I can see clearly now,the rain is gone....
It was pouring rain this morning as a huge rain storm passed through CA today, but now it's a beautiful sunny day!
I was just thanking God for the sunshine,and the rain (because CA needs it!!)!
I can only image how beautiful the snow-capped Sierra Mountains are going to look on my drive home. I may have to take a picture if its clear enough.
The rain washes all the dirt away, cleans up air, and makes everything fresh and new. I love the smell after a good rain! So also God cleans us of all our dirty sins, habits and human desires. As the rain cleans and refreshes, so does our God!
He makes ALL THINGS NEW!!
Thursday, February 22, 2007
Tuesday, February 20, 2007
Do I look smarter?
It's official - I am a college graduate!!
On Saturday, I took part in my online university's graduation ceremonies celebrating those who have graduated with their Associates degree! To top it off, I graduated WITH HONORS!!
I'm so proud of myself and all the hard work I put into it. It wasn't easy but will be well worth it come next year with I go through ceremonies again - but this time for my BA.
We had a great speaker, DeWitt Jones, who is a photographer with National Geographic. He had such insight and brought up some great point.
Point 1: Vision and dreams are every bit as important as our skills. Not the dreams we have when we sleep; but our goals of what we imagine ourselves doing and becoming. Without a dream to work toward, the skills could be meaningless. We must always be inspired by our dreams.
Point 2: In quoting my absolutely favorite movie, Dead Poet's Society, DeWitt spoke of "Carpe' Diem", or Seizing the Day! We must make every moment count, not wait til a better time to accomplish our dreams - for that time may never come.
He had a quote that still stays with me, and was so insightful... "Don't believe it because you see it.. See it because you believe it. "
He also mentioned that we should see problems as opportunities to see something from a different point of view. That's a very intersting concept to me. When you begin to see those problems as opportunties, you "lose your fear of failure and setback."
Wow!! That's a great way to see it!
To sum up his talk, I'll leave you with this one thought, from Mr. Jones:
It opens up a whole other world when you do!
Carpe' Diem, my friends... Carpe' Diem!!
On Saturday, I took part in my online university's graduation ceremonies celebrating those who have graduated with their Associates degree! To top it off, I graduated WITH HONORS!!
I'm so proud of myself and all the hard work I put into it. It wasn't easy but will be well worth it come next year with I go through ceremonies again - but this time for my BA.
We had a great speaker, DeWitt Jones, who is a photographer with National Geographic. He had such insight and brought up some great point.
Point 1: Vision and dreams are every bit as important as our skills. Not the dreams we have when we sleep; but our goals of what we imagine ourselves doing and becoming. Without a dream to work toward, the skills could be meaningless. We must always be inspired by our dreams.
Point 2: In quoting my absolutely favorite movie, Dead Poet's Society, DeWitt spoke of "Carpe' Diem", or Seizing the Day! We must make every moment count, not wait til a better time to accomplish our dreams - for that time may never come.
He had a quote that still stays with me, and was so insightful... "Don't believe it because you see it.. See it because you believe it. "
He also mentioned that we should see problems as opportunities to see something from a different point of view. That's a very intersting concept to me. When you begin to see those problems as opportunties, you "lose your fear of failure and setback."
Wow!! That's a great way to see it!
To sum up his talk, I'll leave you with this one thought, from Mr. Jones:
"See the Extraordinary in the Ordinary."
It opens up a whole other world when you do!
Carpe' Diem, my friends... Carpe' Diem!!
NASCAR
The Daytona 500 is the first NASCAR race if the season and the Superbowl of racing! Although I'm a fan, it usually doesn't hold my attention during the whole race.. but this one was very exciting!
I especially wanted to see this year's Daytona because of friend of mine, Vincent Strader, is the artist who painted a memorial portrait of the late Bobby Hamilton Sr., which was presented to Bobby Jr. this last week. They didn't show the portrait presentation, but did have a great tributee to Bobby Sr. Bobby Jr. didn't run in the 500, but was on hand to receive the special presentation earlier in the week. Vince's brother, Tommy, is a partner in MotorSports Fine Art that presented it to Bobby Jr.
So, the race was full of exciting turns, and many accidents... including taking fan favs Dale Jr., last year's Daytona winner Jimmie Johnson, and Jeff Gordon out of the race. That wreck, which happened with only 3 laps to go, put Mark Martin in the lead. Kevin Harvick snuck up at the last 1/2 mile and inched his way passed Martin for the win. I was rooting for Martin, but was also glad that Harvick won. Kevin Harvick is Bakersfield born and raised! It's good to see some Valley blood win a big-time NASCAR race!! Way to go Kev!! Another accident had happened in the back, and I think Martin expected the caution to come out, which would mean that he would have won under caution. It looked like he slowed up just a bit, which helped Harvick sneak past him for the win. This would have been Martin's first Daytona win, in the many years that he's been racing.
The whole race, I was on the edge of my seat. Most of the cars going at speed of 140 mph, I couldn't believe how close, almost touching, these cars would get to each other. One false move, and WHAM!! An accident happens, which we saw many times during the race. I thought back to the many times I've seen someone going at high speeds down the freeway, or are so close to hitting my bumper, I start to slow to try to get the person to pass. Of course, we're not going 140 miles per hour, but still... one little bump could send us into a tail spin.
BTW- If you want to check out Vince's art, make sure you check out this pencil drawing he did of my parent's for their 50th wedding anniversary. It was awesome!!
