Please....Are You Driving a Phonebooth or a Vehicle??!

I thought I would title my entry with some silly question. I don't know why I have not written any entries the past several weeks.

April: ACTS Retreat, Easter, job hunting, trip to Denver for niece's First Holy Communion, organizing house, volunteer stuff, Paulie stuff

Paul and I went to Denver the last weekend in April for Lauren's First Communion. Both sets of my parents made the trip too...one set from STL, the other from Crystal Mountain, MI. My step-sister and her family live in Littleton and so we spent the first day with Nikki and the little boys. My Mom and Wayne were there too and we had a fun day! See pictures below....

Grandad with Paul and Jake. Wayne is my Mom's husband (23 years) & we love him! Paul adores him!

Paul and cousin Jake

Friday - we spent the day with my Dad and Jean at the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo in Colorado Springs. Paul wanted to ride the sky ride...uh, I am sort of afraid of heights, but I put my big girl panties on and took him. My Dad went too - Jean stayed on the ground! I could tell Paul was not feeling well.....cranky, not eating, lethargic. I dropped my expensive SLR camera twice that day on the concrete (yes, it's broken) and then we had a family dinner at Bucca Di Beppo. Paul was so not feeling well and actually asked me during dinner, "Mommy, can I go to bed?" Awwww, poor baby. Saturday morning was First Communion and Lauren looked beautiful. Another nice family lunch afterwards and then back to my brother's house for Mario Kart action on the Wii. OMG - for those of us who had never done it - it was rather humorous! BIG TIME FUNNY! Sunday was hanging with the family and playing at my brother's house.

Well hello Mrs. Giraffe!!


My Dad and Paul

The next weekend we all went to Houston for our nephew's First Holy Communion. Daniel looked very handsome and we were all so proud. We had a fun time with Danny's brother and his family. Paul did not want to leave on Sunday. He had a wonderful time playing with his cousins. Marisa is almost 13 and Daniel is 8, so there is quite an age difference.

So much more to blog about...this is my therapy! But I will end this entry with some funny Paul stories and some inspiration and His word.

Recently, Paul was upset with me and said (in a calm and assertive voice) "Mom, you go to timeout." Paul has been watching a DVD with animated characters about the bible. Bible stories and now Paul narrates it and loves it!!! One day at school week, Miss Laina said to Paul in the bathroom, "Paul, Jesus would like for you to go tinkle in the potty...." Paul looked at her and said "Jesus is not here!" Miss Laina said "then where is he?" Paul's reply..."He's on TV!" Paul can be somewhat dramatic too - uh, can that be genetic????!!!

On Mother's Day I took Paul to Sea World. Danny stayed home and trimmed trees and bushes. We had a grand time! Paul loves the Shamu roller coaster and so wanted to ride The Journey to Atlantis - but he is one inch too short! UGH!!!

I need this more than ever now and thought I would share with the masses.

Isaiah 26:3 says, "You will keep them (you and me) in perfect peace whose mind is fixed on You, because they trust You." Each day we struggle to rise above our petty fears and worries, and little by little I am succeeding. Thank you Lord for Your grace.

Repeat:

I am not alone for God is always with me.

I am not afraid for God is always protecting me.

I will bear good fruit for God is helping me.

I will persevere for God is sustaining me.

I will be saved for God is calling me.

Whatever is Lovely....Think About Such Things

So, what came to your mind? A gentle breeze, birds singing, quiet time with God, time alone with your spouse, chocolate, the beach, a sunset, a sunrise, Susan Niño...... :-)

Oh my - it has been ** days since my last post. All I can say is BUSY BUSY and more BUSY!

I am often accused of being all over the place. This is usually true. I think it stems from multi tasking and using lots of energy! So, this post will be about 2 topics...THE LOVE DARE Journey & Brian Mylar's 50th Birthday Bash!

The Love Dare

Have you seen the movie FIREPROOF yet people?! I have been telling you and others about it for a few months now! And it's not just for marriages on the verge of collapse....for all marriages. And if you sit there and tell me - "please, my marriage is dandy and we have no room for improvement" - yeah, WHATEVER DUDE! Wouldn't you like to enhance your marriage and truly understand unconditional love and fireproof for marriage for the day when you hit a rocky part - cause you will! Unless you are not breathing...... Unconditional Love is eagerly promised at weddings, but rarely practiced in real life. As a result, romantic hopes are often replaced with disappointment. But it does not have to stay that way. Along with the movie, is the book titled....The Love Dare. A 40 day challenge for husbands and wives (and I would say - even those people who are thinking of marriage) to practice unconditional love. Please be aware - this is NOT easy - trust me! I am on day 15 and whew! Each brief chapter has incredible insight and scripture and then the love dare for that day. There are reflection questions and a lines for you to write - or what I call journal. Here are a few things I have read and taken to heart and would like to share with all of you! I suggest reading this stuff over and over and over again! Until you completely understand and go with it!

1. Love is built on two pillars that best define what it is. Those pillars are patience and kindness. One think about Danny that absolutely drives me CRAZY is he is sooooo slow. I often call him Danny the Sloth! I have no patience with him on this.....so I now must have it!

2. Kindness is love in action! There are 4 basic ingredients on kindness.....gentleness, helpfulness, willingness and initiative. Don't wait for your spouse to be kind first - you do it! Love determines to show thoughtful actions even when there seems to be no reward. You will never learn to love until you learn to demonstrate kindness. Personally - this is an area that often baffles me when I hear people talk about the unkind things they say and do to their spouse. What makes you so high and mighty?! Didn't your mother teach you to be kind?!

3. Men - hear this! A woman deeply longs for her husband to be thoughtful. It is a key to helping her feel loved. I do agree with this! Love thinks before speaking. it filters words through a grid of truth and kindness. Uh, Susan often lacks a filters..... do u?!

4. You should constantly look at your spouse as a child of God. God put him/her in your care. Are you doing it? I have been saying over and over..."God gave me Danny & I need to take care of him - always!" And think about this - How does your behavior affect your mate's sense of self worth and self esteem?

