Life in Jollyville

A Girl Can Dream Can't She?

2009-05-11T22:27:00.000-07:00

A perfect day in a perfect world would go like this. Wake up to a clean house since the housekeeper came yesterday for her weekly visit. Lace up my running shoes and hit the pavement because in a perfect world I would be a morning person. Wake the kiddos up after the run and take them to school. Come home, shower and head off to my cute little loft - ksac studio - where I would figure out my projects for the day. Pick out cute fabric, turn on some music and sew a few bags.

Next I would meet some girlfriends for lunch at a cozy little cafe overlooking the bay at our new Maritime Park - because in a perfect world there would be more to do in Pensacola. Then maybe I would work on more sewing projects or maybe I would call it a day and go shopping.

Time for the kids to come home from school so home I go. Figure out what to cook for dinner, kids play, check my facebook status and wait for Doug to get home. We would eat dinner together and put the kids to bed. Why not check my facebook newsfeed again and make plans with Judy for the beach tomorrow. Then off to sleep in my clean room (because the housekeeper came yesterday remember?) with my wonderful husband!

Next day, BEACH DAY! Then repeat.

I have a wonderful life so please don't take this the wrong way. But we all have hopes and dreams and today this is mine....Just thought I'd share.

2009-04-26T17:50:00.001-07:00

Awesome!!! it does work. might be updating my blog a little more often now!

2009-04-26T17:49:00.001-07:00

This is a test to see if texting blog updates from my phone works

Cheer Nationals... Great Fun!

2009-03-07T11:43:00.001-08:00

Just Call Me Martha...

2009-03-01T19:48:00.000-08:00

Today a guest speaker gave the message at church. He spoke about Martha and Mary and the lesson Jesus taught Martha when He told her to stop being busy and worrying about so many things and focus on Him. Wow. That hit me like a ton of bricks. I looked at my friend Judy and said "I'm Martha!" At the same time she said "You're Martha!" It was quite funny.

My commitments have not slowed down. In fact I just really don't know what to let go. I love everything that I do...but I need to have time to spend with Jesus. Our church just read the book Outflow and Pastor preached about it for several weeks. Did I read the book? No, I was busy being Martha.

The guest speaker also spoke today about Tim Tebow (by the way I am NOT a gator fan but do wish FSU could have Tim as their quarterback). He talked about all of his accoomplishments of course but also about how he spends every morning in the presence of the Lord and I wonder when the last time I was alone with Him.

Ouch.

Race Day!!!

2009-02-07T15:31:00.001-08:00

Today I accomplished a goal that I set for myself. Yeah!!! I ran a 5K. The Double Bridge Run to be exact. It was such a good feeling. When I first decided to do this my goal was to finish the race running whether or not I had to walk a little in the middle. As I was training my goal changed to not walking at all during the race. I actually didn't walk at all and finished in my best time ever. Thanks to my friend Judy and her brother Matt who definately kept the pace faster than I would have. I'm glad they did that though. I can't wait until the next race and hope to improve my time. I'll try to get a picture posted but I didn't have my camera with me so when I get a pic from Judy I'll post it. Yeah for running.... I love it!

Christmas in Canada

2009-01-05T18:55:00.000-08:00

This year we spent Christmas in Canada and had an amazing time! Kalli and Kole had so much fun playing with their cousins and they loved the snow. The first day we were there was the only good day to play in the snow but they had a blast anyway. We spent alot of time with the family playing games and just hanging out. We also got to visit Doug's grandma and do a little shopping (not enough!) I think one of my favorite events was ice skating. Kalli was a great little skater and Kole liked being pushed around in the chair. All in all we had a great time. Now it's back to reality.

I Serve an Awesome God!

2008-12-15T18:02:00.000-08:00

This weekend we had Kirk Cameron as a special guest at our church. Now I know what people mean when they say "star-struck." Wow, I was near him so many times and I wouldn't even speak to him. I'm so dumb. Anyway, I have never seen my church so full of energy. I got to church about 7:45 that morning because of some kid's cove responsibilities and I could already feel that something amazing was going to happen. There has never been so many people in our church. People were sitting in the church around 8:30 to get good seats. We filled the auditorium, the overflow room and all of the hallways with tvs in them had rows and rows of chairs so people could watch him on tv.

We got the final count today and the results are in....We had 5050 people in attendance and 300 people got saved!!! I am so excited. I didn't grow up in a church where this happened....EVER. I am so thankful to serve a God who is real and to serve in a church who cares about souls!

Kirk's message is on our church's website as a podcast so check it out. www.marcuspointebaptist.org

Sorry Ya'll

2008-12-12T14:08:00.000-08:00

I didn't do it. All fo that for nothing. I'm so sorry but I decided to get more blonde highlights. Several reasons went into this decision all of which are probably silly to everyone so I won't bore you with the details. Anyway, just wanted to give you an update. If I get a picture i will post it.