I especially wanted to see this year's Daytona because of friend of mine, Vincent Strader, is the artist who painted a memorial portrait of the late Bobby Hamilton Sr., which was presented to Bobby Jr. this last week. They didn't show the portrait presentation, but did have a great tributee to Bobby Sr. Bobby Jr. didn't run in the 500, but was on hand to receive the special presentation earlier in the week. Vince's brother, Tommy, is a partner in MotorSports Fine Art that presented it to Bobby Jr.So, the race was full of exciting turns, and many accidents... including taking fan favs Dale Jr., last year's Daytona winner Jimmie Johnson, and Jeff Gordon out of the race. That wreck, which happened with only 3 laps to go, put Mark Martin in the lead. Kevin Harvick snuck up at the last 1/2 mile and inched his way passed Martin for the win. I was rooting for Martin, but was also glad that Harvick won. Kevin Harvick is Bakersfield born and raised! It's good to see some Valley blood win a big-time NASCAR race!! Way to go Kev!! Another accident had happened in the back, and I think Martin expected the caution to come out, which would mean that he would have won under caution. It looked like he slowed up just a bit, which helped Harvick sneak past him for the win. This would have been Martin's first Daytona win, in the many years that he's been racing.
The whole race, I was on the edge of my seat. Most of the cars going at speed of 140 mph, I couldn't believe how close, almost touching, these cars would get to each other. One false move, and WHAM!! An accident happens, which we saw many times during the race. I thought back to the many times I've seen someone going at high speeds down the freeway, or are so close to hitting my bumper, I start to slow to try to get the person to pass. Of course, we're not going 140 miles per hour, but still... one little bump could send us into a tail spin.
BTW- If you want to check out Vince's art, make sure you check out this pencil drawing he did of my parent's for their 50th wedding anniversary. It was awesome!!
Friday, February 16, 2007
L-O-V-E NEVER FAILS!
Love never fails!
Nothing more needs to be said.
I fall more and more in love with my husband every day!
Happy Valentine's Day, honey!
I love you!!
Nothing more needs to be said.
I fall more and more in love with my husband every day!
Happy Valentine's Day, honey!
I love you!!
Thursday, February 15, 2007
L-O-V-E is protective
Love always:
protects - Troy is my great protector.
trusts - Troy is a very trusting person. We trust each other fully! He's been burned by trusting some people so much, but yet he continues to give people the benefit of the doubt and trusts them. In business, there is always a level of trust... very few businesses trust fully unless they have a written and binding agreement. In our case, that binding agreement was our marriage license, and the sacred vows we took on July 22, 1995, and again in July 22, 2005, ten years later.
hopes - Troy hopes for me, and I hope for him. We want each other to be happy, and we try to please each other in the best ways possible. Sometimes its hard because we are both too easy to please sometimes. We both say, it's a good AND bad thing sometimes.
perseveres - I have never seen anyone persevere more then my dear husband. He's worked hard, and continued through a lot of failures to become the man he is. He still endures a lot of criticism and doubt from others, but he believes in himself, I believe in him, and he KNOWS that he's doing the right thing in his career choices and in life. We may not be the richest financially, but we are rich in love, commitment and in happiness!
I couldn't be prouder of that man of mine!
I love that man of mine!
protects - Troy is my great protector.
trusts - Troy is a very trusting person. We trust each other fully! He's been burned by trusting some people so much, but yet he continues to give people the benefit of the doubt and trusts them. In business, there is always a level of trust... very few businesses trust fully unless they have a written and binding agreement. In our case, that binding agreement was our marriage license, and the sacred vows we took on July 22, 1995, and again in July 22, 2005, ten years later.
hopes - Troy hopes for me, and I hope for him. We want each other to be happy, and we try to please each other in the best ways possible. Sometimes its hard because we are both too easy to please sometimes. We both say, it's a good AND bad thing sometimes.
perseveres - I have never seen anyone persevere more then my dear husband. He's worked hard, and continued through a lot of failures to become the man he is. He still endures a lot of criticism and doubt from others, but he believes in himself, I believe in him, and he KNOWS that he's doing the right thing in his career choices and in life. We may not be the richest financially, but we are rich in love, commitment and in happiness!
I couldn't be prouder of that man of mine!
I love that man of mine!
Wednesday, February 14, 2007
L-O-V-E harbors no ill-will
Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth.
Troy is in no way mean spirited! He's a wise-cracking prankster but he does not wish any ill-will on anyone, no matter how much they've hurt him.
He's been hurt a lot, but he forgives and rejoices in the lesson learned from it.
I love that man of mine!!
Troy is in no way mean spirited! He's a wise-cracking prankster but he does not wish any ill-will on anyone, no matter how much they've hurt him.
He's been hurt a lot, but he forgives and rejoices in the lesson learned from it.
I love that man of mine!!
Tuesday, February 13, 2007
L-O-V-E is selfless
Love is:
It is not rude: Troy is definately not rude, unless he's making a joking comment, and usually toward someone who he knows will take it well. He's a teaser, but in no way is he mean with his teasing.
It is not self-seeking: As mentioned before, Troy is always trying to please everyone else. He's a little self-seeking when it comes to the tech toys he wants (like most techies) ... but he rationalizes it and we talk it over first before making any purchases.
It is not easily angered: Troy gets frustrated with situations when they don't go right, but he is not easily angered. It takes a lot to make him angry, which I've only seen a few rare times.
It keeps no record of wrongs: Troy definately forgives... not sure if he really forgets totally though. Who really does? The thing I like about my dear, loving husband is that he doesn't bring up the past mistakes or hurts as a defense.
I Love that man of mine!
It is not rude: Troy is definately not rude, unless he's making a joking comment, and usually toward someone who he knows will take it well. He's a teaser, but in no way is he mean with his teasing.
