Having fun in San Antonio

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

2009-05-20T14:25:00.008-05:00

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

2009-03-31T14:28:00.012-05:00

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

2009-03-06T10:37:00.002-06:00

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!

2009-02-22T21:48:00.002-06:00

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

2009-02-11T12:54:00.007-06:00

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?

2009-02-04T12:54:00.002-06:00

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

2009-01-28T07:26:00.003-06:00

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

2009-01-26T12:14:00.003-06:00

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

2009-01-22T16:37:00.004-06:00

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

2009-01-18T00:23:00.002-06:00

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

2009-01-13T10:08:00.002-06:00

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...?

2009-01-09T18:58:00.002-06:00

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

2009-01-02T22:53:00.003-06:00

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.

"Ok, that's it!"....

2008-12-31T15:08:00.010-06:00

said Paulie every time my Mom's grandfather clock did its thing. It chimed on the hour and then every 15 minutes. He really got excited on the hour when he could count......sometimes we let him stay up until 9pm so he could hear the clock and count...and then off to bed.

We had a wonderful time in Michigan over Christmas. Our flight to Detroit was good and of course it was snowing and the roads were icy as we made our way across Michigan to my Mom and Wayne's house. A four hour drive was a tense 6 1/2 hour drive and we saw oh about 20 cars off the side of the road and many accidents. Needless to say, we were relieved and grateful when we arrived at Crystal Mountain. People were skiing and Paul was thrilled to see all the snow and the mountains. He wanted to go straight to the top--that's my boy--adventurous and a risk taker!

The beautiful trees with snow right next to my Mom's house - so pretty!

Other pictures from our trip are posted below....... Mom and Wayne are fun to be around. We played pinochle, domino's, ping pong, darts, ate cookies, watched TV, went for a surrey ride in the snow, played in the snow, went for chilly walks, made snow angels (well, I did) and enjoyed being together! Crystal Mountain is so pretty in the winter. Much different than our visit in May. Mom and Wayne live on the 3rd hole green of one of the golf courses - and now it is covered with snow of course. They have had about 70 inches of snow so far and it isn't even January! They also live in the woods - well, the resort is in the woods. Paul LOVED the snow and he keeps asking me - "where is the snow?" Uh son - we don't have snow in San Antonio. Especially when it is 70 degrees on Dec 31!

Santa found Paul in Michigan and he was thrilled with his gifts. Santa knows Paulie likes music, singing and dancing - so he brought him a harmonica. And I must say - he is pretty good! Santa also brought him the Peter Pan DVD and a couple of cars - a black Lamborghini and a red Porsche! His cousin Lauren in Denver sent him a VTECH V- Motion system and a game! Mom had to ship it and it should arrive in SA by Saturday! I personally cannot wait to play! We don't have any other play system - and we won't for a while.

The surrey ride was a memorable event! The Belgium horses were so pretty. We had to bundle up of course since the ride was at night - in the woods - in northern MI - in December! Mom and Wayne have done it before so they knew not to sit right behind the horses - they tend to pass gas. Oh did they ever! Even though we were not right behind the horses - we still were blessed to smell the horrid farts. It was hilarious to see and hear the kids up front - they were disgusted and pleaded with their parents to switch seats!

We woke at 5am Monday morning to drive back to Detroit and catch our flight. This time we had clear roads and no snowy weather. It was rather pleasant. We even had some extra time, so I took Danny and Paul on a 20 min tour of Ann Arbor, MI. M GO BLUE!! Paul was SO READY to be home! I don't know how many times during the day he said - let's go to Paul's house..pleeeeease! We made it back to SA and by the time we picked up Miss Oreo, it was 5pm.

I thought during our drive from Detroit to my Mom's on Dec 23 that we would NEVER do this again in the winter - go to MI that is. But, I don't feel that way now. It was a blast and it really felt like Christmas in the WinterWonderland at Crystal Mountain. Thank you Mom and Wayne!

Wayne and Paul walking back from cleaning off the satellite dish - a lot of SNOW!

Mom and Wayne's backyard - just beyond the trees is the golf green - covered with snow!

Danny fell coming back around the house in the deep snow - poor thing. I think he fell a few times while we were there!

The surrey ride! Yes, it was snowing at the time and we loved it!

Early Christmas

2008-12-21T21:09:00.011-06:00

Today was a fun day! We gathered at the home of Craig and Denise for our annual Teams of Our Lady party. All the kids come too..we eat, drink, laugh and exchange gifts. This year was extra special b/c Craig and Denise have adopted 3 girls earlier this year. Ages, 7, 5 and 3! Melissa and Jesse added another boy to their family. So today we had 12 kids under the age of 7 all having fun. Mr. Craig has a trampoline and he helped them take turns jumping. You should have heard and seen the fun. Well, you can see some of the fun..check out these pictures.......
And those who live in SA - it was chilly and windy today. Ok, for all you people not in SA...I think our wind chill was under 40 today which is cold for us! I know those of you in STL are somewhere around 0..sorry! I don't mind the cold - but the wind was fierce this afternoon!

Even though Paulie was so tired after all that...we had an early Christmas back at our home around 4:30. Dad and Jean go crazy with the amount of gifts for Paul..and for us too. Paul had a blast and really enjoyed opening presents. His comments and noises are priceless. Here are few pictures......and of course, Paul is now fast asleep. I am headed there at 10pm. Peace out peeps!

Susan's To Do List for Saturday

2008-12-19T20:50:00.002-06:00

1. Wake up
2. 30 min prayer/silent time
3. HEB (grocery store for those non Texans)
4. Dig out my scarf, ski hat and gloves
5. Keep working on getting things ready for our MI trip.
6. Exercise
7. Go to Fatso's Sports Bar to watch my Kansas boys play Temple.
8. Take Paul to see Santa at The Quarry.
9. Charge up camcorder for MI.
10. Go to Best Buy to purchase camera bag and a car charger for Paul's portable DVD player.
11. Call a few people.
12. Laundry
13. Snuggle with my boys...and Oreo too!
14. Call Linda.

Book Club for Divas

2008-12-16T10:23:00.005-06:00

Howdy ya'll!

That's my best southern hello and how are you........

I got up at 6:30 today to head to my 7:30 dr appt. My dermatologist is so great and so sweet. I went for my annual checkup. Melanoma runs in my family and I have had one back in 1993. All looks good, except for those icky brown spots on my face which I hate. She froze a few of them and so now I will have a puffy red mark and scab for about a week. I then treated myself to a Starbucks with the $5 my Step Dad sent me (a bet I won) for the annual Kansas-Mizzou football game - KU won and so I win $5! Yippy skippy!

Last Thursday night was my monthly book club meeting at Michelle's house. She has a beautiful home in Sendero Ranch - but it is on the market! We gathered at 7:15 for drinks, snacks, prayer and fellowship. Before we adjourn to the living area to discuss the book, we go around and each gal spends 5 minutes or so updating everyone and asking for any special intentions. This time we had a book exchange it was fun! We then discussed this month's book. 90 Minutes in Heaven. We all agreed - it all could have been said in 2 chapters and was not written very well. But it was quick and interesting to read about his spiritual account of Heaven. Who knows..... Here are some pics of the lovely gals...all so sweet and Godly! I am blessed to be a part of this group. Thanks Yvonne for inviting me! MOPS Mommies are wonderful! Our book for January is The Shack by William Young. I agreed to be the discussion leader! Oh my goodness.....

I think tonight we might take Paul and go drive through Windcrest to see all the lights. Paul will be so into them this year - it should be sweet and lots of fun!

“If you look at the stock market, business activity, or budget deficits, things are dark. But if you consider our capacities and opportunities, our passion and vision, the outlook is bright.” -- Bill Gates in a recent speech at The George Washington University

“Finding the right work is like discovering your own soul in the world.” -- Thomas Moore

Pressing On.....

2008-12-14T14:50:00.007-06:00

It has been 13 days since my last post - busy I guess. The Facebook thing has been addicting - catching up with folks and playing games......

I lost my job somewhat unexpectedly and am trying to stay positive. What does God have in store for me...????

I saw Twilight with my friend Gloria. We both loved the movie and cannot wait for 2010 when the second movie comes out!

Paul is doing great! I will post some pictures of the little man later today when he is napping - which should be soon! Uh, Danny takes his time when it's time to put him down....oh well.

I have all my shopping done and we are really looking forward to Christmas. Paul is in love with all the decorations, lights, tree, ornaments and Christmas movies like Polar Express, The Grinch and Rudolph. It is so sweet to see his enthusiasm! We're taking him to see Santa this week at The Quarry. They have a neat little Santa house and it never seems to be very busy.

I became very sick yesterday and had to make a trip to the ER last night around 5:30. Almost six hours later and bloodwork and and IV with medicine and fluids, I was back home. I am still weak today, but I do believe on the road to recovery!

We had Danny's Christmas party at La Hacienda a week ago and it was very nice. Thank you to Kelly for paying and to Angela for her planning. His co workers all are great!

I have a lot planned for the week. I am going to complete my application for the Archdiocese so I can start subbing January in the SA Catholic schools. I also have some other ideas up my sleeve. Please pray for peace and comfort as I still struggle with losing my job and the way it all went down! And I know that God will open another door and it will be even better! Right?!

I am feeling woozy and need to go lie down. Here are a few recent pics of Paul.

Peace out-
Susan

Twenty One Things That Have Happened Since My Last Entry.....

2008-12-01T21:58:00.003-06:00

in no particular order....

1. Danny took his CFP exam on Nov 21 and 22.

2. I attended the Orphan's Ticket Home gala on Nov 21 - it was wonderful! Did you know there are 143,000,000 orphans in the world!

3. We bought a 22" LG TV for our bedroom.

4. I became addicted to Facebook; especially Word Challenge and Geo Challenge!

5. We took Paul to see Madagascar 2- and we all loved it!

6. Attended an ACTS sister's wedding - performed by the same priest who married us!

7. Got to experience/treat our doggie Oreo who had fleas!

8. Did a lot of shopping.....surprise surprise!

9. Took Paul to a lab where they drew 7 tubes of blood - ordered by the Pediatric Neurologist.

10. Went to the Murphy's for our monthly Teams of Our Lady Meeting - it was wonderful!

11. Cleaned out my car and got is washed - inside and out! It still looks pretty good!

12. Put up our Christmas tree.

13. Welcomed my Dad and Jean for Thanksgiving.

14. Ate Thanksgiving dinner at Cracker Barrel - it was VERY good and no dishes!

15. Started reading The Shack - for my January book club - awesome Christian Mamas.

16. Worked my company's booth at the Rock n Roll Expo - saw many people and had fun!

17. Bought these really cute drink coasters at the Expo for my friend Jennifer - they say:
"I run to drink wine"

18. Bought tickets for the three of us to attend some Freestyle Motorcross event in January
with some co workers (and their 2 little boys) - although not sure what we're going to see.....

19. Got my haircut...a little shorter!

20. Added a lot of new friends on Facebook.

21. Prayed a lot for the following: guidance, peace, healing, safety, grace, wisdom, comfort.

What Up Dawg?!

2008-11-17T16:27:00.002-06:00

My friend Julie (Marketing Exec Extraordinaire) always says this to me as I make my way to the 11th floor at work. I sometimes reply--"I came for a treat!" Yeah, we know--we're silly!

Last week flew by. Little man Paul was under the weather for a few days..and I think I finally just about got rid of whatever I had for 3 weeks! Thursday night was book club at Jennifer's house. Again, so great to spend time with other Christian Mommies! We discussed our book - Captivating. Jennifer has actually been to the Captivating Retreat in CO and told us all about it. It would be wonderful to be able to go sometime. I bet a lot of healing takes place in those few days. Similar to an ACTS retreat we have here in Texas. One has to apply and not all folks get in the first time they apply. She applied 3 times!

Our next book for Dec is 90 Minutes in Heaven. But the book and discussion I am really looking forward to is our January meeting...The Shack by William Young. Has anyone read this book? Someone told me - If you want an emotionally moving parable which hammers home the importance of a personal relationship with God, then buy and read--and be touched by--The Shack. The book is about: Mac is a grief-stricken father in mid-life about to have an extraordinary experience with God. His great sadness began four years ago on a weekend camping trip, when his 6-year-old daughter, Missy, was murdered. What he couldn't know then, but is about to learn, was God's purpose for Missy's death. Roger Mueller's clear, gentle voice characterizes Mac's family with high-spirited joy and laughter. His portrayal of Missy's animated excitement makes her especially believable. His polished performance of grief-stricken Mac brings tears. With empathy and sensitivity, Mueller captures the mysterious voices of those who have invited him to the now abandoned, yet transformed, cabin in the wilderness. This compelling fantasy explores themes of love, loss, and blame.

Friday and Saturday I worked our company's booth at the Rock N Roll Marathon Expo at the Alamodome. San Antonio hosted its first one on Sunday. The winner of the marathon was a gentleman from Kenya. Really?! Seriously? Kenya? Uh YES--those Kenyans can RUN!!!!!

Saturday night I went to an ACTS sister's wedding. The same priest who married Danny and I - joined her and Sam in union. It was lovely and oh so very special for me to be a part of their very special day. I will post a picture of the bride I took before the ceremony. Maile would be proud of how I positioned her.....joyfully and casually!

We took Paul to see Madagascar II Sunday afternoon. He loved it--as did we! Cute flick. Paul loves the first one. We watch it all the time! I think I know all the lines......

Tonight I have an ACTS get together at La Hacienda. I am looking forward to seeing all my sisters! I am going for a little while--but I am very tired and need to get up early tomorrow and exercise. Danny is staying home this week to study for his CFP exam. He takes it this Fri and Sat. I cannot wait until it's over..again! Then we wait 8 weeks for the results--UGH!

My Dad and Jean are coming next week for Thanksgiving. I am seriously thinking of going out to eat. No prep work and no dishes! Everyone seems to be ok with the idea..so, we'll see.

I need votes fellow bloggers, family and friends. I am running for Queen of the Vine for a Fiesta Event in April. All the proceeds go to the nonprofit Brighton. They are the group that helped us with Paul for a year with occupational and speech therapy and he attends their school. Go to www.brightonsa.org and click the tab where it says..EVENTS..then Queen of the Vine. VOTE! Every dollar raised is a vote for me! Paul and his friends appreciate it! Below my picture is the reason I am doing this. And yes, it is a lot of work. I am planning a poker tournament night for February 28. Tickets are $100 to play and $45 to come and be a spectator. I will provide drinks, food, music and prizes. I hope to raise $10,000 that night! I will post my flier for the event once I have it created. It will definitely include a picture of Paul!

I am off to rest before my little event tonight. Ya'll have a great week!

Happy Birthday Ran!

2008-11-10T16:23:00.002-06:00

Earlier this afternoon I talked to one of my best friends - Tish. She and I met when I taught at Bishop Carroll in Wichita, KS. Tish is also Paul's Godmother and a faithful servant. Her hubby's birthday is today - Happy Birthday Ran! So, are you 51? 52? I have lost track..... Tish and Ran have 2 children - Zach and Ariann. And I cannot believe how grown up they both are! I want one of them to come to the University of Texas for school and play their sport! I love South Texas!

I have a meeting at 6pm and no sitter. Danny is on his way home from Dallas. So, Paul will be staying at Brighton (with his Mama) for my QOTV meeting. It shouldn't be more than 45 min. I am going to plan my poker night--fundraising - February 28! The cost will be $100 per person and I will provide food, drinks and fabulous prizes! I really wanted to have one of the SPURS come too - some of them dabble in poker -- but they will be travelling! March 7 would have worked great for a Spur or two to be at my event - but we have to have all our fundraising completed by March 1!

I read one more chapter of my book - Captivating--Unveiling the Mystery of a Woman's Soul. We have book club this Thurs night. I really want to finish the book beforehand. I think I have about 175 pages to go....we'll see. Have any of you ever thought of this - I had not. Certainly some points to consider and reflect on.......
Satan fell because of his beauty. Now his heart for revenge is to assault beauty. And he really hates Eve. Because she is captivating, glorious and he cannot be. She embodies the glory of God. And maybe the Evil One hates Eve because she gives life. Women give birth..women nourish life.
Eve incarnates the Beauty of God and she gives life to the world. Satan's bitter heart cannot bear it. He assaults her with special hatred. History shows us this too - think about it! Women uniquely carry the glory of God to the world. We are hated by Satan because of our beauty and power.
Genesis 3:20 says, "Adam named his wife Eve,because she would become the mother of all the living." Eve means "life" or "life producer."

Chapter six starts out with some Van Morrison lyrics...

Down those old ancient streets,

Down those old ancient roads,

Baby there together we must go,

Till we get the healing done.

Peace out peeps!

The Power of Crisis

2008-11-08T16:38:00.008-06:00

Does anyone feel in crisis mode these days? If not now--I am certain at some point in your life you have felt in a crisis. Do you know Anthony Robbins? Back in 1992 or so I loved reading his book and listening to his LIVE WITH PASSION tapes. He has now launched a site called The Power of Crisis, --about real people overcoming and transforming challenges. Check it out!

I took Paul to the WildLife Ranch this morning. We had a blast. Here are some of my favorite shots of the day. He is napping now and I should be doing some cleaning....and not hangin on my puter....oh well!

Queen of the Vine

2008-11-02T11:07:00.003-06:00

Happy Sunday Peeps!

Danny and Paul went to Comanche Park to walk, run and play. I am doing laundry, cleaning and now taking some time to relax and do my therapy -- writing a blog entry. I spent some time earlier reading a few of the blogs I frequent. Go here, here, here and here and here and here if you wish to be inspired, laugh and enjoy other marvelous women!

Beginning last September, we have been affiliated with a local nonprofit named Brighton. Paul was a part of their ECI Program for 10 months and made great development strides with the help of several wonderful therapists! And when I went back to work in February of this year, there was no question where Paul would spend each day - Bright Beginnings Pre School. They had a spot for him in January and it has been smooth sailing ever since! His teachers love and care for him so much! We are ever so thankful for them and the Brighton staff. He has flourished into a bright, caring and very silly little man.

One of SA's Fiesta Events is called Taste of the Northside. Like all other Fiesta Events - there is royalty to "officiate" the event. All the proceeds from this event benefit Brighton. Each year, three ladies campaign (raise money) to be crowned QUEEN OF THE VINE. So, this year--I am one of those gals. The campaign began in September and runs through March 1. The other 2 gals are really sweet and I know will do a fantastic job with raising money and awareness for Brighton. They are - the talented KABB anchor - Cynthia Lee and a former Brighton employee and current NISD teacher - Gina Monetmayor! All three of us took part in the Brighton Family Festival yesterday at Brackenridge Park. It was s fun time! If you live in SA, email me and ask me what you can do to help my efforts. You can also visit this site - read my bio and donate online. Every $1 raised = 1 vote! You can also mail Brighton a check - just be sure to reference Susan Niño so I get the points! Send it to the attention of: Holly Grogan. Brighton's address is: 14207 Higgins, San Antonio, TX 78217.

