13.1 used to be just a number

13.1 - there is a sticker on my car now.  Before Saturday, December 3rd, it was just a number.  It had no meaning.  Today, it does.  It means I can do things I never dreamed I would do.  It means I am stronger than I ever thought I was.  It means that we really can do anything we put our minds to doing.  Before last week the most I had run EVER was about 6.5 miles.  That was my goal, to run 6.5 and then walk the remaining miles and run when I could.  I just wanted to cross the finish line.

Suzanna Turner Flotta, Jennifer Guillot Goudeau and Monica Lejeune Mitchell talked me into running the St. Jude 1/2 Marathon, but the truth of the idea that I would actually run the whole thing was non-existent.  I didn't know I could.  It's living out the cliche "You don't know until you try."  I did much better than trying.  I won.  Ok, I didn't really win the race, I think I placed 3000 or something, maybe it was 30,000, it wasn't important.  What mattered was that I finished this race.  I ran across the finish line.  The adrenaline that was flowing in my body is indescribable.  The goal that I once thought was almost unattainable was reached.

Not only did I set a standard for myself, but I found a will and a strength inside of me that I just didn't think could be found.  I learned that running  is completely mental.  My feet started to hurt at mile 4 which was due to my shoes.  I pushed through all 9.1 that followed.  When I reached mile 11, I had the energy but my hips and quad muscles were hurting.  I kept telling myself that I could do it.  I kept saying over and over again that I could finish this.  I was not going to give up.  Once I finally passed mile 11 it was hard to determine what hurt more, walking or running, well at this point "jogging."  So I pushed through and "finished the race, I fought the good fight."  I think I made a lot of people proud, at least I made myself proud.

I'm also proud to announce that most of my pants are too big.  Financially it's a bit of a burden but a nice one to have.
I just can't describe the feeling, it was truly the most amazing feeling.  It is an accomplishment that no one can take away from me.  I'll forever have it in my head and my heart.  And come March, I'll have one more I hope. So when you see me running in a light green shirt, let me know if it "makes my butt look FAST!"   I have a feeling that it does.

Could I be more blessed and thankful?

Nope!  It's not possible.  The Lord God has blessed me beyond belief.  I could not have ever imagined that I would be in our very first home and celebrating our first Thanksgiving together in it this year.  So much has happened this year already.

Most importantly I'm thankful for my parents.  The year began with my father in ICU and the only thought I had in my mind during that time was whether or not we would be leaving the hospital with or without him.  I am so thankful that tomorrow I will have "thanksgiving" lunch with my Dad (and family).  It brings tears to my eyes, to think we were so close (twice) to losing him.  I'm am equally thankful for my mother and her faith in God to pull Dad through and what she taught me about faith in God.  Dad has always had a personal relationship with the Lord and if you ask him he can probably tell you more than you ever want to know, but I KNOW with everything I have that this experience strengthened his face.  It increased his pocketbook as well b/c he hasn't had a cigarette since January 1st, 2011.  Hallelujah!  Can you sing it for me? Mom knows how for sure.

The family that extends from those two people are icing on the cake of my life.  How great is the Love of our Savior?  So great that he gave me a HUGE family...thankfully they love my craziness unconditionally!

Granted there is not enough time in this day to list all the things I'm thankful for, and yes some are material in nature, but we all know that the most important ones are not.  I know that I can call on my brother, Jason and sister-in-law, Michele for anything at any moment in time.  I also can say without hesitation that my friends, most that I have know my ENTIRE life, will be there to laugh with me, cry with me, support me and sometimes hurt me.  It's good for us, that which doesn't kill us does indeed makes us stronger.  We are human so all of those things are bound to happen.  Thankfully for my group of friends, the laughter is abundant.  I am so thankful for that wonderful group of friends I was more than blessed with.

And then there is Carey Michael Poche, with whom today I wanted to beat with the remote control over the NBA lock out stuff, but thank God every single day that he is in my life and will be here until death do us part, aka - I kill him with said remote b/c he is the MOST stubborn human being on this planet.  He's not a handy man, but he has the voice of an angel.  He is not a brain surgeon, but I think he comes close.  He is not loud and crazy, like me, but he is complete opposite and that keeps me sane.  He is my husband and I look forward to creating little mini-mes (1/2 him and 1/2 me...hopefully all the good qualities combined).  Carey says they will have his teeth, his good looks, his blue eyes, his brains, his singing voice and his height! and his sense of humor too, go figure.   Those who know me well, know the good and bad, and I can't put into words what a perfect compliment to me, Carey is.  He truly loves me and is a wonderful man.  I am thankful for him.

The blessing continue b/c when you get Carey you also get Cathy Dufour, aka Mother-in-Law (even to all my friends) and Whitney Rate Dufour, aka The Whit!  Talk about being loved...I couldn't love them more than I do, nor could that love be reciprocated anymore than it is.  I must be doing something right in honoring our Lord the way I do, because the blessing are HUGE in my life.

This post wouldn't be so "Gwen" without me ending with something like this:

Thank you heavenly Father for blessing me with all of the things mentioned above and so much more.  I may not be as smart as I'd like, nor do I sing as well as I'd like, but I am thankful that I'm so darn good looking and know that I can do all things through you, because you give me strength (phil 4:13).

The Lord promises us "to prosper us, to give us hope and a future,"  we just need to keep trusting Him.

Thanks be to God.

Hello...

You can finish that sentence with a lot of different things.  I'm just saying that because I haven't written in a while.  It's been a whirlwind with the new job and new house.  Not to mention that Mom and Dad have been both not the most healthy of people and are back taking care of Maw-Maw, who is just slowly going down hill.  It's sad.  Unfortunately I don't go over there enough.

Carey is playing music tonight and I just finished a short 1 mile run.  I was throwing up and ____ earlier today.  There is a virus going around.  Once I got home I felt better, but I needed to be home to be closer to the bathroom, if you know what I mean.

I've been participating in a Bible Study in Donaldsonville on Wednesdays, running a lot in preparation for my first 1/2 marathon in Memphis.  I'm looking forward to seeing Jennifer Goudeau, Monica Mitchell and Suzanna Turner.  My reign as GBR SHRM PR Director is almost over and I'm excited to be able to come home, workout/run and then spend time with Carey and not have to check any emails etc.

That trip will also be Carey's and my 3rd wedding anniversary.  I wonder what the "item" is for that.  It's not like we follow the gift theme rules for marriage but whatever.  We don't do Christmas presents so I want to think of something good for him.  Neither of us need anything so IDK what we'll do.

Still loving this house and thanking God for this gift.  Also still have a few "fixes" that need to be done.  The fence for example is falling apart, who knows when that'll get done.  I'm hoping to have the boys sleep over for the first time ever...on Friday.  Not sure yet of what the plans are but we'll see.  Carey's playing music in Maurepas again so I figured it was a good time.

Time to go soak in the tub and finish the book I started a while ago.  Things have been crazy...so busy doing all sorts of stuff.  I did take my first business trip ever to Boston, Massachusetts and Cape Cod, it was gorgeous but very stressful.  I was definitely ready to come home after day 1.  HA HA.

Thanksgiving is next week and I'm super excited to spend some QT with my husband, whom I love and adore, in case I haven't mentioned that lately.  

29th Anniversary of Pre-School

Ha, you read that correctly.   Last night a group of us who all attended pre-school through 12th grade together (almost) enjoyed conversation and dinner.  Amy Falcon, Amy Hood Landry, Ashley Landry, Beth Spano Anthens, Danielle LeBlanc Guidry, Greta Schexnayder, Jennifer Martinez Daigle, Jenny Marque Riley, Jessica Lacombe Abadie, Kasie Cassard Guedry, Michelle Quaid, Melissa Sotile Zeller and myself went to Rotolo's it was much fun.  And to me we all look exactly the same, it wonderful to still be friends with these girls.

Amy F joined me afterwards at the house for a glass of wine and a little conversation and we both talked about our lives and how blessed we are and how happy we are.  As cliche' as it is...every thing does happen for a reason and I just can't say it enough...God knew what he was doing and still does know what He's doing in our lives.

I'm looking forward to having our first party next weekend for the LSU game.  It's going to be a house full but I am so thankful that we have room for everyone.  WHOO HOO.

Thanks be to God for this house, I love it!

No sweat Sunday...well sort of

Unfortunately I don't have much to share at this time.  Enjoying a quite Sunday with Carey.  I'm about to hit the treadmill and get some much needed points for my team at work.  We've started this Healthy Challenge and I need to work out.  Not to mention that my 1/2 marathon is only a mere 55 days away and I'm about 10 miles shy of running the entire thing.  I'm just struggling and I don't know why.

I guess as long as I run everyday I'm ok.  Trying to stay motivated.

Guess I need to stop wasting time and get to it.  I need more hours in a day to get things done.