5. If you are walking under the influence of love, you will be a joy, not a jerk and annoying to be around. (I have detached myself from people who are not so joyful and oh so negative!) Ask yourself: "Am I the calming breeze, or a storm waiting to happen?" I don't know about you - but I know plenty of people who are the storm...and sometimes it is me!

6. I encourage you to write down positive traits/characteristics of your spouse and keep this in your wallet! When you get annoyed, upset or angry - pull it out and go over it! I bet it changes your state of mind and you get over being angry or hurt quicker!

7. Ok, peeps - hear this one! Have you ever heard someone say......I have fallen out of love with my spouse." What they are really saying is....I never loved them unconditionally to begin with. Love was based on feelings or circumstances rather than true commitment. Unconditional love or AGAPE love - will NOT be swayed by time or circumstance. God loves us no matter what - so, why don't we have that in our marriages?! Practice saying...."I love you period!"

8. Love Fights Fair - I am the master of not doing this. And then I push Danny to his breaking point and he joins in on the whole not fighting fair. Think about this - and do it: deal with your own issues up front. "Why do you look at the speck that is in your brother's eye, but do not notice the log that is in your own eye?" (DANG!) from Matthew 7:3 This verse blew me away! Fighting fair means changing your weapons. Disagree with dignity. It should result in building a bridge instead of burning one down. Love is not a fight, but it is always worth fighting for!

9. Love is honorable - your mate should be holy doesn't mean they are perfect. Holiness means they are set apart fro a higher purpose - no longer common or everyday but special and unique. Your spouse is sacred and should be to you! Remember - HOLY MATRIMONY?! We need to honor and respect our spouse. I might be wrong - but I think men really want respect from their wives - am I right men?! This might be in the top 3 things you want from your wife? Of all the sacrifices - we should sacrifice the most for our spouse. With all our spouse's sins, faults, mistakes and failures - we still need to choose to love and honor them. I know - what Susan? How hard is this going to be. But I think that is how we can really create an atmosphere for love to be rekindled. Think about it - really - think about it! Lead your heart to truly love your mate again. It CAN be done - if you think you no longer love him/her.

Brian Mylar's 50th Surprise Birthday Bash - planned and hosted by his lovely bride and my sweet friend ZZ. This past Saturday @ The Holiday Inn Select. Great food, great friends and when Brian arrived - I think he was taken back by all of us! I would say about 75 people were in attendance. The food was oh so yummy!!!! Drinks - shots, mariachi band..the works! Kudos to ZZ for pulling it off! You can be my party planner any time sister! My shoes were a hit too - they usually are. I am known for cute, super cool and sexy shoes! See below.....these are by Carlos Santana and I love them!! I usually do not take part in tequila shots - but I was coerced by my ACTS brothers and sisters - we are Catholic! I only did 2 though.....yuck!! You should have seen my face and body shiver after each one -- apparently it made everyone laugh! I bet! One gal commented.."Susan, even though you did a tequila shot, ate Mexican food and danced with the mariachis--you are still WHITE - yeah, we know!! Below are several pictures from the evening. Danny and I had a wonderful time! We love our church family and are blessed to have so many couples who share our faith and love and support us - no matter what! Thank you friends - we appreciate you!

Danny and Billy Johnson above and Kathy and Bill Johnson below.

Birthday Boy - Brian Mylar

The donkey became very thirsty around 9pm - so we gave her some drinks!

TGIF

Good morning!

I am the busiest unemployed person I know! I am still job hunting and am getting close to possibly applying at HEB, Target, Best Buy or Hobby Lobby. The only potential problem I see with those places - is working weekends and evenings. Time with Paul and Danny are so important. I am plugging away at securing a teaching position in the Catholic Schools for this next school year. I have not been able to shake the idea for a couple of years now and feel it is God's will. So, we shall see! I am at peace with the fact it may not happen this year and it may take another year to accomplish my goal. God throws all these detours my way....I guess I have to take them so I can get there! :-)

We go next week to the neurologist to find out the results of Paul's sleep study. We took Paul in again to the Kids Express lab this week where they took urine and oh, 6 tubes of blood. Poor baby - his arm is badly bruised this time b/c they had a hard time getting it this time around.

Why it is every time Obama talks to the nation - the market drops?! I know why..... Can you believe he said on national TV that the market is not that important. Ummmm, ok - tell that to all the people who have lost value on their retirement and pension funds. Way to go America - electing this man. UGH!

There is so much to blog about, but I have limited time right now. We have a new edition to the Niño family - my sister and brother in law had Esteban Andres on Feb. 26. He was 1 oz shy of 9lbs. He is a cutie boy and I can't wait to see him! They live in Friendswood, TX and so it is some distance.

The women's ACTS retreat is fast approaching. We are on the home stretch in our preparation! The retreat weekend is April 2-5. It will be rockin and spirit filled weekend! There is room for 42 women to attend I so far we have 37 or 38. It will fill up and many will be on the waiting list.

I am headed to Chuck E Cheese today for a 12:30 birthday party for Miss Anissa. She turns 4! Her Daddy is a childhood friend of Danny's. Paul is at school, so I am going alone. But that's ok - more freedom for me to play with the other kiddos & play games!! Woo Hoo!!

I finish this brief entry with this.....

Jesus is the light of the world. He is the truth, the way and the light. He sanctifies our spirit and sets our heart on fire!

I heard this scripture last night at my Stephen Ministry meeting and it spoke directly to me.....maybe it will do the same for you!
From James 1:2-6.... "Consider it all joy, my brothers (& sisters) when you encounter various trials, for you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. And let perseverance be perfect, so that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing. But if any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God who gives to all generously and ungrudgingly, and he will be given it. But he should ask in faith, not doubting, for the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea that is driven and tossed about by the wind. "

Susan Ran a 5K on Saturday and Didn't Puke!

