This world is just way too small. The other day, while I was waiting to go into surgery, the nurse and I were talking. She was quite a chatting young woman, and I really was just doing my part to be nice. The topic of school came up, then church. Come to find out, her husband is related to a member of our congregation. So, we discussed that commonality for a while. Next, I find out that her dad is a relative of MY dad's. Now, she is telling everyone around that we are cousins (at least 6 times removed!). By now, I'm the most important person there - well, actually I was the ONLY person waiting there - but now we had even more to keep us talking. It was a nice diversion for the time spent waiting, but it reminded me once again, that small communities as well as this world, tie us all together in one fashion or another.
So - be careful who you are not nice too - it's probably someone you're kin to down the line.

Have a good evening!

Yesterday, I had a small, outpatient surgery. Dana came home to keep an eye on us, which I appreciate, and all went well. I am on my way back to normal, but will try to milk the pampering I am receiving for a day or two - :) Not what I was planning to do over the holidays, but am most glad it is behind me.

Small town hospitals don't always get the credit they deserve in terms of care, but over the past few days, I've been impressed with the care and concern given me by doctors, nurses, and administrative folks at our little local hospital. I was just another procedure, and they could've just passed me through, but each and every one I came into contact with were very professional and kind; not in a hurry to just pass me through. It was a nice experience overall, all things considered.

Well, I'm about to get sleepy again, so I'll close. :)

Happy Christmas Eve! We are here at Gregg and Erin's , the girls in the kitchen, Andy and Gregg watching tv. We had a lovely lunch at Carabba's, and then it was back here. Worship was different for us old time Church of Christers, and we had lots of discussion about it. Don't really get into it all that much, but it was interesting... felt very "worldly."

We rode around last night and looked at some of Houston's grandest homes. Cannot imagine living in such a large scale, but it was nice to see. I guess they have the same worries we all do, just on a different level.

Well, the girls are calling. I guess I'd better get in there. I'm obviously missing something big!

Merry Christmas!

One of my favorite Christmas songs is "Away in a Manger." I always loved it for its simplicity, but really came to count it among my favorites when Dana was about 3.

I was teaching in Sealy, and every day, I took Erin and her with me to a lady who kept them in her home not far from the school. One day, Dana said, "Look Mommy, it's Jesus." I tried to see what she was talking about, but couldn't figure it out. The next day, as we approached that area, I said, "Dana, do you see Jesus again today?" and she said Yes. The only thing around was a bill-board with the picture of a man wearing a welding helmet and holding a torch. She said, "See Mom, it's Jesus," and started singing "Away in a Manger." I tried to get her to tell me how that was Jesus, and why she was singing that song, and she said that it was the "Away in a Manger" picture. So that's what we called it, "The Away in a Manger" billboard.

Through all these years, we still see that billboard. Its picture is hardly visible now, and I'm sure the business it advertized is long gone. But for Dana, Erin and me, on the way to school everyday, it was our picture of Jesus, and a chance to sing a wonderful song.

"Well - Amy Young, or used to be!"

That is how I was greeted this morning when I came out of the doctor's office into his waiting room. A sister of a life-long friend was waiting her turn to go in for her appointment, and it surprised her to see me come through the door. We chatted and exchanged well-wishes to each other's families, and then I left. I went about my chores for the day, took a nice nap, and then hit the blogs.

Now I'm thinking about Amy Young used-to-be. Before college. Andy. Dana and Erin. Tulsa. All God's people who have come and gone through my life all those in years. Amy Young used-to-be was a mousy, shy little thing; skinny with dirty knees and tangled hair. She didn't make much of an impression on anyone, and that was just fine with her. Most of the people who knew me then probably keep me in that little box, and would not even know me now. It's funny to think about, actually - to look back at Amy Young used-to-be, and to see how much she's changed.

At the doctor's office today, in some of those long waiting moments you have to endure, I was looking at a poster about menopause. The words "Change of Life" jumped out at me like the title of the movie "Cast Away." I think I even read them aloud a few times. The meaning had nothing to do with the way I'd always read it or heard it; at 51, my life IS changing daily. Each day takes me farther and farther away from Amy Young used-to-be.

Who knew I'd have so much to think about when I got up this morning -

Have a good evening!

I've been very sad the past couple of days... found out some bad news about a couple of my little girls from school, and the life they've been dealt kinda makes me want to scream and cry.

Andy and I worked very hard to provide good, stable lives for Dana and Erin. We "did all the right stuff" - church, "good" friends, culture, that kind of thing. We made sure they were happy and safe and free from most cares of the world. I used to tell them that God had given them to us to raise for Him, and that I was going to do my best to do it right. Praise God, they made it through so far without too much to deal with. These two little ones are not enjoying the life they deserve - and I am so angry and sad I want to say to God that His little ones don't need to face a life so hard at such a young age. I want to "fix" it and yet it is beyond my reach other than to love them and pray that they will grow into women who can face adversity and come out stronger. It kind of puts all the silly things I deal with into perspective and humbles me. And it makes me SO thankful for the care and protection my own daughters have received to this point.

I know that God's Will will be done, and that He knows the outcome of all this, so I give them to Him for His care.

When my mom died, and my sister and nephew moved to California, my father in law told us they'd love us to move back over to the Houston area to be closer to family. We did give it some thought, but when all was considered, we decided to stay where we are for now.
You see, my dear father in law was under the assumption that we were just here for my "family" and that since they were gone, there would be nothing here to hold us. I guess to some, that would make all sorts of sense, but there is a flaw in that logic.

Even though my biological family no longer live in this area, my family is alive and well. We are never lacking for someone to call or see or check in on, and the bond we have through Christ ties us like no other. Sure, lots of times we miss everyone in Houston, and we're looking forward to a big-old family Christmas, but our church family keeps us focused and happy here.

Tonight, we're getting together with some our brothers and sisters to watch a movie and eat together. I'm so greatful to God for providing this support system to us, and I only hope I mean as much to them as they mean to me.

Have a wonderful night. Sweet dreams.

When Andy and I decided to build our home, the lot we selected had no trees on it - not even a mesquite! In a way, it was like a blank painting canvas; ours to do as we pleased. We made some mistakes; like the little tiny tree Carl broke one night, and the beautiful loquat we had to cut down because it got too big and too near the house. But we made some wonderful choices too.

Right now, I live in New England! In the front, I have a Red Oak and a Bradford Pear wearing their beautiful Fall colors for all to see! They greet me as I come home from a long day at school, and stand out among all the other green trees on the block. I chose them specifically for that reason, and it took a few years, but right now, they are wonderful. In the back, outside my breakfast nook, I see my Bur Oak, Chinese Pistachio, and Chinese Tallow - reds, yellows, oranges, and all bright with the sun on them. The first good wind, and the naked trunks and limbs will be all I see, but for now, it is God's splendor at my beck and call. It reminds me of the cycle of life, and of God's love for me, that He made not only a creation for my survival, but for my enjoyment as well.

Pleasanton is known for it's abundance of lovely, stately live oak trees, and I do enjoy them, but on my street, among all the green, colors rule!!

Sweet dreams!!

Jackie and Andy have both mentioned in their blogs about going to the concert last night, so I'll just continue their theme. I guess everyone who went came away with something different; Andy at a concert is a beautiful sight to behold - total mesmerizing oblivion to the world outside the music; Robert "singing" along to the songs so quietly he didn't think I could hear him (there are no words- it's all instrumental), and Jackie - her face so excited with the "being there" to hear it all in person. What did I come away with last night with? A total peace. That all those folks would stop their hectic lives for a couple of hours to go sit and listen and wonder at music from so long ago played in such a modern age. A beautiful blending of ages and application. It kept away the burdens and worries of our lives while we concentrated on an event so long ago that changed so very much.