I mentioned this in an earlier entry - but I am a part of a new book club with other Christian Moms. I love it and them! The time I spend with these gals is EXACTLY what I have been needing the past 9 months! Thank you God for bringing me back to them! For our Nov meeting, we are reading Captivating - Unveiling the Mystery of a Woman's Soul. I read the first three Chapters yesterday - and the only reason I put it down was our company arrived from Houston. After I complete this entry - I hope to read 2 or 3 more Chapters. I do recommend this to all women. It is glorious and reflective. Here are some thoughts and ideas shared and discussed so far....

Women = Holy Ground

From Psalm 45:11 - "The King is enthralled by your beauty."

We don't just have the desire for an outward beauty, but more -- a desire to be captivating in the depths of who you are.

Women are the handiwork of God in music and laughter....Her soul is alive and we are drawn to her. (this is what we should want other people to say about us)

I don't know about you -- but I desire beauty that can be seen; beauty that can be felt; beauty that affects others; a beauty all our own to unveil!

Do you feel that you simply getting by? I say--make a commitment to change! You must be willing to embark on a great adventure - it will take effort! But I think in the end - it will be worth it! You can think of it this way - a journey of the heart. Become the woman God had in mind when he made Eve...and then he made you - Glorious, powerful and captivating!

What is your design as a woman? Have you ever thought of it this way - the Eve is the crown of creation -His finishing touch? The pièce de rèsistance?

Beauty invites, inspires, comforts, is transcendent and is the essence of God. These ideals are the exact reason I made a conscious decision to seek out women who have inner beauty and truly love the Lord. Where negativity, rudeness, insensitivity and unselfish (and not self centered behavior) are all basically not found! I challenge you to seek out these women in your life. And if you hang spend time with those who are not inviting, comforting, inspiring and kind --be careful - they will bring you down.

Every woman has a beauty to unveil -- but will they?

Let's Give Paul Niño - Lead Singer of Toddler Tunes...a Warm Welcome!

2008-11-02T08:56:00.003-06:00

The one and only - ROCK STAR PAUL...or as some people called him on Halloween - ELVIS!

Extreme Weather

2008-10-30T15:25:00.007-05:00

I am home sick today. I have been ill for over a week, and just when I thought I was finally getting over whatever I had, I got worse..much worse. I am stubborn and was going into work today around 10:30, but I had a fever at 9am and decided....better stay home. I just woke from a 2 hour nap. I have been drinking lots of water and taking the appropriate drugs.

It's no wonder people in San Antonio are sick lately. The temps have been up and down - all in the same day. When I lived in Kansas we would often say..."if you don't the weather right now...wait 4 hours!" The saying has been suitable for SA the eleven years I have lived here.

Paul had to wear red today. Firefighters were visiting his school this morning. EMS folks were there yesterday and I think Police officers are going one day next week. Paul really does look marvelous in red..so he has several red shirts. But guess what? At 7:40 this morning I realized they were all dirty! So, I grabbed a few and ran to the washing machine. Only a 4 minute cycle was chosen and I thought - cool....one will be ready by 8:30 when Danny takes him. Uh, no. Danny was not too happy at first - but when I about cried and apologized for not being better prepared...he was quiet. One of the red shirts was ready to wear at 8:42. Off they went....

Here are a few pics of Paul wearing red over the past 3 years.

We took Paul to see Dr. Rotenberg yesterday. He is a pediatric neurologist and he was fabulous and very nice and knowledgeable--thank goodness. I will post another time about the appointment and his thoughts. I am taking Paul in for more blood work and back to see Dr. Rotenberg next Wed afternoon for development exams.

Paul is going to be a Rock Star for Halloween. We are taking him to the ZOO BOO from 6-9pm. I know we will all have fun. I only hope I feel much better tomorrow.

I am beginning to read a new book for my book club. Our next meeting is Nov 13 and so I better get crack a lackin! The book is Captivating - Unveiling the Mysteries of a Woman's Soul.

Dear Lord...

2008-10-26T14:36:00.002-05:00

help me to follow the path that is mine alone. AMEN

Jesus could have stayed very busy as a carpenter or even as someone who could turn stones into bread out in the wilderness. However, he gave up the mundane in order to follow the path was was his alone.

Where has October gone?

2008-10-26T12:34:00.002-05:00

Good afternoon!

So much to write about from this week. It was a pretty good week at work. Although, I really believe my true calling/passion is to develop and motivate people. Help them to be successful in both their personal and professional life. I landed a HUGE account for my agency and was thrilled. I am not working on the next BIG account

Paul's NEISD Speech Pathologist, Anne, wrote that Paul's speech has really developed since the end of August. She almost seems really impressed and amazed that a child has made such great strides in less than 2 months. Anne sees Paul at Brighton two times a week for 30 min each visit. He also seems to be able to control his emotions better..especially when he is upset or unsure about something. He is such a SILLY boy. Everyday this week the teachers would say..Paul can make everyone laugh when there is a tense moment or they are all just sitting around the table doing a fun activity. He comes by it naturally..... Now, I was NEVER the class clown and his teachers assure me - they believe he is simply trying to make everyday fun for all of them. So, I guess one would call him the pre school entertainer?!

Lots of birthdays this month.......sweet little Logan would have turned one year old on October 16. Sadly, he died of SIDS on June 5. And Logan's Mommy and Aunt Julie (twins) turned 41 on October 19. Mackenzie turned 3. Letty turned 39. Zach turned 17. My friend Larry turned 60 something on October 24 and my good friend Lori turns 41 on October 30. There are many more....but I don't wish to bore you with dates.

I have been going through clothes, toys and baby items. My sister in law comes to SA next Sat is due in March. They got rid of everything when they moved into their new home and then...well, sex happened! I am also taking some items to a new resale shop near my home. I have many toys and clothes they are basically brand new. The money I get for those items will go into Paul's 529 Plan.

Last Saturday was a baby shower for a lovely young gal on my team..Nicole. She is expecting her first child..a boy..on December 25. She got a lot of great things from people we work with. I think she said she has 2 more showers..but there can't be much left for her to get. Well, diapers, bottles and clothes for when Seth is older would all be good!

Yesterday was the 2nd Annual Spurs Hope & Possibility 5K Run/Walk. Coach Popovich began this event last year. he does much to support all my efforts in the community that I felt I needed to support this. So, I volunteered from 7am - 12 noon. I mostly worked the VIP Brunch Registration. Pop even ran, and as he was coming towards the brunch area, I think he was startled to see me. "What are you doing here?" he asked. I told him he does so much for me -- I wanted to help him and the SPURS Foundation. He wanted to give me a hug and then said.."I am all wet (sweaty) and man was he ever. But we hugged anyway. And his beard looked better than the last time I saw it. The purpose of the event: Fitness is a primary concern for San Antonio and the Spurs Foundation is continuing its commitment to recreation, fitness and education in the city. This 5k idea, first brought to San Antonio by President of Spurs Basketball and Head Coach Gregg Popovich who saw it in NYC, will capitalize on the success of last year’s run/walk by allowing so many more fans to experience this fun event. The Spurs team, Silver Dancers, Coyote and more will all be participating in this exciting outdoor event. There is something for everyone including a one mile fun run for kids of all ages, a finish line festival inclusive of post-run snacks, music, and activities. For those who support this event at a higher donor level, an appreciation VIP Brunch will be held.

The Story of Hope & PossibilityTrisha Meili, known to the world as The Central Park Jogger, revealed her amazing story of survival and recovery in her 2003 best-selling memoir I AM THE CENTRAL PARK JOGGER: A Story of Hope and Possibility. (Meili, an avid runner, was brutally attacked in NY Central Park in 1989. She was discovered near death and not expected to survive.) That same year, the Achilles Track Club produced its first Hope & Possibility race in Central Park to honor Trisha Meili and her story about the capacity of the human body and spirit to heal. In 2007, the Spurs Foundation teamed up with the national Achilles chapter to host the inaugural Hope & Possibility run/walk in the Alamo City. The race is to celebrate the human spirit and bring the disabled and able-bodied communities together.

Danny and I have been sick and today Danny feels pretty awful. We are supposed to go to a co-worker's church festival today from 4-7. Pony rides and all! I might take Paul by myself. We'll see. Danny and Paul are about to take a nap. And I am going to make some calls and do some magazine reading.

Have a hopeful, joyful, peaceful week!

Glorious Day

2008-10-19T17:57:00.002-05:00

Today has been simply marvelous! I slept in this morning..9am! Paul and I went for a morning walk....played with the bat and ball...and played chase in the backyard and finished off the morning with swinging, climbing and sliding on our play set. Then I headed to The Woodhouse Day Spa for an afternoon of pampering. Danny and Paul bought me a spa gift package for Mother's Day and it was time to use it.

For starters...an organic peel facial with April. It was divine..especially the part when she said, "you don't have any wrinkles!" She sounded a little surprised since I am 39...but hey, instead of wrinkles. I have redness and brown spots that have appeared the past few years. It was so wonderful lying on the warmed bed..with warming slippers on. Heavenly..... Next, two young gals got me from the "tea room" to pamper me some more with a peppermint sea scrub pedicure and a spritzer manicure. They carry my GLO makeup and I needed some of the hydrating mist. I also bought some cleanser and cream for my face. And the whole day I have been thinking.....to be more peaceful, joyful and hopeful. I read this scripture verse this morning and God's Word really spoke to me...as though He knew I really needed this! Duh--of course He knows!!!!

From John, Chapter 16..."Behold, the hour is coming and has arrived when each of you will be scattered to his own home and you will leave me alone. But I am not alone, because the Father is with me. I have told you this so that you might have peace in me. In the world you will have trouble, but take courage, I have conquered the world."

My Dad and Jean are coming for the Thanksgiving holiday. And we are going to Northern MI for Christmas to be with my Mom and Wayne. Ya know.....the holidays will be here before we know it!

Paul is going to be a rock star for Halloween. We're taking him to the ZOO BOO and I know we will have a blast! Non-scary--for Danny and Paul and lots of activities such as face painting, trick-or-treating, games and music. Everyone is encouraged to wear costumes and kids can participate in the costume contest. The zoo is our favorite place to go!

I must finish up a couple of chores before I settle down for the night. Back to work tomorrow....another day...another dollar. :-)

Please keep Stacy and Spencer in your prayers. Their little baby was born on Oct 7 and he lived 16 minutes. While they knew it was going to happen --it is still a horrific tragedy. Her blog entry today has a sweet video to honor Isaac.

Can Anyone Say "Give Me a Break?!"

2008-10-14T17:10:00.003-05:00

UGH--people are nuts! What is the deal about having big ego's and talking to someone like they don't have feelings or know more than you really do...and they cannot grasp the concept that the world does not revolve around them...and why do others perpetuate that? Come on.....no one is #1 in everyone's eyes...hear me..NOT you...or you..or you...but JESUS--yes..got it?! Gosh I wish some people would step back and reflect on their perspective and skills..or lack there of. And realize not everything is about you..sometimes it's about being a good person and doing the right thing....I know--I am rambling....

On a much BRIGHTER note--we had a most amazing weekend in Corpus with our Teams of Our Lady Team. Many thanks to Melissa, Jesse, Vicki, George, Philip, Jena, Denise, Craig, Rhonda and Terrence. We love you so much! We stayed at this wonderful B&B - you MUST stay there and tell Tracey I sent you! She is the innkeeper and so sweet and a great cook! After a big breakfast--she serves dessert---seriously! Sat morning it was peach cobbler with ice cream. Sunday morning it was ice cream with caramel and buñuelos--yummy!

My sweet church and work friend Nora kept Paul all weekend. She has two sweet boys--John and Rudy. They had a blast together and I guess Rudy and John are asking .."when does Paul come back and hang with us?" Here is a pic I took of them when we picked Paul up on Sunday. He was pooped and I think ready to be with his Mama and Daddy.

October 16 would have been Logan's first birthday. I know it will be a tough day for my sweet friends Debra and John. Please keep them in your prayers. My heart still aches and I think Thursday will be an emotional day for me too.

I have been listening to The Divine Mercy Chaplet in my car twice a day and loving it so much! God's mercy is awesome and this version of praying the rosary is incredible and lovely. Even if you are not Catholic--the message of this is for all of us.....listen and be still. I need more peace in my heart.....do you too? God's mercy is beautiful. Trust in Jesus.

Morons - why would ANY American want a man who will not place his hand over his heart to honor this country's past, present and future and show ANY

2008-10-07T21:08:00.004-05:00

sign of Patriotism???!! Aside from the issues and plans for this country -- why isn't that a big deal to all the Barack supporters?? Our Country's US FLAG CODE says.......During a rendition of the national anthem— (1) when the flag is displayed— (A) all present except those in uniform should stand at attention facing the flag with the right hand over the heart; (B) men not in uniform should remove their headdress with their right hand and hold the headdress at the left shoulder, the hand being over the heart; Seriously -- do people know the Constitution and the history -- you want the Commander in Chief of the USA to purposely NOT show reverence when our National Anthem is played??!!! I really do not grasp that one bit!!! The terrorists are hoping he is elected and then they can really take us down.....

Can ANYONE enlighten me? And you mean to tell me..the SAME pastor who a while back....Barack said was HIS Spiritual Mentor for 20 years...and Barack attended his church for 20 years....Barack and Michelle NEVER heard that moron Pastor Wright rantings like we all heard and now know?! Come on....are people really that stupid?? And remember this...Barack condemned Imus when he made those remarks about the black female athlete..but THEN did not condemn Pastor Wright for making those atrocious remarks? Do you need a refresher as to what the Pastor said??!! Obama said....YES he did..that Pastor Wright is his sounding board... My opinion.......This Pastor is a hater. Obama has attended over 800 sermons. ....and not JUST be association people.......use common sense here! Why does it not piss off everyone in this country that Pastor Wright said..."we deserve what we got. We "rich, white peeeeople" deserve to be blown up on 9/11." HELL--he can't even use the right verb tense!!!

And also---did you NOT hear when Michelle Obama stood tall at a podium and stated...I HAVE NEVER BEEN PROUD OF THIS COUNTRY.until now.......that my husband is running for President. SHIT lady -- then why did you stay in America all these years???!!!! UGH!! And please....she meant exactly that!!!! She is an angry woman...WATCH OUT USA! WHY WHY WHY is anyone really thinking all of that is ok? Again -- I am not talking politics or bills or taxes..or spending..or people who think the govt owes them.....blah blah blah.......

Philippians CH 3 says, "Beware of the dogs! Beware of the evil workers! Beware of the mutilation!"

Odds & Ends

2008-10-04T23:41:00.009-05:00

Hola!

This was another busy and very productive week. I had a couple of really nice meetings where I was able to present proposals to some VIP folks. I will find out next week if I get both accounts---I sure as hell hope so!

Danny is studying for the CFP exam - Nov 21 and Nov 22 are the exam dates. He registered yesterday and actually - is at the kitchen table as I type this entry studying his heart out!

Paul loves music and he loves to dance. Our new thing - being here in the office -- me pulling up ITUNES and playing a selection of Paul' favorites to rock out to. Really...seriously.....these are his new favorite tunes and he asks specifically for them now..

VELCRO FLY by ZZ TOP

ALL FOR YOU by Janet Jackson

MAMBO #5

THE KID IS HOT TONITE by Loverboy

JESSE'S GIRL by Rick Springfield

WE ARE FAMILY by Sister Sledge

Here are some pics I took of Paulie rockin out this week....

Pardon our messy office.....stuff stacked for the thrift store and I was vacuuming and of course--toys!!!

Now, he may have been extra silly because this is what he was doing right BEFORE he began dancing and being wild!

Don't call CPS people--the bottle was NOT open!!

This is a special bottle of wine -- cannot purchase in a store! You have to know the person who signed it......

I met two friends from church for a movie tonight at 7:45. Sheryl and John. Oh and by the way---they have been dating for four months and are madly in love! They are so cute. He just recently turned 70 and she is--oh around 63. Then the three of us went to this bar called NEW YORK for some conversation and a drink! It was fun!

Tomorrow- mass, meeting a friend at 10am, Danny is meeting with his study group, and more chores and laundry! And Desperate Housewives!

Peace out!

Another SIDS Tragedy

2008-09-29T20:38:00.002-05:00

I am sure there are more losses from SIDS last week --but I learned of this tragic loss of a little boy today. Tryson was 3 months old and died at home. So sad....

I spoke to my dear friend Debra last night. Please hold her close in your heart and pray she is comforted and knows how much she is loved as Logan's first birthday approaches- October 16.

An oldie, but a goodie - and one of my Dad's favorite sayings since I think I was in high school....."Tough Times Never Last, But Tough People Do!" The book is written by Dr. Robert Schuller. I pulled out that book last night and read a little bit. This struck me and I thought I would share.

"There will never be another now --- I'll make the most of today.
There will never be another me -- I'll make the most of myself."

Oreo is damn smart....

2008-09-28T21:38:00.003-05:00

Evening friends...

Why does the weekend have to be so damn short?!?! UGH!!!!!! I have my alarm set for 6am so I can get up and go for a 30 min walk before getting ready for work. I went tonight--took Oreo with me -- and damn if she did something pretty funny. Let me expand on this....

Ok, so I visited with my Care Receiver tonight and one thing we talked about was us getting into an exercise program and sticking with it. So, tonight from 9-9:30 I took Oreo for a walk. Now keep in mind....I usually do take a poop pickerupper bag--but tonight I did not. And low and behold..she had to go..#2! And damn if she rocks...she picked a front lawn with an OBAMA sign in it. Well I guess she told them! :-) Sorry GG -- but come on...it's funny!!!

Danny is at the kitchen table studying for the CFP exam. He will take it on Nov 21 and Nov 22--along with Wendy and Doug (two others from his class who missed it by less than 10 questions!) Paul is fast asleep..for now!

I went to see my family dr this past week to talk about upping the dosage on my meds. She agreed and I am starting to think that maybe the Wellbutrin is having an unfavorable reaction. A friend emailed me today and said Wellbutrin made her suicidal. :-(

Hey SA---did you know that Andrea Bocelli is coming to SA for some opera concerts? I found out last weekend. I wish we could go!!! A few of my favorite songs are:
Mille Lune Mille Onde (what does that mean?)
Time to Say Goodbye (with Sarah Brightman)
Because We Believe
Solamente una vez
Chiara

I must get ready for bed if I want to get at least 7 hours of sleep.
Lord, give me the guidance to know when to hold on and when to let go and the grace to make the right decision with dignity. AMEN

The End of Septmber....

2008-09-27T13:37:00.002-05:00

How sad to hear that Paul Newman died. He was a super cute 83 year old man!

Busy morning around here. Danny and Paul went to the zoo and I did all this:
Cleaners
Grocery Store
Dropped off a bag at GoodWill
Bank
Post Office
Talked to my best friend Tish (and Paul's Godmother) for 25 min
Met Gloria for lunch and to catch up
Two loads of laundry
And finally - washed dishes

Can I rest now?!!!

Oh So Close.....

