I have been pondering so much lately. Trying to remember what it was like to sit under a blanket on a crisp day reading our beloved school books. Having breakfast together and doing our Bible time. Working our math problems until both of our heads hurt. It seems like a lifetime ago that we were sitting exactly where I am right now doing all of these things and more. Fast forward to today. We are spending much of our days just like then but now we are preparing monthly newsletters. We are updating a website, picking out costumes, making phone calls to book a theater for our Spring Showcase. I am so humbled...and so amazed by our Lord. I am thankful and that my days are filled with wonder as I watch my daughter teach her classes. I am even more in awe that out of our humblest beginnings of Homeschooling that I am watching and experiencing the fruits of our labor.
I haven't been blogging, obviously for so long. I haven't really known what to say. We have been so busy some days we are so tired when our heads hit the pillow that we have to sleep hard and fast as there is still so much to do. But it is more than that. In the last months we have faced so much...from...well... hatred and jealousy and envy to well wishes by people who have decided to stand beside my daughter and trust her with their children. I appreciate these people so very much. I sit at the reception desk daily and listen to my daughter teach her students and wonder...how did she learn all this. Then she reminds me that she learned to teach from me. ME? Wasn't I the one who was constantly doubting if I was doing right by her. Wasn't I the one who wondered if I was giving her enough? Finding the right books to broaden her horizons? Seeking God daily to find His wisdom? That was me...somewhere along the path I stopped doubting my own self and began to put aside my fears and began to really seek Him in finding exactly what she needed for her future.
I have been letting these thought simmer in my brain and in my heart for a while now. As times are changing and more and more people are beginning to homeschool. I don't want to hide my light under a bushel. I want to let my light shine. I want to encourage and teach and show just how successful a homeschool can be.
I haven't been blogging because sometimes I feel like it is too much about me. I am not self indulgent...but I desire with my heart to be of service to the Lord. To encourage and help calm the fears of homeschoolers who are tired and weary. Who may think that they just can't sit at the table with their child who is crying over math problems just one more day. I've been there. I have experienced it all and what a waste it would be for me to forget about it and not to share.
So, I am going to rework my little blog a bit. There is more to come...
There is strength in Him,
Joyce Marie
Thursday, September 22, 2011
Friday, June 24, 2011
June 1st til now...
As I have written in an earlier post June 1st was our daughter's opening day. We were lucky to be able to go in the studio two days ahead and begin the work of clearing out and cleaning up. It was so cool to walk in there the first day and realize it was really hers. We had two whole days before her opening. We cleaned and scrubbed on day one. Day two, while Dennis did some carpentry work that was much needed, my mom, Brittany and I bought our paint and got started early. In one day we painted a fairly large foyer, a hallway and our lobby. We kicked it in and were able to finish the second coat late into the night. Back first thing the next morning for any touch ups and then began to paint the trim a charcoal color. Back home to bake a couple of batches of cookies and make some lemonade for her first Performance Team meeting. It was neat to see the faces of the people as they walked in the studio. Our goal was to cover all of this yucky, pumpkin and yellow paint that was in these areas. We accomplished it. She had her meeting, even made a power point presentation using her dad's projector. We felt it went well...and it did because every child there plus two more are all in her summer classes and are on the first official Dance Out Loud! performance team.
We are so excited! I can't even tell you. At this point we still had a week and a half before her summer classes began so we pretty much lived at that studio with a paint brush in one hand and a paint roller in the other for the major part of that two weeks. We returned home well into the early morning hours and slept for a couple of hours and were right back at it. We were able to paint the two dance studios, which was a really huge job...as both rooms needed three, yes 3 coats of paint. Her studio colors are black,white, pink and turquoise. So...our walls are gray (a medium between black and white). The large studio has and accent of pink around the mirrored wall...the small studio has the turquoise accent. All in all...we were able to complete it, clean the carpets. Put her reception desk together, buy new chairs, add a few welcoming details and were up and running by her first day of class.
She has just finished her second week of summer dance classes. So far so good...she has happy dancers who are working hard. They now have a dress code and they look so cute coming into dance. The parents seem pleased as we given the place that was in serious decline a welcoming feel. So far, we have happy, smiling faces as people enter.
God is so amazing. This was such a huge leap of faith...we have seen Him in so many places throughout this whole experience. We just keep reminding ourselves that He will supply just what she needs.
So that's about it. I am adjusting to actually working...I am working at her reception desk...we are creating policies, planning for the fall, picking music and costumes for next years showcase already. In the meantime as I adjust I am trying to keep my house looking like a home...which isn't going so well, keep my laundry up and cook at home as much as possible. It's a challenge on any day anyway...especially now. But you know what? I wouldn't have it any other way. I am sitting there behind that desk every night listening to my daughter teach children how to dance. I am watching her dream unfold right before my very eyes and we get to be a part of it. I have to say...It's pretty amazing!
So, I'll leave you with one more look at her website and her renovations you can visit her newly updated website...Dance Out Loud!
Wishing you a wonderful weekend,
Joyce Marie
We are so excited! I can't even tell you. At this point we still had a week and a half before her summer classes began so we pretty much lived at that studio with a paint brush in one hand and a paint roller in the other for the major part of that two weeks. We returned home well into the early morning hours and slept for a couple of hours and were right back at it. We were able to paint the two dance studios, which was a really huge job...as both rooms needed three, yes 3 coats of paint. Her studio colors are black,white, pink and turquoise. So...our walls are gray (a medium between black and white). The large studio has and accent of pink around the mirrored wall...the small studio has the turquoise accent. All in all...we were able to complete it, clean the carpets. Put her reception desk together, buy new chairs, add a few welcoming details and were up and running by her first day of class.
She has just finished her second week of summer dance classes. So far so good...she has happy dancers who are working hard. They now have a dress code and they look so cute coming into dance. The parents seem pleased as we given the place that was in serious decline a welcoming feel. So far, we have happy, smiling faces as people enter.
God is so amazing. This was such a huge leap of faith...we have seen Him in so many places throughout this whole experience. We just keep reminding ourselves that He will supply just what she needs.
So that's about it. I am adjusting to actually working...I am working at her reception desk...we are creating policies, planning for the fall, picking music and costumes for next years showcase already. In the meantime as I adjust I am trying to keep my house looking like a home...which isn't going so well, keep my laundry up and cook at home as much as possible. It's a challenge on any day anyway...especially now. But you know what? I wouldn't have it any other way. I am sitting there behind that desk every night listening to my daughter teach children how to dance. I am watching her dream unfold right before my very eyes and we get to be a part of it. I have to say...It's pretty amazing!
So, I'll leave you with one more look at her website and her renovations you can visit her newly updated website...Dance Out Loud!
Wishing you a wonderful weekend,
Joyce Marie
Thursday, June 2, 2011
It's Official!!!
It has been a crazy week. We all got through the last few days of dress rehearsal and recital...with little incident. There was a bit of drama after the second show...it's still really unfortunate that this one particular teacher had so much negative influence over so many kids. There were some tearful goodbyes...but now we are looking ahead.
06-01-11 will forever be a special day as our daughter is officially open for business. We rested all day Sunday...but went over to the studio to clean on Monday...Tuesday, Brittany, my mom and I painted A LOT of space....a foyer, a waiting room and two hallways. Brittany's studio colors are black, white, turquoise and raspberry pink! She chose a really pretty, soothing gray for the walls we painted on Tuesday. The two dance studios will be a lighter shade...a more silvery shade. Around the mirrors in the large studio we will put the pink...in the smaller studio, around the mirrors we will paint the turquoise...I think the kids are going to like it because it will be cheerful and fun. We still have to paint the dressing room and bathroom too. She has found silhouette stickers of ballerinas that are almost life size that she will place in the actual dance studios. I think they are going to look so neat.
Yesterday I began painting the woodwork...we are painting it black...it looks so sharp against that gray! Then we had to rush home and bake cookies and make lemonade, clean up and head back over there as on her opening day she had her first official meeting for her performance team. She made a presentation on power point and used her dad's projector that he uses for teaching his classes. She was very organized and had a good turn out. She currently has 4 teens interested in competing...about 5 intermediate kids (ages 10-12)and on younger girl. We are thankful for each and every one of them. She has been getting calls just about everyday about her summer classes which start on the 13th.
