Priorities

The last couple of weeks have been so full.  IEP meetings, staff meetings, cookie baking, candy making, gift shopping, gift wrapping, house cleaning, etc....The list goes on and on.  I am feeling a bit overwhelmed, stressed, moody, etc..... The list goes on and on.

I always get a complimentary set of tickets to the Colorado Springs Youth Symphony Holiday Concert.  This includes a pass to the "exclusive" reception before the concert.  I usually have to beg my family to go with me.  In years past I have found myself calling my friends at the last minute to see if they would like to go.  This year, I decided that with everything else going on, I was not going to the concert. I got the tickets like always and put them aside. I casually mentioned that I had them, but I really didn't expect anyone to want to go.  Becca said "Mom, I would love to go with you, if I could get a new dress".  Being the mother that I am, and I don't always assume the best from my children, I thought, " I bet she just wants the dress".  The week went on and I got busier and busier.  By Thursday (the concert being on Friday), I was trying to persuade Becca NOT to go.   It felt like I had so much to do and so little time to do it in. I told her I would buy her a dress anyway.  She looked at me and said "Mom, I just want to spend time with YOU!". That hit me like a ton of bricks. 

Friday afternoon, we went to Kohl's and found a dress that she adored.  We went to "My Big Fat Greek Restaurant" for dinner (Becca loves Greek food).  We went to the fancy reception and the concert. As we were waiting for the concert to begin, we were looking for my former students, in the program, who are now in the Youth Symphony.  There were quite a few.  Becca looked at me and said, "Mom, look what you have done.".  Yeah, I was amazed that my sweet Becca could read my tired soul and soothe it with her words.  I am amazed that I have raised such and amazing daughter. I am ashamed that I was too busy taking care of "things" and was missing what was really important.  Thank goodness she was strong enough to say, "Mom stop.".  I just want to spend time with you.

That good ole gift of time.  It really is so much more than we think or even imagine.  This holiday, that is what I want to give my family.  More of the gift of time, from me to them.

Happy Thanksgiving

Our Thanksgiving week was quiet and uneventful.  Quiet was just what I needed as life is crazy as ever now that the Christmas season is underway.  I can't believe how busy I am and will be at school and at home to boot.

I realize that I have much to be thankful for.  I am so thankful that I have my family and friends.  When I get too hard on myself, they are there to pick me up and remind me that I am loved.  They love me even when I feel unlovable.

Our sweet Beagle, Penny had a scare this week.  She may not be totally out of the woods just yet.  She appears to have bruising over her entire right side. The vet said that she has fluid on her right lung and even some hemorrhaging behind her right eye.  I fear that she has a clotting condition, but the meds the vet prescribed appear to be working for now.

Today, I have thought a lot about my dad.  He would have been 66 years old today. That still seems young to me.  There are times I miss him so much.  We didn't talk much, but I always knew he was there.  Now I wish we had talked more or perhaps that we would have listened more to each other.  There is a space in my life that he used to fill.  Now that space is just empty. There is simply nothing there and nobody can fill it.  It makes me wonder if my own children will feel the same when I am gone.  I miss so many these days.  Tom's parents, Granny, Michelle, Daddy....  So many spaces in my life now.

On a brighter note, Tom and Becca both have auditions for a community production of "Fiddler on the Roof".  I know they would both appreciate prayers for them.

TTFN

Seasons

Fall has come.  Today we have our first real cold, dreary day.  The good thing about where we live is that I know this will pass.  Tomorrow will be sunny and warmer.  I actually like days like today.  I like to sleep a bit later and spend quality time with the family.

I was so proud of Laura last night as she had a role in The Crucible.  It was such a heavy production and not very upbeat, but the kids did an excellent job.  It made me think about how rumors are started.  Perhaps, today, people don't get killed because of what someone says to be true, but I think we can sure start rumors that can kill another's spirit.  I loved the ending where John Proctor refused to have his name nailed to the church. He said "this is the only name I will ever have". He protected his name for the sake of his family.  Like I said, heavy, but well done.

We are heading into our last week before a much needed week off for Thanksgiving.  Things at school remain hectic and tough, so I remain hectic and tough too.  My orchestras will play in public, for the first time on Thursday night.  I am so proud of their hard work.  I got an email from the mother that got my blood pressure up during conferences.  She was nice to me and thanked me for all that I am doing for her son. I smile because I have been praying for her and her family. I know it's not always all about me.

My head is reeling, thinking about some upcoming changes in our lives. Laura is about to be a Senior. More and more I see our life changing.  A season is coming to an end and I think I see another on the horizon.  God keeps telling me, "have faith".  Change is hard for me, yet it is inevitable.  I am keeping my options and my life open to wherever God is leading me and leading us.  Keep us in your prayers.