2008-09-25T22:05:00.005-05:00

Disappointing news to report....Danny did not pass the most difficult CFP exam...yet that is. He thought he had missed passing by 12 questions--but it is only 8 questions. I think he told me there is something like 290 on the exam. Of his seven classmates...4 passed and 3 did not. The three who did not pass....are planning to take it again Nov 21 and Nov 22. So, all those CFP books are back spread out all over the kitchen table (AGAIN!) and my poor husband is back to studying for another two months. The national pass rate is 55%. My friend Evin said she missed passing the Kansas Bar Exam by 0.0025%----the first time she took that dreaded exam. OUCH!

Is it getting old to say---I had another busy week?!?! I am thrilled that tomorrow is Friday! Yippy Skippy!

Danny used his birthday money and bought a really nice new suit today! Ralph Lauren dark grey--super sweet and he looks oh so nice in it! It was on sale.....$294..from something like $450. If you have never seen Danny in a suit..with one of his fancy Nordstrom shirts and $100 tie -- you must one day! He looks fabulous if I do say so myself!

We are meeting with Paul's NEISD Speech Pathologist tomorrow morning at 8:30. Her name is Anne and all her notes to us have been encouraging. I am looking forward to the meeting. She sees Paul Tues and Thurs mornings for 30 min each time.

**Brief interruption .......coming home tonight I had my windows down and there was a dead skunk in the road and seriously---I about threw up. The smell was horrific. I think the worse ever!!! I really do think the smell is still all over by body...b/c as I sit here typing this entry...I am about to gag!!!!

Danny is playing in the SPURS golf tournament tomorrow at Canyon Springs Golf Club. My company is a sponsor (our owners are also investors in the SPURS) and there is a foursome playing. Lucky him! I am going to drive the beer cart!

Ok, what I am about to share next is rather sad and heartbreaking. I have been reading this young gal's blog for about 8-10 weeks now. I ask you to check it out and pray for her these next several weeks. She is pregnant and having a C-Section in 13 days. In all honesty--I would never be able to do what she is doing--never!!

Shifting again---there was a bridal shower for one of our young co workers last Sunday. Janice opened up her lovely home to all of us silly gals. Well ok, I am probably the silliest of them all. I was the "official" photograpeher and tried to capture a nice party. Leave it to Marta to go and buy something OFF her registry. One item was a set of cards with sex positions....cartoon pics with names. If you are a prude...don't look below.......but it was oh so funny to watch and take pictures of a few of the gals whooting and hollaring over them and checking ALL of them out!!! They said they needed ideas.....!!!! TMI First---a picture of the cute young soon to be bride--Kayla.

Help - I am Drowning!

2008-09-20T12:57:00.003-05:00

S.O.S. - chunky, MWF needs help! Remember what the wicked witch of the West said at the end of the movie - "I'm melting.....I'm melting!" Well, imagine me standing here in my study saying with a slight whine..."I'm drowning...I'm drowning!"

A FULL week of work and a lot of running around and work appts. My days are long and tiring! In an out of the car..in and our of the office....networking events at night.....meeting with clients at night......all the while feeling that annoying chronic pain! No rest for the weary either! Last night I never really sat sit until oh about 10pm. Errands, laundry, picking up the dang house. All before noon today I did: Grocery Store, Cleaners, Post Office, took 4 HUGE bags of stuff to the St. PJ's Children's Home thrift store and a pedicure!

Danny is SUPER pissy and annoyed b/c the damn CFP exam result letter STILL has not gotten here. Three of his buddies got theirs on Thurs--one failed and two passed. So, we thought--ok, Friday it will come.....NOPE! Ok, it will arrive today......NOPE! GEEZ LOUISE people in Washington DC!! They said all letters were mailed Tuesday - so what is up with Danny not getting his yet!

I need to run one more errand and continue picking up and laundry. The SOS is for help cleaning my house. There is NEVER anytime to get it done and at this time--we really cannot afford to have someone come in. What we really need is this great company I used 4 years ago to do a big overhaul and major cleaning. The cost is like $350! But then it is easier to keep the house up and running and I don't feel like I am drowning!!!!!

We must leave here at 5:45 today to take Paul to a co-workers house and then on downtown to the Grand Hyatt for tonight's UTHSC event. Danny will wear a tux and I have a cocktail dress and fancy accessories of course...all found in my jewelry stand and closet--nothing new!

Here's a dare to all of you.......look back at the entire month of August and calculate how much you spent on gas. (then post a comment here) Let me know if you have 1, 2 or more cars. We have 2 cars and we both have sales jobs. Our total car gas bill for August was $495!!!

Have a superb day peeps! Rock on!

Two Year Event

2008-09-17T21:14:00.002-05:00

Danny began taking the CFP courses in September 2006. He had to take 7 exams along the way and study his little heart out. The big exam was in July 2008 and it has been 8 LONG weeks waiting for the results. I read on the national CFP website today that the exam result letters were mailed September 16. Geez people -- took long enough! So, we should know tomorrow, Friday or Saturday if he passed. Only 55% of the folks who take the exam pass it. It is one difficult exam..and I say better Danny than me!! I am not worried -- I know he passed! So, in a couple of days--the party will commence!

Busy weekend ahead. Cleaning and errands Sat and then we have a big event o attend at the Grand Hyatt Saturday night. The event is honoring Gov. Dolph Briscoe and it should be a lot of fun. Danny has to wear a tux. I am wearing my black cocktail dress and I bought some new jewelry for something different. If you live in SA..or Houston..check out Charming Charlie. Pretty neat accessory place. Here in SA it is located at The Rim. Then Sunday morning - going to another event my company is sponsoring at Our Lady of the Lake. Mass celebrated by Archbishop Gomez and then lunch afterwards. Then home to freshen up and head to a bridal shower at 2pm for a co-worker. Can anyone say......"Man, Susan will be partied out by the time Sunday night rolls around...!"

And it's OFFICIAL-- I am campaigning to become Queen of the Vine for the 2009 Fiesta Event called A Taste of the Northside. Check out the voting website HERE.

Off to prepare for bed. Danny should be home soon from his dinner thing with the co workers and subordinates.

Love to all.....

Huricane Ike

2008-09-14T12:36:00.002-05:00

It's been a week full of worry and anticipation - with not knowing where old Ike would come ashore. At one point, it was headed towards Corpus Christi. CC is only 120 miles from San Antonio, so if that were to happen--we would have had some rough weather. But it shifted east and the eye went right over SE Houston - near Galveston - near Friendswood, TX (where Danny's family lives). Have you seen all the devastation?! To quote EVERY news person Thurs, Fri and Sat -- if anyone stayed near Galveston or those zip codes who had mandatory evacuations--"they are fools!" Property and stubbornness are not worth risking lives for.....!!!! I don't think many people really understood the magnitude of this hurricane. It was no Hurricane Rita from 3 years ago. Ike took up most of the Gulf of Mexico for pete's sake!!! With a few million without power--it will be a long recovery. But if you're alive and well -- that is most important.

Work was busy of course. Trying to get new business and meeting with people who can assist with that! Working on a project - well three really. Danny's 43rd birthday was yesterday. He and Paul were scheduled to travel to Houston and return home tomorrow. By Tues this week - we knew that wasn't going to happen. So, he and Paul went to the zoo yesterday while I did some cleaning and laundry. Then we met a group of friends at BIGZ Burger Joint last night to celebrate Danny. It was fun and after Paul went to bed we watched Flightplan. It was an ok movie. I wouldn't rush out to rent it though...we give it 3 stars..out of five.

We have our Teams meeting today at 5pm and after I need to visit with my care receiver. I am a Stephen Minister and I haven't seen her in a couple of weeks. Then of course it's getting ready for the work and school week. I have a big client meeting Thurs night at 6 and a UTHSC event at the Grand Hyatt downtown Sat night. One of our owners asked for specifically for Danny and I to attend and sit at our company table. Uh, sure Charlie--anything you want dude!! We just need a sitter for Paul.

Before I attempt more chores--while Paul is asleep and Danny is watching NFL -- below are some recent movies I rented and I would recommend them.

Moondance Alexander
Love's Unfolding Dream
Charlie Wilson's War
21
National Treasure - Book of Secrets
Rendition
Jack and Jill vs The World
Under the Same Moon

I am also reading a few books right now ---
for Teams of Our Lady - Covenant Marriage by Gary Chapman
for my new GNO Bible Study Group - Discerning the Voice of God
before bed - North Carolina Brides
for Paul - Dr. Atwood's book on Asperger's Syndrome
for work - Get More Referrals Now and The Referral of a Lifetime

2008 Parade of Homes

2008-09-07T17:43:00.002-05:00

The 2008 Parade of Homes will come to a close in 15 minutes. This year's parade was a success--I think anyway. Nine custom home builders -- all awesome! One of my clients and favorite people had a home this year...#9! His name is Don Craighead and is a super sweet man. He became my VIP insurance client back in 2001 and I recently took him away from my former employer--it's me he loves! He won the Realtors Choice award -- their favorite!
And I do believe he will win the People's Choice Award. Folks could vote for their favorite as they left. I didn't have to work it too much -- and persuade them to vote for #9 -- his masterpiece was the overwhelming favorite. I worked the event 4 days and had a good time, but am also wiped out! It ain't cool here in South Texas lately.....

Don has a lovely wife, Nell, who is his decorator. And three daughter--Julie, Jill and Jenny. Julie is my age..well, she is 5 months older than me! Sometimes I tell people..he has 3 +1 daughters--and I am the +1! I mentioned that to him this week and he said..sure..at least I think he said that! :-)

We met some friends for lunch today at 11. Paul had a good time and behaved very well! He loves Diane, Adrian and Uncle Barney. Daddy and Barney have been friends since first grade -- so, a VERY long time!! Barney lives in Arlington, but has been here all week on vacation. After lunch we went to Barney's parent's house--which is always fun and interesting. See, Joe and Mary Esther Bernal are BIG TIME Democrats. Joe B was once a Texas Senator and now serves on the State Board of Education's Board. Mr. Bernal went to the DNC........he and Danny really get into talking politics. This time, very little was said as Joe needed help with his computer and it was Adrian to the rescue. Mary Esther, Danny, Diane, Barney and I entertained Paul with these neato cards Mrs. Bernal had. Animals, animals, animals--Paul's favorite thing! He did a phenomenal job of naming most of them. He also did a super job of putting them all back into their case----he has excellent fine motor skills!

While Paul was napping today I ran off to get a much needed pedicure. My feet were raw and ugly from all the standing and walking I did this week at the Parade of Homes. We're having pizza for dinner and then I have some things to do before bed. I am going to get up at 5:45 and go for a 45 min walk...so I am charging my IPOD and will get my walking clothes out tonight.

How did Sunday night arrive so quickly. Seems like it was just Friday @ 5pm. UGH!

While I have been typing this blog entry, I have my ITUNES open and have been listening to an array of music. Everything from Madonna, Selah, Carrie Underwood, Loverboy, ZZ Top, Motley Crue, Mark Harris, Pink, Karina, Matchbox 20. I love music and a variety--can you tell?!

I don't know about any of you--but I am often discouraged and need my faith and God to help me turn it all around. So, I share this with you--if you ever need it!

Psalm 138: 7 - "Lord, even when I have trouble all around me, you will keep me alive. When my enemies are angry, you will reach down and save me by your power."

Father, God -- help us to minimize our struggles; yet, at the same time,help us recognize that any struggle we have is small in comparison to the great God we serve. AMEN

The boys are back---with PIZZA!! Gotta run....adios!

Paul at Zilker Gardens in Austin

2008-09-01T19:02:00.005-05:00

We left home this morning at 8:30 and got to Austin around 9:45 - specifically Zilker Gardens. It's free! Parking is free too! Loved it! We enjoyed all the prettiness and I took several pictures of the lad -- so fun! We hiked up Mt. Bonnell in the humid, hot blistering sun! But it was all worth it to see the view again and Paul loved every minute of it! Here are a few of my favorite looks from the day.....

Labor Day

2008-08-31T19:49:00.002-05:00

Can you believe tomorrow is September 1?! WOW! It's not only Labor Day, but also my sister-in-law's 40th Birthday! Let's wish Alleson a wonderful day! We got her a gift card to Ann Taylor Loft. She's perfect for that store b/c she is tall and thin!

We have a nice day planned tomorrow. We're going to head up to Austin early in the morning and visit the Zilker Botanical Gardens. I hope to get some nice shots of Paul with my new camera! Then we're heading over for a hike on Mt. Bonnell and I am sure Danny wants to show Paul the UT campus. To top the trip off--we're having lunch/early dinner at Huts. Shoot, I better make sure they will be open!

I am off to clean out my car and go gas it up so we don't have to waste time doing that tomorrow morning.

Sweet dreams.....

What is Redeeming Love about?

2008-08-29T22:28:00.002-05:00

Written by Francine Rivers. I first was told about this book two years ago by a MOPS pal. I read about 3/4 and put it away and just got it back out again this week.
Synopsis: a novel about a woman who struggles with spiritual warfare her entire life (like all of us) and a man who listens to God and allows God to guide him and he faithfully serves God all the while restoring Angel/Sarah. The novel is touching and heart wrenching too. There is rejection and betrayal, a person rescued, redeemed, reconciled and restored. A novel about how salvation is God's blessing - we don't have to earn it--it is what it is--always and forever!

Yvonne even made us book club party favors! I will post a picture of what she made for all of us. So sweet!!! A very pretty card all bright and cheery with scripture on it.
From Ephesians 3:17-21
"And that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith; that you, rooted and grounded in love, may have strength to comprehend with all the holy ones what is the breadth and length and height and depth, and to know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge, so that you may be filled with all the fullness of God. Now to him who is able to accomplish far more than all we ask or imagine, by the power at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus to all generations, forever and ever." AMEN

I am too tired right now to do this for you.....BUT please take some time and look up, read and reflect on His Word. All of these all incorporated in this book!
Psalm 139: 15-17
Proverbs 15:22
Titus 2:14
1 Peter 5:6-7
Romans 8:28

Our next book is titled: Discerning the Voice of God. I think it will go well with the book we just read and discussed.

I am off to talk with Danny for a few moments before I attempt sleep. Sweet dreams blog world.......

Redeeming Love

2008-08-29T18:37:00.003-05:00

TGIF!

Today was a good day! Had lunch at Demo's with some co -workers--yummy! Am going to start working on a BIG account on Tuesday--received the word today! And I mean HUGE!

Paul is watching Dumbo and Danny is watching the news. I am ready to head out to my new book club group! Friends from my MOPS group! I can't wait to get there! We're all gathering at Yvonne's home. She has an amazing home! Older home, but they re did everything and it is--well, awesome and amazing. Comfy, cozy home....filled with love and the sound of young children.

Yeah for the 3 day weekend. We have no specific plans--which is NICE for a change. Time together as a family and time to get some chores done around the house.

Ya'll have a wonderful Friday night! Check out this jewelry...am so getting a necklace! The gal who makes it is from Austin, TX!!

Sick Again...

2008-08-26T14:10:00.002-05:00

Ugh---I need to start taking allergy medicine on a regular basis again. Because once my allergies kick in--it almost always turns into a sinus infection. Alas, Sunday afternoon I started feeling sick and I got worse. So, I stayed home yesterday and went to the TX Med Clinic. At that time, I had no fever, so the brilliant doctor (NOT) decided not to give me antibiotics--BIG mistake. Around 4pm I started having chills and a 102 degree temperature! I called TX Med Clinic around 6 and they said--the dr is gone, but they hope he will call in. So, I took my Mucinex D and the prescription cough medicine (with codeine) and went to bed around 8:30. I was up every hour coughing and blowing my nose. I still felt weak and had a fever this morning and Danny begged me to stay home one more day. It stresses me out to miss work -- a lot to do! I took the cough medicine again this morning and slept from 8-11am. I do feel better this afternoon--no fever.

We have our Clay Shoot tomorrow at work from 3-9 at the National Shooting Complex. I hope it's not super hot! And then Friday night I am beginning to see some of my MOPS gal pals again. A group of them have a once a month Fri night book club and I was asked to join! I am excited about spending time with old friends and women who are thoughtful. This Fri night is at Yvonne's home. She and I became good friends last year when I started asking for help with Paul. She has a 4 year old son who has sensory issues and language delay. She is the Mommy who recommended Dr. McCray---our pediatrician. From the moment I took Paul to see her last September, I loved her! She is amazing and has incredible bed side manners and is oh so smart!

Can you believe this weekend is Labor Day? Where has 2008 gone?! My sister-in-law's 40th birthday is September 1. I forgot to ask my brother if they have anything special planned for her. Sept. 8 is my brother-in-law's birthday and my best pal Evin's and then Danny's 43rd birthday is September 13.

So, I am feeling a little light headed right now and need to go lie down.
2 Corinthians 5:6-7 says, "Therefore, being always of good courage...we walk by faith, not by sight."

Is it Asperger's Syndrome (AS) or Not? And does it really matter?

2008-08-22T21:02:00.002-05:00

OMG---so much information from so many different specialists. Bottom line: we want to know how we help our son so he is successful in school and life and I will do anything and everything to be certain my little man never has self worth/esteem issues. NEVER!!!!

We just had the final report given and gone over by the NEISD (our school district) gals. All really nice and eager to help us and Paul. Basically, all the administered tests tell us he does not have autism--severe or medium. However, given a couple of his characteristics and tendencies--they do feel he is on the Autism Spectrum somewhere...... I have been reading a lot and talking with other Mommies of children with AS. From all I read---a child must exhibit a certain number of symptoms -- to be considered Asperger's. According to all those checklists--Paul does not have AS. But he does certainly have "stuff" and we're taking him to a pediatric neurologist Oct. 29.

Here are some things about Paul his doctor, the NEISD gals, Brighton teachers and us think might be going on with Paul and his brain.....who knows for sure!

His brain takes in everything, or shuts down and takes in nothing when it gets overwhelmed. It seems like he can’t filter out any thing at times.

A lot of things that people say don’t make sense to Paul--their sentences I mean. Paul's brain thinks people use words and phrases that don’t really go together, or they’re not clear. Maybe Paul sees everything in pictures in his head, and with little printed words going across this little screen. I get mixed up. Paul's brain is literal.

Some people feel that it is atypical that Paul can label and identify something like 40 animals, but he doesn't understand when you ask him..."how are you doing?" or "what did you do today at school?" However, when I ask him if he loves me...often times he does say YES or nods his head yes. So, it makes it difficult to figure out what he does understand and what he does not. Paul is SUPER affectionate too! Most of what I read about any level on the autism spectrum states AS children are often not that way--and many are clumsy and have not so good motor skills. Uh, Paul's fine motor skills kick ass and the boy can run...skip, jump, climb and all sorts of other playground things and is very coordinated. So---I don't get it??? So, he like to line up his animals and cars sometimes--I do believe typical toddlers sometimes do that too......!!!!

I often feel that Paul's been slower to develop socially due to his prior ear infections. Ear infections correlate with slower developing verbal skills and verbal abilities are highly correlated with social skills. What do any of you think?? Someone suggested this...

Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers (M-CHAT) http://www.firstsigns.org/downloads/m-chat.PDF.