From this moment on...there is no looking back...we are following the Lord's lead...knowing that he will supply all of her needs. It's exciting to be a part of all of this...as a mommy...I couldn't be more thrilled.
Check out her website...at...www.danceoutlouddc.com
She is also on facebook...Dance Out Loud Dc
She created her own logo and web pages...we recieved the official paper work from our state yesterday...she can run her business under her studio name. Which is...Dance Out Loud! Dance Centre.
Our agenda for today...more painting, my husband is going to hang her speakers in her large studio and she can open her business checking account today too.
Wishing you a day full of blessings!
Joyce Marie
06-01-11 will forever be a special day as our daughter is officially open for business. We rested all day Sunday...but went over to the studio to clean on Monday...Tuesday, Brittany, my mom and I painted A LOT of space....a foyer, a waiting room and two hallways. Brittany's studio colors are black, white, turquoise and raspberry pink! She chose a really pretty, soothing gray for the walls we painted on Tuesday. The two dance studios will be a lighter shade...a more silvery shade. Around the mirrors in the large studio we will put the pink...in the smaller studio, around the mirrors we will paint the turquoise...I think the kids are going to like it because it will be cheerful and fun. We still have to paint the dressing room and bathroom too. She has found silhouette stickers of ballerinas that are almost life size that she will place in the actual dance studios. I think they are going to look so neat.
Yesterday I began painting the woodwork...we are painting it black...it looks so sharp against that gray! Then we had to rush home and bake cookies and make lemonade, clean up and head back over there as on her opening day she had her first official meeting for her performance team. She made a presentation on power point and used her dad's projector that he uses for teaching his classes. She was very organized and had a good turn out. She currently has 4 teens interested in competing...about 5 intermediate kids (ages 10-12)and on younger girl. We are thankful for each and every one of them. She has been getting calls just about everyday about her summer classes which start on the 13th.
From this moment on...there is no looking back...we are following the Lord's lead...knowing that he will supply all of her needs. It's exciting to be a part of all of this...as a mommy...I couldn't be more thrilled.
Check out her website...at...www.danceoutlouddc.com
She is also on facebook...Dance Out Loud Dc
She created her own logo and web pages...we recieved the official paper work from our state yesterday...she can run her business under her studio name. Which is...Dance Out Loud! Dance Centre.
Our agenda for today...more painting, my husband is going to hang her speakers in her large studio and she can open her business checking account today too.
Wishing you a day full of blessings!
Joyce Marie
Tuesday, May 24, 2011
more about those God crumbs...
Brittany choreographed the opening number to the dance recital this year. This past Friday...the kids were all to come with their costume in hand to try them on. We received a bag of headbands and hats that were to be worn as accessories...the costumes are all black...the accessories both silver and gold. Once we saw them...we just knew that they weren't going to do so we took off to the store and bought everything silver and gold that we could find and spent the next day with the hot glue gun adding sparkle and design. We were so excited about our head pieces. They added flair and drama...despite the fact that some of them were leaves. The main goal was to add enough "bling" to them so that they could be seen from stage.
Well, confrontation is where it ended up...with one parent taking it upon herself to speak for all the parents...my daughter about the accessories...told her they looked like they were purchased in a garage sale. Well, excuse me...as we added $30 of our own money to our little project...I assure you we didn't buy them in a garage sale. Anyway...this was done in front of students and parents and there were younger girls crying and things were quite a mess. My daughter called me a short time later a bit shaken...but she held her ground as this woman decided that final night of dance was the perfect time to unload on my daughter.
Brittany held it together, spoke calmly, told this woman that she would have to do what was best for her own family and we now have our fingers crossed that she will just...well...move on. All this over a $10 headpiece that we tried to improve...if it weren't for us...she would have gotten a simple gold headband worth a whopping .75.
The God crumb came the next afternoon from a parent of one of the girls...her daughter had come home upset too. This beautiful lady told Brittany that she had begun praying for the whole situation...this coming week which we are currently in...for the transition next week. It was like receiving a tall, cool glass of water, she was speaking our language. More God crumbs came on Sunday...as Brittany has also choreographed the Finale for the show...the other parents that were present Friday night...were making it a priority to apologize on the behalf of the other parent...and wanted her to know that she was not speaking for them.
In the long run...my daughter has been through so much this past month...only a month. The news went out May 1st. But don't underestimate the strength of an 18 and a half year old with a dream. She has had integrity, understanding and strength. She is not cowering or living in fear. She continues to look people in the eye when they talk to her. She had a grandma walk along side her on Sunday afternoon and hold her hand...told her they were so excited for her studio...this grandma said that her granddaughter hadn't enjoyed her classes this year and they were going to go elsewhere...but with Miss Brittany...they had decided to stay. I guess these are more of the God crumbs I have been talking about...they are everywhere just when we need them.
Blessings!
Joyce Marie
Well, confrontation is where it ended up...with one parent taking it upon herself to speak for all the parents...my daughter about the accessories...told her they looked like they were purchased in a garage sale. Well, excuse me...as we added $30 of our own money to our little project...I assure you we didn't buy them in a garage sale. Anyway...this was done in front of students and parents and there were younger girls crying and things were quite a mess. My daughter called me a short time later a bit shaken...but she held her ground as this woman decided that final night of dance was the perfect time to unload on my daughter.
Brittany held it together, spoke calmly, told this woman that she would have to do what was best for her own family and we now have our fingers crossed that she will just...well...move on. All this over a $10 headpiece that we tried to improve...if it weren't for us...she would have gotten a simple gold headband worth a whopping .75.
The God crumb came the next afternoon from a parent of one of the girls...her daughter had come home upset too. This beautiful lady told Brittany that she had begun praying for the whole situation...this coming week which we are currently in...for the transition next week. It was like receiving a tall, cool glass of water, she was speaking our language. More God crumbs came on Sunday...as Brittany has also choreographed the Finale for the show...the other parents that were present Friday night...were making it a priority to apologize on the behalf of the other parent...and wanted her to know that she was not speaking for them.
In the long run...my daughter has been through so much this past month...only a month. The news went out May 1st. But don't underestimate the strength of an 18 and a half year old with a dream. She has had integrity, understanding and strength. She is not cowering or living in fear. She continues to look people in the eye when they talk to her. She had a grandma walk along side her on Sunday afternoon and hold her hand...told her they were so excited for her studio...this grandma said that her granddaughter hadn't enjoyed her classes this year and they were going to go elsewhere...but with Miss Brittany...they had decided to stay. I guess these are more of the God crumbs I have been talking about...they are everywhere just when we need them.
Blessings!
Joyce Marie
Saturday, May 21, 2011
God crumbs...
We are just a breath away from our daughter's big day...June 1st. While in our home and amongst our family and friends the anticipation is exciting. At the dance studio, however...well, lets just say it is in utter chaos.
This whole situation has sure brought out the devil in A LOT of people. While we are excited and planning and trying to stay positive...there have been people who have been working in the background trying deliberately to take our girl down. I have never seen anything like it. The things that my young daughter has had to face these last weeks at some points made us all question whether we should have passed on the offer. But don't get me wrong...the fire is still there...it is just difficult people.
As soon as the announcement was made to the other teachers...by the current owner...Brittany was immediately shunned. She was blocked on Facebook, and the rumors were flying...the announcement was made just before spring break...May 1st...the announcement went public through two letters...one from the current owner, the second from Brittany. The current owner, being distracted from just giving birth to her third baby wasn't very clear in her letter...Brittany's letter was very clear. This really set things on fire. People thought that Brittany's letter was from Miss Jessa so they read it first...which they didn't understand because the owner wrote her letter in a little snippet in her studio newsletter. The plan was that Brittany would go in and hang and and mingle on the days that she didn't teach so that those who don't know her could talk to her and such. Making it through that first week was really tough...a second teacher balled her out after Brittany pleasantly greeted her. This girl was so bold she actually had the nerve to tell my daughter to never talk to her again unless it was an emergency. Our daughter began to feel like she was a villain. The next week...I couldn't let her go in there by herself...so...I went along. Just for moral support if anything. I have never felt such tension in my life...we walked in the door...immediately Brittany was surrounded by some of 7-9 year old kids...they were so excited to see her...they were all fighting to give her a hug and we could barely get in the door...the parents however wouldn't even make eye contact...by the time we entered the waiting area...the parents had calmed their kids...and the kids stayed away from her...would smile at her from a distance for the next hour. Obviously they were told to keep their distance...we lasted nearly a whole hour and I told Brittany...this is pointless...so we said our goodbyes...as no one could look us in the eye and we left. Brittany was beginning to feel deflated...and as a mom...my heart was breaking. So...the next night, we had a meeting with a parent at a Panera...she is going to be in charge of fundraising...so we talked...it was uplifting...and she is a Godly woman...and this is when we began to see the first of many God crumbs...what's a God crumb? We began to feel encouraged through different people...and these people were like crumbs along the way encouraging us...we were so thankful that they were actually kind. We began to recognize them and give the glory to our God...so they are now called God crumbs...those little things that happen along the way to keep you on your path...I know I'm rambling here but bear with me...