Thanks, Robert and Jackie. For everything.

Yesterday, as I went to lunch, I noticed some small, white beads of ice falling from the sky - it was sleet!! Several of us teachers were in the lounge, so we all ran to the door. For just a moment, there was silence as we watched something we don't often see here in South Texas - it was almost too beautiful! The sound of it hitting the ground and cars around us added to the effect. Slowly, children came across us and began to spread the news. As you can expect, there wasn't much work going on; as one teacher put it; there's no way I can keep this from watching this - we live in the desert!! It continued to fall for the majority of the day, and by the time we left, it was mainly soft rain falling. To be honest, I don't know who was more happy to see it; the teach or kids. It was a day not soon to be forgotten by any of us.

Today, I read a letter to all Aggie family members from Dr. Gates, as he resigns to become Secretary of Defense. It was pretty much what you would expect an outgoing college president to say as he leaves, but then I got down to the end. He goes on about how, no matter where he goes or what he does, for the rest of his life, he will "Bleed Maroon." I looked at that and I thought, what is it about that college that makes even a parental bystander like me feel loyalty and pride? I loved my college, Sam Houston State University, and am proud of my degree from there, but I don't "Bleed bearkat orange" for goodness sake.

I guess my love for A&M comes from the wonderful years my girls enjoyed there, and for the son God provided for us throught Aggies for Christ; for the focus and push it gave Dana and Erin to be better people and serve others - things they were taught growing up, but emphasized so beautifully at a time when they were making life-long decisions about who they wanted to be in life.

I don't know the point to this blog, other than to say that I hope Dr. Gates is able to hold onto those qualities he listed from A&M as he heads to D.C.
Heaven knows that place needs an Aggie or two!!

I am SO ready for school to be out for the holidays! Even though I know it'll go fast once it's here, I am just not in the mood to be at school. Whine, whine whine - I sound like I never get a day off, and never get to do anything fun, but I'm just not in the school mood. December just isn't fun at school anymore, and it's an endurance race to see who can make it to the end without losing it - the kids or us. Right now, it's pretty much a tie. Ebeneezer must be standing behind me, whispering Bah, humbug! Perhaps I'll find some mistletoe and go hunt up Andrew!!

Jury duty called today, and just like the other times, I wasn't picked.
They take one look at Andy's profession and I become a paraia to the defense. Doesn't matter that I would love the experience of serving on a jury or that I can make up my mind without him prejudicing me.
I sit all day with my magazine and wait to be dismissed.

On top of it, now I hear the school will take my $6.00 I earned for sitting there - grrrrr!

Where's the justice!!?!

Sunday afternoons are the best. After lunch, and until evening services, I love the idea of resting. Usually, I'm reading the paper and watching "Sell This House". If the mood hits, I'll take a nap, but I don't really like to. One of my angel girls might call, and I'd miss that! Andy's nap time hits him at about 4:00 - today he has an elders' meeting, so there goes that idea.

Today, I'm doing Christmas cards. I usually do them Thanksgiving weekend, but not this year. Oh well; I'll get them done today.

Have a wonderful afternoon....

In almost every way, I am like my dad. (Well, okay, not the bald part!) But in temperment, personality, and general nature, I see him inside me. He died in 1990, and I miss him a lot. I hear him sing at church, I smell his tobacco and greasy dirty hands, and I feel his ribs against me when I would hug him in his later years. He loved to whistle and sing; his whistle was kind of blowing with his teeth clenched together and lips apart, not the usual pucker. He was happiest when he was working; either on a car or in his yard.

I made him mad twice that I can remember. Once, I picked up a gallon of milk in a big thick glass gallon jug and promptly dropped it on the concrete. The other time, I took a black ink pen out of his lunchbox to do homework. That pen belonged to the U.S. Government and was not meant to be used outside the office. Didn't I know that...?

Jackie wrote about time on her blog today. If I could just manipulate one day, to go back and be with Daddy.... but I'll wait. I'll see him soon enough, and then time will not be a factor.

In almost every way, I am like my dad. (Well, okay, not the bald part!) But in temperment, personality, and general nature, I see him inside me. He died in 1990, and I miss him a lot. I hear him sing at church, I smell his tobacco and greasy dirty hands, and I feel his ribs against me when I would hug him in his later years. He loved to whistle and sing; his whistle was kind of blowing with his teeth clenched together and lips apart, not the usual pucker. He was happiest when he was working; either on a car or in his yard.

I made him mad twice that I can remember. Once, I picked up a gallon of milk in a big thick glass gallon jug and promptly dropped it on the concrete. The other time, I took a black ink pen out of his lunchbox to do homework. That pen belonged to the U.S. Government and was not meant to be used outside the office. Didn't I know that...?

Jackie wrote about time on her blog today. If I could just manipulate one day, to go back and be with Daddy.... but I'll wait. I'll see him soon enough, and then time will not be a factor.

Good morning!! I'm up and ready early, so I thought I'd start my day with my blog. Not a lot of news this early in the morning, but we are having some rain and nice, colder weather!! It's only 3 weeks until we dismiss for Christmas break, my family is happy and healthy, and God is taking good care of us. It's a good day!

Wait. Not yet! Hold on, I'll tell you soon - Later. Not now. Wait some more. Be patient. Okay - today!!!

A few weeks ago, I mentioned on this blog that things at work were iffy - a teacher had resigned, and for some reason, my principal was considering moving me to that spot. As stated in our contract, she can place me where she needs me, so I felt I had no recourse should that happen, but I told her it was not my first choice when she asked how I felt. She told me she would seek a replacement, but that I was an option. The wait began.

I asked several people around me to pray that I would not have to move. I like where I am, in my little corner of the sacred Alamo building at the far corner of the campus. Days go by when I don't leave it's confines except to go home. I am left alone to do my job, and I think it's a fine job indeed.

Throughout the weeks, I'd get little hints about things, but no official word - until today. My principal informed me this afternoon that a new teacher has been hired and will start in the next few days. She is my new best friend.

So, Andy and I had Chinese for dinner, and I called Dana and Erin with the good news. Dana said I hadn't sounded that excited about anything in a long time. It's the end of a good day. Now, if I can just stay in my little corner a few more years and retire, I'll be proud of myself.

I hope you had a good day today as well. Sweet Dreams!! :)


By the way, I don't really teach in the Alamo... it's called that because the facade resembles the mission in San Antonio.

Things I'm greatful for # 600 (no, you haven't missed the other 599, I just picked a number that sounded about right!!) :

I learned to sing harmony by ear, from my brother and the Barnes sisters. There were 4 of them, each had "her" part, and when I would go to their house and we'd sing church songs, I'd listen to each one and learn the part. Our church was so small, that when we had worship, I'd have to sing the medley to "balance" out the other parts. Later, when Cathy and I would sit on the swing and sing, she'd always sing alto, and again, I'd get the medley.

When I went to camp, and eventually went to college, I got to sing alto all the time; it was better suited to my voice range and I just liked the "neat " part. Sometimes, I'd go up, like on most Praise songs of the day, or if I was really feeling rebellious, I'd switch to tenor. Never bass; I am a girl, after all!

Anyway, on Sunday, our songleader chose a song we haven't sung in a decade if that soon. It's one of my old Poteet favorites, and has the lead change several times throughout the verse. Well, the people at worship didn't appear to remember it, or had never learned it, and so when the lead changed to soprano and the leader changed to bass - oops!! Luckily I remembered the song and went up. Here comes the alto lead in the chorus; same problem! It was a mess, but I had fun singing all the parts. Dana got a kick out of my "leading" the song, but hey; someone had to keep it from falling apart!!