It is not self-seeking: As mentioned before, Troy is always trying to please everyone else. He's a little self-seeking when it comes to the tech toys he wants (like most techies) ... but he rationalizes it and we talk it over first before making any purchases.
It is not easily angered: Troy gets frustrated with situations when they don't go right, but he is not easily angered. It takes a lot to make him angry, which I've only seen a few rare times.
It keeps no record of wrongs: Troy definately forgives... not sure if he really forgets totally though. Who really does? The thing I like about my dear, loving husband is that he doesn't bring up the past mistakes or hurts as a defense.
I Love that man of mine!
Monday, February 12, 2007
L-O-V-E is patient
As Valentine's Day draws near, I wanted to put m thoughts down about the word 'LOVE'.
There are 484 references to the word "Love" in the Bible. (reference: bibleresources.bible.com)
There are numerous songs written about it.
Perhaps one of the most known scripture about Love is : 1 Corinithians 13:4-8.
4Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. 5It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. 6Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. 7It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. 8Love never fails.
I'm going to break up the verses and talk about how my wonderful husband lives by these verses.
Love is patient: In this past year, Troy has been very patient with me. Through my journey in going back to school, he has allowed me the extra time to focus on my schoolwork. It's taken a lot of free time away from us being together, but the way he looks at it, the temporary inconvenience makes us cherish the weekends much more, and will be well worth the wait once I'm done with my degree!
Love is kind: Troy is one of the most kind-hearted people I know. He is always trying to please other people, despite his wants or needs. He's got a some-what generous heart and loves being of service to others.
It does not envy: He is not one to become jealous or envyous of other people. He knows he's been blessed with the life's he's had, and God continues to bless him... and us.
It does not boast: Well, he does boast a bit, but he's proud of what his hard work has accomplished... and so am I!! He boasts in a 'matter of fact' sort of way, not the 'see how great I am' way. He is quick to thank God for allowing him to accomplish what he has.
It is not proud: I guess we are all prideful in some sort of way... Troy does not allow pride and ego to get the best of him. He is proud of the man he has become and He remains humble in knowing he still has a lot to learn. I am very proud of him as well! He has sacrificed a lot, and endured a lot criticism from others. He has stayed faithful, become a stronger man of God, and knows that hard work may not bring total success, but brings satisfaction in the attempt!
I love that man of mine!!
There are 484 references to the word "Love" in the Bible. (reference: bibleresources.bible.com)
There are numerous songs written about it.
Perhaps one of the most known scripture about Love is : 1 Corinithians 13:4-8.
4Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. 5It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. 6Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. 7It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. 8Love never fails.
I'm going to break up the verses and talk about how my wonderful husband lives by these verses.
Love is patient: In this past year, Troy has been very patient with me. Through my journey in going back to school, he has allowed me the extra time to focus on my schoolwork. It's taken a lot of free time away from us being together, but the way he looks at it, the temporary inconvenience makes us cherish the weekends much more, and will be well worth the wait once I'm done with my degree!
Love is kind: Troy is one of the most kind-hearted people I know. He is always trying to please other people, despite his wants or needs. He's got a some-what generous heart and loves being of service to others.
It does not envy: He is not one to become jealous or envyous of other people. He knows he's been blessed with the life's he's had, and God continues to bless him... and us.
It does not boast: Well, he does boast a bit, but he's proud of what his hard work has accomplished... and so am I!! He boasts in a 'matter of fact' sort of way, not the 'see how great I am' way. He is quick to thank God for allowing him to accomplish what he has.
It is not proud: I guess we are all prideful in some sort of way... Troy does not allow pride and ego to get the best of him. He is proud of the man he has become and He remains humble in knowing he still has a lot to learn. I am very proud of him as well! He has sacrificed a lot, and endured a lot criticism from others. He has stayed faithful, become a stronger man of God, and knows that hard work may not bring total success, but brings satisfaction in the attempt!
I love that man of mine!!
Wednesday, February 07, 2007
It's raining, it's pouring......
Ok, it's not exactly pouring, but it is raining.
I'm sitting at my desk at work, looking out my window (not getting anything done-so what's new?) and watching people pass by with umbrellas. It's been gloomy all day and it finally started raining shortly after lunch.
We were beginning to see Spring on the horizon with warming temps, but nope.... false alarm. :-(
Have you ever caught yourself spacing out, watching the little drops of rain hit the cement? I'm catching myself doing that now. I NEED SOME COFFEE!!
I still have an hour left to go before I go home. I guess I should get some work done today.
Hope we have a dryer tomorrow.
I'm sitting at my desk at work, looking out my window (not getting anything done-so what's new?) and watching people pass by with umbrellas. It's been gloomy all day and it finally started raining shortly after lunch.
We were beginning to see Spring on the horizon with warming temps, but nope.... false alarm. :-(
Have you ever caught yourself spacing out, watching the little drops of rain hit the cement? I'm catching myself doing that now. I NEED SOME COFFEE!!
I still have an hour left to go before I go home. I guess I should get some work done today.
Hope we have a dryer tomorrow.
Thursday, February 01, 2007
Graduation is here
I officially started back at school on January 1, 2006, after many, MANY years of being out of the college mindset, and in the workforce. I decided to go back to school, allbeit online, to finally accomplish something with my life.
In about 2 weeks, I'll see the first half of that dream come true. Time has surely flown by!! On February 17, 2007, I will graduate with my AA degree in Business Administration and be well on my way to a BA in Graphic Design.
What would've taken me too many years to accomplish the conventional way, I'm doing in 2 years the more technologically-minded way! If you would've asked me when I graduated from high school that I would eventually drop out of community college, then go back years later taking classes online to get my degree, I would've told you you were out of your mind. But, here I am today, finishing my first goal, and well on my way to my second - my B.A.!