Still loving our new house and thanking God everyday for this gift.  Promise to take pics soon and post on here so everyone can see what it looks like.  New living room furniture should be here this week or next.  I'm so excited.  I've forgotten what it looks like.  HA HA!

Love you all.
Gwen

Home, Sweet Home...I'm coming Home...Home is Where the Heart is...Go on Home

I can't stop thanking the Lord enough for being able to write this:  I'm home.  Sitting on the couch with my wonderful husband while he plays the Play Station, Pedro lying next to me ( he must be exhausted from sleeping all day) and having a Mimosa.  Oh the life.

I ran a few miles, cleaned up a bit, did some GBR SHRM work, visited with a friend to who had stopped by to see the new house, played online, had dinner, had a drink and am about to go for a tub soak.  I'll say it again, Oh the Life.

My best friend is about to move back to Louisiana and I'm STUPID excited to have her near me again.  We usually Skype on Saturday mornings over coffee, but the last few weekends have been crazy for the both of us and she has been having my computer, so it's been a while.  Hopefully even thought she'll be in LA, we'll still keep the tradition.  Heck, now we can actually have real coffee together and go for runs outside when the weather is nice.  Man, I can't wait.  Thanks be to God for this too.

I mean the more and more I sit here, the more I still don't understand what happened with this whole 'not moving into the house on time' issue, the more I know that I trusted God and he worked everything out, we got the house we love and wanted.  We now live in the house that I prayed so unceasingly and diligently.  What an amazing God we serve.

Thank you God.  For Football Season and friends.  Amber and I are driving up to Arkansas to see Katie in two weeks how awesome is that?  WHOO HOO, can't wait.  We'll have to remix from '96 ready to go, it'll be a long drive, but TOTALLY worth it.  I miss those girls.

-G

Home, Sweet, Home ?

  So what makes a home?  I closed on the sale of my condo this morning at 9:30 and thought I'd leave there head to another closing of my new house and live happily ever after with my husband.  Not so much.   The closing today didn't happen.  There isn't a clear title on the house and you can't close on a house without one.  They have asked for a 15 day extension and therefore have 15 days to get a clear title or we can get out of the contract.  
  I have very mixed emotions.  I was in love with the house, sort of still am.  It's everything we want in a house.  All of the drama has left me in a bad spot.  A part of me wants them to delay the title issues and we can look for a new house.  But I know that it is unlikely that we'll find a house that we love as much as this one.  
  If it's meant to be our house then we will move in within the next few weeks...if God's plan is give us the perfect house then it will happen.  I know it's all for a reason, it happens over and over again in life and I've seen it more than once in my own.  
  Carey and I "moved in" to Ashley's house yesterday.  Today we moved all of our stuff out of the Penske truck and into Carey's Maw Maw's garage.  Thankfully it's not costing us anything.  It already cost us $311 for the truck, plus the approximately $1600 or so that we've already spent on the house thus far.  The good thing is that if it doesn't happen they will owe us all of our money back. 
   Carey just said "it feels weird to not have a house.  It's strange that we'll never go back to that condo again."  I had to tell him home is where the heart is.   So cliche' I know, but at this point it is the truth.  I sort of miss it already, probably because we don't have a real home right now.  Thanks be to God for Ashley (and all the friends that offered us a space) but she said it and her Mom said it, "that's what friends are for."  They are right.  I'd do anything for my friends and I'd expect they'd do the same.  They are doing the same.  :)  God knew what he was doing when he brought Ashley into my life or vice versa.  She is amazing.  
  Just like I have to for most events in my life I have to put total faith in God and trust that things will happen the way the should and we'll end up with the house we're meant to have and raise our family in, no matter which one and no matter what it took to get there.
  God's plan for us is perfect.  I just hope we don't have to climb anymore mountains...but then again it'll be totally worth it and I'll be appreciative of what I have. 


AMEN.   I'm ready for a house.  So thankful that we've got the condo sold.  

Being Thankful

I''m disappointed in myself. I think I may have mentioned it previously that I feel like God answered my prayers and I've been telling Him thank you everyday, but what is being Thankful?  Is it just saying it?  How can I act it?  Well we hit a few bumps in the house buying process and I can honestly say that I've failed God's test and have not acted Thankful for the way things are going.  What I have done is let the devil fill my mouth with ugly and angry words.

Now I need to pray for forgiveness and ask God to bless me and continue to answer my prayers, guiding us in this process. God knows what's best for us and in this instance God knew that giving me everything without having to work for it, would not be good for me.

I hear Him speaking to me...I have to be quite to hear it.

How Great is the Love of Our Savior?

I came home to some not-so-good news and found my self very angry and upset. I picked up my iPod and went for a run, only to find myself sitting on the steps of the Catholic Radio station down the street having a conversation with myself and God as to why there was suddenly something/someone trying to take my dream away from me.  I  didn't run as far or for as long as I thought I would, but when I neared the house on my return trip, "How Great is the Love" by Meredith Andrews came on my iPod and it just reminded me that our God loves us so much that He would never do something to harm us nor would he give us trials that we can't handle.  What is happening with the house is not really in my control at this point and if I really want this house, which I do, I'm going to have to be willing to give in a bit.  I have to pray that God continues to bless this situation and that it works out for the best for Carey and I.

I know the devil is using this time of weakness to get to me, my prayer and petition in regards to this house has been so strong for so long, yet at the instance of struggle or imperfection, I let my anger take control and start complaining and being ugly, knowing that the person on the "other end" isn't feeling any of my hatred/dislike.  It's not remedying the situation in anyway.

I have to be strong, we have to stand our ground and continue to pray that our Lord is blessing this transaction.  It's just that in that small moment I saw myself homeless.  Perhaps we jumped the gun with things, but I just know God answered my prayers with this house and I feel now that He is reminding me that we can't forget about Him no matter what the situation is, b/c He never stops loving us and blessing us.  I just pray that the sellers of our house find compassion in their hearts and work with us, following the rules and guidelines/deadlines of the contracts that we have signed.   Following the rules should apply for everyone.

God rose from the grave to make things happen in our lives, but we must, I MUST, remain strong in my prayer and petition (thanksgiving too) in asking that everything runs smoothly over the next week and 1/2 before we move into THIS house.

The devil WILL NOT win this one.  Jesus is Lord almighty.

AMEN Lord, Amen.

NEW, NEW, NEW

New house in the works - THANKS to God.  New job is going fabulously and I couldn't be more grateful to the Lord for sending it to me.  Now I have a new hair cut.  I feel like a completely new woman.  I ran this morning and I just feel great.  Carey is at work, I packed a few more things and am just excited about this weekend and this day.

Waiting on Erica to go shop for a big with her.  She needs a new bedroom comforter set.  I may look for one as well, just to get ideas.

Pedro is sad.  He has been watching me pack and I truly think that he thinks we are leaving him.  Poor baby.  My angel, I would never leave him.  I can tell he has been crying.  It's so sad.  Makes my heart hurt.  I want him to know he's my baby.

Gosh I'm just thrilled about the new house.  I know it's getting old already but the idea hasn't really sunk in yet.  I brought all the final paperwork to Derek at Fairway Mortgage and all I'm waiting on is my next pay check.  Then closing on the 29th...wHOOO hOOOO.

Here is my new hair:

I usually cut my hair about once a year...so it's funny that my hair stylist was shocked we cut about 8 inches off...give or take.  It needed it though so bad.

I'm enjoying it so far...but I have to actually fix it now.

Is home where the heart is?

Fortunately, my heart is in many places. This weekend my heart started off in limbo, praying that our offer on a house would be accepted.  I finalized the purchase of a house, via telephone, with Carey on one end and our realtor Mindy on the other. The day had finally arrived. Our condo sold and we had found a house we loved in a matter of a few days.  Truly God's hand was in everything that was happening it couldn't be possible otherwise and although I worried and I asked many people for prayers, I just asked for God to guide us in this process and thanked Him at the same time for "our House."  I just knew it was the right one for us.  I had prayed for 2 1/2 years for the right buyer and the perfect house for us, what God's will for us would be and it just so happened that he taught me patience as everything fell into place with a new job and selling this condo, buying a new house and an unfortunate hospital trip with Dad.  I'm amazed at how nervous and anxious I've been and at the same time very strong, patient and decisive all thing that I normally am not.

Thanks be to God.  We will have a house we can grow into.  I'm still in shock.  I went to Houston this 4th of July weekend and the "owners" of our house were out of town also, but we managed to make a deal over the phone.  Tomorrow we'll sign the necessary papers and meet with our mortgage guy to make sure everything is ready to go on our new house.   I hate to jinx it but I wanted Mom and others to see it, so I've sent pics to a few people.  I'm so proud to have a house and it has all the things that I wanted: driveway in the back of the house, a nice yard, big closet in the master bath, shower separate from the tub, and the kitchen and living room NOT on top of one another.  I am excited to have Christmas at my house, sorry, OUR house.  I can't wait to have Aidan and Alec and Davis come to sleep over at "Nannie and Uncle Carey's house.  Presley and Kensley, I'm sure will be hanging out a lot too.  How exciting. I still think it's too good to be true, but God hasn't ever let me down and he has fulfilled His promise to answer my prayers.

