So long....

HEY GUYS-

THIS HAS BEEN FUN.

THE END...................

Request

Hey guys- Please remember Ronnie in your prayers today.

Last night while at a restaurant in Georgia, his truck was broken into and his GPS and all of the equipment he uses for his job was stolen. Valued at $10,000.00.
Of course everything was insured and will be replaced.He also had to reschedule the two jobs he had in Georgia this morning.

He's on his way home, angry and very dejected. What's so funny, the police didn't come out and make a report, Ronnie had to go to the station and file one!! What's up with that? I thought they had to come out?

I hear him pulling in so I will go.

Thanks guys.

Tomorrow is the BIG DAY!!

It's so hard to believe but, tomorrow is the first day of school. Meredith is beginning to be excited. She has all of her binders filled with paper and marked with the subject she'll be using them for. Her pocket folders match her subject binders (designer school supplies) and every zippered compartment in her bookbag is filled with everything she needs for the 8th grade.

Please remember each student, every teacher and everyone associated with our educational system. Please pray for a safe year (NO BULLIES) and a wonderful year of teaching and learning and growing. Pray God's blessings on each family and that some parents will see the need for becoming more involved with their child's education.

I'm really excited about our new Wednesday night services coming up on the 27th. No more getting home at 10:00 pm with a sleepy girl who has to get up early the next morning. I'm really excited about what's happening at AMRBC.

Remember Meredith and her soccer season that's coming up in September. Remember all of the after school activites that will be going on. The days are so busy during the school year with, school, homework, church and other activities going on.

Pray for Ronnie this week. He's traveling again for most of this week so, he'll miss the first day of school. He missed her first soccer practice last week but thankfully he's always home on the week-ends.

Also keep Justin in your prayers. He's had a couple of job interviews and he's mailed his resume out to several places. Nothing yet but, we're still praying.

Continue to pray for Mama's house to sell. We're getting down to a very critical point for her financially and she really needs to sell.

I'm hoping to hear from my disability very soon. It's been over three years and it's been rough. Physically and financially as well.

I'm closing with a list of a few very special people who really need your prayers, my CaringBridge buddies. I love these people so much and they are very important to me.

Jaxon Burns-Connor Bowden-Nicholas Deyo-Andrew Kirby-Chelsey Mitchell-Austin Scott-Brook Waddle.


Thanks guys for all of your love and encouragement. You all mean the world to me and I love you all.

Have a Blessed week.

It's Official

Meredith is an eighth grader!! We got up early this morning, had breakfast, dressed, curled her hair (picture day) and called Daddy (he's in Texas) while riding down the rode this rainy morning.

When we arrived at 8:03am, the parking lot was already filled. We stood in the correct lines, filled out the necessary papers, received Meredith's schedule, paid our fees and then went to have her picture made and meet her teachers.

Along the way I noticed something. The boys from last year are much taller and have really filled out. Some of the girls from last year are a little taller, their hair is longer and they have filled out some also.

What really caught my attention is that some of the girls have started trying to wear make-up. I say "trying to wear" because a few of them had on so much mascara they could hardly open their eyes. Their lashes were actually sticking together!! I promise you, one girl had false eyelashes on and so much eye shadow, that she looked like a peacock.

Meredith informed me that these young ladies were the "popular" girls. I told her they weren't popular,they looked like a circus act. I explained to her that people weren't looking at them because they're pretty but, because they're funny looking.

She said I was mean and maybe I was, a little, well.., maybe a lot. I told her that there is nothing wrong with wearing a little make-up, if it's applied properly. I told her what is most important is who you are on the inside. It's fine to make yourself attractive but it's not okay to make yourself someone you're not.

I'm not so sure what kind of journey this year will take us on but, this I know. Meredith Wall will be proud of who she is and will stand firm in her beliefs. She'll be able to meet the world with her head held high and her eyes wide open.

On the other hand, the peacock will be so busy trying to pry her clumped up eye lashes open that the world may just pass her by. Popular my foot!! Wringling Brothers should be so lucky.

Catching Up

My goodness, I didn't realize that it had been so long since I had blogged. Have you missed me?

I'm still not caught up from the beach and as you know we were gone another few days after that. We've been up at Mama's cleaning out closets! We reduced three closets down to one this past Saturday. I knew that selling her house and packing things up would be hard for Mama but I just never realized how hard.

Mama is a worrier and she is so emotional. She has been doing better about not crying so much about Daddy but, bless her, everything is such a drama. Of course, we're packing up fifty one happy years of marriage, three children, six grands and one great-grand so I guess she has every right to be emotional.

Ronnie has told her she can bring anything with her to make her more comfortable here as long as it's not blue, a duck or makes noise. The other night she said something about bringing her birdhouses that she has hanging in her kitchen and Ronnie said "NO, it doesn't match our decor!" Don't forget that I call Ronnie, Emeril Stewart Villa and around here what he says goes.

Talk about stubborn vs stubborn, that's what I have on my hands and as usual I'm the peacekeeper. That's not an easy job with those two.

Keep all of us in your prayers. continue to remember to pray that Mama's house will sell SOON!! I think we're having an open house in a couple of weeks, hopefully that will generate a lot of interest and valid offers.

I register Sis tomorrow for the eighth grade. She is ready as far as clothes and supplies go but, she's also a little nervous. Please pray that she doesn't have to deal with bullies and the obnoxious boys and girls she had to deal with last year. We ran into one of the bullies at the beach and Ronnie told him.., "Boy, I better not have to come up to that school again." I hope that warning scared him enough to leave Meredith alone.

Please pray for Justin. He is actively seeking a new job, hopefully something where he can use his degree. He has tried so hard to work for his Dad but, he needs to get away from there. There's a long story and an even longer history there. Just pray that Justin finds something very soon.

I can't believe that summer is quickly fading and pretty soon we'll be tearing down our deck and pool to make room for Mama's new addition. I'm going to swim as much as I can before we officially close it down for good.

Our three dogs are doing very well. In fact the girls (Callie Rose and Sophia) are in here with me now. Oh, here comes Odie to visit too. They are just too precious.

Hey Kevin, tell Shelley to give me a call and maybe she can help me with a new blog page.

My love to all. Take care.

All Is Well

Just wanted to let you know that Mom's procedure was a success. I called my sister at 9:30am on Monday and she said that it had only taken 5 minutes. Mom's doctor is very pleased and she can already tell a big difference in the way she feels. Thank the Lord for prayers answered and thank all of you for remembering her.

Please don't forget to continue to pray that her house will sell soon so we can get things started here.

Miss Shopping Diva spent all of her birthday money while we were gone. We went to so many places this week, Tennessee, Kentucky, Ohio and then back to Tennessee. We found a mall in Knoxville and she hit all of the stores. So she is set for school, with the exception of a few school supplies.

I even got to shop at Bath and Body Works! I've never been in that place before but I have always enjoyed the things from there, candles and hand soaps. So, I bought some good smelling hand soaps and two cinnamon candles. I love the smell of cinnamon, it makes me think of yummy, gooey cinnamon rolls with icing.

I guess this will be our last adventure for the summer. We have had so much fun traveling with Ronnie and visiting so many different places. While we were in Kentucky, I visited with my friend Pam and we had dinner on the river front. She has visited AMRBC with us a couple of times and she just loves our choir.

I told Meredith that she can go back to school this year and tell everyone that she is a well-traveled young lady. With the choir tour to D.C. and then the business trip with her dad this week, she has seen quite a few places this summer.

Speaking of school, it's right around the corner so, we need to be much in prayer for our students and school faculty. Pray for their safety and pray that this year will be a wonderful time of learning and growing.

My four-legged babies were sure glad to see us and Justin is glad we're home too. So, I'll go unpack again and throw some laundry in.

Prayer Request

Hey guys- Please remember my Mom in the morning (Monday the 28th). She is going in to have her heart "shocked" back into rhythm. When she was in a coma at Christmas time they had to adjust her rhythm because she was struggling and fighting so hard.

