My family came home about 5 yesterday.  I was so glad to see them home, safe and sound.  The kids were happy to see mom but I think they were a bit more excited to see Tucker!


We've spent the day getting laundry done, packing for our trip, etc.  It's been raining all day so we haven't felt like we missed out on anything!


I will give you details, and a picture or two, of the trip when I return.  Until then, may God smile upon you and give you peace.


Today's workout:  Slim Series Tone it Up; Yoga for Stress Relief segment.

A few tidbits from my day.  The dogs slept well.  The family is coming half way home and will be here tomorrow.  I spent about 45 minutes to an hour cleaning the house.  It will be dirty again by Sunday (LOL).  God is good.  I'm off to read my book, Leslie Meier's English Tea Murder.


Now for the real post today.  Mary Madison wanted to grow some vegetables this year.  So, my mother in law with the green thumb bought two grape tomato plants, one other tomato plant, and a green pepper plant.  Maddie and Tom planted them and have been diligent to water~sometimes too diligent!!  But, we have tomatoes and peppers.  


No one in the family seems to think to harvest them so, since the end of June, that's been my job.  And this week I've been watering as well.


Now, I'm as far from a farmer or gardener as God makes them.  I simply kill things.  My mother in law tells me it's because plants, like children and pets, need attention. Well, for the most part she's pegged me~I just don't think about taking care of green things.  But the good news is I do remember to make sure Tom, the kids, and the pets are provided for!!


But there is something simply spiritual about plants.  In a wonderful old movie with Jimmy Stewart, Shenandoah, there is a line at the beginning that grips me and makes me laugh every time.  Charlie Anderson, the character Jimmy plays, is getting ready to pray before a meal. He doesn't believe any of it but keeps praying out of love for his dead wife, Anne.  He says something like, "We tilled the ground, planted the seed, pulled the weeds, watered the plants, ...it grew because of our labor but we thank you just the same."  By the end of the movie, after the death of sons and a daughter in law during the Civil War, he tries to pray that prayer again and breaks down crying.  I like to think it's because his pride is broken enough to know that all things come from God, we are not in control at all.


That's why I love harvesting my little tomatoes and peppers.  I haven't done a thing to make the grow.  We can put the seed in the ground, but where did the seed come from?  We can't make it.  And, some plants live, some die and we can never be fully in control of all the events to ensure their survival.


As I was reading my Bible the other day, I came across this wonderful verse.  Psalm 104:14 says, "You make the grass for cattle and vegetables for the people.  You make food grow from the earth."  I'm so grateful to God for the mysterious, miraculous, marvelous ways he takes care of us~seen in my plump tomato that came from God's seed.


Today's workout:  Slim Series Mix it Up.  I'm also going to do Kathleen Anderson's Yoga in the Garden of Serenity shoulder section, I feel so loose after that.

My dogs went to bed at 10pm and didn't wake me until 6am, woo-hoo!  I got up and let them out and about 30 minutes later walked Tucker for 1/2 a mile and meandered with Penny a bit.  I had to have blood work drawn at 8am and then came home to tackle Tyler's pit of despair. It looks better now but it seems to be a neverending story since he's a pack rat!


I had lunch with my friend Beth and her daughter Kathryn.  I love Beth because she's a Christian and just a good friend.  I love that she is smitten with my son Tyler. And, I love that she loves and will talk about sports with me!  I think she's the only "face to face" girlfriend I have like that!!  ( I do have some homeschooling and home exercise buddies I've met in other states via the internet who make me look like a pseudo-fan, lol).


Since I gave blood today I wanted a workout that wasn't too sweaty so I chose an oldie~Yoga Mind and Body with Ali McGraw, although the yogi leading it is Erich Shiffmann.  I loved the workout but my favorite part is always savasana, or shavasana (Sanskrit word for corpse pose, or relaxation pose).  When I first started practicing yoga I STUNK at relaxation.  (You lie on your back, like a corpse, and give yourself over to relaxing).  My mind wandered and I felt tense trying to MAKE myself relax.


So, I began having prayer time during relaxation.  Then, I listened to some cues and would tense muscles and let them go.  And, over the course of a couple of years, I've learned to breathe deeply and relax so I feel really heavy on my yoga mat.


As I thought about this today, I was pondering my relationship with the Father.  I tend to focus on Him when I am in shavasana.  I am longing for my entire life with him to be a reflection of this pose~I lie heavy in his arms, letting him hold me up like waves in an ocean.  Or I lie my whole weight upon him, like lying back against a giant tree.  Trusting that he will hold me.  Like a baby at the mother's chest, completely relaxing, trusting, accepting.  


