Merry Christmas!

I wanted to wish everyone a very merry Christmas! I wish I knew how to put cute animations on this... I've seen a bunch of great things... but I can't figure out how to put them on here. Sheesh... If only I knew someone who was computer savvy who could help me! Needless to say, I hope everyone had a great Christmas holiday with their friends and family. More importantly I pray that everyone was able to stop for a moment and remember the reason we celebrate Christmas in the first place.

Ya know, it's hard to celebrate Christmas.... the birth of a baby, Jesus, without reflecting on the purpose for His coming... to die for us. I can't even begin to wrap my mind around the concept.. but I'm so glad God did that for us. It's incredible!

I will post pictures in a few days.... I'll post pictures also of our new curtains. (I'm so excited about them!)

Have a great one!!

Kellee

Good bye sexy specs... hello new daddy!!

Hello to all my readership (though they may be few),

I just wanted to ask that if any one thinks of my dad this evening and tomorrow please say a prayer for him. In the last few years he was diagnosed with diabetes. Diabetics often have to worry about developing cataracts. Well... as it is, my father is not an exception to this statement.

Last year the doctor noticed a cataract developing... and this year at his eye exam said it must come out. So tomorrow is the day! My father will have a double lens transplant. They'll do the first eye tomorrow, and then the second eye sometime next week. If all goes well, then my father will no longer need glasses for every day issues. Instead, he'll be trading them in for reading glasses!

That's incredible! I'm not sure what to think! I have never seen my dad without glasses! I think he said he's had them for 47 (ish?) years!

So we'd really appreciate the prayers, I know he's a little bit anxious since he'll be awake and they're playing with his eyes. Who wouldn't be??

Thanks all! Other than that, on the homefront we're doing well!! Looking forward to Christmas break!

Haven't forgotten about this....

Well I'm back! I know it's been a while. I haven't forgotten about this blog, I just have been so busy.

Last week Jeremy and I were blessed to spend Thanksgiving week on vacation with some of our family and a few friends. We went on an Eastern Caribbean cruise. It was a little more choppy than I like as far as the boat rocking is concerned. But, it was soooooooo nice to leave the snow behind for a week. We didn't take too many pictures, but in the next few days, I'll try to load a few that we did take.

Along with a cruise I did spend a little time reflecting on what I am thankful for. Here is just a short list:
1. The unconditional love of Jesus and the salvation he brings
2. Spending holidays with my husband (you never know how much you appreciate
something so little until you can't actually do it.)
3. Sleeping in on black Friday
4. Good families... both mine and my inlaws
5. Great church home
6. New place to live
7. Steady income that God has provided

Like I said, there are soooo many things I could list.... what are you thankful for this holiday season?

Exercising.....

I spent the better portion of my day with enthusiastic junior high students.

I woke up this morning, only to stand in line for 45 minutes.

I'm exhausted with nothing good to watch on tv.

I'm at peace that God's will, will prevail.


Even with those few statements to sum up my day... I am ever grateful for the right we have to vote. A few years ago I wrestled with the idea that my vote didn't matter... after all I was only one person. I have come to appreciate the right I have to vote.

After casting my ballot early this morning, I was listening to the local Christian radio station. One of the radio personalities just came back from doing missions work in the country of Latvia. He made note that it was a very exciting time for them, their number 1 question that was asked was "if I was going to vote." Why? There are so many countries who DON'T have the right to give their input or opinion. There are other countries who have the right, but it's only be a decade or so since they got that right. Here I am, in the good ole U.S of A.... a few years ago, even pondering if I was going to do that.

I am truly at peace this evening. I'm excited about making history this evening, regardless of who wins. I"m excited that so many people stopped whining and actually put their money where their mouth is by actually voting. NOthing more irritates me than having someone whine about the president... and when asked if they voted, they said no. Silliness, I think!

Anyway, I sit here, grateful to my country for my right. Appreciative of those who have fought, and are fighting to maintain that freedom. Resting in the peace that God has given me that no matter what he is sovereign and in control.

So, even as I wrap this up... if you haven't done so... you still have a 1/2 hour. So get moving!!

How my time is sometimes spent....

Last week, my best friend Katie called me and asked me out on a date with she and her daughter. I love every time we get together! We have so much fun! We met at Dairy Queen. We had a treat, and some great conversation! Katie and Summer, you two girls are the best! I love our spontaneous dates together!


