New Year's Resolution made - and KEPT!!

Don't normally make New Year's Resolutions... my past history teaches me a lot about my ability to follow through on "projects". After a long time of not being able to stay awake and read, or remember what I was able to read, I mourned my loss of that love. So, with apnea gone and thyroid under control, I decided that this was going to be the year of returning to the books I have so long missed.

Enter my friend Jackie. She is persistent. She loves things passionately, and wants me to enjoy those things with her. So far, I've resisted horses and quilting, but since I loved reading anyway, I gave in when she handed me her Nook with "The Help" on it. It sat and sat, for weeks, because of my fear of not being able to enjoy it. The other day, she told me she wants the Nook back to send to her sister - have I finished the book yet???? :( Ummm, not really. I used my time in Houston as an excuse - sorry, Erin - and promised her I'd finish soon.)

I was halfway through on Sat. night when she asked one more time: "Where are you in the book?" Okay. I gotta do this.

Well, at 5:00 this morning, I finished "The Help". It was such a good feeling!! I can do this after all!!!

If felt so good, that rush to turn the next "page"... I'd forgotten how mesmerizing a good story can be!! I know exactly which book is next!

Now, to watch the movie!!!

So many things!

I wish I'd been more self-disciplined these last few days, as I have a lot to post . My year-end countdown, by Christmas holidays with friends and families, my New Year's frivolity, the Johnson anniversary, the Spurs, and so on. It has been a busy season, and it's hard to get it all into words.

Many trips to Houston for wonderful events; Matt and Summer's wedding, B's first birthday, Liz turning two.... Christmas Eve with the family and Christmas Day. Delicious times with the LaMore clan - thankfulness for Mom's continued improvement - a game with nephews I rarely get to interact with.

So, as 2011 begins, suffice it to say that I am a contented, happy woman. Andy shows me more and more how truly much he loves me (maybe he always has and I just didn't see it!), and my friendships grow dearer to me with each passing day. My daughters and sweet son give me hope for a great future for them all.

To quote a line from the movie "Hope Floats," my cup runneth over. May I never forget how God has blessed by life with His goodness.

So, to you and yours, a Happy, Healthy, and Fun 2011.

Now, if those Spurs will just bring home Banner 5!!!

What a weekend!

I'm exhausted!! :) Beginning Friday night, it was one cool thing after another - We had a delicious dinner in San Antonio with my cousins, followed by a good time of visiting at their home. Deeann had brought a cd of our family dating back to our great-grandparents, and that was bittersweet. So many dear ones now gone - I"m so glad I have Heaven to look forward to!!

Anyway, an awesome Ladies' Breakfast at Jackies' home started Saturday, and then a quick trip to SA again. The Hutton's came for dinner, and we settled in on the sofa to watch Sarah Palin speak. Nothing excited, just good time spent.

Sunday was slow- we were both a little under the weather, but we had time together to rest. Felt good.

Now, we start another week -

Two things -


First - after 6 weeks of agony with my right knee, a new doctor injected me with cortisone, and I feel 90% better!! Saturday in Austin, I felt like and old, old woman - today, much more my age!!

Second - I miss my friend, Jackie, so much!! Between my knee knocking me out, and her being in Denver, I really, really miss her!! Come home, soon, my friend!!

Farewell, 2009

Today doesn't feel like New Year's Eve. Part of it is because we haven't had Christmas yet with the Johnson clan, a situation we are going to correct by driving over this afternoon. Another thing is, this year just went too fast!!

While overall it was an average year, the first year of Liz's life, and the recent addition of Bladen to our family has made it extraordinary. The sweetness and gentleness of their lives flows over into ours, and makes simple things seem so amazing. I guess the memories of my own two darling babies so long ago has something to do with it - yet while the love and enjoyment is there, the pressure of responsibility is not. What a wonderful blend of emotions that produces!!

While there have been times of concern this fleeing year, overall it was without problems. We got to enjoy a relaxing vacation atop the beautiful mountains of Colorado and saw the vast scenery of New Mexico. (I can't think of a color that I did not see in the rocks of that state!) I found again my confidence in my ability to teach (thanks, Mary!), and my enjoyment of my career has resurfaced. I'm so grateful for that; I was afraid I would retire doubting myself. Hopefully in the not too distant future, I'll look back on these past few years as the ones that taught me the most about not only myself, but dealing with others and nurturing little ones in those first years of school.