Now, I went to Houston suddenly to be "there" for my college buddy and friend of 15 years, Michelle.  She broke up with her boyfriend of 3 years and I felt like she needed me to be there for her so I drove over, a short 4 hours to be with and cheer up a good friend.  I knew she would do that for me at any moment if necessary and there was not doubt about that, so it took only a few seconds for me to say- I'm coming to be with you.  We had a great weekend, enjoyed dinner, shopping, drinks and such.  We reminisced and laughed.  It was a great time.  Now I'm trying to get her to move to Baton Rouge now.  That would be great.

So, in the last two weeks I had left one job, started another one, sat in the Emergency room with my family, put my dad into the hospital, sold my condo, searched for a new house, put a purchase agreement on a new house, shop for refrigerator, clean my house, packed items and visit Houston!  Whew.  I'm pooped, but I'm so excited about going to work tomorrow and that is a good thing.

We got a house!
WHOOP WHOOP!
Thank you Lord.

Love

Carey always makes fun of me when I'm watching movies because I cry, usually at all of them.  It doesn't matter the theme. If it is a movie about love, it puts me into a romantic mood and so I'm here writing.  I caught the end of letters to Juliet and as they found true love 50 years after they first met, I realized my true love is with me.  He's not physically here now (he's working) but I know that he is my love.  The only love I need..my true love.  We will celebrate 5 years together (dating and marriage) this coming July and it feels the same as it did when we were "dating."  You know what that means, when things are always happy and wonderful and easy.  Fortunately for Carey and I it's always that way....easy.  We talk things out, we pick at one another, we love!

I just love him and I told him via text just now and I'll tell him everyday forever.
Just wanted it to be written down.

Blame it on the rain....AGAIN.

It has been raining for quite some time now and it sucks.  I have a head cold so I can't hear, smell, breathe (well), or taste much of anything.  My girl Ashley is sleeping over b/c Carey is at training in Houston and I didn't want to sleep by myself...YES I'm a sissy.  She and I went to the hospital to see Dad, b/c he's there again.

This Father's Day was very special, since we started the year in the ER with a tube down his throat and the chances for him to live, less than the opposite. I'm so glad to got to "celebrate" the day with my Dad this year and I dread the day that I don't have him (or Mom) on their special day.  On Father's Day he laid on the couch in pain all day and slept.  I didn't really get to even spend the day with him.  I should have simply been grateful for having him around, b/c Sunday evening mom took him to the ER and then again on Monday.  We spent the entire evening in the ER...brought back memories, but I would do this one all over again and the last visit...NOT IN A MILLION YEARS.  I guess I need to be reminded how much I love my Dad and how much I take him for granted.  I also take for granted how close we live.  35 minutes is not that far...I need to make an extra effort to spend more time over in Donaldsonville...why does it take crazy times like these to make me see what a wonderful thing I have in my parents.

Dad's potassium levels are still high and I'm anxiously awaiting his return home.  I know it seems selfish but Mom only has a few days off left for this year and I don't want her to have to spend them in the hospital.  Hopefully Dad gets better soon.  Doctors said he almost went in acute renal failure again.  I laid in the bed with him last night and hugged him.  I love my Dad so much.  I love Mom equally of course.

On a happier note, Carrie and Chris had  a beautiful baby boy named Ethan Mark "Baby Goat" Wolfe.  That is what I'm calling him.  I could have bet my life she was having a girl, but thankfully I did not.  I'm happy he's home and Mom and baby are doing SO well.

I started my new job on Monday, yes a new job.  I can't believe it either, but I crossed over to private industry and so far, it's WONDERFUL.  God truly had his hand in this move.  Although I enjoyed working at DOTD, I met and worked with some great people, I feel like this is a great fit for me.  I am already learning new things and I'm excited about them.  My career is moving full speed ahead and I'm so excited to learn all of the things about compensation and other state rules and regulations.  I would have never been able to do that working for the State.  What an opportunity this is!

I love it.  I pray that it only gets better.  Granted there are things about it that are different and I don't have the million paid holidays, but I'll live.  Next year will account for the first year EVER where I don't have off on Good Friday and Mardi Gras.  :(     I mean what kind of company does not give the employees off for Mardi Gras?

I'll save enough time so that one day I can take off those days...yeah right.  Carey has finally agreed to ITALY....whoo hoo, so many next Spring we'll go.  Easter in Rome?  WOW, probably a million extra people there, but you never know.

I Make Plans

Well let me say that if you know me, you know I try to make plans and yet still believe that whatever God has planned for us will happen, so I try to be a bit flexible with my plans for lack of better words.  Two days ago my devotion had this title.


James 4:14 - Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow.  What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes." 


The important thing this particular devotion was saying focussed on the question "What is your life?"  God expects us to use our talents to further His Kingdom to the best of our abilities and that is what we should be doing.  Do I do that enough?  Of course not, do I try my best to work for His Kingdom everyday? probably not.  I want to, I pray for the Lord's guidance everyday to work diligently for Him.

I am starting a new job on June 20th and I'm beyond thrilled about it. Not something I planned, it "fell in my lap" so to speak.  God showed it to me and with a subtle nudge, I applied and got it.  My interview was amazing, I rocked it, although a bit nervous.  I came out on top.  Now I can say, this job was meant for me.  This being the reason that the other job I had applied for didn't pan out.  (Those were the only two jobs, I wasn't looking to leave DOTD.)  Still it happened and a greater opportunity is in store for me.  In the mean time we're still trying to sell our condo and I've had to lower the price again, :(.  I know that God is leading us to the right buyer and I'm trusting in Him.  I've said the novenas, put the St. Joseph statue in the ground, prayed to the Lord directly of course, listed the house - I've done my part.  It is in God's hands now.  Where are you buyer?  Please come see my house?  I have been contemplating how we would pay for a larger, more expensive house.  I've been wondering where the larger bills will come from, now I see the new job will take that burden.   This new job also pushes back our "baby" plans if there is such a thing for us.  I'm OK with that.  Carey has become the Godfather to Chad and Andrea's baby girl Kensley and so we have another "child" to buy for during holidays and such.  I hope Carey opens his heart to the Lord and truly becomes a guide for Kensley to know her Father and be a child of God.  Perhaps this is the additional tug on Carey's heart.  My tugging has changed him a bit, but not enough.  There is more room for God in our lives, that is a certainty.

Maybe that is my talent, or one of them; bringing God and His word to others.  Guess I have a lot of studying of the Bible to do.  Still I'm trying to do my part in this life and as always trusting that God will let everything fall into place, just as He always has.

So as I open my Bible, knowing that the verse I fall upon will be appropriate, I come to a few that don't really "mean" anything and then I see it.  The Agony in the Garden and the words stick out "...still, not my will but your will be done." Luke 22:42  Does it get more obvious than that? It's all about trust, it's one of the hardest things to do in life. 

Walk in HIS ways, Not mine

I cannot tell a lie.  This is not my blog today.  I go searching every now and again for blogs and for whatever reason I stumbled upon this one.  I have no idea who she is or where she lives, I didn't even get that far.  Her post this particular day reminded me of the Title, as my friend Faye often reminds me...."His ways, Not our own."

Today especially as I am anxious about various things, I have to remember to just walk in God's light and know that His path for me and His timing is utterly PERFECT.  No other explanation is needed.  Thought you might like to read this post as well.


Over the past 10 months, I have had a lot of ah-ha moments... about myself, my faith, motherhood, ministry work and more. It's amazing to me that God is always at work. Even in the mundane things like going to the grocery store I find that when I am open to what God is trying to show me, I walk away blessed and humbled.

Last week I ran to Kroger after dropping off a co-worker after a lunch meeting. I was doing the typical working-mom thing where I had a list and wanted to run in and run out with as little distraction as possible (well technically I FORGOT my list and my darling husband emailed it to me). See, I was on a mission.


In.

Out.

Done.   With as little human interaction as possible.

Once inside I ran into a long time friend whom I hardly ever have the pleasure of catching up with ---- it was a welcome distraction and we planned a coffee date. It put a little pep in my step and forced me to breathe for a moment, recalculate what was "really important" and finish my shopping at a normal speed, not a mad-woman speed. I finished my shopping with a smile and calm spirit.

