especially a boss, see my potential and really boost me up to think enough of me to put me in such an important position.

haha...we shall see what the decision is soon enough...although I think I am already leaning towards staying where I am. What are your thoughts??

Something to make you go...... HMMMMMMMMMM

Cory writing.........

On Friday March 7, 2008 I worked my secondary (off-duty job) gig at Friday’s Restaurant at Arundel Mills. I work at this restaurant about 2-3 times a month and this is the first time that I remember something like this happening. I was standing at the front door just observing the comings and goings of the restaurant and I had a guy approach me as he was leaving. As he walked by he said, “Thank you for wearing that badge sir and you be safe.” It totally caught me off guard and I quickly said, “your welcome and thank you.”

Let me explain to you why this caught me off guard. I have been working at this restaurant since it has been open and I have heard stupid comments and goofy questions day in and day out. I have never had someone that wasn’t police or significant other of police, thank me for wearing the badge or doing what I do. This I find very sad, not that I do this job for those things, but they are nice every once and awhile.

I consider the Police Officers of our Great Country to be the unacknowledged heroes. When most people think of a hero the first thing that comes to people’s minds are our U.S. Military or Firemen. While these guys deserve that title I also want people to realize that Police Officer’ deserve this title also. A lot of the times we don’t get this title because we are there when you don’t want us to be and never there quick enough when you need us.

I am not writing this because I am having a pity party. I am telling you this because I want to encourage you to be that guy that makes a police officer’s day. Just a quick Thank You for wearing the badge or doing what you do is sufficient. I don’t want you to do this to the officer that has you pulled over or is taking a report for you. Tell the officer that is working his second or third job at the restaurant that you are eating at, or the officer that is standing in line with you hoping that he will be able to eat before running off to handle the next call.
This guy really made my day a whole lot better for just being thankful and verbalizing it to me. It didn’t cost him a thing. Just think about this the next time you see a hero.

While I sit waiting.....

Cory Writing.....

While I am sitting here waiting for my wife to make my dinner I have decided to blog. I hear the yells from all you women out there....... GO MAKE YOUR OWN DINNER YOU BUM. My wife told me that she would make it if I just let her finish the bathroom, so get out of my Kool-Aid.

OK on to why I am blogging. I have really been encouraged lately. God has recently laid on my heart to start listening to Christian Music and only Christian Music for awhile. I don't know how long, but I do know that I am really enjoying it and I am starting to see it have an affect on my attitude and outlook towards all aspects of life.

I have found this really great song by Jeremy Camp called "This Man". Here is the video




Another thing I would like to share with you that has encouraged me is the great things that are happening at my Church. I received an email from our Lead Pastor Steve Hall and he wanted to share some good news because he was tired of all the bad news in the world. His email follows.

Dear HCC Family,

I get so tired of listening to bad news. Give your self permission to simply smile and be proud of the good stuff that's going on in your church.

A couple dozen students committed their lives to Christ at the annual Winterfest retreat in early February. Two of them testified in church.
The Men's Ministry started off the year with great attendance at their monthly breakfast (45) and then followed that up with more than 65 attending the second breakfast.
The Men's Ministry also facilitated the first annual Sportsman's Banquet with 250 in attendance and 35 people committing their lives to Christ.
The monthly Christian concert night is hitting record attendance above 100, and reports of great times of good family fun.
The Children's Ministry just pulled off another incentive carnival for Hilltop elementary with rave reviews from the school staff.
SALT groups are reporting great results from studying the HCC sponsored Biblical finance curriculum.
250 people attended the special Sunday evening service related to the Holy Spirit and over 100 people filled the altar committing to go deeper by being immersed or baptized in the Holy Spirit.
The Ministry to the Military continues to receive beautiful notes from families and soldiers regarding the encouragement their "Care Packages" give.
The Cup of Cold Water ministry team, were blessed recently when they partnered with Pastor Jason and our Verb Student Ministries to meet the yard work needs of some senior citizens.
Recently a couple families gave large financial donations specifically to help HCC become that social center for God's kindness that I have been talking about.
The pastor of the church in Puerto Rico that we are helping pay off their debt; has never been able to afford taking his wife and daughter to the Church of God General Assembly that occurs every two years in the states. Our Ladies Ministry took this need on and raised money to send his wife and daughter with him this August. I recently asked Pastor Diego how much it would cost for his family to travel with him and he replied that it would be $1783.00 for air fare, hotel and food. I then asked Joe Lloyd our CFFO for a report as to how much the ladies had raised; they raised $1783.00.