TTFN

First Quarter Down!!!

Last week was the hardest yet this year. Not only was it physically taxing, but mentally as well.  Tom and I often pray before we are off to work. Tom was praying with me and he said "Lord watch over Shari during this roller coaster day".  That was exactly as it seemed.  Up one minute and down the next.

The conferences were both Wednesday evening and Thursday and into the evening on Thursday.  I was triple booked at some of these conferences.  No time to collect my thoughts, and I tried to make it to each and every one. 

The highlights were as follows:  Wednesday, I went to two different conferences for two different children, who have been adopted during the last couple of years.  One child was in fourth grade and another in kindergarten.  I met with the adoptive parents.  In both cases, they have been blessed with the most amazing, happy, considerate, and overall amazing children you could ask for.  It made me want to adopt more children.  Tom did not agree.  I thought about how resilient children are.  I thought about how wonderful and blessed these students are to have the parents that chose them.  In each case, there was the nervousness of meeting with their child's teacher.  In both cases we were happy to report that these children and making big gains academically and socially.  Each conference was so happy. I think this was the part of the roller coaster ride where you know the tricky stuff is yet to come.

I met with a set of parents whose child had just been diagnosed with a learning disorder.  We suspected it all along, but to actually see and visit with the scared parents was another matter.  This is the part of my job I love and hate all at the same time.  I wanted to take those parents, hug them tight and promise them that I will do all I can to help their child.  I wanted to tell them that it WILL be alright.  Their child is going to grow and learn and be a VERY high functioning member of society. These things were said and in the end, everyone was in tears.  The parents were crying because they had "lost" their perception of a perfectly "normal" child.  They blamed themselves.  I cried because I am honored to serve this family. I cried because there was a time when I too "lost" my perception of a perfectly "normal" child.  If I have anything to do with it, this child will learn and grow. This was the part of the roller coaster ride where you are going up hill and you know a drop will come.

On Thursday, the roller coaster plunged down fast.  It took my breath away. It would have been the moment when they try to take your picture so that you can prove you survived the scary fall.  I went to a conference on a child that I had worked with last year.  The student made much, much academic growth.  I was so pleased.  The parent had been a little difficult, but I expected there to be one sour apple in every batch.  The parent said, "when I am done with the teacher, I would like to ask you a couple of IEP questions".  No problem, I said. The thought actually went through my head, "What have I done now?" I serviced her child, I have responded to her emails. I honestly couldn't think of a reason why she would have a problem.  She came to my office and proceeded to question everything I do with her child. I was floored. I called in administration and I think they sort of set her straight.  My team was so supportive.  I just sat and cried for a moment and then I was mad.  This was the very thing I had feared.  This was the fall.  The good thing is, I will not change a thing about how and when I teach this child.  The bad thing is, I am a perfectionist and I beat myself up all weekend.

I read something about Perfectionism vs. Excellence.  When we are perfectionists, we set our selves up for the fall.  It's all black and white. Either we are successful or not.  If we strive less toward perfection and more toward excellence, then we are more apt to be successful.  We appreciate the process of achieving our goal.  Did the sour apple upset me? Yes.  Did it cause me to reflect on my teaching, tweak it, and make it better? Yes. I am trying to appreciate the process and strive for excellence.  I want to look at this incident as a learning experience not as a failure.  I need to look at it as part of my strive for excellence and not perfection.

I want to think of the coming week as the part of the ride where we are pulling back into where we first got on the ride.  It's a new full week with a normal schedule.  There may be some surprises, but I suppose it's all a process to becoming the best teacher I can be.

TTFN

Working Hard

Work is kicking my back side right now.  I am in the middle of preparing for report cards and parent conferences.  I always get so nervous about talking to parents.  I do my best and I work so very hard, but I am always fearful that this is not enough.  I love my students and I always put them first and do my best to be the teacher they need.  I am praying that things will go well.

Tom and Becca have decided to try out for another community play.  The play will be "Fiddler on the Roof".  I know I will be coaxed into making some of the costumes.  This deal will take place in April.  I am proud of them but I sure dread the constant work, time away from home, and making costumes.

Laura is busy with her school production of "The Crucible".  I guess the girls got Tom's DNA when it comes to acting.  This is not my thing, but I love watching my family shine.

The next couple of days will be crazy busy getting all the school stuff taken care of, but I am really looking forward to the weekend and perhaps a bit of rest.

TTFN.

Back Home Again

The last week has been a blur.  Writing training, site planning, care team meetings, IB conference, IEP meetings, etc....  I feel like I will finally get back to teaching this week.  It was all fun, especially the IB conference, but I am "plum wore out".