Paul says physical training is of some benefit, but training for godliness is far more important (Cheri's paraphrase).  Yes I'm more flexible, ache less, can do more since practicing yoga.  But the greatest benefit by far is that I've learned to rest in him, even for a little bit.  And that has made all the difference.


Father, teach me the way of trust and complete relaxation in you, at all times, for all things, in all ways.  You are so good to me.


What I'm watching:  I watched Miss Marple's Body in the Library, a BBC production with Joan Hickson.

Oh my goodness, my dogs were a mess last night.  I wrote about it on my homeschool moms board and will quote it here.



I do not know what was up with my dogs last night.  I'm convinced they took my car, went to McDonald's and ordered iced coffees, extra large.  They were WILD.  Penny wanted to go out at 2 am.  Tucker heard something that made him start barking at 1:30 am.  I finally put him in his crate and he barked off and on until after 3! :eek:  I let him go outside and checked on him, gave him water, etc.  He was just wound up. I wonder if it was the vet visit?


Anyway, after 4 I got to sleep and then the dogs wanted out at 6:30. :asleep:  I think I'm taking a nap today, lol.  I have a doctor's appointment at 2 but no other commitments.


And yes, I did take a 20 minute cat nap. The most annoying thing is that the dogs have slept most of the day, the beasts!


My doctor's appointment was just a regular check up and was fine.  Tomorrow I have blood work drawn and then I'm done until the next time.


Today's workout:  I did a 3 mile Leslie Walk from the Walk Club, iWalk Strong, aka 3 Really Big Miles.  Same set but different people and music, I really enjoyed it.  It was weird though, there was no stretching at the end so I did 10MS Yoga For Beginners Stress Relief and Flexibility segment because it hits the legs from every angle and feels great after cardio.  The dogs and I have taken a couple of walks too.


Gotta run~Tucker is barking his head off at Penny trying to interest her in playing.  Puppies!!!!

I'm enjoying my time alone but my goodness, it is quiet.  Except when I take Penny out for a walk alone and Tucker barks and kicks up a fuss about it.


Tucker had a check up at the vet today and got a clean bill of health.  He got a booster and his heartworm and flea medication (which now comes in one fabulous pill, for the same price of the flea medicine) and generally had a great time.  He loved the vets, and licked the ear of the assistant holding him, LOL.  He also tried to make friends with and play with all the other dogs and cats there.  I could tell one woman was ready to smack me because  Tucker kept trying to sniff her puppy, which was on her lap encased in a blanket more expensive looking than the one on my bed.  He is probably her sweet angel.  Tucker didn't scare him but the lady was most unhappy. At this point I put ole Tucker in the car and then went back to pay my bill.  


I watched a documentary on The History Channel, fed pets, took pets, out, watered plants, etc.  The usual kind of life stuff.  I've not done a DARN thing around the house, all that can start tomorrow.  For now, I've just enjoyed lounging with my furry friends.

And here is a random reminder for all of us that the brutal heat will not last forever!  Hey, laugh all you want, it was a big snow for us.  And yes, this is the church where we are currently privileged to serve alongside some of God's most awesome saints.


Today's workout:  Slim Series Shape it Up.  I absolutely adore the Slim Series workouts by Debbie Seibers (through a company called BeachBody).  They are high repetition/low weight workouts and have a cardio effect as well, killing two birds with one stone so to speak.  I think I'll do three or four of them a week for a bit, adding in a couple of days of cardio, along with some other online home fitness workout fanatics I've met, lol.


Tonight will be some yoga from Jill Miller's Yoga Tune Up Quick Fix DVD.  I'm thinking wrists and feet, as I often neglect stretching and caring for those areas.

Yesterday is somewhat of a blur to me.  I have been having a problem with my Eustachian tube in my right ear(at least I think that's where the pain is I've been having). Usually it will go away after a few days and some Claritin but it had been bothering me nearly a month. I went to the doctor and, like a three year old, was told I had discolored fluid behind both ear drums so I got some penicillin for an ear infection.  


Later I got my medicine(after only two days my ear does feel better~I hate taking medication and haven't had an antibiotic for two years, but guess it was warranted), ran errands for Tom and the kids, etc.  When I got home Tyler and Maddie's friends were here so we got dinner ready, packed luggage, etc.  By the time bedtime rolled around I was tired and ready to sack out.


Today I got all 5 kids up and ready for church. After church, Wes wanted to go by Barnes and Noble and get a copy of The Fellowship of the Ring by J.R.R. Tolkien to take on vacation. He has read The Hobbit in two days and he's usually  more of an information reader than a novel reader!   When we got home, Wes' friend Josh was here.  Tom finally got free from church, I ran two last minute errands for him while he, Wes and Josh packed up the van. By the time they pulled out of the drive around 3pm I was ready to listen to the sound of silence.