I've been told that this is a routine procedure and she should be fine. However, I will not be able to be with her. We had already made plans, in advance, to be out of town until Thursday (Summer is winding down).

Of course my sister and brother will be with her and I know she will be in good hands.

Also remember to keep praying that her house sells. Once she gets her energy back and begins to feel better, I know that her moving in up here will be a very good thing for her.

I'll be off-line until Thursday. I will let you know then how things went. You can call her at 864-578-6624 and check on her if you want. She would really like that.

Thanks guys.

Love ya.

HAPPY 13th BIRTHDAY MISS MEREDITH WALL

Actually, Meredith's birthday was this past Sunday, the 20th but, we're having an all out beach bash with five teenage girls and one little girl who is not too far behind.

When I think about the fact that my baby girl is 13 years old my eyes fill with tears.

Tears of thankfulness to our Heavenly Father for giving me such a beautiful baby girl. I was 41 years old when this little beauty was born and sometimes I still question God on the timing. She is a wonderful, loving, helpful young lady but, she's still a girl child with an attitude. God does have a sense of humor and I know that Meredith and I have given Him lots to laugh about over the last 13 years.

Tears of joy for the special little girl she is and the joy and happiness she has brought to our lives. Many of you know that Sis is very quiet and shy but, oh my goodness, she can talk a blue streak at home. She's funny too.

Tears of excitement because she has entered into a new phase of her life. I would love to be able to live my younger years over, knowing what I know now. I wrote in Meredith's birthday card, "Life is what you make it. Look for the positive. Set your goals high, dream big and go for it." I only wish that someone had told me that.

Tears of anxiety for the many things that our teens are faced with. There is so much available to our children now and without the proper guidance, many of our young people fall prey to the pressures. I can honestly say that Meredith is a very cautious person and she is strong in her faith. She does stand up for what is right and for what she believes in.

Tears of anticipation to what the future holds for her. Before either of my children were born I prayed for their futures. I asked God to guide them and bless their education, their careers and their future mates. Right now, Meredith is not into boys but, I know one day the right young man will come along and she will fall head over heels. However, this young man will have to be a very special person. He will have to be a young man of God, smart, well-mannered, ambitious and courageous. I put that last part in because this special young man will have Ronnie Wall for a father-in-law. Lord, bless him.

I'm asking all of you to say a very special prayer for my children, Justin and Meredith. Lord love them, they are two incredible kids in spite of their parents.

HAPPY HAPPY BIRTHDAY MISS MEREDITH McKENZIE WALL!! I LOVE YOU MY BEAUTIFUL DAUGHTER AND THANK MY GOD ABOVE EVERY DAY FOR GIVING YOU TO ME.

Safe and Sound

We arrived home from the beach safe and sound at 9:30 this morning.

We had a wonderful two weeks but, I am glad to be home.

There were 319 e-mails waiting for me so I will have lots of reading and catching up to do.

Will catch up with you ASAP.

HAPPY JULY 4TH AND VACATION NOTICE

HEY GUYS-

JUST WANTED TO WISH YOU ALL A VERY HAPPY AND SAFE JULY 4TH.

ALSO, BEGINNING JULY 5TH THROUGH JULY 19TH, WE WILL BE ON VACATION AT OCEAN LAKES.
TAKE CARE AND REMEMBER US IN YOUR PRAYERS. I SHOULD BE BACK ON-LINE JULY 21ST.

LOVE YA

THE POWER OF PRAYER

This is the scariest election we as Christians have ever faced and from the looks of the polls, the Christians aren't voting Christian values. We all need to be on our knees!

Do you believe we can take God at His word? Call upon His name, then stand back and watch His wonders to behold. This scripture gives us, as Christians, ownership of this land and the ability to call upon God to heal it. I challenge you to do so. We have never been more desperate than now for God to heal our land. This election is the scariest I remember in my lifetime.

II Chronicles 7:14: "If my people, which are called by my name shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land."

During WWII, there was an advisor to Churchill who organized a group of people who dropped what they were doing every night at a prescribed hour for one minute to collectively pray for the safety of England, its people and peace. This had an amazing effect as bombing stopped.

There is now a group of people organizing the same thing here in America. The United States of America and our citizens need prayer more than ever!!!

If you would like to participate: Every day, stop whatever you are doing and spend at least one minute, praying for the safety of the United States, our troops, our citizens, for peace in the world, the up-coming election, that the Bible will remain the basis for the laws governing our land and that Christianity will grow in the U.S.

Someone said if people really understood the full extent of the power we have available through prayer, we might be speechless. Our prayers are the most powerful asset we have.

Do this at least for the sake of our future generations.


Thanks

Choir Tour

Please remember our Youth Choir and leaders as the travel to Washington, D.C.

They will be leaving from the CLC at 12:00 noon tomorrow the 27th.

They will be singing at various locations and at several of the monuments. They also are scheduled to sing the National Anthem at a very special event in front of thousands of people. They have worked so hard for this.

Please ask God to give them safety and protection as they travel and also remember the parents who will be sending their babies off for a week.

When Meredith gets back on July 3rd, we will have just enough time to do her laundry before we head out for the beach for 2 weeks but, that's another post.

To The Special People In My Life

Sometimes in among all of the garbage that we receive in our e-mail boxes, a jewel will appear. Something special, from someone special, that just takes your heart. A cousin of mine sent this to me this week and I thought it was special enough to share with you.

I Wrote Your Name

I wrote your name on a piece of paper, but by accident I threw it away.

I wrote your name on my hand, but it washed away.

I wrote your name in the sand, but the waves whispered it away.

I wrote your name in my heart, and forever it will stay.



I'm reminded of our Lord Jesus Christ who gave the ultimate sacrifice for each of us. HE gave His life so we may have life. He forever wrote our names in His heart.

A retraction

It seems that I insulted Mr. and Miss Wall with the "pig" statement in my earlier blog posting.

They also informed me that I'm living in a fantasy land if I think that Justin is neater. They told me to check out his truck.

My most humble apologies to the injured parties.

Cleaning Out

You know, it's amazing the things we collect over the years. Not only what we collect but, where we store it. Closets, drawers, attics, under beds and in the basement (our's is actually a crawl space).

As I have mentioned in previous postings, Ronnie does love a project and, during these projects we do clean things out. We have been known to say, "Let's not clean the kitchen, let's tear the old one out and put in a new one!" We don't need a new kitchen at the moment so, I guess we had better clean up the dishes that are piled in the sink. We really do believe in Sundays being a day of rest and, after singing in (3) services, that's usually what we do on Sunday afternoons.

With Mama selling her house and moving in, we have to clear out some space to store her things while the new addition is being built. Because she will be sharing a bedroom with Meredith for awhile, we have started in Sissy Wall's room.

Meredith is her Father's child and, in addition to being his dead-ringer look alike, she also has his knack for being messy. "Pig" is the word that I use to describe the both of them on many, many occasions. Both of my parents were OC and I was raised in a spotless environment. When we would go to visit other people, I was shocked at how messy some people live. Messy meaning, there is actually trash in the garbage cans. I'm also OC and this has caused lots of problems over the years. Justin is not actually OC but, he is neat. Unfortunately, because of my health issues, I have had to realign my entire way of life and, resign myself to the fact that I can't do the things I once could. Because I have to rely on my family to do for me at certain times, I have to be satisified with the way it's done or not done. This means, I usually go to the bathroom and have a good cry.

I digress. Last week we began to clear out Meredith's closets and drawers. Making stacks and stacks of clothes that fit, don't fit or are unfit. Some things in her closet still had the price tags on them. These were mostly Christmas or birthday gifts from well-meaning relatives and, consisted of dresses with frills and ribbons and bows. Sis is like me in that department, she's just not a ribbons and bows kind of gal.

