Rachel's Blog

1.01.2011

2010-12-31T21:46:00.000-08:00

Wow! What a year 2010 has been. I can say, without a doubt, that it was one of the most trying years of my life. Battling my heath issues, job losses, 4 different jobs with my precious nanny babies moving out of the state(thanks economy), moving into my own home, settling in with Peanut, getting t-boned, buying a new car......
2010 has also been one of the most gratifing years I have ever had. I learned how to budget, Peanut turned one, I learned how to set boundaries..and STICK to them, I renovated my house, I bought a new car at a FANTASTIC interest rate, I have found out who my true friends are, and arent for that matter, I learned to let go of my past, I learned what it is to truly forgive.

I am a stronger woman because of 2010 and will always remember the landmarks it has put in my life, the impact, it has made on my heart, and the choices I made that forever changed my future!

So- heres to a wonderful, life changing, heart altering, glory filled 2011!
I cant wait to see what lies ahead!

Blessings to you all-
Rachel

Christmas Party

2010-12-13T11:23:00.000-08:00

It is that time of year again! Time for Discovery's annual Christmas Party! I had a really great time seeing so many of my friends that have become like family to me! I look back on the past two years and can honestly say, I wouldnt be where I am at without the tools the training provided me. I had a blast! :)

Chritsmas Cards

2010-11-30T08:53:00.001-08:00

Lovely Leaves Story Christmas 5x7 folded card

Shop Shutterfly for elegant custom Christmas photo cards.

View the entire collection of cards.

Shutterly's the place to go, when the Winter season brings the snow

2010-11-28T11:44:00.000-08:00

There are many reasons why I LOVE shutterfly's Christmas Cards.I am one to print Christmas Cards every year; and I am known for creating cute, fun, and creative ones. Have you seen Shutterly's list of Holiday Cards this year?

I cannot believe how easy they make it for me to have the cutest cards possible. I always hear about them, or see them on a fridge when I come over for a cup of hot cocoa.

I was VERY excited to order a Desk Calander for my Grandmother this year. My Grandmother is getting very old, and just had a stroke. She often forgets birthdays, and I wanted to make sure she could remember. The Calander is such a great gift; not only so you can keep up with day-today activities; but they also have vibrant pictures printed on the sides.

Just when I thought Shutterfly had won my heart forever; they came out with one other thing..... Baby Annoucements. I just ordered some for my friend's daughter and she is just smitten with them!!

Use shutterfly this holiday season, and I know youll be impressed!

Christmas Pictures

2010-11-23T12:52:00.000-08:00

I am so blessed, to have had the time and money to have my pictures taken this year. Tim Waters did such a fabulous job, and I am thrilled. Here are some of my favorites!

I have a very busy thanksgiving and am spinning my head that Christmas is right around the corner! I cannot believe it! For those of you that want to see the Christmas card, Ill post when I mail it out....no peaking! :)

My Grandmother had a series of mini strokes, so Im going up to Houston on Thursday to see her and my cousin that is in from florida. Ill have to rush back home for Black Friday shopping, though! :D

Happy Turkey Day everyone...drive safe!

Halloween

2010-11-02T12:27:00.000-07:00

I had a fantastic Halloween...well, it mostly consisted of sleeping and watching movies due to my horrid allergies...

I FINALLY broke down and bought a netti pot...best $12 Ive ever spent. This is the first year in 4 years that I have not gotten a sinus infection when my allergies flair up! It is a little gross, but it comes with SO much relief that I do it several times a day! Definatly a keeper.

This year, I reused my Chicken outfit! I paid $60 for that darn thing; so I havea feeling I will be a chicken until Im 45 to get my money's worth out of it. I bought 3 constumes for Peanut. At first, I wanted to be barn animals, seeing that my house is currently in the country. I bought a cow, but it didnt fit right; so then I bought a pig....it was for sure cute!

Then, I walked through Petco....and there it was, what I had wanted but couldnt find.... a FARMER'S COSTUME! :D it was onlt $6.95 as opposed to the $17.99 I had spent on the other two; so I was okay with that! I thought we were pretty cute!

This was Peanut's first Halloween with me. I got him on November 1, 2009; just one week before my birthday! What a blessing it has been to have him.

I am enjoying my job more that words could tell! The girls are awesome and the parents couldnt be more understanding and easy to work with!

I will be going to school full time instead of part time next fall....I am VERY nervious!

On to bigger things.... enjoy the pictures

Acorn Craft

2010-10-20T09:43:00.000-07:00

I found this cute Acorn idea today and thought that Mrs. E and M would love to do it. They both love painting and gluing, so I think they'll love it!

What youll need:
1 sheet of black construction paper, 1 sheet of printer paper, black marker, pencil, sissors and the acorn patter (link listen in "labels" below)

Steps:
1) Have your child paint a complete peice of whit paper. It can be any color and any pattern! ie- fingers, sponges, paintbrush etc.
2) Print out Acorn Pattern (below) and glue onto the black paper.
3) Have you or your child (nanny kidlet) cut out pieces of the painted paper.
4) Let your child glue the pieces inside the acorn and around the edge for a border

Bows for Peanut!

2010-10-20T07:38:00.000-07:00

I have recently picked up the art of "bow making". I went to a class and made a ton of them for my nanny kidlets. I was thinking last night how cute it would be if I made them for Peanut....I just made them smaller; and boy are they CUTE!!! :D

Pay is Backwards

2010-10-20T07:28:00.000-07:00

So, this morning I went to starbucks; as I do every Wednesday (my little treat since WEdnesdays are my favorite day of the week) I ordered what I always do.... oatmeal with Soy Milk instead of water, and a (in the fall/winter) Carmel Machiato with an extra pump of Vanilla, upside down.
I pull to the window and roll down my window. I had cash, a rare occasion, and had my hand out the window for a good 45sec. I am being honest when I say, I was growing to be annoied, because the lady was looking at me; but wasnt taking the money. I saw the truck ahead of me take a left and then she said, "The gentleman in front of you paid for your order. Its called, paying it backwards". I had no idea that was even a "thing". There was not anyone behind me, but I will for sure be "paying it backwards" next Wednesday! Tonight is bookclub with my amazing "Butterflies"...WE are currently reading "SAying YES to God"! Its a great book!

Happy Hump Day Everyone

A "Mummy Box"

2010-10-20T07:11:00.000-07:00

I decided yesterday that we would be making a "mummy" this morning. Mrs. E was just excited to have some apple juice, but we had to empty the box for the craft.

What you'll need:

Juice box, 2 tbl rice, tape, black and white construction paper, craft glue, 2 wiggle eyes, scissors

1.) cut the top of the box and place the rice in the top. Then seal with tape.

2.) Tear whit contruction paper into strips and glue them around the box. Then tear a small piece of black contruction paper and put it on the front/

3.) Use the gle and glue the eye(s) to the front!

Mrs. E LOVED it! She is so proud of all of her arts and crafts, as she should be. I love the fact that she enjoys reading, and crafts as much as I do. So many parents now just want me to put thier children in front of a TV....I much rather have hands on crafts than that! :D

Mrs. E really ratherd play play dogh....she did that yesterday as well. I will have to look for something we can do with clay.

Scarecrow and a fall tree

2010-10-19T10:45:00.000-07:00

Today Mrs. E wanted to do a scarecrown in lou of fall/halloween. Why not? I looked up online for a template and we went to town! Took a good hour for her to complete to coloring phase and then we went on to assemble it! She LOVED it and is so proud.

Mrs. M wasnt really in the mood but had a hand traced from yesterday! Her mother had cut out some leaves and I just used some scraps and made a tree!

"flowers"

2010-10-19T10:28:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, My nanny kidlets wanted to trace thier hands! I was thinking of what to do with them, since it was so sfun for them to have thier hand traced!. Mrs. E said that she would like to make flowers with them!