I went in with her the following Friday...as a mom just hanging out (secretly I was thinking if she needs protection, I'm her girl). Sitting in the waiting room I was given the chance to hear what was going on in the minds of the people. Of course, no one knew who I was...it was hard to hear...most of it was just utter confusion...this dance studio hasn't been cared for in a year...people are tired of not having their questions answered...the current director hasn't been present and people are angry...and questioning why she chose Brittany and not one teacher in particular...(the one that was working behind the scenes to cause the students in her classes to leave). I moved into another part of the waiting area because I couldn't take it and I was about to introduce myself and make my intentions very clear...so I just removed myself from the area all together...another mom...probably could read my face...came in and sat across from me. This is one of the mom's that couldn't look my daughter in the eye three days before that...we had a nice chat...another one of those God crumbs. I finished talking to her, she left and then I did...when I walked out to the parking lot.
My heart felt so burdened. Why is it that when something really good happens to someone...we can't just be happy for them in this society...why is there this need to put others down...why is it OK for someone to live out their dream, choose their college...do what they want to do? I've been through this before with my in-laws...I just don't understand it?
At that moment in the parking lot as I was waiting for my husband to pick me up...I bowed my head and prayed and I will tell you...I thought about how our God must have felt the day that they beat His Son...the day the spit on Him...the day they cursed Him. I think I felt closer to our Lord right there in the parking lot than I ever have. God knew that His Son had to endure all of it for His good...I realize that this is on such a small scale...but when your child is persecuted for having a dream...it feels much the same...after all...isn't this America? Where we have the freedom to explore our dreams?
Anyway...my sweetheart picked me up and we just drove...he let me talk, I told him about my prayer and what had hit me there...and God is so amazing when we ask for wisdom...isn't he? We both just knew what had to be done. We spent the rest of the weekend working on a document to set the record straight...after all how does the saying go? The truth will set you free?
We found out from a good source what the rumors were...so we addressed them each one by one while we gave Brittany's background.
Here are just a few...
That I was going to run the dance studio...yes me, her mother, who has never taken a dance lesson in all her life.
That she fired all the other teachers...uh, hello, they never worked for her in the first place.
She doesn't have any experience...we proved them wrong.
What about education?...this part was fun! Fellow homeschoolers...God will give you exactly what you need to educate your child...he will help you nurture their skills. Don't doubt it for a second.
She is going to combine ages 2-7 and teach them together...I'm sorry, it doesn't take any of us long to realize that this wouldn't work...really?
She is only going to teach young children...well, if that happens it is because this other teacher has encouraged all of the older kids and their parents to leave.
The entire document was 4 pages. We printed it on turquoise paper, we stapled them together, titled it with Dance Out Loud's! FAQ and placed them on the end tables throughout the waiting area. That evening, as I worked the desk to sell recital tickets I could see those beautiful blue pages of truth in the hands of people...it took them a while to get through it...one grandmother even chuckled at some of the things being said. I guess that saying about the truth will set you free does really work because this one particular teacher that was being really nasty? She quit that very night. Since then, things have calmed down. Brittany has made herself available to talk to anyone...she has received calls and emails which she has been able to return in a timely matter. People are still upset for the way the studio is currently run...but we are beginning to see whole cookies and not just crumbs now...we have a few signed up for summer classes. WE have no idea what the future entails...but do any of us. This is such a faith walk...we are just trusting that our Lord who brought her this far will not drop her.
Thanks for listening...I'm posting this as a memory...it's nearly behind us now and better things are ahead.
Wishing you a beautiful day,
Joyce Marie
This whole situation has sure brought out the devil in A LOT of people. While we are excited and planning and trying to stay positive...there have been people who have been working in the background trying deliberately to take our girl down. I have never seen anything like it. The things that my young daughter has had to face these last weeks at some points made us all question whether we should have passed on the offer. But don't get me wrong...the fire is still there...it is just difficult people.
As soon as the announcement was made to the other teachers...by the current owner...Brittany was immediately shunned. She was blocked on Facebook, and the rumors were flying...the announcement was made just before spring break...May 1st...the announcement went public through two letters...one from the current owner, the second from Brittany. The current owner, being distracted from just giving birth to her third baby wasn't very clear in her letter...Brittany's letter was very clear. This really set things on fire. People thought that Brittany's letter was from Miss Jessa so they read it first...which they didn't understand because the owner wrote her letter in a little snippet in her studio newsletter. The plan was that Brittany would go in and hang and and mingle on the days that she didn't teach so that those who don't know her could talk to her and such. Making it through that first week was really tough...a second teacher balled her out after Brittany pleasantly greeted her. This girl was so bold she actually had the nerve to tell my daughter to never talk to her again unless it was an emergency. Our daughter began to feel like she was a villain. The next week...I couldn't let her go in there by herself...so...I went along. Just for moral support if anything. I have never felt such tension in my life...we walked in the door...immediately Brittany was surrounded by some of 7-9 year old kids...they were so excited to see her...they were all fighting to give her a hug and we could barely get in the door...the parents however wouldn't even make eye contact...by the time we entered the waiting area...the parents had calmed their kids...and the kids stayed away from her...would smile at her from a distance for the next hour. Obviously they were told to keep their distance...we lasted nearly a whole hour and I told Brittany...this is pointless...so we said our goodbyes...as no one could look us in the eye and we left. Brittany was beginning to feel deflated...and as a mom...my heart was breaking. So...the next night, we had a meeting with a parent at a Panera...she is going to be in charge of fundraising...so we talked...it was uplifting...and she is a Godly woman...and this is when we began to see the first of many God crumbs...what's a God crumb? We began to feel encouraged through different people...and these people were like crumbs along the way encouraging us...we were so thankful that they were actually kind. We began to recognize them and give the glory to our God...so they are now called God crumbs...those little things that happen along the way to keep you on your path...I know I'm rambling here but bear with me...
I went in with her the following Friday...as a mom just hanging out (secretly I was thinking if she needs protection, I'm her girl). Sitting in the waiting room I was given the chance to hear what was going on in the minds of the people. Of course, no one knew who I was...it was hard to hear...most of it was just utter confusion...this dance studio hasn't been cared for in a year...people are tired of not having their questions answered...the current director hasn't been present and people are angry...and questioning why she chose Brittany and not one teacher in particular...(the one that was working behind the scenes to cause the students in her classes to leave). I moved into another part of the waiting area because I couldn't take it and I was about to introduce myself and make my intentions very clear...so I just removed myself from the area all together...another mom...probably could read my face...came in and sat across from me. This is one of the mom's that couldn't look my daughter in the eye three days before that...we had a nice chat...another one of those God crumbs. I finished talking to her, she left and then I did...when I walked out to the parking lot.
My heart felt so burdened. Why is it that when something really good happens to someone...we can't just be happy for them in this society...why is there this need to put others down...why is it OK for someone to live out their dream, choose their college...do what they want to do? I've been through this before with my in-laws...I just don't understand it?
At that moment in the parking lot as I was waiting for my husband to pick me up...I bowed my head and prayed and I will tell you...I thought about how our God must have felt the day that they beat His Son...the day the spit on Him...the day they cursed Him. I think I felt closer to our Lord right there in the parking lot than I ever have. God knew that His Son had to endure all of it for His good...I realize that this is on such a small scale...but when your child is persecuted for having a dream...it feels much the same...after all...isn't this America? Where we have the freedom to explore our dreams?