Also, we had a veritable hodge-podge of various toys, games and dolls. As Ronnie and I sat among the "collection" he, in a red slouch hat pulled way down over his ears and me with white bunny slippers and cowboy hat, we realized that our baby girl is growing up. We looked around at the baby dolls and Barbie dolls, dollhouse and stuffed animals and, we saw the many stages of her life. In the back of the closet were the baby dolls; Ellen, Max, Joey, Emma and the twins and, their nursery items like, cribs, strollers and high-chairs.

We opened up storage bins to reveal Barbie and Ken and their many wardrobe changes. Clothes for work and church and a day at the beach. There was also Ken and Barbie's motor-coach, their van and their dream home. Man, they live like royalty and they don't even have jobs. Sounds like a soap-opera.

Closer to the front of the closet, are her DVD player, her DVD's, soccer stuff, I-pod and various other gadgets that "everybody" has now. I never have figured out who "everybody" is but, they have to have jobs to pay for all of this stuff. Of course we had to clean out papers and stubby, pointless pencils and broken crayons. All of this cleaning out to make room for Nana and the next phase of Meredith's life.

As I sit here, in Ronnie's home office, I'm looking at (3) huge bags of clothes and one basket of shoes that we're passing down to my cousin's girls and to Good Will. We have already taken the doll strollers, high chairs and other "baby doll" things to Good Will.

It's kind of bittersweet, you know? That little girl, who looked exactly like her Daddy in a pink hat, is almost as tall as I am now and wears the same size shoes. She's growing up guys and, even though I have already been through this with Justin, it still makes me want to cry. This is my sweet, baby girl, who will be a teen-ager in July. The precious little girl that I use to rock in my arms and sing to, will be in the 8th grade next year. Where did all the time go?

We have to make every minute count, cause in the blink of an eye, they've gone from baby dolls to cell phones. From tea-parties to sleep-overs. From cute little sandals to soccer boots and shin-guards. Hold on to your hats guys, cause we're in for a ride. I really think everyone should have a girl, they are indeed a "special" creation.

Oh, by the way, I kept the bunny slippers and cowboy hat. Ronnie didn't say but, the red slouch hat wasn't in the Good Will pile either........??

It's Official

Mama is selling her house. My cousin, Steve, the realtor, came out yesterday afternoon and put up the 'For Sale' signs. We didn't realize that our neighbors across Sandy Ford from us are selling their house too.

Ronnie and Meredith went up to Mom's today and worked on some little things that needed paint and repair in order for the sale to go quickly.

We're excited about having Mama here and as I said before, it will be less taxing on me physically but, it breaks my heart to know that she's selling their dream home. When Cookie sold her house (next door to me and in between our house and Mom's) we were very fortunate to get a really sweet couple and their little baby boy as neighbors. We're praying that whoever buys Mama's house will be good neighbors too. The only requirement is, to love our dogs, especially Callie Rose, who has had the run of the place for the past 11 years. Jeff and Mindy (next door) love all of our dogs and Parker (their baby) adores Callie.

I ask for your prayers and thank you for your friendship.

Don't forget to comment here or on my e-mail.

VOTE

Hey guys- just wanted to remind any of you that haven't voted yet, to do so. Please don't think that your vote doesn't matter because, it does.

It is our right to express our opinions and vote for the candidate that we feel is the most qualified. I will admit, there have been many cases where this hasn't happened but, we still need to vote.

This is a honor that we as Christian Americans have because, our soldiers have always and will always fight for that freedom of choice. We owe it to them, the men and women you have and are fighting and dying for our country, to get out and vote.

Please continue to pray for our soldiers. Continue to pray that we will put into office, men and women, who love the Lord and love this country.

'Lord, please hold our troops in your loving hands. Protect them as they protect us. Bless them and their families for the selfless acts they perform for us in our time of need. Lord be with our government and the leaders of this great nation. Bring them all to their knees and back to the principals that our nation was founded on. In Jesus' name, Amen.'

Up-to-date

Meredith got her report card in the mail yesterday. Bless her heart, she's been checking the mail twice a day now since school let out. I am proud to report that Meredith McKenzie Wall will be an 8th grader next fall! There was never any doubt in my mind but, she was worried. She missed having all A's on her report card by 1 point! We are so proud of her. As I've said before, we've been blessed with two outstanding kids. They have always made good grades and have never given us any trouble. Justin was always on the Dean's list at Community and they both have always been on the honor roll. Of course, you know they get their brains and their beauty from their Mother!

To up-date you on Mom's move. She is very excited and a little sad. She doesn't want to sell her home because this was their dream house. A big ol house with a big ol yard for the grands and great-grands to come and run and play. Every room is filled with my Daddy's touch. It's going to be a bittersweet time for her when she walks out that door for the last time.

Ronnie has the plans all drawn out and she is very pleased. He told her that this is her home too and that we are going to do everything to make this move as comfortable and pleasant as possible. Ronnie is going to incorporate as much of Mama's personal touch and her special things from her life with Daddy as possible. Don't let Ronnie's gruff exterior fool you. Although he can be a BIG BEAR and very difficult to deal with at times, he still has a soft spot and, of course he loves a project.

Of course that will mean that we will be living in a dusty mess again. We have been in this house for 14 years (June 3rd) and we have re-done our kitchen 3 or 4 times and have added a Master suite addition and a hobby room/exercise addition. You can tell by looking at us that the exercise room gets the least attention.

My pool and deck will be coming down the day after Labor Day. That's when we close it anyway but, it's coming down for the new addition.

We sat the kids down the other night and told them what we expect from them. Having Mama here will be less taxing on me physically, I won't be running back and forth but, we are going to need them to step up and assume a little more responsibility. They are in total agreement that this is the best thing and even Jordan, Justin's girlfriend, said that she would be willing to help out too.

We can definately see the hand of God in this decision and we know that if it's His will then He will provide.

We ask for your continued prayers on our little home, which will now include one more. The Lord gave me a second chance with my Mom and I intend to take advantage of every moment possible. She's even talking about going camping with us!! How cool is that?

Thanks for being my friends and for being so much a part of my life. I love you guys.

Big Decision

Hey guys- Just wanted you to know that Mama has made the decision to sell her house and move in with us.

Ronnie will eventually build a Mother-in-law suite but, while construction is going on, Mama and Meredith will be sharing a room.

Please pray for Mama's peace of mind and that everyone will adjust.

Thanks-

May 30, 1986

On this special day, twenty-two years ago..., my first child was born. After many many years of surgeries, medications, doctors and the heartbreak of being told I would never have children.., the Lord let everyone know who is in charge.

I was thrilled beyond any words and so was Dr. Lanford. When he confirmed that I was indeed pregnant, we both laughed, hugged and cried. I was going to be a Mommy.

My special craving with Justin was "Frosted Flakes." I would get up in the middle of the night, sit cross-legged on the couch and eat a big ol "Jethro" bowl full of Frosted Flakes.

At 8:11 am on Friday, May 30th, 1986..., Justin Defoye Horton was born. Weighing in at seven pounds fifteen and one half ounces and was twenty-one inches long. He had brown hair with a little reddish tint and the most beautiful blue eyes I had ever seen (he still does).

I can still feel that joy and the fast beating of my heart when the nurse brought him through the door, all swaddled in a white blanket with blue and pink stripes. I breathed the words, "My baby."

These past twenty-two years have been absolutely amazing. He is a wonderful, loving young man who still loves to kiss and hug his "Mom." I am so proud of this young man and it has been my honor to be chosen as his Mother.

Thank you Lord, for this very incredible gift that you have given me..., my son.

Happy 22nd birthday Justin. I love you more than I could ever say. I pray God's blessing on your life as you continue to walk this journey.

Favorite Smells....,

I just finished one of those survey things that people send you. The ones where people are trying to find out more about you. I can't help myself, I just love those. It reminds me of the "Slam" books that we use to pass around in Junior High. Does anybody remember those? You'd sign your name by a certain number in the front of the book and then you would make your comments about people and leave your number underneath. Kids at that age could be so mean!

Anyway, one of the questions on this little survey was; "What is your favorite smell?" I'm going to get you guys to write on my blog page one way or another, so here goes.