I love this series of pictures. Taking a self-portrait with an infant is not an easy accomplishment! I love Summer's expression in the first one! I think she's pretty sure that I've lost my mind!

Third time's a charm!
Summer is such a good sport!Mom and Baby... they're cute!

Love ya girls!!

Calling all Prayer Warriors!

Hello all in bloggerville!

I just wanted to ask my readership (as few as they may be) to please keep Tricia Lawrenson in your prayers. I've blogged about her before... but here's the fast track. Tricia has CF and was in some serious trouble earlier this year. She was waiting for a double lung transplant, she received new lungs. Shortly thereafter they found out she had a case of Post Transplant Lymphoma Disease (PTLD). She went on a low dose chemo, then a higher dose. They found out this week that the chemo isn't doing any good.

They're very discouraged, and need a lot of prayer. If you want you could stop by their blog and read their amazing story. But even more so, I know they'd appreciate your prayers. They've seen God's hand in amazing ways in the past, now they're asking for the same Physician for healing again.

Please join with me, to pray for this darling family. They're linked up over on the left side of my blog... but I'll also put a link in this post as well that you can click on. Thank you everyone!

Check out their blog site here: http://www.cfhusband.blogspot.com If this link doesn't work, then copy and paste it into your browser. Thanks!

Kellee

Friends, Family and Food = Fun!

Tonight we had a great opportunity for fun! We went to my grandparents' house for dinner. A very sweet lady named Linda was in town. It's actually an interesting story, my grandparents met Linda and her husband Mel when Linda and Mel were on their honeymoon, and my grandparents were celebrating their 40th Wedding anniversary. Both couples were on a cruise and ended up being seated together at the same dinner table. They kept in touch for all these years. Linda is a beautiful lady with the most charming accent. Now, some of my readership out there, may not be facinated by that... since "ya'll" seem to have similar accents. :-) Linda came in from Mobile, Alabama. Unfortunately, Mel passed away earlier this year. They came in about 2 1/2 years ago, and our family met them for the first time. This weekend, Linda came in town again. We just had a great night of fun, family, and food! Enjoy the pictures!!

This is my grandma and her friend Linda! Two very sweet ladies.


Grams and I! Had to play around with the camera!

Everything I know, I've learned from this man... he's teaching me the finer arts of taking self portraits. He actually has it down to a science. I'm still practicing! Goodness! I love this man! I love my dad!

So here I am... trying to take a nice "aww, father-daughter" picture... and this is what my dad is doing. He's such a funny man. Is it any wonder why I love my dad?

If you can't be 'em join 'em!

Nothing like sitting around in your jammies.....

There really is nothing like sitting around in your jammies late in the evening.... grading papers.

Yes folks this is a regular scene here at the Flatt household Monday through Friday. Please, picture this with me... the sound of me typing, perhaps (on rare occasion) some music playing softly in the background, the gentle sound of my computer humming, and the fish tank babbling like a brook.

There is from time to time the occasional phone that rings... it usually brings about a shriek from me proclaiming that it is yet again another student calling because they forgot to write down their math assignment. (But hey, I'd rather have them call, and me question them for their irresponsibility then have them come in and give me 5 reasons why they couldn't do their work.) Then, in a weary state I pack my lunch... stumble off to my lovely bed (which is, by far, my most favorite piece of furniture. It brings me so much rest, relaxation, and comfort.).... only to start it again at 5:30 the next morning.

Now... if you have used your imagination correctly..... the scene looks something like this.....




My husband was the master photographer who captured me in all my element.... *snicker*

My creative side....

For those of you who didn't think it was possible... I do have a slight creative side that I wanted to share with all of you. As I mentioned in a previous post, we had my grandparents, grandmother, and parents over on Saturday for dinner, and fun. I decided I would like a fresh floral centerpiece. So, I got to work.... and this is what I came up with! (Again, this is my attempt to incorporate pictures into my blog. Bare with me, I'm just beginning. And don't worry... it will get more exciting! ...I hope!) Anyway, here's my creation.
The flowers are sitting on a mirror that I salvaged from the wall at our old place. I originally purchased 4 decorative square mirrors at ikea for $5. One of them didn't make the move... so I use the others for center piece accents.

The little glass "vase" is actually my sugar bowl. It works well, I found, for this purpose. It's short, it's glass... it works!