Now, I'm not bragging, just grateful that all those years ago at the Barnes' house, I listened to those sisters sing!!

I got a jury summons in the mail! I usually get them the week following the end of school, when I'm worn out and grumpy, but it came early this year!! Dec. 4; a Monday. I'm looking forward to it; but the questions usually follow along these lines:
"Mrs. LaMore, is your husband Andrew LaMore?"
"Yes" (duh, it's written right there on the form!!)
"He is an adult probation officer?"
"Yes" (another Duh!)
"Judge, we request this juror not be considered for placement."

GRRR! Just once, I'd like to say, "Hey! I have my own brain!! I can make an impartial decision not based on my husband's career!" I would like to do my civic duty and see the process in action, but NO! They think I am not capable of doing this on my own. So, I take my lovely $6.00 and go home.

Oh well, one less day of school before Christmas!!

This has been a fun day, but boy, am I tired and ready for bed!! It began about 9 am when I awoke to the smell of Dana making sausage balls for breakfast!! Yummy, yummy!! After we enjoyed those, it was almost time for the Aggie game (did I mention I slept in!!?) Anyway, some friends came over and we thoroughly enjoyed watching the Ags hold those Longhorns to only 7 points - WHOOP! It was very exciting, and even more so with some alumni and students watching it with us.

After that, Dana and I did a little running around to some local shops... I bought my first Christmas gift, and saw some potential ones to pick up later. We came home and rested as bit, then it was over to the Hutton's to watch the SPURS. (Dana went out with some friends she hasn't seen much lately, and left the old folks to the tv!)
The SPURS didn't fare as well as the Aggies, but it was still a good game.

Now, it's about bedtime, so I'll say goodnight. I hope you had a good day, and that tonight you'll rest and dream of wonderful things.

Well, we're at the quiet before the storm... turkey's in the over, stuffed with dressing, the table's set, and the tea's made. All I need to do is mix up the sweet potatoes and Dana's going to do corn casserole and then, we wait for the Hutton's to come. After the eating is done, and the table is cleared, it's time for games. Later, we'll all collapse into a happy heap of humanity.... Hope your day is as peaceful and full of blessing!

I don't know if people who are not teachers do this or not, but I have this odd habit of looking at a clock on a day off and thinking, "it's 10:05, I'd be working with "Tom and Jerry" right now", or some such thing. It's like I have to keep up with the schedule even if I'm not there - weird, I know. The other thing is, I NEVER know what the day or date is if I'm not at school! It's like time ceases to exist or something unless I'm in my school room.

HMMM, maybe that's not such a bad thing, come to think of it!! Enjoy your Wednesday!

Little girls and baby dolls! Don't see that much anymore; I guess I'm either way beyond the age where I'm running with that crowd, or little girls just don't take their dolls out in public anymore. Well, today, I was on duty after the bell rang. Kids were filing past me, laughing, showing their buddies stuff, talking about Thanksgiving, and this one little girl caught my eye. She was walking along, slowly, with a bundle in her arms. She was looking at it tenderly, straightening the blanket surrounding it, and oblivious to anyone seeing her. When I looked closely, I could see in the blanket, the face of a baby doll! She'd had it in her backpack all day (kids can't bring toys to school, you know!) and now she had taken her out to check on her. It was a wonderful sight to behold - a little mommy with her baby. It made me smile - innocence still lives among us.

Made me want to hold a doll myself.

Before Erin married Gregg, she asked me once how I knew Andy'd be a good dad. I guess at the time, I knew he would because he'd had that modeled in a wonderful way by my in-laws, and he "fit" my list of qualities, but what I said to Erin was, "I just knew he was a good kisser!" and we laughed and moved on.

30 years is a long time to see someone day light to dark. It's seeing the good and the bad, the frustrating little habits that make you roll your eyes, and the shocks when they do something that is so very out of character that it worries you or takes your breath away.

Today, Andy resumed his duties as one of the elders of our congregation. It's been a long, agonizing almost 4 months since they stepped down, and I really was prepared for him not to take it on again. He's not a quitter, and doesn't give up on commitments, and so this has been especially hard on him. He'd not prepared what he wanted to say until he stepped up, and opened his heart for all to hear. Of course, the other wives were proud of their husbands, but my heart was so full of love and admiration I thought I would burst listening to him. I hope I never forget how that felt.

Now, he's back at it - I hope for a long, happy time. They covet your prayers, as do I.

Today, I shop for Thanksgiving Dinner!! My family is among the few in the U.S.A. that prefer this day over Christmas for some reason. I think it's the quiet calm about this time together rather than the hustle and bustle and frenzy of Christmas. An equal amount of work with a more peaceful result.

Anyway, I decided to shop today rather than wait and go on Wed. Duhh! Hopefully it will be less crazy if I time it right and I"ll come home less frazzled!! We'll be dining with our friends the Huttons, as is our tradition, and we've divided out the foods, so we are good to go.

I hope you are looking forward to your Thanksgiving. I am truly ready to light a fire and sit with some wassail and enjoy a few days of peace before the Christmas frenzy hits!!

Here I come, HEB!!

It's Thursday night; our weekly "flake night" where we eat on the couch and put on our pjs early. It started a while back, when Andy had some where to be every night of the week, but we kept back Thursday for ourselves. Now, we usually watch stuff we've taped during the week until CSI or ER come on. No phone calls, no visits, no interuptions of any kind unless it is an emergency. I really look forward to it; it kinda sets up the weekend coming the next day. I'm glad we pulled it aside; even if it's nothing big, it's our nothing big together. The quiet before the storm.

Hope you find some quiet time for your own.

I know you've never done this, but I have decided that I was wrong. Yep; I had someone figured out, and lately I have decided that what I thought about this person was way off base, and that I made an error in my assessment of her.

I share my room with 4 women on a daily basis; now this might seem impossible that we all get along, but we do. Mainly because we are all so in and out that we aren't around to get into each others' way, but when we do all end up together, it's cool. We even laugh about most things and share little tidbits about our lives that border on intimacy.

As I told you, last week was hard. I needed to talk and talk to someone who was objective and not close to the situation, so I decided to confide in this roommate. She listened, and then proceeded over the next few days to give me real advice and sympathize with my dilemna. She made me laugh about the ridiculousness of it all, and left me alone when she could tell I needed it. It turns out she was the perfect one for me to confide in, because while we are roommates, we aren't buddies, chums, confidants, "sisters" or any of that. She's had some tough times in her life, and I think that has made her appear unapproachable to some, but not me. I've seen a beautiful side to her that opened my heart, and I won't forget it ever. I only hope if the tides are ever turned, she'll feel safe talking to me about it.

Today was beautiful; I hope you saw it. Sweet dreams!!

Rarely do I have a week like this one. Work, home, and church converged on me all this week, with worries and concerns and down-right mean-ness, and I am proud to say I came out of it still standing!
I mentioned a few posts ago about changes at work; that seems to have worked itself out, where I'll be able to stay where I am and continue my current placement. It's not a done-deal, but I'd say 95% . That's one worry I can let go of.
We all say we are going to "let go and let God", but boy that is hard to really do. I'll share more of the week as things pan out, but suffice it to say, God's people do not always make things easy or fun. I guess it's the people part of it that messes things up, and we just have to love and hope.
Anyway, I think the worse is over; surely I am due some down time for a while.

I hope your week was better - Sweet dreams!