Things needed:

Paper towel roll(empty)

Paint

Paper towels

constuction paper

Sissors

I simply wrapped the papper towel roll (after Mrs. E and M already painted it) and then stuffed some paper towels down in the roll. I then cut out the hands and glued them to straws. I added some tool to stabalize it a a little..... it came out sooo cute! :D

Tutu Creations

2010-10-18T08:35:00.000-07:00

I started selling tutus about a month ago! it has really taken off! I cannot wait to start using my new sewing machine and make fuller skirts! :D I also went to a bow making class....as if my life wasnt crazy enough! :D Here are some pics! Enjoy

Spoiled Doves

2010-10-09T14:05:00.000-07:00

I have recently joined a western entertainment "club"! :D It is a group compiled of teachers, nannies, cooks, stay at home moms, wives, single ladies, old and young! It is so fun to dress up and even more fun to be the life of the party!! :D I was recently in a magazine (see below tag)...and it was so much fun! Look 'em up or see addtional photots at the tag below! http://www.spoileddovesoftexas.com/

Peanut Turns 1

2010-09-29T09:27:00.000-07:00

I cannot believe that it has almost been a year since I got Peanut!!! He turned one on the first of this month! I got him on November 1st. It has been a heck of a year, but I love this little puppy! I am considering getting a female, but not at least for a year! :D

Here are some pictures! He got a doggie cake from the dog bakery, and I got a human cake as well! Lots of people were there! His "grandparents" in tow! :D He is certinally loved!

SkyDiving!!

2010-09-29T09:18:00.000-07:00

So, this year I wanted to do something special for Ashley's birthday. She completed D3 (http://www.discovery-austin.org/) about 2 years earlier and wanted to sky dive. I thought that would be a great birthday gift....that, and I have always wanted to do it....just needed an excuse! :D

I took Emily along for the ride, though she did not get to go. It was an amazing trip, and I made memories to last a lifetime. Ashley means so much to be and the bond that we share is very special! Emily is growing to fast and I see so much love in her eyes... I cannot wait to see how she changes the world.

Austin's 24th Birthday

2010-07-19T18:30:00.000-07:00

Well, Austin hit the big 24 today! He is the 3rd boy in line of us 6 kiddos, and it wasnt very eventful! Sakre couldnt come over with her kids, Josh is in Colorado, Walter and his wife were working, and Emily is in route on a plane from Washington. So, it was just Mom, Austin and I.
Fried chicken, and home made peach dumplings and ice cream....wonderful.
Happy Birthday Austin

Yellow Jackets

2010-07-19T18:26:00.000-07:00

I am allergic to bees. This, coupled with the fact that I HATE flying bugs, usually makes me very proactive in looking for nests.
Well, the last two weeks, my work week was a little crazy! Ashley let Peanut out one day and noticed four, yes FOUR nests....wonderful!
She came out and sprayed them for me! My, what a special friend! :D

finishing up the bathroom

2010-07-19T18:22:00.000-07:00

I have made a lot of progress to my house, and the bathroom is about done. There was a pocket door to the bathroom when I moved in, and i took that out. I have to get some hinges and hang it, and then, with some touch up on paint and mounting the TV on the wall, the bathroom will be done!!THANK GOODNESS

Mother's Day

2010-07-18T19:43:00.000-07:00

I know it is a little late, but i have yet to buy a new laptop or fix the one I have, so it is always a hit or miss when I will actually be on a computer and not on my phone....
My mom, sister and I all went to Houston to take my Grandmother out to lunch! I love my Gma sooo much, and am thankful that she is in relatively good health!
We spent the weekend in Houston, and went blackberry picking when we got back! We invited Ashley to come, and we all had a blast!
I love my family!! :D

Peanut

2010-07-18T19:28:00.000-07:00

I have enjoyed every minute of the, almost, last year with Peanut! The family that I am currently working with is on vacation this week!! You know what that means....I have time to take Peanut up to Dell Children's!!!! The kids LOVE Peanut and it is SUCH a blessing, and an honor to be able to put a smile on their faces!! :D He is full grown at 5 pounds and his birthday is coming up in September!! I cannot belive how the last year has flown!! :)

House Renovations

2010-05-21T11:33:00.000-07:00

Buying a house is flipping ridiculous!! Let a lone renovating it!
I am having a blast! it has taken 3 months so far, and at least I can sleep in it now!
It is out in the country, and there is not much out here! haha! just the hilly plains!
I love it, and I blessed to be opening this new chapter in my life

New job, new path with school

2010-05-21T11:24:00.000-07:00

I have decided that I am going to get my Masters in Occupational Therapy! I have started working with children that have disabilities so that I can begin to get a good understanding of what my career will look like! I must say, that I am thrilled! God has blessed me above and beyond!!
I should be done with my Masters in 2 years!! YEAH!! :D
In the mean time, I get to play with children like Wynter, shown above!! This was taken on my iPhone! Oh- how I would die without it!! :D

Snow in Febuary

2010-05-21T11:19:00.000-07:00

Okay, I know that is late, but my Aunt asked for snow day pictures!! it was a very odd thing, but we got 5in of snow!!! My "baby's" first snow! he loved it! He enjoyed eating it for sure!

10 Moths Old

2010-05-21T11:15:00.001-07:00

Peanut will be 10 months old on the 1st of next month!!! OH MY GOODNESS!!!! I cannot believe how time flies!
He is officially an ADA certified service dog!! :) He is so smart and because he is certified....I can take him anywhere I want!! :D I just love his precious little face!
He is my pride and joy!

A New Kia

2010-05-02T19:49:00.000-07:00

So, today I learned that in the CITY of Philadelphia there is a deal at a Kia store that you can buy on car and get the other free! It is not a deal that goes on often, OBVIOUSLY, so I thought Id look into cost to get one.....
I was at my mom's visiting today and my friend Ashley walks in- It was such cool news that I had to share it!
ME: "Hey Ash, did you know that in the state of Philadelphia, you can get two Kia's for the price of one?"
ASHLEY:"Umm, Rachel- are you aware that Philadelphia is not a state"
Me: "Well, I guess I didnt think about it! hahaha! whoops! guess thats why History was the only class that I ever got a "B" in"
ASHLEY: "Yeah, Im pretty sure that city is in Chicago"
ME: "Um, isnt that a city as well??"
ASHLEY: (After we laughed for a good 2 min) "HAHA, yeah, maybe it is in Illinois....let me check"

After the sounds of a clicking key board and a couple of minutes....we found out that indeed Philadelphia is located in the state of Pennslyvania.

Im really glad we got that out of the way before I called my travel agent to book a flight! HAHAH! Im sure he would have laughed really hard!
Good times, even better momories- even if it is a little shell shocking that I didnt know where it was located! Good times......

A Four Month Cath up

2010-04-29T20:14:00.000-07:00

WOW~~~

Has it really been that long since I last posted something!? My life has been on a crazy spriral in so many different directions, that the last thing on my mind was to BLOG! That, coupled with the fact that my computer is STILL broken, and I cannot find it "okay" in my mind to go drop $700 on a new one! I finally have a phone and for the most part, can access at least facebook! Granted...that has even been an issue due to the fact that my company blocks it, for obvious reasons- I would never be working, and I dont get good reception in the boonies!
I have moved! That is SO amazing! I am really excited! There were a bit of renovations that needed to be done to my new little home; but I will be moving in this weekend!!! :) It will be so nice not to hear the pitter patter of little feet when I wake up on my weekends! (Granted- Id give anything to hear my litte "Bean's" feet)! :D Just me and my little Peanut in the country- BLISS
I have changed jobs. I am no longer a nanny. I work with children that have Down Syndrome! WHAT A BLESSING!! My day is spent doing Occupational Therapy with them. I love it! It is neat to meet all of the different families and see how everything works! I am really enjoying it! :)
Nothing really else it "new"!
Ill be posting pics of some things soon! I know some of you are dying to see!

P.S. Im aware that this is not a very long "4 month catch up" but its all I have in me at the moment

Uncle, Aunt, and Cousins come to Texas!!

2010-01-06T19:24:00.000-08:00

Mom and her brother! :)
Uncle Rock, Myself, and my cousin Katie!!!
Aunt Cindy and I!! :) Havent seen her in like 6 YEARS!! I LOVE my family!!! :)
Peanut was PASSED OUT after all of the festivities!! :D LOVE the tongue!!!

I love to see my family! we are close knit and love to spend time together!! I am so blessed that we got to spend the New Year together as a family! they live in Washington and really dont get to see them very often. What a blessing!! :D

Godson Update...