Anyway...my sweetheart picked me up and we just drove...he let me talk, I told him about my prayer and what had hit me there...and God is so amazing when we ask for wisdom...isn't he? We both just knew what had to be done. We spent the rest of the weekend working on a document to set the record straight...after all how does the saying go? The truth will set you free?
We found out from a good source what the rumors were...so we addressed them each one by one while we gave Brittany's background.
Here are just a few...
That I was going to run the dance studio...yes me, her mother, who has never taken a dance lesson in all her life.
That she fired all the other teachers...uh, hello, they never worked for her in the first place.
She doesn't have any experience...we proved them wrong.
What about education?...this part was fun! Fellow homeschoolers...God will give you exactly what you need to educate your child...he will help you nurture their skills. Don't doubt it for a second.
She is going to combine ages 2-7 and teach them together...I'm sorry, it doesn't take any of us long to realize that this wouldn't work...really?
She is only going to teach young children...well, if that happens it is because this other teacher has encouraged all of the older kids and their parents to leave.
The entire document was 4 pages. We printed it on turquoise paper, we stapled them together, titled it with Dance Out Loud's! FAQ and placed them on the end tables throughout the waiting area. That evening, as I worked the desk to sell recital tickets I could see those beautiful blue pages of truth in the hands of people...it took them a while to get through it...one grandmother even chuckled at some of the things being said. I guess that saying about the truth will set you free does really work because this one particular teacher that was being really nasty? She quit that very night. Since then, things have calmed down. Brittany has made herself available to talk to anyone...she has received calls and emails which she has been able to return in a timely matter. People are still upset for the way the studio is currently run...but we are beginning to see whole cookies and not just crumbs now...we have a few signed up for summer classes. WE have no idea what the future entails...but do any of us. This is such a faith walk...we are just trusting that our Lord who brought her this far will not drop her.
Thanks for listening...I'm posting this as a memory...it's nearly behind us now and better things are ahead.
Wishing you a beautiful day,
Joyce Marie
Wednesday, May 11, 2011
Happy Spring!
I am happy to say that just this week spring has finally arrived in my neck of the woods...we have had cold weather, rain, more cold weather...dark dismal days when all we wanted was a bit of sunshine. It seems as though we have turned a corner because I am sitting here with my window open, a cool breeze is filling my room with fresh air. The birds are singing, the squirrels are running along my fence and my bleeding heart is in full bloom.
I guess I should back up a bit...life has been so busy and crazy and good and at least a dozen different adjectives. When I last posted Dennis and I were about to go away for a much deserved anniversary retreat. We had a wonderful time, the cabin was gorgeous but we were both under the weather a bit and drugged up on sinus medicine. We still enjoyed every minute of our time together and were able to take a long drive through the country which we both loved. We needed to unwind a little and we were able to do that.
When we came home...Brittany was all smiles as we walked through the door. She took us upstairs and had us close our eyes. While we were away our daughter painted our bedroom for us...rearranged our furniture and bought us some new bedding. We walked into our "new" room in wonder that she was able to pull it off in such a short time. The color is a very pale blue (like sea glass)...so peaceful, very neutral and I love being in there now. It is a very welcome retreat. What a lovely gift she gave us...:)
She also had a bit of news for us. While we were away...her boss, the studio owner where she teaches approached our girl and told her that she would be selling her dance studio due to the fact that she was expecting her third baby...she wanted to give our Brittany an opportunity to buy the business she felt that she would carry on her business with the same philosophy that she had. She told Brittany not to worry that she was young...that she knew that Brittany could do it. While we were beginning to wonder if changes were going to be made this year we had no idea that this was about to happen.
It was hard for us to hold our excitement in...many different emotions ranging from fear to wanting to yell it from the roof tops went through us those next few days. Who knew that something good could send you into a tailspin. We have prayed about it...had a formal meeting with her boss...talked about it as a family and all together decided that this was an opportunity that our daughter could not pass up. She is now under contract and as of June 1st will be a small business owner. It has been a thrilling ride...but also a bumpy one. I have seen my daughter act more of an adult these days than women who are older than her.
I have much to say...because I want to document it here but more than can be said in just one entry. I took myself offline because while the offer was out there...we had to keep things quiet and if I have learned anything about life...I have learned that this is a small world. So...I am back to blogging...while I am not going to have much personal time in the coming days...as I am going to be helping her in her new venture.
As a mommy...I am thrilled...as a homeschool family, I have been able to sit back and watch my daughter as she makes plans, policies and all that goes into starting a new business. I am in awe that the direction that God took us in our schooling is now being utilized 100%. God has been so good to her and she is going to be able to serve him through teaching children to dance. How AMAZING is our God!
Many blessings,
Joyce Marie
I guess I should back up a bit...life has been so busy and crazy and good and at least a dozen different adjectives. When I last posted Dennis and I were about to go away for a much deserved anniversary retreat. We had a wonderful time, the cabin was gorgeous but we were both under the weather a bit and drugged up on sinus medicine. We still enjoyed every minute of our time together and were able to take a long drive through the country which we both loved. We needed to unwind a little and we were able to do that.
When we came home...Brittany was all smiles as we walked through the door. She took us upstairs and had us close our eyes. While we were away our daughter painted our bedroom for us...rearranged our furniture and bought us some new bedding. We walked into our "new" room in wonder that she was able to pull it off in such a short time. The color is a very pale blue (like sea glass)...so peaceful, very neutral and I love being in there now. It is a very welcome retreat. What a lovely gift she gave us...:)
She also had a bit of news for us. While we were away...her boss, the studio owner where she teaches approached our girl and told her that she would be selling her dance studio due to the fact that she was expecting her third baby...she wanted to give our Brittany an opportunity to buy the business she felt that she would carry on her business with the same philosophy that she had. She told Brittany not to worry that she was young...that she knew that Brittany could do it. While we were beginning to wonder if changes were going to be made this year we had no idea that this was about to happen.
It was hard for us to hold our excitement in...many different emotions ranging from fear to wanting to yell it from the roof tops went through us those next few days. Who knew that something good could send you into a tailspin. We have prayed about it...had a formal meeting with her boss...talked about it as a family and all together decided that this was an opportunity that our daughter could not pass up. She is now under contract and as of June 1st will be a small business owner. It has been a thrilling ride...but also a bumpy one. I have seen my daughter act more of an adult these days than women who are older than her.
I have much to say...because I want to document it here but more than can be said in just one entry. I took myself offline because while the offer was out there...we had to keep things quiet and if I have learned anything about life...I have learned that this is a small world. So...I am back to blogging...while I am not going to have much personal time in the coming days...as I am going to be helping her in her new venture.
As a mommy...I am thrilled...as a homeschool family, I have been able to sit back and watch my daughter as she makes plans, policies and all that goes into starting a new business. I am in awe that the direction that God took us in our schooling is now being utilized 100%. God has been so good to her and she is going to be able to serve him through teaching children to dance. How AMAZING is our God!
Many blessings,
Joyce Marie
Friday, March 18, 2011
I must have done something right...
Well, I survived my daughter driving solo for the first time. I have to admit I did pretty darn well. I watched her from the front door as she pulled out of the driveway. Her first solo trip was to Walmart...and she brought me home a dozen of these beauties! They are bright pink and they are lovely...and I love the fact that she knew I was probably nervous and she just wanted me to know that she is going to be ok.
Yesterday...she drove to the mall with a friend. It was easier the second time around. The biggie is today as she'll drive to her job for the first time alone. I know she'll do well. The top speed on that trip is only 30 miles per hour...so I feel pretty good. It's a longer trip...but she'll do just great. I have to keep reminding myself that I don't have to leave here soon and drop her off. It's weird...but one of those necessary transitions in life.
Most of you are probably thinking "enough already!". I can't help it...these are big times in the life of a family and when you only get to go through it once...everything is a big deal or you might just miss out on something...so I have learned to stop and take the time to appreciate all these little baby steps.
I am getting so excited for our getaway trip...one of the best things about the whole trip is we'll be far into Amish Country...which is one of the loveliest places to visit and since I am a country girl at heart...I just bask in the slow lifestyle there.
I'll post more next week...hopefully some pictures too.
Blessings!
Joyce Marie
Wednesday, March 16, 2011
A Big Day!
It is a big day at our house. Brittany just passed her drivers test and is now a licensed driver. After having her temporary permit for just shy of 2 years...