Do other three year olds do these two things.....Paul does neither one.

1. Answer “what,” “where,” and “who” questions easily?
2. Talk about interests and feelings about the past and the future?

Danny and I feel that Paul's expressive language delays may interfere with academics and social communication. Again, who knows? I hope the neurologist can offer some help.

Paul certainly has difficulty with pragmatic language. These are the communication skills used in social settings. However, he has made progress and improved overall since going to Bright Beginnings at Brighton. We are ever so grateful for all the folks there who love, care for and teach Paul. Praise God for Ms. Janice, Ms. Gwen and Ms. Laura and all the other teachers and staff!

I am off to do some chores. We have a meeting here at our home tomorrow from 2-4. And then my friend's 40th bday party at Stonewerks in the evening! Woo Hoo!!!

Eleven Years in San Antonio

2008-08-18T20:07:00.002-05:00

This past weekend marked 11 years I have lived in the Alamo City. Hard to believe sometimes it has been that long. I have lived in 3 homes --the townhouse, my apt on Austin Highway and this house! God knew what he was doing bringing me here. I have the greatest husband and incredible little boy--thank you God.

This weekend was a little lazy--but that's ok given the weekend before was toooooo busy! I spent Sunday afternoon watching The Secret. I have been wanting to watch it for several months now. It was really awesome and I highly suggest you all watch it (and take notes) too!

Paul is so funny. He is watching BAMBI again this weekend and tonight...and probably tomorrow and the next day too. He imitates so many of the scenes. Yesterday, he ran out of the family room and then regally walked back in with his head high--just as Bambi's Father was doing so in the movie. We cracked up --- oh how I wish I had it on video. Somehow, I think I will be able to capture it-I am sure he will do it again. How did he know to run out and then come back in...walking like a King...head up..serious look on his face. Can you visualize??!!

This is another busy week with work...appts, evening events, Paul's evaluation results from the school district, etc. And then Sat night is a 40th birthday celebration for a friend at Stone Werks - at The Quarry. I am so happy it's not StoneWerks at The Vineyard----do not really like that location one bit! Stone Werks at The Quarry brings back so many memories of 1998 -- working downtown and going there every Thurs and sometimes Fri night after work. Live music, dancing, drinking, having fun. I am really looking forward to this party!

My friend's Debra and John (who lost their baby boy to SIDS in June) are getting away tomorrow - Friday. Yeah for them! They are visiting a resort and spa in Phoenix and a few of us sorority sisters have something special planned for them....... And while in Phoenix will be having dinner with 2 Alpha Phi's....Patti and Karla! Everyone should have a friend like Debra! I am lucky--I have a few incredible best friends! Maybe I can will it so that Debra, John and Olivia move to SA--or we can move to Kansas City........wishing upon a star.......

Here's a thought.......if you're having a bad hair day -- maybe Jesus just rubbed your head?!

Celebrity Casino Night

2008-08-14T11:47:00.003-05:00

Hola peeps!

So much to write about--but limited time of course. My wish for the rest of the year is that life slows down, but I seriously do not see that happening.

Last weekend was busy with the SA Builders Association Clay Shoot. It was HOTTER than Hades at the shooting complex. Thankfully the food, drinks and fellowship were great! Saturday brought chores and errands. In the evening I attend Tony and Eva Longoria Parker's Casino Night to benefit her non profit--Eva's Heroes. Around 1000 people packed into Pedrotti's. Lots of interesting attire and celebrities. The food was ok..nothing to really write home about. We had fun playing Blackjack. Our table was fun and the dealer was a hoot! One of the rooms hosted a Texas Hold Em poker tournament. I would guess 300 people took part in that. The grand prize was a seat the World Series of Poker. I left around 11 and haven't learned yet who won. It was down to about 3-4 tables with 6-8 people each. Eva was still in at her table..as was T Park.

Sunday brought more chores and we hosted our church group over for our monthly meeting and dinner. I was pooped at 9am Sunday night! I needed a day to re group--but alas, Monday was a work day! UGH! I don't think I fully woke up until after lunch on Monday. And I could tell I was getting sick. I don't get enough rest and my diet is well, not good!

I made an appt with a pediatric neurologist for Paul. We can't get in until Oct 29, but that's ok. It will be here before we blink....... We go Aug 21 to find out the final report from the school district about Paul. They evaluated/tested him on 3 separate occasions in late May and early June. I have been reading some books on Asperger's --high functioning Autism--and according to many lists.....a child needs to meet a certain number of criteria to remotely be considered having Asperger's. Paul has one characteristic. My gut tells me he doesn't have any form of autism, but does have some social and behavior issues that need to be worked out before he goes to school. And that may not happen either. He is definitely a sensory seeking boy and needs to go go go...and I think we need to wear him out more. But crap--it is so dang hot! It's difficult to be outside. With all the reading and asking of questions of so many professionals, we feel he does some a mild - medium case of SI - Sensory Integration dysfunction. Praise God he doesn't have cancer or a more severe illness or disability. Paul is so silly and fun to be around. He is a loving and sweet little boy and I could eat him up!!!

I have been playing around with my new SLR digital camera. I need to sit down and take some time to read through the book and really get acquainted with how to use all the features. It is truly amazing and I love it! Below is a pic of my new shoe--the one I posted about prior...love these shoes! They are so me! Don't you think??!!

I am getting my haircut later today and then home to get some rest. I have a 7:30 breakfast meeting and then 2 other meetings tomorrow and I don't want to feel icky. I told Danny I wish to lay low this weekend and get some extra rest and spend time as a family. We have not scheduled events---thank GOD!

Peace out sisters and brothers.

Papa Bought Mama a New Pair of Shoes!

2008-08-03T21:01:00.002-05:00

My friend Tina just said either Thursday or Friday--well, no more new shoes since you just bought a car! I agreed--UNTIL, we saw this really COOL pair of shoes at Nordstrom last night. Danny actually saw them and loved them! He said,"try them on!" So, I painfully agreed. YOWZA----so cute and so me! Boutique9 slides....rosey/purple leather knotted....shimmery... Don't feel bad for Danny friends--he bought himself a new dresshirt and a new tie! I will post pics of my new shoes and his new tie soon! We had a date night to celebrate my birthday--which was July 21. Tina, Todd, Zachary and Makayla entertained Paul for about 4 hours while we dined at SPICE and shopped at La Cantera (or as my friend Gloria and I call it - Holy Ground!)

I went to The Haven and Laurels today with Laila to serve communion to the elderly. We actually hold a prayer service at The Laurels. I did the Gospel reading for today and a brief reflection. It went well. They are all so appreciative of us and the time we spend there. Danny, Paul and I went for pizza tonight and then home to play before bath and bed!

Danny is now at the driving range hitting balls. He is playing golf tomorrow afternoon and needed to practice!

Want some news? Danny's brother's wife - Veronica - is pregnant! I think due in March. I don't know if she has been to the doctor yet. They live in Houston - well, Friendswood really. It was a surprise....those are fun! My co worker Nicole finds out tomorrow if she is having a boy or a girl. The Chinese gender predictor calendar says BOY. I have used this thing for about 14 pregnancies and it has been right every time!!!! You must know the age of the Mother when she conceived the child and the month the child was conceived...and it helps to know general time frame of that month.....

So, with that..I leave you with this tonight.....

1 Corinthians 13:5 "Love doesn't fly off the handle...."
No Mom can be perfect all the time. We all lose our tempers. We all complain. We all get grouchy. But God knew that when He created us. He knew our flesh would win out once in a while. That's why He sent Jesus to save us from our sins, so we can repent for our grouchy attitudes and move forward in love. So get those grouchies off and let love control you today and everyday!

New Addition to the Niño Family

2008-07-31T21:00:00.002-05:00

Before any of you get too excited..our new addition is a car--for Danny. I doubt if any of you have been in his 99 Ford Contour lately......it is pretty beat up and about to fall apart. We were going to wait another 6-8 months--but why? So, I called this guy I know at Rod East Volkswagen--Earl--and voila----we bought a 2007 Volkswagen Passat today...25K miles --black with black leather....very cool looking I must say! Danny is overjoyed --so that is fun!

I am so tired..last night was GNO. Tina, Courtney, Kristin and I went for sushi---I had 3 glasses of wine and then Tina and I took Kristin to Waldo's for darts and simply to experience the place. I got home at 12:45am I think. So, I will have to blog about my trip to Kansas City and fun happenings this week another time.

Real quick though-had a nice time with Debra, John and Olivia. I am so happy I was able to make the trip and spend some time with them. Remember--they lost their precious Logan to SIDS on June 5. Please continue to pray for them---for a new normal, comfort and peace. I love you guys! I met Debra in the Spring of 1988 and we became good friends quickly. Here are John and O hanging out--we were prob all watching THE LITTLE MERMAID! :-)

Check out this video...HILARIOUS!!!!
http://www.hulu.com/watch/10234/saturday-night-live-annuale#s-p1-st-i2

Movies

2008-07-23T22:47:00.003-05:00

The last 2 months I have rented several movies. We have Blockbuster through the mail and I love it!! We've had it about a year now and it is so worth the $20 a month. No going to the store, 3 movies at a time and you can keep any movie as long as you wish. We had Bambi for 6 weeks!

Here are several movies I would recommend:
Sweet Land
Gracie
Bella
P.S. I Love You
Pride
The Bucket List
Catch and Release
God Grew Tired of Us

Tonight was GNO. We went to the ROARING FORK. Really good service, food and ambiance. Only down side is that it is loud and you cannot hear well when trying to talk with your gal pals around the table. Maile, Tina, Adrienne, Michelle, Michelle's Nana, Judy and Courtney were all in attendance. I do believe everyone enjoyed their meal, and of course we enjoyed all the laughs!

Off to bed now peeps!
2 Timothy says, "For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind."

If I Were Brave

2008-07-17T18:42:00.002-05:00

A couple of months ago I stumbled upon an artist named Jana Stanfield. Anyone heard of her?! I love many of her songs. One of my favorite of hers right now is titled If I Were Brave. Listen to it.....you can find it on itunes or on her website. And I have loved Selah for a long time and even more now since I have been reading Angie Smith's blog...her husband is in Selah. An old song of theirs is titled All of Me. It speaks to my heart everytime.

Let's go a different direction. I went with our community relations gal from work to a "Building Believers" lunch at GSABA. I am an active member in this organization since going back to work. You take your lunch and hear a great speaker and praise God for all things! One can offer up any special intentions. We went to Quizno's beforehand and got salads. While in the joint...one of my favorite songs from 2000 was Mambo #5..and it was playing. I told Debbie, "I wanted to walk down the aisle to this song..." but Fr. Jimmy said, "uh no Susan!" She loves the song too! Download it from itunes..I just did!!

And after the lunch meeting, we went out to Anaqua Springs to see a house that is being built....one of our soon to be insureds.......$10,000,000 home kids! It will be most impressive and quite possibly the most expensive house in San Antonio..which I personally think is not a good thing really. And on the way...we were almost in a major collision on I-10...but God saved us..and we totally believed it!!! Praise God for watching out for us!

And check out A-Z Wineworks, located in Oregon. Coach Popovich (or as I call him Coach Pop) invested in this winery a few years ago and they made a special pinot noir for him to distribute to his friends and for charities. You cannot buy it in the store. It is called Rock & Hammer. (click the link and read the article on how he named this wine) I got a bottle of it yesterday from Moe..Pop's exec asst. She and I had lunch at Aldo's...on Charlie and Gary! Then we went back to the Spurs practice facility to get the wine. She said A-Z makes a nice pinot noir that is sold in stores. They make others of course...try it and let me know what you think, so we can let Pop know! He actually had a hand in helping to make the wine not sold in stores,. fair warning--he has a healthy palate...so you know!

Paul is a funny kid!

2008-07-13T09:20:00.003-05:00

Aunt Alleson, Uncle Tom and Lauren gave him navy blue crocs for his birthday. He wasn't too sure about them at first, but now he wants to wear them all the time. This morning---as I was sleeping in my bed..he crawled in holding his crocs and asked me to help him put them on. He has been wearing them all morning with his pj's!

He and Danny went for a walk last night--with the crocs on of course--and this is what Paul's face looked like when they returned. If you're wondering..YES, he got a bath before bed!!!

Oh and Tonie (my hair stylist) suggested Danny and I have another baby...what do you think?

Much Better Hair!!!

2008-07-12T17:10:00.004-05:00

Brutal honesty--I have not like my hair for 5 weeks...since the last cut. I told Tonie that today. I should have gone back to have her do something different, but I survived. So, it's really ok. She gave me a sleeker look today and I do love it! Here is the side and back. I cannot show you the front..b/c I had no makeup on and all that jazz! I certainly wouldn't want to scare anyone! Pam--it's getting shorter and I know you prefer my hair like this.....So, I watched a really good movie while Paul was napping. PRIDE. My favorite movies are sports related and have to do with coming together....determination, persistence, hard work, dreams. Like Field of Dreams, Hoosiers, Glory Road, Seabiscuit, The Rookie, etc. I highly recommend PRIDE. Rent it and settle down and enjoy!

Danny is at work studying in his office. Paul is now awake and watching Jungle Book. I was thinking of taking him to dinner somewhere and driving thru Hill Country Village to look at the deer. Cheap entertainment and Paul loves seeing the deer!

I am reading a fun beach book called The Pact. Combination of Sex and The City and Agatha Christie. If you have ever hated a friend's boyfriend, fiance or husband---read this book! :-)

Off to play with my little man...probably trains, or blocks or cars......

4th of July Weekend

2008-07-10T21:16:00.005-05:00

Hello Peeps---

It is difficult to find the time anymore to blog. I liked it better when I wasn't working...... Speaking of work, tonight we get paid--yeah!

I never got around to blogging about our trip to MI in May. Mom and Wayne's home in Crystal Mountain is beautiful and we had lots of fun playing cards, walking the resort, climbing the sand dunes, golfing and playing ping pong, pool and dominoes. Paul had a great time on the Plasma Car and all the cool toys Grandma and Grandad have in the basement. Danny and I even got to sneak away one night for a romantic dinner at Arcadia Golf Club. Right on Lake Michigan with the sunset. Really nice and great food! I took Danny and Paul over to Frankenmuth for several hours before we made our way towards Detroit to visit some of my family. We had a grand time and then on our way to the airport Monday morning, I took a detour to Southfield, MI where I lived from age 5-10. I hadn't been there in YEARS..so I wasn't sure if I would remember where to turn into the old neighborhood. I am good and found it no problem! I even made my way around and saw Brent McConnell's house...my best friend Anne Marie's home..our old house..Paul Wosachlo's old home...and several other friends from Evergreen Elementary. It was a great vacation and much needed.

So, now it's time to blog about my brother's visit last weekend. He, Alleson and princess Lauren arrived around 11pm Thurs night. I picked them up and took them downtown to their hotel. Friday morning took Paul and I to the Riverwalk and had brunch with the family. Here is a pic of Paul and Lauren on the Riverwalk after we had eaten.

Then it was on our way to The Wildlife Ranch in Garden Ridge. Paul LOVES animals and he loves the drive through safari we have just 30 min from downtown SA. Super fun and one of the best parts was that the zebras were along the road. That is the closest I have ever been to an zebra!

Paul did not wish to nap when we got back to our house. Oh wait--he did fall asleep in the car..oh, as we were about 10 min from home! We then BBQ'd and ate a nice holiday dinner. Paul would go to bed early--so no fireworks for him. Danny stayed home with the lad and put him to bed. The four of us went to The Westin at La Cantera to watch the Fiesta Texas fireworks. Great view and really nice weather...rather odd really for July in South Texas!

Sat morning brought a trip to Sea World. They opened at 9am and we were in the gate at 9:10am. There is so much to tell you about that day..but I am tired and need to get ready for bed. I will finish this entry tomorrow. Let's just say-we stayed 10 hours! Paul and Danny stayed about 8. Paul was pooped. Shoot, his Mama was pooped! A ton of people of course since it was a Sat on a holiday weekend. We did see 5 shows though and the highlight of the day was that Lauren was IN the Believe Shamu Show. Yes, on stage, on the jumbotron and smiling pretty for the audience. She had to answer a few questions too....so cute--and very memorable!!

I leave you with this.....

I recently caught a repeat of a Sex and the City episode and one line in that show has stayed with me for weeks. In this particular episode, Carrie (Sarah Jessica Parker) decides to move from Manhattan to Paris to be with her new self-consumed artist boyfriend, Aleksander Petrovsky. When she gets to Paris and gets settled in, Aleksander is constantly busy and stressed about a new gallery project. Carrie is new to a foreign city, doesn’t speak the language or know anyone and is trying to wait patiently to spend some time with her new boyfriend. One day, the two had planned to meet his ex-wife for lunch. After the ladies were stood up because of a “pressing issue”, his ex-wife told Carrie that Aleksander’s famous words are “as soon as I get done with…” She explained he never actually “gets done” with anything. His life is scattered and fluid; he rarely finishes anything. He tends to keep everyone waiting.

Living in the tunnel of the future with the “as soon as I get done with the budget project, raising my kids, getting my college degree, losing weight or any other fill in the blank” means we are always looking ahead but are rarely in the present moment. There are always things to do. The question is what are you sacrificing in the process?

Bottom line: Don’t delay living your life. It’s unfolding right before your very eyes.

The Amazing Lauren Alles Basilico

2008-06-29T16:16:00.002-05:00

My niece Lauren is 7 and lives in Denver. She is an incredible swimmer and again this summer is on a swim team. She swims with 7 and 8 year olds. She called me yesterday afternoon to tell me her results from the morning.

Two highlights- 3rd place in the 100 meter IM; 1st place in the 25 backstroke (just missed All Star qualifying time by about 1/2 second). Her best stroke has always been the backstroke. She also got 6th in the 25M freestyle..out of 19! And her relay team got 2nd in the 100M free relay. Awesome performance! She works hard at swimming and I am very proud of her!! She will be here Thursday night! I wish we lived there so I could attend her swim meets each week.

Getting Ready for the Basilico's Visit

2008-06-28T13:19:00.002-05:00

Whew--another busy week for the Niño's. Danny is busy with work and studying for his big CFP exam, which is next month. The usual for me...work, Paul, chores, errands, etc.

I went for an eye appt on Friday. I had not had my eyes checked in about 5-6 years. I am completely and utterly squeamish when it come to anything to do with the eyes. I cannot even stand to watch people use eye drops or put their contacts in or out. Nothing related to the eyes please....please no! So, here we go....