It's been a challenging and time-consuming ride, but well worth the effort to say I have a degree. With the help of friends, coworkers and a VERY PATIENT HUSBAND, I have been able to achieve these goals!
I would most definately suggest an online education to anyone who is wanting to get their degree in the shortest amount of time, going back after being out of school for awhile, and still hold down a full time job. It's especially good for stay-at-home-moms and in-home business owners that want to increase their education, or start over. I have enjoyed getting my online education so much better then sitting through classes. I have met some great new friends in my classmates and have learned so much more this way as I would have right out of high school.
At first, I thought that dropping out of college was a failure in my life. I know now that God had a specific plan for me and there was a reason for me to wait on my education. Looking back at it now, I see why. God chooses our path for us, which may not seem right to us... but He is our guide and will turn out to be just another journey to build our faith and our character. He gives us trials and "road blocks" in our life's journey to help us grow as people and as His children. It is through these "road blocks" that we run to Him for guidance and He shows us the way.
I've heard a great analogy that sums it up... Our life is a grand puzzle, and each struggle we face is just a puzzle piece that God sets in place to slowly finish the picture - our lives. We only see each piece as we face it, but God knows what the picture is going to be. I trust Him to keep putting those puzzle pieces in place, I hope and pray that I can be obedient enough to learn from each "road block" He gives me!
"Be Patient... God is Not Done With Me Yet."
In about 2 weeks, I'll see the first half of that dream come true. Time has surely flown by!! On February 17, 2007, I will graduate with my AA degree in Business Administration and be well on my way to a BA in Graphic Design.
What would've taken me too many years to accomplish the conventional way, I'm doing in 2 years the more technologically-minded way! If you would've asked me when I graduated from high school that I would eventually drop out of community college, then go back years later taking classes online to get my degree, I would've told you you were out of your mind. But, here I am today, finishing my first goal, and well on my way to my second - my B.A.!
It's been a challenging and time-consuming ride, but well worth the effort to say I have a degree. With the help of friends, coworkers and a VERY PATIENT HUSBAND, I have been able to achieve these goals!
I would most definately suggest an online education to anyone who is wanting to get their degree in the shortest amount of time, going back after being out of school for awhile, and still hold down a full time job. It's especially good for stay-at-home-moms and in-home business owners that want to increase their education, or start over. I have enjoyed getting my online education so much better then sitting through classes. I have met some great new friends in my classmates and have learned so much more this way as I would have right out of high school.
At first, I thought that dropping out of college was a failure in my life. I know now that God had a specific plan for me and there was a reason for me to wait on my education. Looking back at it now, I see why. God chooses our path for us, which may not seem right to us... but He is our guide and will turn out to be just another journey to build our faith and our character. He gives us trials and "road blocks" in our life's journey to help us grow as people and as His children. It is through these "road blocks" that we run to Him for guidance and He shows us the way.
I've heard a great analogy that sums it up... Our life is a grand puzzle, and each struggle we face is just a puzzle piece that God sets in place to slowly finish the picture - our lives. We only see each piece as we face it, but God knows what the picture is going to be. I trust Him to keep putting those puzzle pieces in place, I hope and pray that I can be obedient enough to learn from each "road block" He gives me!
"Be Patient... God is Not Done With Me Yet."
Tuesday, January 16, 2007
A Christian alternative to MySpace
The thought was good one, but little did the creator of MySpace know what kind of effect it would have on today's society. By the rapid influx of people adding a profile to the MySpace community, it is obvious that people are starved for a connection - even its through text messaging, emails and blogging.
Yes, I am one of the millions who check my site frequently for any emails, bulleting boards and new songs from my favorite artists. I am very picky on who I choose on my Friends list. I have to know them, be an obvious, dedicated believer in Christ, or a Christian music artist now in or trying to get into the industry.
Many people I know in the Christian community have used this ridiculously popular site to minister to people... a few have even gotten hacked once or twice because of their ministry. I use it as another way to keep i touch with my friends and family who I don't see or talk to often.
Finally, there is an alternative way to network with others around the world, keep in touch with friends and family -- and all without the constant berage of Victoria Secret and Singles ads that are displayed on the site. Needless to say, I could do without those, as well as the very provactative pictures on some of the profiles.
ShoutLife.com is a new website that is specifically for the Christian community. Membership grows by the day and you can share openly with other believes and join others in groups with like interests. I've been on ShoutLife for a couple of weeks now and I love it so much better then MySpace. Of course, it hasn't gained a lot of popularity yet, but with a little prayer and word of mouth spreading like a California wildfire, it will grow momentum on that M.S. community and offer an alternative to people who would rather not be subjected to, or tolerate the expicity images that M.S portrays.
ShoutLife.com. Check it out!
Yes, I am one of the millions who check my site frequently for any emails, bulleting boards and new songs from my favorite artists. I am very picky on who I choose on my Friends list. I have to know them, be an obvious, dedicated believer in Christ, or a Christian music artist now in or trying to get into the industry.
Many people I know in the Christian community have used this ridiculously popular site to minister to people... a few have even gotten hacked once or twice because of their ministry. I use it as another way to keep i touch with my friends and family who I don't see or talk to often.
Finally, there is an alternative way to network with others around the world, keep in touch with friends and family -- and all without the constant berage of Victoria Secret and Singles ads that are displayed on the site. Needless to say, I could do without those, as well as the very provactative pictures on some of the profiles.