Okay, true confession is I miss them.  But, I'm ready to enjoy not cooking every night. Eating when I want, going to bed when I want.  Cleaning out Tyler's closet, cleaning baseboards, the fridge.  Things I don't normally have time for.  And, having lunch with a friend.


So, tonight I'm hanging out with the dogs, enjoying the silence.  And, praying for my family who are all so precious to me.


Saturday's workout:  Angie Gorr Custom 3 Fit (50/50 Cardio and Weights)


What I'm watching:  The Cincinnati Reds and Atlanta Braves play baseball.  I've not watched a single baseball game all season, not even the All Stars!  And, since I grew up in the 70s in the Big Red Machine Era, I'm rooting for my Reds, even though I now live in Braves Country.

Today's post is entitled Snapshots.  6:30 am, a dog licks my hand.  Out for a quick walk.  Pop a workout in and press play.  Eat and shower, out the door to run errands.  Library with the kids.  Laughter and fun.  Discussions about what we like to read.  Lunch and a short nap, aaahhhh.....Sorting through clothing, a quick break for a snack.  Wes tells jokes, Tom tells riddles, we all laugh.  Dinner together.  Finish watching The Eagle.  Take Tucker on a walk~HOT!!  Yoga while I'm warm and stretchy.  Feed Penny and give her her medicine.  Read a bit of a book.  Tyler plays with a friend.  Kids listen to CDs of favorite books on tape.  Wes reads part of the Hobbit.  Tom works on his laptop.  Cicadas sing as night begins to settle in.  Another day to praise God, for he is so good.


Today's workout:  AM~Firm Calorie Explosion(cardio with light hand weights); PM~1 mile dog walk and Jill Miller Yoga Tune Up Post-Athletic Stretch, Golf.


What I'm reading:  Agatha Christie's Murder on the Links since I just watched the movie version with Suchet.

I can't even remember all the things that happened today.  I got up and did the usual~which lately means getting the crockpot ready!  Our grill is about kaput (but it is too hot to grill anyway) and no way do I want to turn the oven on!  Thank goodness for the appliance that sits on my counter and cooks for me, lol.  


I had to take Maddie to Kmart to get some things for the beach and the boys tagged along. It is such a big treat for them to go and look at the video games, school supplies, books, etc.  Sometimes it's the simple things, don't you think?


Tom had errands to run in Atlanta and got to see his sister on her birthday.  That doesn't happen much for them and it made him really happy.  He got home just in time for dinner and then did some reading with the kids and is playing a game with Tyler.  Wes and I are getting ready to watch the movie The Eagle, which I raved about back in February~it's out on DVD and we got it from Netflix.


I pray that whatever your day has held you are able to find some time to spend doing something you love with someone you love.  Those are just two of my favorite things.


Today's workout:  Erin O'Brien Strong Body Fit Body, one of my all-time favorite, kick it compound (upper and lower together) weight workouts~if you've not figured it out by now!  I just finished Jill Miller's Yoga Tune-Up Post Athletic Stretch, Swimming.  That had some lovely upper body stretches.


What I'm reading:  The latest issue of The Old Schoolhouse homeschooling magazine.

This was one of those days where nothing much seemed to happen but lots of learning was taking place.  We did some reading, the kids had piano lessons, ran to the store, made plans for dinners the rest of the week, did laundry....In the midst of it all, we found plenty of time to talk.  And laugh.  So, although my post is short today, I pray you find time for joy in the midst of the ordinary. Sometimes, it's the best kind of fun.


Today's workout:  Leslie Sansone 3 Mile Firming Walk with stretch band; PM   Jill Miller Yoga Tune Up Quick Fix wrists and feet.

Today was productive.  Got my pedometer issues settled (they're sending a replacement), picked a lot of salad tomatoes that Maddie has been growing, walked Tucker, and helped a gal move. She was moving her furniture into a second story apartment and had no help so Wes, Tom and I went and helped her out for a bit.


When I got home I was so hot I immediately took a cool shower.  Then, since it was already almost 5pm, we decided to have pizza night tonight, not Friday. It was fun to do something different anyway, as Pappa John's sells $5 pizzas here on Tuesday nights so we had pizza, salad, and fruit.  Yummmy!!!!!!


After dinner the kids and I walked Tucker around the block and discussed what had gone on with our days, various truths in the book of Proverbs, and how to get along with people.  Sometimes the best serendipities are created through the simple gift of time.


Today's workout:  Weight Loss Cardio Kick (Powersculpting); Weight Loss Cardio Sculpt Extended Stretch.  Tonight is Jill Miller's PAS, Cycling stretch.

Ever have those days?  I got up and began getting ready to exercise. DH and I got the dogs out and back in, fed, etc.  I started to exercise and my pedometer broke~the clip that holds it on came off.  So, I got my old one out, emailed our insurance pedometer program company, and kept on!