I began working out again in January. I was going along well and then WHAM-- little Paulie got really sick for 12 days and I did not make it to the gym. Then WHAM - I got sick. So, the two weeks before this 5K run--Susan did not exercise and boy was I worried about Saturday. My worries proved true as I had a difficult time running the 5K at UTSA. So, I had to walk and run. It was a really good morning though - cloudy....slight breeze at times...and 62ish. I picked up my pal Julie and off we went. Her husband and kids came later to see us off and then wait the "blank" minutes for our return over the finish line. It was awesome! I was keyed up afterwards. I talked to a few nice people on the course - who were struggling like me. Now, Julie and I are going to run the SPURS/CASA Speak Out for Kids 5K on March 21 at the AT&T Center. And we're off.....
I am getting back to the gym this week! Julie and I have a goal to do the Rock n Roll half marathon in Nov - so we have some time - but we have a lot of training to do!

Paul had a sleep study done recently and we go next month to the neurologist for the results. He and I suspect Paul has sleep apnea. Danny has it..and I know his brother and Mom probably have it too..as well as my Dad. Did u know babies and kids can have it?! I bet you didn't know....
I reminded Danny we have to take Paulie in for more blood work this week. But this time he has to fast. Danny has a busy week so I need to find someone to go with me. I don't do needles well and will cry when my baby has to lie on the hospital bed and get 7 tubes of blood drawn. Any takers on going with us???? Please....!!! Pretty Please with sugar and a cherry on top!

I am the busiest unemployed person I know..... along with getting things lined up for subbing in NEISD and working on getting a job in the Catholic Schools..here are other things going on in my life....

Monday: ARD/IEP for Paul 8am & ACTS meeting from 7-9pm.
Tuesday: Breakfast with Tina & Digital Photography Class with Rhonda 7:30 - 9pm
Wednesday: The South Texas Pediatric Stroke Stroll Committee meeting - 5:30pm
Thursday: Lunch with my Spiritual Mentor & Book Club at 7:30pm

This is also the last week for me to raise money for my Queen of the Vine Campaign. I fell so short of my original goal, but I will continue to raise money and awareness for Brighton forever!

On Friday is a very special birthday - my best friend Stacey! I met her my senior year at KU. My sweetie pie boyfriend Ace was shaking a rug over the balcony and the dirt was falling...on her head as she came up the stairs. What a first meeting indeed! She was in grad school and even though she did her undergrad work at Kansas State, we became fast friends and remain close. We are so much alike-it is scary at times. She lives in Edwardsville, IL with her husband and 2 boys. Something funny --she and a high school classmate were in my first wedding in 1992. And during our class reunion - learned Elaine lives in Edwardsville and went to MOPS with Stacey. But neither of them remembered one another or the Susan connection. How bizarre is that?!

Danny and Master Paul went to Houston yesterday/today to surprise his Mom for her 85th birthday. Mary Esther moved to Houston and moved in with Danny's brother and his family a few years ago. I understand Paul had a great time with everyone and played hard. Uh, what's new?! He had so much fun that apparently he did not wish to leave and would not give anyone a hug today - b/c he knew that meant he was leaving. I was anxious for them to return today. I was a little sad when Danny called at 3pm to let me know they just left. I was hoping they would be home around 4...but instead it was 6:30.

I read a cute phrase today -- "Good Moms bake..Smart Moms outsource!"

For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother's womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well. My frame was not hidden from you when I was made in that secret place. When I was woven together in the depths of the earth, your eyes saw my unformed body. All the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be. Psalm 139:13-16

Ok peeps--just because you accept Christ, life is not in an instant completely bearable. It isn't daisy's and roses. There are still hard times. There is still the pain. Yet along with that pain there is hope. And peace. And a better tomorrow because Christ claims you as His own. I am blessed to have Danny as a husband so many friends who really know me - and love and support me anyway. :-) Danny & I have each other...and we have Christ. If I had real faith and trust in the Lord, much of my pain might have been easier to bear. These past five years have been awesome and I now cannot imagine going through any pain and hardships not knowing Jesus. The peace He has given me... and will give me. The hope and comfort He has offered... and will always offer - one word...OUTSTANDING.

My wish & prayer for the coming month - that all the people I know...and those who I don't know..will watch the movie FIREPROOF. Whether you are married or not - you MUST view this incredible movie. Watch it alone - with your spouse - with a friend. I don't care - but watch it. Not only do we need to fireproof our marriages, but simply put - we need to fireproof our lives from Satan. He will keep coming after us and if we don't have the faith and trust in God--he just might win! And bottom line peeps - Satan Sucks! Tell him to GO TO HELL!

Hugs to all!

By Your Side

This song - By Your Side - is one that I have been listening to a lot the past few weeks. I encourage you to listen to it on ITUNES or FB ILike. It is by Tenth Avenue North. The lyrics are very powerful is you listen closely and take them to heart. I agree that too many people fight God - they don't allow Him to guide them or His hands to hold them.

Today is my friend Paul's 40th birthday. He and I went to elementary school together in Southfield, MI ( a suburb of Detroit). I lived on Red Maple Lane and he lived on Oldstream..one street over. He was the only boy at my 7th bday party - which of course was a swim party in our backyard. He and I and our brothers and Tom Harm and many others would play kickball, kick the can, ghost in the graveyard and football. I wonder if he remembers this - our two homes had the same floor plan. I just realized and remembered that myself. We had so much fun in that neighborhood. We lived near a creek that would freeze in the winter and we would all go down there and ice skate and goof around. Danny had a cousin named Paul - he was tall, handsome, cool and fun to be around; and we would describe my friend Paul in the same manner. Danny's cousin Paul drowned at Lake Amistad in 1992. So in honor of him and my childhood friend--we named our son Paul.