Please Vote!

2008-12-08T20:24:00.001-08:00

Thursday I have a hair appt for some color and a cut. I really wanted to go drastically different with the color but Doug is having some reservations about just plain brown like I want. He thinks I will either not like it or be bored with it soon. He thinks that maybe I should go brown with blonde streaks in the top or more blonde like I used to be. So here are a couple of pics of what I could possibly look like with the different styles I'm contemplating.

The brown looks a little red but I've been red before so that's out of the running. I need your help so let me know what you like. Thanks.

Exciting Night at Ballet!

2008-12-08T17:31:00.000-08:00

Kalli went to her usual night of ballet. Tonight she got to wear her PJ's and loved it. She wore her princess nightgown and her robe. I thought she would ditch the robe once she got into class but I guess I forgot to tell her to do that. So she wore the thing the whole time. Oh well. She looked cute anyway.

After class Kalli's dance teacher (who is WONDERFUL!) said she thinks Kalli is bored in this class and suggests she move up to a more advanced class! For some reason that makes me so proud of her. She'll have a bit of catching up to do but Mrs. Amy doesn't think that will be a big problem. So, Opal Combo class here we come! We'll be going 2 hours earlier which I think will make it easier for me to hit the gym on Mondays. (Gotta get back in the swing of things with that)

Let The Games Begin...

2008-12-07T19:25:00.000-08:00

So, last week was very busy. We had our children's choir performance tonight at church and this is the first year that I was involved. I loved it. Those kids worked so hard and it paid off. About 20 people raised their hand to accept Jesus as their Savior! I hope those kids realize that they may have helped change someone's life by the words they sing. Amazing..... God is so good.

So, with the concert behind us we will press on through the busy Christmas season. This week is Kalli's last week of ballet for a few weeks so I'm looking forward to a break from that. Tuesday night I'm cooking dinner for a friend who just had a baby. Wednesday is cheerleading practice, drama practice and kids choir party (after work). Thursday is work all day. Friday is work 1/2 day and then there are about 5 events that we've been invited to but I'm only going to 1. Saturday, Doug's work Christmas Party. Sunday, Spirit of Christmas service at church....KIRK CAMERON! How cool is that?

Then.... the following week is actually busier. But I'm not going to think about that now. At least this is all fun stuff to do so no complaining. I am looking forward to getting on that plane on Christmas Eve. That's when we can finally relax. Only 17 days to go.

Thankful!

2008-11-27T16:28:00.000-08:00

I hope you all have had a wonderful Thanksgiving. I am thankful for so many things that I take for granted on a daily basis. This morning I read one of the blogs on my bloglist. It was entitled Redeemed. I'm always inspired by her postings and this morning was no different. She challenged her readers to give thanks for something that you would not normally be thankful for. So I did. It wasn't easy but it felt good. Just another thing that needs to be left in God's hands, not my own.

So now I'm just about to watch a movie with Doug and get ready for my 2nd Annual Midnight Shopping extravaganza in Foley! I'm so excited. And yes, I know I'm crazy. No need to point out the obvious.

In a Slump!

2008-11-19T19:35:00.000-08:00

This post is going to be quite random. So here it goes....

Do you ever feel like you get in such a rut that you stop taking care of yourself? I think I'm there. I also think that wearing scrubs to work makes me lazy. They are very comfortable and I feel almost like I'm wearing pajamas. But, even when I'm out of work I've been wanting to be comfortable. UHHH. I hate that.

On top of the clothing issue I ran out of my wonderful MAC make-up sometime ago and had another brand in my drawer that I have been wearing and I don't like it. And, my hair is a mess! I need a trim really really bad and a little color wouldn't hurt either.

So tonight I will take a stand for over-worked, underpaid moms everywhere! I will wear my MAC make-up that I went out and bought tonight and I will NOT where scrubs to work tomorrow. And, tomorrow I will schedule that hair appointment and maybe even an eyebrow wax! Which leads me to my next question...should I go dark brown? I've always wanted to try dark brown but then Kole would be left out of the group with his blonde hair. Hmmm. Please post your thoughts. Love you all.

A Night Out.

2008-11-07T21:31:00.000-08:00

Doug and I lead very busy lives. When he's home, I have committments. When I am home, he has committments. That's just how we roll. It's not always fun and I can get a little emotional about this crazy schedule at times but when we get a chance to reconnect I fall in love all over again. Tonight we got to go out alone while the kids spend the night with Nanna & PopPop. We looked at movies but decided against it since it really doesn't count for quality time if you ask me. So we started our Christmas shopping. I am so excited because I NEVER shop early let alone before Thanksgiving. But this year we have to plan ahead because Christmas will be in Canada this year for the Jolly's. Then we went and ate pizza at Tuscan Oven and it was very yummy! It was a great night.