My husband is home this week so the three of us were together on this landmark day and she now has insurance and is about to take her first solo drive to the grocery store and back. I have to ease myself into it you know.
We have all been sick at our house...you know how it is, one person goes down and then the next, followed by the next. I was the one that started it. I think that I am actually catching it again. Isn't that weird? I know where I got it. I was at a discount store and the clerk sounded awful. I washed my hands as soon as I got in my car that day...but she was coughing in her hand and handling my purchase...so I guess my clean hands didn't help. Not much you can do about it...
Been waiting for spring...and it feels as if it will never come. We have had snow then rain then snow then rain for so long...we just need some sunshine!
On a lighter note...my husband and I are about to celebrate our 26th wedding anniversary...we have a getaway planned for two whole nights next week. WE are so excited...we rented a pretty little cabin in the woods. Brittany is going to be on her own but her uncle is on call just in case she is in need. She'll have a friend over for a bit on Sunday and then she has to work on Monday so she'll be pretty busy. I keep asking her if she'll be ok at night...but, she is pretty used to it being just the two of us so she feels great about it. She gave me orders this morning that I am not to worry. I think I will try to take her up on that...
So...that is what has been happening here...
Blessings!
Joyce Marie
My husband is home this week so the three of us were together on this landmark day and she now has insurance and is about to take her first solo drive to the grocery store and back. I have to ease myself into it you know.
We have all been sick at our house...you know how it is, one person goes down and then the next, followed by the next. I was the one that started it. I think that I am actually catching it again. Isn't that weird? I know where I got it. I was at a discount store and the clerk sounded awful. I washed my hands as soon as I got in my car that day...but she was coughing in her hand and handling my purchase...so I guess my clean hands didn't help. Not much you can do about it...
Been waiting for spring...and it feels as if it will never come. We have had snow then rain then snow then rain for so long...we just need some sunshine!
On a lighter note...my husband and I are about to celebrate our 26th wedding anniversary...we have a getaway planned for two whole nights next week. WE are so excited...we rented a pretty little cabin in the woods. Brittany is going to be on her own but her uncle is on call just in case she is in need. She'll have a friend over for a bit on Sunday and then she has to work on Monday so she'll be pretty busy. I keep asking her if she'll be ok at night...but, she is pretty used to it being just the two of us so she feels great about it. She gave me orders this morning that I am not to worry. I think I will try to take her up on that...
So...that is what has been happening here...
Blessings!
Joyce Marie
Sunday, February 27, 2011
Brittany and I went to church this morning and it was so good...they just began a new series and it is so timely...called Fearless Living in Fearful Times. I have a bit of catching up as we have been absent for a few weeks. Anyway...we are studying the book of Daniel.
3 reminders that I came away with this morning are...
1. God is in Control...sometimes we forget that these times we are living in are all a part of God's plan. For instance, in Daniel Chapter 8, we found out that this was not to happen for 200 years...tying in history, our pastor was able to confirm what truly happened...fascinating! What peace we can have during troubled times if we can just remember this.
2. We can be appalled but still trust God and do His service. We must never stop standing up for what is right...for being of service to Him...for trying to reach the broken and lost. We have much work to do my friends. (I loved this because I have been appalled much of the last two years!)
3. We don't have to understand a circumstance to trust God...if we try to understand everything that happens to us...we will never have the trust in Him that we need.
Our pastor summed it up like this. "You can trust God without having complete understanding."
Isn't that fitting for these days that we are living through when everything feels like it is upside down and backwards? I really need to be reminded of this today and hope that maybe these words will help you too.
Wishing you a blessed Sunday...I am leaving soon to pick up my sweetheart from the airport...can't wait to give him a great big welcome home kiss!
Joyce Marie
3 reminders that I came away with this morning are...
1. God is in Control...sometimes we forget that these times we are living in are all a part of God's plan. For instance, in Daniel Chapter 8, we found out that this was not to happen for 200 years...tying in history, our pastor was able to confirm what truly happened...fascinating! What peace we can have during troubled times if we can just remember this.
2. We can be appalled but still trust God and do His service. We must never stop standing up for what is right...for being of service to Him...for trying to reach the broken and lost. We have much work to do my friends. (I loved this because I have been appalled much of the last two years!)
3. We don't have to understand a circumstance to trust God...if we try to understand everything that happens to us...we will never have the trust in Him that we need.
Our pastor summed it up like this. "You can trust God without having complete understanding."
Isn't that fitting for these days that we are living through when everything feels like it is upside down and backwards? I really need to be reminded of this today and hope that maybe these words will help you too.
Wishing you a blessed Sunday...I am leaving soon to pick up my sweetheart from the airport...can't wait to give him a great big welcome home kiss!
Joyce Marie
Saturday, February 26, 2011
End of Snow?
We were hit with two snow storms this week...this is the way we started our week and that is the way our week ended. Driving this morning, I was struck by just how much snow we actually got this week. While it is pretty...I couldn't help but notice the birds that were singing this morning as I opened the door. They were the birds of summer that I hear in my back yard...the one that sounds like it is saying "pretty, pretty, pretty" or as Brittany says they sing "Britty, Britty, Britty". I really needed to hear that this morning...it was a gentle reminder that Spring really is on it's way. Last night...just before sundown...the sun was shining and the sky was a bright blue...I was talking with my mom on the phone and she remarked that is sort of made her feel like maybe it was a promise that it truly was the end of winter. We can only hope...
My husband didn't make his flight this morning...he was up and out the door at 4:30 AM Texas time...and was greeted by a rental car that wouldn't turn over. The hotel could offer no assistance...no shuttle...no nothing. So, he rescheduled his flight for tomorrow and so we will wait for our homecoming dinner for one more day.
I finished all of my housekeeping for the week yesterday...well, not really, I do still have to dust but that won't take me more than a few minutes. My goal is to always be done so that I can keep Saturdays free...so I think, perhaps I'll curl up with a good book and just enjoy the fruits of my labor today.
Wishing you a great weekend,
Joyce Marie
My husband didn't make his flight this morning...he was up and out the door at 4:30 AM Texas time...and was greeted by a rental car that wouldn't turn over. The hotel could offer no assistance...no shuttle...no nothing. So, he rescheduled his flight for tomorrow and so we will wait for our homecoming dinner for one more day.
I finished all of my housekeeping for the week yesterday...well, not really, I do still have to dust but that won't take me more than a few minutes. My goal is to always be done so that I can keep Saturdays free...so I think, perhaps I'll curl up with a good book and just enjoy the fruits of my labor today.
Wishing you a great weekend,
Joyce Marie
Thursday, February 24, 2011
Well, guess what? I lost 7 lbs in one week! I can hardly believe it. Brittany lost 6! I looked at her face as she got on the scale and it shined with disbelief. Then I stepped on. I was so stunned I couldn't even do the math. Never have I managed to do that before...not even when a joined WW so many moons ago.
Our secret...just calorie counting. Haven't changed a thing...didn't go to the grocery store and buy a bunch of diet foods...we have been staying away from carbonated beverages for about three weeks...maybe that has a bit to do with it...not sure. We bough a Brita pitcher about a month ago and have been drinking plenty of water...maybe that helped. But I really think the key is eating just good old-fashioned, regular food and measuring everything we eat.
We are using this site to track our calories, water and activity...the best thing about the whole thing...it doesn't cost us a dime. Calorie Count
I just discovered that you can actually analyze a recipe....by putting in the ingredients. So all of those recipe favorites that I have in my book can now have a number attached to them. That is the key!
Time for me to get busy just thought I'd share my bit of news in bloggy land...I am trying to ignore the weather advisory of freezing rain and snow from tonight through tomorrow...and just focus on my day.
Blessings!
Joyce Marie
Our secret...just calorie counting. Haven't changed a thing...didn't go to the grocery store and buy a bunch of diet foods...we have been staying away from carbonated beverages for about three weeks...maybe that has a bit to do with it...not sure. We bough a Brita pitcher about a month ago and have been drinking plenty of water...maybe that helped. But I really think the key is eating just good old-fashioned, regular food and measuring everything we eat.
We are using this site to track our calories, water and activity...the best thing about the whole thing...it doesn't cost us a dime. Calorie Count
I just discovered that you can actually analyze a recipe....by putting in the ingredients. So all of those recipe favorites that I have in my book can now have a number attached to them. That is the key!