If this was Sunday morning we would all clap right now, but don't let that stop you.

By the way, all the 11am attendees think the 9am attendees won't remember to set their clocks ahead this Sunday, so the 11am service will be full. Some say the timing of Daylight Savings change is all a His Story conspiracy to get people to show up late Sunday and stay after the 11am service to help break down the Chancel for the Easter production. I'm just telling you what I heard.

Something I know to be true is that March 5, all day is dedicated to prayer and fasting for His Story.

I love you, may the peace of God rule your heart and mind, Pastor Steve

I hope these two thinks help encourage you and make your weekend go a little smoother. Keep your eyes open for how God wants you to bless someone else.

Till next time. Peace, Love, and Hair Grease.

A letter to the past and Patrick Swayze

Let me first start off by saying I am most def on my A-Blogging-Game lately! :) It's really fun actually. And even though it seems (at least by the comments...Aheeemmm *hint hint*) that there are only a few people reading this, it is nice to get thoughts out on paper, albeit digital paper! :)
So let's carry on...I was driving home last evening from work and tuned my radio to our local radio station WPOC 93.1. Now, I don't too often listen to the country station anymore, cause I just have other favorites...I am still FINE with country my hear boy Cory! :) Anyways, they were getting ready to play a song by Brad Paisley titled, "Letter to Me." (you can watch the music video by clicking on the song title!) Now I hadn't heard this song before so I decided to stick around and listen and I was pleasantly surprised and inspired. Here, read the lyrics and maybe you can see why I like it so much...

"If I could write a letter to me. And send it back in time to myself at 17.
First I'd prove it's me by saying look under your bed.
There's a Skoal can and a Playboy no one else would know you hid.
And then I'd say I know it's tough. When you break up after seven months.
And yeah I know you really liked her and it just don't seem fair.
All I can say is pain like that is fast and it's rare.
And oh you got so much going for you, going right.
But I know at 17 it's hard to see past Friday night. She wasn't right for you.
And still you feel like there's a knife sticking out of your back.
And you're wondering if you'll survive. You'll make it through this and you'll see.
You're still around to write this letter to me.

At the stop sign at Tomlinson and Eighth.
Always stop completely don't just tap your breaks.
And when you get a date with Bridgett make sure the tank is full.
On second thought forget it that one turns out kinda cool.
Each and every time you have a fight. Just assume you're wrong and dad is right.
And you really should thank Mrs. Brinkman. She spent so much extra time.
It's like she sees the diamond underneath. And she's just polishin' you 'til you shine.

And oh you got so much going for you, going right.
But I know at 17 it's hard to see past Friday night.
Tonight's the bonfire rally. But you're staying home instead because if you fail Algebra,
Mom and dad will kill you dead. Trust me you'll squeak by and get a C.
And you're still around to write this letter to me.

You've got so much up ahead. You'll make new friends.
You should see your kids and wife. And I'd end by saying have no fear.
These are nowhere near the best years of your life.
I guess I'll see you in the mirror. When you're a grown man.
P.S. go hug Aunt Rita every chance you can.

And oh you got so much going for you, going right.
But I know at 17 it's hard to see past Friday night.
I wish you'd study Spanish.
I wish you'd take a typing class.
I wish you wouldn't worry, let it be.
I'd say have a little faith and you'll see.
If I could write a letter to me.
To me."

Hmmmm. So I thought to myself I wonder what I would say if I could write a letter to me at 17. I mean, first of all what could I remember to say about activities that impacted me to deeply then that now see simple and funny and not worth all the pain it caused then. So, that's where my thoughts are...and I think I am going to try and write a letter to me at 17. I may need to dive back into the good old journal and see where I was then...haha. I know I was a Senior in HS and with a boyfriend of 5 years...so...hmmm, we shall see. Maybe, if it's not too personal, I will post it. Anyone else up for the challenge??