At the International Baccalaureate Conference in Denver spanned Friday evening through Monday afternoon.  I was accompanied by eight co-workers. I learned about how to integrate IB practices into my classroom.  All of the IB verbage finally makes sense to me.  I also learned how fun my co-workers can be.  When I got home, Tom asked me if there was anyone that I didn't care for after spending all weekend with them.  I realized that no, there is not one person I don't like.  We really appreciate and value each other.  I know I have said it before, but I really love Antelope Trails Elementary. 

This week finds the Russell home busy as usual.  Becca is working on a "movie" for her IB Exposition project.  Laura has a role in her high school production of "The Crucible".  She is also busy trying to keep her head above water in her IB curriculum.  Tom has been sick with a stomach bug. He is about over it, but not back to normal just yet.

Yes, IB is a whole theme in our home.  I teach the IB Primary Years Program.  Becca is a student in the IB Middle Years Program and Laura is a Junior in the IB Diploma Years Program. 

It's Wednesday night and I am looking forward to a restful and healthy weekend.

Hello Fall.

Here in Colorado, Fall means a few things.  My birthday, we always get snow on the Peak for the before mentioned occasion and the Aspens change.  Tonight's blog will sort of combine them all.

We did indeed get snow on Pikes Peak, the week before my birthday. I always know that I am getting a year older and that Fall is on it's way, when this happens. 

My birthday was magical.  I didn't want to really think about it as school has been horribly busy.  I have been stressed and all I wanted for my birthday were a simple "happy" wishes from my family.  What I got instead, was just what THEY knew I needed. 

Tom, secretively took the day off.  He brought me the most beautiful bouquet of yellow and orange roses and placed them on my desk, at school, while I was in a meeting.  They were some of the most beautiful flowers he has ever given me.  The cute thing of it was, and I believe what made the flowers so beautiful, was that he bought the flowers from King Soopers, took them home, and looked up on line how to arrange them.  He did an awesome job.  It's good to know he has another skill in store for when we retire. 

I worked late, as usual.  Becca and Tom picked me up from school and escorted me into the house.  There on our dining room table was a glass of burgundy and Tom had made a wonderful beef stew for dinner.  I was so tired and so appreciative, I couldn't hold back the tears.

Just as we finished this delightful meal, Debra and Doug Harnly came over bearing gifts.  Tom brought out the homemade Pina Colada Cheesecake that he had made from scratch.  It was sooo good.  He was sooo proud of himself. My mom and sister, Tammie, had called and wished me "Happy Birthday" and Carol had brought over the sweetest card and a gift. Tom bought me a beautiful "Hope" Willow Angel.  Becca bought me a beautiful planter and Laura bought me a movie.  I felt so loved. For the first time in a long time, my bucket was filled up.  It was a perfect ending to a perfect day.

Next week, I will be attending a workshop, two site planning meetings, and a conference in Denver that will span all of next weekend.  Needless to say, I needed to destress.

After church, Tom, Becca and I decided to take a drive to Cripple Creek to see the Aspens.  We headed up Ute pass and gazed at the damage the summer fires had done.  We could clearly see how the beast had jumped the highway in places.  We traveled on and went in the West side of Cripple Creek.  Becca is a history buff like me, so we took a self guided tour through the Mt. Pigsah Cemetery.  We learned all about the movers and shakers that are buried there. We went to the grave site of Pearle DeVere, a famous brothel owner and famous "lady".  We went down into Cripple Creek and visited the town history museum.  It was so much fun to see all the old "stuff".  We were amazed at how life has changed over the last hundred years.  Becca was captured by the ghost stories of the town.  She wants to go back for a ghost tour in October. We drove by the haunted St. Nicholas Hospital.  She loved it and couldn't wait to get home and tell Laura about our adventures.  Laura was less than enthused as she had spent the whole day studying chemistry.

                                                            R.I.P. Pearle

The leaves to and from Cripple Creek were beautiful.  They were not as beautiful as in years past due to the drought.  It was a cloudy day, but there was still lots of beauty to behold.  I am so thankful that I live in such a gorgeous place.  I was reminded that even though the fire came, God and his blessings of beauty still remain.  He is still God and I still love calling Colorado my home.

Happy Birthday to me.......

Well, it's the third week of September and that means I will turn another year older.  I am feeling all of my 46 years. 

School is a bit stressful and Laura and I just can't seem to see eye to eye on anything.  Sometimes, I think that child wishes that I would just disappear.  Sometimes, I wish I could.  I just sit back and hope that one day, she will want to be my daughter again.  Teenage years are tough. 

Becca continues with physical therapy on her ankle.  It appears to be getting  better.  She is gearing up for her play at school.  I can't wait to see her shine. 