I really love little boys. God blessed me with two wonderful daughters, and they have made my life full of love and happiness, but I really enjoy having my little school boys to give me some grins during the day. Two I have this year, Jimmy and Pate, come to me everyday for 50 minutes, where we work on their problems with dyslexia.

Pate is the quieter of the two. He is very much what I visualize my dear son Gregg to have been as a little boy; scrubbed so clean he shines, clothes very obviously chosen with love and a fine sense of fashion by mom, the most fashionable of little boy haircuts; you get the picture. He is loved so much, his dad's business is named FOR HIM. One grin from Pate just melts my heart, and I want to hug him so bad I ache!! (now days, you have to be very careful about that!) Pate works very hard, and is very serious, and I feel good about the progress he is making.

Jimmy is a cartoon in action. His voice even sounds like an animated figure. He wears the oversized shirts and shorts and untied tennis shoes that clomp as he walks. His hair has highlights and sticks straight up in front. He has a devilish sparkle in his eyes and a lop-sided grin does me in... I cannot be angry at him even when he pulls something. He talks too loud, and he half-way attempts his work, yet he gets upset if he messes up. He'd much rather be doing something else, but plays along with me because he can tell I'm gag-ga about him.

As different as they are, Pate and Jimmy are best buddies. They come in and leave arm in arm each day, with big plans for recess. I doubt they socialize in the same circles on weekends, but 5 days a week, they have each other's backs. So cute. Oh yeah - and girls stink!!

They make my day!

Sweet dreams!

I called my brother just now. It's our mom's birthday, and since I couldn't call her, I decided on a whim to give Gary a buzz. Haven't spoken to him in probably 2 1/2 yrs. I've tried a few times in that period of time to call, but I just get his voice mail. My cousin tried once and called 20 times before Gary answered. My guess is he just finally answered to get Tom to leave him alone.

Gary was 7 when I was born. I adored him until I was about 15 and he fell off the pedestal I put him on. Things were never quite the same; I became "the good sister" to his "alcoholic musician" brother. Marsha followed with her vices (mine's food, in case you don't know me!), and we all grew apart as years passed. He lives in Tampa, Fla. right now, and I'd like to see him - he's made a great deal of progress in his journey, and I wish we could recoup some of what we've lost. The last time I saw him was our mom's funeral, as I drove him to the bus station. He told me that he wished we were together more, that he thought we were more alike than before.

I'll let you know if he calls - it'll be great to hear from him.

Oh yeah - Happy Birthday, Margaret Young !

Wow - I woke up this morning having the weirdest of dreams. Erin and Dana were young, yet Erin was married to Gregg. Mama was still alive, we moved back to Brookshire (something that occurs in most of my weird dreams!), Dana and Erin and I were riding around town on a riding mower, having to sneak around to get gas every block, and we lived in a hovel. Two shacks basically hammered together classified as "shabby chic."

Where do these things comes from?!?! None of this was talked about or remembered or anything - it all came from the blue (A RIDING MOWER??) I guess it was the movie theatre hotdog and dill pickle that did me in.

Sorry, Gregg. Maybe next time it'll bode better for you, honey.

Till tomorrow.

Here we go again. Andy's name was put before our congregation this morning as a "candidate" to serve as an elder. Candidate is not the right word, but it's the best I can come with right now. He served until a few months ago, when we had a shake-up and all them men decided it was time to step aside for a while to let some things work through. During this time, we've had some time to consider if serving would be the right thing at this time. I say we, because his service affects me directly. I am one woman who likes the way God has set all this up; I get to watch my dear husband serve in a most honored place, and yet I don't really have all the stress he has to deal with. I'm excited about the list of men who are willing to serve, and I pray for a peaceful transition. These can be the best days of our congregation's history, and I hope these men fall in love with each other and serve many long and fruitful years. To God be the glory.

Sweet dreams!

Many, many years ago, my brother Gary drew a "Life line treadmill" cartoon that I would look at and wonder about how real it was. I think I'm finding out at this stage of my life.

A former co-worker sent out an email this week updating us on her husband's battle with lung cancer. Their kids are our girls' ages, and
we've had dealings with them since we moved here. She retired from teaching a few years ago, and I'd lost touch. Now that she is going through this trial, she is getting in touch with those of us who are still at the school. As I looked at the addresses, I realized that there are very few of us left on that campus who even know her. Our treadmill is rolling, and it's rolling fast. I'm behind only one or two on the longevity list, and now I feel like I want to turn around and run backwards; I"m not ready to be falling off the end!!

Now I know that retirement and dying are not the same, and I'm greatly looking forward to not working in the future, but when you think about the days gone by, and the opportunities missed, it's a sobering thought. I guess that's why God tells us not to worry about things we can't change; our days are too short and fast as it is without filling them up with things you can't do anything about. So if I haven't told you today that you are special to me and that I love you with my whole heart, here it is, along with a big hug.

Have a beautiful Saturday!

Tonight, Poteet and Pleasanton play football for the first time in many many years. It's brought back many really fun memories for me like: Cathy and me and the rest of the group riding the bus over (wow - 8 miles!) and chanting, "We want the bucket back!" over and over. It was an old oaken bucket that whoever won got to keep for the year until the next game. Well, Pleasanton would tromp us 65 - 0 or worse, and we're ride home so depressed; until the next year, when we'd do it all over again. I remember sitting on old, warped, wide wooden bleachers in COLD, yes cold, weather, under blankets drinking hot chocolate and not feeling our cheekbones for hours after the game. I remember thinking Pleasanton was this big city, and rarely venturing over to see what was there. Well, tonight it resumes. We'll see who comes home with the bucket.

Have you watched Jericho yet? It's about a small town in Kansas left to cope with the aftermath of a nuclear bomb in Denver and being shut off from the rest of the nation and the world. It's pretty thought provoking, actually; all the reliance we have on technology in so many forms. Even just the communication aspect of it is chilling - not knowing who is alive where....

I wonder how we would do it with out being able to just click on the tv or computer and be instantly in contact. What about bills - how would they get paid if all the computer records were fried in the blast! AH, a plus side to nuclear war!! :) Hey, it beats Dancing with the Stars!!

Several things on my mind tonight to share, but I think I'll go with the one most foremost in my thoughts.

I HATE to not be in control of some things. I don't want to rule the world, not even for a minute, but I do wish I had some impact in things that affect my life and my family's. I'm waiting right now for a decision to be made where I work that will directly impact not only me but the other 4 women in my room, the teachers that I work with and lots of kids. I've been given a chance to give my opinion of the situation, but now it is out of my hands. My daily routine could drastically change and I'd have no recourse. I would have to finish the year doing something that I really do not want to do, and more importantly, leave doing what I am enjoying. I am most anxious, to say the least.
I should know in a matter of days, so I'll ask you to pray with me as I wait. I'd like to stay where I am, as I am feeling successful and productive there. Please ask that I am able to remain where I am, and that if that is not to be, that I would accept God's will and be a good servant.
I appreciate your prayers on my behalf.

I am aging. I feel it today in my reflection on the retreat of the past weekend. Used to be, I'd be the "cheerleader" of the group, up in front and calling all the shots - the "hyper" one. This past weekend, I found myself sitting and watching as the others led in such marvelous ways. I loved watching young and old, member and visitor, and all other assorted women hugging, loving and laughing together, working to prepare meals, and sharing when someone's heart was needing care. It gave me great pleasure to know that, with one phone call, and entire weekend came together for God's glory and our energizing. My most heart-felt thanks to everyone who was there and played a part in the time away. I hope that we have many more to come, and that more and more women will come to enjoy what we had this weekend.