I went for a brilliant, bright fall-y scheme.

I guess I'll just have to keep looking for a new [easy] craft project! Any suggestions to add some decorative pizazz without going overboard, or looking gaudy?

Sandpaper People

So have you ever met someone, worked with someone, or befriended someone who no doubt is a sandpaper person? They just tend to rub you wrong in every way. I have the experience of having at least one of those types in my life right now. It's made my life very interesting. Needless to say, my mom and I have committed the next 31 days to praying for this person.

Never in my life have I had more of a battle with my spiritual nature and my carnal nature. I know God wants me to pray for this person, and yet, the sulking side of me would just like to ignore it and run far away from the situation as soon as possible. But nevertheless, I've made this commitment... and I'm anticipating a good change, and even a miracle. I know God is using this time to grow me. I know God will soften the heart of this other person as well. So, I encourage you, to ask yourself if you have any sandpaper people in your life. If you do, why not commit the month of October to pray for this person in your life. Then sit back and watch.

I will try to keep this situation up to date for those who may also want to pray for me. (Hopefully I'm not your sandpaper person.) And if anyone has some advice or story they'd like to share with me about their sandpaper person, and how you got through it... by all means... please share your wealth of wisdom!

I hope everyone is well!

K

Blessings....

The end of July, the beginning of August God blessed us with a new apartment. I've loved living here, and while we're still getting things together, it's quite nice living here.

Last night, we had a great time! We had my grandparents (mom's side) , grandmother (dad's side) and my parents and sister over for dinner. It was a great time! We enjoyed a menu of Salad, Bread, Pork Loin, Potatoes, Green Beans, Broccoli, and Homemade Tapioca Pudding.

When dinner was over, we even got the Wii out (for the first time in the new place) and played it. We found my grandfather's niche. He did great on Bowling. He even beat my dad! Not only did he bowl, but he boxed and played the homerun derby with me. It was very exciting! Not too mention fun.

Later that evening I was thinking, I wish I would have remembered to get my digital camera out. I think I may try to take more pictures and just have them out. Blogs are way better with pictures. This is my new goal... to take more pics! So, you all can start salivating... waiting for pictures!

Anyway, I thought I'd share how God has blessed us... with a new place, with family.... our jobs.

Carrie Underwood Wonderful-ness

Last night I had such a fun opportunity to go with a friend to see Carrie Underwood in concert. She is truly amazing! She is really a beautiful person with a beautiful voice. Gosh I wish she was a friend of mine! I loved every song she did. It really was a great concert! The only part that made it a little not so fun was the fact that it was a school night and I kept sort of watching the clock checking what time it was thinking about waking up at 5:30. Next time... I will definitely have to try to get it on a weekend!

Anyway, here are a few pics from last night! The pictures just don't do it justice.. but who has time to take them when you're enjoying yourself so much! She apparently got a new stage for the the 2nd half of the "Carnival Ride Tour" and it came with this nifty trap door. I was definitely impressed with her entrance... however I thought it was used a little much after that initial time. From then on I was wondering "when will she pop out next?" or "when will she disappear again into the floor?" It was kind of strange in that sense. But initially it was a cool entrance.
She is beautiful! I certainly couldn't pull of this this dress. Guess I should hit the gym a little more!There was another set of these same steps on the other side of the stage. It made for come cool prancing around!Not a fan of this crazy "lil bo peep dress." Glad it changed into this one:


Not such a good shot, but it you get the picture... waaaaaaaaaaaaaay better!

Anyway... hope everyone is well.

School is going great. Almost done with September, October is a hard month, and then it's pretty smooth sailing after that. So, say a prayer if you think about it. I sure could use it... but don't just pray for me... I'm also asking you pray for my students. Some of them seem to be struggling be it academics or just with family issues. So... think of us often! We want prayers! hehehe... Thanks and good night!

What's on your bookshelf?

This the the book that Jeremy and I are currently reading with our Sunday School class. Has anyone read this yet? It's the follow-up book to the big hit "Love and Respect." It's a lot of the same info, but still it's a good message. So reading it twice really isn't a terrible thing!

So, anyone else reading anything good? I'm particularly interested in hearing if anyone else is reading any good books when it comes to marriage-y type books. For some who may or may not know Jeremy and I lead a marriage themed Sunday School class. We've done it for about 1 year and 1/2... and we're running out of "good books." We're open to any suggestion that people have that they've read and liked. (Please don't give a suggestion if you hated it! Hahaha... I dislike reading enough as it is.)