The initial testing was basic...10 feet away from eye chart..covering one eye and reading the lines. Line 11..nope...line 10..still could not read it..line 9..uh no..now I was laughing at myself..line 8....a couple of them...line 7--we have a winner. That was using my right eye. The left eye was better..I could read all of line 8 and some of line 9. Then a couple of other minor tests. THEN, in to see the doctor. Twenty feet from the eye chart....so much more difficult. Diagnoses.....slight astigmatism and some near sightedness. Given all my headaches the past few months, he wanted to check my eyes further..yep, you guessed it--he had to put drops in my eyes to test. Everything looked good..although I was rather tense from getting those drops! THEN he says.."your pupils are not dilated enough and I need to see the back of your eye and the optic nerve"...and I said.."oh no...more drops right!?" Now I was really tense and nervous and squeamish. I survived the drops going in..sort of. Then it was out to the waiting area for 20 min so my pupils could dilate. Oh about 5-7 min later..I broke out into a sweat, became VERY dizzy, felt faint an nauseated. I was beginning to sweat like a pig....completely soaking in my clothes. I made my way (I guess) to the front counter and asked for water. The gal took one look at me..jumped up and walked me towards the bathroom..I informed her I was going to throw up. We didn't make it to the bathroom..I began to pass out..she had to lift me and yelled for help. I sat down and then threw up in the trash can. The nice gal got me cold towels for my head and neck and chest..did I mention how soaked in sweat I was..... The doctor says..."the drops didn't do that....her anxiety did!" Probably true indeed. Can you picture all of this?! The drinking water and cold towels helped. Oh about 10 min later..back in to see the doctor. Everything looked normal..I said, "oh, I am far from normal!" He laughed. And now I was rather weak..so I tried to muster up the energy t drive home by trying on frames..yes, I need some glasses. I narrowed it to 2 frames and need to go back..maybe take someone with me for their opinion. There you have it...Susan's escapades at the eye doctor. Never boring with me around!

So last night, today and tomorrow, we are busy getting ready for my brother, Alleson and Lauren's visit. They arrive late Thursday night. Washing windows, yard work, putting things away, throwing things away, cleaning out freezer and refrigerator, etc. And it's super hot as usual in SA!

I am getting a pedicure at 2:30..yeah for me! Danny is heading to the UTSA library around 4 to study for 5 hours. Our babysitter is coming at 7 and I am headed to the Mylar's for a wine tasting event...fellowship too of course! I have to remember to pick up a bottle of Pinot Grigio.

Danny is resting on the couch while little man Paul watched THE WILD DVD. Grandma and Grandpa Basilico gave it to him for his birthday. I am off to fold some clothes before I head to my appt.

Keep this in mind friends.....
From John Chapter 2..."We take the good days from God---why not also the bad days?"

And someone told me this recently...When life is overwhelming and difficult, God wants us to have a faith that trusts and waits.

And this too.....
When we think about problems
Trouble grows,
When we think about God
Trouble goes.

I Live With a Three Year Old

2008-06-21T08:52:00.007-05:00

Paul turned 3 on June 16. Hard to believe three years have passed since my stay at Methodist. The night before, early contractions, having a horrific reaction to some medicine....the phenogren, the pitocin, Dr. Gallagher breaking my water at 8:30am, the intense off the chart labor pains every 2 min...an no epidural, the epidural....but having to stay still through intense contractions...the labor with the epidural..ahhhh, the news Paul's neck was hyper extended and his little face was being pushed hard against my cervix, the decision to have a C-Section, the anesthesia that made me nauseous...seeing my little boy covered in "stuff" after Dr. Gallagher pulled him from my gut, seeing Danny love on our new son while I was being sewn up, the recovery room where Danny laid Paul on my chest and he calmed instantly, the anxiousness of being in my room and waiting for them to bring me my son to hold for the first time, the first time I held my little man...so sweet!

I have to abandon this post right now as my little three year old wants to play trains and he wants his Mama to play too! Here is a picture of Paul at his birthday party. We had it at The McKenna Children's Museum in New Braunfels. It was wonderful and I do believe everyone had a fun time. The other pics are Paul and some of his girlfriends......Anissa, Caroline and Mackenzie.

God is Worthy of Our Praise

2008-06-15T16:31:00.002-05:00

I am sitting here at the computer listening to songs that lead me to write this post right now as I cry all over the keyboard. Danny, Paul and Oreo are all napping. I talked to my friend Debra yesterday afternoon. It was good to hear her voice. I so wanted to be sitting next to her and hugging her tightly. I felt lead to send her an email this morning and it included these words...

I encourage you to praise God even through all your pain. He is still with you....I promise. I continue to ask God to be with you and help you to understand and when we cannot understand, I ask him to help us to trust. Have the courage to wonder and share your pain and agony with God. I think it's Psalm 91 where it says something like Lord, you are my place of safety and protection..or something like that.

And we are all still praying for a new normal for your family. Revelation says something similar....in Chapter 21 early on in the book. 2 Corinthians also says we are renewed day by day. I believe this...even though we may have days that set us back..keep pressing on sister. God will put a new spirit in you and John....it will take time though.

My friend Pam sent me the link to this blog when she heard of Debra and John's little Logan going to be with Our Lord. Warning--you WILL cry buckets..read this story from the beginning. Sweet Angie Smith--owner and author of this blog---was kind enough to email Debra after I sent her an email asking for any help and encouragement she could offer. Debra said she and Angie had exchanged some emails. Praise God for Angie. Her husband is in the Christian Band Selah. They lost their baby girl born at 33 weeks. Audrey Caroline lived for 2 hours and 27 minutes. They were told at 20 weeks...she wouldn't live and would probably only live a few minutes. Just read her blog.... Angie and her hubby, Todd, wrote a song..I Will Carry You....here are the lyrics...

There were photographs I wanted to take
Things I wanted to show you
Sing sweet lullabies, wipe your teary eyes
Who could love you like this?

People say that I am brave but I'm not
Truth is I'm barely hanging on
But there's a greater story
Written long before me
Because He loves you like this

So I will carry you
While your heart beats here
Long beyond the empty cradle
Through the coming years
I will carry you
All my life
And I will praise the One Who's chosen me
To carry you

Such a short time
Such a long road
All this madness
But I know
That the silence
Has brought me to His voice
And He says...

I've shown her photographs of time beginning
Walked her through the parted seas
Angel lullabies, no more teary eyes
Who could love her like this?

I will carry you
While your heart beats here
Long beyond the empty cradle
Through the coming years
I will carry you
All your life
And I will praise the One Who's chosen Me
To carry you

Paul Graduates from ECI Therapy

2008-06-13T22:36:00.004-05:00

Since Paul turns 3 on Monday, the ECI (Early Childhood Intervention) dept at Brighton must stop giving Paul his speech and occupational therapy. His three lady friends came over this past Wed afternoon and brought gifts, a certificate of completion, and lots of hugs, kisses and laughs. Paul did his best to entertain them.....he did marvelous and eventually even put on the graduation gown Miss Vanessa brought. I have so much to blog about, but it is late for this old gal and I need to get to bed. Below is a great picture of Paul with Miss Vanessa, Miss DeeDee and Miss Melissa. He loves them all so much and I know will miss seeing them on a regular basis. He has come a long way since October. Shoot---those teachers at St. Mark's would be awfully surprised to be around him now. The other is my little man dancing around and being silly in his graduation gown.

Oh and we have Paul's birthday party tomorrow at 10:30am. We're going to the McKenna Children's Museum in New Braunfels. We should have about 15 kiddos and 15 -20 adults. I know it will be a fun time!

Love to all of you......wherever you are!

Crystal Blue Eyes

2008-06-08T20:24:00.003-05:00

My friend Debra just sent me 2 recent pictures of Mr. Man Logan. His funeral is set for Tuesday morning at 10am. My friend ZZ found his obituary and sent me this link. http://www.legacy.com/KansasCity/DeathNotices.asp?Page=Lifestory&PersonId=111169350

Here is Logan Thomas Howland Burgess. I think he wore the same Baptism gown that Paul wore. I sent it to Debra in Nov..simple, silk gown. I need to ask her sometime to see those pictures.

Help me pray for a new normal for Debra, John, Olivia and the rest of their family. I plan to visit all of them in July.

Precious Baby Boy...Logan Thomas Burgess...Now In Heaven

2008-06-06T19:06:00.003-05:00

It is with great sadness and heartache that I share this news.....my best friend from college and sorority sister..Debra.. lost her baby boy to what we think was SIDS. Debra and John have been married for 3 1/2 years and have Miss Olivia who is 2 1/2 and Master Logan came into this world October 16, 2007 and left us to join his other family members and God on June 5, 2008. Debra lives in the Kansas City area. I had visited them for a long weekend in Nov when little Logan was only 4 weeks old. Here is a picture I took of him when I was there.

Debra and John both work for GE and were at work while Olivia and Logan were at their sitters house. Leslie, the sitter, put Logan down for his nap and when she went to check on him after a couple of hours..he had passed. Debra asked we keep her in our prayers too. How awful to discover a baby you love as your own wasn't breathing and was gone. An autopsy was going to be performed this afternoon to determine for certain, but all indications point to Sudden Infant Death Syndrome. I had just talked with Debra on Sunday for our usual monthly catchup session. Sometimes we miss a month, but they are always in my thoughts. I have been friends with Debra for 19 years!

I ask you keep Debra, John, Olivia and the rest of the family in your prayers. Pray for comfort and peace during this devastating time. Please pray for the family and friends that will be traveling to celebrate Logan's life and for strength for them as they comfort the family. And remember Master Logan too. He was loved so much and will be greatly missed. I don't think I will be able to fly to KC and attend the funeral. But I did speak with Debra briefly this morning and told her if I could not come, I would make plans to go there in a few weeks. So that is the plan.

As someone told me once...when something like this happens..Jesus is still the same as he was before the tragedy. On some level, that gives me some peace. It is comforting to know that Logan is now being held by Jesus. He is one lucky guy to have this sweet child with Him.

The Amazing Paul

2008-05-29T19:28:00.002-05:00

This is not my entry about our vacation..I am too tired to attempt that. However, this entry is about my little boy. Ever since his surgery the end of April, the child has come alive with language. I guess those tubes really help get rid of all the fluid in the ears. Praise God!

I wanted to share his daily school reports for this week...written by his teachers...Ms. Laura and Ms. Gwen.

5.27 - "Welcome back my Paulie Wallie. Paul was so happy to be back with his friends and teachers. He was cooperative and made good choices. Please send pictures of your trip to share with this class."

5.28 - "Paul enjoys playing with stuffed animals. Paul is talking more and more each day -- yeah Paulie Wallie!!! Paul is loved in our class and has progressed so much in the last 3 months. I am grateful for Paul."

5.29 - "Paul made a lion face and enjoyed dancing. He made good choices and was awesome today. He refused to eat breakfast due to being upset."

Paul is already in bed. He actually asked to go to bed. He wanted to read 2 books and then said, "ok, night night." Alrighty then----and off to went! I have lots of things to get done tonight and the Spurs play. Danny is at CFP study group.

Here is a pic of Paul playing with a bubble machine his cousin gave to him while we were at my Aunt and Uncle's home north of Detroit.

Peace out peeps....

Survived Not Reading Emails, Reading Blogs or Writing a Blog Entry...For 9 days!

2008-05-26T19:43:00.002-05:00

We left for Michigan May 17 on a 9am flight to Detroit, MI - my birthplace...if you didn't know! My Mom and Wayne live 4 1/2 hours away and picked us up. Yes, there is a smaller airport 45 min from their home....but we saved $1200 on airfare! We left there May 24 and drove 3 hours to Frankenmuth, MI. Spent a few hours there and then drove almost 2 hours to my aunt and uncle's house north of Detroit along the St. Clair River. We spent a couple of days there and I was able to see them and cousins I had not seen for 16 years. We flew home from Detroit today and we are wiped out. Paul is in bed and I am headed to take a sleeping pill and off to dreamland. Back to work tomorrow..and dealing with a plumbing issue here at the house..and my car again is not working like it should..and Danny has to fly to Houston tomorrow...but other than that.........!!!

My entry on our fabulous vacation will be a long one..but super fun. So, come back ya all!

Does Life Ever Slow Down.....

2008-05-11T10:22:00.003-05:00

I don't think so....

We had a good week in the Niño house... Our 8th wedding anniversary was Tuesday. We celebrated by going to PF Chang's for lunch and of course another gala event that night. The Southwest Mental Health Center for Children was honoring Charlie and Cathy. We attended to support our boss and his lovely wife. It was a nice event outside with food and drinks. A young lady age 18 named Vanessa gave a heart warming testimony on how the center has helped her the past four years. I knew nothing about this incredible nonprofit who helps children ages 3-17 with depression, low self esteem and other mental illness issues. Society always talks about cancer, diabetes and heart disease...but what about mental illness?! I totally agree----it should
not be a taboo subject...it is real and affects millions of people..adults and most especially children. Kudos to the center to their programs and services!

Wed night was GNO at Michelle's house. I have not been to GNO for at least 5 or 6 weeks. I missed seeing the girls and all the laughs. I love Michelle's house too----lots of room and decorated very nicely. Can we move in? Or, can you help me decorate my house to be more cozy like yours?! Knowing I had to get up and go to work, I left around 10:30..but really wanted to stay and visit more--but ya know....I am almost 39 and need my sleep in order to be productive at work.

Thursday and Friday were spent busy working and going to St. PJ's Children's home to decorate for the Red Shoes Gala--which was last night. Paula Miller (husband Doug is the son of Bill Miller BBQ) is on the board with Danny and was heading up the decorations committee and I was helping. It was a bigger effort this year as the gals took on more and had incredible ideas and these gals are workers!!! Paula is sweet and fun to be around. On Friday she and I were decorating the bathrooms...that's right--these ladies wanted every space to be colorful and fun! We hung fabric in the bathrooms that looked like the sky with fluffy clouds and lots of colorful flowers hanging from the ceiling. I had the idea to place the cut out of The Wicked Witch of the West in the men's bathroom and last night our emcee, Bill Taylor, commented on her being in the men's room and what was up with that?! That was my idea...are you surprised? Paula and I laughed as we were situating her in the right spot! We were going to put her near the urinal..but then the men would have to move her or pee around her. The RTEC gym and lobby and bathrooms were decorated like the Land of Oz...colorful and oh so awesome. It was breathtaking last night!!!

The St. PJ's Red Shoes Gala was a huge success and I will be anxious to know what our profit is! We had a silent and a live auction. And during the live auction, Valero stepped up and donated 2 court side seats for the SPURS playoff game tonight..row 12! I think they went for $3000! Thanks Valero for thinking of the kids of St. PJ's! They thank you for your support and kindness! If I am correct with my math--the live auction items brought in $35,000 -$40,000. Bill Taylor and our auctioneer, T-Bone, did a phenomenal job! Thanks guys!!
Rick Cavender and his band were the entertainment and performed many songs and were a lot of fun! Overall, a fun evening with lots of fellowship and warm hearts! And MANY generous people who we owe much gratitude! Beautiful people in our community!!!

The creative centerpiece we manually put together on Thurs and Friday--41 of them!! No easy task either.... And the huge wall hanging to cover the bleachers...love it! And my BFF Lori and her beau Shawn. Lori is on the St PJ's board with Danny and we work together again!

I slept in today until 8:00am and Paul and Danny were anxious to give me my cards and gift. Paul got me a Woodhouse Spa Gift Card for 3 treatments. A scrub, facial and a special pedicure..awesome! I had no idea Danny knew about this place. He must have asked a gal at work.....super nice and I was very surprised. Then I went to Starbucks and the grocery store. Danny has taken Paul to the park so I can relax, write this entry and listen to my favorite songs on ITUNES as I type this entry.....I have it super loud!!!

I am going to do a few things around here and then head to the gym at noon. Danny is going to meet his CFP buddies around 2 for a study session.

With that--Happy Mother's Day to all the Mommies!! Have a blessed day!

The Basilico Visit

2008-05-04T22:07:00.003-05:00

My Dad and Jean arrived in SA on Thursday. My little Paul has been battling a nasty infection this week and I had to call the doctor and get a more serious antibiotic. The one he was given after his surgery wasn't doing the trick. I made dinner at home for the four of us as Danny had CFP class. I worked a half day on Friday and was able to spend some time with the parents and Master Paul in the afternoon. They say things happen in three's.....so Fri afternoon, our home AC went out, my car wouldn't start and Danny's AC went out in his car. So, we rented car Fri night and on we went. Saturday morning I took Paul, Dad and Jean up to the Wildlife Ranch. It is our drive through safari and it is way cool. Paul loved it of course and Dad and Jean had fun too. It has been about a year since we were there...and this time was more fun with the lad. Paul even fed the baby goats! Oh and an ostrich stuck its head in the window and my Dad almost cut off his head trying to get the window up quickly. Too funny really!!

Our wedding anniversary is Tuesday...eight years! So, Dad and Jean took us to dinner Sat night. Paul behaved well and enjoyed his pizza and spaghetti. We went to mass Sunday morning and then we all headed to the McKenna Children's Museum this afternoon. It is located in New Braunfels. It was an awesome place and Paul had a lot of fun and ran all over the place. Afterwards, we went to Dairy Queen for some ice cream.

Dang--sorry peeps, but it is after 10 and I have to get to bed. I will post for about the weekend tomorrow night. SOOO many fun things to share about Paul and his antics with Grandma and Grandpa. Whew..I am tired thinking about all of it.

I have to take Paul to school early...then get Dad and Jean to the airport around 7:30 and go on to work.

Peace out....

GO SPURS GO

2008-04-30T08:14:00.002-05:00

Well, the SPURS closed out the first series of the NBA playoffs last night against Phoenix. Yeah! Bring on New Orleans!

Paulie has horrific snot and we don't know if it's due to his surgery or if he is sick. When he wakes in the morning--it is caked on all over his lip and even some smudged on his cheeks. GROSS! And there is an awful odor coming from his mouth. Dr. Moe said one side effect from having adenoids out---bad breath for a week....but this is MORE than just bad breath. He and I had to take Miss Oreo to PetSmart this morning at 7 so she could get a bath, nails, haircut, ears cleaned and so on. Danny flew out to El Paso this morning and will be home tonight around 7.

I had a cleaning lady come yesterday afternoon and she did a pretty good job. My Dad and Jean arrive tomorrow for a few days and I only have a few things to do tonight. Oh, and go to HEB..which is so NOT my favorite thing to do.

Monday--had lunch with two of my favorite people..Tina and ZZ. I know them from my parish and we are also ACTS sisters. Last night Jennifer came over to be with Paulie so Danny and I could attend yet another gala at The Omni. This time it was for The Mexican American Unity Council. The CEO is a new client of mine. He is a super nice man. MAUC was giving out 3 scholarships to graduating seniors from Lanier High School here in SA and also recognizing Our Lady of the Lake University and Rosemary Kowalski for Lifetime Achievement Awards for their efforts to help educate young people. It was a great dinner and nice awards presentations.

Here is my little man during his school's Fiesta parade last week. Check out his face--this is soooooo me! I soooooo love my Paulie Waulie.....he cracks me up and is so sweet and loving!

Cheers!

I Love My Paulie Waulie and Viva Fiesta!

2008-04-24T08:23:00.003-05:00

This is has been another busy week! Danny was in Houston all day Monday and I am busy at work having meetings, talking with prospects and preparing proposals! I had lunch with a long time friend from Frost Bank Tuesday. She now works at Plains Capital Bank..we had a nice visit.