And Jackie, thanks for counting in the night.

Tomorrow, I leave for the Hill country for the weekend. Since I first went to church camp at age 14, the area has been a place of spiritual and emotional renewal for me. Many a time Andy has put me in the car for a "chill-out" drive in the Hills. Now, tomorrow, I get to go deep into the most beautiful part of the area with some of my best friends. I know a lot of good will come from our time there, yet I find myself a little apprehensive about the trip. Please pray that all will go well and we will come back uplifted and refreshed. I'll let you know all about it on Sunday!
Sweet dreams.

Tomorrow is payday; a big day for all, even if it's only going to go to the bank for paying bills. But tonight, I'd like to suspend reality and have a little fun.

If you could take one pay check and use it just for what you'd like, what would you do with it?

I'd take a trip with my husband, and spend what was left on "foo-foo."

Why is it that when you ask someone a question, they say, "You don't really want me to answer that, do you?" Now, my pet peeve is stupid questions that answer themselves, and this would have to be one at the top of the list. If I ask a specific person a specific question, wouldn't they assume that I did, in fact, want an answer? I don't just ask random questions to hear myself talk; I talk for a living, so hearing my own voice is not a thrill. I choose people whose opinion I value, and then I ask them wanting their input or advice. If something is that heavy on my heart that I stop you and ask you for something, please give it to me. Full of love but with both barrels. I'm a grown woman, and I can handle the truth, or at least your take on it. If I haven't asked you yet, be patient; your turn will come!

Sweet dreams -

This is Red Ribbon Week - one dreaded by most public school teachers in Texas, yet one of the few where we get to actually put aside the rigors of the school year and have some fun, creative time with the kids.
Today was "Team us against drugs" at my campus. We were encouraged to wear our favorite teams' jerseys and show how sports and teamwork can keep us away from drugs. (I could comment here, but won't)
There were a few various jerseys, yes, Dana - even a Texas State jersey! - but by far, the favs were the SPURS, TU, and A&M. All day, you could see adults and kids alike "arguing" over whom was the better jersey, the orange or the maroon. Even at the ripe old age of 9, opinions ran strong. What a hoot!
Tomorrow - the big downtown rally and march!!

You know how people are always telling you how things are going to be, and then, when the time comes, what they told you is absolutely true? Here's my point. People always told me that you never feel you are getting older; that sometimes you feel your age, and other times it seems like you are still young. Well; here I am. 51 years old.
Today at lunch, Andy was holding a baby at the restaurant where we were eating with some friends, and I looked at him and he seemed 25 again, as when he held Dana just that way. How did we get here so fast?!? And now, the people that looked SO OLD as they reached their 50s when I was young look amazingly young and chipper!! I'm too old for some things and not old enough by a large margin for some others!! It's so confusing!!!
This time thing just wears me out!

I'm so glad God is not like me. I love hearing from Dana and Erin, and I hate time to go by when I don't get to talk to them and find out how their lives are going. They don't call everyday, or some days they call more than once, but I can't recall one time when they started off a conversation with a list of the things they need. Usually it's a funny happening during their day, or a general phone chat.

I was wondering about that at 1:30 this morning, when I was praying.
I've given up praying before bedtime, because I'm asleep before I know it and then, I'm ashamed. So, when I wake up in the night, I"ll call on the Father. Being the mom that I am, I usually start off with concerns and blessings I seek for the kids, and that's not what I should be doing. My God deserves so much more of my adoration and praise, and I hit him with "I need" and "I want."

Forgive me, Father God for not just calling to visit. Things are going pretty well here, and I thank You for all those blessings. You are such an awesome God, and I love how you wait so patiently for me.

I have always loved my students. Some more than others, and all for different reasons; but with rare exception, I have been able to find something loveable about them. When you spend 185+ days with a kid, you laugh alot, cry (usually not in front of them), hear the bad and good about home, and see them in daily interaction with the world around them. There are days you just wish they would go away and let you move on. When Dana and Erin were small, I'd tell them, "Your teachers' job is to teach you, not to be your friend." and I meant every word. Teachers are not friends. We are a myriad of other roles in their lives, but friend cannot be one of those roles. Now, more than ever, I see us as guardian, counselor, and comforter. Home is not what it was, and by the look in their eyes, you see what is missing. I feel it when they walk past me and either just run their hands along my shoulder or fall with full abandon onto my lap and arms. As I age, I find my role is less and less academic and more and more about really teaching them what they need for life; others before and after me can impart the "book learning," but I feel COMPELLED to invest my time and energy into making each and every one of them feel loved and valuable and full of an amazing future. 185 days doesn't seem long enough to impact a life in that way. It all makes the stuff of school business seem ridiculously trivial.

I want to spend money. Lots, and lots of money. I don't care if it's real or plastic, I want to drop a bundle.

We've been doing Dave Ramsey for about a year now, I think. It's helped us a lot, and we've made good progress, but we still have some debt to handle before we can yell, "Debt Free!!!" I've been obedient to his doctrine and have budgeted almost every penny, but I am ready to explode. I "need" to buy so many things, and I want more than I "need." I can barely see that little light at the end of that long, dark tunnel.

Patience, Amy. It'll be worth it when it happens.

I'm pretty sure God didn't set up His church with this in mind, but in 2006, this has to be my favorite part of the church....

On Sunday, we worshipped with Erin and Gregg at West Houston church of Christ in Houston. It was our second time, and we were looking forward to meeting more of their friends. They have an energetic worship leader, and a good minister, and so we were up for it. Just as we were being seated for worship, Dana grabs my arm and starts jumping up and down, "There's the Parkers!" she says and points across the way. Sure enough, Cecil and Cheryl Parker were going to their seats right across the aisle. We met and worshipped with the Parkers in Katy in the early 1980s, and then Dana became acquainted with them during her student teaching time at Cinco Ranch, where they are members now. They were there to visit with friends on Sunday, so they got to meet Erin and Gregg. It was wonderful to see these dear saints and catch up, even if for a minute. God is so good to give us these glimpses of Heaven, where we'll all be re-united forever in praise and glory!! It was the icing on the cake of a wonderful weekend with my dear ones.

On a serious note, please pray for me. There is a chance I may be reassigned to another teaching assignment in the next few weeks, one I"m not excited about at all. Pray a suitable candidate can be found and hired, so that I can stay where I am and continue the work I find so rewarding. I'd appreciate it very much.

Sweet dreams on this Monday night.

Today, we are going to my sister -in-law's home for "the gathering." There will be about 25 of us with all the family there, and it will be wonderful. Chris and Alan are a model of how to be good hosts and hostesses; just the right amount of food and drink; music, lots of laughter, and a lovely back yard to sit and visit in. The weather is "chamber of commerce" for the city of Houston, and I'm looking forward to it bigtime. My kids fed us a late and yummy breakfast, Andy walked the dog and Dana did laundry. Life in the fast lane...

Hope you are having a good day! :)

well, I'm here at Erin's . She's making lasagna and salad and bread for dinner - I am NOT going to want to cook when I get home after a week off!! Had a good night with Dana and a safe drive over to Houston. We saw the aunt and uncle for a bit at my inlaws, now it's time for Gregg and Dana to get here so the card games can commence !! Roark is glad to see us, and good times are here for all!! I love family times-

hope you enjoy your loved ones this weekend!! And, thanks Jenn!

Well, I got to San Marcos a little later than planned - today was off from the get-go.... imagine my face when the man on the radio informed me it was 7:20 - not the 6:20 I needed it to be. Well, anyway, I beat the tardy bell and left school with everything in place for the sub tomorrow.