Saturday morning I set out for Friendswood, TX - just a little south of Houston. Danny's brother's wife is having their third child in 4 weeks and there was a baby shower in her honor at 2pm. Hi Chris and Veronica! My bil mentioned he has never been written about in my blog. All went well with traffic and weather UNTIL - the dreaded 45 South (to Galveston) near Hobby Airport. It was a parking lot and I had a few more miles to go but could see it could take an hour or more. Chris called it the Bataan Death March and if you know history - you will get that comment! Good thing I have a good sense of direction and I knew I could go west.....then south and get to their house. I took an exit with Chris' help and made it to their home with about 20 min to change and get ready to leave for the shower. Three aunts from SA were stuck on I-45 and having a meltdown. So, we had to get them off the highway and east of I-45 to a landmark so we could go there and get them. We did so and they followed us to the baby shower. Whew! I had my 12 year old niece in my car with me - and we were jammin out to The PussyCat Dolls - I Hate This Part. The music was loud and we were dancing as we drove along Space Center......we listened to that song about 5 times on that trip! She kept saying.."play it again Aunt Susan." She told me..."you are still fun Aunt Susan!" Yeah, I know girl!

Oh, my brother in law has started is own business - Tejas IT Solutions..or TITS for short. lol His website is still in progress; his email address is chris.nino@tejasitsolutions.com

The shower was nice -a ton of people. I of course was the official picture taker. And given that hell on I-45, I had to have a cold beer! Below are a few pics from the event.

My Mother in Law, Veronica and her Mom Gloria (above).

Danny's cousin Liza and her little boy Will - they traveled from SA too and were stuck on I-45!

After the shower, we went back to Chris and Veronica's house to relax and visit. Then around 10 - Veronica, Marisa and I went to Friday's and had some appetizers. Back at the house later - I was in the study watching Daniel - my 7 year old nephew - play Clone Wars on the laptop. WOW - impressive! At midnight - we sent him to bed. I wanted to use the laptop to do some FB stuff. Chris was on his computer and we hung out for an hour I think. Chatting about music and FB stuff and work issues. My trip home on Sunday was not as crazy. Although it did rain some on I-10. I do have to write about the Sunday morning activity at the house and all its craziness..but another time.

Paul had been sick since Thursday with a fever and a bad cough. He still has the cough and probably will for another week, but the fever is finally gone. He went back to school yesterday!

I am headed to the gym in about an hour. And then home to make dinner for my boys!

My advice for today - It's not too late to be what you might have been! From Isaiah 43:18-19 - "Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past...I am making a way in the desert and streams in the wasteland."

How Do Dinosaurs Say Good Night?

This is a book Santa gave Paul for Christmas. It is a lovely hardback with beautiful pictures. We read it this morning before school - and last night before bed. Paul went to sleep last night with no protest and stayed in his room asleep until 2amish. Then he came in our room and tapped me on the arm and said, "Mama, snuggle with you?" "Oh sure," I said - Danny is in Dallas. Paul is so sweet - he kissed me a few times on my arm and head before drifting off to sleep. At 7:05 I was awakened by a little voice asking for juice and a cereal bar..and to watch The Little Einsteins. The routine was off this morning as Danny always takes Paul to school. So, we had a little meltdown in his classroom when I was leaving....but I know it only last a few minutes. It was mostly for show and for my benefit. Kids are funny that way right?!

My monthly book club meeting last Thursday was a good one. We discussed The Shack. People either loved it or not so much. I was in between really. It is a fictional book - so remember that! Adrianna made a very nice spread and I of course took a bottle of wine. I had prepared discussion questions ahead of time and sent them to all the gals. We had a huge turnout with about 13 people! This month's book is Waiting for Morning by Karen Kingsbury. I went and bought it today and will start reading it this tomorrow. It looks to be a book on forgiveness..something every Christian is called to do..no matter what! Lamentations 1:20 says, "I am in torment within, and in my heart I am disturbed." And Lamentations 5:21-22 says, "Restore us to yourself, O Lord, that we may return, renew our days as of old unless you have utterly rejected us and are angry with us beyond measure." I ask you to consider this....who in your life has weighed you down with chains? Have you forgiven them? If not - why? Ask God to help you do so.

I finally watched the inspirational movie FIREPROOF..with the handsome Kirk Cameron. He is a doll!!! OMG - incredible movie!! Danny then watched it Monday evening and we talked about it for a while--until the wee hours of the morning. If I had all the money in the world, I would purchase the bundle for all married people. There is a DVD, guidebook and the 40 day Love Dare Journal. Go here for the info on the material. Go here for the primary site of the movie.
Forgiveness and unconditional love are important and real messages in this movie.

Pull out your bible and read these passages........and reflect and act on them!
Proverbs 15:1; James 1:19–20; Matthew 5:21–26; Romans 12:17–21; Galatians 5:19–21; Isaiah 55:5–7; Psalm 130:3–4; John 15:5–7; Matthew 11:28–30.

Tonight I am attending a meeting for the planning of the inaugural Pediatric Stroke Awareness Walk-A-Thon. My friend Julie has a young son/toddler who suffered a stroke when he was only a couple months old. She wishes to start a chapter here in San Antonio for Pediatric Stroke Awareness and I am going to help!

And for the ladies..........these Lancome beauty products ROCK my world - get them!
*Absolue Powder - gives u a younger, softer face! Oh and it sparkles a little. :-)
*Maquicomplet coverup - conditions too! I of course use a light shade...ivoire
*CILS lash conditioner - love it!!!!
Thanks to Robyn for helping me look more glamorous and vibrant!

Jonah's Prayer

Good morning peeps! For some reason I was ready to rise at 5:30am today. Danny, Paul and Oreo were all still asleep. I had some quiet time and did a reflection. It is very nice to start the day doing this. Do you think I can get up everyday at 5:30 and do this? Maybe...

Ok, at my ACTS meeting on Monday night, we heard the story of Jonah - his prayer..from CH 2. The prayer teaches us many things: 1. obedience to God 2. willingness of spirit 3. gratitude 4. compassion 5. God's mercy 6. God's patience

From the book of Jonah 2: 1-10
"But the LORD sent a large fish, that swallowed Jonah; and he remained in the belly of the fish three days and three nights. From the belly of the fish Jonah said this prayer to the LORD, his God: Out of my distress I called to the LORD, and he answered me; From the midst of the nether world I cried for help, and you heard my voice. For you cast me into the deep, into the heart of the sea, and the flood enveloped me; All your breakers and your billows passed over me. Then I said, "I am banished from your sight! yet would I again look upon your holy temple." The waters swirled about me, threatening my life; the abyss enveloped me; seaweed clung about my head. Down I went to the roots of the mountains; the bars of the nether world were closing behind me forever, But you brought my life up from the pit, O LORD, my God.
When my soul fainted within me, I remembered the LORD; My prayer reached you in your holy temple. Those who worship vain idols forsake their source of mercy. But I, with resounding praise, will sacrifice to you; What I have vowed I will pay: deliverance is from the LORD. Then the LORD commanded the fish to spew Jonah upon the shore."