A couple of thoughts

2008-11-06T17:38:00.000-08:00

First, after calming down and thinking what just happened in our country I came to a few conclusions. While I will NEVER think abortion should be legal I did begin to think that legal or not these people who do choose to have an abortion most likely need Jesus. So while we have a president who will allow this masacre to happen, let's minister to these women and help them find "The Giver of Life" so they will choose on their own not to kill these innocent children.

Second, we did just witness history. The USA has a black president. I am so absolutely against judging people by the color of their skin. I do hope that through this our nation can put the racial injustices that occured many years ago behind us and move forward in harmony.

Last and totally off the subject, I just read one of the blogs in my list called "Bring the Rain." The blog address is www.audreycaroline.blogspot.com. You have to check it out and read the prayers that she has written for her children. It is beautiful.

So Sad...

2008-11-04T21:00:00.001-08:00

I've never claimed to be a political person. But what I do know is that I am a Christian who believes in protecting the right to life for innocent little victims who do not have a voice. I cannot believe that we as Christians have just let this "one nation under God" elect this man as president.

I remember a discussion I had with someone at work and I flat out said to her I don't understand how you can stand here claiming to be a Christian and are willing to elect a man as president who will knowingly let a child be murdered because the mother does not want him/her. And unfortunately she is not the only Christian out there who has done this. You should be ashamed of yourself!

I'm not stupid enough to think that an entire election should be based on one issue but this is what matters to me and this is my blog. Like my pastor said, how can God bless a nation that is willing to throw away the life that He gives? I am saddened that my children are headed toward a Godless society and that Christians stand by and let it happen. It makes me sick!

God, I know you will not forsake your children but please protect us through this time.

New Idea

2008-10-18T20:21:00.000-07:00

Those of you who know me well...my co-workers especially...know that I am always thinking of ways/ideas to be able to stay home without sacrificing my wants. I guess that sounds selfish but I don't mean it the way it sounds. Again, those who know me know what I mean by that. Ask me if you are wondering. Anyway, thanks to my friend Judy (hi Judy) I attended a Bee's purses party. It was great. Liked the bags but of course every time I see bags I'm practically inspecting them to see if I can make them. So I talked to my sis about the bags and we decided that I could do something like that. So tonight I've been brainstorming about how I could go about this. Luckily I have a graphic designer/marketing expert to help me get started. So I'll keep everyone posted and send out catalogs when they are finished. When i'm done my sis is going to host a party in up-state NY where she lives. Then I would like to have something local before Christmas. I just love giving them as gifts and I'm sure everyone has that one person to buy for who has everything except....a handmade bag! And what woman doesn't love bags? Love to all my peeps!!!

Hmmm....

2008-10-08T21:00:00.000-07:00

Well, it's been quite awhile since I posted anything but I haven't had anything new to talk about. I still don't have anything to talk about..I don't think. Kalli is learning alot at school and is behaving much better. Kole loves his preschool very much and acts like such a big boy. I have been busy making bags. I have had 5 ordered recently and have completed two of them. 3 more to go. One of my bags is going to be sold on a new website my friend Kelly has developed called www.onelittlelight.org. She is raising money for orphans/adoption assistance and a portion of the proceeds will go to this organization. Pretty exciting that we can help someone else who is trying to adopt since we have been so blessed with Kalli.

I guess the only other thing that is going on is that I have been put in charge of finding a new home for our youngest dog. We just do not have enough time to deal with him and his behavior problems. We can't keep both of our dogs together because they fight. The younger one likes to jump the privacy fence into the neighbor's yard. Recently he has learned how to break out of his crate. He has done this twice now and gone crazy throughout the house. Not being a dog-lover you can only imagine how happy I am to walk into a house that has been ransacked by a dog. By the way I can blame my mother for how I feel about dogs. (She knows this). She did not let us have pets growing up and now I know why. To me, dogs (and cats for that matter) add nothing to my life except expense and extra clean-up. Why anyone would choose to add those things to their life is beyond me. I have enough trouble cleaning up after humans that I love. Anyway, so luckily Doug has agreed that this younger dog needs to go to a loving home that has time to train him. I agree to keep the older one because he is calm. The worst thing he does is eat something that has been left out. Who can blame him for this right?

Anyway, I have contacted someone from the Jr. Humane Society who has a foster home she thinks can take him and that foster home may know someone who will want him. That's good news. My friend Patti has placed a dog with her too and recommended I contact her. So I did and here we go. I wouldn't be surprised if he was gone in a week. I know Doug will be sad to see him go so I will be sensitive and try to not throw a party! I'm actually grateful that Doug sees the need to find him a new home. So....1 down, 1 to go.... Just Kidding Doug!!! Love you.