Dana and I had a yummy dinner at a little place by the outlet mall; including Frickles - fried dill pickle spears. Wow - my mouth was a water sprinkler all day thinking about it. Now, tonight I sleep at her place and head for the city of Houston tomorrow to meet up with my dear Andrew. I can't wait to look into those eyes I love and kiss that sweet mouth!!

Sleep well -

Well, I'm supposed to be packing to go to San Marcos, and I can't get going. I've done the laundry, and mentally done the hard part - what to take with me, but it isn't doing it by itself. I need to gather things to take with me; mom's cake dish, a late birthday gift for one of my favorite Houstonians, Andy's forgotten socks, etc. It is not that big a deal; yet for some reason, I'm waiting. I'm way ready to see my Andy and the kids, but I'm also dreading the drive over by myself. I guess that's the key; I'm not liking being by myself. I'm ready for that t0 be over. I miss Andy....

Growing up, my family was lower middle class. Dad worked at Kelly AFB in San Antonio and mom was a housewife. We had one car, one t.v., and - literally - furniture from "the town dump." Mom made most of my clothes - she was very talented- and life was good. In fact, going to the dump was one of our great family adventures.

Somehow, my mom would know when the "good stuff" would be there, and we'd load up in the car and drive out. We made sure we had good shoes on, in case you stepped on something sharp. Then, we'd spread out and start looking. I think I remember being aware that I should be embarrassed to be walking among trash, but mom made it such an adventure that it was okay. Now remember, back then, people burned their household garbage, so most of this stuff was broken down, "useless" items no one wanted anymore. In the hands of my mom, though, it was rejuvenated. A coat of paint, some of dad's handwork with tools, and it had a new life. We've walk and look, and if we found something of interest, we'd call everyone over to see. I'm sure it was odd looking from someone else's perspective, but for us, it was an outdoor version of Family General!
Leave it to my mom and dad to put life back into someone else's junk.

I never took Dana and Erin to the dump... but there's always tomorrow!

Well, I'm about to venture out and pick up some things from the store. I had a peaceful night - finally turned off my bedside light about 1:20 am, and got up with my alarm about 7:30. Lazy day, trying to decide what I want to eat while my man is away. I may splurge and do Chinese one night, but not tonight. No school, the timing's off. Watched some movies and read the paper. I don't think I'd want this to be my daily routine, but it's good every once in a while. Tomorrow, it's back to school, and I"ll be back.

I miss Andrew - hurry, Friday!!

Andy and I have been married 30+ years... roughly 11,086 nights. Probably only 100 of those have I spent by myself while he was away, and most of those 100, I had the girls with me. My point ? I'm about to spend 4 consequetive nights alone in our home. What's the big deal, you may ask? I AM A COWARD!! I love the idea of not cooking and watching just what I want and falling out of bed to make it to work, but the sleeping alone part creeps me out!! So, if you don't mind, pray for my peace and security while I pass the nights away. I'm not good when I don't sleep, so that makes me even more anxious. I'll just give it a go, and let you know later how things work out.

Sweet dreams.

I eat lunch everyday with a couple of my co-workers. We dash in, grab the microwave to be first, and then we sit to enjoy our 30 min. lunch. The other day, we were talking about our habits at night, and how in a routine we all seem to be. One lady said, she and her husband, every Friday night, pop one bag of popcorn and drink -between them - one and a half Cokes. Not a coke a piece, one and a half. Another lady shared her and her husband's routine of getting their snacks together and watching the same movie over and over. I shared that Andy and I have "flake night" on Thursdays, where we fix our plates and sit on the couch to watch our favorite shows. No phone calls are allowed and we pretty much do it exactly the same each week. We all decided that these are pretty harmless, but do sound a little, well, mundane. I don't care. That Thursday night, I know Andy is mine alone, and even if not one sentence is shared, I know life is good. Here's to many Thursdays to come.

Been sitting here a while, wondering what to post. Usually, something pops into my head, but not today. I guess I'll just say "hello" and to have a nice, peaceful evening. That's it for today.

Chili's is almost ready to open it's doors here in Pleasanton. Wow - and I hear that Home Depot is coming soon as well. Now, I'm happy to have these nice, convenient places to go, it "saves the drive" into town and makes our little town more credible in the eyes of some people. But I find myself putting on the brakes - just how big do we want our little town to become? Will we be just be one chain after another soon - I mean, we already have HEB, Subway, and Bill Miller.
Good stuff, but at what price? Small towns are their own identities, and if we aren't careful, we'll just become another offshoot of the city. I guess you have to take the bad with the good. I guess time will tell -

Calendars are a big deal in our family. Every Christmas, almost, one is chosed with great care for each member of our family. None of these insurance or bank, run of the mill calendars for us! Andy usually had Star Trek; me, Far Side - you get the drift. Well, today is "turn the calendar day" for October. New birthdays appear, school holidays, other exciting events make themselves known. I love it.

Today's turning reminds me of my favorite season - Fall. I love everything about it - the smells, colors, new foods, the way the sun shines through the giant oaks on my way to school each morning, and so on. Holidays we wait for all year are closer, and with that comes family. There's just not a time better than Fall!

Do you have a favorite season?

There is a scripture that tells us to be prepared to give a reason for the hope that is in us. I'm pretty good at the "why I believe what I believe" aspect of that, but yesterday, I was put in a position that was different. I only hope I didn't mess things up....

A lady I work with is a member, should I say WAS a member, of my congregation. She admitted to me that she has not been very involved or has not studied as much as she should. She was concerned about something she'd heard at worship on Tuesday night, and wanted to know my stand on what she'd heard. She was really upset, and I knew I had to choose my words carefully but be truthful. We spent about 20 minutes, and I think I did okay. I pray I did- I want her to study more and learn from the truth what should be. I hope you'll pray for me that i might continue to have dialouge with her about this, and that she will make peace and return to our fellowship.

I get LOTS of forwards. Sometimes I send them on, sometimes not - like those "do it in 10 days or else you will DIE and the earth will implode!" ones. There have been several that contain all those little words of wisdom, and I usually read them through, just looking for new ones. Well, not so long ago, I cut this one out and hung it on my file cabinet at school: "There are worse things than a wrong number at 4:30 in the morning." Yesterday, I got one of those calls. It wasn't at 4:30 in the morning, but the message was just as scary.

Erin had been in a wreck in Houston, and Gregg was calling to give her Dad and me the news. His voice was one of calm terror - trying to ease the news and yet not scare the life out of me. She is okay, he said, and then proceeded to give me the details. Later, when Andy asked me a hundred questions, I could not recall detail one, but my girl is okay. Jerk in the red car that spun her around like a top kept going like a coward, but several nice people stopped to help.

Later in the evening, she felt like talking, so she called. I was really okay, until she told me about heading for the guardrail the seperated her from becoming a projectile out over the skies of Houston. I managed to swallow that big lump and keep talking to her, but the image shook me pretty good. She is okay. She is okay.

Thanks to all the nice folks who came to her rescue in the midst of craziness - I take back all the mean things I've said about Houston drivers!!

More and more, I enjoy sitting back and watching people around me interact. Tonight after church services were over, I was talking to my friend Jackie about something that was really weighing on her heart. I was listening to her, she had my full attention, except for the people behind her that I was watching. She asked me if she was bothering me, and I assured her that I was with her, but just checking something out. The two people I was looking at were as close as two people could be, face to face, arms around each other, bodies in full embrace. The beauty of this picture is that, only a few months ago, these two had gone through major trauma in their joined lives, and their relationship had appeared doomed. A long-term, intimate friendship, shattered beyond repair. Or so it seemed. I don't know who initiated the healing between them, or if they will come out of it anywhere near what they once were, but tonight, they were back and talking. Loving. Forgiving. It was a beautiful sight to behold, and renews my faith in the resilience of the human spirit to overcome the most broken of hearts. I believe it was truly something only a loving God could do. It made my night.