The kids have been asking me about going to see Harry Potter and The Deathly Hallows, Part 2.  We're totally behind the times seeing it, the opening date was Friday, lol.  Tom said that Ty could stay at the office with him and read, play a game, etc.  So Maddie, Wes and I went to the 1:45 showing.  I thought they did a great job with the movie and we're all a little sad that there won't be any more Harry Potter movies to look forward to seeing.


 I watched the final battle, mesmerized as Voldemort (the evil figure in the Harry Potter books) was killed as his own spell turned against him and he turned to ashes that floated away.  As this happened,  I was thinking of the themes of good versus evil, and mostly love and God reminded me of this:  Ashes to Ashes, Dust to Dust.  Keep things in perspective.  All things are created by God and are temporary.  Nothing but God and his purposes will prevail for eternity. So, what am I investing my time in with the most passion and purpose?  Are my choices being made for the things that will last?  


The things I most want to impact for eternity are people.  At the moment, God has placed three wonderful children and a husband in my life and I want to make each day count for them, being salt, light, and a witness.  Showing forth agape type love that keeps on in the best interest of the other person, whether it's reciprocated or not. And, for this, I'm so glad I have the person of the Holy Spirit in my life.


What about you?  Are you making choices for things that will last?  Like Harry are our choices, for the most part (because we are all imperfect)reflecting love?  I hope so.  That way one day we'll hear the Father say, "Well done, good and faithful servant."  Because everything else will end up like Voldemort~nothing but dust in the wind.


Today's workout:  Powerfit Harmony Cardio, Speed Burn; Tonya Larson Pure Pump~weight workout one and stretch.

This morning I was determined to spend some time reflecting, preparing for my week and for worship.  I got ready, got the kids up and moving, and slipped away for about 20 minutes all alone.  I set up my notebook for the coming week, looked back over last week, and read my Bible/prayed.  Somehow, Sunday School and worship were much more meaningful for me today. Thank you, Lord, for allowing me the privilege of participating in worship with a community of believers.


This afternoon I went to Barnes and Noble on my own.  I picked up a homeschool magazine that has a great unit study to do on the Appalachian Trail and some information on camping, teaching math and physics.  Looks like a lot of fun ideas there.  I also got a book to read next week while everyone is at the beach. It's called The Dirty Life by Kristen Kimball.  http://www.amazon.com/Dirty-Life-Memoir-Farming-Food/dp/1416551611/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1310940946&sr=8-1  It came highly recommended and I'm excited about reading it.  It is about a woman who leaves a city life in New York to start an organic farm with a man she falls in love with and marries.  From what I can tell it's one of those books that "everyone" is reading and talking about.


I pray all of you have a blessed, restful Sunday.

Today started off with a lot of misty rain, overcast skies, etc.  It later became partly sunny and it was about 87, perfect weather.  Tom got a nice run in and I had time for some cardio.  


This afternoon we went to our Holiday Inn Express where they had a show and were purchasing gold and silver.  They had  lot of neat coins, old bills, and other collectibles out and the boys loved seeing all of it.  On a day when we had nothing much plan there was a learning serendipity after all!


Tucker is definitely feeling better.  He is full of energy and I'm feeling "Tucker'd" out, pun intended.  Actually it's nice to see him playful again.  In fact, I'm headed out for a walk with him soon.


I looked through my week of Bible study.  There were several truths that I want to remember.  I thought I'd share a couple with all of you.


"Seeing is not believing; believing is seeing."  Lenya Heitzig, Penny Pierce Rose


"In commanding us to glorify Him, God is inviting us to enjoy Him."  C.S. Lewis


As we approach Sunday, go forth and worship God.  In doing so, 
enjoy him greatly. It's what we are created for.


Today's workout:  Ramping 1-2-3 Cardio; Jill Miller Post-Athletic Stretch, Running.  I borrowed the Jill Miller Yoga workouts from a friend and love, love them. They are definitely yoga but hit just the right spots and improve your ability to do other activities.  Highly recommended.

I have no idea what I was doing last night that kept me from writing.  My MIL and FIL brought Wes home in the afternoon (and brought us a recliner, which we definitely could use).  Then I did a quick cardio workout and some yoga before dinner.  After dinner I sat down to watch a documentary on the Saxons that I'd DVRd on the Military History Channel (I'm such a strange bird, I love stuff like that). After that I was so tired I was asleep by 10.  Exciting day, huh?


Today has been very low key but so nice. It's overcast here and about 82 degrees.  All week long I've gone out with the dogs at 6am and just sweated in the heat and humidity so this is a welcome relief. 