Yesterday

2008-10-01T14:47:00.000-07:00

Well, yesterday the decision became easy. At least for 1 day out of the week I can feel like a stay-at-home mom. We have nowhere we have to be all day or all night except picking Kalli up from school and I love it. I can clean, cook, or run around town if i want. Why would I have ever wanted to give that up???? Anyway, at least I'm not stressing anymore.

Should I or Shouldn't I...that is the question!

2008-09-26T14:29:00.000-07:00

Well, I've actually been thinking about increasing my time at work to include a half-day on Tuesdays. Currently I work half-days on M,W,TH,F and am off on Tuesdays. It's kind of odd to be off on a Tuesday. I never seem to get much done. I usually spend money that I don't need to spend because I want to do something fun. Rarely do I enjoy spending the whole day at home.

The pluses to working on tuesday:

1.Kole will be going to preschool 5 days a week from 8-1 (which he loves on M,W,F). Sometimes I think I don't like how his routine is so random. Usually he goes to school mondays, home with mommy on tuesdays, school wednesdays, nanna's house on thursdays, school on friday. If I work on tuesdays I can afford to send him all 5 days.

2. More productive at work. Right now I feel like I'm not getting everything done that needs to be done. (I'm the only one who works on nutrition)

3. Obvious reason but last, more $.

The minuses to working on tuesday:

1. Lose the only day at home I have. It's rarely a productive day anyway.

2. Will be nowhere closer to being a stay-at-mom. But for now that's not really an option anyway.

I'm so torn. What do I do? Help please. On to the second question. Would I be a bad mom if I made Kalli ride the bus home from school???? I've always wanted to be the mom that drops off and picks up from school. But it's not all it's cracked up to be and she's been wanting to ride the bus. It's just that I've always had this idea in my head of how I wanted her school days to go. I'm finding that the small things like that just don't matter that much. I'm so indecicive if you can't tell. I need some input.

My New Store!!!

2008-09-23T08:31:00.000-07:00

I just set up a store on the fabulous website called etsy.com. It's full of hand-made goods...everything you can imagine. I only have 2 things for sale so far because I haven't been able to sew enough to get an inventory yet. I have about 4-5 bags to finish before I can start stocking up. So right now the store name is Ksac but Doug and I are thinking about changing that...not sure yet. So, if you'd like to check it out you can go to www.ksac.etsy.com.

Friends and famiily definately get a discount so if anyone wants something just email me first and I will make you a special listing that includes a discount.

Work Stuff

2008-09-18T18:24:00.000-07:00

This probably will not mean anything to people that do not work in nursing homes but I just have to blog about it anyway. I've been VERY stressed all week because these people called the "Survey Team" were in our building looking at all of our work under a microscope. I can't even begin to tell you the pressure I put on myself for them to find no mistakes. I felt like I was back in high school fighting for Valedictorian/Salutatorian again. If i got anything below a 100% on my work I wasn't happy. I knew if they found something I did wrong I would be devastated. Let me explain, by finding something wrong this may be as simple as not signing a piece of paper on time or not updating a piece of paper in the chart. We have 120 residents. At least 30 of them are only here for rehab so they come and go frequently. Anyway, i'm talking pressure.

So today was the day I finally melted. I haven't been sleeping well, poor appetite, major stress. I had to be in and out of work because of the childcare situation today so the first time I was there I was told of something that could be an issue with the survey team. My boss was very nice, she wasn't upset with me, we just discussed an issue and that was that. Then...the tears came. It was like the flood gates opened. It wasn't about what she said...it was that i felt like I was being pulled in 3 different directions and could not give 100% to any of them. I finished a few things i had to do then left.

Then....I got the call. The call I wasn't expecting. They surveyors were leaving a day early because they found NOTHING WRONG!!!! What? Are you kidding me? - that was my reaction. Huge weight lifted off my shoulders. I now feel like I've proven to myself that what I'm doing is correct and I'm not messing things up. Yeah Specialty Center!!!!

Off to the gym I went...to de-stress. Except I picked a class i had no business being in. Worked me to the core. Oh well. it was worth it. What a crazy day!

My Latest Bag

2008-09-11T16:03:00.001-07:00

My friend Deb wanted to give one of my bags as a baby shower gift. (thanks Deb!) I decided to try something new so I added a front pocket and made a matching diaper changing pad. One side is terrycloth and the other is fabric matching the bag. It folds up and then you tie the ribbon around to keep it closed. This is a hobby and I would like to someday make it into a little side business so....if anyone wants to order one let me know!!!

2008-09-06T22:26:00.001-07:00

Ouch...