Tom is doing well and continues on his weight loss.  He has been walking to work at least three times a week.  He is looking great.  I suppose this would be a good time to announce that I have lost over 25 pounds.  It feels great to be healthier.  Yeah for both of us!!!

I hope all of you have a fabulous week that has minimal stress and maximum fun.

TTFN

Balloon Fest

I realized last night that I was negligent in getting a post done this week.  School has been CRAZY busy, but I am hoping that this week is a bit better.  I keep telling myself that all this organizing and hard work will pay off in the bye and bye. 

I got a call this evening from my mother. She wanted to know if there was anything I wanted from Granny's house.  That was a tough one.  There is nothing I want that would bring her back.  There are things that bring back memories, but they are just that.  Memories.

We went to the Balloon Festival last weekend.  It is an annual tradition.  In the 18 years that we have lived here, I don't think we have ever missed it.  I remember taking Laura when she was just a month old.  Becca was 4 months old when she first went. Here are a couple pics from this year.

 I want to mention the happenings of last weekend.  My Laura performed in the Rampart High School performance of The Little Shop of Horrors.  She played Rosette, one of the back up singers.  For any of you who know my Laura, you know that she is a hockey playing, jean wearing, no make up kind of gal.  In the musical she had to play the total opposite.  She wore about 10 different dresses and lots of make up.  When she came out on stage, it took my breath away.  She was beautiful.  It was a moment I shall cherish forever.  It was the moment I realized that my baby is now a beautiful woman. I have known this for a while, but there was something about other people (including boys) recognizing it too.  She did a fabulous job on everything.  I got a little teary when she did her solo at the end.  The girl can sing and I am so very proud of her.  I want time to stop and for her to remain in my home, under my wing, but I realize that more and more, she is preparing to fly on her own.  I just hope she flies home often.

TTFN.

The Dirty Dash

Yesterday was so much fun.  Just what I needed to get my mind off the "stuff".  Well worth the time and effort.  I don't think I have ever been this dirty.  It's part of my wellness plan.  I really want to do three 5ks this year.  So far, one down and two to go.

So much fun!!

It's Gotta Get Better

This week has been absolutely crazy.  I have had two workshops in the course of a week and I feel soo behind in getting my students assessed and put into their proper groups.  I worked until 9:00 last night and 6:00 tonight.  Considering I only work a half day on Fridays, this week has involved way too much work.  I struggle with balancing my work and my family.  I always feel guilty about spending too much time with either.  I am hoping to regroup this weekend. Tomorrow I will run the Dirty Dog Mud Run. That should be just what I need to get me out of this funk.

I have definitely been in a funk.  It's been so stressed with school starting activities, but it seems as if this catastrophic summer will never end.

On Wednesday, I got a Face Book message from a friend of mine from high school.  Michelle Rocker was our base player. She was simply a part of my circle of friends that I have held dear for a long time.  When my dad died, she just "showed up" at his funeral.  I hadn't seen her in over 25 years.  She was there and I so appreciated her.  Michelle was diagnosed several years ago with breast cancer.  She was treated with chemotherapy and went into remission.  Shortly after my dad died, she told me that the cancer was back and that coming to Colorado to visit me was on her bucket list.  Bucket list. Things she wanted to do before she died.  I was still hopeful, but I kept closer in touch with her on Face book.  I invited and wished for her to come visit.  I thought about where in the world I would take someone on their "bucket list" trip.  She was always quick to remind me that I was a true friend, or a beautiful person.  She quietly watched my life via the computer. I saw that her hair had fallen out once again.  It still never registered that Michelle, my beautiful friend, could actually die.  On Wednesday, I checked Face book and there was a message from Michelle.  She told me goodbye.  She said that she had only days left. She said that she was going home to be with her lord.  I just sat and cried.  Then I called Janice to tell her that our lifelong friend was passing away.

I have thought about Michelle so much since then. I was wondering what it must be like to know you are about to die. How can you say goodbye? How can you get ready for such a huge trip? Are you scared? Is she in pain? Is she so drugged with pain medications that she really doesn't know what is happening? Is she gone? Did she know how much I appreciated her? She never made it here for her bucket list. Did she make it to Colorado via my pictures? Is she alright? Will she say hello to my Daddy and Granny? Did she get her hair back in heaven? Is it still a beautiful strawberry blond color? So much to think about in this tired brain.

Thursday did not prove to be much better.  You see, Thursday was the anniversary of my dad's death.  I don't think August 30th will ever come again, when I don't think of him. I was teary all day. I wasn't sure if I was just tired or depressed about the loss of my dad and my friend.   I am pretty sure it was a combination of all of the above.  Daniel, my brother, shared a few photos of my dad that I have come to love.  These photos were taken when he was a child and when he was a teenager.  I noticed how happy he appears. I wonder if that handsome smile is on his face now.