2010-01-06T19:17:00.000-08:00

A lot of you were asking for pictures of Kael! He is doing REALLY well!! I cannot believe how well he is doing ! He is almost 2 months old. The doctors say that he might have breathing problems until the age of 5, but so far...NOTHING! It is such a miracle! 10 weeks early, only 2 weeks in NICU, home a 3 weeks, and THRIVING!!! GOD IS GOOD

Sade, above right; is SUCH a good big brother! I love it when I hear him say, "Cha Cha, I sure woooobb (love) you!" MELT MY HEART!!!! HE will be 3 in March!! where does the time go

Kael, above middle; one word...MIRACLE

Alden, above right; Such a cutie and a very outspoken ham! :) He will be teo in May!

being a godmother is a wonderful gift, and I wouldnt change a thing! :)

Family Pictures

2010-01-06T19:09:00.001-08:00

Ella and the kiddo's daddy is still over in Iraq, but I wanted to get some pics of the family before I said all of my "good byes"! I have been with them for 3 years, there will for sure be some tears shed! this is defiantly NOT going to be easy! here are two of my favorite ones....

4 Months old....

2010-01-06T19:07:00.001-08:00

My "son" is 4 months old!! where in the world did the time go!?? Please tell me he is the cutest thing on earth! :)

Feeding Peanut...aka "My son"

2010-01-06T19:03:00.000-08:00

Oh- how this precious girl loves my puppy! Its sad, because, not for too much longer can I even call him a "puppy"!
She loves feeding him, and her little doggy! :)
Sometimes, she likes to let him eat out of the big jug that holds all the food!! hahah!
She is soo cute! :)

Driving the jeep

2009-12-25T06:56:00.001-08:00

She is so in love

Barbie jeep

2009-12-25T06:49:00.001-08:00

She loves it

Ice skating

2009-12-10T10:42:00.001-08:00

Live this kid

Kael Liam Riquelmy

2009-12-07T18:41:00.001-08:00

My third, and final Riquelmy Godson is here! he is sooo precious! :)
He was born on thanksgiving a rushed to the Temple NICU! His lungs were WAY underdeveloped, and he could not eat!
He was supposed to be in there for 3-5 week; and with the power of prayer, was released yesterday!! He is a doll!!!

Halloween

2009-12-02T19:49:00.000-08:00

Listen....I KNOW that I am running a bit behind! I have had a LOT going on and really havent had time to fill everyone in! The Halloween costumes were a HIT!! And how couldnt they be!! :)
It was a great night! Except that some people thought we were ducks?????? really???
And had one guy stop and ask "is there like a pattern here or something"
Im like really, other then the fact that we are all chickens, have yellow, red and orange and have the CHICKEN DANCE playing in the background???nope- not a thing! :)

Pumkin Patch

2009-12-02T19:45:00.000-08:00

Nissa, Tarren, Ella and I went to the pumkin Patch in Marble Falls in late October! we had a blast! I always love going to Sweet Berry Farm!! :D
Hay ride, horse rides, stuff your own scare crow...so on and so forth! :D

The Next Home Alone??

2009-12-02T19:43:00.000-08:00

This was SO FUNNY!!! I asked her what she thought of Santa....and THIS is what I got, PRICELESS! :D

Merry Christmas Harrison!

2009-12-02T19:34:00.000-08:00

It was so good to see Harrison for some early Christmas! I got him and his expected brother matching shirts!! Jo fell in love! Granted, they were orange, so I was really glad that she liked them!! It is always good to see them! Cant wait to meet her new addition!! Isnt he a DOLL!!!

IT LOOKS LIKE CHRISTMAS!!!!

2009-12-02T19:31:00.000-08:00

Tell me this isnt the FUNNIEST thing you have ever seen!!! :)

Ella visits the the Doctor

2009-12-02T19:19:00.000-08:00

Ella went to get her H1N1 shot!! she was not thrilled about the shot!! it was SOOOOOOOOO funny though!
We got into the elevator to go downstairs and there was an old couple in it as well. They asked Ella what she went to the doctor for, and Ella told them! "I got 2 shots today!"
They asked her if it hurt or if she cried and Ella said "No, But Saige did" HAHAHA!! :) She is so funny! :)

MY SON!!!!!

2009-12-02T19:08:00.001-08:00

This is my son!! the cutest 3lb teacup shit zui that you will EVER MEET!!! He is the love of my life! And I say this with no reserve!! He is so spoiled! He only eats organic, he has more bling, clothes, jackets,and all around "things" then i do! :)
He is a certified therapy dog so I can take him anywhere as long as I have my card with me! :)
We have many-a-matching outfits and he is just a joy!!
You will see below.......HE IS SOOOO FREAKING CUTE

Emily turns 13

2009-12-02T18:55:00.000-08:00

I swallowed a pin in 8th grade the day of homecoming!! My baby sister (left) came to visit me(right)
School picture of Emmy 2009

OMG!!! we have an official TEENAGER on our hands!!!!! Emily has been such an unimaginable blessing in my life! Not a day goes by that I am not blessed and think about how much she means to me!
I got her a Itouch for her birthday and she was IN LOVE! :)
She made the basketball team!!!!!!!!
I didnt think that when she moved to a Public school she would make any team! She has made Volleyball AND Basketball!!! I am SOOOO proud of her!!
Cant believe how fast time flies!!! it is SOO crazy!!

ABC's

2009-12-02T16:00:00.001-08:00

Cutest thing EVER!!! ;)

Birthday number two!!

2009-11-08T19:35:00.001-08:00

Went to he cotton club in Taylor!!!! How I love to country dance!!!!!!!!! I was clearly annoied by the operator of my phone..... Aka, "Cathy"! But it was an awesome night none the less!! ;)

Don't play soccer with bowling ball

2009-11-07T18:35:00.001-08:00

Ella bowled her ball, and it was so light that I thought I'd help it along! Of course, her screaming at the end was so cute I thought I'd get it on video!!! Well, as you will see the lights scramble on the screen; it's not, I repeat, NOT a good idea to run down a bowling aly lane to kick the ball faster!!!

My new puppy

2009-11-05T18:28:00.001-08:00

My sweet son is precious!!!! Ivnamed him Peanut! He was two months this last Sunday!!

Where in the world did the time go!!!

2009-10-12T18:11:00.001-07:00

It just seems like yesterday my little sister was born! It was growing up that the "matching" was mandatory!! People always wonder where I get it from...........

NEED I SAY MORE?????????

Anyway, Thinking back the other day; I cannot belive that my baby sister will be 13!! A TEENAGER!!! WHAT! Im not sure if I should laugh, cry, or have a breakdown! It seems like just yesterday we brought her home from the hospital! :/
October, treat her well!!!

Winter clothes for Ella

2009-10-12T18:08:00.000-07:00

So, I took Ella shopping this last Friday!!! $500 later, we have her winter clothes and shoes! Complete with matching bows, accessories, tights, socks, and 2 jackets! :) I get paid to spend my employer's money!! I love my job!! hahah!
Needless to say, we had a blast! here are two of the most adorable outfits EVER!!!

Halloween Costumes

2009-10-12T17:41:00.000-07:00

So, everyone that knows me, knows I must match my 3 year old charge, Ella, whenever we are in public! I know that I often take it to the "extreme"; but i love my job! I also think that if you are going to be a nanny, your kids reflect how much to love your job! If they look like they just rolled out of bed- you are probably not teaching them how to get dressed, pick out clothes, pick up, and make their bed before you go on your outing! Granted, I am OCD- so these things were expected at 8 months old! haha! (not really)
Anyway, this year, I really wanted to go door to do with Ella and the family in matching costumes. I wasn't sure how we were going to find 3 adult costumes and a child one to match in less then 3 weeks away from the date when we need them!
Low and behold...WE FOUND THEM!!! :)
Check it out!! :)

Harrison

2009-10-11T12:49:00.001-07:00

I am so glad jo and Harrison are back in TX!! Jo is beautiful, and hp has grown! He is such a joy! He was a widdke grumpy because it was nigh nights time! Sooo cute none the less

How many times I struggle....

2009-10-05T22:04:00.000-07:00

How many times do I struggle to believe You are truly here with me? Even though You have proved Your presence over and over again, I still allow my heart to doubt. So here I am again, requesting that You will become more real to me than ever before. Please help me, my Prince, that I may never lose my faith in You again. Thank You for Your never-ending patience with Your Princess.