Oh, the U.S.A

Well, you know I'm sitting here, pondering what a friend wrote on their blog... with the tv in the background with none other than presidential candidate commericials... reading a headline from the yahoo homepage.

I love the fact that I live in this country. And not for a second do I take it for granted. I know that when I was younger... even as recent as 4 or 5 years ago... I definitely took my life here... as a US citizen for granted.

I hate the fact that we in the US have become so desensitized. We forget our roots and the heritage on which we were founded. We have tried everything to have "all the freedom in the world" and yet, somehow I feel like we're more trapped than ever!

I realize that each day is a gift, and that our freedom truly is a gift. The yahoo homepage that I was reading was about a Marine who was supposed to get the Medal of Honor, but instead got a a Navy Cross (the 2nd highest medal as opposed to the highest). Why because they think he may have been shot before covering a grenade with himself. I don't know. I'm sitting here discussing it with my husband (former military), and his thoughts. Now, I know it's probably not as simple as "you died, so here's your medal" but it just seems interesting that this soldier who has given his life... that they're debating if he really should get this medal or not.

I also sit here pondering an alarming statistic... 76 percent of black males who enter high school in Baltimore will not graduate. Again, I sit here and ponder. I'm trying to pick my body up off the ground. Wow! We live in the mighty US and that's a reality?! I just think it spurs me on as a teacher even more to impress the importance of education. It also spurs me on as a Christian... what can I do to change this statistic. Where do I fall into this scheme of things? I know that there are so many countries out there that hail the U.S. as the "rich" people and what not... but here we are... with our own poor, our own uneducated. And what have I or do I do to help reverse this stat. Again, I'm left pondering.

I am also pondering and praying so hard for this upcoming election. Part of me is in denial. That "what I want" will happen. The other part of me, is so annoyed that we still have a month and a half of these commercials. I almost started reading a book this evening. (And for those of you who know me, you know why that makes Jer and my folks chuckle.) I mean, I have so many things that are important to me... and yet it doesn't seem like either one can or will fulfill my wishes. Where does one turn? The better of the two evils? Hmm.... I once engaged in a short political conversation (short because I hate politics) where someone suggested (I think) a great idea. In presidential elections, and other elections as well, there should be 3 distinct categories.... Candidate #1, Candidate #2 and Neither. If the majority picks neither... then both should be thrown out and the process started again. Now, granted, I realize this would throw us into a tailspin of constant election commercials... but, wouldn't it be nice if there were that option?

Again, I wholeheartedly love this country... I am so thankful of it... but sometimes I just sit and ponder. Let me know your thoughts..... (unless they're mean... hahaha)

Hope everyone is well! It's almost Friday and for that I am soooooooo grateful!

9/11... what do you remember?

Yesterday, as most of us know commemorated the 7 year anniversary of a national tragedy. Having a husband who served in the military, I find it very important not to forget. To continue to honor those who are serving our country, and pay respects to those who have made the ultimate sacrifice. I pray continually for a revival of our country, a great spiritual awakening. I pray that God will touch many hearts and we will turn from our wicked ways. For it is then that God promises that He will hear us, and heal our land. Even 7 years later, I believe we could certainly use a healing.

I remember where I was when I heard the news. (It seems like every generation has a "remember when" history in their lifetime.) I had just started my senior year of high school. I was alive, and excited! I was a senior. I remember it started out like any other day. I went to first period like always. It was the beginning of second period when a fellow classmate came in and said "Did you hear? A plane crashed into the World Trade Center." I remember thinking "Oh my goodness!" but not really putting that much thought into it. After all there had been bombs there before, I'm sure this was like that. We carried on with class as normal. Then third period came, and we heard the other tower was hit. That's when we knew something was definitely wrong. There still wasn't a lot of information out there for us... we were at school. I remember I was about to go to the local community college and I was talking to the office staff... they had had the radio on. They told me classes at the college were cancelled because of this. Again, the reality of what had happened started to sink in. It then shifted from an "ok place" to a scary place. What was going on?! Where we next? Towards the end of the day our school had called a special assembly. That's when we heard a censored version of what had happened. That's when I heard the towers were completely down. I just sat there shocked. It had only been a few summers before when I went there on vacation. The size of those buildings was phenominal...and to think they were down... surreal. I left school and headed to work at the local retirement community. It was then that I saw my first pictures of what had happened. Just as I'm sure with everyone, those images will forever be branded on my mind. I remember thinking about nothing else but this tragedy all through work. I didn't know what we needed to do! Do I stop for gas and hope for a better tomorrow? Go to the groccery store and buy all the water and canned goods I could? What was the next step. I got home around 7:45 that evening. I remember just sitting in awe. I remember just asking all sorts of questions. Why did God allow this to happen? Were we safe? What would happen next? My parents and I had a long discussion. We prayed for our country, and the healing that would need to take place. I remember the number of people in church that next day was astounding... especially for a Wednesday! Sunday was even more packed!