1. Freshly ground coffee
2. Fresh cut grass
3. Clean baby
4. Clean sheets
5. Cinnamon toast
6. Cherry pipe tobacco (*)

You don't have to leave a certain number of answers, just let me hear from you. It gets lonely out here.

(*) I have asthma and I really can't inhale the smoke but, I do love to smell cherry pipe tobacco, a cigar and a freshly lit cigarette. They bring back good childhood memories.

You can also leave your answers on my e-mail:
megiewall@bellsouth.net

Hidy-Ho

Hi guys! I'm back on-line. Just had a few things to catch up on. I'm so glad you missed me.

Meredith finished up her Spring soccer season this morning. Not a good season but, she had fun and she gave as good as she got. She's playing with much older girls who are stronger and bigger so, they feel they can have a shoving match and an elbow or two to the ribs with the younger girls. I looked up twice and Meredith was on the ground one time and then the girl she was covering was on the ground the next. My cousin asked me if Meredith gets fired up when she's angry and I said "Yep." On one of her earlier soccer teams, her coach would ask me if I had made her mad yet? She plays better when she's mad.

Justin is in Virgina with his racing team. It's in his blood, what can I say?

Everything else seems to be about the same on the homefront. My four-legged babies are a hoot and Ronnie is still a pain in the butt. My cousin (Larry) told me this morning that's a "man" thing and Ronnie agreed. He says he loves to pick on me and get me fired up. The thing is, I'm not as cute as Meredith when I'm mad and my B/P goes up and I say really bad words. Why does he do that?

Off-Line

I'm off-line. Blog you later.

Prayer Request

Please pray for my niece, Casey and her husband Jott Blackwell. Jott's Mom, Marla Blackwell, was killed in a car accident late Friday night.

Marla was 45 years old and a teacher in Cherokee County. She is survived by her husband, Tim, another son, Josh, a daughter, Angel and her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Rolliston.

Thanks guys, you know how much I love you and appreciate your prayers.

7th Grade

I will be so glad when this school year is over!! I thought last year was bad but, this year takes the cake.

What in the world is wrong with some kids today? They are absolutely horrible and obnoxious. Last year we had to deal with girls "bullying" Meredith. I went to the school twice, talked with the assistant Principal, threatened to sit in class with Meredith for the duration of the school year and make the school a drive through if I had to come back. Problem solved.

Fast forward to Junior High. Ronnie has already been to the school once this year because two boys took Meredith's drink at lunch and drank it. Another boy called her a witch with a "B." Last week, the two boys that had taken her drink at lunch, brought condoms from home and were throwing them around the room. That same week, the boy behind her was making vulgar gestures and rocking her desk back and forth. She got the teacher's attention when she turned around and slapped her hand down on his desk.

Today, a boy took her milk off of her tray and licked the outside of the carton!! The principal gave her another milk and took the boy to the office. What is going on with these boys?? Are they mentally challenged are just idiots? I personally opt for the latter.

We had bullys and obnoxious, vulgar boys who acted like idiots but, we could take matters into our own hands. I cannot tell you how many guys I smacked in the face with a book for making their trashy comments to me. I took great pleasure in making their noses bleed. I admit that I spent some time in the Principal's office but I didn't mind, those idiots boys kept their mouths shut.

In addition to the bullys and the potty mouths, we have a daily drama with the other girls! Every day it's some kind of crisis with these little divas. They're spiteful, hateful and jealous. You have to wear your hair a certain way and buy your clothes at the mall or they make all manner of fun.

I've been through the teen years with a boy and in July, I will start a very difficult journey with a teenaged girl. I already know that having a boy baby is easier that having a girl baby. We kind of breezed through Justin's teen years with very little drama but, I know in my heart of hearts, this is not to be the case with Meredith.

She already thinks she knows more than I do, when it comes to most things. The fact that I am 41 years older than she is may present a problem also. She's really a sweet girl but, she does have her times and, I'm not so sure I have the patience to do this at my age.

I know we'll get there. The road may be a little rough at times but, we'll make it.

In the meantime, please pray that I don't have to go to school again. As much as I would love to take these little snot-nosed boys and, knock their heads around on their shoulders, I must remain calm.

We only have 16 more days left in this school year, surely I can keep from popping one of them for that long. This is why I'm not a teacher.

And a class of 7th grade boys just heaved a collective sigh.

Get a life and quit interrupting mine!!

Okay, here goes..., telemaketers!! I am so sick of my phone ringing 35 times a day and 33 of the calls are telemarketers. Get a real job! Get a life! I hate the telephone anyway, I only talk on it when it's necessary. I'm an "eye" person, which means I like to look at yours when I'm talking to you.

On the rare ocassion that I answer these telemarketing calls, I try to be polite and listen to them and then when I can get a word in I very politely tell them I'm not interested in more insurance, gutters, siding or carpet cleaning. We have hardwood floors in most of the house so we don't need carpet cleaning.

When you tell them you are not interested, they get inulted and start to argue with you. I've even had them be so rude as to hang up on me just because I told them I don't have termites and have no need of their services.

Yesterday I answered the phone at my Mom's house. The guy asked to speak to "Margaret" and I told him she was unavailable at the moment and could I take a message? He then asked to speak to "Johnny." My reply was, "well sir, it's long distance because my Dad has been in heaven for almost four years." The guy was absolutely speechless, I would have loved to have seen the look on his face. He replied, "oh I'm so sorry." I told him that we miss Daddy but we're very glad that he's in heaven. I suggested that he make a note and from now on, just don't call this number again. I believe he was still stuttering when I hung up.

I have taken to answering the phone with an accent, pretending that I don't really understand English. Some of them don't speak English either so, what we have here is a language barrier. I've also said that the Wall family is on a long extended vacation and I'm just there to water the plants and feed the dogs. I do so hate it when they call in the middle of dinner. As you can tell, I don't like to miss a meal.

Next to driving on the road with total idiots, telemarketers are my very least favorite people. Is there a such thing as "phone rage?" If there is, I have that too.

Sending the word

I received an e-mail from Bucky this morning. For those of you who don't know our Bucky, he's the wonderful youth Pastor at AMRBC. He said in his e-mail that he has a special burden for our young people and he wants us to pray in earnest for them.

I too have a burden for this great group of people. They are our future America and the country they are to inherit is in sad shape. "Recession" I believe is the word on the news report this morning.

In addition to a floundering country, these young people have so much pressure on them now. I have to admit, things were so much simpler when I was growing up. Of course parents were more involved in their kid's lives. Today, parents have their own agenda and unfortunately in some cases it doesn't include their own children.

Justin will be 22 years old on May 3oth and our little Meredith will be 13 years old on the 20th of July. They are my greatest accomplishment and if I do say so myself, they are great kids. They are mine for a time and it is my responsibility to equip them for the world.

You may be a parent with young babies, teens or even grown children. You may even be a grandparent or have no children at all but today's children are the responsibilty of all of us.

Add this group along with our babies, to your prayer time. They need us and one day, we will need them.

Have a Jesus filled week and remember I love you guys. God bless you all.

Have you ever....?

Said a prayer for a complete stranger? Someone that just happened to cross your path briefly, maybe you never spoke to them but, you looked into each other's eyes.

Started up a conversation with a complete stranger? I know you guys don't find this surprising at all. My Daddy always said that I could talk to a pole and then pull it up and then talk to the hole. He also said I was born talking. Anyway, have you just started talking to someone you don't know and then before parting ways you ask their name and tell them you're going to say a prayer for them?

You know how much I enjoy sitting on my front porch. I love to look up and the night skies with the moon and twinkling stars that look like little diamonds. Whenever I see an airplane, which is very often because we live in the flight path between GSP and Charlotte, I love to think about the people on board. Who are they? Where did they come from and where are they going? Before they get out of sight, I always ask the Lord to bless thier lives and give them safe passage.

