Happy Holidays!

We had a wonderful Thanksgiving this year at our house (mom's been a little out of commission with her back surgery). I even made dressing for the first time in my life!!! I must say, it was delicious!!! Our good friends, Kele and Mike (and their three precious babies--Presley, Mikah ((AKA Maddie's BFF)), and Jett) joined us. We had a relaxed time with loads of good food/lots of pictures/and lots of football!!!

We got to babysit one of our favorite gals, Presley, last Saturday. I sent Keith and the girls to church so that I could get lots of lovin (not before we crowed Miss Pres with pics though). The one I'm attaching cracks me up because Presley is giving Maddie and Grace a look like "you girls are crazy!"

Keith and I took Madeline and Grace to see Santa at Bass Pro on Saturday. They got all dolled up and were so excited to sit in Santa's lap. We were the second ones there so we got lots of Santa time. After sitting in his lap and giving their Christmas requests, we took pictures. Then, Grace had to show Santa her written list AND have him read it to HER (just in case she missed something). We stayed and looked at the fish, turtles, and stuffed Grizzly Bear. Then they made reindeer hats and colored Christmas pictures while having hot cocoa. It was so much fun!!

God is good

Suppose you can tell that life has been somewhat crazy in the Carlton house. Job changes, more sickness, pet decisions, Thanksgiving planning, Christmas planning, and reunion planning are just a few of the many things going on around here. Sounds crazy huh!!! In the midst of the chaos though, it's peaceful to KNOW that God is good. He is in control. He has a hand in my everyday life. Ahhhh... how do people live without that knowledge and peace???

We've already decorated the inside for Christmas. Yes, that's right (and I know we haven't had Thanksgiving yet). Sarah was here to other day though and it just seemed like the time to start. Keith and I let the girls decorate our small traditional tree. They had so much fun. Although I must admit that Grace's face look about like mine used to in pictures. You know mom....that "I do not want to be here" face.

Thanksgiving plans are underway. We are doing it here (since mom had back surgery and all, we don't want her to stress). It will be my very first time doing the dressing....mom's giving me her recipe. When she told me about it, her words were...."it's about time you learn, don't ya think?" I guess she's right. I just doubt very seriously I'll be able to top hers. I'll have to let you know how it goes!

I'm still helping mamaw plan for Christmas (although she's pretty much taken over at this point). She's insisting on doing it all. When I asked her if that would be too much, she replied "honey, I used to do it all the time...I'll be fine." I think I'll still go a few days early and insist she let me help her.

Keith's currently on a hunting trip but is expected back tomorrow night (late). He's worked so hard on mom and dad's deck at their lake house. I'll attach a picture so you can see it. I must admit, my husband never ceases to amaze me...he can do anything. He'll spend three days next week finishing up a small back patio off the back door for mom. The results are rewarding but I'll be so glad when this project is over.

Crazy, Busy

Well, obviously it's been crazy and busy being back at work (since I haven't blogged in 2 weeks). I'm still loving my classroom and will probably get to stay with these kiddos until Christmas break!!! I've already got my first dose of sickness though. UGH--it's very frustrating to be back in God's will, doing what I know He has called me to, and unable to stay physically healthy. I could use your prayers on that!

The girls and I will be attending our second week of AWANAS tonight and we are so excited! For those who don't know, it's an in-depth bible verse program for kiddos 3 years until 12th grade. Madeline and Grace learned their very first bible verses last week! It's been so neat to see them dig into God's word and hide it in their heart.

Hope you are have a blessed week and I'll try to write more later (and update with some new photos!)

A week of realizations and inspirations

My first week back in the classroom was successful! I really love my class and am already sad at the realization that it will end in only 12 short weeks. I always thought I was a good teacher, but I'm a better teacher now that I have children of my own. I've found myself being much more patient with those kids who tend to "test your nerves." I just have a new appreciation for the field and am so grateful that God opened a door for me to return! I have been especially touched this week by a little boy named Jaylon. What a blessing our children can be. (I also have a new appreciation for good shoes...what a blessing good shoes are to my tired feet)!

Grace and Madeline had a good week too. They both have colds, but we are just pushing through them and I'm determined to stay at peace and trust God. My normal response would've been one of stress and "oh my goodness...sick again." God is faithful though and I trust him.

I have become aware of two individuals at our church (LakePointe) who are fighting cancer. Alex Modesitt is 18 years (Alex has a caringbridge.org site that I would encourage you to check out) and Steve Warren is 41 years. I've been lifting them both up in constant prayer. Their struggles have made me hear the call that God wants more of me. I'm just going to commit and pray that He show me His will.

When I look at what others are going through, it is a reminder that there is always someone who has more struggles than myself. His GRACE is sufficient!!! God has used His people to minister to Keith and I over the past 5 years and especially 6 months, and I'm looking forward to "paying it forward."

Praises this week are that my sweet 6 month old friend, Presley, is doing much better! We are praying/hoping that she will have an exciting homecoming this week! That sweet baby is such a fighter and has endured more than most of us do in a lifetime. It's so exciting to see God as work in her little life and I can't wait to watch the wonderful ways in which He will use her to bless others!

Until next time....