Overall, I think the best thing about this year is that I grew to love my husband and daughters in ways I never imagined. Andy and I reached 33 years of marriage in a day when most people just get tired or quit. We still laugh, love, and worship together, and I'm so proud of the man he is.

So, as this year turns to a new decade - I look into this coming year with confidence and expectation. I ask of God's blessing on all my loved ones and friends, and for peace in our land.

Happy New Year!!

Finding old friends

I'll confess; I joined Facebook because Jackie wanted me to "farm" with her. It's been fun setting them up, and keeping them going, and that would have been reason enough to like it. But the neatest part to me is recapturing old friends and distant relatives that I've lost touch with.

The first person I "found" was my niece, Amanda. I haven't seen her in probably 15 years; Dana has seen her once, and doesn't remember her at all. Divorce will do that to a family... anyway - she and I have become reacquainted, and I am glad.

Yesterday, I was approved as a friend with a woman that Andy and I knew in college in the 70's. Her mom and dad were my pseudo-parents away from home, and when they would go out, I'd watch their daughter. She was only about 5 years younger than me, but sometimes those are the kids that need the most watching. (Side-note: these people didn't have bedframes; they slept on matresses on the floor. Claimed he had a bad back....) Anyway, when I searched her name, there were 4 listed; she was the first one that popped up. Now, we begin the process of getting to know each other again. Such fun!

With that in mind, I have one person left I'd like to find; an old flame from Georgia. So far, no luck. But I'll keep looking from time to time!!

You never know....

I know a precious girl....

I know a precious young woman who is struggling right now. She is full of life and talent and has a loving, caring heart. Her home is full of little children who give her such pleasure and love, and she is learning to express herself beautifully through the art of photography. She has a full life ahead of her, and lots of people who love her.

Right now, things are rough. She is working very hard to straighten things out, and correct mistakes she has made. It may take a while, but I feel sure she will pull out of it. All of us fall to the depths of sorrow and regret that she is in right now, and we know where she is coming from. The hardest part will be forgiving herself - and accepting that Her Father has forgotten whatever she has asked. She will never be the same, but her life - it can be better than ever.

I'm pulling for her that all will be well soon -

Voices of the past

Earlier in the summer, Jackie made Farmville and Farmtown on Facebook sound like so much fun that I signed up. I am having lots of fun with both those farms; but the coolest part of it is that I've caught up with so many people!! Old classmates (one of whom asked me if I still walked on my toes!), old friends, and my niece that I haven't spoken to in 20+ years! My connection with her led to finding out that my brother's "wife" had passed away - can you tell we're close!?! - which led me to contacting my sister and her son. It's been very cool to reaquaint myself with everyone, and look forward to keeping up with them.

So, thanks, Jackie!!

3 days to go....

On Friday, I'm outta here - another year of teaching will go into the books, and another summer will begin. This is the first time I've ever worked into June, unless it was Summer School, and I can say, I don't like it; it's just wrong. I know; whine, whine, whine! :)

Last night, Andy and I drove into SA for a wonderful dinner with our friends from Ohio, Steve and Dianne, and their "new" daughter, Wynter. She just turned 13. They adopted her out of Foster care after their own 4 were grown; a sad, sad story with a happy ending. They told us all about the adoption ceremony and celebration a year ago, and she is a very sweet girl. She has "baggage" as all foster kids so, but with the Connell family as her own now, she has a future brighter than she can imagine.