Today, I can't help but reflect... it's a good day for reflection. But the one question that continues to go over and over in my head is "what happened to it all?" Not what happened on the day of 9/11... but what happened to the spiritual revival we saw in our country? Whole cities were having moments of prayer, vigils... churches were packed.... but what happened to that? How soon do we forget! How soon have we once again turned our back on the Lord. He's a great crutch for times of need... but when things are going ok... we just pack him back up and wait for the next tragedy. I can't help but wonder what we as a nation are doing to God. We grieve Him so much. He has blessed us time and time again... and yet what do we do? Spit in His face. It's amazing how we want NOTHING to do with Him 99% of the time... and yet when He allows something like this to happen... we ask "where was He when...?" I think it's sad. I can't help but wonder what will we need to happen next for Him to have our full attention again.

God is good all the time. He is loving, merciful and full of compassion.

I pray that we will never forget. Not just 1 day a year, but all year through. Sacrifices are being made each day by soldiers across the globe... and what are we doing here to support them. Remember, nothing is free. Freedom... isn't free. It comes at a great price.

What's your story?

Wooohooo! The big 3!

Well folks, today marks another monumental day!

Today is Jeremy and I's 3 year anniversary. I can't believe it! It seems like so long ago, and yet, it seems like it just happened a few days ago. It's quite humorous, because I remember every last detail of the day... and even though Jeremy was with me for most of it (if you don't know the story, then ask me and I'll explain why... we were together most of our wedding day....) he doesn't remember many of the details. I love that I remember them. It just makes our anniversary that much sweeter.

Needless to say, we've had our times of trials... but with God's power, we've conquered them and come out on top. God has been good, and He is gracious to us.

It's a day like today when I want to thank God for giving me such a patient and loving man. And, it's days like today when I want to take a special time to honor that man whom I love so much.

I find it amazing how well God paired us up. I mean, for every quirk I have, he balances me out... for every quirk that he has I (think I...) balance him out. Jeremy is such a sweet man, who is a hard worker. I could list all of his great qualities but that would take a better portion of my evening.

I love Jeremy... and it is our anniversary.... and for that.... I will make my blog readers look at wedding pictures from 3 years ago! Enjoy!

Wow.... exhaustion

Well, I realized a few things today....

(1) I really screwed up my lay out with that last post. I have no idea if it will ever go back to a normal post. One of the big problems I have is that when I preview it, it looks normal, but when I see what people actually see.... yeah, it's all over the place. Guess someone should tell me what is the proper way to load a youtube video without messing everything up.

(2) The first day of school is exhausting... I don't know if it's the constant talking for 8 hours (of course those of you who know me know that shouldn't be even a factor) or if it's the 5:30 wake up I had. OY! But God is good, and I will get through it. Of course, I will once again be very bitter on Saturdays when I don't get to sleep in. *Humph*

(3) I have an amazing husband. Now, I know every wife thinks they've got the greatest... and I'll give you that... but since this is my blog... I get to tell you why mine is GREAT! He is very loving and supportive of me and what I do (or don't do). He also is incredibly laid back and doesn't get down by things. Sometimes its a quality that bugs me to no end... but in general I know it's a gift from God, because I'm so high maintenance and stressed that it's nice to not really shake him up very often. He's a great guy! And for that... I am very grateful, humbled and blessed.

(4) People when given a clean slate, rise to occasion. I've learned more recently the need to forgive.... and to our best with God's help to forget, but then to allow them to have a clean slate. No matter how much fun it may be to hold it against them. But God is good... and He is gracious... and above all loving and faithful! It is with His strength that we can get through anything.