2008-09-06T11:03:00.000-07:00

So yesterday when I walked into a gym one of the trainers was standing there and heard me say that I just signed up yesterday. So he asked if he could talk to me for a minute. That turned into about an 1 1/2 of training. It was awesome. I never really push myself in the gym but he certainly did. Everything is sore! But I feel great. I hate going to the gym and leave feeling like it was pointless. So I have an appointment for Monday. Of course the 1st 2 are free then I would have to start paying....alot. So, for now I will enjoy my last session and hopefully learn what exercises I need to be doing to meet my "fitness goals!" Wish me luck!

I Joined a Gym!

2008-09-05T13:47:00.001-07:00

Hopefully you will begin seeing a fitter looking Karen. I joined powerhouse gym yesterday and started working out. Let me just say that if you think I don't need to lose weight or worry about my weight than that's fine just keep it to yourself. Please and thank you! :) I am the one that lives in this body and I know at what weight I am comfortable. I also watch "What Not to Wear" and know how to hide my problem areas! So, with that said, I want to lose about 10 lbs. So, here we go. I'll keep everyone posted on my progress.

Faces

2008-08-31T19:10:00.000-07:00

I'm not sure if I had this blog when I had such an awakening one day(awhile ago)at church but I know I blogged about it on myspace. There was a service one day that we had where a guy and girl sang a song called "The Revelation Song." There was such a spirit of worship. Pastor Godfrey got up with tears streaming down his face and said "I don't even know what to say...Let's pray." That day he didn't even preach because the Spirit of God was already moving. Something happened in my heart and since that day I feel like my ministry is music. I became faithful in the choir, I started singing on Sunday night praise team, I lead praise in kid's cove (children's church) with 2 other girls. I recently comitted to work in Kid's Praize on Wednesday nights. I'm not saying this so that everyone knows how much I do at church. I'm just saying that's how much I love music and singing. I know God can use music to bring people to Him.

On with the story...tonight I was singing at church. Our song leader had picked out some beautiful songs to go along with communion tonight. 2 of the songs were about the blood of Jesus. Other songs talked about the cross. As I sang these songs and was looking in the face of the audience, I wondered what was behind the face. What's their story? What's their pain? Some faces looked happy. Some faces looked worried, sad. Some looked like they were worshipping. My heart filled with emotion. Mostly joy that I serve a God who heals, protects, loves the unloveable, forgives the unforgiven, gives joy, and peace. Also sadness for those who don't know Him. The true living God. I wish I would be more brave and tell others how to find Him. I thought of those I know that don't know Him and my heart breaks. I will continue to pray for my friends who need a Savior. My favorite lyrics that we sang tonight are this....

Thank you for the cross Lord. Thank for the nail-pierced hands, washed me in your cleansing flow, now all I know, IS your forgiveness and embrace. Worthy is the Lamb, seated on the throne, we crown you now with many crowns, you reign victorious. High and lifted up, Jesus son of God, the darling of heaven crucified...WORTHY IS THE LAMB, WORTHY IS THE LAMB

Thank you Jesus for saving me! Please protect those in the path of the storm. I love you.

My Menu

2008-08-25T21:44:00.000-07:00

Here is a link to my 4 Week Menu Cycle including a shopping list for each week. Enjoy

http://spreadsheets.google.com/pub?key=pzFbl-awWEQibi8XoU95Kbw

New Menu Idea

2008-08-25T13:12:00.000-07:00

Ok. So I've been rethinking the menu idea. It seems that now that my backpack OCD has been resolved I may be onto something else. I just love to think of ways to make my life easier. So my idea is to make a 4 week cycle menu instead of a weekly menu. That way we only have 1 particular dish during the month. If I get a craving for something than I can certainly substitute a meal for what I am wanting.

So I did it. September's meals are planned. I don't include weekends because I usually just pull leftovers out of the fridge or eat something quick like frozen pizza, etc. And i figure if we avoid eating out during the week we can enjoy a Sunday lunch out. I don't like cooking and cleaning up on Sundays. It's supposed to be a day of rest, right?

As an added bonus I already made my grocery lists for everything I need to cook the meal each week. I will have an "other" column for things like milk, bread, diapers, etc. I know everyone reading this is probably thinking I am absolutely crazy but I promise this did not take that long. Since my menu for this week is already planned this new menu will begin next week. How perfect since we're beginning a new month!

What Tropical Storm?

2008-08-24T21:02:00.000-07:00

Weather just annoys me. Here we were preparing for a big storm and we get a little mist. No thunder, no lightning, nothing. I'm not saying I wanted the storm to come but I also don't want to worry about it for no reason. So where can I move that doesn't have weather issues? No hurricanes, no tornadoes, no earthquakes, no blizzards? If anyone knows please tell me. That's just my soapbox for the night.