Really nothing burning to blog about tonight; kinda tired from the busy weekend and headed out in a minute for more dynamic preaching and dinner after with dear friends.

Come to think of it, how much of the world would consider going to church on a Monday something peaceful and uplifting? I'm glad I share this blog with those of like mind, who do understand that, no matter how tired I am, and how I'd love to stay home on my couch for "Deal or No Deal?", I will go anyway and be so glad that I did.

What does the world know about contentment, anyway?!?

I love you guys, out there in my blogland!!

Ode to Erin

Everyone ought to have an Erin in their family. Over the years, I've observed things in common with girls named Erin, and most of them fit mine. They are outspoken. They stand up for the underdog and don't care what people think of them for being friends with such. They question. They get what they want; usually by wearing down the opposition (i.e. parents!) They are loving and fiercely protective of those they love. They are not easily led, but are loyal to those they follow.

Dana was 2 yrs. and 8 months old when Erin was born. I think that is the perfect age, for they have been best sisters all their lives. Other than Gregg, Dana is the one person I don't think Erin could live without, which makes me so happy. Erin loves her father fiercely and has always wanted just to make him proud. And me? I think Erin thinks I'm kinda easy; she's always known how to persuade me, to make me laugh when I wanted to be SO mad at her I could scream (and did, a few times!) and can say "MOM!" in more than 100 ways - well, maybe not.

We tease Erin a lot, because she's given us so many wonderful memories to use at her expense, but the truth is, she is the perfect daughter. There is not one thing about her I would change for all the money in the world. There's not another mom in the world with a daughter like mine, and I thank God for her every moment of my life.

Happy Birthday, Erin Elaine LaMore Johnson September 24, 1982

I have several things on my mind today to blog about, but I think I'll do the one most specific to this day... the others will come later.

This afternoon, Andy and I attended an Eagle Scout ceremony for a young man we know through church. He told us that he has been working on his Eagle for 4 years; I can't control my eating for a month. What does that say about me!?

Anyway, back to Aaron. His scout leader told the group gathered today that only 1 in 200 scouts make it to Eagle; the highest rank on scouting. My dad was a scout master for the majority of my life, and he only had 4 or 5 that I can remember. He loved those boys and kept in touch with them all his life. In fact, one of them threw a water balloon and broke my car windshield and I wouldn't tell Dad who it was because I knew he would be so disappointed! One of the neat things is that most Presidents were Eagle Scouts, along with members of Congress and many high level business leaders.

So what does camping and wearing that goofy uniform have to do with being so successful? I have to believe it is more that the process, it is the care and influence of the adults in that boy's life that enable him to have the perception of himself that he can accomplish the difficult without quitting when it gets hard. They learn to dream and plan and depend on others to help them along the way.

I hope to learn in the future that Aaron has done great things with his life; he certainly has gotten off to a great start!!

Five years ago today, Margaret Young, my mom, died. I miss her humor and her ability to see the best in people, her desire for equality and justice for all people and her generosity of spirit. I hope her spirit is at peace.

One of the most frustrating things about mom-dom is having to sit back and watch your kid hurt. Whether it is to help them learn a lesson, or grow a little more independent or just survive one of life's lovely little tragedies, it is what I have hated the most about being a mom. When babies cry, you pick them up and give them a bottle or passie or blankie and most of what is hurting them is gone in two seconds. Then, they are able to put into words what is wrong, and you can talk them through the rough spots.
When they go to college or whatever life takes them to, you are suddenly separated by miles, and you hear their voice over the phone. The anguish and disappointment over the lines breaks your heart, but you KNOW they have to handle it. Although there is not a lot you can do, you'd do whatever if it would just make the pain go away. You know that life will be better and that the days ahead will get better as time passes, but they are dealing with the here and now. And it hurts. All you can do is love them through it. Man, it's hard.

Who says Texas doesn't have seasons: we had Fall today! I saw and felt it myself. First, Andy came and got me up to go to the back porch and feel the air. No mistaking that feel - Fall! You can stand and inhale all day long and never get tired of it after months and months of triple digit dry weather. Unfortunately, I had to get ready for school, so I went back in. But - later in the day, I was walking back to my building, and looked down and saw a beautiful red leaf, laying on the dirt for my pleasure! Now, it WAS a crepe myrtle, and they do turn when nothing else will, and it is a little early, but I don't care. For that moment, I was in Vermont or Maine, or where ever; where you actually need long sleeves and corduroy pants and mittens of all colors. It was great!! "Praise God from Whom all blessings flow!"

I really didn't know what I wanted to write about today until I checked my comments from the last entry... YIPPEE!!! Shanon's here! My dear friend that makes my heart smile just by reading her name was there in black and white for me to see!! WELCOME, dear one!

Shanon and I had our first daughters within 4 months of each other. We lived next door to each other and our husbands worked together in the prison unit down the road. We ate cheese dip and played games, and new each other's families. We were both teachers and involved in our respective churches, so life was just grand. After Dana was born, I was staying home the rest of the year with her, and everyday, Shanon would pull in her driveway and go put her stuff in her house. Then, she'd walk over and come see us. She'd take Dana in her arms and lay her across her growing belly and say, "Look baby, here's your friend Dana to play with you." Then, we'd visit while Dana just lay there. How do you top that?!?

Well, the years have passed, and we've both made lots of other friends, but for me, she's still among the very top in almost every way.

My heart is still smiling, just thinking about my friend. I hope you have some one like that in your life.

When my mother died and my sister and nephew left town, my sweet father-in-law asked us when we'd be moving back over toward Houston. Andy has 2 brothers and a sister and we are the only ones who've left the area. We see them a few times every year; mainly holidays and birthdays and now graduation kinds of times. I feel my nieces and nephews don't really know me, but that is how things are when you do live apart.

Anyway, after he asked us that, we talked about leaving and finding a new life closer by. Andy checked openings in his field and I hit the houses in the towns he brought home, and we talked about being closer to Erin and Gregg. Then, we came to a conclusion that my father-in-law just doesn't "get." Pleasanton IS home. So much of our lives are rooted here; our history, our church family - we are not ready to walk away from that into an uncertain place. Tonight that was shown to me again, when we went to the football game. Former students, co-workers, folks from church, etc. were all around us. Kids that we've watched grow up are now in band and cheerleading and playing on the team. We sit on the bleachers where we've sat for several teams, right at home with our crew. It was all so familiar, and felt so right.

I'm not saying we'll never leave - only God knows those kind of things, but for now, we'll stick with Pleasanton. Why? We've been very blessed and feel like no other house could be our home.

I am SO tired of reruns!! I am ready for the new season to begin, so that I can get back to my obsessions: Lost, 24 (but not until Jan. for that one!), Medium, CSI, and ER are full of old friends and unfinished business!! What in the world do these people do when they aren't making new shows for me to watch?!? I know, it comes across as a terribly mundane life, but after a long day of reality, I want escapism and fiction! They even saved 7th Heaven after the WB was going to kill it, so now I can keep up with Eric and Annie and their brood of pregnant kids. (By the way, how can all 3 sets of kids be having twins - that's even too far-fetched for me to conceive. Pardon the pun!!) Just a week or so to go, then it'll all start up again.