Love,

Your Princess

Who believes you now

Your kingdom is an everlasting kingdom, and Your dominion endures through all generations. The Lord is faithful to all His promises and loving toward all He has made. Psalm 145:13

One day at a time....

2009-09-30T11:32:00.000-07:00

These last few weeks have been one thing after the other! Not a bad thing, or not that I haven't enjoyed it; just literally....one thing after the other! With Saige and Tarren in school, that means, lunches, dropping off, picking up, running to and from!! I am also home schooling Ella and that is a crazy mess in and of itself! :)
With Discovery, it is really never ending! There is always something to help with!! it is such a great feeling to be with people you love doing these to help other people that come our way! It is truly a blessing to be involved in such an amazing program and I love being with the people every month!
There is a "dance competition" every month, and I was one of the judges! It was awesome! I have such a blast!! My "Mom" and her family were there too! They are such a blessing in my life, it is hard to picture my healing and furture without them in it! Love me some Radliffs!! :)
There is a Discovery Cruise that is going on in a couple weekends, and Rudy's is coming up this Monday, then a training in Dallas, then back again for Austin! See.....always something going on!
http://www.discovery-training.com/
You should check it out! It is one amazing program to be involved in; I am honored, honored to know the people I do from there!! :)
School for me is CrAzY!!!!!! Between work, Discovery, getting Harrison's nursery done before jo and he get home, school, and all the other things in my life.....Im about to go nutzo!!
I am looking forward to Thanksgiving, Emily will be turning 13 soon, I will be 21 in a matter of a month or so, and Christmas!!! :)
I dont have a ton going on.....I dont have anything really exciting!! Other then I have almost lost 20 pounds....took me almost a year, but Im doing it!! :)
Out for now!

lust??

2009-09-22T11:54:00.000-07:00

HA! i bet that sent something through your mind! :)
Not lust, purely want! Not that I am coveting the many people in the world that can afford to spend over a grand on a camera!!! well, maybe jealous at best! :)
LOOK AT THIS!!! :)
http://www.usa.canon.com/consumer/controller?act=ModelInfoAct&fcategoryid=139&modelid=11933
ISNT IT BEAUTIFUL!!!!!
I have decided today that I am going to pursue some kind of photography! It may not really take off till I get married or have kiddos and want to stay home- but I really enjoy it and really want to pursue it further!!
I love taking pictures almost as much, if not more then I enjoy writing!! I love it!
I am hoping that I get to buy it at some point in the future!!
Heres to hoping!!!!

Being Crafty

2009-09-18T17:17:00.000-07:00

I was so excited when I finally had time to sit down and get this done! I have been waiting to do this project for so long!
I have two DVD racks that are really nice and I got these 8X10 frames to go over top of them! :)
I took blue cardstock, to match the paint on the wall and cut it to size. Then i took ribbon and sticker glued it to make the lines! I have horizontal lines a half a foot from my ceiling; so this ties it all together! I have 3 for each DVD stand! I have not decided on all the pictures yet, there will be one in each of the frames....but im excited!! :)
Yeah for being crafty! :)

Struggling to forgive.....

2009-09-17T18:02:00.000-07:00

All of us have things that happen to us in life, which create pain, anger and grief. In most cases, they come unexpectedly and are rarely deserved. How do we handle it? What instruction does

God’s Word give to help us cope with such trauma?
It’s important to understand that if we don’t plow through what has happened to us, the seeds of bitterness will eventually sprout and begin to choke out the joy that God intends for us to have in life. In fact, Hebrews 12:15 says that a bitter root will always grow up and cause trouble.

C.S. Lewis put it this way: “We find that the work of forgiveness has to be done over and over again. We, forgive, we mortify our resentment; a week later some chain of thought carries us back to the original offense and we discover the old resentment blazing away if nothing had been done about it at all. We need to forgive our brother seventy times seven not only for 490 offenses but for one offense.”

Forgiveness is not only a struggle, but it’s a very important struggle. If we truly want to live in communion with God, then we have to learn to forgive as He forgave. The real lesson to be learned is that the struggle to forgive is the struggle to be like Jesus.

Forgiveness is not a feeling; it's not forgetting; it's not pretending you weren't hurt; it's not trusting the person again; it's not even reconciliation. Forgiveness is a DECISION you make to obey God. No one, not even God can make you forgive someone. You must decide to give up your right to hurt the person back. I forgive those who hurt me because God has forgiven me for the hurts I have caused him. Forgiveness protects the forgiver from himself. Forgiveness cancels a debt like Christ cancelled our debt. God says, "I do the punishing; all I want you to do is the forgiving." Forgiveness is a process, it takes time, but it is an act of grace that reflects God's treatment to us. When I forgive, I release God to work directly on the other person.

When I refuse to forgive, I create a barrier between God and me and I can't pray. When I don't forgive I'm saying that what that person did to me is more important than going on with God.

I know I have truly forgiven when the love of God can flow through me to the person who wronged me. When my decisions are not controlled by the other person's behavior, I know I have forgiven. When I am free from the pain, anger and hatred towards that person and experiencing God's peace, I know I have truly forgiven.

America's next top model

2009-09-17T12:00:00.001-07:00

Hahaha! She watched part of this today! I had to post it! Soo cute!!!

Romance Me!!

2009-09-17T08:38:00.000-07:00

My Prince,

I am ready to let you make me a beautiful reflection of who You are. Let me fix my eyes upon You that I may see myself as You see me. I am ready to walk through the rest of my life as Your Princess Bride. I no longer want anyone but You, my Lord and Prince, to define my true beauty. So please, open my heart that I may receive Your words of truth about who I really am!

Love,

Your Bride

Who loves how beautiful You make me feel

I praise You because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; Your works are wonderful, I know that full well. Psalm 139:14

Trust......

2009-09-13T20:36:00.000-07:00

A little girl and her father were crossing a bridge.
The father was kind of scared so he asked his little daughter:
"Sweetheart, please hold my hand so that you don't fall into the river." The little girl said:
"No, Dad. You hold my hand."
"What's the difference?" Asked the puzzled father.

"There's a big difference," replied the little girl.
"If I hold your hand and something happens to me, chances are that I may let your hand go. But if you hold my hand, I know for sure that no matter what happens, you will never let my hand go."

In any relationship, the essence of trust is not in its bind, but in its bond. So hold the hand of the person whom you love rather than expecting them to hold yours...

Friendship....

2009-09-11T18:35:00.000-07:00

Friendship isn't always easily described. The Eskimos, they say, have a hundred different words for snow. Unfortunately, the English language isn't quite as innovative, though it has vast opportunities to differentiate meaning. Certainly, Love is one of those opportunities. And so, too, is Friendship.

Instead of different words, however, we're stuck with simple adjectives. Close friend. Best friend. Childhood friend. Intimate friend. Trusted friend. Beloved friend. But whether you use adjectives or different words, few could deny the nearly infinite meaning in such a simple word.

Friends are special people. We can't pick our family, and we're sorely limited in the number of them at any rate. Society and mores (and often our own conscience) dictate we select a single mate. But our friends can be as diverse and infinite as the adjectives we choose. Our friends, in a very real sense, reflect the choices we make in life.

What Friendship Means to Me:

If I was one thing, I'd be a candle
Lighting the way so you can handle
Your life easier without woes
Not having to fight with your foes.
I'd help keep you from stumbling over
Things blocking your path to an open door.
If I light your path, life is easier,
Even strong winds, my light will not deter.
No matter what, I'm here for you
To cheer you up when you are blue.
Do not fret when times get tough,
If things look down or kind of rough.
Just remember, I'm always here,
In your heart, close and near.
I will help you out in every way,
Happiness and love in your heart will stay.
Don't blow me out, that's one request
Unless it's me you do detest.
I do not try to hurt anyone
That isn't good or any fun.
But one day you may leave me behind
You may no longer need my light to shine.
If that day comes, go on your way
And I will hope to see you again one day.
If one day, I don't appear,
Do not worry, do not fear
I may be gone, but in your heart
The light I gave you did not depart.
It will be there forever and a day
To always bring happiness and light your way.
Farewell for now, I'm needed elsewhere
If your path grows dark, in your heart, I'm there.
So I'm really not gone, just not seen,
I would not leave, I'm not that mean.
Only one simple request that I must say,
Please, never forget those who lit your way.