One thing that came to my mind is where Jonah prayed...in the belly of a whale! How crazy is that really?! This shows us no place is amiss for prayer. AMEN? AMEN!
So, you can pray anytime, anywhere.....amidst the chaos of 3, 4 or 5 children....stuck in traffic.....on an airplane....in the public restroom....in a restaurant....in a bar....at a sports event.....at a concert.....in the car while your son is visiting the horse.....at the office....and even while on Facebook. Go for it!

To quote a commercial and cell phone ad.....Can you hear me now? Do you ever feel that your situation is so hopeless and entangled that God could never bail you out? The belly of the fish is a lot safer place than the depths of the sea. God is moving Jonah through various stages on the way back to following Him.

My thought: as long as you can still pray there is still hope.

Another lesson we can learn from Jonah's prayer is the God of the second chance hears our desperate cries despite the depths of our distress. GOD’S DELIVERANCE IS NOT CONSTRAINED BY THE DEPTHS OF OUR DISTRESS! I have been what I call "down deep in the pit" and every single time...God has delivered me out of it!

And I believe the Lord wants to train us to be merciful instead of judgmental and prideful. Do you agree?

Here are some questions to reflect on...if u are so inclined as to share your answers with me..I would love that! You can do so here...make a comment or to be more private..email me.

1. When have we felt disconnected from God? How have we seen Him still respond to our prayers and pleas for help?
2. How have we learned to be merciful to others from God showing us mercy?
3. What vain idols have we had to turn away from in order to faithfully maintain our loyalty to our God?
4. How are we encouraged by resting in the sovereignty of God – "Salvation is from the Lord"?

Oh my...my cardio class is in one hour.....wish me luck!

The Start of a New Week in SA

The Cedar pollen is awful! Paulie has a cough now too. I gave him some medicine before going off to school. It's also cloudy and hazy today...not pretty at all!

This past weekend was fun and busy - as usual. I got my hair cut--well, really trimmed and Tonie said now that my hair is longer - we can do some straight across bangs..but I can still sweep them to the side too. Works for me and I do love it!

We went with our friends Greg, Ginger and their boys to the AT&T Center to see the Freestyle Motorcross (FMX) event. We had fabulous seats! So great that when the woman was going to be shot out of the cannon..she came over and asked us to move up. Why I asked? Her reply...."if I miss the net and go over..I will land right here..maybe even on you!" That was all we needed to hear and an usher took us up 20 rows. This part of the night was amazing!!!! After she shot out, flew in the air and landed in the net safely...we were able to go back down to our seats.

recap:

The preliminaries started off well with Justin Stoltzfus putting together a nice run that included a solidly executed Kiss of Death. He set an early standard scoring an 85.7. Bustin’ loose next was Jason Rowe. He went big, but had a sketch or two during his run and it was reflected in his score as he was only able to post a 74.0. The third rider out was the rookie, Nick “six guns” Dunne and he had a flawless run that looked to have him in the finals with an 89.8. The final rider in the first set was Derek Burlew and he looked great. The spacious floor set up nice for him and he held onto a rock solid until he was darn near on the ramp. But his 88.7 would not hold up for a trip to the finals.

During our first break Geoff Aaron thrilled the crowd with an acrobatic display of trials riding. Showing us why he is the ten time national champion and what allows him to have such great results in Europe battling with the top names in his sport. AMAZING!!!

After intermission we had the incomparable Jennifer Schneider who puts the whoa, in whoa Nelly. The Cannonlady took flight and I was exhilarated with her stunt! We all were!

One of my favorite tricks is now the Captain Morgan....the pose from the bottle of 100 proof rum..you know right? This is Dunnes signature trick and it is fun to see. Go here to see examples of some of the stunts.

But the hero of the night was definitely Matt Buyten. Matt broke a back flip nac nac and a massive dead body to take home the hardware with his 93.3. Impressive!

And I wish we had a video of Paul's reaction to the whole night. It was great!! He hollered, cheered, clapped, jumped up and down, said things like, "oh my goodness" and "can I do that?" and "I want him to try that again." and "pass the popcorn, coke and cotton candy!"

Here he is after the event with his new FMX hat...it came with the cotton candy..ok?!

Sunday was a lazy day of playing with Paul, catching up with friends and family and talking to my niece Lauren. It was Lauren's 8th bday and when I asked her how 8 feels her reply was, "Aunt Susan, it feels pretty cool!" Sorry Tom and Alleson -- she is a lot like me! Since I cannot be around her too much - they live in Denver - nice to know she still picks things up from me. She had 7 friends over Fri night for her first sleepover and they stayed up until 2:30am. WOW -I was shocked! My brother must have filled them up with sugar! Will Paulie ever want a sleepover?!

Danny is now studying for the Series 24 Exam. He is a sales manager - over the financial advisors we have in credit unions all over TX and the western half of the US - and it is encouraged to have this license. So--he was at the library in the afternoon and then at the kitchen table (again) for a couple of hours in the evening. You have to give him credit......working for a bank for 16 1/2 years......rising up to the top....being laid off in Nov 2001 and then moving forward to his dream job. And he never once was down on himself..ok, well maybe once last Sept when he got the letter he missed passing the CFP by a lousy 8-10 questions. But what did he do....got right back to it and took the exam again in November. And we were just informed - he passed! WOOO HOO !! So see--if you know people who have been laid off - it WILL all work out..have faith and move forward..press on.....get keyed up.....no pity party!