Our friend Barney is in town all week for Fiesta! If you aren't from SA--check out our annual party--the whole town goes crazy and one big party and events all day long for 10 days. Lots of eating and drinking too!

Paul is doing so well at school. He has a lot of friends and his teachers love him a lot and he adores them too. Ms. Laura calls him Paulie Waulie and so do about 6 of his classmates. It is really cute and makes Paul smile and laugh. Interesting tidbit--Paul has a close buddy and her name is Jazzy. They are joined at the hip, hands and sometimes lips! Oh my----my little man is getting started early with the ladies. I am not surprised! :-) Jazzy will need an invite to Paul's bday party in June. Don't know yet what we're doing--but there will be some kind of party on June 14. He turns 3 on June 16! I cannot believe it!! They are having a school parade this morning at 10am to celebrate Fiesta, and I am going to enjoy and take pictures.

Paul is having his surgery tomorrow morning. Tubes in his ears and Dr. Moe is taking his adenoids out. My sweet friend Linda is meeting us at the surgery center. Danny goes to Houston tonight and doesn't come home until late tomorrow night. I needed someone to go with me. I am a little nervous since Paul will be going "under". I bet he is sensitive to anesthesia like his Grandma Jones and his Mother...we'll see I suppose.

My Dad and Jean arrive next Thurs for a long weekend visit. So much to do before they arrive. I broke down and hired a cleaning person and she will be coming on Tuesday to help me get the house in order.

I am off to get ready.......adios peeps!

Ear Infections, ER Trips and Galas, OH MY

2008-04-19T14:54:00.003-05:00

Another busy week in the Niño family. Paul was diagnosed on Sunday with 2 ear infections and probable sinus infection. I was busy with work and the house and Paul Monday and Tuesday.

Early Wed morning Danny told me he had been up most of the night with horrific chest pains and at one time he had some numbness and tingling in his left arm and fingers. Silly man wanted to wait until 9am and go see our family doctor. Uh, no. We're going to the ER Mr. So, I took Paul to school and away we went to NC Baptist ER. I dropped him off at the ER door and went to park. By the time I got in there--he was already taken back and hooked up for an EKG. I had to wait in the waiting room. About 20 min later--they put him in a room and I could go back too. Hooked up to machines and then blood drawn. The doctor came in and asked a lot of questions. Long story short---he doesn't think it was his heart. He also had an ultrasound on his gall bladder, pancreas and liver. The dr thinks it is a peptic ulcer or gastritis. Either way Danny needs to change his diet, lose weight, stress less and get a stress test done sometime in the next couple of months. We were there for 6-7 hours. Good care though!

Danny's Mom was in town this week, but the only day we saw her was Wed..after the whole ER trauma/saga. I picked her up in the late afternoon and then picked up Paul at school. Mom got to see Paul's classroom and meet one of his teachers. Then home to hang out with Daddy. Before I took Mary Esther back to Uncle John's house--I took her to Francesca's up on 281 North. I finally found a purse Danny could purchase for me--our anniversary is in 3 weeks. And no TMZ--it wasn't $550 or even $300 --- although I really wanted one of those--from Nordstrom.

Thursday was a good day at work. Erin took me to lunch to meet with a VIP prospect. He needs to be with us! And he's Catholic--and a super sweet man! A nice lunch at Luce at The Strand. Thanks Charlie and Gary--and Nick!! I also had a good meeting with one of our new mortgage folks. We just purchased a successful existing mortgage company and added them to our current mortgage division. Welcome friends!

Thursday night---my company had a table at The Child Guidance Center's dinner/gala event. I headed out to The Omni around 6 to meet up with co-workers for a drink before the event started. Really nice glass of pinot grigio--thanks Connie--I mean Nick!! :-) Silent Auction, nice meal and lots of laughs. Mr. Curt Anastasio CEO of NuStar was being honored. He's short....but a handsome man.

Whew--almost done with the week. Friday was catchup at work and make calls. I also worked on a couple of proposals. I also wasn't feeling too swift from the night before---one glass of wine too many! :-)

I need to do some chores while Paul is napping. Danny is at an appt with a client. We went to a bday party today from noon - 2pm. Paul rode the pony in the backyard 3 times. He did not wish to get off of Freckles..the pony! Danny and I said, "hmmmm, we might have to hire Freckles for Paul's birthday...!"

"New Again"

2008-04-14T16:56:00.001-05:00

This is a new song and video by Brad Paisley and Sara Evans titled New Again. Even if you aren't a fan on country music--please watch. Enjoy. It will touch your heart and open it up wide.

My Sick Little Boy

2008-04-13T14:55:00.003-05:00

Paul battles congestion and a runny nose all the time. He has allergies and is on 2 kinds of meds..but STILL they don't eliminate the problem. And then what happens when he has all the congestion---ear infections. I could tell Fri and Sat he prob had them....cranky boy. But he had a ton of energy on Sat and he and Daddy went to the zoo while I laid low. I am not feeling well myself. So we decided late last night we would take him to Good Night Pediatrics today. I was convinced he had at least one ear infection. So this morning again--super cranky and then at 8:30am--he threw up. Three more times before we left at 11am. He was very lethargic and tired. He vomited 2 more times as we waiting for 90 min to see a doctor. Yep--2 ear infections and she believes he also has a bad sinus infection. Like Mama like Paulie. UGH! He was holding his little tummy b/c it hurt. Poor baby. I almost cried looking at him and knowing he felt really bad. Dr. Payne prescribed Zofran for the upset tummy and naturally an antibiotic for his infections. Both he and Danny are sleeping right now.

April 25 is Paul's surgery. He is having his adenoids out and tubes put into his ears. God I hope this helps with all the damn ear infections. Fortunately, all these infections have not affected his hearing....yet anyway. Danny goes to Houston tomorrow and I really don't want to miss work. I was out Fri b/c I felt like crapola. But--Paul has to come first and work will have to understand I suppose. We'll see how the rest of the day and night goes. The doctor said if he doesn't throw up anymore--he might be ok for school tomorrow. Uh, we'll see!

The Masters is on and I am off to watch it. I have not checked ESPN yet and do not know who is in the lead.

Jesus, Life Coach / Funny Paul Story

2008-04-11T11:38:00.003-05:00

Many of you might know that I wish to one day get training and certification to be a life coach. Keep in mind the one and true life coach is Jesus Christ. Have you ever thought about this...Jesus is more about transformation than success?! (my opinion that is...) With Jesus as your personal life coach, he asks you a question: What do you want me to do for you? Jesus wants us to focus now. All the power is here and now. All the intent is here right now. It is up to us to decide on who we want to be and what we want to be about in this world.
Let your light shine....let it be powerful enough to cut through steel!

Proverbs 4:25 says, "Let your eyes look straight ahead, and your eyelids look right before you." KEEP YOUR FOCUS Sisters and Brothers!

John 16:13 says, "He will guide you into all truth."

I have a funny story about Paulie. Monday morning Danny left the house around 4:30AM to fly to Houston. Paul was sleeping in the guest bed. I left him there b/c he was out and in the middle of the bed. My alarm went off at 6:30 and I checked on him. Still asleep in the middle of the bed. So, off I went to the shower.

I am super sensitive to light and I truly dislike bright lights. Our bathroom lights are super bright so I hardly ever turn them on. Instead I turn on our closet light and open the door. it lets enough light it for me to brush my teeth, shower and straighten my hair. No other light is on in the house. I take a 6-8 min shower....done, open the shower door, grab my towel...and begin to dry off. ALL OF A SUDDEN--there is this sweet voice that says, "I see you!" Holy crapola--I jumped and shrieked! Paulie scare me to death. BUT, where the heck was he?! Seconds later--this time a giggly voice, "I see you!"

Found him...he was in the closet on the floor reading a book and peeking through the crack between the wall and the door (where the hinges are)! He is so cute..he woke up..got a book and quietly sat in the only room with a light on waiting for his Mommy.....to scare me that is! I jump out and scare Danny all the time...so, like son like Mama! I wish you could have been here......funny big time!! He has this awesome belly laugh. Danny says he sounds exactly like me. All I know is that Paul is silly just like me. I love it and wouldn't want it any other way!!!

Mario's Miracle Shot......

2008-04-11T08:16:00.003-05:00

heard all around the sports world on Monday, April 7, 2008!!! With a couple of seconds left in the NCAA Championship game--KU's Mario Chalmers hit a 3 pointer to tie the game and send it into overtime!! Amazing!!! Kansas had life and I had a feeling we would win in OT! Danny was in Houston so his cousin Roddy went with me to the game..at the Alamo Dome! We ate dinner at Rosario's beforehand.....drinks included. Then we walked over to the dome and cheered on my boys to victory! It was one of the best college bb games ever!!!! Mario's shot might be the best and biggest shot ever in KU's history! The celebration started and I cried a little when the clock hit 0! We stayed for the celebration, post game remarks, presenting of the trophy and the traditional showing of ONE SHINING MOMENT on CBS!

Speculation quickly went to Coach Self possibly leaving KU and head to coach his alma mater--Oklahoma State. Those damn media people---can we please enjoy this incredible moment?! Coach Bill Self announced yesterday--he is NOT going to talk with OSU and will remain at Kansas. I knew he would--at least for now. OSU is not a premier bb program like a KU, UNC, Duke, Kentucky, UCLA.

We had 2 Memphis fans infront of us during the game and she thought my screaming was a bit loud. She actually asked me to pipe down--uh no! This is is national championship game girlfriend...move if you don't like it! And I went bizerk when we took the game to OT--b/c Memphis had it won with 2 min left in regulation. We showed great poise and skill and took the game from underneath those pesky Memphis Tigers. ROCK CHALK JAYHAWK--KU WINS and WE'RE #1!!!!!!

This was a season of destiny.......and those who know college BB understand why. I cannot wait to get my National Champions t-shirt!!

Here is a picture of downtown Lawrence, KS--home of the KU Jayhawks after we won! Party on friends!!!!

Kansas Beats Tar Out of UNC

2008-04-06T16:23:00.003-05:00

Did you know that Kansas beat UNC last night?! That's right--down with Roy and his boys--AMEN
See people....we don't need to play with Roy--when we can play our Self!!! :-)

My Kansas Jayhawks Are Playing for the National Championship!

2008-04-06T15:14:00.002-05:00

ROCK CHALK JAYHAWK...GO FIGHT WIN! Awesome time at the Final Four last night. My co-worker and I got downtown around 4 and had some cold drinks at Rosario's before walking over to the Alamo Dome. Memphis and UCLA played the first game. Not as exciting as one would have thought for a semi-final Final Four game. I cheered for Memphis. They are big and athletic and easily won the game. Then, 45 min until my boys came out! Tip off was amazing and scary all at the same time. KU jumped out with a 31-10 lead. What in the world was going on with NC?! I was dumbfounded--but at the same time--THRILLED beyond words! They fought back and we went into halftime with a 17 point lead. I know the second half would be different. It was...... towards the end of the game, NC got within 4 points--but that was the closest they got--we pulled away and finished them off!!!! Final Score: KU 84 - NC 66. Yeah baby!!! I screamed and yelled so much my throat hurt. I was all decked out in my KU attire too! I had lots of fun and it was electrifying to be there--at the Final Four. What a rush!!!! I am going tomorrow night for the Championship Game. It will be tough but I think our boys will be ready! Beak 'Em Hawks--beat Memphis!!!

Danny took Paul to the zoo yesterday morning while I cleaned and did laundry. I also ran a ton of errands before leaving for the Final Four. More chores today and enjoying play time with my super fun little boy. I know I am bias, but he IS sooooo much fun to be around. He laughs like I do..and loves to be active and social. Gee, where does he get those traits?! You have to see his fish face---it will crack you up!

Danny leaves for Houston at 6:30am tomorrow. I have some appts at work, but otherwise will be focused on tomorrow night and prob won't be too productive at work.......oh well. Tomorrow night is HUGE!!!

We had our 6 month meeting with the gals from Brighton Thurs morning here at the house. We all agree that Master Paul is doing better but still has a long way to go with his pragmatic language skills. One of the therapists again suggested we get him tested for Autism. If it is an underlying factor, it has to be the high functioning type. But his pediatrician and us do not feel he has any type of Autism. He will continue to receive therapy from Brighton's ECI Program until he is 3--which is June 16. At that time, the school district takes over his speech therapy. I am hopeful we can get him where he needs to be in time for kindergarten.

I need to go clean up our bedroom...put shoes away and hang up some clothes and dust...and then vacuum once Paul awakes from his nap.

GO KANSAS! I know all my friends and family will cheer for KU! I am already nervous for the game tomorrow night...8pm!!!!

131 Posts

2008-03-30T14:31:00.003-05:00

Hola peeps!

It's been another busy week for me. Danny was in Houston Mon-Wed night. So it was Paulie and I hangin together. Monday night he really missed his Daddy and wanted to sleep with me...I obliged my little man. He slept great, me on on the other hand..not so much. Work is great, just lots of networking events and appointments.

Thursday was the first day of another Women's ACTS retreat. I was on the Home Team and had to go out to Cordi Marian Retreat Center around 5:30 to help set up and serve dinner to 75 women. It is always wonderful to be around ACTS sisters. We had a lot of fun as usual. I even had some special one on one time with my good friend JoAnne. She served as the Spiritual Director for the retreat--a position I had last April. So, I complete knew all her preparation and what she was feeling Thursday night before the women arrived.

I will have to come back to this entry...... time to get ready for my ride. Peter and Martha are coming at 3:15 --and we're all going out to Fatso's on Bandera to watch the Kansas vs. Davidson game at 4. If we win--the boys come to San Antonio next weekend for the FINAL FOUR--and I am going--courtesy of my new employer!!!

The Easter Bunny Used a Key

2008-03-23T10:19:00.005-05:00

Being so busy with work and Danny traveling, I failed to decorate my house for Easter. This is a real shame b/c I have a lot of cute decorations. I did manage to get items for Paul's Easter Basket and a card for Daddy from Paul. And Hallmark has this new "brilliant" idea. A key you can leave for the Easter Bunny outside so he can get into your home and leave the goodies. So, here is our key for the Easter Bunny and he did come and left Paul some treats!

Paul really seemed to love the Sweetart Jelly Beans......and had some stick to his teeth and the roof of his mouth.....
We're taking Paulie to see Horton Hears a Who today at 11:30. He and Daddy are playing right now in the family room. Then home to watch the Texas bb game. They play Miami and if they win, will join Kansas in the SWEET SIXTEEN! I was sorry that KSU and A&M lost. Damn those Big 12 schools..not hanging with this big boys!!

My high school classmate and friend, Rich Berra, is a morning show DJ in Arizona. Some of you might recall he jammed on stage with Enrique Iglesias in October. Well, he has done it again. This is the email I received from him earlier this week...

"I went in the studio with Jesse McCartney Friday at the Disney Studios to record a different, possible RADIO RELEASE of a single they are marketing. I am playing the guitar here and wrote the progression. Here's the acoustic version of the single, LEAVIN'. I hope you dig it and tell your friends to go grab it on ITUNES over the next few weeks. Peace and Love to all..." I now have the single on my IPOD and it is really good. Click hear to listen. The only instrument you hear is the guitar and that is my friend Rich playing! See Rich in the yellow shirt! Way cool I think!!!! I have to be honest..hadn't heard of Jesse McCartney until Rich sent this email.

We went to 8am mass this morning. I saw my ACTS sister and co-worker, Nora. This is too weird... We went to lunch last week I mentioned I am turning 39 this year..and she said, "so am I!" -- July..her too. July 21...her too! I have NEVER met someone who was born July 21, 1969! She is 4 1/2 hours older though. Too bizarre for words. She is a love and was on the ACTS team in Aug 2004 when I was a retreatant. She works for my friend Cathy Starnes in the Benefits Division.

Yikes..almost time to leave for the movie. I need to get ready...

Let Peace Begin With You.....

A Divided House and Other Susan Happenings!

2008-03-16T10:27:00.005-05:00

The Big 12 Tournament started on Thursday. I went to Fatso's Sports Bar Fri night to meet up with fellow Kansas alums to watch KU beat Nebraska. Then, KU beat A&M AGAIN (down with the Aggies!) yesterday to be eligible to play for the Tourney Championship today at 2pm. Who do we play....Danny's alma mater--Univ of Texas! So, we're a house divided today. We cannot and will not watch the game together. I will head to Fatso's to cheer on the Jayhawks with all the other fans!

I went to 8am mass this morning (Palm Sunday--beginning of Holy Week) and Danny is going to 11am. We went to dinner at Carino's last night with a group of friends for Barney's birthday. Danny and Barney has been friends since kindergarten. That is a SUPER long time!!

I will write more tonight. I need to go play with my son. I might take him outside in the backyard to run around and play. Danny just left for mass. Paul is watching a DVD I got a couple months ago....Word World. He is laughing..belly laughs! If only you could hear him right now.....suh sweet!

Lady With Migraine Needs Help....

2008-03-06T21:15:00.003-06:00

UGH---came down with a migraine yesterday afternoon around 4. I came home around 5:00, barfed, stripped down (cause I was hot and perspiring profusely) and put the ceiling fan on. Called Danny to let him he was picking up Paul. Took some prescription meds and went to sleep for 2 hours. Still today a lingering headache...mild migraine..but oh so darn annoying!!! Awful feeling indeed and made worse b/c I missed GNO and we were going here to celebrate Tina's birthday. So sorry I had to miss it!

I did not pass my license exam on Monday. Missed it by 3 lousy questions. In other words, three more correct answers and I would have passed! It is HARDER than it was 8 years ago and the license/legal dept at my company did not give me the proper material. BUT NOW I have another study guide book and it should help. I am taking it again this Monday at noon.

I need to hit the hay folks. Difficult to find the time to write blog entries.....since going back to work! A final note--my Kansas Jayhawks beat Texas Tech (sorry Terrence) by a whopping 50 points on Monday night...college basketball for those non sports fans. But seriously, how can you not love college basketball?! I am so ready for March Madness! The FINAL FOUR is here in San Antonio this year. Come on KU---get here already!

TGIF - tomorrow!

Cardinal, Bishops, Priests OH MY

2008-03-01T18:00:00.005-06:00

Monday brought something super exciting for this Catholic girl. Cardinal DiNardo (of Houston-Galveston) was the keynote speaker at the CTSA Luncheon--my boss Nick asked me to take his place at the company table. Danny went too and we sat 6 feet from the Italian priest. He was an excellent speaker and I had a wonderful time! I also saw Father Leopold, Fr. Jimmy Drennan (he married us) and Bishop Flannagin. Lots of nuns and other priests present too!

I spent a lot of the week studying for my license exam. I wanted to take it Friday, but things got messed up at TDI and I am scheduled for Monday at 1pm. Please pray for me--I need to pass this and get going making some sales!

Wed night was GNO and we went to Alamo Cafe. It was nice and the food is decent. I was awfully tired and was home around 9:45 or so. Lots more to write about, my time is so limited now. OH, and I might add that I am going to Fatso's n Bandera tonight to watch Kansas play K-State. Martha and Peter are picking me up around 7:15..and I have things to do beforehand.