I cannot even begin to express the love and peace in my heart when I am with my friends! I am abundantly blessed and honored to be where I am at!!! GOD BLESS YOU!

Weekend Trip to Houston

2009-09-11T17:42:00.000-07:00

Jess, Kristen, and I am Reagan's Birthday party!

Kristen and I!! Goodness, this chick is such a blessing!!!

Mom and I (and nick) outside Olive Garden

Brett and I at Dominic's Birthday Party

I got to go to Houston this past weekend and really enjoyed my stay! I stayed with my friend Kristen, and am SO glad she offered for me to stay with her!
I went to two birthday parties, watched movies, spent quality time with friends, got to see some amazing friends, and my mommy! :D They all had the flu- so I didnt get too close; but i didnt drive 3 hours to Houston to NOT see them!! ya know? Im glad I did....and so far- I am not sick; so that is a plus! :D
I had such a great time though!! I was truly blessed, and am honored to have such amazing friends in my life!!!
On that note, on the way home I was on the phone with Kristen on my way home- 45 min from my house and we are talking. All seemed fine, except she was a little tired, and really just wanted to be home. Mid-sentence, I hear tires squeal, glass shatter, and the phone went dead!
Needless to say- I raced back to make sure all was well!!!! She was fine, and finally got answers on Monday!
I dont know what I would do without my friends!!!!

Big Girl Bows

2009-09-11T17:36:00.000-07:00

I know that most people dont really care about "graduating to big girl bows"; but this was a major mile stone this week for ella! I have decided that she is too big to have the little clip bows and needed some major big girl bows! She quite enjoyed going shopping and loves the bows evenmore!
She is SO cute!! :D

Ella playing in the rain

2009-09-11T10:07:00.001-07:00

I do not like rain- that is a nice way to put it! But the little 3 year old princess wanted to play in it!

Reagan and Peyton

2009-09-07T16:27:00.000-07:00

I got to have a mini-shoot with some cutie kiddos!!! :D
I really liked a lot of them, and hope to one day do this for a living! I really enjoy it!!

Ella swimming

2009-09-04T15:35:00.001-07:00

This kid is a fish!!!!

Ella stretching

2009-09-03T09:56:00.001-07:00

Now- I know "jump" would not ne her stretch but she's got it down pretty good! She has watched clips from Discovery and knows we all run around in circles! She is too cute!!! :)

Grace.....

2009-09-02T06:21:00.000-07:00

Grace is what God gives us when we don't deserve it and mercy is when God doesn't give us what we do deserve Like any other gift, the gift of grace can be yours only if you'll reach out and take it. Maybe being able to reach out and take it is a gift too. Or, at leat I like to think so! :)

I have been reading through the Bible about so many different people and about how God just forgives them, and looks past them. He chose to hang out with murders, thieves, and prostitutes!
He looks past our faults and sees who He made! Gosh, GRACE and MERCY is such a gift and such an amazing feeling!!!!
This is how I was feeling today! Made me smile! I often do after I write! :D

Matthew was a tax collector
Hated by most,
Yet he was chose as a disciple
By the Lord of Host.
 
Zacchaeus cheated
Many in his day,
But Jesus dined with him
When He passed his way.
 
Women were on a level
Far below man,
Yet inside a woman
His life on earth began.
 
And Samaritans
Were despised by the Jews,
But to a woman Samaritan
Jesus gave the Good News.
 
Cheaters, adulteresses
Sinful and unclean,
These were the people
With whom Jesus was seen.
 
Saul persecuted Christians
Until that day,
Jesus blocked his path
Along the way.
 
He touched his heart
And Paul came to be,
A wonderful example
For you and for me.
 
David was a murderer
Yet look how he was blessed,
God loved him far more
Than most of the rest.
 
Moses also
Murdered too,
Check out Mary Magdalene
Me and you.
 
Look at the examples
Shown above,
No earthly sin 
Can hinder His love.
 
For He takes earthly sin
And throws it aside,
He looks deep in the heart
To see what's inside.
 
He looks in that place
Where no man can go,
Where the depth of his love
Begins to flow.
 
So when we see someone
Who is a sinner by far,
Remember this list
And where they now are.
 
Remember the sins 
Listed Above,
Remember He Alone
Measures their love. 
 
And before we hate
And judge the rest,
Look at those God chose
As some of the best.

Hold my Hand!!

2009-09-01T17:36:00.001-07:00

My soul was downcast and weary,
That dark and gloomy day.
I truly felt, with deep despair,
The world was fading away.

Down by the turbulent waters,
Helplessly I stood.
The black ocean in its fury
Seemed angrily to brood.

Yet the beauty of it all
Stretched across the endless sky.
In hues of faded pinks and golds,
That sunset bathed my empty life.

The clouds were edged with silver,
Shining alabaster, pure.
The vast heavens became like open arms,
Welcoming and secure.

Where dismal thoughts and hopelessness
Had once brought many tears,
Came a brilliant ray of sunlight,
Overshadowing my fears.

As the gentle breeze caressed my cheeks,
Blowing softly through my hair,
I realized that my very life
Was in my Savior's care.

No longer would I worry,
When I have no strength to stand,
For every time I fall I know
He's there to hold my hand.

What happens?

2009-09-01T13:49:00.001-07:00

Love these conversations!

Ella talking to her dad in Iraq

2009-09-01T11:49:00.001-07:00

The kid's dad I nanny for is in Iraq, this is them talking to him

Red lights and school....

2009-09-01T08:51:00.000-07:00

School....
So today, like any other day....I got up, made breakfast, got the kids up, ready and fed, took Saige to school, then came back to pick up and do some school with Ella before taking Tarren to school.
Almost every day when I take the kids to school, I say, "Love you, have a good day...oh, and make good choices."
Well today, i forgot to say "make good choices" after the "love you have a good day" speech. so ella says, "ms. Rachel, Ms. Rachel; pwease woll my winow down." I promptly rolled it down and hear he boldly say, "and dont forget Tarren, make good choices!"
HHAHAHA!! How can you NOT think that is cute! I am glad that I am teaching her good things though! It warms my heart!

Red Lights

Ella has been on this "why" question for what seems like years! I am giving her the best answers I know how; but now understand where the saying, "Because I said so" came from!!! geshhhh.
She really likes me to drive fast. She is like her mom and does NOT like sitting in lines because the light is red. She thinks that we should just GO!!!!
I have explained to her the different colors and what each of them means! Today, I ran a yellow light! well, it turned yellow when going under it! It was a large interction, so she saw it when it turned from green to yellow....
She says, "Ms. Rachel, you are supposed to slow down when it goes yellow, and red means stop!"
Well, I got chewed out by a 3 year old! It was too cute! :)

Forgiveness..........