On to better things. Kalli is about to start her 2nd week of kindergarten. Her first week was great. Kole is starting a new school tomorrow. He will be going monday, wednesday, friday from about 8-1. I think he'll do well. He's a likeable kid. Well, with the backpack drama and first week of school behind us, it's time to plan the week's menu. I must admit that I did not plan for 2 weeks and found that was not the way I want to live. I spent way to much money on junk food. Everytime I've spent $20 on one yucky meal I can't help but think how many meals that would have bought me at the grocery store. So I'm back on the wagon. Here's next week's menu.

Monday:
Beef tips, mashed potatoes, broccoli & cheese

Tuesday:
Lasagna, salad, garlic bread

Wednesday:
Quick food or leftovers

Thursday:
Italian Chicken, Rice, Green beans

Friday:
GIRLS NIGHT OUT!!! MOMMY'S NOT COOKING!

Wish me luck!

My Poor Kalli

2008-08-20T20:18:00.000-07:00

Well, it's been 3 days since school started and the poor little one is so tired. She went to a preschool 4 days per week last year and this summer 2 days per week. She was usually dropped off between 8-9 am and last year school ended at 1pm. Summer was a little different. She stayed until 4ish but it was very relaxed. Lots of playing, a little structure.

Today she was very moody when we got home. After the 3rd time she got sent to her room she fell asleep. Usually I don't let her sleep in the late afternoon but i felt so bad for her. Unfortunately I had to wake her up about an hour into her nap to leave for church. After several meltdowns we made it to church where she perked up a bit. When we got home we ate dinner, I put Kole to sleep then had Kalli take a bath (which actually turned into a shower but I won't go there)...another meltdown. When that was over I dried her hair and cuddled with her on the couch. Not 5 minutes into that she was asleep. Wow, usually when she naps in the afternoon she wants to be up until midnight. This is really taking a toll on her. I guess she'll get used to the schedule eventually.

So Much to Tell

2008-08-19T06:46:00.001-07:00

It's been so long since I last updated everyone I don't know where to begin. I'll start here....Some of you may know this and to some it may come as a shock. I was OBSESSED with finding Kalli the perfect backpack for school. I lost count, no I chose not to count the number of hours I spent searching online for the perfect one. I found some cute ones but I always found something wrong with them. Most were too big. I did not want her carrying a backpack that went from her shoulders to her knees. I didn't want it to be the same one 3 other kids in her class would have. It had to be big enough to bring home a folder everyday. It couldn't look cheap. I didn't want to spend $50 on it. Do you follow me? I'm talking obsessed. I looked everywhere in town I thought might have backpacks and also at the outlet mall in Foley. Ebay had a few cute backpacks (I even found one for Kole with a matching lunchbox) but the one I liked kept getting bids up to $50 and I didn't want to spend that much. I also decided that a lunchbox was not necessary because I wanted her to buy her lunch at school...it's easier and she doesn't like sandwiches or things that would be easy to pack. So...my wonderful friend at work Joanna suggested I make her the backpack. Hello...of course I had thought of that....but, she suggested a fold-over style with velcro as the closure!

Now that got the wheels turning. By the end of that day I was so excited to go pick out fabric. But I wanted to practice first so I used some scraps and designed a "messenger-style" backpack. That turned out ok and I learned a few things for the real thing. That night Doug helped me with the design of the bag, where to use the fabrics, etc. The next day I found fabric and began the process. It took several days to construct because I didn't have uninterupted time to work on it. Brittany embroidered a cute little "K" on the bag for me and then I was able to complete it. She also used the fabric to put a K on a shirt for her in the same fabric as her bag. That could not have turned out more perfect. On the first day of school Kalli would wear a shirt that matched her backpack! Yeah!!!! Mission complete. I was finally happy with the backpack situation.

I was very happy with the way it turned out. So, Friday was Kalli's orientation. We went to her school and met her teacher who we really like. All weekend we were pumped about school starting. And the big day came yesterday. It was a family event. We all took Kalli to school. We walked her to her class kissed her goodbye and off we went. She was at "big kid school." I started driving to work and then thought...Oh no, she didn't go potty this morning before school. So all day I worried that she would not get to go to the bathroom before it was too late, but all went well. I was told the parent pick-up line was going to be wild so I got to school about 30 minutes early and was about 6th in line. She came out in a line being such a good girl and I was very proud. She completed her first day of school!!!

I can't even tell you how excited I am about this school thing. PTA here I come!
p.s. Pictures of the first day will be posted soon.

Successful Week!!!

2008-07-25T16:50:00.000-07:00

I am very proud of myself if I do say so myself. I cooked Monday-Thursday night this week. 3 out of 4 dishes were brand new. The Turkey Fiesta Pie was probably my favorite new dish. It is the simplest thing I've ever made and was delicious. Thursday night i did have to change my dinner plans because I forgot to put the chicken in the crockpot so I made chicken parmesan with egg noodles, green beans, and garlic toast. Next week's menu has already been planned and will be posted shortly.