...In other news...(I sound so news-anchor-like!) Patrick Swayze has apparentally been given 5 weeks to live after being diagnosed with Pancreatic Cancer. This saddens me. Not neccisarily cause he is some GREAT OUTSTANDING actor...but because of the few good pieces he HAS done. ***(I had previously written this next part thinking, mistakenly that Patrick and Goldie Hahn were together...however I was wrong to think that. Apparentally I am among the many that consuse him and Kurt Russell. MY BAD. I seem to remember doing this before too. SO by saying all that, it makes the next porition of my blog not make any sense, but I figured I would leave in my human error as I may not be the only one who thinks this!) And too...I am sad for Goldie (look at me talking about Goldie Hahn like I know her...haha!) Can you imagine losing your partner after SO many years, just out of the blue like that. Wow. Sad.

Well, in his honor I will be posting a few of my fav clips.

I wasn't able to find the great "Nobody Puts Baby In a Corner" clip from the movie, Dirty Dancing, so here's the next best thing..."I've Had the Time of My Life."

And honoring Patrick Swayze (and by default Chris Farley) wouldn't be the same without the clip from this famous SNL sketch...(Now I can't embed this video because apparentaly there is some kind of internet deatch grip on the "Chippendales Dance Off" video from SNL...GESH!) So here's the link to go view the video!
http://www.evtv1.com/player.aspx?itemnum=1422

Alright, that's enough fun for now! I am off to kinda do some work! Later Gators!

Why I am ready for Spring & Summer...

Firgured I would blog again...I am TOTALLY into this blogging thing. It's like online journaling. And EVERYONE can read it. Scary!

Reasons why I am looking forward to SPRING & SUMMER...(finally!)

Reason #1: Flip flops. Yep, that's right. It isn't so much that I am a FLIP FLOP PERSON...it's just the FREE TOES aspect. When you can paint your toesies cute colors and show them off the the slightly warmer world with no worries of frostbite or dry feet. This means that I may be able to fit into some cute little spring dresses too that I never wore before due to size restrictions...and what goes better with spring dresses other than FLIP FLOPS!!?? That also means I will have to start taking better care of my feet. Which begs me to ask the question...does anyone ELSE find it harder and harder to take care of your feet the older you get? It's crazy really. It seems...the HARDER I try the worse they get. But if I leave them alone they are just NORMAL feet. I want outstandingly nice soft feet. But I fear, that is a dream that must go out to the side of the road with last years flip flop colors. :(

Oh and by the way, for any VERB friends reading this out there...I should mention...We at VERB refer to Flip flops as "Flips" oh wait, or was it "Flops"? Either way...we found a special way to spice it up!!

Reason #2: My Back & Front Yard Gardens. I have SUCH a big DREAM for my yard. And it seems that every year I get a little closer to how I want it to look. I want FULLNESS and GREEN and lots of COLORS. I don't mind the constant watering and the upkeep...plus year I can use my outdoor activity in the yard as ACTIVITY points (nice bonus!) I LOVE this one...the planter pic shown here. It is just what I like. Some full green with an array of colors...low to the ground and it looks easily maintanable. Is that so much to ask? Oh gesh...my GOAL is to at LEAST get my front and side planters (the ones seen by the road) to my liking this year! Oh, and it would be nice for them to survive the winter too!!

Reason #3: Mom and Dad's backyard pool! I can't wait to go swimming...and if I don't get pregnant between now and then I will also be a smaller swimmer..which makes enjoying those BATHING suits a little easier!! (and that's saying something!) I hope to convince mom and dad to let me help them landscape around the pool this year. I think that it will really help to make it look very nice and inviting! Dad was a little anal about his pool last year...understandably so. Alot of TIME and MONEY went into this porject and he wants to take care of it! We just hope some of that will disipate this year?!?! (Here's hoping!!) I also can't wait to get Olive in the water this Summer...She is a TRIP in or around water!