As far as what we've done today, Maddie has been reading the first Rick Riordan book and listening to the second one on tape. Ty's been reading a Lemony Snickett's book and on the computer working on a book of his own he's writing. It's very good, by the way, full of nice images and interesting dialogue.  Wes has been working in the basement with his dad.  I think he deserves a medal for that!


Tonight is pizza night and then we're watching the Yogi bear movie.  I'm looking forward to us all hanging out together and just being a family.


Today's workout:  Angie Gorr Custom 3 Fit workout(50/50 cardio and weights); Jill Miller Quick Fix, 10 minute shoulder sequence and 10 minute hip sequence.

Poor Penny has the kennel cough too.  I called the vet last night and got her some medicine but she still coughed a lot in the night, keeping Tom and I awake. So I slept in this morning until 7:30 and skipped my morning workout.  I then got Tucker and Penny settled and happy and then ran some errands. 


While I was out,  I found a couple of great, inexpensive resources for homeschool. One lists all the grammar rules, one all the basic algebraic equations.  They are hole punched and laminated so the kids can use them for quick references.  Nothing fancy, but it will be quicker than stopping to look everything up on the Internet.


My friend Anna called to say she was going to bring Tyler all the way home from Chattanooga.  Mary Madison decided to give Ty a gift and, while I did 2 miles of cardio with my gal Leslie Sansone, she cleaned up Tyler's room for him. We will all now take bets on how long it takes him to totally trash it again.  Any guesses????


When Anna got here, she left her children, Mary Jane and Garrison here for about two hours to hang out with my kids.  They had a great time playing with Tucker, who was feeling good enough to prance about with them!


Tonight I'm planning on getting to the Soul Sweat yoga that I didn't get to last night because I ended up finishing my Miss Marple show on PBS instead.


Today's workout:  Leslie Sansone Power Walk with Friends, 2 miles; Soul Sweat yoga (as soon as I'm done).  Tucker and I took a couple of short walks too.


What I'm reading:  Lots of homeschooling resources, trying to finalize plans for the coming school year.

God absolutely knows what he is doing.  The gift of sleeping in was a total serendipity, an unexpected gift.  Tom, Wes, and Ty were gone.  Maddie slept in (of course, she's a 13 yo teen) but both dogs slept in a bit.  And, I needed it since last night something woke me at 2:30 a.m. and it was about 4 before I fell asleep again!


Today I got the dogs up and taken out, fed, settled down, etc.  Maddie has been helping me with both boys gone but she does like to sleep in a bit~about 8-9, which honestly isn't bad.  Tom was gone to his spin class so the house was quiet.  I enjoy puttering around the yard and road with the dogs in the morning. 


Mary Madison and I later ran some errands.  I grabbed my Bible study materials and Maddie grabbed a book and we headed to Panera Bread.  I had $1 off a scone so I bought that for Maddie and we enjoyed some quiet time to read and chat about what's been going on in our lives.  What a gift that was.  We also ran to the library before coming home.


While Maddie and Tom were at piano lessons, I did a second workout of the day, which I've been enjoying in the summer. I went to the store, Home Depot, the vet, normal kinds of stuff you need to get done.  


I've discovered how much I love talking to the Father in the car.  Sometimes I listen to the Chronicles of Narnia series by Focus on the Family.  But, a lot of the time I don't have a radio on or any noise.  In the stillness I find things to say to God that I just blurt out.  I'm a most impatient drive and those attitudes often spark me to pray for the person I'm irritated with or thank God that they are cautious drivers.  And, I find that God begins to change me in the process~and I need a lot of changing.


It's funny, I've been finding serendipities everywhere.  I just love looking for God sightings around every corner, don't you? (P.S. One of the best was Maddie mopping the kitchen floor~she does the best job at it of anyone)!!


Today's workout:  Slim Series Cardio Sculpt (upper body and a bit of cardio); Xtend Barre warmup, barre, and stretch (lower body).  Tonight I'm craving the yoga routine from Soul Sweat.  In 12 minutes it hits everything and relaxes me to no end.


What I'm watching:  Agatha Christie's The Pale Horse that I recorded from PBS.  I'm prejudiced and think that Joan Hickson is THE penultimate Miss Marple.  This production stars Julia McKenzie, who I like somewhat, but forget a movie with Geraldine McEwan, she seems totally un-Miss Marple like.  Plus, the productions starring McEwan reshape the plots and characters, especially Miss Marple herself, until they are unrecognizable.  Well, so far I'm enjoying this production.  It's not the same, of course~in fact, Miss Marple doesn't even appear in the original story.  But, it's not too artistic and Ms. Mackenzie appears to be a sympathetic and intelligent person.  I hope to finish it up tonight, if Tom and Maddie let me near the TV!