I registered Kalli for kindergarten on Wednesday. I was thinking it would be somewhat of a sad time but no. The kids were acting like caged animals let out for the first time so I was in and out as quickly as possible. So much for happy thoughts. We did find out Kalli's teacher's name...Ms. Soderlind. Unfortunately I do not know anything about her but we will meet her on the 15th of August. I truly can't believe I am about to venture into the "school-aged children" category but I am very excited.

This Week's Menu

2008-07-21T21:16:00.000-07:00

I decided to copy my supermom friend Sarah and post a weekly menu. Maybe that will keep me on the ball. I'll let you know at the end of the week which dishes actually got cooked.

Monday:
Tuna Melts & Potato wedges

Tuesday:
Turkey Pie Fiesta
Corn on the Cob
Salad

Wednesday:
Orange Glazed Chicken
Brown Rice

Thursday:
Italian Chicken
Baked Potatoes
Green beans

Friday:
Leftovers

Weekend In Atlanta

2008-07-21T21:08:00.000-07:00

This past weekend Doug's business had it's first out of town adventure. For Doug and Greg it was work. For Brittany and I...it was very much play. Kalli and Kole spent the weekend with Nanna and PopPop. They had a wonderful time. Brittany and I shopped, ate, and hung out by the pool. On Thursday evening we went to see a play called, "The Color Purple" at Fox Theater. It was AMAZING! The performance, the atmosphere, everthing was great. Even better than that was the fact that we got handed free $50 tickets right before we purchased tickets. Thank you Lord!! On Sunday we attended Buckhead Church. I absolutely love that place.

So now I'm back and refreshed. Kalli has been such a sweetheart since I got home. Kole is 2. That's all I have to say about that. I did learn that 4 days is my limit for being away from the kiddies. I missed them like crazy. So today was back to work, back to reality.

July 4th - Happy Birthday America!

2008-07-09T14:22:00.000-07:00

We had an awesome weekend. We spent the day at Pensacola Beach. The kids had a blast!

Church on Sunday

2008-06-24T17:53:00.000-07:00

This is a sample of what pastor preached about on Sunday. Several church members were involved and it truly spoke to me. I can honestly say that most days I go to church, listen to the message, and leave. Week after week this happpens but sometimes it's different. Before the "cardboard testimonies" pastor talked about 1 Corinthians 6:8-11. That the sinners will not inherite the kingdom of God but those who are saved are cleansed and are no longer that sin that once held them captive.

This Sunday it was different. God spoke...directly to me. Not because I have a drug addiction or anything super terrible in my life that God has delivered me from, but I do have worries, struggles, bad attitudes towards life when it doesn't go my way. I always thought I would be a better wife, mother, and housekeeper. I didn't realize how hard it was and sometimes I feel like i just can't get it together. My wonderful mother-in-law tells me that no mom feels like "that mom" and to her I am grateful.

Speaking of Mom Jolly, God starting working in my heart a couple of days ago when i was telling her about something that was bothering me and she simply said, "Give it to the Lord." She explained how she had something of the same sort happen in her life and she found that once she did that things got so much better. WHAT A THOUGHT! I was honestly a little embarassed that I had not thought of that myself. Maybe it's not that I had not thought of it but that I wasn't yet willing to do that. Maybe I was thinking that I could truly change something on my own. Everytime this happens I say "Lord, it's yours. Please help me stop worrying." He is faithful and will see me through. I am so thankful to serve a God who is REAL!

2008-06-18T15:56:00.001-07:00

WHY CAN'T ANYTHING BE EASY?????

2008-06-18T15:15:00.000-07:00

All I want is a twin size mattress "set" for Kalli's new bed. You would think that by saying "set" one might think that means mattress and boxspring...but nooooo. Not at Wal-Mart. I have been refusing to pay $200 for a mattress "set" that my daughter will probably not sleep in. So I have called just about every mattress place in town and most start around $200.
Then I called wal-mart. The salesman said that it would cost $124. Yea!!! I was happy with that amount. I do my hair and make-up ( not just for wal-mart but for church tonight too). I WAKE Kole up out of a short nap and call Doug to meet me there. We walk back there and guess what. Yep that was just for the mattress....no boxspring!!!!! WHAT GIVES????? Why can't anything be easy?
Across town I could get the set for $150 but they were closing in 10 minutes. Oh well. Whatever. I refuse to pay $187 to Wal-mart when they did not tell me the correct price. And by the way, yes i am having a hissy fit over $37, I realize this. But I am not giving my money to someone who didn't tell me the whole truth. So, I called back one mattress company that I stopped by today. They will have the mattress tomorrow afternoon for $150. I will take it. It's not tonight like I wanted, it's more than I wanted to spend, but at least it's less than Wal-mart.
So once again i must say I hate wal-mart. everything about it. Are we ever getting a super Target? Maybe I'll put that on my prayer list.