2009-08-31T10:50:00.000-07:00

There has been a lot going on in the life of "Rachel"! with my doctors telling me this and that, and FINALLY getting answers, starting school, getting the kiddos in school, home schooling Ella, cooking, cleaning, getting here and there, picking up, dropping off, and Discovery....oh, and sometimes sleep; there has been little time to do things that I actually enjoy!
Dont get me wrong! I LOVE MY JOB! wouldn't do anything else, I just mean my hobbies and things that used to bring me lots of joy and big smiles! :D
I started writing more, as you can see, and I really have "reflecting"! Its something I think that we all take for granted sometimes! We get so caught up in the daily things, that I think sometimes we miss looking back and learning from our mistakes, or just life in general. I know that I do it when I dont really want to take the time, or am afraid of what I may learn in the process!
I have really been wanting to write a book....and am looking at a way that I can get that done! I really want to live my mission (My mission is to inspire hope and self worth into the lives of young women and children who suffer from sexual abuse by showing them there is more to life then living as the victim through sharing my story and experience); and think that would be a great way to inspire people! My story in so entangled, that is has been really hard for me to untangle it all, and start the whole process. I have considered going to someone and having it done, but i enjoy writing so much, that it would be rather stupid of me not to just to it myself! Im really praying and seeing where God is going to take me in this journey!
On the note of "forgivenes", I have decided that it is crazy, crazy hard. I know that, well, DUHH it is! I didnt expect it to be THIS hard! Learing that forgiveness is the key to action and freedom, has been even harder. I know all the "answers", and how many times in our lives do we really really know the answers, but choose to look the other way because it is that much easier! It is learning, for me anyway, that in life, despite people's best intentions, that we are unfair to, and deeply hurt eachother. It is a crazy thing sometimes for me to think that no matter what I do, He will forgive me. Not that that gives us an excuse to sin, but it is amazing that He has given us that gift; it is not one to take lightly. God invites us to forgive each other, and that my friends, is the hard part!!
It is almost like we attach our feelings to the moment when we were hurt, undeniably endowing it with some kind of immortality. Its like we let it assauly us every single time it comes into our mind. It is crazy, because sometimes it seems, to me anyway, that it travels with me, sleeps with me; almost like a plague I cannot get rid of. Our hate, however, does not even have the decency to die when those we hate, or have hurt us die. Hate and unforgiveness is like a nasty parasite or something just sucking OUR blood, NOT thiers.
I am just now learning that forgiving is NOT having to understand a situation, circumstance, or even people's actions. Understanding may come later.....and that is something that I am having to learn is "okay". Forgiving sometome may come later, in fragments, an insight here and a glimpse there, AFTER forgving.
I sometimes measure my forgiveness "level" to someone elese's. NOT okay, and will get you no where. I used to think that I had to forgive people for everything; but am just now learning that it is a choice, not just a choice; but my choice. Im learning that yes, you can forgive someone for anything(with God's help, grace, and mercy); but that we cannot tolerate EVERYTHING. We do NOT have to tolerate what people do just because we forgive them for doing it. Forgiving others heals us personally.To tollerate everything only hurts us all in the long run.
I have recently discovered that most people who tell me that they cannot forgive a person for something, they are more then hadicapped by a mistaken understanding of what forgiveness actaually is.

Okay, done ranting about that today! I hope you are blessed today! As always; Live, laugh, and love!

A poem for you mom's out there! :D

2009-08-27T12:07:00.000-07:00

I wrote this about a month ago, and my Aunt wanted to see it! I hope you like it! I have really been in the "poetry mood" the last couple of days! :D

Mom, you're a wonderful Mommy,
So gentle, yet so strong.

The many ways you show you care
Always make me feel I belong.

You're patient when I'm foolish;
You give guidance when I ask;

It seems you can do most anything;
You're the master of every task.

You're a dependable source of comfort;
You're a cushion when I fall.

You help in times of trouble;
You support me whenever I call.

I love you more than you know;
You have my total respect.

If I had my choice of mothers,
You'd be the one I'd select!

RIP Ramsey

2009-08-26T21:25:00.000-07:00

This is just a short poem! I have many friends that are having a rough time with a recent passing of a dear friend to them! I hope this comforts some of you! be blessed in knowing where RM is and that he is dancing in Heaven with his Creator! It is hard because I saw where he was in D!, and where he came to in D!!!. He was a changed man, he turned his life around! It is so sad! Please pray for his family as they go through this process!

*Thursday from 7-9pm at Becks Funeral Home on RR 620

*The Service is Friday at 10am at Northwest Hills Methodist on Far West.

Grief be mine, I ask you so,
If not for you, I wouldn't know,
How life once was and then be still,
How so precious, that death do steal.
Because that grief, won't go away,
Learn to let it have its way.
The link to love, a precious one,
Is met with grief and still not done.
The days do come, and nights do go,
Grief will stay as time is so.
And so a loved one passes on,
And grief comes in and carries on.
Does grief get better, I will ask,
It's hard to say, while at its task.
There is grief to help us cope,
There is God to give us hope.
Grief will surely go away,
On that glorious heaven's day.
But while its here, there's just one thing,
Pray our Lord, for peace he'll bring.

Ramsey.....

May the road rise up to meet you.
May the wind be always at your back.
May the sun shine warm upon your face;
the rains fall soft upon your fields and until we meet again,
may God hold you in the palm of His hand.

Romance Me!!

2009-08-26T20:38:00.000-07:00

wanted to share something with you, as I allowed God to take me on what I would call, one of the most significant times in my life.
As I went on this cruise, I really questioned a lot of things. I brought my book and notebook along; as I wanted to read it and hoped to be "romanced". And boy did I ever.
It was after a long day in St. Thomas I had come back to the ship! I was tired, and worn, but was very restless. I decided to pick up my book and read it! WOW!! As I was reading, the waves hit the ship, the wind blew through my hair, and the holy spirit was speaking to my heart. I prayed and asked him to take me back to when he created me! I wanted to see His hands at work, and to be honest, I wanted to see how much He really loved me. I asked Him to take me back to the times I was abused, and to show me that he was there. I always question "why". I didnt understand where He was, I didnt get why all of it happened, and felt so alone with many questions unanswered. I prayed that He would rescue me, and truly romance me. I asked for him to hold me, and embrace me in a Father's love. I got more then I bargained for!!! :D
I went to bed that night, and was kind of disappointed I didnt "feel" his warm embrace..........
As I slept, I had to most amazing dream, and was taken on quite a journey.
I found myself in bedroom, when I was 6. I saw a shadow come through the door. I never saw his face, but I knew who it was. He took me by the hand and said, "come with me"
A gust of wind came through, and we were all of the sudden in a garden. Not sure where, not sure how, and it didnt even matter. He held my hand tight as we walked through this tropical place. It was beautiful. It was magical. It was God!!!
He lead me to this pool or lake, and sat me on a rock. I heard Him say, " I want you to see how much I love you." I watched as he seemingly "made me", I saw the smile on His face when I was born.
I try not to think about this too much, because I tend to over analyze, and question if it makes sense. but, it does!
He then came to me, He took my hand, and he said, "Princess, Daughter, my friend my Bride, come take my hand"
He led me to a pasture, green as the eye could see. He sat me down on a blanket, and then He say next to me.
Almost instantly as we sat, the sky turned from blue to black and I saw my abuse play out in the sky, and abusers too.
He rolled me from my stomach, i couldnt breathe, talk, and couldnt stop crying. He scooped me in His arm, He held me close and tight. He rocked me. He loved on me. He talked to me. He kissed my cheek.
After the sky went back to blue he picked my chin up, and said, " I was there. Did you see me? I was holding your hand. I was weeping in your ear! Did you feel the warm sensation on your cheek? those were my tears. I never left you. I never said what happened was okay. I love you. I created you. I am sorry there is sin in the world. Dont turn from me. I am your Father. I love you. I love you. I love you. He kissed my cheek.
After that, I woke up. My heart was full, there were tears rolling down my cheek!!! what a beautiful surprise! what an amazing dream! ROMANCE ME AGAIN!!! :D
I wrote this poem the second I woke up! It may not make sense to you, but some of it will!
Be blessed my precious friends!!!!!!! He is in awe of YOU!!!

He Sees It All

I was sitting in bed today, thinking about all of my life’s tragedies,

Wondering if God cared for me, and thinking of what all He sees.

Thinking about my past, as I too often do,

Of my blessings, accomplishments, and all my sorrows too.

I couldn’t help but feel overwhelmed and a little bit betrayed,

Because I didn’t see God rescue me, when I called His name.

I couldn’t feel help but feel ashamed, that I couldn’t have done more,

But wished that in the future I had something better in store.

I thought about my story, and about the elite “club” I was in,

I felt trapped and drowned, by all of the overwhelming sin.

Through my years of abuse, the victim is all I was dubbed,

Leaving the question in my mind, “Was I ever loved”?

Questions, and questions starting piercing my every thought,

I thought my freedom was paid for, I thought it had been bought?

I began to question His love, and commitment to my life,

Didn’t He see this pain I was in, all the agony and strife?

Surely there was a reason, and unbeknownst to me,

There was a plan through my heartache that I just could not see.

As I allowed God to change me, and heal my broken heart,

I asked Him to take me back, right to the very start.

He took me on a journey; to a place I never thought I’d be,

I walked the streets of gold, which I never thought I’d see.