When I was a little girl, as you know, my Daddy was a truck driver. He would be gone for weeks at a time. We could hear his truck coming before we ever saw him. I remember that thrill and how my heart would beat so fast, cause Daddy was coming home. Sometimes he would be home for a week but, sometimes just for a day or two. When he would leave he would pull out and go around the block. We would run the other way and be standing on the other street corner waving when he passed us by. Then we would run back to our front porch and watch him but we would always turn around before he went out of sight. Funny. Lord, how I miss that man and when ever I pass a tractor/trailer or hear that big diesel engine, I'm that little girl again.

There are people who pass through our lives. For just a brief glance or even a conversation. Then there are people in our lives that we love and cherish but even that is for a brief time. We should love and laugh often, because the time we spend together may be gone in an instant. We should always encourage and pray for one another, even the people who make us angry. That's what Jesus would do.

I want each of you to know, how much I love and cherish you. I pray that God will continue to bless you and your families. Thanks for your love and encouragement and for your prayers that have brought me through.

If you're reading this..., leave me a comment. If you'd rather, e-mail me at;

megiewall@bellsouth.net


God Bless you all and make a stranger's day..., speak to them and tell them you'll pray for them. You might be surprised and I know that you'll be blessed.

What to wear??

As a woman of large proportion (fat-fluffy-dimply-squishy), it's sometimes very difficult to find something to wear. I have many different sizes in my closet. Clothes from 52 pounds ago, clothes worn before I ever gained that 52 pounds. Newer clothes since I lost some weight and then others that I can't really remember ever wearing. Some of them still have the price tags. Ususally in those cases, it's a birthday gift or a Christmas present from a well-meaning relative who's not sure of your size and really doesn't want to insult you by buying the size you really wear. Omar the tent maker sizes.

I hate people who can walk in a department store and pick anything off of the rack and wear it. I have to hold it out and see how far it stretches. I can't wear button-up blouses at all, I prefer the pull over. It seems you have more material that stretches in a pull-over.

Another thing, I absolutely refuse to wear anything clingy!! Why would anybody of ample size want to show off their rolls by wearing something that fits that tightly? If you watch them, they are constantly pulling and tugging. Short skirts and mid-drift tops!! A big no-no for us BIG GALS.

The problem that all of us are having now is, the weather. One day it's in the high 70's and you're wearing short sleeves. The next day it's in the 50's and you've pulled the coats and gloves back out of the closet. When it's in the middle (60's) you wear short sleeves with a coat or shorts with your socks pulled up to your knees and flip flops(Jed).

It wasn't in God's plan for us to have to worry about what to wear. However, Eve had to have a bite of that apple and well, here we are! I'm glad that we don't have to wear fig leaves. I'm not so sure figs have leaves large enough to cover big people do they? I guess that's where you would have to sew two or three together, depending on the look you're going for. Total coverage or a little leg. There's a nudist colony here in Chesnee, red-necks aren't too modest. I've often thought that maybe I could be a nudist but, then I think of all of the people I would send into fits of laughter. I mean side-splitting, pig-snorting, horse laughter. I think I detected a sigh of relief, besides I would have no way to cover up my embarassment. So, I guess I'll just hang around here and wear my gown and socks (my feet get cold).

Life here at 71 Grand Five Drive, Chesnee, SC

I'm sure that some of you don't have a clue where our road name came from. My Mom and Dad built out here over twenty years ago and they just used the Sandy Ford Road address. That's the name of the main road at the top of our road, just off of Parris Bridge Road. However, when Ronnie and I built here 14 years ago (June) and then Cookie and Pudge built out here 12 years ago (Nov) we decided to name our road. At the time there were only five grand children, hence the name, Grand Five.Our Meredith McKenzie made it six a little over a year later. We've thought several times about changing the name but, now we just say the name represents the five original members of our little family.

Things have settled down a bit since Mama came home. She's adjusting pretty well to being home and she's doing a great job with her therapy. I'm a little worried that she will become inactive and fall into another deep depression. It's a fact that she still needs to build up her strength and her stamina and we are trying our best to encourage her. Please continue to pray for her, that she will have the will-power to get out and get involved when she feels stronger.

Ronnie and I are childless this week-end. Meredith is in Garden City with the youth and, Justin has gone racing for the week-end. They'll both be back tomorrow. We got our showers early this morning and went out for breakfast. We rode around for a little while and now, Ronnie and the pups are watching a murder mystery on TV and I'm blogging. We have a birthday dinner to go to tonight, can't say who it is though. I'm not sure if it's a surprise or not but, better to be safe than sorry.

I've checked in with my CaringBridge buddies this afternoon. Also remember them in your prayers. The Bachman family, still struggling with the loss of their sweet Caylyn and, Jim Berg. He's doing pretty well coping with the loss of his precious wife Barb but, he still feels so lost and lonely without her,especially at night.

I'll list my other buddies so you can call them by name;

Brook Waddle
Chelsey Mitchell
Jaxon Burns
Connor Bowden
Andrew Kirby (my new buddy)
Nicholas Deyo

If you have a chance,you should visit their sites. They are so sweet and so amazing.
The four little guys at the bottom of the list, are very young, like Caylyn was, with the oldest turning 7 years old on April,22nd. Brook is 20 years old and Chelsey is 16 years old. If you have followed my blog you may notice that Meredith Grace Dyar's name is missing from the list above. She's still on my list but, she no longer has cancer!! Praise the Lord. She's the youngest of my buddies (1 year old). Her Mom still posts to up-date us on how well she's doing and how much she's growing. Please don't forget my friend, Jonathan Melton from Care Pages.

Well, that the news from my house. By the way, Callie Rose, Odie and Sophia Belle are doing very well. We had all three of them in here last night during the thunderstorm. The older two mind very well but, the baby (So-So) is a handful.

I pray that your week-end will be safe and happy and Jesus filled. I hope to see most of you at AMRBC tomorrow morning.

If you drop by, leave me a note.

Love to all and God Bless.

Back to Normal

Actually, I don't even know what normal is. It's certainly not a word that describes me in any kind of way. Spring Break is over and it's back to the regular schedule.

We had a wonderful time this week. First of all, my Mom is home and doing great! She is actually stronger and healthier than she was before. She doesn't quite remember everything that happened and, I'm sure that's a good thing but, she wants to be a blessing to people. She wants to be able to tell them what God has done in her life. He's given her a second chance and she doesn't want to let it pass her by.

Secondly, Meredith and I traveled with Ronnie this week. We put over 1500 miles on my van. We went to Dacatur Alabama and Cottondale, Alabama. While Ronnie was working, Meredith and I went shopping and site seeing. We also slept and watched movies, played ball and ate. We really had so much fun. On the way back home from Alabama, we stopped by Pell City, Alabama to see a friend of mine that I haven't seen in 25 years. His name is Wendell. For those of you who read my blog, I have mentioned him before. He use to work for my Dad (truck driver) and I was the young kid (15 years old) who would check his trip records and write his checks. We became fast friends but somewhere along the years, we lost touch. After my Dad passed away, I knew that Wendell would want to know. So I tracked him down over the internet a year ago and we've been writing back and forth. Ronnie has heard all about Wendell for the past 17 years but, on Wednesday they finally met. Two of my favorite guys in the world.

On Thursday, Meredith and I traveled to Greensboro and Gastonia, NC with Ronnie. Sometimes, if he's not going to be in the plant for very long, we just stay in the car, if security permits. Other times we shop or ride around. On one of the stops, I had to go potty. Now, I am very picky about where I go and I have found that Waffle House has pretty clean restrooms and they are private. My first choice is a Welcome Center but, we were near a Waffle House. Meredith decided that she was staying in the van to watch her DVD so, I locked her in the van, with the keys (both sets) and my cell. She was sitting right in front of the window so I felt she would be safe. As I reached the door, I heard my van door close and looked around and there she stood, right at my shoulder. I asked her..., "Did you lock the door?" Of course she said.., "Yes." There we were in a strange town and the keys were locked in the van.
I couldn't get in touch with Ronnie because my phone was in the van and so were his keys. Now you know my temper, needless to say I had Meredith in tears and my B/P was at stroke level, honestly. She said that a man in one of the booths was looking at her and it scared her and, I said..., "Well guess what? Everybody in here is looking at us now!" Of course the people in Waffle House were sympathetic to Meredith and thought I was some kind of nut. We called a wrecker service and the guy came out, popped the door open and charged me $40.00. While we were locked out, Ronnie had called, in fact, the phone was ringing when I opened the door. I just told him I had something to take care of and I would see him in a minute. He thought I didn't make it to the bathroom on time and I was in need of clean clothes. Then he thought, she backed in to somebody and she's getting a ticket. I drive forward real well but, the backing up is not so easy for me. Anyway, we picked him up and he could see that Meredith was upset. When she told him what had happened, well, let's just say that his tantrum made me look like a wimp.