Time for me to get busy just thought I'd share my bit of news in bloggy land...I am trying to ignore the weather advisory of freezing rain and snow from tonight through tomorrow...and just focus on my day.
Blessings!
Joyce Marie
Wednesday, February 23, 2011
Ugh!
Nice title huh? That is how I am going to sum up this week.
Remember how I was raving about being in a melt down last week? I was even basking in the warmth of 58 degrees one day...oh, how I remember it well. The local talk radio guy said...there isn't any snow in the the forecast for the rest of the month. Inside, I was daring to hope it to be true. And then came Sunday evening...freezing rain and slush...by Monday afternoon...we had heavy snow and needless to say...8 inches later...we are right back where we started from. My mom had a foot...so I guess we got lucky.
Brittany has a bad cold so yesterday...we just let the blanket of snow surround us and tried to forget about it. She is feeling better today...so she strapped on her pocket timer and went out in 18 degree weather to shovel the driveway...because today is our weigh in at the Y. We have been counting our calories...and staying on track so we'll see. Haven't made it to the pool because she was sick and our weather was terrible...so we are going to pop in there today...use the scale and leave. I don't want her in the pool just yet...maybe tomorrow.
I am on track with my weekly jobs...almost done with my laundry...my bathroom took five minutes...my bedroom took another five minutes...today is kitchen day...so I'll do that when we get back here...
Tomorrow...we are supposed to have rain...go figure...it is Ohio after all.
Blessings!
Joyce Marie
Remember how I was raving about being in a melt down last week? I was even basking in the warmth of 58 degrees one day...oh, how I remember it well. The local talk radio guy said...there isn't any snow in the the forecast for the rest of the month. Inside, I was daring to hope it to be true. And then came Sunday evening...freezing rain and slush...by Monday afternoon...we had heavy snow and needless to say...8 inches later...we are right back where we started from. My mom had a foot...so I guess we got lucky.
Brittany has a bad cold so yesterday...we just let the blanket of snow surround us and tried to forget about it. She is feeling better today...so she strapped on her pocket timer and went out in 18 degree weather to shovel the driveway...because today is our weigh in at the Y. We have been counting our calories...and staying on track so we'll see. Haven't made it to the pool because she was sick and our weather was terrible...so we are going to pop in there today...use the scale and leave. I don't want her in the pool just yet...maybe tomorrow.
I am on track with my weekly jobs...almost done with my laundry...my bathroom took five minutes...my bedroom took another five minutes...today is kitchen day...so I'll do that when we get back here...
Tomorrow...we are supposed to have rain...go figure...it is Ohio after all.
Blessings!
Joyce Marie
Friday, February 18, 2011
Friday wrap-up
I have had a great week. I have accomplished so much this week and it feels so good. I followed my new housekeeping schedule except that I didn't have to grocery shop this week because I do this every two weeks. I have managed to put a good dinner on my table every night this week. My house is clean. I have gone to the pool three nights this week and Brittany and I began tracking our calories. We are officially ready for spring and it is a good thing because it is 56 degrees today and all the snow and ice are gone except for the piles at the end of our driveway...I just dropped off Brittany and whipped up some pizza dough, browned some turkey sausage with peppers and onions so that we can make pizza tonight. The only bad thing...our retaining wall by our sidewalk just fell over...I guess all the water and weight of snow and ice and high wind this afternoon was more than it could take...so tomorrow we have to break it up and get it off the sidewalk...and start looking for options of what to do down there this spring.
Can't win them all I guess...
Wishing you and yours a great weekend!
Joyce Marie
Can't win them all I guess...
Wishing you and yours a great weekend!
Joyce Marie
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
Keeping on Schedule
Well, it is Wednesday and as promised my bathroom has been scrubbed, my bedroom is sparkling and I can now add my kitchen to the mix. My two loads of laundry for today are on target and it is only 10:35. I absolutely love this Housekeeping Schedule. I only ask myself...why couldn't I have come up with it by myself. It is liberating to know that instead of killing myself one day a week to do all of the same things...I can do it piece by piece and get the same result and to top it all off...have time to do other things as well.
Brittany and I made it back to the gym last night...we spent an hour in the pool sort of creating our own workout...laps and then at the deep end some ballet moves and things I remembered from when I took water aerobics...all in all...I think we gave ourselves a total body work out and had a lot of fun too. I woke up this morning feeling all the work that I did...no soreness...just gentle reminders that I tired out my muscles and that feels good because I know I worked out good. We are heading back tonight...three days this week and then next week we'll go for five. We have been easing ourselves in between ice storms and frigid temperatures.
Our house is marooned with an island of ice all around us...it is very difficult to walk out there and salt still hasn't helped...we have to reserve what we have because the stores were out a week ago. I just skated to my outdoor trash can to take out my kitchen trash...but I made it back to my back porch without injury. The temp is supposed to reach 48 blessed degrees today and 58 degrees the next two days with a promise of rain which will hopefully not only melt this ice away but clean up outside too.
I think I am off to work on my little blanket for a while...it is turning out really cute!
Blessings!
Joyce Marie
Brittany and I made it back to the gym last night...we spent an hour in the pool sort of creating our own workout...laps and then at the deep end some ballet moves and things I remembered from when I took water aerobics...all in all...I think we gave ourselves a total body work out and had a lot of fun too. I woke up this morning feeling all the work that I did...no soreness...just gentle reminders that I tired out my muscles and that feels good because I know I worked out good. We are heading back tonight...three days this week and then next week we'll go for five. We have been easing ourselves in between ice storms and frigid temperatures.
Our house is marooned with an island of ice all around us...it is very difficult to walk out there and salt still hasn't helped...we have to reserve what we have because the stores were out a week ago. I just skated to my outdoor trash can to take out my kitchen trash...but I made it back to my back porch without injury. The temp is supposed to reach 48 blessed degrees today and 58 degrees the next two days with a promise of rain which will hopefully not only melt this ice away but clean up outside too.
I think I am off to work on my little blanket for a while...it is turning out really cute!
Blessings!
Joyce Marie
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
Just another Tuesday...
and all that water that melted yesterday is frozen solid. It sounds like I'm wining but I'm not...but it is treacherous outside. We'll only reach 35 today but the sun is supposed to shine which may help some of that ice melt. Our ice was so thick here...my husband has repeatedly put ice melt on it and it won't budge. Now, the snow is icy and our dogs can barely walk out there. The warm up comes Wednesday and Thursday and I am so hoping that most of this is gone by then...
On my agenda today...I am going to clean my bedroom, wipe down my woodwork, and change my bedding. Then there is the laundry...a new recipe for dinner that sounds good on the back of the Mexican cheese bag. I have to run out and buy A stamp. I am out and I only need one. Then, I get to start a baby blanket for my daughter's boss. She is expecting her 3rd boy in April and I thought it would be fun to do as I've never made a baby blanket before. I'm using three colors. Brown, beige and either blue or a pretty grassy green and I am using a velvety cotton as her baby is a spring baby and thought it would be soft and cool on his skin. I haven't decided about the color yet...I am really leaning toward the green...but then the blue would be really pretty too. I guess I'll decide when I start. I'm looking forward to it.
Brittany went to bed last night feeling like she was getting sick...she has had a pretty good run all of fall and winter so far. Many sick kids right now and she may have picked something up from one of her little dancers. I may have to add some sore throat medicine to my errand of buying one stamp.
Well, it is time to get this show on the road...
Blessings,
Joyce Marie
On my agenda today...I am going to clean my bedroom, wipe down my woodwork, and change my bedding. Then there is the laundry...a new recipe for dinner that sounds good on the back of the Mexican cheese bag. I have to run out and buy A stamp. I am out and I only need one. Then, I get to start a baby blanket for my daughter's boss. She is expecting her 3rd boy in April and I thought it would be fun to do as I've never made a baby blanket before. I'm using three colors. Brown, beige and either blue or a pretty grassy green and I am using a velvety cotton as her baby is a spring baby and thought it would be soft and cool on his skin. I haven't decided about the color yet...I am really leaning toward the green...but then the blue would be really pretty too. I guess I'll decide when I start. I'm looking forward to it.
Brittany went to bed last night feeling like she was getting sick...she has had a pretty good run all of fall and winter so far. Many sick kids right now and she may have picked something up from one of her little dancers. I may have to add some sore throat medicine to my errand of buying one stamp.