So after I shopped and got out to my car is when it happened. The moment that God needed me for. I got in my car and took a deep breath and started to check my email on my phone because it had been dinging like crazy the whole time I was in the store. I felt a little overwhelmed and put my phone in my lap and just sat there in the parking lot. One row over I watched a man trying to push his grocery cart and then load his car. He was missing an arm and one leg was in a soft cast from his toes to his mid-thigh.

"I should go help him." I thought.

God said to wait.

His cart rolled away from him while was loading the car and I unbuckled my seatbelt.

God said wait.

"Ok I'll wait .... but I should offer to put his cart away."

God said, "yes - go now."

I walked up and said, "man, I was in a walking boot for an entire year and it was miserable, I commend you for making it all the way out here and getting your groceries loaded --- and I would love to bless you by putting your cart away for you."

His smile said it all. He needed someone to care for him, not feel pity for him. If I would've rushed to his side immediately, it would've been because I would've "felt bad" for him and his situation. Winded, he thanked me and said that it would be crazy helpful to put his cart away. As he was getting into his car he said, "the arm happened a long time ago in a war, but the leg has been an ongoing issue for months and months - the tissue is diseased and I'm praying it doesn't take my life."

I asked him if I could pray for him - and he said he would much appreciate me praying for him. I got his first name, and as I walked away I fervently prayed for this man who clearly still wanted to be dependent but just needed a friend.

Makes me wonder how many times I've rushed through my day, missing God moments left and right because I'm on my path and not His.


Deuteronomy 11:22
For if you will be careful to do all this commandment that I command you to do, loving the Lord your God, walking in all his ways, and holding fast to him,


Let today be a reminder to take it easy.  Not to rush through the wonderful gift this day is to us and remember that God's way is the only way.  And He will take care of us.  That promise He has already made. 

Listen to walk God is telling you...I know I need to.

Life is a beach, then you get back to work.

I like to think that when women are relaxing on the beach, thinking a multitude of things, that occasionally how they feel about their body comes into play.  Then they look at every person, man or woman, that passes by and judges them.  Too fat, too skinny, too much muscle, not enough muscle, ugly bathing suit, not enough bathing suit, etc.  That is the thought.  This is the first trip I've taken where I am 10lbs lighter that I used to be and I actually feel ok about my body.  What I realized for the first time is that every single person that passed by had something that I would change.  So I figure if that body was my actual body and I wanted to change something, I'm sure they feel the same way.  I realize that every person that passed by was different and made differently on purpose.  That this is how God wanted me to be, then I'm ok with this, because He is perfect.  He loves me and my life is because of him.

Girls Weekend...

I know there is a reason it's called "Girls" Weekend, we leave the husbands/boyfriends etc, home.  However, when you bring a large canopy it is sometimes helpful to have a man around to put it up and take it down.  I think we did a good job, but it still would have been nice to have a couple guys around to do it for us.

I love trips to Florida with girls it's always a blast, but I miss my husband already.  Everyone says that this will go away that one day I won't really care if I'm away from him, but strangely enough, I LOVE HIM soooo much and  I miss him when I'm away.  I know I've said that before and I know there are some of you that are "barfing" mentally as I talk about him.  Granted we didn't have much to talk about when I called to check on him and Pedro too of course.   We actually did "face time" sort of video chatting, but Pedro could only hear me.  He didn't "know" to look at the phone.  Pedro isn't the smartest dog in the world of course.  Guess you can't have it all, cuteness and brains.  Like me, I'm cute, but not the most intelligent person in the world.  My husband on the other hand was blessed with both:  he's darn cute and brilliant.  AND he can sing.  that is SOOOO not fair.  HA.

Well I'm in Fort Walton with some ladies I used to work with briefly at the La Workforce Commission.  We have a lovely view and are here until Monday.  It's Memorial Day weekend, I'm thankful beyond measure for our service men and women, and I am hoping and praying for their safe return home.  So glad to be here, I needed a tan so bad.  Hopefully I'm nice and bronzed when I get home.  I won't be back at the beach for another two months when we do our 2nd (should be third) Flotta-Poche family vacation.  In fact in December our Memphis trip could be called the 3rd, since we're all running a 1/2 marathon together.  OUCH...I still cannot believe they have talked me into it.

I definitely have to run in the morning.

Patience is a virtue.

For the first time in my life, I have patience.  It's just when you think you've finally gotten to a point where you are ok with the way things are, you're happy and enjoying life: well it's then that God sends a curve ball.  Thankfully the curve ball that is to come is a lot of GOOD curves.

Right now I'm patiently waiting on an offer on our condo.  I trust that if it's meant to be it will be.  Every day that I run (I don't run everyday, don't get confused) I run past houses that are for sale.  Some of those houses have been for sale longer than ours, others not as long.  It makes me wonder, why our house?  Why not their houses? I just have to keep trusting, because I know that my house, the one where I will raise my family, is out there, waiting for me.  Same goes for this condo, it's waiting for someone special - they will be here soon, I just know it.

I haven't written in a while and wanted to drop in.  I'm not living up to my "promise" to this blog.
"If God is for us, than who can be against us? "

Enough said.

Happy Birthday Carey...and Davis.

Well Carey is still celebrating his birthday 6 days later and as he says (and I quote) "technically it's still my birthday week."  Which ends tomorrow.  The truly wonderful man that he is, has given me the money his Mom gave him for "his birthday" although she gave him two presents already. He's spoiled.  We are spoiled. I like it.  I cannot tell a lie.  HA!

I'm excited to say we have someone coming to look at the condo on Monday and I hope that they are "the one."   I am trusting in God's plan, I keep saying that I know, but it's true.  I just know that it'll work out.

Sandra is in the hospital and was about to go into surgery around 5:30...I'm going to call and check on her in a minute.  Mr. Emile Spano is there as well, I spoke to Beth before I left earlier today.

I was supposed to do my first bike ride tomorrow morning but with Davis' party at 2pm and me having to be back and ready to head to Donaldsonville right after, I just won't have time.  Deborah and Jefferey Dinino are getting married tomorrow night in Destrehan and Mom and I are going should be nice and fun.  I wish Carey could come, I just LOVE when he puts on a suit...>YUMMY!  He has to work and then he's going to practice, so needless to say I won't see him at all tomorrow.  :( Which is not unusual for a weekend when he's working.

Hopefully I'll wake up early enough and get a nice 3 miles run in tomorrow, b/c my tummy still hurts from eating to much at Sammy's and so I'm yet to work out today...this is the only thing I hate about Fridays.

So HAPPY Birthday to my precious Angel Davis...I hope you know how much I love you and to my wonderful and beautiful husband. I love you more than should be allowed by a person. You're mean so much to me.  I wouldn't be as happy as I am right now, if you were not in my life.

the 31 Woman

Suzanna - this is for you love.

Today's devotion was about the 31 Woman and how we should get down on our needs and ask God to help us be that woman. Respected by her husband, honored by her children and a hard and passionate worker.  The writer of this devotion mentioned how that was the Lord's reason for writing about this woman.  So that we could go to Him and ask for the things that we need in our lives to be THAT woman.

What do we need in our lives to be that?  I'm each of us has a least that is quite long.  I believe that if we openly discussed it, we could add to our lists.  We all know what I shortcomings are, but do we ask God to help us along the way so that we can strive to be better, to get closer to being the woman described there.

Proverbs 31:10-31 - let it be a lesson to us.
What is it exactly that we want to be?  What do we want to be for our friends and our families?
How far are we from being there?  Have I asked God today, to help me on that journey?

Happy Mother's Day

I never thought the day would come when I realize that My Mom is the best Mom EVER!  I know that everyone says that, but I really mean it.  She  makes life wonderful.  She sacrificed so may things so that I would not go without.  She gave up a lot so that I could go to Catholic School.  She taught me everything I know.  She makes me laugh sometimes and I love that I can do it to her by saying things that she would always say to me.  I mean we have reversed roles since I've grown up. Granted I'm a worry wart just like her and I "can't" throw things away because well, ask her.  I find myself doing things the way she does.  I'm turning into her, it's scary, but amazing.  I love knowing that I can turn to her no matter what.

I turn to her first, it's because she will never let me down, I know that.  She has never let me down before.  I know that she would give her life for me as I would for her.  Today is more than Mother's Day.  There really aren't the words to describe.  Well there are, but I don't know if could adequately describe what she is to me.

I appreciate so much more because of how she raised me.  I worry too much because I'm just like her.  I'm loving, compassionate and hopeful too because of her.  I am so thankful that she is my mother.  I hope I can be like her when I am older and I hope my children will understand my reasons for decisions and realize, as I do now, that "Mom knows best."

I love you Mom.

There is no one more committed to her  honoring God and teaching me to be thankful for everything.  She has always taught me to ask God for the things I want, but also trust that He will make things happen for me.