We ended up at Spaghetti Warehouse - Andy loves that place! - and enjoyed our meal. We were just settling in to visit, when I see a man walking past the other tables and right up to ours, pulls out a chair, and begins to sit down, all the while asking Andy to buy him "dinner and a piece of chocolate cake." Huh?!? Andy asks him if he is supposed to even be in there, and the guy says, well, no; but could we buy him something to eat. Andy looks him in the eye, and sternly tells him, "I will buy you dinner, but you have to wait outside for me." The guys says; "And a piece of chocolate cake?" No, dinner and a glass of tea. So the guy leaves and goes to wait outside, Andy goes to the manager, and they talk. Seems the restaurant has a Criminal Trespass Order against him for doing this kind of thing, but if Andy wants, he can buy him some food. So, the Probation Officer orders him spaghetti and tea, and takes it to him outside; asking him tons of questions, and taking him to the side table to be away from the door. We sit there, all the while, trying to keep Wynter in her chair, because she is fascinated by all this and wants to go with Andy and "see the guy". Turns out he is Paranoid /Schitzophrenic (sp) and off his meds. Andy tells him what he wants him to do and comes back to the table with us.

I have to tell you, I was nervous when he left us to go get the car - watched too many movies, I guess.

Welcome to San Antonio, Wynter Connell!!

54 and counting

Well. 54 has come and reared it's ugly head in my life. I told Dana that while it doesn't "sound" old to me, 55 does. I hope it doesn't go too fast!!

Went to a wedding the other day, and sat with a friend I met when I was 6 years old. We have been through all of life's scenarios: teen years, falling in love and marriage, my children, her widowhood... you get the picture. At one point, we were estranged due to some bad decisions on both our parts, but we overcame that and stay in touch. She is now in love again, and we are facing our retirement years with anticipation. Most of all, we have our common Lord. When He is the basis of a friendship, it is the best. I hope we both have many years to come.

Andy brought me roses on my birthday. Love does get better as it grows....

Happy January 1st

Someone on the radio yesterday said, "I am so glad this year is over - it was a horrible year!"

How can you look back over a year of your life, and proclaim it "Horrible?" I will say, 1990-91 was a low point; my dad died and it was the worst year of my teaching career, but I won't say the whole year was horrible. That is the year I met Mary Beth, who became a dear friend and sister in Christ, and I learned things about myself that were necessary to get me through the traumas that hit me. Not bad things at all.

This past year is one with good memories to recall. Following several medical proceedures the previous year, I was healthy and blessed with good reports as follow-ups. I began a new teaching assignment in the fall which has renewed my confidence in my career and introduced me to new co-workers who are very supportive and appreciative of my efforts. I grew in my love and appreciation of my husband, and my daughters developed into more wonderful, Christ-filled women before my eyes. And, oh yes, Elizabeth was born. So, all in all, not a bad 2008.

I look forward to this year on many fronts. I see retirement nearing and our financial status improving. I know that God is going to continue to watch over me and mine, and that His ways will bless us.

So, I wish for you good memories of the past year, and hope for good things ahead. Watch for happiness, and choose to see the good in each day. Look into the eyes of a child and find love and excitement. Sing.

Huntsville on my mind

Lately, I've been thinking about Huntsville a lot. It's where Andy and I met, married, had Dana, and lived very happily for about 10 years. Our dear friends, the Tissues, were a big part of our happiness, as was the congregation where we worshipped. I've often said leaving Huntsville was one of the saddest days of my life. And lately, I want to go back and visit - to see the campus of our youth (I don't know if I could manuever the hills or not!), to attend worship with the saints there, and to feel and see the beauty of East Texas.

I think the reason for my yearning is Liz. This part of Erin and Gregg's life takes me back there - before we knew that life can be hard, and dreamed big dreams - some of which have come true, but not all. It was a sweet time for us, and I'd like to renew that feeling, if just for a few days....

Most of the people we knew there are no longer there; some from moving, but most from passing from this life to the next. The Lasaters, Bro. Kramer, Faye Lassiter, Betty Waldron and more. They played a role in our life of example, caring and faithfulness. The Tissues have moved on in their life as well, and driving through the old neighborhood makes me sad, but also brings back sweet, sweet memories of when my babies were young and we thought our whole life was still ahead of us.

Long ago, we said we would return there to live at retirement, but I don't think that will happen. Our life is here, now, and I imagine we will stay. But sometimes, lately, I sure miss Huntsville!!

What, a post without the Spurs in it???!!

Greetings after a week away; I'm back to writing on my home computer which is tentative at best, so posts will depend on its "mood." I'll do my best, but be patient....