(5) The need to have a normal life after we have kids. While I won't give a lot of explanation to this, I know too many people who fall off the face of the earth when a bundle of joy comes in. I thoroughly appreciate and love even more those friends of mine who can manage to have their world turned up side down by a pint size version of them... and still maintain a good realtionship with me. Maybe I'm selfish... but.... I know I appreciate those who can juggle both.

Anyways, those are my inspirations for today. I have only 7 1/2 hours until I need to get up... so... I'm going to bed.... 10 hours is best for sleep... and I'm already behind! I hope everyone has a great Labor Day weekend! I look forward to it, as it marks 3 years since Jeremy and I were married. (Officially it's the 2nd, but it was the Friday of Labor day when in faith, we took the plunge!)

Leave some love!

K

Learning experience... and appreciation

So, Jeremy and I are house/pet/Kimmee sitting for my parents while they're on a short vacation in Boston.

I've always known for a long time that they do an awful lot just to keep the family running. When you have a family member with disabilities it changes the family from "stereotypical" to extra-ordinary. :-)

I've grown up with my sister always being disabled. For me, it's never been any different. It's been our way of life. I've often been told stories of just the "bond" that developed even early on, when I was little. Attribute it to being a twin, or just having the best role models. I don't know.

I've seen my parents take care of my sister my entire life... and I guess until now, I've taken it for granted. I knew and I even expressed my appreciation from time to time. But, until you're actually put in that situation, you can't fully understand what it means to be in their shoes. Part of me sort of looks forward to Monday when they will be home and I can go back to my usual [selfish] way of life. Another part of me sort of feels sorry for them.. that this is their way of life. I've never once seen my parents complain, or wallow in thir circumstances. I mean, sure everyone would give a kidney to see Kimmee be normal... but I often wonder how things would be different. Would I even be the same person I am? Probably not. The last bit of me, looks to the future anxiously... Some day in the future Kimmee could be in Jeremy and I's care. Wow... will our life be different.

I know being in a family like ours, has prepared me for a lot of things that life can throw. Each day, since I've been older now... I stop to thank the Lord for my parents. I don't think I could have asked for a better set. I love my parents, and I'm so grateful for all they do for me.... Jeremy... my sister... my family. They are two of the most generous people anyone could know. They face the twists and turns of life with "It's all in God's hands" or "It's not a surprise to God. Hew knew all about this...." mentality.

I pray that my parents will find a bunch of fun, and relaxation during their time in Boston! And it is will full appreciation that I write this blog. If you haven't told your parents today how much you love and appreciate them, I encourage everyone to take a bit of time and do so today.

Thanks MOM & DAD! You two are such great role models for life! You've taught me so much about life, changes, and marriage. I couldn't ask for 2 better people! I love you lots!

Kellee

Buried Alive!

Here I sit in our lovely small apartment buried under a bunch of boxes! Tomorrow is the 1st phase of the move! I've got a small entourage of people coming to help us move. For that I am extremely grateful!

That's where I'd like to focus.... I am so thankful for friends that we have been blessed with. I mean, we're moving during the week which made it difficult to find some people. But we have the sweetest friends who are always there to help. It doesn't matter when or where, they're always there.

I think everyone should have friends like that.

So, needless to say, if anyone is in the area and would like to have a great deal of fun tomorrow, we're starting around 9:30, we'll stop for lunch... and then hopefully we'll be finished! I can't imagine actually being there later than 1 or 2.... but... you never know. We'll take all the help we can get!!

All right, well I don't know if I will be able to post much until next week... Wednesday or so when we get the cable and internet turned on at the new place. So if anyone is looking for me, give me a call. I should have my cell phone with me!

Another Quick Deal?

I'm starting to get used to rushing around for exciting events in our lives! I'm having flashbacks of our wedding when we had 1 month to plan... but this time, we're moving in a week!

So here's how it started.... two weeks ago we realized we should just throw in the towel for house hunting for a year or two and just rent another apartment... but larger. Then we had a friend offer us their house to rent. Two days before it was to come off the market, it was sold. Bummer. Then, we looked at another apartment. We liked it so much that we put a deposit down and were wait listed. Yesterday Jeremy got a call saying it was available August 1. Yeah.. that's next Friday.