Volleyball - it's become a full contact sport

Yes that is correct. Volleyball is full contact. OK, so it's accidental full contact, but the truth of the matter is that last night, I went left, Amber went right...her knee right into my thigh that is. So much for running my way to a size 2. It was funny and painful, I called a "time-out" while crying and laughing and everyone kept playing. No one believed that I was as hurt as I was. It's like I pulled a muscle or something. It's really uncomfortable. I have no idea, really, what actually happened. I just know that I can't run/job/bike or walk very well. Bending my leg is not an option at this point, I can do it, it just hurts pretty bad. I guess things could be worse.

Tomorrow is Friday and for that I am SOOOO thankful. I have to admit the days fly by at DOTD, it no wonder why people work there for 20, 30 and even 50 years. Before you know it, it's been 1 year and 3 months...my how time flies.

If I haven't told you lately, I love my husband. He's on the couch right now and has to be the cutest thing ever. Although Pedro is pretty cute too. I was going to add some pics, but the computers (yes with an "s" because we have two) aren't working the way they should. Actually if you count the iPad and two cell phones, then we have 5. Are we spoiled or what?

It's Mother's Day weekend. Carey and Pedro's birthday on Saturday also. I'm taking my sweet husband to Gino's Italian Restaurant for his big day. That's where he wants to go, I mean he's 31, he should get a proper Italian meal, and believe me he will.

I'm looking forward to spending a bit of time with him this weekend. He's off, I have a mani/pedi at 10 and he'll be sleeping anyway. Then he'll leave early to go to Mandeville to play music. At least I know I'll see him on Sunday.

Corporate Cup - 5K

So I guess you could say I'm an avid runner again.  I run 4 days a week, plus bike a couple...so I'm a freak I guess.  Well here is a pic from the 2011 Corporate Cup Race...I ran 3.1 miles in 32.15 (I think) better than last years 36 minutes.  I ran 3.18 miles the other day in 28 minutes so I'm super pumped about that.  I'm feeling a lot better too!

This is me and our Chief Engineer being silly because I was supposed to beat him in the race.  He smoked me however, we enjoyed the rivalry.  Maybe next year.

...The General now...it's not just for insurance.

I really enjoyed the devotional today.  It talked about life bringing good and bad things and how we easily thank God for the many blessings, but when things aren't "going our way" we sometimes try to handle it by ourselves.  We might pray but it's quick and impersonal "God please help."   We typically put on our armor and fight the way we know how as best we can.  What we need to do is put it all on God.  Let Him lead this army of one, let Him be the General.  We have to have Faith...that seems to be a recurring phrase for me.  Matthew 17:20, we need only faith the size of a mustard seed to move mountains right?

Romans 8:28 "We know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him."


I know that my love for Him is great, but not nearly as His love for me.



To change the pace...I had a very interesting night at Volleyball.  Amber and I ran into each other and she kneed me in the thigh.  I'm am still in so much pain, I'm just waiting for this HUGE bruise to show up on my leg.  I know it'll be there in the morning.  We'll see.

Tornadoes and Floods and Wars, O My

I'm in shock right now.  The devastation in Alabama and a number of other states is unbelievable, it's like Katrina all over again.  Then the rising of the Mighty Mississippi has everyone at DOTD going crazy, with the Ferry's and Surveyors and people scurrying around making assessments, I'm wondering what the after effect will be on Donaldsonville.  Although the war is still going on, our Navy Seals have killed Osama Bin Laden.  I was talking about it at work and I called him Obama Sin Laden.  WHHOOOPS!

If you know me, I use that statement a lot on here don't I?  Well if you do, you'll know that all I listen to on the radio, at least 90% of the time, is Christian Radio.  It's just a great start to my day and a great way to "detox" on the way home.  Regardless, of my reasons for listening, it's good stuff.  I have some very moving and profound realizations while I'm listening to that music.  I keep telling myself, I'll start blogging about a certain song and lyrics in said songs, but I can't seem to get a set schedule...too much stuff going on.

I have to go watch Glee, apparently the light from the computer is driving my husband a bit loony.  Later...

Busy as a Bee.....

Today was a crazy day.  I couldn't possibly have fit more into today.  I'm hanging out at home with Pedro (who just snapped at me - BAD DOG) and watching TV. I really need to get on the treadmill, I rode the bike today but only did a short workout, so I was hoping I could get on the treadmill but I'm exhausted. What I'm thinking is that although I'm dressed to run, I'm going to jump into bed and hit the sack early.  I have to be in Donaldsonville for about 8:30 in the morning to teach children's church (I'm actually nervous) so I need to be up and at 'em around 7am...that is going to come early.

I still have to write about my awesome run the other day and the song "What Do I Know of Holy" by Addison Road.  It came on while I was running and caused me to really think about things while actually running.  Perhaps I'll do that tomorrow.

Disappointed in myself....

Yesterday afternoon I ran the best I have since I started "running" again.  3.18 miles in about 28 minutes or so.  I felt great.  This afternoon I was determined to bike at least 7.  My workout consisted of the following:  speed cleaning my condo (someone is coming to look at it tomorrow PRAISE GOD!), ran to Albertson's to get fresh flowers (they make me happy and hopefully they do the same for whomever is coming to look at the house), ran to Target to get a baby gift, wrapped said baby gift, wrapped (bagged) a wedding gift, picked out something appropriate to wear to a baby shower and early afternoon wedding (in the same day) and picked up the ever so healthy TACO BELL for dinner.  BAD GWEN.  I'm disappointed in myself.  If I had come in, changed clothes and went right out the door on foot or bike, either way, I would have felt so much better than I do right now. And after that unhealthy dinner, I absolutely have to work our tomorrow before my 9 am hair appointment.  I am letting myself down every time I don't work out....even if it's just walking on the treadmill for 15 minutes.

Carey has to work and play music in Maurepas so I won't see him at all tomorrow, :(.
Overall I had a great day at work, I was in a good mood due to the royal wedding.  It just made me happy.  I loved her dress, although I thought it could have been more "pah dow" but that isn't really Kate's style.  She was royal and classic and just beautiful.  I didn't like her flowers, but then I'm sure she didn't really care what I liked.  When it comes down to it, it's between she and Will and God and I think God is happy.  And even though I'm married to my own Prince, I would have liked to be there: to view, just be in London, to be the bride, whatever!  

Happy Royal Wedding Day everyone...Happy day it is.
I'm going to join Carey in bed, b/c 7 am will come early.  Coffee is being made already (self timer).  I'll go for a run, take a bath, get a haircut at 9 am, come home do my face, get dressed, go to Jamie's while the Realtor shows the house (gifts for shower and wedding are in the car already), drop off clothes at cleaners, go to shower, go to wedding, then home to chill with my dog and wait for Carey to get home around mid-night.

Oh gosh, I have to print out the stuff for Children's Church on Sunday....I'm sort of nervous.  I've never taught Children's Church before....God help me!

Royal Wedding Day

Quickly and I'll write more later, but today is "Royal Wedding Day" and I am so happy for Prince William and Kate, a commoner. She is the first commoner to marry into Royalty in 350 years...WOW. She was beautiful. Although I missed the precession and ceremoney, I did see the two balcony kisses and of course, being the freakishly emotion woman that I am. I cried. Just a wee bit of course, but I was just moved, it was so sweet and elegant, just lovely.

Hanson

Yes, I said it.  Hanson - the boy group, only they are all grown up now.  Um..Bop just doesn't sound the same since their voices have all matured.  They are on Dancing with the Stars, although I think this is last weeks episode.  I don't really watch it this season, I usually do and so it automatically recorded.  Anyway, Tom Bergeron says Hanson has a new album out.  WHAT?  Yeah they are going to singing their new song later on.  Should be interesting.  I'm in bed, I left work early because I suddenly felt extremely nauseated....NO I'm not pregnant.  You know you were thinking that.  I had to tell Elizabeth (we had planned to go shop for ANOTHER baby gift for someone) and of course she asked that question...more than likely not, but I guess you don't know until you know.

Everyone asks me that, but I guess it comes with being 32 and married for more than 2 years...guess it won't stop until we have one and then it'll be, "when are you having another one?"  I'm ready for it - NOT.

I need to work out but I still am not feeling very well.  At least the "fever/fainting like" symptoms have gone away, b/c I swear I almost passed out at Ms. Dortha's desk this afternoon.

I'm excited that my best friend is coming into town tonight.  Can't wait to see her tomorrow.

24 hours is not enough

There are not enough hours in a day. I meant seriously, it's 9:08 pm and I'm yet to take a shower and the hornets play at 9:30 - it's the play-offs baby and YOU KNOW I LOVE BASKETBALL! Wake up, go to work, a friend's mother's wake (so sudden and sad), then home, quick 5.5 (BOO_ YOW) bike ride and some iPod psynchage and here I am.