As you can imagine, Thursday was tough!!!  I had no idea that it would get even tougher.  I got a call from Amelia's mother.  She is my sweet sweet student and her family has become dear friends to us.  I love that family and I love my special little friend.  Her mother called me at school to tell me that she has two tumors in her brain.  For the second time in as many days, I sat and wept. 

I wish I could say that there is a silver lining to this post.  I just can't find one today.  One thing I do know is that "Life is hard, but God is good". I am trusting him. I am praying that Michelle makes it safely home with as little pain as possible.  I know my Daddy is in a better place, even if I miss him a bit more on August 30th.  I WILL continue to be with my Amelia and help her in any way I can.  I pray for healing for her.  I pray that her daily shots don't hurt too much.  I pray that her parents feel God's presence and KNOW that he is in control. I pray that as I run that 5k tomorrow, I find a lot to smile about. After all, who could be sad when running in mud?

Happenings

Last week proved to be crazy busy as I am testing and placing my students in their proper reading groups.  I worked and worked and I am still not done.  I am off to a writing training tomorrow, so some of the work will have to wait until Tuesday.  I am trying to remind myself to pace myself and be kind to me.  I was offered an opportunity to work another half day.  I now have Friday afternoons off.  My paycheck will definitely be a little nicer to us. 

Becca didn't make the softball team, but she is plugging along and doing quite well in orchestra.  Laura is frantically getting ready for her Little Shop of Horrors production.  It helps that Laura can now drive herself to all of the rehearsals.  Tom is getting ready for the big move to a new place for our church.  He is the tech. lead for our church and lots of sound equipment has to be hooked up and readied.  As for me, I am trying to keep things going at home and at school.

This week could prove to be a hard one.  On August 30th, my daddy will be gone for one year.  I suppose it is a celebration of sorts as I KNOW where he is and that he is forever home.  I also KNOW that I will see him again.  I also KNOW that I miss him.  I keep thinking of him.  The way he laughed.  The sound of his voice.  The little things that used to annoy me, but now, I would give anything to have him annoy me just one more time. I selfishly miss him.

 TTFN

Lots to Think About.

My thoughts are so very full today.  Lots and lots to think about.

School has started and my thoughts have been in a whirl ever since.  So many meetings and so many things to get organized. I love my job, once all this beginning stuff is done.

I think that every teacher has a student that he/she connects with.  I did this with a former student, at a former school. I talk to her and her family almost weekly.  Last week I learned that she may have a brain tumor.  On Friday, I had a good cry and then went over to see her.  She doesn't fully understand the impact of what is happening, but that doesn't make it any easier for her parents.  I love this child and I love her family.  Please keep her in your prayers.

Last night, my nephew, Josh, left for Afghanistan.  He is a mechanic in the Marines.  I still remember the day his momma called me to tell me that he was born.  I can't believe that little boy is grown and is a soldier. I pray that he returns to us in 7 months, safe and sound.

Last Saturday, Tom and I finally celebrated our 25th wedding anniversary.  We had an awesome time on an inflatable kayak trip down the Rio Grande River.  I kept thinking about how that river was much like our marriage.  We had to maneuver a lot of rocks.  Some of the rough waters were actually fun when we figured out how to work together. The still waters were deep, but we were able to rest from rowing and just let the river carry us. Here are some pictures from our adventures on the river.

We had so much fun. I hope we don't wait another 25 years to go again.

A New School Year.

I have promised myself that I would keep up with the blog throughout the coming year.  I won't be able to blog as often during the school year, but I don't want to forget some of the wonderful things and not so wonderful things that happen.

To start the year off on a real positive note, I have lost 20 pounds.  It feels REALLY good.  I have to get the hang of what I am going to eat now that I have to pack a lunch and don't always get to eat what I want, when I want. I am determined to be successful.  I heard a wonderful quote last week.  It was, "You can't fail if you don't quit".  That's what I am hanging onto with my weight loss.

Tomorrow, students start back to school.  It feels like yesterday that we just got out for break.  It has indeed been a strange and eventful summer.  It will be a summer that I will never forget.

During the summer of 2012 I learned that God is good and will show his mercy most during tragedy. I learned that I am not in control of what happens in my life, nor do I want to be. I learned that I am stronger than I ever thought and that humanity is kinder than I thought. I learned that material things don't matter and people do. I learned that death means saying goodbye for just a while.  I learned that I better not blink because my children are growing up fast and I want to savor the time I have left with them.  I have learned to forgive myself more and take care of myself.

All in all, it was indeed a great summer.

Tomorrow begins new adventures with my students.  New things to learn and new ways to grow. Bring it on!!!!