Springer called this morning that they want me as their 3rd grade long term sub. I am so excited!!! This means that I can get myself back into the swing of things and slowly collect items for my own classroom next year. I begin on Friday. Please continue to pray for all us as this will bring about big changes for our family (mostly Madeline). This job will go through November or December, depending on when Jackie has her baby. After that time, I will try to find another long term sub position or I will sub everyday in different classrooms.

Grann took Grace school shopping yesterday and she's all dolled up and geared up for school. I let her choose one outfit to wear today but the others are off limits until next week. Of course she chose the Hannah Montanna blue shirt and shorts. She's sitting her in room now with sunglasses on her head, loaded up with bangle bracelets, pink toenails and fingernails, her Hannah Montanna purse, and her sassy attitude....oh me, she's growing too fast!!!

I'm attaching some photos of the girls (yes, I found my camera battery charger). These pics are from their swimming class and their new haircuts. Enjoy!
Love you all!

Trust God's plan

It's been a few weeks since I've written. I'm bummed because I can't find my camera charger to update pictures on this blog. The girls both got their hair cut (in Grace's case, she cut it all off....it looks so great). I'll try to find that soon so I can post pics of my babies...

I have had so much happen in the past 7 days and I know it's God's plan. He always sees what we don't and I'm learning to trust in His direction and plan rather than my own.

I didn't plan on going back to work for at least two more years, but with gas prices and living costs and our economy, we came to the realization that I would have to. I began a quest last Thursday for a job back in education, but no necessarily a full time teacher. Well, after many occurences, it looks like I may be teaching in the classroom again when school starts. (I should know by week's end so I'll wait to share that). I have had people come back into my life that haven't been there for five years. These sweet, christian, people have gone out of their way to help me get back into a full time job. I can't tell you how reassuring it is to have total peace in the "going back to work" mindset. Keith will be available to take Grace to school and pick her up everyday, and my friend's mother will keep Madeline twice a week in her in-home daycare. God has just taken care of everything....who knew I'd be glad Keith is working nights??? But see, God knew that we'd need him on that schedule over a year ago. He always sees the big picture. It reminds me that I should be ever so thankful I'm not the creator of the universe because I would have it all so screwed up :)

Mind you, I am not a pack rat, so I will literally be starting from scratch. I told Keith this morning, "I'm going to have to get my creative juices flowing and figure out creative ways of using butcher paper to decorate an entire classroom." LOL....it's okay though, God will take care of that too.

I'd like to list the people who have had a hand in helping me with this journey the past few days. These are good people, new and old friends in education, who still care after all this time. Mike Pitcher, Diane Almon, Lori (her last name is leaving my brain at the moment...counselor at Springer), Tara Moffatt, Jennifer Scamperino, Kelly Johnson, Cheryl (also last name leaving me....secretary at Hartman), and a new friend Becky Reidling. Thanks to all of you..

Triumps and Trials

From my last blog, you probably know that this past weekend was full of trials. However, we had a special triumph to celebrate also. My grandmother (better known as mamaw) celebrated her 80th birthday! We threw her a surprise birthday party at the church she's attended all her life. Many don't realize she's 80 because she acts and looks about 20 years younger. She just got back from a Hawaiian cruise with all her children and their spouses in June, and then ventured to Israel where she rode 2 camels!!! She is one amazing woman!!!
Keith, the girls, and myself stayed with her on Saturday night and it was so much fun. We stayed up until 11:30 reminiscing about old times, discussing projects for Keith to do on our next visit, making plans for a Longview Christmas, and sharing some Blue Bell (that's always been a nightly ritual when staying with mamaw). We can't wait to plan our next visit.
I also got to visit with some old friends from high school after we attended our classmate and friend's funeral. The circumstances for our being together weren't good ones, but nontheless, it was great to see faces that I haven't seen in many years.
Until next time....stay safe and enjoy each moment given to live life to the fullest! Love you all

My first blogging attempt....a reminder that life is short

As I sit here this morning, I am realizing how fragile life is. I find myself very tired from the events of last night (more on that later) and almost frustrated that my kids are running around playing and loud. However, I've had to stop and remember that life is short and I must enjoy these times with them as they will soon pass.Last night I received terrible news that a friend from high school killed himself. WOW, words aren't enough to express my shock and sadness. He left behind a wife and three children. I've been up most of the night praying for their sweet family and find peace in knowing that they KNOW the Lord, and so did he. Romans 8:38 reminds me that "For I am persuaded that neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities nor powers, nor things present nor things to come, nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord." I find my solice in that verse remembering when Casey accepted Christ as his Savior. No matter what was going on in his life to trouble him, I know that death hasn't separated him from his Savior. Casey is with the Lord.
Shortly after receiving the news about Casey last night, my parents had a wreck. A drunk driver hit them going at least 80 miles per hour. After some time in the ER, my mom is okay but is very sore. Again, a reminder to not take life for granted; it can end at any given moment....they were only 2 blocks from their home.
As I finish this blog for today I would like to end with 2 Samuel 22:2 "The Lord is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; The God of my strength, in Him I will trust, My shield and the horn of my salvation, My stronghold and my refuge." I am so thankful for my salvation and I'm thankful that I came to that knowledge as a child//before my wordly wisdom could take root. Although I don't always understand the happenings on this earth, I take comfort in knowing that He is in control. I don't have to be! I don't want to be!