Todays devotion on my iphone app said lots of great things. I wanted to touch on this statement:

"Simply going through the motions of reading God's Word was honestly not enough to light my path or transform my perspective" the write says. Does our heart really understand what our head knows. I go in spurts where I'm passionate about things and then they die down and then I get passionate again. I sometimes wonder if I just want to try and do too many things in 1 day or 1 evening, knowing that if I did fewer things well I would happier and more fulfilled. Am I "storing the information in the wrong spot?" What a great way to look at it. Yes I know the words of Scripture, but am I feeling them the way I should be? I need to study more and yearn for more. I need MY heart to understand the verses my head already knows. I need to know how to hold on and hide "His word in my heart..." Psalm 119:11

I had a wonderful conversation with my friend Dana today, we didn't talk nearly as long as I think we could have, as we have lots to catch up on. It sucks that the distance between people can be more than just miles. I do my best to call, write and text friends to let them know I'm thinking of them. It's another reason I don't want to get on facebook again. I spend so much time looking at pictures, reading peoples complaints about things or playing games that I throw away valuable time that could be spent building on those relationships that I have already spent the last 30 years (some fewer of course, in Dana's case about 10) nurturing.

As I've said, I've enjoyed my Lenten journey away from Facebook and into the world of blogging and devotion. I promised myself that I wouldn't use this as just an out to complain about things, when there is so much more in my life to rejoice in and be thankful for. Don't worry, if you know me, you know I can complain but then name me one person you know doesn't? Thank you.

One thing I'm thankful for is that tomorrow is Wednesday. Nicole will be here on Thursday and I'm SOOOOO looking forward to that and having a girls night. I miss my girls. That is all.

Proud Mary...

If ever there was a job where you felt more like it was "hanging out with family everyday" than going to work, then that job was at LSU HCSD.  My friend Elizabeth, whom I love and adore, thankfully was also employed there with me.  Sometimes it seems that we never left that place because we all pick up right where we left off and all stay in touch pretty regularly.  I love those people...very special memories there: post Katrina, pre-Carey,  wedding plans, I mean the list goes on.

This past Good Friday I  had the pleasure of going on the "Proud Mary" for her maiden voyage.  We had a blast, weather was perfect, crown was small, boat was AWESOME!  Here are few pics;

Jesus is RISEN today.

It's the holiest day of the year and the most wonderful.  Jesus the Christ is risen from the dead today and saved us.  We can live eternally in heaven with him because of God's sacrificial only son.  What a honor.  I feel so blessed and loved.  I'm so thankful for all the blessings in my life and I was lucky to spend today with a great majority of them.  I saw my nephews yesterday and then my pseudo-nieces (Presley and Kensley Kling) and my pseudo-nephews (Cam and Cash Painter) and my wonderful Godson Davis.  My Dad, Mom and Maw Maw Roberta, joined us in G-town and it was a wonderful day.

Had two nice runs today, watching the Hornets game with my love and my love-dog (that's what I call Pedro, instead of love child) :).  Now if we can just get this condo sold, all will be perfect in the Poche world.

Happy Easter!

"Happy Easter!" Carey says to me. "it's midnight," he says afterwards. We just finished watching "The Fighter" with Amy Adams, Mark Wahlberg (yummy) and Christian Bale (just as yummy, although not in this movie.) More importantly is that we went to an early dinner and then the Easter Vigil service (yes the two hour one, but Carey picked it) it was beautiful. Beginning in darkness, waiting for the light of Christ to arrive. Father Trey said something during mass, well she said a lot of things. Really he asked that we do our best to see the light of Christ in other people, to see the light of Christ when times are tough, when we are struggling, when we feel like we're in darkness. That is a hard thing for me to do, I admit it everyday. I struggle everyday and often times I feel like a hypocrite because I know how easily I become sinful. What an amazing and wonderful Lord we have that he forgives us, and asks us to go toward the light. Go towards Him, he died for us. He rose from the dead, just as he promised so that we could forever glorify Him and live eternally with Him. It just doesn't get more amazing than that.

Even though Lent is over, I downloaded this Woman's Devotion to my phone and I'll have to write about it. I'll also have to write about that Whitney who is light to my life everyday. And of course I'll write about that adorably cute, yet stubborn husband of mine, who has made so many things happen for me. Even from the smallest and sometimes seemingly insignificant decision to bigger dreams, he pushes me and he makes me better. He's a risk taker and I like that about him. He so darn cute too. I know why God sent him to me. I pray daily for him to open his heart completely to God. I know he's not vocal about his faith like I am and I have to respect that. Perhaps I married my father. My father prays a lot, I know that. He has said time and time again "I have a personal relationship with God." :) Makes me smile every time I hear him say that. I would like to hear those conversations. If anyone can makes God laugh, Harvey can. Then again I've been told, "if you want to make God laugh, make plans." HA...I do that often. I bet I crack God up just as much. If you think he doesn't have a sense of humor, think again.

Tomorrow Mom, Dad and Maw Bert (Maw Maw Roberta) will join Carey and I at the Broussard's for Easter Sunday celebratory shenanigan's. Not sure what we'll be doing exactly, but it'll be time with family and I know that I'll see Christ and His light in those people, even if they don't see it in themselves.

JESUS is RISEN today.

Hallelujah...

It's Holy Saturday....tomorrow is the big day.  The most important day in a Christians life, at least I think so.  I know I've slacked off with my writing, but I have not slacked off with actually reading and praying the devotions.  That happens no matter what.

I'm so excited about Easter and am so excited that Carey stepped up and said, he wanted to go to the Vigil service.  Regardless of the reason, he mentioned going before I could ask and that my friends, is a big step.

Jesus is RISEN!  Are there greater words, happier more loving words we could speak?  UM...no.  1 Peter 3:18  "For Christ died for sins once for all,..."  WHOO HOOO.  God's promise was fulfilled and Jesus saved us us, I mean it can't get better than that.

Taking the boys to see RIO today, that's how we'll celebrate the Lord's rising...maybe I'll share the easter story with them.

So stupid

I lost my camera last night. I can't believe I left it in a cab. I have to call a bunch of them to see if anyone turned it in. Ughggh what a pain. I cant't believe I'm such a dufus. I cried and cried, but at least I can buy a new one right. We take too much pride in possessions. Well clearly I do. :(

God is patient.

Today's reading is about Lazarus being raised from the dead after four days. Popular Jewish belief was that the soul lived for three days outside the body. Jesus arrivded a day late. Wat we've learned here is that Jesus is patient and there isn't anything that we could do that will turn Him away from us. Jesus said to Martha "Didn't I tell you that if you beleive you will see the glory of God.?"

Thank you God for finding Collin a job, and blessing Beth with a baby. Now if you could find husband for my single friends and find us a house I'll be the happiest girl in the whole wide world!

On another note, Vegas is awesome! We are having a wonderful time. Looking forward to dinner tonight at Bobby Flay's Mesa Grill. We had lunch at Todd English's Olive today and it was fabulous. I won a little bit today not much but $30. I'm not sure I even used any of my own money yet! :)

115

I've never been so happy to say I'm 115 lbs than I am right now.  I weighed myself at my Dad's and was so excited to see that little needle far from 125....that's where I was last time I weighed myself there.  I knew I had lost 7lbs, but 3 more down....5 to go.  I can't believe it.

We leave for Vegas in the morning...I can't wait.  Time for a bath.
WHOO HOO!  110lbs, here i come.

Thank God everything was ok...

Carey and I had to go on a little shopping trip today to get him some new shorts (smaller size mind you) and return some items for my mom. We were only gone a few hours, but when we arrived home we could hear sweet Pedro in the patio area, his little collar jingling as he ran around. Shocked, only to realize that I had left the patio door WIDE OPEN, while we were gone. It was such a lovely day, that I had opened it earlier while I worked on the computer at the dining room table.

"What an idiot that I left the door open." Thanks be to God that nothing happened while we were gone. Pedro is famous for "hearing" something and then running off to see what it is. We're so lucky that he was ok when we got home, in fact he probably sat outside the whole time we were done.

What a dufus, me that is.

..I wish it was Sunday, that's my fun day...

oh wait...it IS Sunday and what a gorgeous Sunday it is.  It's early.  Carey is still asleep, we had a long evening out with some good friends.  Jennifer and David Knight, joined US (not us to them) for dinner at PF Changs and then some drinks and pool at a bar that I didn't even know existed in Baton Rouge.  If that is he case, I wonder how many other "hole in the wall places" exist in this town. Perhaps that can be my new endeavor.  Find new things in Baton Rouge and write about them.  It was a fun little place with an add mix of people there.  We got home around 12:30 or 1:00 am, I can't really remember.  It was a wonderful evening.


Now I'm having a cupcake for breakfast with some coffee, Yes, I said it, A CUPCAKE. It's my weakness: dessert, I could probably skip healthy meals and go straight for it.  Never worth the caloric intake, so therefore I must work out today, since I won't work out on Wednesday (at least I don't think I will, unless I do in the morning)  and Thursday we leave for Vegas, so that's unlikely as well and I won't work out again until Monday...so this week I have to be very committed in my Mon-Wed work outs.