Meant to Teach

It has taken me a while to make my brain really believe that I am a teacher.  Teaching is something that I was "meant" to do, not something I was planning on doing.  I NEVER thought, as I was working my tail off in high school for college scholarships, that I would become a teacher.  I wanted to be a nurse.  Actually, I wanted to be a doctor, but I never thought I was smart enough. I have learned differently, but that was then.

When Laura developed epilepsy, she was about to enter kindergarten.  That is where my teaching journey started.  I was afraid to send her to school, but didn't want to shelter her by teaching her at home.  I went to school with her. I volunteered all the time in her class.  Deb Harnly was her teacher and we are still the best of friends. She was awesome and when I grow up, as a teacher, I want to be just like her.  As I volunteered, I began to tutor children and found that I LOVED it.  I also found that I was good at it. 

I hung on to the volunteering.  It continued full force until Becca was in first grade, when I began to substitute teach in District 20. I substitute taught for three years and then I got a job I couldn't refuse.  That was when I was asked to go back to school and become a REAL teacher in District 49.  Stories of that adventure start are in earlier posts.  

Yesterday, I started back to work with a huge pep rally for all D20 staff at Pine Creek High School and then an all day SPED training.  The pep rally is something that I usually dread, but it was so good to see friends from all over.  I saw some of my daVinci colleagues that I haven't seen in a really long time.

As I sat in the rally, starting my fifth year of REAL teaching, I felt like a teacher. I have hung on to my nursing license and I use it from time to time, but I know that REALLY, I am a teacher and I truly love it. 

Old Friends

Here is a big shout out to Janice and Jim on the birth of their son, Lowell.  This is one special baby. Janice and Jim waited a long time for the baby that was right for them to adopt.  After many disappointments, they got their firecracker on July 4th. This baby is so blessed to have Janice and Jim as parents.

I had a wonderful phone call with Janice last night.  She and I have been friends since the seventh grade.  That has been over 30 years.  She is the one person in this world who has been with me through it all.  Those crazy teenage years.  She kept telling me the fellow I dated all through high school was not the guy for me, but I chose not to listen.  She was my violin partner through orchestra contests. She was the person I could share my deepest secrets.  We stayed in touch during college.  She became Dr. Jan, I became a nurse. When I got married, she was my maid of honor.  When she got married, I was her matron of honor.  When I had my children, she was one of the first people I told. She was with me through Laura having epilepsy and then outgrowing it. We both have lost our fathers in the last few years. Now we will be able to share parenting stories.

We don't often get to talk, but when we do, it's just the same.  We catch up and enjoy each other, just as we did way back when.  When I talk to her, I am young again.  Who needs a Fountain of Youth, when you have great friends who are always there to lift you up?

Congratulations Janice!  Call me soon.

Rest in Peace

Granny was laid to rest today.  My body wasn't there, but my mind and heart sure were.  I am so happy for her, but selfishly sad that I can't talk with her.  She was such a wise woman.  She often spoke her mind, whether it was appropriate or not.  She hurt my feelings from time to time, but I loved her and I know I am a better person because she was in my life.  I saw pictures of her service today, including the open casket part. She didn't look like herself.  Her skin was too made up and dark.  She wore a yellow gown that she had picked out for herself.  Aunt Shirleen found her burial clothes in a box, labeled, in her closet, when she went to look for something for Granny to be buried in. Granny knew her time was near.  I suppose you must when you are 97 years old. I missed seeing Ricky and his family as well as Brock and his family.  I haven't seen them in years and now I know that I may never see them again. During the time of her funeral, I worked out in my yard.  She would have wanted me to.  For dinner tonight, I made black eyed peas in her honor. They tasted wonderful as she taught me well.

I went up to school today and got my desk organized. Tomorrow I have a day long class on how to teach students to write.  It shall be interesting I am sure.  Friday is my first full day of work.  I am looking forward to a normal routine and getting on with life.  It's been an interesting summer, filled with two deaths, a tragic fire and a mission's trip to Joplin.  I have learned to appreciate all that I have. I have learned to appreciate my family and cherish each and every day I have with them. I have learned that I am stronger and smarter than I ever thought I was.

Here's to next summer being a little less eventful.

Granny

Yesterday, at 9:15 EDT, Granny's chariot came and took her home.  I will miss her, but I am so relieved that she is no longer suffering and is finally reunited with her family.  I wondered if she recognized her mother that she lost when she was ten.  I wondered if Daddy, Pop and Aunt Margaret were there, eagerly waiting for her. I can only imagine what she thought when she was in the presence of our Savior.