ShoutLife.com is a new website that is specifically for the Christian community. Membership grows by the day and you can share openly with other believes and join others in groups with like interests. I've been on ShoutLife for a couple of weeks now and I love it so much better then MySpace. Of course, it hasn't gained a lot of popularity yet, but with a little prayer and word of mouth spreading like a California wildfire, it will grow momentum on that M.S. community and offer an alternative to people who would rather not be subjected to, or tolerate the expicity images that M.S portrays.
ShoutLife.com. Check it out!
Sunday, January 14, 2007
It's chilly in them there hills
You know its cold when the water in the gutters even freeze.
You know its cold when the pipes freeze so much, you lose your water.
This weekend has been the coldest weekend that the San Joaquin Valley has had in many, many years. While the mountains are being pounded with snow, us here in the Valley are just getting the cold air.
While fruit growers are concerned about keeping their crops from freezing, the usual folk like us are trying to stay warm, raising our PG & E bills and hoping that our pipes don't burst.
We actually had one of our pipes outside burst and out came all the water. It was one of our outside faucets which we don't use. Luckily, we were home, it was during the day and we were able to shut off the water and fix the problem in a matter of a few hours. Troy rushed out to OSH, bought a few stoppers, some pipe glue and some pipe cutters. We were a bit challanged trying to open the clue and primer. After some prying, we finally got them open and endured the cold to fix our problem.
It'll be another cold night tonight with a low of 24 degrees. If it were raining, we'd get snow... IN FRESNO!! All we've gotten since I've lived here is just hail and 'slush', no actual snow. If I go up the mountains about a 1/2 hour, it's another story. We'd need snow chains to get up the hill and the land would be covered with a beautiful cover of powdery, white snow!
Needless to say, I'll be bundling up a bit more tonight, and hoping that no more pipes burst.
:-)
You know its cold when the pipes freeze so much, you lose your water.
This weekend has been the coldest weekend that the San Joaquin Valley has had in many, many years. While the mountains are being pounded with snow, us here in the Valley are just getting the cold air.
While fruit growers are concerned about keeping their crops from freezing, the usual folk like us are trying to stay warm, raising our PG & E bills and hoping that our pipes don't burst.
We actually had one of our pipes outside burst and out came all the water. It was one of our outside faucets which we don't use. Luckily, we were home, it was during the day and we were able to shut off the water and fix the problem in a matter of a few hours. Troy rushed out to OSH, bought a few stoppers, some pipe glue and some pipe cutters. We were a bit challanged trying to open the clue and primer. After some prying, we finally got them open and endured the cold to fix our problem.
It'll be another cold night tonight with a low of 24 degrees. If it were raining, we'd get snow... IN FRESNO!! All we've gotten since I've lived here is just hail and 'slush', no actual snow. If I go up the mountains about a 1/2 hour, it's another story. We'd need snow chains to get up the hill and the land would be covered with a beautiful cover of powdery, white snow!
Needless to say, I'll be bundling up a bit more tonight, and hoping that no more pipes burst.
:-)
Saturday, January 06, 2007
Some of my favorite pics
Pictures from our recent trip to Disneyland
I've always loved the picture of Walt and Mickey Mouse that stand just in front of Cinderella's cancel. The gentleman picture with me and Troy is a legendary jazz singer who is the only surviving foundation member of the jazz group Walt hired to play in Orleans Square. It was a pleasure and a privilage to meet this amazing man who is still doing what he loves.
Some cheesy pictures of me and Troy. As dusk hit, the lights of the castle came on and it was truely magical!
When the lights go down, the fireworks come out and it's quite a spectacle. I was lucky to catch some decent shots.
And Knotts Berry Farm for New Years Eve.
Troy and I take a picture in a Christmas sleigh. Our friend's Larrin and Christina hug a tree. Inside joke but it was so cute! Larrin celebrated his 21st birthday with us that day.
We got to see our dear friend's, Becca, Alyssa and Lauren Barlow of BarlowGirl (along with their wonderful parents)!! We were blessed to celebrate the end of 2006 and the beginning of 2006 with them at this incredible event (which we DID NOT have to work!!) As we clicked down the clock to 2007, those gathered worshiped and prayed for God's Will in the new year!
A fun time was had by all and I'm hoping to make it a tradition to go back to Disneyland every year for the holidays. The lights were amazing and beautiful!
I've always loved the picture of Walt and Mickey Mouse that stand just in front of Cinderella's cancel. The gentleman picture with me and Troy is a legendary jazz singer who is the only surviving foundation member of the jazz group Walt hired to play in Orleans Square. It was a pleasure and a privilage to meet this amazing man who is still doing what he loves.
Some cheesy pictures of me and Troy. As dusk hit, the lights of the castle came on and it was truely magical!
When the lights go down, the fireworks come out and it's quite a spectacle. I was lucky to catch some decent shots.
And Knotts Berry Farm for New Years Eve.
Troy and I take a picture in a Christmas sleigh. Our friend's Larrin and Christina hug a tree. Inside joke but it was so cute! Larrin celebrated his 21st birthday with us that day.
We got to see our dear friend's, Becca, Alyssa and Lauren Barlow of BarlowGirl (along with their wonderful parents)!! We were blessed to celebrate the end of 2006 and the beginning of 2006 with them at this incredible event (which we DID NOT have to work!!) As we clicked down the clock to 2007, those gathered worshiped and prayed for God's Will in the new year!
A fun time was had by all and I'm hoping to make it a tradition to go back to Disneyland every year for the holidays. The lights were amazing and beautiful!
Monday, January 01, 2007
Ringing in the New Year
Welcome to January 1, 2007!!
We had a wonderful New Years Eve and hope that you had a safe a fun one as well!