I'm working on GBR SHRM public relations items and preparing for a run either outside or on the treadmill before I hit the shower. What made me need to come blog, was as I was checking my email I found this email from my friend Faye.  


"God will have you sell that Condo, you’ll see and it will put you in awe of how he does things. He says in the bible that His thought are not our thoughts, neither his ways our ways, but they are higher. We have a limited understanding of how he looks out for us. Consider the lilies of the field, they don’t torn nor spin, but there is not a king with more splendor than them, consider the sparrow, they don’t plan nor serve, but they are fed by their master that watches them grow. So think of how much more he cares about the little things that concern you. "


Faye was such an inspiring friend.  Always had the right things to say, to pick me up and push me to study for my PHR.  I don't know that I would have really pursued it if it were for her and our chance meeting via LinkedIn.  God really does know what he's doing.  Still seeing that reminded me of this conversation that Jennifer and I were having last night and then a subsequent conversation with Carey regarding the sale of our condo and the Lord plans for such.  If I could only make people, and no one in particular, believe that faith can really move mountains...all would be well in the world.  At least I think so. 

Just finishing talking to/drink coffee with my girl Nicole.  Thanks N, for having coffee with me.  We've been out of the loop for a few weeks with you're grand travels.  Now spending a little time with the husband, a little devotional time with God, since I've missed the last few days.

Today, I'm told that I should let the word penetrate and dwell within me.  Unfortunately the last few days that hasn't happened.  I'm not really sure where my mind is but it hasn't been completely "here."  As we read in John of the blind man, whom Jesus made able to sit with spit and clay, we learn that there was much more to what we "see."  To see with eyes of faith, to see a God who is, what was the word, incomprehensible, we spend our entire lives living to fulfill God's plan for our lives and getting to know Him.  Thankfully, our relationships don't take that long. Although non can be as fulfilling as that relationship that we have with God.  It's so important that I continue to build on it every day.  I'm learning to do that by Thanking God for what I have and what he's given me.,; Ask for my friends an family members to be blessed in the way that they need/want; ask for what I want/need and then understanding for when God's will is done.  That is the important thing.

Every day, my faith grows stronger and I TRUST completely God's plan for me.

Dreaming again...

I attending my first HR Conference in quite a while and left feeling re-energized.  The keynote speakers were just my style, loud, energetic and moved around a lot.  I could totally have been a key note.  That is my new goal, to have people call on me one day to speak at a conference.  To write books and sell books that can get people excited about going to work (yeah it takes special people to feel this way) but I know it's possible.  I know that my feelings about my old job and my feeling about my current job can be combined to form my dream job.  I guess I haven't reached that goal yet.  That perfect job for me is out there,  I wish I could channel all the feelings into one dream, one goal.  I'm so "Radi H D" as Whitney would say, even in my professional life.  I love to be at work, I love to be busy and accomplish things at work, I also (and you won't be surprised) love to be loud and have fun at work.  I think people can be professional and not stiff, I believe that things can get accomplished with energy and creativity all the time.  One of the key note speakers mentioned that if you asked a group of professionals (which he did) if they could paint a picture, about 10 people would raise their hand.  If you ask the same question to 100 kindergarteners, every single one of them would raise their hands.  No one thinks, I can't do it or I have to ask if I can no one doubts.  What happens to us from Kindergarden until adulthood that steals away our confidence in our work and our creativity?  With the economy being as it is and jobs being hard to come by, now isn't really the time to take risks.   One day I will.  One day I'll be that jewelry store owner, who is an author and kindergarden teacher....doing all her own HR functions.  HA!  I'm tired just thinking about it.  :)  But that's me.

So while I'm at this conference Whitney calls me and very non-chalantly and calmly says "hey I'm going to the emergency room."  Well um HELLOOOOOOOO, I'm in Lafayette, so I'm freaking out and she acts like it's no big deal.  "And Call Ashley she says."  Um, ok.   Her sugar was high, she had cellulitis.  Crazy girl.  She's doing better now, the swelling went down in her legs.  Every day gets better.  She was excited to be able to sleep in her Mama's bed.  She's been wanting to do that for a while now, especially since she's been sleeping with all the lights on in her room.  Apparently there is something or a ghost of whatever living in her closet and it doesn't like light?  I don't know.

As far as the devotion goes: I left it at work.  So again I'll write about the the daily devotion that I just downloaded onto my phone (as soon as it's loaded).  That was fast.  I'm telling you, I've really enjoyed not being on Facebook.  Sometimes we need to take ourselves out of the schedules, the work, the appointments and get away.  Sometimes we need to talk with God.  I think this Lenten season I've been more focused on me.  Not selfishly, just my health, my weight, my time with Carey and my relationship with the Lord, who has been so wonderful to me.  I'm truly, truly blessed.  I know that God's plan is unfolding before my eyes, only I still think I'm not spending enough time focusing on it, b/c at the moment it's not very clear to me.  Am I looking at the right thing?  Sometimes we spend so much time searching for what we think is right, we miss what's right in front.  One thing is certain, I've said it before and I'll continue to say it, again and again - God is always there.   "Come to me all who labor and are burdened and I will give you rest."  Matthew 11:28

Bring it to Him and rest in Him.

Sharing the Plan

Before I begin with today's devotion, I'm ashamed (just a bit) to say that I've missed blogging the last few day's devotion and I'm in Lafayette at an HR Conference so I'm unable to blog what is in the black book, but my devotion on my phone today is titled "Sharing the Plan" and therefore I'll use it tonight for my devotion. I didn't really "feel" it as I normally do. It talking about relationships within the church and how to rebuild those relationships, but before we go rebuilding relationships, I guess we first have to make sure that our own individual relationships, with God and our church, before any others, are strong enough. We can't really move forward with anything, if we don't have God and don't have the kind of relationship with Him that allows us to ask for what we want/need and to completely trust that He will give it to us, if that is His will.

I just finished working out and doing push-ups so this typing is a bit of sacrifice as my arms are soar already.
I miss Carey already and I've only been away from him for about 15 hours (if you count sleeping last night next to him "away") he was asleep when I left. Hopefully tomorrow will be educational and informative, as well as fast. I dread however, the work that I will have when I return to work. :( I'll have a lot to catch up on.

Dreaming...

So I love shoes, and I need, sorry, I would like a new pair of dark brown sandals as well as some heeled sandals b/c well I love shoes.  So I see these shoes and fall in love, I'm searching online for them only to find they are more than I like to spend on a pair of shoes.  :(    Are they adorable?  Guess I'll have to watch them until they go on sale....what do you think?

3rd week of Lent...

I can't believe that it's the 3rd week of lent. Everyday is one more day that I don't have a coke. It's much more than that. It one day without Facebook, one more day that I spend time talking to God about what is really important in my life: my relationship with him and my family. Nothing else really matters. When I say family, that includes my extended family of friends. I'm truly blessed to have such a large family.

Today's devotion talked about the three practices of fasting, alms giving and prayer especially during the Lenten Season. I love the perspective they used. When I fast, I don't just lower my cholesterol, I begin to tune into hunger, to life, to death. When I give things away, I clear away the clutter in my life and begin to recognize what is essential. And when I pray? Just imagine what I might see.


Well I can tell you first hand, that the thing that I see when I pray is unbelievable. It's more amazing to look back, to see things that have happened and then to realize how much prayer time was devoted to that event, or that "happening." My time not on facebook, is time with Carey and time on the treadmill or time spent at Church with our youth ministry program, which I love being involved in. Time spent not drinking soft drinks is time spent working, or doing something else, drinking something that is better for my body or my health. When Lent is over, I'll be in the habit of saying No to that soft drink, saying No to those extra 140 calories or so. I didn't give up shopping this year as I have in previous years...I probably should have done that as well. It makes me realize that I don't need a lot of things it also means that I have so much already. Causes me to really evaluate my life. I don't do it enough.

I know I'm inconsiderate at times. I know I take things for granted, I know I have kids to worry about so my life revolves around me and Carey. I know I need to think about what I say, but I also know that I need to realize that not everyone is going to agree with what I say, and that's ok.

I've learned with this technology, all of these social media outlets, that we need to think hard about what we write. It doesn't hurt to be honest, I truly believe that. My intent is never to hurt someones feelings either with what I write or what I say and I need to think hard about that from this day forward. I recently read something that a friend wrote and the fact that no names were mentioned but I thought the writing was about me, hurt my feelings. I tried to think of all the reasons, or possible outcomes of the actions of both my friend and myself. Although I vented to my husband regarding the situation, I must admit that he is a man and clearly does not think like a woman. I vented; and at mass on Sunday I remember the pastor saying "as we ask our Lord for forgiveness of our sins, let us first forgive those who have trespassed or sinned against us." I didn't discuss the issue with my friend, it wasn't important enough, so I let it go and I'm letting God handle it for me.
I'm going to pray about it. When in doubt, pray about (it). Ok, so my rhyming skills are a bit lacking these days, but whatever.