Anyway, we calmed down and told Sis that we were sorry that we had lost our temper and she said she was sorry for being silly and a wimp. We kissed and hugged and made up and the rest of the day was great.

All in all, it was a good week except now, Ronnie is sick. He told Meredith it was because he had to stand outside in the cold while the wrecker guy unlocked our van.

I'm glad that summer is just around the corner and we will be travelling some more with Ronnie. We're planning to go back to Alabama to spend a little more time with Wendell. No matter where we go, I will have my keys and my cell with me at all times and Meredith will just have to go to the potty with me.

PRAISE THE LORD!!

WONDERFUL NEWS! MAMA IS FINALLY COMING HOME AFTER BEING IN THE HOSPITAL FOR OVER 3 MONTHS!! SHE IS SO EXCITED BLESS HER HEART! PLEASE KEEP HER IN YOUR PRAYERS AND THANK YOU ALL FOR YOUR LOVE AND SUPPORT DURING THIS TIME. I LOVE YOU.

PRAISE THE LORD!!

WONDERFUL NEWS! MAMA IS COMING HOME ON MONDAY THE 31ST AFTER BEING GONE FOR OVER 3 MONTHS!! BLESS HER HEART SHE IS SO EXCITED!! PLEASE KEEP HER IN YOUR PRAYERS AND THANK YOU ALL SO MUCH FOR YOUR LOVE AND ENCOURAGEMENT DURING THIS TIME. I LOVE YOU ALL.

Hello..., it's me

Good morning! I'm still recovering from Sunday. Physically, I'm exhausted but sprirtually, I'm still filled with the wonder of it all. Jesus was there in all of the services on Sunday. I could feel His special touch as we sang each song and bowed our heads in prayer. During the sermon I could hear Him saying..., "I love you
and I did this for you." He suffered and died for all of us because He loves us. We are not worthy of such love and sacrifice. We are like the dirty laundry that Mattie spoke about in his blog. We should have been cast aside but Jesus said.., "I'll go."
"Hallelujah For The Cross." "Had It Not Been For A Hill Called Mount Calvary. Had It Not Been For A Man Called Jesus, Then Forever My Soul Would Be Lost." Every day that the Lord gives us should be a time of praise and worship and a time that we should reach out and love others.

I'm so looking forward to Sunday. It's a time of celebration. Our Lord arose from the dead and "HE LIVES!!" "Becasue HE LIVES, I can face tomorrow."

Continue to remember the Bachman family as they deal with the loss of precious Caylyn. Remember Barb and Jim Berg as the days quickly lead to the end of Barb's suffering and Jim's struggle with life without her. Please pray for all of my CaringBridge buddies and their precious families.

The days are getting closer to our bringing Mama home! This Sunday we will be having a special Easter celebration at my niece's home and Mama will be there. She is doing great, getting stronger and more mobile every day. Please continue to lift her up in your prayers. Rose Crest- Room 202B- telephone # 599-1716.

Thanks for keeping me close to your hearts. In my mind, I still feel young but, for whatever reason, my body just doesn't want to cooperate. I love you guys so much and appreciate your friendship and love and your prayers. You are such a special group of friends and I am so blessed to have you be a part of my life.

Have a great week!!

Prayer Requests

I just found out this afternoon that one of my CaringBridge babies passed away. Her name is Caylyn Bachman. She was my little six year old that had lukemia. Please remember her parents, Cathy and Tully and her brother, Evan. Barb Berg is still very very critical also so, please remember her and husband, Jim. Please pray for all of my CB buddies who are suffering. They are very special to me.

I almost hesitate to ask this, because my health issues are nothing, compared to others who are suffering but, please remember me too. I went to my doctor for my check-up and she has put me on bedrest, NO activities, for two weeks. I still plan to sing on Sunday. She was very concerned because of my B/P. Also, my thyroid is over-active this time, which can cause an increase in my heart rate and B/P. There is a little matter of stress too. I can't imagine why?? I go back in two weeks to see how the additional meds and med changes are helping.

I took Mama to her cardiologist on Monday. He was pleased with everything but her heart rhythm. He wants to check her again in a month. He wants her to be a little stronger before he makes the decision or not to shoch her heart back into a normal rhythm. She's doing great with her P/T so, please continue to remember her. She's fussing so, she is better!!

Thanks. I love you all.

Easter

"I look at the sun, and I think of the power and majesty of God. I look on the earth where the flowers bloom, and I think of the path He trod. I look at the trees, and I think of the wood which made His cross of shame. Then I look in my heart, and see my sin, and believing, I have life through His name." Because of the shedding of His precious blood, our sins are washed away. Because of His sacrifice, we have been set free. Because He arose from the grave, we have eternal life.

Tick Tock

We lose an hour of sleep tonight so, don't forget to set your clocks ahead one hour. Do you know what this means? Technically we will be arriving at church at 6:30am. Also, I'll be racing through Boiling Springs at a high rate of speed with rollers in my hair and,carefully applying my make-up. So see you bright and early in the morning!

TICK TOCK

We lose an hour tonight!! So, don't forget to turn your clocks ahead one hour. This means, instead of our being at church at 7:30am in the morning, we will technically be there at 6:30am. You know what else this means? I'll be traveling at a high rate of speed through Boiling Springs with my hair in rollers, applying my make-up, very carefully.

Why Did Jesus Fold The Napkin?

Why did Jesus fold the linen burial cloth after His resurrection?

The Gospel of John (20:7) tells us that the napkin, which was placed over the face of Jesus, was not just thrown aside like the grave clothes.

The Bible takes an entire verse to tell us that the napkin was neatly folded and was placed at the head of that stony coffin. Early Sunday morning, while it was still dark, Mary Magdalene came to the tomb and found that the stone had been rolled away from the entrance. She ran and found Simon Peter and the other disciple,the one whom Jesus loved. She said, "They have taken the Lord's body out of the tomb, and I don't know where they have put him!"

Peter and the other disciple ran to the tomb to see. The other disciple out ran Peter and got there first. He stooped and looked in and saw the linen cloth lying there, but he didn't go in. Then Simon Peter arrived and went inside. He also noticed the linen wrappings lying there, while the cloth that had covered Jesus head was folded up and lying to the side.

Is that important? Absolutely! Is it really significant? Yes! In order to understand the significance of the folded napkin, you have to understand a little bit about Hebrew tradition of that day. The folded napkin had to do with the Master and Servant, and every Jewish boy knew this tradition. When the servant set the dinner table for the master, he made sure that it was exactly the way the master wanted it.

The table was furnished perfectly, and then the servant would wait, just out of sight, until the master had finished eating, and the servant would not dare touch that table until the master was finished.

Now if the master was done eating, he would rise from the table, wipe his fingers and mouth with that napkin and toss it on to the table. The servant would then know to clear the table. For in those days, the wadded napkin meant, "I'm done." But if the master got up from the table, and folded his napkin, and laid it beside his plate, the servant knew that the folded napkin meant, "I'm not finished yet." The folded napkin meant, "I'm coming back!"

This is a promise, JESUS IS COMING BACK!! In John, Chapter 14, verses 1-3, Jesus tells the disciples, "Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God, trust also in me." He tells them that He is going to His Father's house to prepare a place for them and, "if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me."