I have decided not to go to the funeral in Florida.  I have struggled with this and I have to say, I am still not totally comfortable with my decision.  I have to take a class on Tuesday and my first full day of work, for the new school year, is Friday.  I just feel that I can't afford to go and I need to be at school.  I have prayed about this for two weeks and now I have to trust that I made the right decision. 

Granny and I said goodbye a couple of weeks ago.  I truly thought she would not be with us when I got back home from Joplin. I told her that I loved her. I called her a couple of weeks before that.  Her last words to me were "I love you Shari".  What more could I ask for? What more needs to be said?

When I think of Granny, I think of one word: strong.  She was indeed a very strong woman.  I think of her as she push-mowed her humongous yard, made biscuits and bacon every morning for my grandpa, always had a garden, kept an immaculate house and yard, canned vegetables, and cleaned fish. She survived two husbands and, within the last year, she lost two of her three children.  I hope you rest now, Granny.

Granny (Polly Mary Lot Day Forbes) was from Douglas, Georgia.  Her family has been in Georgia since the 1700s.  I joke with folks when I tell them that I am as southern as "Paula Deen".  She lost her mother when she was ten.  Her dad remarried and she was raised on a hard working farm with a "step" mom.  I don't know what kind of relationship she had with their stepmother.  She never really talked about it.  I think her father was apt to drink too much.  She never talked very positively about her childhood.  She did tell me one time that of all the inventions that have occurred in her lifetime, the telephone was the one she has enjoyed and appreciated the most.  She never learned to drive.  That's unheard of today. She tried once, didn't do so well, so she decided that driving was not for her.  I remember walking to Goodwill with her.  Yes, folks, she started my obsession with Goodwill from a very early age. She taught me to take care of the things I have.  She taught me to value every dollar I have.  She told me that, during the depression, she had to eat green sweet potatoes out of the garden because that is all they had to eat.

At some point, I am thinking around 16 years old or so, she moved to Haines City, Florida and worked in a citrus packing house.  There, she met my grandpa.  Her sisters, Aunt Beatrice, Aunt Fanny, and Aunt Edith all came with her.  Aunt Rose, Aunt Ardele (only child left now), and Uncle Shel all stayed in Georgia.  It was a family joke that at one point, she actually dated Uncle Jack, who Aunt Bea eventually married.  Pop and Granny moved to Tampa after Pop got a job at the shipyards.  There, Aunt Shirlean was born.  Pop got a job with "the county" and they moved back to Haines City.  They bought some property on Lake Tracy.  There Pop built their house, they raised three kids and Granny lived until six months ago.  Her children included Aunt Shirlean, Aunt Margaret and my dad, Danny. She survived the shenanigans of Aunt Margaret (yes, she went on a date and came home married) and she sent my dad off to the Vietnam War. Oh, the changes that house has seen over the last 70 years or so. 

She worked in the local school cafeteria until she retired.  She always said that she worked there so that she could keep my dad in school.  The story goes that he would often leave school and walk home as he didn't like to stay. 

After retirement, she devoted her life to Pop, her family and her home.  She often watched her grandchildren, including me, for a couple weeks at the time. Her grandchildren include me, Tammie, Daniel, Jennifer, Richard, Robert and Brock.  She is survived by great grandchildren and great great grandchildren. Pop died in 1992 after over 50 years of marriage.

At the age of 85, she married Al Forbes.  She loved him.  They were married for a few years, until he passed away.  When you marry at 85, it's hard to plan for a long life together.  I can say that the few years she spent with Al were happy ones.  She loved traveling with him and visiting the local amusement parks.  She had never done these things until this time.  I think Al showed her a part of the world she had never seen. I am so happy that she was able to be in a relationship that filled her heart so much.

I called her every two weeks, for years.  Her mental abilities began to fade this last year, but until this time, she remained sharp as a tack.  I can only hope that I am so lucky.

I will miss her. I will cry over memories I have of her.  In my heart I will celebrate her and cherish the bits of her I see in myself.  I can only hope that I can be "strong", just like her.

Birthday Fun

We had an awesome time last night.  We celebrated the birthdays by our whole family going to Tucano's Brazilian BBQ Restaurant.  Basically, it was a phenomenal salad bar complete with the normal greens as well as pasta salads, wonderful breads, and a hot food section.  The lobster bisque was yummy as well as the crab mango sushi.  We had mashed potatoes and Becca enjoyed the beans and rice.  That was the accompaniment to the main deal which was the meat.  All sorts of steak, pork, chicken, turkey and fish are roasted on a gigantic skewer.  This skewer is then brought to each table and cut according to what you want. It is unlimited eating at its best.  This summer, I have lost over 15 pounds and I am sure I gained a portion back last night. 