Paul had a good week at school. They have added a third teacher in his classroom and are moving up 2 children on Monday. So, I think we'll be back to 15 kids and 3 teachers--awesome! Although I don't think the third teacher is going to stay forever. She might go into another classroom.

Danny took Paul to the zoo this morning so I could do some chores. I have a cold and didn't have much energy--but I got lots done..and then took an hour nap. Got a manicure and my eyebrows waxed a little while ago. I plan to study for a few hours tomorrow afternoon and again Monday morning before my exam.

Can u tell I am in a hurry..this entry is not very interesting or fun. Sorry.

Happy 84th Birthday Mary Esther Niño

2008-02-24T17:23:00.004-06:00

Today is my MIL's 84th birthday. She lives in Friendswood (Houston) with Danny's brother and his family. I had the idea about 2 weeks ago to drive on Sat and surprise her! Veronica and Chris thought that would be great. So, we left yesterday around noon and traveled to their home. Marisa and Daniel were so excited to see us at the door..they didn't know either. Mom was in her room with the door closed and after we knocked and she said come in....Paul went running into her room and over to where she was sitting with a big smile and a big HI!!! She was VERY surprised and even cried a little. We all went to 5pm mass then back to the house for an awesome dinner..steak, salad, potato and all the trimmings. Oh and wine and cake and spinach dip! Veronica's parents came and her brother and his family. They are live in the area.

I played Wii Sports and had fun with the kids..as usual. They think I am silly and fun to be around. I don't disagree! Paul was laughing hysterically every time I knocked down all the bowling pins. Tennis is fun..but a real workout!!! I knocked a few home runs too. I don't think the kids really know how much of a sports fan I am and that I am decent!! Although Daniel remembers my trip there in July---I was the soccer stud of the day!

We got Mary Esther a GINOBILI SPURS Jersey--she loved it and put it on right away. She loves her SPURS, but living in Houston..she doesn't get to see them too often. Here she is....gotta love #20!!!

We got up this morning and all went to Cracker Barrel for breakfast--yummy! Here is a group picture of the family. Little Daniel is almost 7 and blinked..but this is still the best one! Chris is Danny's older brother and his wife Veronica. Marisa is 11 and a girlie girl! Mom, Me, Paul and My Danny. We got back home today around 3:30. Thank you to the Zimmerman's for keeping Miss Oreo while we were away. It saved us $50! We owe you T, T, Z and M!!

I am going to study tonight b/c I plan to take my practice exam tomorrow at work..for my insurance license. If I do ok, I will take the real exam on Friday! Pray for me please. I need to pass and get this over with..so I can start making money.

It is HOT here today....something like 85! I am not in the mood for this weather. Give me 65 and sun please!

Have a joy filled and productive week friends!

Tuesday

2008-02-19T19:36:00.004-06:00

First--the answer to the trivia question from yesterday. Seventeen Presidents have occupied the Oval Office. William Howard Taft was the first one to walk into the Oval Office in 1909.

I picked up Paul around 5:15. He had a good day until about 4pm. Apparently he didn't nap today..kinda strange..so on the playground he got mad at a little boy and bit him on the back. UGH! As we left his classroom I cried. Ms. Susan called me later to say..no worries. That was nice of her to call and comfort me.

Paul and I ate dinner together and watched Dora and some Barney. We also played with his train set and played fetch with Miss Oreo. He is now in bed. Praise God! My Mom and Wayne sent him a $10 giftcard in his Valentine card..I purchased 2 Dr. Suess books at Target. He LOVES the one titled: One Fish Two Fish Red Fish Blue Fish We read it tonight and 3 other books..then off to sleep. I am WIPED OUT! I am going to study for about an hour and then go to bed. I only got about 5 hours of sleep last night. I need 8!!!!

I leave you with this tonight......
John 13:34-35 says, "I give you a new command: Love each other. You must love each other as I have loved you. All people will know that you are my followers if you love each other."

The Men of the Oval Office

2008-02-18T18:04:00.004-06:00

Many of you know that I taught US History, World History and US Government to high school teens..loved it!! So, here is some President's Day trivia for you......how many of the 42 U.S. President's have occupied the Oval Office? Answer to be displayed tomorrow...
Some of my favorite President's..for reasons I won't bore you with....George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, James Madison, Abe Lincoln, Theodore Roosevelt, William Taft, FDR, Dwight Eisenhower, Richard Nixon, Ronald Reagan.

We kept Paul home from school today so we could be around him. Danny decided to take him to the zoo this morning around 10. Paul tried popcorn for the first time and loved it! I was busy making calls, laundry, dusting and filling out some paperwork for my new job.

While Paul was napping, I went for a 40 minute walk. Strutting along as I listened to my IPOD and enjoying the nice sunny weather--I wondered--how will I fit in exercise with this new job?!

I am headed to church shortly for our Parish Mission. It is this week and tonight Father Bruce is speaking to us about The Crib - where God inserts Himself into our lives. Father Bruce is a young Redemptorist from Philadelphia. Also a nice time to see all my ACTS Brothers and Sisters!

Here is my little Oval Office Man-taken today while hanging out with Mommy and Daddy!

New Job, GNO,Valentine's Day and Food-OH MY

2008-02-15T20:08:00.005-06:00

It' s been a super busy week. I started my new job on Wednesday. The people at my new job couldn't be nicer and more excited to have me on board. Especially the 3 gals who are my support staff in the Personal Lines Department...Jacki, Nicole and Linda. Fabulous women who are filled with TEAM SPIRIT---GO TEAM!!! The alarm went off at 6:30. I left the house at 7:30 and arrived at work at 8am. It's only 11 miles, but the traffic that time is not so pretty. I of course wore 3 inch heels and the balls of my feet were SCREAMING and BURNING by lunch time. My poor 'ol feet need some time to adjust to this again. My friend Lori also said to purchase a pair or two of cushion inserts for the heels...they really do help she says!

Danny was surprised that I was game for going out for GNO. Damn straight I was....I had a good day and was full of team spirit and enthusiasm. How could I waste all that energy being at home?! :-) We went to a place that opened in Nov in Alamo Heights called Merchants Grand Cafe. I arrived first at 7pm. I sat at the bar and ordered wine. Shortly after, a couple came in and sat next to me at the bar. They looked familar to me. I started talking to them about college basketball. Duke was on the TV playing Maryland...I was cheering for Duke. This was good b/c the man gradiated from Duke. I told him I was a KU grad and off our conversation went. Introductions came and I said, "yes, I know you both!" Alison and Derrick Fox. Alison is the VP of Community Relations for the SPURS and the Exec Dir for the Spurs Foundation. Derrick is the CEO of the Valero Alamo Bowl. They both do phenominial at their jobs which rally help our community! It was their anniversary and their 2 boys..ages 12 and 11...were at a boy scout meeting so they were slamming down wine and eating some pizzza. (their words exactly)
Then all the girls started arriving and we eventually sat down for dinner and laughs! Tina, Michelle, Judy, Maile, Courtney, Adrienne and myself were all in attendance. GREAT food and awesome fellowship. A really FUN time indeed!

I also ran into Kate Crosby who I had worked with at Frost Bank. She is still there and this restaurant is owned by her sister and brother in law. They were there celebrating a birthday. Small world!! Well truth be told...SA is a small town..with 1.4 million people...but I am always running into people I know. Maybe it's b/c I am in sales, been involved in numerous charitable events and will talk to anyone or anything. Shoot, I could probably make friends with a post or bar stool! Does anyone agree with that statement about me?! Then a pit stop at HEB (at 11pm) and then on home to get some sleep.

I need to come back to this post and write about Sweetheart's Day and today. It's 8:30 and I need to rest and have a chocolate covered strawberry!

I'll continue starting with Valentine's Day. Got to work and had all kind of sweets on my desk. Danny called and wanted to have lunch with me. He picked me up and we went to Tai Pei for a nice lunch and conversation. Met Danny and Paul at home around 5 and off we went to Trilogy to have a yummy dinner. Our friend from church had given us a $50 gift card and we were using it that night. Paul LOVES their pizza! I had wine, we had an appetizer and nice meals. Paul was funny and behaved very nicely. We didn't take our time b/c I was so tired and only wanted to get home and relax. For the past 10 years Danny has gotten me chocolate covered strawberries from Central Market. I love them and they are dressed up in cute little tuxedos! I usually eat all but one -- that one is for my sweet brown boy...Danny!

Friday was a good day. Studied for my license exam and continued to meet great people at work. A group of us went to Chester's for a bday lunch. Since I am Catholic and it was Friday--no burger for me. I had a grilled cheese and fries! Jacki drove her suburban. Three of us in the WAY back...3 in the middle, and 2 up front. It was almost like riding on a roller coaster on the way there....let me explain. Connie, Nicole and myself were in the WAY back...third seat. And see..it wasn't locked and when Jacki did something....our seat went up and back and we all thought we were headed out the rear end of the vehicle. I think we all screamed. Thanks Jacki..my third day on the job and she already wants to be rid of me! :-)

Finally, around 4pm, my friend Lori invited me to go with her to Carrabba's. She was seeing an old friend of ours from Frost. He now works for Plains Capital Bank and will be a great referral source for us. I was so tired...but I went. And voila...he wants me to call him Tuesday and he will give me his Traveler's policy numbers and I can take them over with a simple signature on what we call a Change of Agent form. It will be a nice acccount and he will be able to refer me some good prospects. I got home around 7 and was pooped. I was glad I went..and Lori paid for my drink!

Today was chores and a trip to Fatso's Sports Bar to watch KU beat up on Colorado. We won by something like 30 points!!! Danny is out with his cousin Roddy and I am headed to watch some tv. Tomorrow we are going to the KLRN champagne brunch at the Hyatt Hill Country Resort...sitting at the SWBC table. And then tomorrow night, we ahve our monthly Teams of Our Lady meeting over at Vicki and George's home. Whew...thank goodness Monday is a holiday!

Father-Daughter Ball

2008-02-11T22:59:00.000-06:00

Here is my brother, Tom, and my pretty little niece Lauren. They attended the Father-Daughter Ball at her school Friday night. Lauren is in first grade and loves to get dressed up. She is silly..like her Aunt Susan and Cousin Paul! They live in Littleton, CO.

Danny has Walking Pneumonia

2008-02-10T15:42:00.001-06:00

It has been a long and difficult week. Danny started getting sick over a week ago and on Sunday, Feb 3 visited the Texas Med Clinic and was diagnosed with the flu. Ordered to stay in bed for a few days. He only got worse during the week and so he finally went to see our doctor who said he now had a severe ear infection AND walking pneumonia. More bed rest and more meds. I think we have spent over $400 on Danny's medical issues the past 12 days with dr visits and medications. Yes, ALL out of pocket. UGH! A real scary moment was this past Thursday night when Danny had a temp of 104 and the shakes and chills. That high of a temp is not good! And since he has been sick for more than 10 days--no help with Paul or around the house. I am worn out. Not exactly how I wished to start my new job--which begins this Wednesday.

I took Miss Oreo to the vet Friday morning for her annual checkup and shots. She was a trooper. The vet tech and dr oooed and ahhed over her. She is a sweet and cute dog. Her weight is perfect...29.8lbs and she is healthy. The only thing was her left ear had a bunch of brown and black wax and guck. Dr. Antosh cleaned it out and suggested we might have to clean her ears once a week. No biggie--I can do that!

I took Master Paul to the zoo this morning. We had a fun time walking around and visiting all of our animals. It started getting pretty crowded as we headed out. That is why I love to go around 9 and leave at 11am.

I still feel a litlte punk. I cannot shake this congestion and tiredness. Paul just woke from his long nap. I need to run 2 errands. Danny is feeling a little better...well enough to get out of bed and watch the SPURS play this afternoon. Although--they lost. :-(

From 1 Corinthians 13, "Love....does not seek its own advantage....."
Teach your heart to swim in the ocean of love. Do not take yourself too seriously! His Will includes our happiness here and now. Surrender to Him, and ask Him to teach you how to love and be joyful. AMEN

A Little of This...A Little of That

2008-02-03T17:02:00.001-06:00

Busy week in the Niño home. Sick people, movies, getting jobs, chores, being sick, college basketball games, being sick, visiting drs....

GNO this week was Courtney, Tina and myself. Camino Ranch Cafe and then a movie. We saw Atonement and I liked it...not exactly a girly movie for GNO----maybe better for another night..but nonetheless, a good flick. And I went to see Juno this afternoon. Loved this movie!

Texas won this weekend as did my Kansas Jayhawks. However, KU lost to KSTATE on Wed night and about crushed me. No worries, we are 21-1 and ranked #2 in the country.

Danny has been very sick since Thursday. I tried to get him to visit the TX Med Clinic yesterday..you know how men are when they are sick...STUBBORN!!! BUT--he is even worse today, so he is now at the Med Clinic and I won't be surprised to learn he has the flu! Paul is getting breathing treatments and another round of antibiotics for his ear infection. He is doing much better this afternoon and will go to school tomorrow. I kept him home last Monday and again on Friday.

2008-01-29T10:10:00.000-06:00

Max Lucado said this:
"Deprive your body of necessary fluid, and your body will tell you. Deprive your soul of spiritual water, and your soul will tell you. Dehydrated hearts send desperate messages. Snarling tempers. Waves of worry. Growling mastodons of guilt and fear. You think God wants you to live with these? Hopelessness. Sleeplessness. Loneliness. Resentment. Irritability. Insecurity. These are warnings. Symptoms of a dryness deep within. Treat your soul as you treat your thirst. Take a gulp. Imbibe moisture. Flood your heart with a good swallow of water. Where do you find water for the soul? "If anyone thirsts, let him come to Me and drink."

I had a weekend filled with spiritual water. First, a day retreat on Saturday for all of us Stephen Ministers. It was an awesome day and always great to be refreshed and renewed! Second, Sat night was the first team meeting for a new group of couples beginning Teams of Our Lady. Danny and I are the Pilot Couple--which simply means we nourish the team and get them on the road to an awesome journey---as married couples. Third, we had our own TOOL meeting Sunday night with our wonderful team. We had our re commitment ceremony--we're starting our seventh year! The champagne was yummy and the couples on our team are all phenomenal!

The only low part of the weekend is that our little man had fevers and is sick with another ear infection and a cough! I kept him home yesterday from school to rest another day, but he is there today. He has had no fever since late Sunday night.

TGIF

2008-01-25T13:39:00.000-06:00

Let's RODEO San Antonio! The annual Cowboy Breakfast was this morning to kick off the 2008 Stockshow and Rodeo. We're going to take Paul this year as we think he will enjoy it.

Wednesday night took 4 of us out for GNO. We visited Johnny Carino's for some nice grub and red wine. Good meal and good conversation. It was a cold and dreary night outside though...thank goodness the wine warmed me up! Thursday was another day to run errands and I completed a profile assessment for the position at SWBC I am tyring to obtain. Then I took Tina and little Makayla to visit Bless Your Heart. Jewels, Shoes and Purses..OH MY! Miss M had fun trying on all the jewelry, shoes and diamond tiara's...love this girl! One would think she belongs to me?! I wanted to buy a couple of gifts. Scored an awesome necklace for my friend Rhonda. Her 34th birthday is today and I already tracked over to her house today to deliver her card and gift. She liked the necklace...I may borrow it sometime! :-)

I picked Paul up from school a little later than usual--but he was having fun and they said he had a good day! He and I played with some trains and watched a movie. He is too funny with his words and antics. Again I ask..does he come by this naturally? -- from Danny right?!! Bath and bed by 7:30. Then I watched some TV and was asleep on the couch around 9:30 when Danny got home from CFP class. I woke up at 11:30 and Danny was studying at the kitchen table and I went to the bed.

Had lunch with my friend Donna today. We worked together at Frost a long time ago--she works for Wells Fargo now and is pregnant and due in July. She finds out in 2 weeks the gender..I predict boy! We ate at Red Robin and she treated! She said when I have a job I can pay. :-)

I am off to the grocery store and then will pick up my little man. The cedar is killin he and I this week! UGH! Danny said he'll be home around 5. This is a good night for us all to stay in and snuggle up. Paul loves to snuggle with his parents..."so sweet"---as the lad often says.

Please keep my dentist and brother in Christ, David, in your prayers. He had shoulder surgery this morning. Pray for healing and not too much pain! I plan to call him on Sunday to check in.

Today is also my niece Lauren's bday. She is 7!!! I talked with her a while ago and she was finishing up opening her gifts...sounds like an American Girl soiree! They were supposed to be in CA for her birthday, but Alleson has been sick this week. So she is at home with her folks and said they were going to the rodeo there in Denver this afternoon. Cowgirl Up little lasso!

Peace Out Peeps!

Ths Week's Motto

2008-01-21T10:31:00.001-06:00

If it goes well..this could be my new LIFE MOTTO...

Been so busy praising my Jesus, I ain't got time to die.....!!!!!

What is God’s task for you? Do not let the devil distract you from that into all kinds of empty pursuits and pleasures. His will, his service, the spreading of the good news are at the heart of all who follow Jesus in faith and joy. As believers we are part of that work.

The message to us today is: set aside the time, find a place, take the time to be in a close personal relationship with your God. AMEN

Weekend Roundup

2008-01-20T19:01:00.000-06:00

Friday was a cold and rainy day! We're finally getting cooler temps here in South Texas. Paul had school and it was a tough road getting there. He began to cry when I put him in the car and even more of a whimper when we turned right out of our subdivision. He has figured out where we are going.... More tears and fighting me taking him out of his carseat in the school's parking lot. Clinging to me and crying every step of the way into the building and down the hall and into his classroom. Still crying (and I am about to as well) as I made my way to the door and out the door of his classroom---my tears began to flow and the lips quivered. I stopped by the director's office and stood in her doorway--sobbing and sniffling. Do you have a mental picture yet?! She comforted me and within 4-5 min I was good and ready to head home and get ready for a funeral.

Our good friend Diane's Grandmother passed and the funeral mass was at 10am. A very nice mass with meaningful readings and songs. Diane gave the eulogy and it was quite good and very touching. Good going girl! Then Danny and I ate lunch together at Salt Grass--yummy and good company!! :-)

Paul was shoveling pound cake into his mouth when I picked him up from school. We played blocks and trains and did some sticker therapy until Daddy got home. We had lasagna and then once Paul was in bed, we watched Spider Man 3. The first half was so so---then it got better! IS there going to be a Spider Man 4???

Saturday was chores and hanging with Paul. Jennifer came over to be with Paul and we went up to church to attend the parish's first wine tasting event. As JM said, "I love being Catholic!" Shoot---how many other denominations have wine tastings?! Awesome evening with good wine, food, music, laughs and great fellowship with brothers and sisters in Christ. KUDOS to all those who made the night possible! We left at 9 b/c we had people coming over at 9:30 to play poker. I should have known the usual suspects would be late....finally at 10:30--they all showed up. We served up the chips--$5 ante and away we went. 7/27......low Chicago...5 card draw....3's wild of course....no peek...follow the queen, 7 card stud...3's and 9's wild...FUN FUN FUN! We quit at 1am..I won $1.10...but it was fun and we had some laughs. Danny was a little feisty..even Diane called him on it! And Diane AND Barney called Mike on having his phone between his legs on the chair and texting someone..enough dude--pay attention already! :-)

Will write about Sunday tomorrow--need to give Paul a bath and get him into bed!