See my past blog about why this will be so fun here: (http://2slicksgoodtimes.blogspot.com/2007/12/we-heard-that-olive-liked-water.html)

WOW, I am sure that I have many more...but it is time for me to go home...maybe I will add more. My other BLOGGING friends (and for those of you who don't blog..hint, hint...BRITTANY...you should start!)...tell me what you are looking forward to!!

Almost to 10%

April writing...
Almost to 10% - March 5, 2008
I really can't believe that I have made it THIS far in such a short amount of time!! To think that about two months ago I was 18 pounds heavier and what feels like lazier and less driven. Not these days!! Man I have such a huge amount of energy and a desire to DO more and DO different things with my life!! I want to send a SPECIAL shout out to some special people!
First and foremost...my Husband, Cory Jacob. Without you sweetie I would not be doing so well. You with your suttle compliments and humorous outlook on this process, you have helped me tremendiously!!! I LOVE you for that...and one day you will have a SKINNIER me to hug and less of my ARMS to squeeze. *wink wink*
Secondly, My Brittany. I know that she has been going through so much lately, but yet she still finds it in her heart to support and encourage me with every pound lost! Thank you and I can't wait to either be your little Butter-Bean's skinner Auntie or Pregnant Auntie! :)
Thirdly...My TT. Terri you have been amazing as well. Thanks for all your words of encouragment and above all thanks for INSPIRING me daily. Girl you may be nearing 8 months pregnant but your DRIVE and your AMBITION makes me want to be a better person. And if that means losing more weight to accomplish this things then consider yourself a STRONG driving force in my life!
Fourth...My sisters. Thanks to Bekah who always finds time to comment back (via text) and give me a big YEAH for losing each week and I am sure she would do the same even if I didn't lose one week! Thanks to Sarah for being there all day at work everyday to toss ideas back and forth about how we can BOTH eat better and take better care of ourselves for many years to come!
GOSH, there really are SO many more...but a big THANKS to Mom...I know she went through alot last fall but through that trial I found my will to beome a healthier person and for both her just being here and enduring that process with such vigor...THANK YOU!
I love you all...and this has been such an amazing process for me, and I can't wait to continue. I even feel that if Cory and I get pregnant before this process is complete..I am a better person for making these changes now!!!

You can read this and follow my weight loss process and more at
http://www.freewebs.com/wwslickslady08/index.htm

Clomid...the baby making drug...and HUGS :)

April writing...

I did it! I just took my first days dose of Clomid. *fingers crossed* I am absolutely hoping that this does the trick. In a nutshell for those that may be unsure what the Clomid will do for my is basically trick my brain into thinking that I haven't produced any 'eggs' so it will stimulate growth of the current eggs and increase growth of new eggs thereby increasing the odds of a pregnancy!! *sheeewww* There are a couple of possible side effects that I am hoping to miss out on...Hot flashes, Nausea, Dizziness, Headache and Mood changes. Yeah, I could do without those, however I will say...if we get pregnant...no wait, WHEN we get pregnant...it will be completely worth it!!

I don't know...it's strange really. It seems that lately I have really felt the urgency of wanting a baby now. Maybe it is because we have been looking into it a little more...maybe it's due to the fact that two of my best friends are currently pregnant. (one has even threatened that if she doesn't get a pic of the three of us pregnant at the same time, she and her unborn peanut will be very unhappy :) haha!) I am just incredibly excited about the prospect of a baby. I am also just so pleased that I set forth a goal to lose weight on Jan. 2nd of this year and so far I have lost 16.4 pounds! Which I also think will help out tremendiously with this whole process. I am just really excited overall!!!

Well, here is a little something to brighten your day. When I think about the importance and greatness of a hug...the feeling you get when you get a big warm hug from a loved one or great friend. It jus warms every part of you. I think hugs are great...but don't do it all too often cause some people just put up this "no hug" barrier...and I am not one to push the envelope. I do however constantly bug Cory for hugs...and if I am not done I make him hold on longer!!! :) Anywho...just thought that could preface a little why I LOVE this video!! I want hugs like this!! :)

till next time...