I should totally be embarrassed to admit this but I slept 9.5 hours last night.  I was asleep by 9:45 and didn't get up until 6:45, when I heard Tucker barking in his crate.  I let him out to go to the bathroom, and then went back to bed for another half hour of sleep.  I really needed to catch up as I'm a good 8 hour a night person and had been getting around 6 hours a night a lot of last week.  It felt great.  


Okay, in that vein, I have to confess that Tyler thinks I'm totally creepy.  I keep a little notebook where I track my life.  Seriously.  I figure if I don't have accountability built in somewhere, I'll just drift instead of using my time wisely.  So, I base my weekly plan on the following verse of scripture:


Luke 2:52 "And Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, in favor with God and with men." (NIV)  So, my little notebook is organized as follows:


1)Wisdom (growing mentally).  I have a place for each day of the week to write down something I did that day to grow in wisdom (reading, discussions, watching a documentary, etc).  Not my Agatha Christies, lol, something to challenge my mind.


2)Physically (stature)~this referred to Jesus growing from boyhood to manhood but I track what I do to keep my temple as healthy as possible. The sub sections here are:
   A)Workouts/Walks, etc.
   B)Hours of Sleep Each Night
  C)Food Log


I can look back and see if I'm feeling out of sorts how much sleep I'm getting, what I'm eating (this is great if I feel "off", I can check for things I might have let slip into my diet that I'm allergic to, etc.), if I'm moving enough, etc.  


3)In Favor with God~Spiritually My sub-sections here are:
   A)Prayer
  B)Bible Reading
  C)Bible Study


I have a spot to check off each day if I've had prayer time, read my daily Bible (I read through a Bible each year, Tom started me on that path) and Bible Study that I do Monday through Friday.  Again, a lot of missed checks staring me in the face may indicate why I'm short of temper, etc.


4)In Favor With Men~Relationally  I have a section for each day of the week to record something I did for someone else. I think it's very important not to take in from God without giving out~you become like a pond with a lot of  "scum" rather than a river of living water, coming from the Source of Living Water (again, I have my husband to thank for this revelation).


So, there you have it.  How I knew I was neglecting my sleep and what to do about it.  You may think I'm crazy like Tyler, or may be  intrigued.  I encourage you somehow, somewhere, to build accountability into your life so you can make each day count.


P.S.  Yes, some days I'm just lazy and completely admit it in my notebook.  In fact, I find nothing wrong with an occasional day of this, it will refresh me to no end.


Today's workout:  Kristi Yamaguchi Power Workout with my gal Erin O'Brien (intervals of cardio and weights).


P.S.  Tucker seems to be doing better.  Still sleeping resting a lot because when he gets excited he coughs. But, spitting up less water and eating and drinking.  

Last night Tucker started sort of coughing and would spit up water. He was still doing the same things this morning so I called the vet that was on call. I was very worried about parvo, although he didn't really have the symptoms. He met me at the office and Tucker has Kennel Cough, or bordatella. Poor guy, he's got a runny nose, not eating much, tired, etc. The vet gave him a clean bill of health otherwise, said he's 5 months old roughly, 20 pounds. He gave Tucker an injection and then 7 days of antibiotics that we are to give him. He was at the shelter all of 5 days before we adopted him and he still picked this stuff up. However, we're very grateful that it's treatable, as the kids were worrying that it would be something awful that couldn't be treated (I was worried too). He's finally eaten a bit and been drinking lots of water and seems a bit more energetic. I hate it for the little guy, it's like flu/bronchitis in humans.



Church was really nice today. All the youth who went on the mission trip to Alabama had a slide show and shared with the congregation about their trip.  Then the congregation had a "Welcome Back McElroys" reception for us with cake and punch.


Afterwards, we came home and Wes and Tom packed up to head to Atlanta.  Wes is staying there this week to work with my MIL/FIL and just spend some time with them.  Tom has some work in Atlanta, and will be home tomorrow.


Tyler also got packed and I checked things and I took him to Calhoun, GA to meet his buddy Garrison (the one in the pic with Rocky last week).  He's going to stay in Chattanooga with them for a few days, and is so excited. They've missed one another so much.


It's funny the vet told me to keep Tucker quiet as exercise can cause him to cough more.  A little bit ago he went outdoors and saw the cat, ran over to play with him, coughed and spit up some water. Sigh, it's hard to keep a puppy still with a house full of kids and pets.  So, I guess the planning of the boys being gone this week is a good serendipity.  Plus, Maddie and I are looking forward to some "girl power" time.


What I'm reading:  This is actually "what I'm listening to now".  Mary Madison checked out the first book of The Kane Chronicles by Rick Riordan, The Red Pyramid, on CD.  She and Tyler have been sharing them at night. Well, Ty wanted me to listen to them so I got most of the way through the first CD driving to Calhoun and back.  It's very similar to the Percy Jackson series he wrote, which Ty, Maddie and I love. The Percy books center around Greek Mythology and the Kane Chronicles around Egytian mythology. So far, an entertaining "read."