Troy and I spent five days in L.A. going to Disneyland and Knotts Berry Farm. The reason for the trip, besides to get away, is because Knotts Berry Farm hosts a praise night every year on new years eve to ring in the new year with some great Christian acts. This year, my dear friends, BarlowGirl, were performing so we wanted to go see them and the other awesome acts that performed (Telecast, Stellar Kart, Sanctus Real, Aaron Shust and Tree 63). We took advantage of my week off of work and school to go on a much needed vacation... without having to work the concert.
We first went to go see the Barlow family as the girls got set to go on stage. It was a wonderful reunion and they all looked great! The show was awesome and we spent a bit of time back stage catching up... then off to see the park and check out the other bands. We ended the night with Tree63 and an awesome time of worship. We closed out 2006 singing 'Blessed Be the Name of the Lord' and started 2007 in prayer together in hopes that God will do great things with us this year. It was an amazing time and I can't imagine a better way to spend New Years Eve. We may need to begin a tradition of going every year.
We stayed at the Knotts Berry Resort, which made it convenient since we'd be out late. The resort offered shuttle service back & forth to Disneyland as well so we spent 2 long days at Disneyland and California Adventure. This was the first time we'd been in CA Adventure and sadly wasn't too impressed, although there was a few neat things we did like. The Aladdin show is a must-see (the genie is hilarious!!) and we (mostly me) practiced our cartooning talents as we took character drawing lessons from a real Disney cartoonist. We drew Minnie Mouse and mine wasn't half bad.... Troy's was... well... we know drawing isn't a strong point of his. ;-) One of the days in Disneyland, we took the 'Walk in Walt's Footsteps' tour, which was 3 hours of interesting facts about Walt Disney and his dream for the park. There was so many facts that we had never known and had were very fortunate to be able to ride in the Dineyland train's special VIP car, which is never done with tour group. We went to places where most visitors can't see. We enjoyed the tour, had a great tour guide and they provided a most delicious lunch.
The parks were decorated for the holidays and everything looked so beautiful. Main Street was aligned with garland stringing from one storefront across to another. Once the sun goes down and the lights go on, the view from the big Christmas Tree down to the castle was just magical. What else would you epect from Disneyland!!
One highlight of the trip was the fact that we only had to wait about 20 minutes in line for the Pirates of the Carribean ride. For anyone that has been there recently, you know that that the newly remodeled ride to incorporate the movie (including the deliciously gorgeous Mr. Depp) usually has an hour or 2 hour long line.
Pictures will follow once I download them (there's a lot to download!!)
We had a wonderful New Years Eve and hope that you had a safe a fun one as well!
Troy and I spent five days in L.A. going to Disneyland and Knotts Berry Farm. The reason for the trip, besides to get away, is because Knotts Berry Farm hosts a praise night every year on new years eve to ring in the new year with some great Christian acts. This year, my dear friends, BarlowGirl, were performing so we wanted to go see them and the other awesome acts that performed (Telecast, Stellar Kart, Sanctus Real, Aaron Shust and Tree 63). We took advantage of my week off of work and school to go on a much needed vacation... without having to work the concert.
We first went to go see the Barlow family as the girls got set to go on stage. It was a wonderful reunion and they all looked great! The show was awesome and we spent a bit of time back stage catching up... then off to see the park and check out the other bands. We ended the night with Tree63 and an awesome time of worship. We closed out 2006 singing 'Blessed Be the Name of the Lord' and started 2007 in prayer together in hopes that God will do great things with us this year. It was an amazing time and I can't imagine a better way to spend New Years Eve. We may need to begin a tradition of going every year.
We stayed at the Knotts Berry Resort, which made it convenient since we'd be out late. The resort offered shuttle service back & forth to Disneyland as well so we spent 2 long days at Disneyland and California Adventure. This was the first time we'd been in CA Adventure and sadly wasn't too impressed, although there was a few neat things we did like. The Aladdin show is a must-see (the genie is hilarious!!) and we (mostly me) practiced our cartooning talents as we took character drawing lessons from a real Disney cartoonist. We drew Minnie Mouse and mine wasn't half bad.... Troy's was... well... we know drawing isn't a strong point of his. ;-) One of the days in Disneyland, we took the 'Walk in Walt's Footsteps' tour, which was 3 hours of interesting facts about Walt Disney and his dream for the park. There was so many facts that we had never known and had were very fortunate to be able to ride in the Dineyland train's special VIP car, which is never done with tour group. We went to places where most visitors can't see. We enjoyed the tour, had a great tour guide and they provided a most delicious lunch.
The parks were decorated for the holidays and everything looked so beautiful. Main Street was aligned with garland stringing from one storefront across to another. Once the sun goes down and the lights go on, the view from the big Christmas Tree down to the castle was just magical. What else would you epect from Disneyland!!
One highlight of the trip was the fact that we only had to wait about 20 minutes in line for the Pirates of the Carribean ride. For anyone that has been there recently, you know that that the newly remodeled ride to incorporate the movie (including the deliciously gorgeous Mr. Depp) usually has an hour or 2 hour long line.
Pictures will follow once I download them (there's a lot to download!!)
Sunday, December 24, 2006
Thursday, December 21, 2006
Dancing with the Stars Tour
What can I say, the tour was just as fabulous as I imagined it would be. The only regret is that we didn't get a table by the stage. The lucky people who got table seating was able to be right up there by the action and even interacted with the Stars!
Ok, let's get the negative comments out of the way! Ms. Karina was sportin' the short bob that she had on the show for a few dances. I couldn't tell if it was a wig or if she cut it but it looked awful!! I think the other thing that was a damper on the evening was the number of people coming in late (VERY LATE) and somewhat building a wall making it difficult for us to see the stage. The worst part about it is that up to a full hour into it, hords of people were STILL COMING IN!!! I almost asked the usher to have them wait til in between numbers, as not to disturb us. I don't know if it was annoying to anyone else, but to me, Troy and his mom & step-dad, it was!!