I know - get a life, Amy.

I really don't feel like being serious tonight - just got through watching Sybil and that will put a downer on any day. So, let's talk about dolls !

When I was little, my mom had a part-time job while Gary and I were in school. Her purpose was to get out of the house that she felt cloistered in, and she would do various little jobs around town. Every payday, she would cash her little check, load Gary and me into the car, and off we'd go to San Antonio. My mom knew one way in to Sears on Military Drive, and one way home. We never ventured off that road, and never went anywhere else, except to the bowling alley down the road. At Sears, I would get a new doll and a bag of malted milk balls from the candy counter. Gary would get candy and then we'd go bowling. I'd play with my doll while he and mom bowled.
Needless to say, after just a little while, I'd have quite a collection of dolls. Gary, being the great big brother that he was, did his best to destroy them, but I got them faster than he could plan their demise.

Now, I know I had favorite dolls, but to pick one would be very hard. I don't even consider Barbies in that group; they were a world of their own. But if I had to choose, I'd pick Tiny Tears. A lovely little baby face, made of hard plastic, but sweet to behold. You'd fill her "tummy" with water in her bottle, and then when you'd squeeze her, the tears would flow. Looking back, it was kind of odd to set your baby up to cry, but I'm sure there's nothing psychological in that - it was just fun. I played hours and hours with Tiny (she never had a real name that I can remember!) and have her to this day. She gave me lots of practice for holding Dana and Erin, and for that, I'm thankful!

Do you recall a favorite doll of your own?

Isn't it funny how you do something everyday and think nothing of it, and someone comes along and makes a BIG DEAL about how wonderful it is that you are doing that thing you do everyday?

One thing I've learned about teaching Special Ed kids is that they are just kids like any other. I'm not talking about the severe/profound kids; just the everyday kids with learning disabilities. I don't want to try to figure out how many I've taught over the years, but it's been a few dozen at least, and some have been more trying than others. However, they are "what I do" and to me there are others out there much more trying and frustrating than my kids. Well... today, my teacher with whom I do inclusion came up to me and said, "God bless you, God bless you for working with _____ like you do!" She was very flattering and kind, and I felt good but it's really not that hard. Perhaps I shouldn't tell that out loud; I may be "found out." But really, it's not a big thing. I just look at them as if they were my own, and treat them with the respect I would want my own daughters treated. The rest is plain old teaching. I feel blessed to do it everyday - really. The rewards are immeasureable.

Rain, rain, rain!! Finally, nice, measureable, sweet-smelling rain has come back to Pleasanton! The earth is drinking it up as quickly as it falls, and will take all the skies have to offer. Our cat is even enjoying being out in is, as it cools things off so nicely.

It's nice to have prayers answered, isn't it?? Thanks, Father for taking care of us this day.

Don't you love eyes?! Everything you need to know about a person and what they feel and think can be learned by one glimpse at their eyes. Yesterday, I had two amazing glimpses into a person's feelings.

One was a man I was speaking to about an event in our not so distant past. This is a calm and yet passionate man, who never fails to show compassion for others and still hold people responsible for their actions. As we talked, and I mentioned a specific event, immediately his eyes flamed with intensity and I knew I'd opened a can of worms I shouldn't have. My husband's eyes do that; they glow with fire when you've said something that sets his blood to boil. Stop while you can or be ready to hear the truth as he knows it.

The other instance yesterday was when I was working with a 4th grade teacher in her classroom. I was across from her with a group while she was testing a little boy I have in Resource. At just the right minute, we met eyes across the classroom, and her eyes were looking at me in amazement that this child could not read a letter, much less words and sentences. The look of horror that said, "What will I do with him!?" shot out of her eyes and was sad and humorous at the same time. Forget Vegas, Tracy - you have NO poker face!

Eyes - they sometime betray us and yet they give us so much that words fail to convey.

Today was library day for a couple of my dyslexia groups. We walked over and the boys knew exactly what type of book they were looking for, so it was an easy trip. Wish they always had an idea of what they wanted before we walked into the place....

Anyway. School nowdays is rush, rush, hurry, don't take time to talk, look, wonder, think, etc. 5 minutes here, 20 there, don't go off the treadmill for a minute or you'll throw the whole thing off. Well, not today.

On the way back from the library, we stopped. Right on the sidewalk, in the open for all to see. Why? There was a wonderfully entertaining squirrel hiding from us on the trunk of the tree beside the sidewalk, and my two little 9 year olds were transfixed. We took the time to watch, in silence and awe the movements of the squirrel, and then, as an added bonus, two little sparrows taking a bath in the sprinkler in the grass. When the animals moved on, so did we. Back to the room for the remaining minutes. Did we finish our work today? No. Are we behind and have to catch up - yes. Was it worth it- you bet. For a minute, school was fun today.

I'll bet I know what the boys talked about doing today, and it wasn't work.

Every marriage has its problems.

I don't like to go to bed by myself. I need more sleep than Andy does.
Thus, our problem. I should sleep from about 9:30 to 6:30, and he can run on only about 5 hours of sleep. So, if I try to match his pattern, I am grumpy and miserable and the little children at school have to put up with me. My eyes water and I yawn a lot - it's not pretty, people. I'm on the couch, waiting for him to come to bed, and I turn into the Bobblehead from Pleasanton. It's really not nice- it hurts when my head goes bashing into the back wooden trim of the sofa, or I drop what I'm holding, or I SNORE really loudly. All so we can go to bed at the same time.

If he gets up and comes to bed when I go, then his five hours of sleep runs out about 3:00 am and he is awake the rest of the night. Makes for a long day of keeping the criminal element in check.

But I want us to go to bed TOGETHER! It's really important to me, even after all these years.

I'm open to suggestions.

Teachers are such whiners - I admit it; I am one myself. One day, not so long ago, I was listening to some of us and it sounded like such a bunch of babies. I try not to do it anymore, but it happened the other day...

We've been in school all of 3 weeks; two with kids. Just had a nice, long break from the rigors of last year, and should be refreshed and eager to go with a new group. WRONG !! Everyone was so ready for this Labor Day holiday that you'd think we'd been working months on end with no time off! I mean, I don't like it when people insinuate that "June, July and August" are my reasons for being a teacher (see previous blog), but hey, I do like a long weekend just like the next guy.

So, Andy is home, and we are heading to SA for the most fun place homeowners can imagine - Home Depot!!

So... how long till the next day off ?!?! Enjoy today!

Breakfast with the LaMores...
I've been a LaMore for 30 years. Loved everyday of being a part of a great family, but I do have one issue. Breakfast.

To be a genetic LaMore means your eyes open before dawn and you are ready to be up and eating a full meal breakfast. Doesn't matter if you want to sleep in; breakfast is waiting until everyone is up and seated at the table together.

Now, I don't talk when I first wake up, and I"d rather wait a while until I have to eat, but that will not do. Andy gets me up about 2 hours after they have all been up, waiting to eat. I bumble out in my robe and washed face to see them, seated at the table. I know I have offset their routine, and I feel badly - really. But they are all happy and talkative and express to me how happy they are that I am up. I "smile" and jump in to join Andy on the final preparations for the morning meal. My brain is fuzz, but I attempt to make conversation and to clear my brain. I fell awkward and boring and lazy - it hasn't changed in 30 years, so why do I think today will be any different.
We eat breakfast, I wake up somewhere in the middle of the meal, and as soon as it is over, they leave. Gone. Another meal enjoyed
followed by hugs and kisses. Just when I am ready to talk!

Drive safely, mom and dad; I'll see you in Oct. I love you!