Thus... we're moving in a week! Eh... who needs more time than that I guess?! So, now, we'll have a little bit bigger place, we'll have room to actually have people over. So, I'm very excited! I love having people visit! So come on over... and be on the lookout for a card stating our new address very very soon. If you need it sooner, I still will have the same cell phone number so call me on that any time!

Furthermore if anyone is bored at all this week, they can come help me pack. Friday & Saturday we're going to take a lot of little things over there. And Monday the movers will take the big stuff. So anyone want to help, we're not going to refuse the help!

All right, well this is a picture of what the outside looks like we have a "ranch style" apartment. I will certainly post more pictures as they come!

Pushy Sales

So today I went out and about... I was looking at apartments, and gyms.

It's come to the front of our mind at the Flatt household that we need to be proactive against our gene pool. I have diabetes in my family tree, and Jer has heart disease and young heart attacks. Therefore, we've decided to look into joining a gym so we can get buff together! (And who doesn't like being buff!)

We've also come to realize we're quickly outgrowing our 1 bedroom apartment, and will probably need at minimum a 2 bedroom.

Needless to say, I've found 2 annoying types of sales people. The one who "could care less" and the other "the overzealous, gets paid probably on commission" sales rep. With the one who cares less, I think it's funny that they don't really mind if they make a sale or not. I can't decide if they're over confident, or if they just don't get paid on commission. The other one is the one that makes me nervous, and almost claustrophobic. It usually drives me away... I'm scared of those people. I usually just let Jeremy handle them.... I'm a pansey sometimes!

Have you ever encountered these people? What do you do? Any good stories?

Hope you have a good day. I'll keep you posted on what we decide on!

Callin' all wives

All right, Wives out there... young and old... anyone who has anything to share......

I know people read my last post... thought provoking, no? Yet no one left me a comment. Ok, I understand. This post will be an interactive post.

I've been pondering the whole "Love and Respect" relationship. Jeremy and I read it a while back.... and I've been thinking. Does anyone have any creative ways in which I could actively show respect in tangible ways to my husband, Jeremy!

I'm ready for the comments to come flooding in... or stories!

Thanks in advance!! I'm ready to show him some major major love in the way that meets his needs most!

Thanks!

Posing some questions

So, I'm posing some questions. I'd enjoy anyone's comments... positive... negative... (just be kind).

Are optimists often disappointed? Do they live with the glass half full all the time? Do they sometimes see the obvious as half empty as well?

I've often been accused of being a pessimist by my husband. I use to retort "I'm just being realistic." I always tend to prepare for the worst. Anyone who has seen me pack for a vacation can attest to that.

Is there something wrong with perhaps seeing the other side? I feel that the few times that I've blindly followed the optimistic route, that's when I've been disappointed the most.

I know God's timing is perfect, but, I can't help but wonder if I would have been a little more prepared had I not seen the possibility that the glass was indeed also half empty.

Just a few thoughts. I'd appreciate any thoughts. (Even if I don't know you... that's ok.)

American Classic Ending!

Jeremy and I are struggling to stay awake as we watch the summer American Classic... the ALL STAR game!

I'm eagerly anticipating a win from the AL, but I'm not so confident. The NL has been brutal this year.

So, I will be wondering why, with lots of other Americans out there, why on earth I'm staying up so late, when I have to work tomorrow.

I love baseball and the tribe's own... Grady Sizemore (above) and Cliff Lee (below)! They really deserved to go this year. Too bad the rest of the team is poopin' out this year. But hey, we still have the 2nd 1/2 of the season. Anything can still happen!

Attention!

Calling all bargain hunters.

Many of you may know that Jeremy and I have been looking for a house since January. Obviously since I haven't posted that we've found one, we're still looking.

I'd like to ask that if anyone see any houses in the Willoughby/Eastlake, or Wickliffe area, please let us know. Keep your eyes open. I was hoping to be in a house by the time school started back up again, but I doubt that will happen. Not that God can't work miracles... but... we need a little help. I'm pretty sure we've seen every house within our price range in Lake County. But, never hurt to ask for a little more help.

Anyway, here's our specs...

* Ranch or Colonial with [good] basement
* Central Air
* Master Bedroom at least 12x12
* At least 3 BR & 1.5 Bathrooms
*Respectable backyard (at least big enough for our small dog).