I am headed to the gym shortly. My legs are not feeling so good today. I worked them out hard Sat morning and I think they hurt more today than yesterday. It's tough to walk! So, I will do cardio and arm and ab work. My marketing extraordinaire friend invited me to run in the Diploma Dash on Feb 21 at UTSA. I registered this morning. It is only a 5K..I used to do 7-8 of those each year with my friend Kara and her Mom when I was 11-14. However, we all know I am not close to that age anymore....... Julie said we could walk a little if we needed to. She and I are training for the half marathon in November..the Rock n Roll Event. And Nov will be here before you know it.

Tonight is our ACTS meeting. I am on music ministry. We are going to play a song at the beginning of the meeting to get the ladies calm and bring the Holy Spirit in and close. We all have such hectic lives that sometimes it is difficult to calm our bodies and minds. I hope the song Out of Darkness by David Kauffman will help my Sisters in Christ tonight get prepared for a great planning meeting! The retreat is April 2-5..but there is a lot to prepare. We want to make it so special for the 42 women who will be joining us.

Time to head to Spectrum. Have a good day and be kind to people!

The Road Less Traveled

I posted a great song to my FB profile by the fabulous George Strait. He of course lives here in SA - The Dominion, and his ranch is north of SA. Hi Norma! (his wife) Listen to this song.....The Road Less Traveled....really listen to the words and it will inspire you. And if it doesn't - then you are dead. And for that matter......listen to Run. I have not heard either of these songs in a while - but they are awesome and I am glad to have been reconnected to them today.

Speaking of being reconnected - what is up with Facebook? It's a reunion everyday! So fun and SO addicting! Or am I the only one who spends too much time on it?!

Let me tell you about the past 2 days and then I will write something to hopefully inspire you....... I know I was tired when I woke up. And I worked for 4 hours on a project I am doing for a nice businessman in SA. He is the one helping me break into St. Anthony Catholic School - he IS St. Anthony! I won't tell you his name..... I went to see Bride Wars at Northwoods..by myself. Danny is nice that way to allow me head out and do something I love. And I don't mind doing it alone - apparently, some people would never think of going to a movie alone?! Why not---there is NO talking during a movie....but making out is nice I suppose...if you are with the right person. :-)

As I was literally walking in the door--Danny was on the phone and looked panicked. Rhonda was on the phone upset. I have been helping her on the computer organizing all her digital pics and getting them off her hard drive. She had deleted a folder with several pictures accidentally...how did she get it back? Susan (oh and Mick) to the rescue. I immediately told her to go to her recycle bin...she could not find it. Then it hit me.......go to your desktop Rhonda...........uh, my sweet friend did not know where to find her desktop..or what is was......I then told her..close ALL your programs which are opened...she did..and I told her..look at those icons you and Terrence have on the desktop (which I think is wrong) - and look for the green arrow guys on a trash can....Ah ha--she found it! Find file..right click and click RESTORE! Praise God--Amen! Thanks Mick for your help too! But wait - then Mick and I suggested she clean out everything in her recycle bin -- I have a program that does it every week - she told me there was a TON of files b/c she had been busy since last week cleaning up her pc. She was not comfortable deleting the bin and wanted me to ask Mick.."why should I do this?" Now I won't get it exact..but this IM came onto my screen.........similar to how we take out our trash at home..why do we do it? Cause if we don't - the shit will stink!. Is that how it went down MJG?

Today started with taking pics of Paulie being silly before going to school. He is a hoot and a half! I then went to Rhonda's to start moving all our new folders to a CD so we can get it all off her hard drive. And people - we are talking about pics from 2004-present. If I had to guess.....thousands of images!!! I want to get her set up for from here on out--she can better manage all of this. :-) Love you Rhonda Murphy!

So---problems arose and we needed help. I called 3 people and damn--they were all busy--working. ??? Crapola----oh well. We had to wait. I then went to Nordstrom since I was nearby. I was on a mission to buy some new 4 inch heels. Found them! I used a gift card from Christmas. And the best part-----I have money left on the gift card! WOO HOO

Here are my new shoes - I think they are fabulous and I love them.

And yes--if you are wondering..not only can I walk masterfully in them...but I can dance too! I almost think 4 inch heels make me a better dancer!

I am about to make some dinner and then go get Paulie. It works well that his school is only 5 min away! I am headed to Spectrum at 6:30ish to work out! I didn't get it in this afternoon..too busy shopping I guess.

Matthew 5:16 says, "Let your light shine before others so that they may see your good works and glorify our Father in heaven." My reflection on this verse: Jesus empowers us to bring a life giving light to this world, a light that will help dispel the darkness around us. You may not always see your own spiritual aura, but it is there! You may not be able to judge your own light---but others can.

All For You

Good morning...I can say that b/c it is now 12:24am. Sitting here enjoying some wine and writing this entry.

So, the title of today's entry - should come as no surprise to those of you that know me well......it references music - 2 completely different songs and both are on my IPOD! And tonight I heard both...with one song in between. All For You by Janet Jackson and All For You by Big Daddy Weave.

A little taste of Janet Jackson's lyrics: Shakin' that thing Like I never did see Got a nice package alright Guess I'm gonna have to ride it tonight A ll my girls at the party Look at that body Shakin that thing Like you never did see Got a nice package all righ Hit it: 4, 3, 2, 1[Chorus:]All for you If you really want it All for you if you say you need it All for you if you gotta have it All for you make a move All for you

And now Big Daddy Weave's lyrics: will give my everything. I'll be a fool for You, Because I am in love with You. I wanna sing and shout. I wanna dance around.I wanna forget who I used to be And embrace Your truth. So when I sing and shout. And when I dance around. When I lay my pride down, It's all for You. It's all for You.

See how they differ--uh yeah! And Paul is definitely his Mother's child - b/c one of his favorite songs to dance to and shake it is All For You by Janet Jackson. Now, don't be calling CPS on me - I know - the lyrics are not quite right for him - but he gets the beat and has some great moves! I MUST get it on video soon and share it with you! He does like to perform for the camera......