Well, it is time to get this show on the road...
Blessings,
Joyce Marie
Sunday, February 13, 2011
Friday, February 11, 2011
Robin Red Breast
I am so very happy to say that I just saw my first Robin which has to mean that better days are ahead for us. He or she just took a rather messy landing on my telephone line not more than 30 minutes ago. I can just tell that SPRING is in the air...
Blessings,
Joyce Marie
Wednesday, February 9, 2011
Ice and snow and I am so ready for spring!
It is so very cold here...so very snowy...with layers of ice under the current snow. Our driveway is a mess...we can't keep up and the stores are out of snow melt. Our road is even worse. I have been looking for two days for a Robin. I haven't seen one...can't blame the poor things if I were a Robin I certainly wouldn't want to come back here. There is a rumor that we are supposed to reach 40 degrees this weekend. I'll believe it when I see it...:)
We had a bit of excitement on our street yesterday...not the excitement that we want. We had a half a dozen police cars out here yesterday...the officers were walking along the sidewalk and down to the stop sign. One officer came of the driveway and my husband met her down there...apparently there was a home invasion yesterday around 3pm a couple of doors away from us. Apparently two black guys with guns! Ok...so that is pretty scary and not exactly what you want in your neighborhood. Just another sign that times are changing I guess. We even saw the forensics van...and to think we watch CSI...we knew what to watch for.
Other than all of this...life is pretty quiet. We made it to the YMCA last week one day...and were iced in the rest of the week...we made it there on Monday of this week...but it is so cold right now...I want it to warm up just a bit before I go and sweat and have to walk out of that place.
I scrubbed my kitchen floor this morning...had my rugs sitting on my back porch for about 15 minutes and they were frozen solid and crunched under my feet when I put them back down on the floor. Now that is cold!
We are having a pork roast...boiled potatoes and coleslaw for dinner and I need to get back to it. So stay warm...and I'll keep looking for those Robins...
Joyce Marie
We had a bit of excitement on our street yesterday...not the excitement that we want. We had a half a dozen police cars out here yesterday...the officers were walking along the sidewalk and down to the stop sign. One officer came of the driveway and my husband met her down there...apparently there was a home invasion yesterday around 3pm a couple of doors away from us. Apparently two black guys with guns! Ok...so that is pretty scary and not exactly what you want in your neighborhood. Just another sign that times are changing I guess. We even saw the forensics van...and to think we watch CSI...we knew what to watch for.
Other than all of this...life is pretty quiet. We made it to the YMCA last week one day...and were iced in the rest of the week...we made it there on Monday of this week...but it is so cold right now...I want it to warm up just a bit before I go and sweat and have to walk out of that place.
I scrubbed my kitchen floor this morning...had my rugs sitting on my back porch for about 15 minutes and they were frozen solid and crunched under my feet when I put them back down on the floor. Now that is cold!
We are having a pork roast...boiled potatoes and coleslaw for dinner and I need to get back to it. So stay warm...and I'll keep looking for those Robins...
Joyce Marie
Monday, January 31, 2011
Checking in...keeping in touch...
I have considered just deleting my blog...only for the fact that I just don't get on here much anymore. It makes me feel as if I am neglecting something. Just before I manage to actually push the delete key however, I can't bring myself to it because on here are many precious memories. So, although my posts may be lacking in excitement and are few and far between I will post from time to time...just to keep it going. Who knows maybe I will find my blogging mojo someday soon.
Things have been good. I am very tired of looking out my window and just seeing white...and gray with some black. Every now and then I see the large hawk that lives in the trees in the park next door fly by. That always brings such excitement to my day. A couple of weeks ago I was sitting looking out the front door and he landed on our porch rail right in the center of my door. I was so stunned that I couldn't speak but only make a noise that attracted Brittany's attention. I pointed and whispered for her to come quickly. I still couldn't believe my eyes. Before we could grab a camera he was off but he was a beauty!
I have been crocheting and trying to keep busy. I have been researching vegetable gardening in a shady yard and container vegetable gardening. Getting ready to experiment with peas, beans and lettuce this year. I am so hoping that it works. I mastered my cucumbers last summer...so I'll be planting those again. Since my large tomato did nothing...I think I'll try Roma and grape tomatoes on my front porch this year.
I am currently working on a table runner for my table. I am using #10 crochet cotton and a #7 hook. I have one square completed and am working on the second which will attach to the first. My goal is to finish a block a week and attach it as I go. If I do this then I should finish this project in about 3 months. Just in time for summer...which is good because the center of each square is a daisy. Brittany is crocheting circles around me. She has made many hats and scarves...is currently working on a purse and an ear band. She is always so much faster at things than I am...but then again...I seem to choose patterns with a lot of detail. I think perhaps I am a very detail oriented person.
We joined the Y...actually...it's brand new and within about a 7 minute drive from home. The building is gorgeous and I can finally swim again. My old Y closed a few years back and since I have been Pool-less. We went for the third time this morning. When we got in the car it was a whopping 8 degrees. We figure that if we can be dedicated when it is this bone chillingly cold...we have it made in a month or so. I am currently walkin on the treadmill. Brittany is running on the elliptical. Maybe someday I'll be in as good as shape as she is and join her. For now, I am just happy to be moving. I'll begin a half an hour of swimming here soon too...which will give me an hour a day workout. I did it the first day and couldn't move for the rest of the day when I got home...so I decided to take it slow...master the treadmill...add in the swimming a couple of days a week and go from there. I am doing it for the anti-aging factor...toning and if I manage to lose a few pounds then that will be great too.
We had sunshine today for the first time in quite a while...I guess it is the calm before the storm that is going to hit most everyone in the next few hours.
Blessings from frigid Northeast Ohio!
Joyce Marie
Things have been good. I am very tired of looking out my window and just seeing white...and gray with some black. Every now and then I see the large hawk that lives in the trees in the park next door fly by. That always brings such excitement to my day. A couple of weeks ago I was sitting looking out the front door and he landed on our porch rail right in the center of my door. I was so stunned that I couldn't speak but only make a noise that attracted Brittany's attention. I pointed and whispered for her to come quickly. I still couldn't believe my eyes. Before we could grab a camera he was off but he was a beauty!
I have been crocheting and trying to keep busy. I have been researching vegetable gardening in a shady yard and container vegetable gardening. Getting ready to experiment with peas, beans and lettuce this year. I am so hoping that it works. I mastered my cucumbers last summer...so I'll be planting those again. Since my large tomato did nothing...I think I'll try Roma and grape tomatoes on my front porch this year.
I am currently working on a table runner for my table. I am using #10 crochet cotton and a #7 hook. I have one square completed and am working on the second which will attach to the first. My goal is to finish a block a week and attach it as I go. If I do this then I should finish this project in about 3 months. Just in time for summer...which is good because the center of each square is a daisy. Brittany is crocheting circles around me. She has made many hats and scarves...is currently working on a purse and an ear band. She is always so much faster at things than I am...but then again...I seem to choose patterns with a lot of detail. I think perhaps I am a very detail oriented person.
We joined the Y...actually...it's brand new and within about a 7 minute drive from home. The building is gorgeous and I can finally swim again. My old Y closed a few years back and since I have been Pool-less. We went for the third time this morning. When we got in the car it was a whopping 8 degrees. We figure that if we can be dedicated when it is this bone chillingly cold...we have it made in a month or so. I am currently walkin on the treadmill. Brittany is running on the elliptical. Maybe someday I'll be in as good as shape as she is and join her. For now, I am just happy to be moving. I'll begin a half an hour of swimming here soon too...which will give me an hour a day workout. I did it the first day and couldn't move for the rest of the day when I got home...so I decided to take it slow...master the treadmill...add in the swimming a couple of days a week and go from there. I am doing it for the anti-aging factor...toning and if I manage to lose a few pounds then that will be great too.
We had sunshine today for the first time in quite a while...I guess it is the calm before the storm that is going to hit most everyone in the next few hours.
Blessings from frigid Northeast Ohio!
Joyce Marie
Friday, January 14, 2011
Friday
I really can't believe that it is Friday nor can I believe that we are the middle of January. Not such a bad thing when you are so looking forward to spring. My guy has been in Montreal this week will be home tomorrow evening and is right back out early Sunday afternoon. Next week he'll be in Phoenix. It's going to be crazy trying to pack in a weeks worth of not seeing him in less than 24 hours but it is what we do and if anyone can do it...my little family can.