Now for the positive:
The dancers were wonderful, the costumes were quite 'interesting' with many of the costumes being those worn on the show.
Drew Lachey and Joey Lawrence sort of co-hosted most of the night, and the other celebrities would chime in to introduce the next dancers up. Joey McIntire (Joey-Mac) was a goof ball and joked around with Joey L. a lot. Joey-Mac also sang a few songs from him new album (CD). In my opinion, he's still a good singer, but was better in his glory days of NKOTB. He has grown up a lot and has an older sound...but he's still a cutie!
The most precious part if the night was when husband and wife, Harry Hamlin and Lisa Rinna danced the waltz together. While Lisa did a quick change from her previous number, Harry preceded to tell us about the day they were married and how much he so loves his wife. As I said, it was the most precious part of the night.
As we were walking out to the car, we were all discussing where'd they be next and if we could catch another show. I never knew I could have so much fun watching people dance. Of course, it did help that they included some fav celebs but the choreography was amazing and definately had the 'wow' factor!
If you can catch it coming to your neck of the woods, I would give it a perfect 10!!! GO SEE IT!!
Ok, let's get the negative comments out of the way! Ms. Karina was sportin' the short bob that she had on the show for a few dances. I couldn't tell if it was a wig or if she cut it but it looked awful!! I think the other thing that was a damper on the evening was the number of people coming in late (VERY LATE) and somewhat building a wall making it difficult for us to see the stage. The worst part about it is that up to a full hour into it, hords of people were STILL COMING IN!!! I almost asked the usher to have them wait til in between numbers, as not to disturb us. I don't know if it was annoying to anyone else, but to me, Troy and his mom & step-dad, it was!!
Now for the positive:
The dancers were wonderful, the costumes were quite 'interesting' with many of the costumes being those worn on the show.
Drew Lachey and Joey Lawrence sort of co-hosted most of the night, and the other celebrities would chime in to introduce the next dancers up. Joey McIntire (Joey-Mac) was a goof ball and joked around with Joey L. a lot. Joey-Mac also sang a few songs from him new album (CD). In my opinion, he's still a good singer, but was better in his glory days of NKOTB. He has grown up a lot and has an older sound...but he's still a cutie!
The most precious part if the night was when husband and wife, Harry Hamlin and Lisa Rinna danced the waltz together. While Lisa did a quick change from her previous number, Harry preceded to tell us about the day they were married and how much he so loves his wife. As I said, it was the most precious part of the night.
As we were walking out to the car, we were all discussing where'd they be next and if we could catch another show. I never knew I could have so much fun watching people dance. Of course, it did help that they included some fav celebs but the choreography was amazing and definately had the 'wow' factor!
If you can catch it coming to your neck of the woods, I would give it a perfect 10!!! GO SEE IT!!
Tuesday, December 19, 2006
Ramblings & such
It's been awhile since my last blog. What on earth have been up to??
Well, since it is holiday season, I've been doing the norm - Christmas shopping, going to holiday parties, and making plans for a vacation. I've been going nuts trying to find that right gift for family. I've just about gotten everyone taken care of.
I went to my department's Christmas party tonight and Oh My Goodness, the White Elephant gift exchange was SOOOOOO funny!!! I was the lucky recipient of the most hidious-looking glittery fish ornaments (which will definately be making a return next year!) and a small monkey puzzle. Needless to say, my gifts were safe. There was some pretty awful things given this year. Along with mine, there was a pair of gold sequence boxer shorts which first appeared last year. Awkwardly enought, our Vice President of the deparment was the lucky winner! Another quite 'interesting' gift was two bobble-head dolls (a boy and girl) with very strange features.
On the vacation side, Troy and I will be heading south to the Disneyland and Knotts Berry Farm for some much needed R & R the week between Christmas and New Years. We're really looking forward to our break. It's been a busy year of work, school, church activities and concerts so we need some 'together time'.
So, tomorrow is THE DAY!!! The Dancing With the Stars tour comes to Fresno. I'm looking forward to it and know it will be so much fun!! Stay tuned for an update.
May God bring all of you grace and peace for a Blessed Christmas!!
Well, since it is holiday season, I've been doing the norm - Christmas shopping, going to holiday parties, and making plans for a vacation. I've been going nuts trying to find that right gift for family. I've just about gotten everyone taken care of.
I went to my department's Christmas party tonight and Oh My Goodness, the White Elephant gift exchange was SOOOOOO funny!!! I was the lucky recipient of the most hidious-looking glittery fish ornaments (which will definately be making a return next year!) and a small monkey puzzle. Needless to say, my gifts were safe. There was some pretty awful things given this year. Along with mine, there was a pair of gold sequence boxer shorts which first appeared last year. Awkwardly enought, our Vice President of the deparment was the lucky winner! Another quite 'interesting' gift was two bobble-head dolls (a boy and girl) with very strange features.
On the vacation side, Troy and I will be heading south to the Disneyland and Knotts Berry Farm for some much needed R & R the week between Christmas and New Years. We're really looking forward to our break. It's been a busy year of work, school, church activities and concerts so we need some 'together time'.
So, tomorrow is THE DAY!!! The Dancing With the Stars tour comes to Fresno. I'm looking forward to it and know it will be so much fun!! Stay tuned for an update.
May God bring all of you grace and peace for a Blessed Christmas!!
Wednesday, November 29, 2006
I've been tagged
From the prompting of my dear friend Malia, I have to come up with 6 wierd things about myself. Hmmmm... I'm sure any one of my friends might be able to come up with WAY more then 6.