And then there is this song - Shake Your Pom Pom by Missy Elliott...which as special meaning for me. JFK people probably can guess why! I am going to choreograph a dance number and teach it to other high school classmates so we can perform it at the next reunion..who's with me?!!! This song gets ya movin!!
A little of the lyrics.....
I see you got low
And you got plenty more to show, go
Shake it like a pom pom, like a pom pom
Shake it like a pom pom, like a pom pom
Go, like you tryna win a contest for sure
Oh, I'mma show you how to shake it
How the booty shake
Show you how to shake it
Let you see the booty shake

Tomorrow is 9:30 mass, Spectrum to work out and then Paul and I will do something while Danny is playing golf in the afternoon. I do miss playing..it's been since 2004! Too much $$$ for a babysitter for us both to play at the same time. And at 3, I meet with my care receiver. I haven't seen her in a few weeks......she has come a long way and her journey has been amazing! I wish I could share all about it --but it is all confidential....or as Tony, Mick, Barb and Colleen would type..COS!

I have my half birthday next week...yes, 39 1/2 is right around the corner...this coming Wed. Do you want to know my wishes? If so - let me know and I can provide them at no charge. :-)

To finish up for tonight - I leave you all with this.....

If you wanna live your life
Live it all the way and don't you waste it
Every feelin' every beat
Can be so very sweet you gotta taste it (mm-hm)
You gotta do it, (you gotta do it) you gotta do it your way
You gotta prove it (you gotta prove it)
You gotta mean what you say
You gotta do it (do it) you gotta do it your way
You gotta prove it (prove it)
You gotta mean what you say

Life's a party, make it hot
Dance don't ever stop, whatever rhythm
Every minute, every day
Take them all the way you gotta live 'em ('cause I'm-a live my life)
You gotta do it, (you gotta do it) you gotta do it your way
You gotta prove it (you gotta prove it)
You gotta mean what you say
You gotta do it (do it) you gotta do it your way
You gotta prove it (prove it)
You gotta mean what you say

One True God

Christian artist Mark Harris sings this very beautiful song - One True God. I just ran a quick errand after my walk and heard it on K-LOVE, and it inspired me to write an entry on my blog.

I know so many people who have a crushed spirit. I get it b/c many times during my life - I have had one too. My faith journey has been truly amazing and so many people have played an important part. I pray each day that I can help others on their faith journey and recognize that God holds us close and we need to turn to Him on a daily basis and not just when we are in trouble or have many worries. He alone is the One True God. Even through everything we all go through - He remains One True God. He carries all of our worries and forgives all of our sins. And He loves us no matter what. I learned this about 5 years ago and it changed me forever.

I am not ashamed to say that I have suffered with depression since oh, about age 13 or 14. It has been a constant battle and will probably continue to be a part of my life --and the life of my family and friends. I am blessed so many people support me and love me no matter what! April 2004 I had a plan to commit suicide. During a meeting with our couples' group one Sunday evening - an Angel tapped me on my shoulder and helped me to divulge my plan for the upcoming Thursday. Basically I learned that I had no self worth and it had been that way for at least 20 years. With the help of many resources - counselor, Danny, an ACTS retreat and a Stephen Minister - I won the battle and starting believing I am worth gold and God loves me no matter what. I also learned that me performance as a Mom, wife, employee did not equate with my self worth and the love God has for me. I wish everyone knew that and lived it!

So many people have a crushed spirit. Whether it is being alone, losing a job, or illness - people are more than ever asking - what now? IS there hope?! I say YES!
Proverbs 18:14 tells us “A man’s spirit sustains him in sickness, but a crushed spirit who can bear?” Or in the Living Bible it says “what hope is left?”

Each area of our lives requires that we are making deposits of success. Even tiny withdrawals with no replacement deposits will lead to bankruptcy in relationships, physically, spiritually, and socially as well as in jobs and finances. I know that in crisis the area of most pain gets most of our attention. But often it is by making extra deposits in other areas that a person can springboard back to success in even the most critical ones.

Try these things...even just one or two.

Seek out a Godly mentor. Much of the success of AA has been in having another person to call in the lowest times. Don’t isolate yourself. Maintain strong family and friend relationships.

Reduce TV watching and instead read or listen to inspirational material at least 2 hours daily.

Volunteer for a worthy cause. Helping someone else in need is a great way to ease the inward pain.

Forgive everyone in your life. Make peace with your past. Life is too short to waste time hating anyone.

At the end of each day, complete these two sentences:"Today I am thankful for......""Today my most significant accomplishment was......."

And I know this next one takes a leap of faith in many cases - Match Your Passion to your Work. I am doing just that - finally! I am headed back to teaching in the Catholic Schools and am so excited I cannot even begin to tell you.

Mercy Me has a song titled Bring the Rain. Listen to this and reflect. My spiritual mentor, David, once told me -- and I practice it daily - we need to praise God not only for our successes and good things, but also praise him for our worries and difficulties. I challenge you to do this....and let me know how it changes your spirit and faith. As you climb the praise ladder - keep praising God - even when you hit the dark clouds. Push your way through the dark clouds - keep praising Him and you WILL get through the dark clouds sooner versus later--and reach a beautiful sky with sun and maybe even a rainbow!

Shifting now - Happy Birthday to my high school classmate - Dean Gallagher! I wish you many blessings the upcoming year. Tell me, how does 40 feel brother? I will be there in July.......

I am meeting my Sister in Christ and good friend Rhonda (FB friend too) for lunch. We're going to PF Changs and then I am going back to her house to assist her with some computer and digital picture issues. Yes, Mick - I really am good at this stuff. I just had an off night recently.

Danny should be getting his letter from these people on whether or not he passed his CFP exam in November. On average - only about 52% pass the exam each time it is given - which is 3 times a year in the United States. I know he passed and when he can add those impressive initials after his name - he can charge more for his financial advising! Woo Hoo! Go Danny Go!

How Many Things Can One Person Take On...?

Well, if you're me - a lot! And your husband would say it's all too much SuSu!

Let's recap all the things going on in my life - beyond the usually wife, Mom and Cinderella duties........