Brittany and I have been busy this week working on projects. I have a picture but feel to lazy right now to post it...so I'll do that probably next week. I will say that I am happy with this project and am finally getting the hang of crocheting. I am loving it too. I put KLOVE on the radio in the morning...and then Limbaugh on in the afternoon...depending on what time of day that I am working on my project and I can totally entertain myself. It's so fun!
Brittany had her last eye exam on our insurance yesterday...she is getting new contacts...and when our plan renews in July...she'll update her glasses which will give her another two years at least because from then on she'll be on her own. Hopefully, we can find her at least a discount plan later on down the road to help her out.
Our lab is nearly 12 and as spry as a puppy...but she is having such problems this week with going potty so I have been researching like crazy what to do. They say pumpkin is good...tried it and it hasn't worked...oat bran too...think I'll add some to her food tomorrow. I just came back from the store and bought her a Senior food to try...it has more fiber than the other food we were using. I have been praying all day that she'll get some relief. It's hard to walk here with all the sidewalks covered in 7 plus inches of snow but I have read how good walking her would be so we had to walk in the street which isn't much better than the sidewalks here but we did it anyway and I think that really helped. I am going to walk her once more tonight...but she has felt better this afternoon and she went a tiny bit...which is better...so my fingers are crossed.
That's about it...I am feeling a bit like I live in the frozen Tundra about now. We had a pretty good snow this week...more on the way tonight and tomorrow who knows for next week. This is the part of winter that just drags on and on and on. Oh well...I guess that is what you get in the Northeast.
That's about it for now. Gotta get back to my project.
Blessings!
Joyce Marie
Oh and by the way...if you want to see what's inside the mind of my girlie girl...she made a new blog and I am sure she would love a visit...http://brittylou92.blogspot.com/
Brittany and I have been busy this week working on projects. I have a picture but feel to lazy right now to post it...so I'll do that probably next week. I will say that I am happy with this project and am finally getting the hang of crocheting. I am loving it too. I put KLOVE on the radio in the morning...and then Limbaugh on in the afternoon...depending on what time of day that I am working on my project and I can totally entertain myself. It's so fun!
Brittany had her last eye exam on our insurance yesterday...she is getting new contacts...and when our plan renews in July...she'll update her glasses which will give her another two years at least because from then on she'll be on her own. Hopefully, we can find her at least a discount plan later on down the road to help her out.
Our lab is nearly 12 and as spry as a puppy...but she is having such problems this week with going potty so I have been researching like crazy what to do. They say pumpkin is good...tried it and it hasn't worked...oat bran too...think I'll add some to her food tomorrow. I just came back from the store and bought her a Senior food to try...it has more fiber than the other food we were using. I have been praying all day that she'll get some relief. It's hard to walk here with all the sidewalks covered in 7 plus inches of snow but I have read how good walking her would be so we had to walk in the street which isn't much better than the sidewalks here but we did it anyway and I think that really helped. I am going to walk her once more tonight...but she has felt better this afternoon and she went a tiny bit...which is better...so my fingers are crossed.
That's about it...I am feeling a bit like I live in the frozen Tundra about now. We had a pretty good snow this week...more on the way tonight and tomorrow who knows for next week. This is the part of winter that just drags on and on and on. Oh well...I guess that is what you get in the Northeast.
That's about it for now. Gotta get back to my project.
Blessings!
Joyce Marie
Oh and by the way...if you want to see what's inside the mind of my girlie girl...she made a new blog and I am sure she would love a visit...http://brittylou92.blogspot.com/
Friday, January 7, 2011
Good morning
Baked Oatmeal
3 cups oatmeal
1 cup brown sugar
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
1 cup of milk
2 eggs
1/2 cup of melted butter or margarine
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Preheat oven to 350 degrees
In a large bowl, mix together all the ingredients and stir well. Spread in a 8" square pan.
Bake for 40 minutes
3 cups oatmeal
1 cup brown sugar
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
1 cup of milk
2 eggs
1/2 cup of melted butter or margarine
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Preheat oven to 350 degrees
In a large bowl, mix together all the ingredients and stir well. Spread in a 8" square pan.
Bake for 40 minutes
This is a perfect hot breakfast on a cold winter morning that will make your house smell wonderful and get all those warm little toes hitting the floor.
Enjoy,
Joyce Marie
Enjoy,
Joyce Marie
Thursday, January 6, 2011
As promised...I had to post a finished project that actually turned out really well. This is a cute little slouchy hat. A free pattern on Lion Brand called Charming Chapeau.
Quick and easy for me...and it was really fun to make.
I gave up on that other hat...who wants to make an ole hat when you can make something new and far more interesting...I'll keep you posted!
Blessings!
Joyce Marie
Tuesday, January 4, 2011
If at first you don't succeed....
you know the rest. I am a woman who is trying to knit and crochet and it is frustrating me so very much. Through it all though...I am learning patience and to not give up when I get frustrated...even when I want to open up the door and throw my project out in the snow!
I have given up on knitting for a while. I just simply can't figure out how to fix my mistakes...like dropping a stitch...to be more exact. I have watched the videos on net...just doesn't click in my weary brain. So...I laid all that aside and picked up the crochet hook. I have been working on a hat. Oh my goodness, how frustrated I am but I am about to take another stab at it. I found out that the pattern I was using was English Crochet terms...not American...(had no idea there were so many forms of crochet)so after about 3 weeks of messing with it...tearing it completely out twice...I will again begin this project if it kills me. I'll post a picture WHEN I manage to figure it out.
I did manage another winter hat in about 6 hours...it was pretty fun and if I can hold on to Brittany long enough I'll take a picture and post it here as well.
Other than that...still catching up on laundry...should be done by this evening...only to have a whole basket waiting for me in the bathroom upstairs...ahhh...is that job every done?
Sorry for the long ramble...couldn't think of anything else to write today!
Blessings!
Joyce Marie
I have given up on knitting for a while. I just simply can't figure out how to fix my mistakes...like dropping a stitch...to be more exact. I have watched the videos on net...just doesn't click in my weary brain. So...I laid all that aside and picked up the crochet hook. I have been working on a hat. Oh my goodness, how frustrated I am but I am about to take another stab at it. I found out that the pattern I was using was English Crochet terms...not American...(had no idea there were so many forms of crochet)so after about 3 weeks of messing with it...tearing it completely out twice...I will again begin this project if it kills me. I'll post a picture WHEN I manage to figure it out.
I did manage another winter hat in about 6 hours...it was pretty fun and if I can hold on to Brittany long enough I'll take a picture and post it here as well.
Other than that...still catching up on laundry...should be done by this evening...only to have a whole basket waiting for me in the bathroom upstairs...ahhh...is that job every done?
Sorry for the long ramble...couldn't think of anything else to write today!
Blessings!
Joyce Marie
Monday, January 3, 2011
Happy New Year...
My new year has started off with a bang in a very productive way. The sun is shining which always gives me a boost so I just spent the entire morning cleaning out my dresser and closet. I have a great big packed bag full of things that I am so tired of wearing or even looking at. Clothes, a few purses and a book are the first of my drop offs for the year. Another big bag of trash and my room has been thoroughly purged. I am hoping to paint in there soon...so this will make it much easier.
Cleaning out old purses entertained me for quite a while...made me think of one of those bridal shower games...what is the strangest thing that you are carrying in your purse? I actually had a bottle of unopened syrup from Cracker Barrel. I had to laugh at myself...
Much more to do as my laundry is backed up from the holidays...Brittany has her first night back with her classes and my sweetheart is hard at work today in his office upstairs.
A very productive day for us all...what have you been doing this first Monday in January?
Blessings,
Joyce Marie
Cleaning out old purses entertained me for quite a while...made me think of one of those bridal shower games...what is the strangest thing that you are carrying in your purse? I actually had a bottle of unopened syrup from Cracker Barrel. I had to laugh at myself...
Much more to do as my laundry is backed up from the holidays...Brittany has her first night back with her classes and my sweetheart is hard at work today in his office upstairs.
A very productive day for us all...what have you been doing this first Monday in January?
Blessings,
Joyce Marie
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