People who are not involved in teaching just don't get it. I'm about ready to just give up trying to explain that the end of the year is traumatic. I guess the closest I would come would be if you quit your job and had to pack up everything in boxes and walk away after completing 6 surveys, checking everything off 5 lists, turning in everything you've checked out from 10 different people, and then walking away from the kids you've given your heart and soul to for 9 months, wondering like crazy if you've made any difference in their life. I'm really trying not to whine - I don't like whiners - but why does everyone I talk to think I need to "do something" immediately after school is over?!?! My in-laws, neighbors, and even dear friends are probably tired of looking at my glazed-over eyes whenever they ask me what I'm going to "do", but until my brain is rested and quiet, I have no plans. None. The first couple of weeks, I'm on coast. Rest. Vegge. The old Amy will arise again in time, but until then, know that I am doing what I need mentally to adjust to the end of a long, stressful year.

Now, that rant's over.

Had a wonderful visit with my dearest friend, Shanon. She came over and we talked, and talked, and talked. Played a new game so she could beat Andy, and took a nice nap one afternoon. Other than that, we talked.... I love her with my whole heart, and when I am with her, I realize how much I wish she was in my life more often. She's seen the best and worst in me, and has seen me grow into a better woman through the years. I've seen her at depths of sorrow and anger that no one should have to face, and she has come out of it with her faith in the Lord to sustain her. We strive very hard to hold on to a friendship that could easily be given up on considering the miles between us, but we won't let it. I am so grateful for that.
She calls me her "forever friend" and I am honored. I feel the same.

Thanks for coming, dear friend. I miss you already -

Changing Perspective

I love Jackie Hutton. Since she came into my life way back in the 20th century, my life has been so much more fun. She makes me laugh when no one else can, and is very adept at reading me. She is a blessing in every way and I thank God for her.

Tuesday night, she fussed at me, and I am taking what she said to heart. I am hooking up my answering machine tonight.

Years ago, we had an answering machine. We unplugged it and destroyed it because the only messages we ever got were either creditors wanting payments we didn't have, or my mother calling to complain or demand. It was not something we ever wanted to listen to again, so why have one of the instruments of torture?!

So. Last Christmas, we are celebrating with the Huttons and exchange gifts. With lots of love, we are presented with a brand new answering machine!! And as I write this post, it is still sitting in the box beside my couch. Everyday, I look at it, and know I need to hook it up, but the past invades my good intentions.

Not today. I have had a revelation, and when I get home, I am hooking it up. I've realized that the demons of the past are gone, and that now it is a messenger of love and good tidings from family and friends. It will be a connection once again to the people I love.

So. Please call and leave words of encouragement. I may falter....

While you were sleeping

Happy New Year, friends and family!
One of my favorite movies is "While You Were Sleeping" and there's a line that fits me today. Jack and his dad are at the table, and the dad says something like, "You work hard and do you best, and then - one day- it all comes together and everyone is happy is safe."
That's me today. Somewhere in the past few months, things began to fall into place, and today - the first day of a new year, I feel that way. Erin and Gregg are starting to look at buying their first home, and Dana is in the beginning of a new relationship with a man we feel fits her like no one has before. Our lives are peaceful and, thankfully, healthy. We have been blessed this past year in so many, many ways, and it's almost scary to think about how good this all feels.
I hope your 2008 treats you as well!

My sweetest gift, so far....

I hope everyone is feeling peaceful and happy the day after Christmas; I am home alone - Dana will be in after a while, Andy works today and tomorrow; and the Johnsons arrive Friday for the LaMore round of festivities.
We had a lovely, quiet day. Talked to Mom and Dad, ate blueberry muffins for breakfast, opened gifts, watched the latest installment of Looney Tunes, and then went to the Huttons for dinner. Delicious Cornish Game Hens - my first ever. They really wanted to build the anticipation, because they took twice the normal time to cook. A feast with friends; what more could one ask?! Thanks, R & J !
Monday, I received the sweetest gift I've gotten in a while. We'd been out and came home to wrap gifts, a call came in with a number I did not recognize. I usually don't answer, but it was Christmas Eve, so I did. This little voice asks for me, and identified herself as my little Amiga from last school year! She'd come across my number while looking at her "favorite" books, and wanted to wish me a Merry Christmas! I put "favorite" in quotes because she's one of my most severely dyslexic students ever, and to have favorite books makes me crazy!! Anyway, she clued me in on all her latest happenings - they're spending the holidays visiting all the family bars; she loves to sing with the Karaoke machines! She is writing country songs for when she becomes famous, and she got a straightener for her lovely, curly blond hair. Her little girl voice filled my heart so full joy that it was all I could do to respond. She's one of those I would bring home with me and raise, if I thought I could. I hope she calls for years to come!!
Relax, enjoy your left-over pies, and watch a good movie.
Amy

Now, it begins!