As we approach this Easter season, let us be reminded of..., "The Cross" "The Tomb" "The Folded Napkin" "The Promise."

Ever Wondered??

Have you ever wondered what goes on in the middle of the night? I'm always up at odd hours, letting the dogs out and letting the dogs in. While I'm up, I get something to drink and go to the bathroom. Here's my observation;

There are always cars going up and down the road. Where are they going at this hour? Maybe they had a craving for Krispy Kreme and they're making a doughnut run?

The paper man comes at 4:00am, poor thing. Did you know he has flashing lights on the top of his car? I guess that's so the people making a doughnut run will see him. The first time I saw the flashing lights coming down the road at 4:00am, I thought we were being raided. Kinda scary when you're half asleep.

It's dark out there. In the summertime, I like to sit out on my porch in the middle of the night and rock. It's peaceful and quiet but, it's dark out there! I can't see a thing except the paper man's flashing lights.

When do deer sleep? What about raccoon, fox and possum? One night I let the dogs out and Sophia ran out the door like she had been shot out of a cannon. She had spotted a couple of deer down at the end of the driveway. I've seen all kinds of furry creatures ambling across our yard.

Dogs are always up and barking to one another in the middle of the night. If one starts, they all start. Do you think they're planning a doughnut run?

There are some great old movies on in the middle of the night.

You can also buy things on the Home Shopping Network. This means, if you happen to be lonely, you can call and talk to somebody but, I think they want you to buy something.

Ronnie says the reason I don't sleep well is because I have a guilty conscience. That's not necessarily true. I've always been something of an insomniac ever since I was a kid. I remember lying awake while everybody else was sleeping.

The middle of the night is a good time to have your quiet time. God is always up and listening so, you can spend time with Him, uninterrupted.

Well, I guess I'll go and see what's on the television. Maybe I can sign up for one of those exercise videos that lets you lose inches while you're asleep. Or maybe I'll make a doughnut run. If I leave now I can be there and back by the time I get the kids up.


Don't forget: If you visit, leave me a comment. When I don't get any comments, it keeps me up at night.

Maggie has left the building

Hey my favorite blog readers and prayer warriors! Yep, it's true, Miss Maggie has left Restorative and is now safe and sound and snug as a bug at Rose Crest. She is so excited about her new surroundings and the fact that she was finally able to take a shower this afternoon. Her room number is 202B and the temporary phone number is 578-0999. Her social worker asked her today if she was anticipating many visitors or phone calls and she said "YES I AM!" So all of you who can, go by and visit or give her a call. She begins P/T on Monday morning. Thanks for all of the love and encouragement and especially the prayers. I love you all. GOD IS GOOD! Keep praying.

HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY!!

HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY GUYS!! Ronnie has been out of town this week and I was so-oo afraid that I would have to spend Valentine's without him. However, he just called me and he said he'll be home in 3 hours, which will be 10:00 pm. I may only have a couple of hours of Valentine's left but, I don't care he's coming home.

We had our very first date 17 years ago this Saturday (16th). Our group sang at a Valentine's banquet on the 14th and that's when he started looking at me as more than a friend. We had been friends for a couple of years or so but all of a sudden everything changed. We still call each other "Ronnie" or "Megie" from the group!

I hope that all of you will be able to spend Valentine's with someone special, even if it's only for an hour or two.

WHAT????

As some of you know, we are facing a problem with placing Mama in a skilled nursing facility. We were told a week ago that medically Mama was ready to move from Restorative. As I stated in one of my earlier blogs, when we first moved Mama to Restorative, it was to medically get her to a place so she could begin P/T.

In our meeting with the Social Worker and the other therapist, we were informed that Mama did not meet their criteria for P/T because she is considered "long-term." We were given a 10 page list of nursing facilities that are as close as around the block from Restorative and as far away as Hendersonville, NC.

We have chosen several places that are nearby and we have visited each one. Three of them are beautiful facilities and two of them are dumps. Here's the thing, they have to choose Mama, based on their ability to offer her the type of care she requires and if she meets their guidelines.

Three of these facilities have declined because Mama is considered "long-term" with a need for extensive P/T and they are not set up for extensive P/T. One has declined her because they consider her "short-term" and they are set up for "long-term." This facility has the best physical therapy but they can't accomodate "short-term." We haven't heard from the other place yet but, we hope we don't.

Restorative has a beautiful facility but we have been told that Mama is not mobile enough for their criteria. My question is this. How can she possibly get mobile if they don't work with her?

Now that her mind is clear, she is willing to work but, for whatever reason, they aren't working with her. They came in yesterday and got her up. She walked, with the walker and their help, to the wall and back.

I called the Social worker in this morning and I said..., "Look, all we want is for Mama to be able to walk with the walker to the toliet and back. If you guys would work with her every day and not every other day or just when you feel like it, she would be mobile enough that we can get her out of here!" If we can get her walking enough to come home, we can take her to an outside P/T facility. As a matter of fact, my niece Casey works for an orthopedic doctor and, they have "long-term" and "short-term" P/T.

To say that we are frustrated would be an understatement. As I said before, I have seen people walking around with their little name tags and their little clipboards but, nobody is listening!!

Please continue to pray. Thanks!

Life's Little Pleasures

Some of my blogger friends have these little question and answer themes on their blog page in order to have feed-back. I thought I would try this. I get lonely and paranoid when nobody writes back. So if you visit, drop me a comment.

Here goes; What are some of the things you like to do to unwind and treat yourself?

My answers;

1. I love movie night with my family. We buy a movie on Pay-per-View and have a special meal.

2. I love curling up on the couch with my four-legged babies and a good book.

3. One of my favorite places is my front porch swing or my rocking chair. I even like to sit out during a thunderstorm.

4. My next favorite place is floating on my noodle in the pool.

5. My special way to treat myself is driving through Hub City Coffees for a large special blend. One splenda and a bit of skim.

Okay guys, it's your turn. Let me know how you like to unwind and treat yourself.

Life's Pleasures and Indulgences

Some of my blogger friends are doing these little question and answer postings so I thought I would try one of my own. Sometimes you write on your blog and you're wondering if anybody is reading? If you visit my page, leave a little comment. I get lonely and paranoid when I have no feed back.

As I was coming home from taking Meredith to school this morning I started to think about life in general. It seems the more technological and automated we become the more we try to cram in an already busy schedule.

You know the routine..., up at 6am. Job-school-church-activities-bills-cleaning-laundry. Day in and day out. My question is this..., what do you do for pleasure? How do you unwind? What's the one indulgence you save for a pick-me-up?

I love to spend time with my family watching movies.

I love to curl up on the couch, surrounded by my four-legged babies and, read a good book.

I love to sit out on my front porch, either in my rocking chair or on the swing.

I love to float in my pool in the summer.

My one indulgence, my special little thing I do for myself is..., I go by Hub City Coffee and get a large special. That's usually their special coffee blend of the day with a little Splenda and a very little skim milk.

Of course I have to swipe Ronnie's pocket change or I have even took money from the kid's stash in order to take advantage of this one little indulgence

BIG BAD DAD

Many of you know my hubby Ronnie. He's big and bald and can be very intimidating. I'm sure there are two young men at Boiling Springs Junior High who know this very well. Yesterday after lunch, Meredith called me and told me that the two young men who have been bullying her all year long, actually took her drink at lunch and drank it!! There have been several things that have happened all year long but, BIG BAD DAD HAD ENOUGH!!

Last year, Meredith was bullied by a bunch of girls and I took care of that but, yesterday Dad went to school. He went straight to the big guy and told him all that had been happening. He told the principal that he was not sending his baby girl to school to be bullied and frightened and he had had enough!

The principal called Meredith to the office. Luckily, when she called, I told her that her Daddy was on the way, I think I heard a big sigh of relief when she hung up the phone. Many of you know our sweet little Meredith. She is very quiet and shy and doesn't want any trouble. She told the principal all that had been happening and then she started to cry. Ronnie said the principal almost cried and he reassured Meredith that she had done nothing wrong. He told her if either of those boys cause her one minute more of grief, come to him.