Monday morning and Paul is at school and Danny went into his office to work on some financial plans. I am going to be busy doing things around here and am going to watch a movie shortly.

So, Sunday was a nice day! We lounged around in the AM and then I got ready to attend a music ministry concert at our church at 2:30. Holy Trinity is celebrating 20 years as a parish and each month a ministry puts an event. January was the month for our music ministers. Those who sing and play during masses, go to the charities to sing and those folks who have participated in music for ACTS retreats. Even the children sang some songs....way cute and a nice way to spend a Sunday afternoon. My ACTS sister and friend Erin said a solo..AVE MARIA...she was awesome and I was so proud of her! Any my other ACTS sister Katie has an incredible voice. I had no idea the gal could sing! Her hubby sings and plays the piano, but who knew it was a couple thing?! At three o clock we sang/prayed The Divine Mercy Chaplet. A very special time of day for us Catholics. Our own Dan Duet is a recording artist and has a top 10 song right now..Traces of Jesus..which he sang for us. I recommend his new CD! You will be inspired!After the concert--of course...food!! I went to socialize and eat some food! The afternoon was joyful and made me even more ready for the week ahead. A HUGE thank you to my sweet ACTS sister and good friend Meliza for organizing the event! And she has an incredible voice herself. She sang one song a little lower than her usual soprano pitch and I thought, "hmmmm, who knew she could be an alto too!" :-)

I love this song and need to tell Dan that I listen to it all the time on my computer.
CHANGE THE WORLD

Written at the request of the Archdiocese of San Antonio, for the 2001 Archbishop's Annual Appeal. This song was set to debut live at a fundraising dinner that was scheduled to be held on September 11, 2001. The dinner was obviously cancelled. To date (FEB 2007), this song has never been performed in public. Change the World words and music by Dan Dúet© 2001

Take a look around you, tell me what do you see?
A world that is crying, a world in need.
We can’t turn our heads, pretend to look away
For we are chosen, to see, to reach out, to touch,
We are chosen, we are chosen to understand

I have come as a beggar,
I have come on my knees
You can make a difference
you can help me change the world
I have come on my knees

Look into the faces, tell me what do you see?
It’s the same hopes, the same dreams that live in you and me.
You see we’re not so different, it just seems that way
But we are chosen to see, to reach out, to touch,
We are chosen, we are chosen to understand

I have come as a beggar,
I have come on my knees
You can make a difference you can help me change the world
I have come on my knees

Sometimes I know, it’s hard, to reach out, to take a chance
Remember the Voice that’s calling now, the Voice that’s saying
That we are chosen to see, to reach out, to touch
We are chosen, we are chosen, we are chosen to understand

I have come as a beggar,
I have come on My knees
You can make a difference
you can help Me change the world

I have come on My knees I have come as a beggar, I have come on My knees
You can make a difference you can help
Me change the world I have come on My knees, I have come on My knees
Let’s go and change the world, put your hand in Mine
And together you and I… we’re gonna change the world.

Climbing the Spiritual Ladder

2008-01-16T22:35:00.000-06:00

More to be written tomorrow...but before I head to bed......

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
"Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus. " Give thanks IN everything (struggles too) not FOR everything...IN everything! Got it?! Good!!!

Lord, I often feel like the man in the Gospels who asked You to help what little faith he had. Fill my heart with Your gift of faith; let my faith be active and living.

Do you ever pray the Prayer of Jabez? A short, one verse prayer, with four requests, granted by God.
"Jabez cried out to the God of Israel, "Oh, that you would bless me and enlarge my territory! Let your hand be with me, and keep me from harm so that I will be free from pain." And God granted his request."

Rebuke Satan in the name of Jesus. Mark.16:17

Jabez prayed!... when he had a problem, a crisis, he did not decided to go to school, nor to the influenced men, nor to work much harder... He just prayed! Jabez prayed with boldness and perseverance, like Jacob!... When things didn't work out for him, he did not complained, or started a strike or a riot... he just prayed, he cried out to the God of Israel! When Jabez had a hopeless and desperate situation, he prayed God-size prayers... God can do the impossible! (Lk.1:37). Prayer is the fine thread that moves the hand of God... it is the atomic bomb of old times, and of our days!

Happy Monday!

2008-01-14T11:50:00.000-06:00

We took Paul to his first day of school today at Brighton. He cried when he left and so I did too. But I know my little boy---he would get over it rather quickly and have fun! I spoke to one of his teachers around 11 and she said, "he cried for about 10 min then we went outside and he fun and came back in fine and enjoyed circle time and was now playing dinosaurs with two little classmates." Awesome! I am picking him up at 2 today.

Here is Paul going down his slide over the weekend. He loves his KU shirt and if you look closely, he is holding some kind of tool in his right hand. Daddy was tightening some bolts and Paul was helping!

Here is my little man all sweaty from playing in the backyard. Notice his curls?--they come out when he is sweaty! Love 'em!!

Danny and I were officially installed as a Sector Couple for Teams of Our Lady. Here is a picture of all 3 new lead couples for this awesome ministry..taken Sat night in the St. Mark's chapel. Jena and Philip (they are on our team) and Natalie and Dan from St. Mark's parish and team 8.

The Passing of Loved Ones

2008-01-12T14:54:00.000-06:00

Lots of sad news this week. One of our parishioners--married with 2 young children--was killed this week while working on the job. He was electrocuted. Danny's Uncle Gus died Thursday--funeral is here in SA on Tuesday and our dear friend, Diane's Grandmother is on her death bed. (Update---she passed away earlier today/Sunday) I would imagine we'll be getting a call from Diane or Adrian in the near future telling us of her death. Psalm 29:11 says, "The Lord will give strength unto his people; the Lord will bless his people with peace." I know this is a difficult time for Aunt Adela and for Diane and her family. I ask that God grants them peace and the knowledge that through grace--we are all saved and these wonderful people will joyfully meet our Lord and Savior.

I got my haircut this afternoon and love it! We have 5pm Mass at St. Mark's as we are getting installed as a new Teams of Our Lady Sector Couple, along with two other couples. There will be a blessing at the end of Mass and then a 15-20 min ceremony after mass concluding with dinner at Pericos on Sonterra Blvd. with 18 people!

I had successful shopping on Friday purchasing some nice interview clothes on SALE!! Gotta love Chico's, Ann Taylor Loft and Talbot's! I already have all the hot shoes and jewelry and purses! I am sort of an accessory queen..well, at least I think so!

Danny is sad right now because Texas lost to Missouri in basketball. Kansas plays Nebraska tonight at 8. KU should win..being #3 in the country!

Tomorrow will be day filled with getting Paul ready for his first day of school on Monday, and doing some yard work (Danny doesn't know this yet--but he has to get the leaves off the grass!) and I have chores as well!

Today's prayer: Jesus, what joy I feel when I know I have done something to please You. Help me when I am not so sure of myself. It is difficult to believe that Your love does not depend on my good behavior. You love the sinner (me big time) even before she (he) repents. AMEN

Happy Birfday!

2008-01-10T20:35:00.000-06:00

Today is my friend Erin's 32nd birthday! I was able to talk with her for a little bit earlier tonight. I sang Happy Birthday to her..Marilyn Monroe style. I had the hip action going too, but thankfully the only person who saw that was Paul. :-0

Today was a good day. Woke up with a slight hangover--not too bad though, thankfully. Melissa from Brighton came at 8:30 to check on Master Paul and to see how I was doing. She too is very excited that Paul will start school Monday at Brighton. Did I mention already that his teacher's name is Ms. Susan?!

Took the little man to Kid Space around 11 and ventured to Talbots to find some work pants on sale. SUCCESS---purchased a nice pair of slacks for a mere $34..originally $108! I think I got a bargain! Don't worry Debra-I am not going back to my preppy and most conservative dress. But I need some nice classic slacks for work--when that occurs. Then I sweet talked my best buddy Tina into meeting me for lunch at Tai Pei. She had to take Miss Makayla to music class first. We split an order of moo shoo pork--yummy for our tummy!!

Paul took a 2 hour nap and I did some things around the house. After the nap, we went for a walk and then playing in the backyard. Paul has been rather silly today--again, WHERE does he get that trait?!!! Does anyone know?????

He is asleep now and Danny is at CFP class. I am beginning to prepare for my interview on Tuesday morning. SWBC is interested in me for a Personal Lines Sales Producer position. I did this job previously at Frost Insurance, but it has been a few years! :-) I have three decent references..Pat Frost of Frost National Bank. He said, "I would be honored to be on your resume!" Cool---thanks dude! Lori Flores, CIC--commercial insurance sales extraordinaire and Moe Guerrero--Executive Asst to Coach Greg Popovich of the SA Spurs! And no, I did not pay these people to support me....they just like me and know I am a good worker who will do a good job!

*From the book of Wisdom--Chapter 6:13: "Wisdom is glorious and never fades away, and is easily seen by those who love her, and found by those who seek her." We all have within us everything we need to purchase the Kingdom of Heaven. Lord, we reap what we sow. Give us the wisdom to know how to draw joy from sorrow. AMEN

I am off to call a college friend--Carol. We met in a history class at KU in the fall of 1989. She teaches high school in Great Bend, KS and I have not talked with her for a while. She is probably grading papers and watching tv.

As Paul so commonly says these days..."COOL!" Adios compadres!

My Bro

2008-01-09T15:19:00.000-06:00

My brother, Tom, has a new job! He is the Managing Director for Adam James Consulting in Denver. When I emailed him to ask, "what are your duties?"-he replied: "To make the world a better place...." Seriously though---he bills hours to clients and heading up the entire consulting practice, which at this point is in the early stages. "Eventually, I will be more of a project manager and a business development person," says Mr. Thomas Basilico. Praise God for a job and what appears to be a promising future. You and Waz should play some golf when the weather warms up bro! You know Waz (Paul Wosachlo)...."our childhood brother from another mother." In fact, 1976--July, my sixth birthday party..I have a picture of all my friends standing with me and my cupcakes...and Paul is the only boy---a cutie even back then! He has 3 older brothers and a sister...named Susan! I just came across that picture and if I had a scanner..I would scan it and post it here for the world to see! :-)

Paul had a NAET treatment this morning and he and I went to the park and played a little before coming home for lunch. Tonight---GNO! GNO=Girls Night Out. We're going to Bistro Thyme on 1604 near 281 North. I am getting a salad and crab cakes and naturally some wine!

Ahhhh, a little boy is waking from his short nap. Gotta run.... been fun peeps!

Delightful Day

2008-01-08T22:29:00.000-06:00

Took Paul to speech therapy and then off to Kid Space so I could get some much needed errands done. Sheila and Betsy (Kid Space Owners) said Paul had a fabulous day there---3 hours. He played well with others and even stopped himself when he was about to get upset about something. We came home, had a nap and Mommy made some calls. Playing phone tag with the HR guy from SWBC to schedule my interview. After the nap, Paul and I went up to Brighton to meet his teachers and give the director our paperwork. Paul wasn't too excited as we approached the door--somewhere new I suppose. We also went outside to the playground where his classmates were and had a little fun. he seemed to be intrigued with his classroom. His first day is Monday...and we will take him at 8:40 so he can enjoy the large group activity for 20 min before they head outside to play. It's going to be hard for me taking him there knowing that one day soon (possibly) he will be there all day and not with me! I seriously think the adjustment period is going to be rough for me. I have been with him for 2 1/2 years! Originally I had told Danny that he does not need to go with us Monday--but I told him tonight--YES PLEASE go with us on Monday! He of course said, "no problem," and hugged me tight as I cried when I asked him. Somebody get me a tissue please..cause I am about to cry now.

So, on that note..off to bed! Oh, I did have fun sitting with Zachary and Makayla tonight. We watched SURFS UP---I didn't care for it much. Then I watched The Biggest Loser. Curtis and Mallory got eliminated. They fell below the yellow line and the other folks voted them off. Tina came home from her meeting and we chatted for a bit----poor thing---I yawned about 20 times. I hope you didn't take offense to it Ms. Tina---just a long day and I am almost 39! :-)

Peace Peeps!

Top 10 Things I Learned in 2007

2008-01-05T20:16:00.000-06:00

10. There are many hilarious things one can find and view on YOUTUBE.

9. Hillary Clinton asked the public to help pick her official campaign song. Here are a few of the public's suggestions: The Theme from Shaft. Its Too Late Baby. Devil with a Blue Dress.
She's Cold as Ice. The Bitch is Back.

8. Paris Hilton was offered community service, but the community declined.

7. On July 27 in Milwaukee--three men backed a stolen vehicle through the glass front of a gas station. Their intent was to steal an ATM. But they didn’t realize that ATM's are bolted to the ground. After some thought, they tied a rope around the machine and attached it to the vehicle, but still could not dislodge it. They left empty-handed. The ATM was still in working order the next day. Oh those STUPID CRIMINALS!!!

6. Man shoplifts Wal-Mart watch in rectum--those folks from Louisiana are funny!
A 39-year-old Ponchatoula man was arrested Tuesday after he allegedly attempted to steal a wristwatch, which he allegedly hid inside a body cavity. He admitted he had not, in fact, left the property in the stall, but had carried it with him in a very, very dark place. He then voluntarily removed the watch from his rectum. (and I think it was sold on EBAY!)

5. Cheese consumption in the United States is expected to grow by 50 percent between now and 2013.

4. A substance called resveratrol, also found in red wine, protects mice from obesity and the effects of aging, and perhaps could do the same for humans. AWESOME DUDES!

3. The queens of bee, ant and wasp colonies that have the most sex with the largest number of males produce the strongest and healthiest colonies. (gotta love baking cakes!)

2. Tapping your toes in the men's room would acquire a previously hidden meaning.

drumroll please.....
1. One cannot lose 30 pounds when they continue to eat donuts, brownies, wine, beer, pizza, Chesters Hamburgers, Fried Chicken, French Fries, rolls and candy..coupled with basically no exercise routine!

Exciting News in the Niño House

2008-01-04T13:11:00.000-06:00

My Kansas Jayhawks won the Orange Bowl last night. I think the win shocked the sports world..but not us die hard supporters! So awesome!!!

Stephanie from the Brighton Day School called yesterday---there is a spot for Paul right now! He will start January 14 and go everyday. Not sure of the time I will have him there. By 9am each day and maybe 4-5 hours. Then when I get my job, we can extend the hours and it shouldn't be too much of a disruption for my little man. It is all coming into place...with Paul anyway! I sent off my resume to SWBC today. They have position I am most interested in. My friend Cathy if the CEO of the Employee Benefits Consulting Division and will forward my resume, along with her support, to the right person. And Pat Frost has agreed to be a reference for me.

Tonight we have a Teams of Our Lady meeting with the other sector couples to plan the installation mass--which is next Saturday at St. Mark's. UGH! Do I really have to face Father Kevin--you know--the one who NEVER responded to my 2 page letter regarding my son and his pre school! I guess I will have to give him Grace---help me Lord! Tomorrow I need to get all the Christmas decor put away. And on Sunday, I visit The Haven and The Laurels again to offer communion to the elderly. I do have to prepare a reflection on the Gospel reading for Sunday. So much to do...but not always enough time!

1 John 4:8 says, "The person who is without love does not know God, for God is love."

"Love is a basket of bread from which to eat for years to come. Good loaves....fragrant and warm miraculously multiplied; the basket is never empty..the bread never stale." Catherine de Vinck

Heavenly Father, increase our love, and our joy. AMEN

Happy New Year Bloggers, Friends and Family

2008-01-02T12:23:00.001-06:00

2008 is upon us and I know we can all look forward to an exciting year!! You have the power to make that happen! I will age to 39 later this year and Danny will ripen to 43. Master P will turn 3 which means potty training will occur in 2008!

Danny, Paul and I met our friends Tony, Letty and Miss Mackenzie for dinner New Years' Eve. It was nice being with them. We have spent many New Years together. If I had to count them..I would say somewhere around 7 or 8. And I have only lived here for 10 years! Back home Danny gave P a bath and off to bed. I headed out around 8:30 to a party at Stan's house. He has a new home at Bitters and Huebner and it is gorgeous and the perfect home for a family--not for a single man of 57! :-) I used to work with Stan and my friend Lori still works with him and they invited me. Danny said sure--as long as I was home around 11:30. DEAL!!!

The party was fun. I talked with some nice folks and of course hung out with Lori. I even met Christy Prescott who owns her own travel company and is very successful. After talking with her for about 10 min she asked for my resume. I mentioned I was going back to work in 2008. She is on the board for the Family Justice Center Foundation and they are interviewing for an Exec Director next week. She is serious, although I do not think I qualify for the position. It pays so well, that Danny could stay home! :-) So, I am sending her my resume tomorrow after I tweak it a little. If anything--I can get some interviewing experience..it has been 3 1 /2 years!

Made it home safely around 11:30. New Years Day brought college football games..yeah Mizzou and Michigan. The four of us (Oreo too) went to this park/trails over off Nacogdoches. We went for a 60 min hike. It was fun and Paul enjoyed it a lot! Oreo did too--but they were both pooped when got back home.

Took Paul this morning to get an X-Ray done. The ENT and his pediatrician wish to check the size of his adenoids. They think it could be a problem and preventing the fluid from draining from his ears...hence the reason he has 2 ear infections at this time..again!!! He has had lunch and will go down a nap in around 30 min. I have been busy taking ornaments off the tree. I hope to be able to finish it today. We will leave the tree up until January 6. It's a tradition!

Scripture and reflection for today:
Baruch 4:4 "Blessed are we, O Israel; for what pleases God is known to us!"

Love and good cheer go together. More than a century ago, Thomas Carlyle, the English historian, said: "Wondrous is the strength of cheerfulness and its power of endurance. The cheerful man (woman) will do more in the same time, will do it better, will persevere in it longer m than the sad or sullen." Help us, Lord of our heart, to be of good cheer. We know that You love a cheerful giver, and we have a long way to go. AMEN

Susan Takes a Tumble......

2007-12-30T16:36:00.000-06:00

Too bad the video camera wasn't going at the time.... My Mom and Wayne bought me in line skates and I went to get my knee and wrist pads today and I was ready to head out 45 min ago with Paul and Danny around the neighborhood. Well, not more than 10 feet away from the front door....the skates were rolling and rolled too fast for Susan and my feet came up and back I went HARD on my tailbone and back. OUCH. Paul came right over and said, "you OK?" Danny was horrified. So, I came back inside and got myself a cold drink. But don't u worry--it will not stop me from trying again. I guess I need to figure out how to stop and how to fall.

I added some new songs to my IPOD. Check out these songs: Tattoo by Jordin Sparks, Too Little Too Late by JoJo, So Cool...Hollywood by Lumidee, Best Days by Graham Colton, One, Two Step by Ciara, All American Girl by Carrie Underwood.