1. Running for Queen of the Vine. Trying to raise money before the end of February so I can be the candidate to raise the most and be crowned for a Fiesta Event called A Taste of the Northside. I am planning on hosting a Texas Hold 'Em Poker Tournament on Sat., Feb 28 and my goal is to make $10,000. I need to get players, the food and drinks donated and the prizes - all donated. I need to get going on all this today! Shae at Brighton created the flier for the event....go
HERE (and click on blue link to the flier) to see it! Any people in SA who wish to help or attend - let me know!! I need much assistance!

2. We are involved in a Catholic Couples' Movement called Teams of Our Lady. We have our monthly team meeting this Sunday and we both still have to read the two chapters...one is on Emotional Intimacy and the other - Intellectual Intimacy. And we are planning and hosting an information meeting later this month at church. So I need to prepare for that too!

3. I have been asked to be on another Women's ACTS Team. We had our first meeting last Monday night. We'll meet every Monday night for about 10 weeks. The actual retreat is April 2-5. I have been on a team twice - the second time serving as the Spiritual Director. This time I will be involved with the music ministry. Although, I cannot sing (but do) and I do not play any instruments. Well, maybe the harmonica and a tambourine..... There is a great deal of planning that goes into each retreat. Please keep all of us (25 or so) in your prayers as we go along in this journey. Each retreat has a theme--chose by the directors. And a scripture verse..... This is ours: from Ephesians 5:14 "Wake up, sleeper, rise from the dead, and Christ will shine on you." In other words--hey, pay attention.....wake up.....allow Christ to enter your heart and shine on you--and then you can shine His light onto others. Our theme song is: Christ Be Our Light.

4. Oh and I am getting applications completed to become a substitute in a few Catholic high schools here in SA. So far--three are most interested. One school invited me to come next Friday to mass at 9:15am and then tour the school and visit with one of the administrators.

5. And I have been using some incredible products from a Wellness Company named AGEL. I am thinking of beginning to grow this business and share the products to help us all. If you check the site out - each day I take 2 of the products and often take 2 addl on additional days. EXO, UMI and often times FLX and FIT. I am going to talk to my parents about trying some of this to help their heart disease, pains and high blood pressure. This is all awesome stuff and let's face it...I think we all need to focus on preventing illness and help what currently ails us - b/c one day soon - it will be mighty $$$$ to cure anything that comes down the road. This is also why I have begun a new fitness program and eating lifestyle. And I am training for the Rock n Roll half marathon in November. So, I need to also work on my business plan.......

What am I missing......

6. Oh yes - working out/training 3-4 times a week....

I know I am still missing something..or two......

I leave you with this tonight..........
Be alert for circumstances that present tests of faithfulness and loyalty, and know that in the midst of trials and great tribulation that even if those around you are faithless, I remain faithful. I will not allow the enemy to wreak utter havoc, for I have placed a hedge of protection around you. These tests are not to bring destruction, but are to bring clarity and understanding that will help you see your own level of faithfulness and loyalty to others and to Me, says the Lord.
2 Corinthians 4:6-10 "For it is the God who commanded light to shine out of darkness, who has shone in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ. But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellence of the power may be of God and not of us. We are hard pressed on every side, yet not crushed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed--always carrying about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus, that the life of Jesus also may be manifested in our body."

Facing The Giants

Love this movie! I found it while flipping channels and was able to watch the second half. Watching this movie tonight comes at an important crossroads in my life. I am struggling with a few things and one is being unemployed and trying to have the faith and not worry that God will provide. I have many giants I face each day and it really is easier when I turn to God and trust Him. I have the soundtrack for this movie and need to add a few of the songs to my IPOD. If you can - go to ITUNES and search for "With You" by Mark Willard. Amazing song - and it speaks to my heart and can for you too. The lyrics are below...

Verse 1: You have been so good to me
How can I find the words to thank You?
Healer of broken hearts and broken dreams
Lord, I will never cease to praise You.

Chorus: With You, all things are possible. Like an eagle I can soar.
With You the giants fall. They rise no more.
With You I overcome when fear and faith collide. There’s nothing I can’t do.
Anything is possible with You.

Verse 2: I am constantly amazed
You are a God forever faithful.
As I look back on my history of grace, how could I be anything but grateful?

Chorus

Verse 3:No mountain is too high, there’s no valley that’s too deep
You’re calling me to walk by faith so I will take a Leap...take a Leap

Chorus x2
Anything, anything is possible with You
With You
It’s possible with You.


Here's to a year of growing closer to our sweet Jesus...Lord, be near to us as we seek to know You more and more... AMEN

Psalm 139

For the leader. A psalm of David. O LORD, you have probed me, you know me: you know when I sit and stand; you understand my thoughts from afar. My travels and my rest you mark; with all my ways you are familiar. Even before a word is on my tongue, LORD, you know it all.
5 Behind and before you encircle me and rest your hand upon me.
Such knowledge is beyond me, far too lofty for me to reach. Where can I hide from your spirit? From your presence, where can I flee? If I ascend to the heavens, you are there; if I lie down in Sheol, you are there too. If I fly with the wings of dawn and alight beyond the sea,
10 Even there your hand will guide me, your right hand hold me fast.
If I say, "Surely darkness shall hide me, and night shall be my light" --
Darkness is not dark for you, and night shines as the day. Darkness and light are but one. You formed my inmost being; you knit me in my mother's womb. I praise you, so wonderfully you made me; wonderful are your works! My very self you knew; my bones were not hidden from you, When I was being made in secret, fashioned as in the depths of the earth. Your eyes foresaw my actions; in your book all are written down; my days were shaped, before one came to be. How precious to me are your designs, O God; how vast the sum of them! Were I to count, they would outnumber the sands; to finish, I would need eternity.
19 If only you would destroy the wicked, O God, and the bloodthirsty would depart from me! Deceitfully they invoke your name; your foes swear faithless oaths. Do I not hate, LORD, those who hate you? Those who rise against you, do I not loathe? With fierce hatred I hate them, enemies I count as my own. Probe me, God, know my heart; try me, know my concerns.