Ronnie got a call from the principal later on in the afternoon. He told him that he had talked to both young men and if it was any consolation to Meredith, both of them cried!! She did smile and take some pleasure in that but, I could see the relief on her beautiful little face.

I know you may find this hard to believe, for those of you who know me but, I too was bullied in Junior High. For three long years I suffered verbal abuse at the hands of a few young men. I was the new girl in school and they took advantage of that fact. They called me horrible names and told vicious lies. Unfortunately, the young man behind all of this didn't attend our school at the time . He was a big
athlete at a Junior High across town but, he lived across the street from me.

I did get my revenge however. Because he lived out of district, he had to attend my school in the 9th grade. One day he and all of his buddies came sauntering down the hall. They started immediately laughing at me and calling me names. I grabbed this big old jock and threw him up against the lockers. I threatened to make him "cry like a girl" if he didn't tell them the truth. I had him in a big choke hold and he admitted, right there in front of God and everybody, that he was a BIG LIAR. He also apologized to me. I took great pleasure in that. Now, this is the Megie most of you know..., right?

My Dad came to the school later on that afternoon and he too took care of things. That's what Daddies do, they take care of things.

Our Heavenly Father is our Daddy too. He takes care of things. He picks us up and dries our tears and loves us unconditionally.

I eventually forgave these young men, even the ring leader and a couple of years ago when I read that he had passed away, I cried.

Life Goes On

I've come to realize that no matter what's going on in your daily schedule, life goes on. All of you know that my Mama has been in the hospital since Christmas Eve. Bless her heart, she doesn't even remember Christmas day or New Year's.

Day in and day out for these many weeks, my family and I have gone back and forth to the hospital to be with Mama. As I have said before, we have seen the evidence of God's love and mercy during this time. Even though Mama is still confused at times, she has made wonderful progress and we owe it all to the Lord.

Also during these many weeks, some semblence of our daily life has continued. We have dealt with our own illnesses. There have been days on days of soccer conditioning, try-outs and selling candy, only to be told that because we hadn't signed Meredith up for "Club Ball" she was never even considered for the JV team.
Talking about "unfair practices" and "politics" in school athletics!! We had to console our girl and reassure her that she did her best and that the team was picked way in advance of try-outs. Somehow, that just doesn't seem fair. Not only was the team picked in advance, most of the girls were "Club Ballers" and they never even conditioned with the others. I'm not saying that this is true for ALL of the girls chosen but, most of them. Well anyway, we still have good ol AYSO soccer. Their motto is "It's All About The Kids" and that's the truth.

Another place that we have had to deal with "unfair practices" and "politics" is with the insurance companies and Medicare. My Mom has been at death's door in the past few weeks but, she has also been on a time schedule. Bring her out of a drug-induced coma and perform a tracheoscopy then ship her out. Get her breathing on her own and move her to the floor. Offer minimal physical therapy and if she refuses, move her out. It's not the nurses or the techs or the therapist, it's the insurance companies.

As I've mentioned before, we have to choose a "skilled nursing" facility (nursing home) to place Mama in for extensive therapy. She hasn't cooperated with the therapist at Restorative so, they can opt to move her out. Why can't they see that she is still very confused and anxious about everything that has happened?? She was over medicated by her personal physicians, which lead to her hospitalization. Because of the seriousness of her condition, she was placed in a paralytic state so her lungs would heal and the ventilator would do all of the work for her. It's going to take a long while for her mind to catch up. Also, we found out this week that she is still scheduled for Ativan on a daily basis. Ativan was one of the meds that she was taking at home and one of the reasons she is where she is. I've seen too many people walking around the halls with name tags and charts but nobody seems to be on the same page. HELLO?? Is anybody listening?

Life goes on..., school, work, church, grocery shopping, homework, dishes, laundry and BILLS!! These are every day occurences that are a part of our every day lives and they go on. Even if life throws you a curve and suddenly you are faced with a sick and aging parent that needs constant care.

Life goes on...., and God does provide. He provides a listening ear and arms to hold us. He provides loving husbands and wonderful children. He provides good
friends that pray for you and encourage you. We go on, we adjust.

Thanks

I just want to take this time to "THANK YOU" my wonderful friends and Prayer Warriors. These past few weeks have been very difficult and there is no way that we could have gotten through it without God's "Amazing Grace" and your love and prayers.

We still have a long road ahead of us and decisions to make but, I know that we will get through it.

Please continue to pray that God will strengthen Mom's body and clear her mind. She still has a lot of confusion and sometimes it's so hard for her to understand. Continue to pray that my health will hold out. I am feeling much better but, I will have to rearrange my schedule. I can't possibly keep going the way that I was trying to go, which was every day.

I love you all. You are all a special blessing from God.

Off-line

Hey guys- I'm going to be off-line for a few days. I'm having trouble with my B/P again and my asthma is acting up. So, I'm taking a couple of days to rest. Keep praying for Mom. We have to make a decision about moving her to a skilled nursing facility. Thanks.

Love you-
Megie

Great News!!

Mama has been moved to a regular room at Restorative Care. She is in room #218 and has a bed with a view. She can have a pureed and liquid diet now, which means we can take her a Wendy's Frosty. Continue to pray for her because she will begin extensive PT and speech therapy and it's going to be very rough at times. Thanks guys.

Love ya-
Megie

Up-date on Miss Maggie

Thank you for all of your prayers during this very difficult time. Mama is doing so much better. They have had her breathing on a "T" bar for the last three days. This means that she is actually breathing on her own. When we were there earlier this afternoon, she had been breathing on her own for about five hours. Her vitals are great and they are going to continue to let her breathe on her own for as long as she is able. Of course, she gets tired, but she is such a trooper. Hopefully, if she continues to progress, they will move her to a regular room. She will have PT to help build up her endurance and to help her get mobile. Please continue to pray for her because she still has a long road ahead of her. I love you guys very much and thank you for remembering me in your prayers as well. I had to go back on the prednisone, which I hate but, it's the only thing that will open up my lungs so I can breathe. I thank my God for wonderful, loving friends.

Mom's Big Move

Just wanted to give you guys an up-date on "Mom's Big Move." She was transfered to Restorative Care ICU, bed #2. The lung specialist assesed her condition this morning and decided that she has progressed well enough to be moved. Her vitals are good and she is awake. However, she is still very confused about the tracheoscopy and the move was stressful. Please continue to pray for Mama's continued progress and as she becomes more aware she will be less confused and anxious. Thank you all for your love and concern. Keep praying.

Love-
Megie

Up-date on Mama

Hey guys- just to up-date you on Mama's condition. We are at day 15 in ICU and yesterday they performed a trecheoscopy and moved her feeding tube to her stomach. The trech is better to manage and much more comfortable for Mama. She did very well during the procedure and she was even awake when we went back to see her in ICU. She is still very critically ill but, even in spite of the set-backs, is still showing some signs of improvement. I think the doctors under estimated Mama's fighting spirit because she continues to rally around. This week-end after the last set-back on Friday, the lung specialist told the nurses that she wouldn't last the week-end. Well, here we are at Tuesday morning and her vitals are good, her kidneys are functioning and her respiration is at a ratio of 8 to 16, which means she is breathing on her own at 16 breaths per minute. She has been opening her eyes and following our voices by watching us and turning her head. We asked her a question yesterday afternoon and she shook her head "No." She is raising her arms and moving her legs and even squeezes our hands. We still have such a long way to go but God's love and power has been so evident through all of this. GOD IS GOOD- ALL THE TIME- AND ALL THE TIME- GOD IS GOOD. He is an awesome GOD and we give HIM all of the glory and honor HE deserves for every blessing HE has given us. Please continue to flood the gates of Heaven on Mama's behalf. I love you all so very much. I will continue to up-date when I can.
Praying and Believing..., God is still on His throne and HE is in control. Praise HIS Holy Name.