Once again, I'm thankful.....

2008-04-08T20:34:00.000-07:00

Yes, my sister has made a few mistakes in her life since high school....well, since entering high school. But who hasn't right? Unfortunately her mistakes had pretty big consequences. And her some of her decisions created 2 beautiful little angels that we do not call mistakes or even think of as mistakes. Today I found out that the horrible man who fathered the two little angels is once again in jail. What a sad life he has created for himself. He's into drugs which is what landed him in jail less than two years ago while my sister was giving birth to their second daughter (that's the first time i wanted to kill him). Now he is in jail for breaking and entering and armed robbery. I hope he is in there for good.

What I am thankful for is that my sister finally made a good decision. She got married a few weeks ago to what seems like a wonderful man who wants to provide for her and her beautiful girls. He is a christian. He is in the army. And he loves my sister. I am thankful for you Joe. I am thankful that God did not give up on my sister like I was scared He would. I'm even thankful that Rodney is in jail again. I hope Kathy can find a way to convince him to let Joe adopt his daughters and be the dad that rodney will never be. They deserve more than what he has to offer - a life full of drugs, deadbeat friends, and jail-time.

To Kathy and Joe: I love the both of you and am so happy that you have found True Love. Congratulations.

2008-02-09T22:01:00.000-08:00

I love this weather!!!

2008-01-10T17:31:00.000-08:00

OK. So normally I like the cold months in Florida because it gets sooo hot in the summer. I like to wear sweaters and scarves because it looks cute. This year we have had a few cold spells but nothing to get excited about. This week I sent the kids to school in shorts and t-shirts. What is that about? I don't even care about the cold anymore. I'm pretty excited about wearing shorts in the middle of January! Sorry Canadian family. It may take longer to get me up there if we keep getting great weather. I've heard we are in for another cold snap this weekend so I guess I'll suffer through.

Love to you All!

The Best Christmas Ever!

2007-12-30T11:08:00.000-08:00

I decided to give up this blogging thing at the end of the summer because I became extremely busy with other things but now I think it's time to start again. December was probably the busiest month I have ever experienced. Unfortunately lots of areas of my life suffered but we are pulling through. The best part of the month was of course Christmas. Celebrating the birth of Christ.

This is the first year Mom and Dad Jolly were able to be with us for Christmas and it was great. We spent the week with them in a beach condo at Pensacola Beach. The weather was fair...a little colder than what was predicted but it was fine. I did learn that I was made for beach life. Kalli was too. She loved every minute.

On Christmas Eve we went to church for the Christmas Eve service then to Mom and Dad Thorpe's house for the annual talent show and gift exchange. I have posted a video of Kalli singing the Hallelujah chorus. It's one of her favorites.

After all was said and done and Mom and Dad Jolly were on their way back to the "arctic north." I had the post Christmas blues. Did not want to face the realities of busy life again...work, cheerleading, house work, Doug's 10 different jobs. But what can you do? I am adjusting.

My goal for next year is to focus on more important things and give some things up. I'll keep everyone posted on the progress.

Love to All!

Baseball Game

2007-06-27T12:15:00.000-07:00

Sunday night we went to a Pelican's baseball game at Pelican Park. This was Kole's first ball game and we all had such a good time. We ate nachos, boiled peanuts (it's a southern thing), and pizza. You'll notice the pizza on Kole's face! There was also a christian concert and speaker after the game but since the game went into 2 extra innings it was a little late. Plus to hear anything we would have had to go out onto the field and we didn't bring chairs or anything like that. No big deal (as Kalli would say). Kole was trying very hard to keep his eyes open at this point so we headed home. I had to wake Kalli and Kole up the next morning around 8 am. Of course this happened on one of 2 days I could not sleep in. Oh well. I'm a mom, enough said.

Kole's Birthday Party

2007-06-20T05:14:00.000-07:00

Kole's birthday party was held about a week and a half after his real birthday of April 27th. Actually it was held on his "due date" May 5th. He had a blast. All of his friends came to help him celebrate. They all played in the pools and sprinklers outside at Nanna and PopPop's house. Mommy made his birthday cake because I have started this as a tradition. IF we have more kids (and that's a big IF) I will make their first birthday cake. Not because I'm an expert at cake decorating but because that makes it special to me.

Opening presents came after the outdoor activities. By this time he was a big tuckered out so keeping him focused on the gifts and the other kids away from the gifts was a little tricky. After the presents he fell asleep. What a great day we had. Hopefully one day we will celebrate a birthday in Canada!