Anyway, I know you guys will do a good job. If you don't live up here and can't actively help us look, please keep us in your prayers. We've seen so many, and we're getting discouraged. When we do find one we like, we get the word it's "off the market." So, it's been a long journey, and it's not over yet. I didn't put our price range, but if you want to email me, I'll give it to you. JKFlatt@oh.rr.com.

Thank you all!

Love, love, love....

I love love love the Target Dollar bins! Woohoo! You know what I'm talking about. Those delightflully cheap, and usually full of junk dollar bins at the front of the store! Today I scored a bunch of cool things for my 2008-2009 school year. One of which is a handy study guide/ math review. I'm so excited... and for what? A DOLLAR! Woohoo! Hats off to the dollar bins!! I will post pictures of my finds later!


Go out and enjoy the dollar bins!! Not much you can get for a dollar these days so, go get 'em before they turn into the $1.50 bins or the $2 bins!

Great show...

I just thought I'd throw it out there, but has anyone anyone watched "Baby Borrowers?" Oh my goodness! I find it one of the better shows out there. Sure it's not completely realistic, because eventually they do give the kiddos back... but I find it great that they're showing teenagers and other teenagers who may be watching it.. what it's like to be a teen parent.

I just thought, that I would ask if anyone had ever seen it. They give them a baby, they have to take care of it (of course the real parents are watching....), they have to go to work, pay bills. I just find it great!

After working many years in childcare, I know some of the "Joys" of parenting... even the not so fun ones. And these kids have noooooooo clue. They want a baby... wow! They're not even close to being able to take care of a real baby.

Anyway, just thought it was very humorous... and enjoyable.

We're here....

So, we're here in Lynchburg, VA. We're enjoying our stay. My sister's apartment is lovely... in fact I am quite jealous. It's bigger than Jer and I's.

We went out to breakfast at Cracker Barrel. It was good. My sister's friends came and visited with us joining us for breakfast. They're two nice ladies.

Now I'm sitting here, watching my dad fix my sister's vacuum cleaner. Yesterday it was spewing glass.

All right, well pics are yet to come. I gotta rescue my camera from the van.

Have fun everyone!!

We're off and running

Bags packed...

Pillow ready....

Dvds selected....

Waiting.....

Yep! We're leaving for Virginia in a little more than 2 hours! I'm very excited. While we pass through Virginia each year, we're actually headed there to see my sister. It's very special to me, because some of you may know my sister and I's history... and she actually invited me personally. (She also invited Jer, but he can't come because he needs to work and run our Sunday School class.) So, off we go!

To Virginia or BUST!!!

Happy Anniversary!!

I just want to take a quick moment to wish a special 4th Anniversary to Tricia and Nathan! Wow has God brought them far! It's great to see them with their families away from the hospital. Gwyneth is soooo little still and it's amazing to see how God has been working! So... Happy Anniversary guys! May God bring you many many more anniversaries to come!!

Check out their blog Nate, Tricia & Gwyneth.

All right, I'm a bloggin' now!

Hi everyone,

Well, I'm going to try to take a stab at more frequent blogging. I just love reading other's blogs, so I guess it's only fair for others to be able to peer into my life, right?

Anyway, I have been loving not working this summer. I'm preparing myself for an adventurous school year ahead. I'm making small preparations each week so as not to bombard myself when August comes around.

So what have I been up to?


Well last week I worked at Clapp Children's Center. It has been a while since I've been there, but really, it's like riding a bicycle! I had a great time working with my co-workers! (This is an old picture... but the only one I could find on my computer. So this will have to do!)

Monday, I hung out with my best friend Katie and her little girl, Summer. We had a great time catching up. I even watched the baby for a little bit while Katie went to the store. Then we made Broccoli Soup and played cards!


Tuesday we went to the Aurora Premium Outlets! Boy did I make a killing! Again, Katie made the adventure out, so I got to see her and Summer again! It was GREAT! I love being an honorary Aunt. I'm going to see her next Wednesday too... I promise to take pictures!

Wednesday Mom and I went strawberry picking. Thus the picture to the left! The strawberries were delicious! The only part that was a bummer was the berries were VERY small. But, because the were so small they were perfect for my first ever strawberry pie! MMMMmmmm.... it is delicious too!

Today I tried my hand at Fruit Salsa with Cinnamon Tortilla Chips. MMMMmmmmm!

This weekend I'm going with my family to visit my oldest sister Katie. I'll try to take pictures while there too.

I'm getting the hang of this blogging business!

Have a good weekend!!