My visit with Shanon was perfect. Two friends, a couch, a couple of salads, and lots of wonderful conversation. Andy keeps asking what we talked about, and I keep telling him, "everything." Now, I realize it was the past, the present and the future.

The past is always full of wonderful, fun memories; Meredith "tattling" on Dana before she could even speak, Meredith's and Erin's weddings, late nights of games and cheese-dip.

The present - teaching, church wonders and frustrations, motherly concerns about our grown children, and being married 30+ years to the same wonderful men.

The future is the most scary; retirement, aging, health and what is in store for us and those we love the most. I have faith in one thing, though - Shanon and Mark will be in the future with us, and that makes me VERY happy. I'm so very glad she came!!


Now, to the SPURS -- I feel nauceous!! It starts tonight, and I am literally shaking at the prospect of the SPURS actually losing to these guys --- does that mean I have no faith?!?! What if "he" actually is unstoppable?!? Can it be???

You just never know

Lord willing, Shanon will be at my dinner table in a few hours. She is coming over to spend a couple of days with me, to "catch up on life."

We met when our husbands worked together at a prison unit in Huntsville, before children and home ownership. Andy and Mark were buds together, and so it was natural that we meet. Soon afterwards, the place next door became available, and Mark and Shanon became our neighbors.

Shanon loves to antagonize Andy during games - we spent many hours together with Mark and I putting up with their battles, while Mark usually came from nowhere and won everything we did.

Anyway, in 1981, we left Huntsville. I think in many ways, it was the saddest and one of the most pivotal days of my life. I drove off with Shanon and their baby on their porch, waving bravely while Dana and I left for Brookshire.

We've kept up through moves and life for all these years, and love each other very much. For me, other friends have come and gone, and I've loved them all; and I think my friendship with Shanon showed me how to cherish people, even from a distance.

Now, it's just the two of us for a few days - don't expect to hear from me until she's gone back west; I don't want to give up a minute with her while she's here!!

What else, the SPURS !!

I know some of you are pretty darn tired of my writing about the SPURS - well, tough.

We won last night in a dazzling display of talent and desire - it was a blood bath that I usually don't enjoy watching, but last night was sweet. Those pesky Utah fans and the lack of respect from the media about my guys just filled me with such a rage that I could barely stay on my chair and eat my Chex mix!! Well, maybe not, but it was sweet to see the boys (old men!) show anyone who cared to watch that they've got more in them than people thought.

Now, though, we have a long wait until the next, and last, series begins. I appreciate them finishing it out so they don't have to play on Sat. - I'd have hated to mess up the family party by sittin in the den while they all were outside talking about boring stuff like FAMILY!! (Can you tell I"m feeling a little goofy today?)

Anyway, the next few days will be filled with wonderful visiting with friends and family, and wishing my nephew Matt well on his graduation. Real things, not sports, to refocus my perspective. On marking time and getting re-aquainted with dear friends, and seeing Roark!! Should be a wonderful weekend!

Come Monday - Shanon comes to town!!!

All Good Things Come to an End

Well, I'm back at school. Yesterday was the first day back, and it went pretty well. My legs and feet were tired and sore, but the stamina held up. Everyone I saw seemed glad to have me back, and the kids were so cute. My little Amigo, Cheyenne, stood back and looked at me a long time, not quite deciding what to do. I finally grinned at her and said, "If you want a hug, come on!" She came over and held on tight for a bit, then went back to get in line. Several people came in to visit, and even my custodian hugged me! How nice is that?!? Beth brought me back a WONDERFUL new cd from Tulsa Workshop, and I was singing along today. Medicine for my soul.

Today was a little more challenging. It's just going to take some time ....