He walked me through a garden, and then a secluded lake,

I took a seat on a rock, as He said, “Watch, as I create”

I saw Him form my feet, my fingers and my toes,

I saw him sculpt the outline of my head, and put a dimple on my nose.

I watched in awe, as He smiled, when I was born onto His earth,

My eyes got teary as I heard Him say, “See, I was even at your birth!”

He then came to me and took my hand, compassionate and kind,

“If you think I ever left you, you must have lost your mind.”

He kneeled down beside me, tears rolling down his face,

“You are my prize possession, which no one can replace.”

He took me by my hand, and caressed my pale, white cheek,

He looked at my in the eyes, and then he stared to weep.

“Dear child of mine, I know what you feel, I understand the pain your in,

It was my plan from the beginning to have a world free of sin.

I saw you in the dark of night, I saw you on the floor,

I saw you in the bathroom; I was knocking on your door.

I saw you in the car, I was weeping with eminence pain,

I saw the hurt in your eyes, I heard you call upon my name.

I held your hand and stood by you, I never left your side,

I have been waiting for you to come to me, and let go of all your pride.

I am your Maker, your Creator, your God and your Friend,

I am the one that will never leave you, on whom you can always depend.

Trust in me and always know, I will hold your hand,

I will always love you, more then you will ever understand.”

As I heard these words, I came back to the bed where I lay,

Wondering if that just happened, and didn’t know what to say.

I picked up my dusty old Bible, and read a verse or two,

Wondering why I didn’t turn to Him, because He would get me through.

I read of His healing power, of His unfailing love,

I read of His mercy and grace, He sends us from above.

I looked at the words printed in red, and let them soak in,

Wondering what the world would be like, if it were free of sin.

I let His mercy soothe my soul, His love carried me away,

I lost my train of thought, and didn’t know what to say.

Jesus cares, and He sees, all of your sorrows and your pain,

He sees your faults and flaws, and loves you all the same.

He made you in His image, you are perfect, precious treasure,

You cannot know how much He loves you, you could never measure.

If you ever question His love, or if he hears you when you call,

Just read about the blind man, because he saw it all.

CRUISE!!!!

2009-08-25T19:25:00.000-07:00

this was my absolute favorite vacation of my ENTIRE life!! I cannot share all of the photos here! but check out my FB to see more. I also have them on another website for those of my family members that do not have Facebook, so that you can see them!
It was AWESOME!! We went to Coco Cay, the Bahamas, Puerto Rico, and St. Thomas! It was SOOO beautiful and sooo amazing! I am so blessed that I was able to go, and that I received such an amazing gift!!!

We swam with dolphins, toured, went to a real rain forest, para sailed, walked around, went to many beaches!! OH MY!!! it was amazing!!

Playdate with Davis at the pool

2009-08-25T18:57:00.000-07:00

We went to the pool with Davis the day before I left on my trip! We went to celebrate a fellow nanny's birthday! it was a lot of fun, other then she got her phone stolen! People just need to be nice!!! :>)
It was a LOT of fun! the kids had a blast, and we will for sure be going here again soon, but leaving the phones in the car!!!!

BACK IN THE US

2009-08-23T19:51:00.000-07:00

It has been a VERY VERY long 2 weeks! I had my 10 days of vacation, and have been NON STOP for the last week I have been back! The cruise was AMAZING! I had a great time, and am blessed that I had the opportunity to go! :D I came back, and things just were CRAZY CRAZY CRAZY! then with going back and forth to hand out goodies, dinner with friends, helping set up Discovery, getting things together for the kid's first week of school, and then Discovery weekend!!!!!!
In other words, this is my FIRST time to BREATHE!!!!
I will post about the cruise soon, I have been getting e-mails waiting for pics and such! Believe me, Im getting to it, I just have a LOT on my plate! school start Tuesday, so this is going to be a LONG LONG week!!!

Pig tails

2009-08-03T12:04:00.001-07:00

Ella has found her new favorite hair doo! I think it is rather cute! she is still for the most part, but gets a little impatient at the end! SHE IS TOO CUTE!! :D

5AM Work Outs

2009-08-01T07:10:00.000-07:00

I started, last week, working out, eating healthy, and trying to take better care of myself. I have lost 17 pounds since December, and would really like to loose 15-20 more! Paul is in the military, so we do HARD CORE running and training! Im really excited to see the outcome of this!!

Heres to 5am work outs.....they are INTENSE to say the least! :D

Overflowing Fountain!!

2009-07-28T21:15:00.000-07:00

I went to a retreat called Surrendered Souls a couple of moths ago....The retreat itself was AMAZING!! I learned so much about myself, and just got to soak up the goodness of all that He is. There was a part of this where you pick a random leaf off of. I picked Song of Solomon 4:9-12. When I read it at the retreat, got it, but really put it to the side, as I really wasn’t ready to do anything with that truth yet.

The last two days have been such a blessing!! I have had SO many of my questions answered, and really peeled back the next layer of my life and have begun the healing process!!! I feel so free, and excited! Almost better then the post D! glow!! J

It is so great to see God’s had at work in my life and I see that as I begin to break through this bondage, and break down the walls of my heart, that this passage rings true in my life. What an amazing display of His love!!!!! AHHH!!! I am so happy to be in this place! So much is going on around me, but finding who I am in HIM, has been a journey, that has been worth every inch……

Below is the passage I picked at the retreat! mind you, it was just the passage, and I had no idea what is was! AMAZING!!

Song Of Songs 4:9-12

You have stolen my heart, my sister, my bride; you have stolen my heart with one glance of your eyes, with one jewel of your necklace.
How delightful is your love , my sister, my bride! How much more pleasing is your love than wine, and the fragrance of your perfume than any spice!
Your lips drop sweetness as the honeycomb, my bride; milk and honey are under your tongue. The fragrance of your garments is like that of Lebanon.
You are a garden locked up, my sister, my bride; you are a spring enclosed, a sealed fountain.

Happy Birthday Discovery AUSTIN!!!

2009-07-28T19:08:00.001-07:00

Discovery was AWESOME this month! It was a lot of work helping plan the party! Every time I had something lined up, people would back out or change something last minute! Needless to say it was AWESOME, and the party planners did such a great job! ;)
So, Happy Birthday Discovery Austin........
Here's to another year of changing lives, putting pieces back together, restoring relationships, mending marriages, and keeping hope, faith and love together.

Oh Rick!! This is my D- Mommy and my D- Daddy! They are the absolute poster children of grace, love, understanding, compassion, loyalty, and stregth! Thier stories are aweome, and I am blessed to be thier "D- Daughter"!!!
Me and Shannon Ficklin! She was my Sunday School teacher when I was younger. Her mom went through in January, and I had NO idea they were related until I went to Patty's house (her mom) and saw pictures of her everywhere! It is CRAZY the way God works things out. She came through D1 this month! :)
Cris, Gio, Me, and Ash.....part of the original Class 5!! :) It was so awesome to have all of them in the same place!! :)

PASSPORT

2009-07-27T20:27:00.000-07:00

I AM SOOO EXCITED!!!!! My passport finally came in!! ELEVEN DAYS till my one week cruise!! I cannot tell you how excited I am!!! Just had to share my enthusiasm.

Austin Discovery in July

2009-07-24T12:48:00.000-07:00

I am so excited about this weekend's Discovery. It is the one year anniversary of having it in Austin. I think that Dallas is up to class 125. This will be #12 in Austin. I wont be going up there today, but will be going up there all this weekend! I have a LOT to get done!!!!
I cannot wait to see all of my friends, and a lot of new ones that are going through D! this week.
What an amazing thing to have 2 Discoveries a month, and on back to back weekend!!
Needless to say, I will be out of pocket, and I know that a lot of you contact me on the weekend to come and take pictures, or babysit....this weekend I will not be available.
Ill be back "online" on Monday at the latest.
Everyone have a GREAT weekend!!!

Thursday Night Dinner!