Well, people, I got to sleep in until 7pm today!  I feel like doing a happy dance, LOL.  We had rain last night and it was still lightly sprinkling. Tom took Tucker around the block while I walked around a bit with Penny. The kids were sleeping in later since it was about 11 before they got home last night and Wes had a buddy spending the night with us.  I actually like it when I'm up alone and it's quiet.


Tom decided to go run. He goes to the Y and parks, runs outdoors, through our neighborhood, etc, and then ends up at the Y for the sauna, shower, etc.  Halfway through his run he came home and got Tucker and took him.  He wore the poor puppy out!  That dog came home, ate out of his dog bowl while lying down and then slept for a solid hour.


Tom and I went to get a soda this afternoon and talk through our budget/spending plan, etc.  Not my favorite thing to do but we're trying to make changes so we get no big surprises.  


Oh, the other highlight of my day was buying Aloe Vera gel for all the burned kids and husband after a day on the water.


Today's workout:  Molly Fox Skinny Jeans (weights, focusing mostly on lower body and core);Xtend Barre Upper Body.  And, of course, Penny and Tucker walks!  I'm planning to do some stretchy yoga tonight, really looking forward to that.

I told my family last night that I loved them dearly but I'd been getting up early with Tucker and I needed to sleep in. They agreed.  So I slept until 6am.  Um, not what  I meant!  I got up with a lot of grace, poise and kindness(yeah right, Tom told me to go back to bed, lol) when I heard Tucker barking as Tom was taking Penny out.  It worked out well because I walked Tucker for 1/2 a mile or so, ran an errand for Tom, helped the kids get ready to leave for their water park trip, and then exercised.  


I fully intended to do Ellen Barrett's Yogini this afternoon for some invigorating yoga, but the dogs had other plans.  I ended up walking Tucker around the block three times and playing with him in the house and out in the back yard.  He's very smart, eager to please, and doing remarkably well with his potty training!  


I did take a short nap today while the dogs slept, ran a quick errand, and watched a documentary on The Plague. All in all, not a bad day at home alone!


Today's workout:  Angie Gorr's Custom 3 Fit Weight workout;  lots of doggie walking!

Since I posted a picture of Tucker, I thought I'd show you a picture of the world's best pooch, aka Rocky.  This was taken about two months before he died.  Tom, Tyler, Ty's friend Garrison, and Rocky participated in a Lymphoma Walk in Atlanta, for my SIL Leslie.  After the walk was over, Tom took this picture of Ty, Garrison and Rocky.  Garrison and his family have moved to Chattanooga, TN, thus we've experienced a double loss.  So, this picture is especially sweet to me.

Isn't my poochie precious?  And my son's pretty good-looking too, as is his buddy Garrison!

I've been reading a fabulous book by Elisabeth Elliot, On Asking God Why.  Elisabeth is an 84 year old woman who has suffered the death of two husbands and still kept serving God through missions and speaking and writing ministries to women.  She's solid.  She's biblical.  She's REAL.  The back of her book says, "I seek the lessons God wants to teach me, and that means that I ask why."  

Today I was reading something that says, loosely paraphrased, God cares way more about our character, being transformed into the image of Jesus, than our comfort.  We experience discipline in this life to become more like him.  That often includes loss.  Through letting go, offering things up to the Father, we can relate to Jesus.  He left his throne, was rejected, experienced the agonizing death of a criminal.  For you.  For me.  

So, I take comfort that God is El Roi, the God Who Sees.  El Shaddai, The All-Sufficient One.  He knows. He cares.  And, through the incarnation, he takes that one step further.  He is Emmanuel, God With Us.  Now that's consolation that brings joy.

Yesterday's workout:  Leslie Sansone Walk Blaster Shape and Burn with 2 1/2 pound weights (about three miles).

Today's workout:  Ramping Cardio Express; Slim Sculpt with Ellen Barrett(pilates style strength and cardio with light weights)

And, we've taken lots of little doggie walks in the past two days, with Penny and Tucker.

What I'm watching:  I saw part of Suchet as Poirot in Peril at End House.  So far, I'm enjoying it a lot.  Sticks close to the story line and is well done.  

Today was a busy day here.  I got up early and exercised, showered, etc.  All three kids were up with the birds too!  So, by 9:50 am, we were at the local animal shelter and adopted our new addition to the family.  Introducing Tucker, the Australian Shepherd mix puppy!