SO what else...well the Flotta's (although we missed last year) are planning the 2nd annual Flotta/Poche family vacation....and Suzanna and I are SOOOOOOOO excited about it. I can't wait to buy Cameron some LSU clothing to wear on the trip. That shows true friendship, that a friend who is an Auburn fan (a tragedy I know), would allow their child to wear LSU clothing on more than 1 occasion. That is friendship, is it not?

I love you Erin....you are the best and I have a green leather mini and some red hoop earrings waiting for you.
You're my #1!

Venting...

Just have to vent for a moment...

1. you never know what someone is going to do until they actually do it.
2. if someone is really your friend, you should tell them how something makes you feel and not let them read about it on the internet, bc when they do, it might hurt their feelings just a little bit.
3. a person can never really know how they feel about something until it happens.

I'm just saying.

Oh Whit...Part 2

So Whit's fashion show was yesterday...she was a HOOT.  She had fun, but only wanted to walk the runway one time.  I wish I could have been in the fashion show.  Here are a few pics. Could this smile be bigger?  She was so great.  I was so proud of her.

"Bring Me What You've Got"

Happy Sunday Morning!  Today is a day of rest, for it's the Lord's day.  I haven't even finished today's devotion (and I know I didn't write yesterday), but I got the sentence above and just stopped.  It just hit me.  The power in that statement that Jesus made to the disciples before he fed the multitude.  I don't think it was ended to stop there either.


"Bring me what you've got" Jesus said. They did, He blessed it and He gave it back to them. And it was enough." 


Can we, or do we, really need to know anything else.  This statement holds true for everything.  Cast your burdens upon the Lord...how many times have we heard statements like this in our lifetimes?  Whatever is holding us back and keeping us from true happiness can be found by "bringing it' to the Lord.  Offering it up to Him in his power and He will bless it and give it back to us and it will be enough.  He will give us enough and never gives us what we can't handle, I keep reminding myself of that very thing.  That everyone's burdens or needs are different and whatever they are, God can handle them ALL just fine.  They key thing is to give it to Him.  We should think that we can handle it all on our own.

One thing I need to learn to do is pray more about decisions I need to make.  I feel like God knows my heard and nudges me in the right direction but I also know that Satan is ready to nip at our heels.  :(  

The devotion goes on to talk about the Presentation of the Gifts and how Jesus blesses those gifts and gives it back to us in Communion and it is JUST ENOUGH.  What a gift.  What a blessing that we are able to receive our Lord on Sundays.  And yes, I'm going tonight to mass with Carey, but we'll share that Eucharist together and it will be enough.  I still don't think I'm where I need to be spiritually but I know, this Lenten season, more than anything.  I'm spending more time with my God, even if it's "electronically" it's still time with Him.

On another note, Nicole is headed home today from the Holy Land, she offered up my prayers to sell this condo at Jesus tomb.  When she told me that, it made me cry, just as it does now, thinking about it.  I was just so moved that it touched my core and I felt the Lord truly present and hearing that prayer.  What further excites me about that, is the fact that one day I'll have a house and baby.  Unfortunately, I want a bigger house right now, more than a baby...I don't want to be selfish, but I want to make sure I'm ready to make that kind of commitment. I know the Lord is understanding what I'm feeling, perhaps He will think I'm ready long before I do.  I don't think there is a return policy on a child. At least I know how instantly I've fallen in love with Aidan, Alec and Davis, just to name a few.  I can only begin to fathom how much I will love my won child, who will hopefully get his/her eyes from their dad and his brains too, and his (singing) voice, his decisiveness, and height.  I do not wish for my child to be as stubborn as his or her father and I'd like them to have my hair, my gregariousness, his sense of humor, my energy, my faith.  Ok enough already...I know I'll be a great mother one day, I hope I can be as good as my mom was/is!  She is a great role model and I can't say thank you enough for what she has taught me.

It is perfect, because the one think she's has always said to me, Good or Bad, is ask God for help because without Him we can't do anything and with Him we can do everything.
Thanks Mom.

Oh Whit...

I was blessed to have met Carey and have a sister-in-law named Whitney Rae.  Special takes on a whole new meaning for this girl.  She is going to be in the Make A Wish Foundation's fashion show this weekend and this is her practicing.

I need to start a blog just for her alone, writing things she says or does that are so innocent and priceless.  I know my friends have been blessed by her as well.

I just love it.

"We are glad we are here."

Peter said it.  He didn't necessarily mean that he was glad to be on the Mountain with the Lord, although I'm sure he was.  It is said that he was glad to be where he is in his life.  Are we?

It sometimes depends on what is going in my life on whether or not I'm glad to be here.  Today was a long day at work, went to work early, left late, volleyball practice after work, I've spent about 15 minutes of "quality" time with my husband and that basically means we've been in the same room.  Today I wished I worked back at LSU, other days, I enjoy where I am.  Again, it just depends.  At this moment, I'm glad to be here.  Glad to be home with my dog and my husband (not necessarily in that order).  Anxious to take a hot bath and relax, have a conversation with God, which I know it sounds strange but I often do.  It's one of the few moments I have alone and quiet.

Spiritually, I like where I am.  I'm glad to be here and I'm even more excited as to where I'm going.  My faith journey continues everyday, if I were only stronger willed in certain areas of my life.  I know it comes with work.  I do know that I'm most trusting in God's plan than I ever have been.  I've watched wonderful things I've prayed for happen, and I know it's because of God's love for us.

I continually pray that Collin finds a job.  I prayed so much for Kasie and Jessica to conceive, as well as Beth, Jen and the other girlfriends of mine who are either thinking about it, trying, already pregnant or otherwise.  I pray for those who are homeless and unemployed.  I just can't tell you enough how much I pray for God's will to be done in my life.  I pray that Ashley, Nicole, Heather, Jill, Erica and my other non-married friends to meet their "Carey."  I love my husband so much, I wish the same kind of love for them...all truly wonderful girls!  I know it'll happen.  God does too.

So my question for you is:  "Are you glad to be here?"

What is Lent?

Many people ask why "give up" something for 40 days and aren't equally as concerned about the meaning behind the fast, as they are about just knowing what a person has decided to "give up."  More now than ever I do both the "giving up" of something as well as, doing something extra, to bring me closer to God, to help my relationship stronger.  I have to admit that I'm desperately wanting/craving a coke or diet pepsi or fanta or some caffeinated/carbonated beverage.  I know at some point this craving will go away and when Easter arrives, I will thank God for the extra 5 lbs I've lost and realize that those sugary beverages don't taste nearly as good as they used to.  :)

Today's devotion pointed out how Lent is the time for us to sink deep within the Spirit so that I can see myself, others and God as they truly are.  See it all in a light so pure that it can only be Godly light.  What an awesome and powerful idea that is.  Can we as human beings really see only the good in people?  I try.  I know I disappoint God when I use fowl language or ugly words (especially in the car, behind the wheel :(  it's one of my negative traits).   It's never too late to start "doing more" for God and I will make an extra effort to speak only Godly words and think happy thoughts this Lent, and hope that it will carry on through to the rest of my days.

Tonight, we take Mother-in-Law to dinner for her birthday, I'm excited to see her.  What a wonderful blessing in my life she has been.  Happy Birthday Mother-In-Law.

What is Lent?

Many people ask why "give up" something for 40 days and aren't equally as concerned about the meaning behind the fast as they are about just knowing what a person has decide to give up.  More now than ever I do both the "giving up" of something as well as doing something extra to bring me closer to God, to help my relationship stronger.  I have to admit that I'm desperately wanting/craving a coke or diet pepsi or fanta or some caffeinated/carbonated beverage.  I know at some point this craving will go away and when Easter arrives, I will thank God for the extra 5 lbs I've lost and realize that they don't taste nearly as good as they used to.  :)

Today's devotion pointed out how Lent is the time for us to sink deep within the Spirit so that I can see myself, others and God as they truly are.  See it all in a light so pure that it can only be Godly light.  What an awesome and powerful idea that is.  Can we as human beings really see only the good in people?  I try.  I know I disappoint God when I use fowl language or ugly words (especially in the car, behind the wheel :(  it's one of my negative traits).   It's never too late to start "doing more" for God and I will make an extra effort to speak only Godly words and think happy thoughts this Lent, and hope that it will carry on through to the rest of my days.

Tonight, we take Mother-in-Law to dinner for her birthday, I'm excited to see her.  What a wonderful blessing in my life she has been.  Happy Birthday Mother-In-Law.