2009-07-24T07:08:00.000-07:00

I was SO excited to be able to get out of the house and see my mommy her boys and Rick! :)
We had a blast Setting up for Discovery, and I always have fun seeing whoever pops their head in to say hello or help out! I needed to see my Mommy Radliff and get a big squeezy cuddle hug! :D
I just love my life...for the most part anyway.
Today will be the first day that I miss clap in, and Im a little disappointed, but probably need the break! :) I have a lot of prep things to get ready for the party tomorrow night!
YEAH for Discovery weekend! :)

Dinner with My mom and Discovery peeps

2009-07-23T14:10:00.000-07:00

I am SO excited to get out of the house tonight! I have had the 3 kids all alone this week and needless to say, I AM READY FOR A BREAK!
My Mom and her 3 boys and hubby are coming down for Discovery this weekend, and we are all going to dinner tonight! :) IM SO EXCITED!
I got to see her on Sunday, but am excited to see and spend time with them all tonight!
I LOVE MY MOMMY RADLIFF! :D

"not my hair"

2009-07-22T18:59:00.000-07:00

Tonight, Ella wanted her hair "just like yours Ms. Sachel".
So, i did it the best way i knew how. Tarren came in and started to play with her and tackled her for a second. and i hear this "NO NO NO TARwEN!! you gonna mess up my Sachel hairdoo!"
HAHAH!! it was the cutest thing EVER! :)
I live for moments like that!

How are you defined?

2009-07-19T20:45:00.000-07:00

There were so many party of this weekend that were awesome! There are so many things I want to share before I forget, but it is 11:13pm, and I have to take the kiddos to the water park in the morning, so I will try to do an overview, and then elaborate later.
There are so many things that happen in our lives that define us. I was reading in John the other day about the man who was blind from birth; and about how God healed him. and he said, " I once was blind, but now I see".
What an amazing testament to God's grace, splendor, and love for His children.
How do you define yourself? For so many years, I defined myself as the "victim". Because of my past, that was what I knew, that is all I had ever lived. But to now profess that I am a VICTOR, is so liberating! To be able to say, "I once was a victim, but now am a victor" is such a powerful thing.
It is so amazing to me that God gives us such a gift. To be able to take words like,
fear, anger,and guilt
To be able to change that to
joy, laughter, and over-comer speaks volumes into my life
My life is crazy right now- as I am searching it for what His plan is for my life. I wish it was always easy, but then again, it is when we are in the pits, that we truly learn how to rely on Him for our comfort and peace.
When my Mommy Radliff holds me, I cannot explain how it makes me feel. To feel that, see how she looks at me, and what that does for my heart is something I cannot put into words.
It is that same feeling I get when I allow God to take control and let His will be done. There are so many things in this world that we can look at in a negative way, but if you allow God to live in your heart, and take those thoughts captive- it is amazing to see what He will say to you, the way He will hold you, and speak into your life.
Thats all for now- i am in for bed! More later......

Dallas Discovery

2009-07-17T11:37:00.000-07:00

I will be headed to Dallas this whole weekend, so if you need to reach me, please call or leave a message. I will be busy, but will try to get back to you ASAP! I know a lot of you try to reach me on weekends, but i may be out of pocket a lot! YEAH for Discovery!
I am ready to see hearts open, lives changed, relationships restored, and God's hand at work in the lives He so lovingly created!!
CHECK IT OUT!!!

http://www.discovery-training.com/

Plane Tickets

2009-07-16T20:25:00.000-07:00

My plane tickets for Florida came in today! witch means..... IM REALLY GOING ON THE CRUISE! We put in the application for our passports, and we are crossing our fingers that they will be here in time. I will be checking early next week to see where they are in the whole process.
I am really thrilled! I have SO much to do.
This weekend will be Dallas Discovery, next weekend is Austin Discovery. I had planned to go to Houston, but I REALLY need to finish Harrison's nursery (http://harrison-thehpproject.blogspot.com/) before Jo Jo brings everyone home! But, I do not have to decide now! But now that I am going to Dallas AND Austin Discovery, that only leaves 2 weekends open! My, I am always doing something it seems! :D
Anyway, I am VERY elated that the tickets are in, everything is coming together! :0

Bubbles

2009-07-16T17:23:00.000-07:00

This was so funny that I just had to share it!
There are many times through out working with Ella that I blow bubbles with my spit! I am aware many people do not think this is cool, and rather nasty, but Ella thinks it is SOO funny!
So today, we are watching Tarzan, and I hear this......

MRS. RACHEL, MRS. RACHEL.......the baby is blowing bubbles just like you!! BAHAHAHAH!!!

here is what she saw! :D
Love my beaners

Little "Photo Shoot"

2009-07-15T09:36:00.000-07:00

I wanted to take the 3 kids and get some good pictures for Paul before he leaves for his 6 month deployment!
I think some of them were just PERFECT! I am no expert, but i think I may get into photography in the near future! It is really something that I enjoy, and look forward to doing! ENJOY! :D)
My nanny babies are precious!

my FREE cruise!!!

2009-07-13T20:49:00.000-07:00

I will be headed to my 7 night cruise on the 8th of August, if I get my passport done in time! :) EEKKK! I'm pretty sure it will be a BLAST!

http://www.nick.com/minisites/familycruise/entertainment.jhtml

I'll be fling to Florida from Austin on the 8th then meeting the ship, and going to Puerto Rico, the Bahamas, St. Thomas, and Coco Cay! :D Im STOKED to say the least! we will be swimming with Dolphins, going to a formal night, getting on the Islands and swimming, shopping, and other different excursions while we are there! :D and the best part,....................

ITS FREE FOR ME! :D
I will have a deck room view and a lot to do! I have some tanning to do and some shopping! Im glad that I didnt have to shell out the 10 grand so that I can do shopping before and when I go! :)
God is good, and i SOOOO needed this vacation......!

cereal mishap

2009-07-13T06:43:00.000-07:00

So the other day the McConnell's and I are all at the house just hanging out! Swimming, relaxing, you know, whatever you do when there are 17 people in the house! WHEHH!!! glad that is over! :)
So, at one point, I go to the pantry for a snack, I cannot remember what; but that is beside the point! Little Ms. Ella comes running over and boldly professes,
Ella: "Mrs. Rachel, can i have some "cunsy skare cakers"
Me: "You want some WHAT???"
Ella: "cunsy skare cakers"
Me: "can you point to them, because I cannot understand what you are saying"
Ella: "NO!!!!! I WANT SOME CUNSY SKARE CAKERS PWEASE!!!!!"

Clearly she was very upset, and wanted whatever she was talking about! I had no clue. Upon further investigation i came to find that she was talking about CRUNCHY SQUARE CRACKERS

I proceed to pull item after item after chip bag after cracker out of the pantry!
We finally got to the bottom of it....
So, if your child EVER asks you for "crunchy square crackers".....PLEASE be aware that they are actaully talking about....................

CINNAMON TOAST CRUNCH

Sisters and Baby Bird

2009-05-23T21:11:00.000-07:00

Ella LOVES to swim, but loves it even more when her sister Saige goes with her! they play really well together-
Side note-----
Last week, I went to the garage and heard something. I found this little baby birdie! i RAN fast like superman into the house to grab ella! She fell in love! she didnt want to do anything but sit at feed the bird! :)

Pictures at the park

2009-05-23T21:00:00.000-07:00

Ella wanted to go to the park, and duhh, I took her! She is a little Princess, and though she doesnt get everything she wants, if it has to do with being outdoors, I will jump in a heart beat! She LOVES to have her picture taken, and we had a blast!! :)
Love my little Taco! :)

Water Baby

2009-05-23T20:52:00.000-07:00

Ella's favorite time is in the WATER!!! anything to do with water! she is a water baby! for a couple weeks we had some FULL ON FITS because she wanted to "swim" in the tub! really, there is no room! She is an absolute treasure and super cute! : ) She has a personality all her own, and she is a little Princess Diva! And she is only 3! :)

Strawberry Patch

2009-05-23T19:53:00.000-07:00

st

We always love going to Sweet Berry Farm!! :)
We dug patatoes, and picked strawberries....well, the kids just ate most of them! THEY LOVED IT!! we went in October for pumpkin picking! It is such a great farm! there were goats, horses, and other animals the kids played with! I love going out! And duhhh....ella and i were matching! :)

Playdate with Annabella at Zilker Park

2009-05-20T20:39:00.000-07:00

We had a BLAST with Annabella! Ella and her are like two peas in a pod! they are so cute and get along so great together! :) I love it when Ella gets to play with her "priends" Annabella and Davis are for sure her favoites! :)