1. I like watching movies over, and over, and over, and over, and over, and over... (you get the picture.)
2. I like watching commercials. Yes, believe it or not, I find some commericals fascinating. Blame it on my Visual Litearcy class, which has been analyzing colors, designs and reasons behind the ad campaigns.
3. I'm a people watcher. I'm an observer and like just watching how people act, react and respond. Especially kids. They are so amusing.
4. I'm a computer-aholic. Do they have an C.A. support group I can join?? I'm on a computer all day at work, come home and get on my laptop and do homework, check emails, write blogs, check out my MySpace, surf the local news, play games, etc. I can't seem to get enough.
5. I take my pillow with me on ALL overnight vacations. I guess you can kind of call it a secuirty blanket sort of thing. I sleep better with it. It's traveled with me all over, weekend trips to Santa Cruz, Concert festivals in Montery and Qunicy (in the middle of nowhere northeast of Sacramento, northwest of Reno) and have flown with me all the way to NY, MD, VA and FL.
I think I've only left it behind twice that I know of and I was so miserable without it.
6. I've always dreamed of being on broadway in New York, or singing a concert at the Kennedy Center, Carnegie Hall and the Sydney Opera House... but yet I'm scared to death to sing solo in public.
Ok, here's a bonus that I just thought of....
7. I work on a college campus I've never attended, yet am taking college classes online through another university.
If you feel so inclined, consider yourself tagged! Let's keep this baby rolling.
1. I like watching movies over, and over, and over, and over, and over, and over... (you get the picture.)
2. I like watching commercials. Yes, believe it or not, I find some commericals fascinating. Blame it on my Visual Litearcy class, which has been analyzing colors, designs and reasons behind the ad campaigns.
3. I'm a people watcher. I'm an observer and like just watching how people act, react and respond. Especially kids. They are so amusing.
4. I'm a computer-aholic. Do they have an C.A. support group I can join?? I'm on a computer all day at work, come home and get on my laptop and do homework, check emails, write blogs, check out my MySpace, surf the local news, play games, etc. I can't seem to get enough.
5. I take my pillow with me on ALL overnight vacations. I guess you can kind of call it a secuirty blanket sort of thing. I sleep better with it. It's traveled with me all over, weekend trips to Santa Cruz, Concert festivals in Montery and Qunicy (in the middle of nowhere northeast of Sacramento, northwest of Reno) and have flown with me all the way to NY, MD, VA and FL.
I think I've only left it behind twice that I know of and I was so miserable without it.
6. I've always dreamed of being on broadway in New York, or singing a concert at the Kennedy Center, Carnegie Hall and the Sydney Opera House... but yet I'm scared to death to sing solo in public.
Ok, here's a bonus that I just thought of....
7. I work on a college campus I've never attended, yet am taking college classes online through another university.
If you feel so inclined, consider yourself tagged! Let's keep this baby rolling.
Friday, November 24, 2006
Let the crazyness begin...
Update: I just checked Ebay, and not only is there one for $30k, there's a few up for bid for $1 million!!! 1 MILLION!!! OMG!! It's actually quit shocking that anyone would even consider paying that much just to get a game that will be out dated in a year. How greedy people have become. One of them listed for $1 mil says it will benefit the Boys & Girls Club. Sure it will! ;-)
----------------------------------------------------
The day after Thanksgiving... also known as 'Black Friday'.
I didn't dare go out into the crazyness today. In fact, I am going to try to affoid the malls at all costs from now til after New Years.
I was thinking though, could it have even compared to just about a week earlier when the whole world went crazy for the new PS3? From reports in Fresno, hundreds of people camped out in front of stores for a chance to spend $700+ for a PlayStation 3 (not including all the games). The one problem... most stores only got a few dozen and when they ran out even before stores opened, riots began which led to many arrests. Latest gossip is that there's a PS3 on Ebay for $30k!!! Someone has to be totally out of there mind to buy a PS3 for that much!!!
So, what's on your shopping list for this Christmas?? Before you dare the malls, make a list, plan your trip and pray for a safe trip!
Good luck!!
On your mark.... get set.... SHOP!!
Just remember one thing though. Christmas isn't about the shopping (despite what retailers may want you to believe), the gifts or even about Santa Claus. It's about celebrating the birth of our precious Savior, Jesus! Keep in mind the Reason for the Season!
----------------------------------------------------
The day after Thanksgiving... also known as 'Black Friday'.
I didn't dare go out into the crazyness today. In fact, I am going to try to affoid the malls at all costs from now til after New Years.
I was thinking though, could it have even compared to just about a week earlier when the whole world went crazy for the new PS3? From reports in Fresno, hundreds of people camped out in front of stores for a chance to spend $700+ for a PlayStation 3 (not including all the games). The one problem... most stores only got a few dozen and when they ran out even before stores opened, riots began which led to many arrests. Latest gossip is that there's a PS3 on Ebay for $30k!!! Someone has to be totally out of there mind to buy a PS3 for that much!!!
So, what's on your shopping list for this Christmas?? Before you dare the malls, make a list, plan your trip and pray for a safe trip!
Good luck!!
On your mark.... get set.... SHOP!!
Just remember one thing though. Christmas isn't about the shopping (despite what retailers may want you to believe), the gifts or even about Santa Claus. It's about celebrating the birth of our precious Savior, Jesus! Keep in mind the Reason for the Season!
Thursday, November 23, 2006
Happy Thanksgiving!
Happy Thanksgiving!
Enjoy this special time with family and friends and most importantly give thanks to God for all that He has given us.
Many Blessings to you All!
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