We wanted to adopt a pet  from our local animal shelter, knowing we were saving a pup.  We think he's probably about 6 months old.  We've spent the day helping him get acquainted with Penny, our beagle, and the cats.  So far he's a very sweet boy, content to play with all animals and people.  We feel truly blessed.


Today's workout:  Slim Series Mix it Up; Afternoon 13 minute leg workout from Cindy Crawford's Shape Your Body 1, talk about a blast from the past!  We also walked Tucker and Penny together this evening.

Happy 4th of July.  It was a different holiday for us as Tyler and Tom are struggling with colds.  I'm pretty sure Tom has a sinus infection.  I get them a couple of times a year but it's been a long time since he's been sick!  We've had colds and and all the kids and I had the flu this winter~it was AWFUL~but he avoided it.  Don't know why, but it caught him now. After lying low for yesterday and today, he does seem to be feeling a bit better.


Maddie and I went to the grocery and got some food for our dinner.  Usual fare, burgers, slaw, potato salad, watermelon, etc.  Tom is a true southern boy and wanted turnip greens too!!


Wes helped me with some cleaning in the kitchen and then Tyler and I watched the latest Poirot, Halloween Party.  Of the three new ones that just aired this summer, this was my favorite~it was the closest to the original story.


Now it's pouring rain and we're settling in.  Even though the day ended up being quiet and different for us, we just enjoyed being together.


Today's workout:  20 minutes of cardio with Amy Dixon; Erin O'Brien's Strong Body, Ageless Body weight workout.

Tom wasn't feeling 100 percent yesterday.  By last night he sounded like he had a cold brewing.  Today he sounds AWFUL.  After church he has laid low, watching the Wimbledon matches he recorded and some James Bond.  It's funny to watch him sit still for so long~his idea of rest normally is to clean out the basement, jog or play tennis.  Tyler is feeling the tail end of his cold and is coughing a bit but seems like he's much better.


This afternoon we all stayed in.  Maddie is listening to a book on tape; Tyler is reading the comics and building some Lego creations; Wes took care of the cats he's watching and has been chatting with a friend, reading, and playing a bit of Xbox.  It's in the upper 90s so we're going to walk tonight after it cools off a bit.


Maddie and I did go to the mall.  I needed some face powder.  I buy it from Clinique and it's the only expensive cosmetic or skin care product I purchase and I only get it 2 times a year but I still hate shelling out money for stuff like that.  Maddie went to Claire's and purchased some cute friends bracelets for herself and her friend Mary Jane who moved.


The rest of the day will be relaxing.  I need to start thinking about what to fix to eat for the 4th since our grill has died.  I pray you all have a wonderful day celebrating our nation's independence and glorying in our dependence upon God through our Savior Jesus Christ.

We took a day trip to Jasper in the north Georgia mountains.  I was hoping that it would be cooler than Rome but it was pretty much the same~and it was near 100 today.  We saw a couple of dogs that were up for adoption at a shelter(they were out at a pavilion for the a celebration for the 4th) but nothing that we feel completely fits us yet.

I put dinner in the crock pot before we left (chicken enchiladas, a total creation of my own that the kids love) so I didn't have to worry about cooking when we got home.  Add a big salad with some tomatoes and it was a lovely dinner.

Mary Madison and I had a long talk about how she wants to study math next year.  We checked out some resources and think we have one she will try.  I'm soon going to take Maddie and Wes, one at a time, to Barnes and Noble and to look on Amazon to check out resources.  They know WHAT they have to study but HOW and the resources they use is largely a matter of discussion between the two of us~with a lot of the input coming from them.  Sometimes I put my foot down but have found it better to let them use resources they like. They learn more and are more willing that way, plus it encourages them to take some responsibility for their own education.

Today's Workout:  Joy Bauer's Slimdown (mixture of cardio and weights).  I'm hoping to get in a short walk about 8:30 and then some restorative yoga poses.

Today we had a ceremony of remembrance for Rocky.  We dug a small hole in the ground, next to where we buried Patti last March(she was our calico cat who died at age 15).  We took a box and placed Rocky's collar, the newspaper clipping offering a reward for his return, and a lost poster in it.  I placed a letter in there that I wrote to him and the kids wrote a message to him on the box. We told him he was the best dog, we loved him and missed him.  It was very sad but brought a nice sense of closure to the entire thing. 


Maddie and I have been having trouble communicating, some typical 13 year old stuff.  So, I'm making an effort to spend more one on one time with her.  We went to the library and the store today.  Nothing huge, just time together to talk, hang out, etc.  She opened up to me about some things that were bothering her and we had some time to just discuss them.  She's a sweet girl who is strong willed and very independent.  These can truly be great qualities for the Lord as she continues to surrender more and more to his leading.


Today's workout:  Slim Series Firm it Up (lower body).  Tonight will be some yoga, ahhhh.......