We came home, Tom and Laura opened their gifts and we enjoyed watching the Olympics.  We had recorded the Olympics from the night before so we got to watch the Women's Gymnastics Team win the gold. After we recovered from dinner, we at the Tiramisu Becca and I had made earlier in the day.  Tom got a birthday phone call from his brother and his bride. We enjoyed catching up with them. All in all it was a delightful evening.

Today will bring grocery shopping and preparation for Laura's big party tomorrow.  I may need school to start so that I can start back to work in order to rest.

BIrthday's squared

Every year I am amazed that I was able to give birth to Laura on Tom's birthday.  After 36 hours of labor, I definitely did not plan her as a gift on his special day, but a gift she was and is. 

Today, Laura celebrates her 16th birthday.  In a couple of weeks, she will start driving the car on her own.  She is now able to go on a date and she is about to start her junior year of high school.  Every mother says, "where has the time gone?", but I truly wonder where it went.  Lately, Laura and I have had quite a few disagreements.  Most of the disagreeing is due to the fact that we think so much alike.  She is so independent and I know this will serve her well.  She wants to prove to herself that she can do things on her own and I want so much for her to need me just a little longer.  The two thoughts don't always work together.  No matter, I love my daughter and I am so proud of the woman she has become.  I don't want to let her go and yet, I know I must.  My thoughts turn to the little birds nest on our porch.  I KNOW how sad and proud that momma bird is as those little ones fly the nest. I also know that she gives them a chance to fly, under her watch, before she leaves them on their own.  That is how I feel now.  Laura needs to fly, but you can bet I am in the background cheering her on and making sure she doesn't fly too far, just yet.

Here is a birthday shout out to my beloved too.  Tom is my rock and the very foundation on which I live.  God knew exactly who I needed to get me through this life, when he gave me Tom Russell.  As we head into this new time in our lives, when our children are both teenagers, thank goodness we have each other to lean on.

The last week of summer vacation.

Well, this is it.  My last week of vacation.  I am sad and a little excited in one.  I just signed up for a class next Tuesday.  I start school on Friday, August 10. 

This will be a crazy week as Tom and Laura will both have birthdays on Wednesday.  My Laura will turn 16 years old.  Wow, where in the world did the time go.  I am amazed at what a wonderful young woman she has become.  We have butted heads ALOT the last year, but I am faithful and I love her so much.  I think I will become smart again, to her, when she turns 20 or so.  She is about to embark on a very challenging academic year.  Our thoughts have now focused on college and her GPA.  Please pray for us.  There may be lots more butting of heads during the next couple of years.

I am so proud of Becca.  Yesterday, she made her first sewing project.  She made a pillowcase.  It is really cute and she wants to make Laura one for her birthday.  She also made a meal, with my help, for the first time.  I wonder if the lasagna tasted so good because it was Becca's first.

Have a great day everyone!!!

Saying goodbye to Joplin

On Saturday morning, we all got up early, made our peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, one more time and headed for home.  It was still so very hot and we were so very tired.  It was a good tired.  It was the kind of tired that comes from working hard.  We knew we had done God's work.  I can't explain how good that feels.

The twelve hours home were long. There was a lot of time to reflect on the past week.  I thought about how I loved helping the people of Joplin.  I wondered if I am being called to the mission field some day. We shall see.

The kids in the van seemed somehow more mature than they did when we left. We were all quiet with our thoughts on the way home.  We were sad that the adventure was over.  We were happy to see our families waiting for us.  We gathered in a circle and held hands one last time.  We prayed over the people of Joplin and thanked God that we were home, safe. We will be forever changed for the better.

Well, we were almost done.  The leaders had some pranking to do.  We had saran wrapped all of the luggage. Something had to be done to get everyone back for the pranking we received.  Ha ha.

Today Tom and I went and got Becca from camp.  Her foot is still slightly swollen and she still needs to use her crutches from time to time.  She had a great time at camp, as always.  I am so glad to have my "bug" back home.  Laura will come home tomorrow from a weekend of LARPing.  My family will be complete once more.

Oh yeah, I almost forgot. I have lost 15 pounds!!! Yeah me!!!

TGIF in Joplin

The week in Joplin flew by and was sooo long, all at the same time.  By Friday, I was physically very tired.  It was still hot and still hard work.  We got up on Friday, ready for our last day of hard work.

We were again divided into groups.  One group helped a woman clean stored items from her home.  One group finished the landscaping at the house where we built the retaining wall.  My group, went to a home where we helped clear debris and haul dirt for landscaping. 

The home where I was assigned, was right by a railroad track.  It brought back memories of my childhood as we had a railroad track in our backyard.  Even now, when I am about to go to sleep, I hear the train passing by in the distance, near the Academy, and a flood of memories always come.  For me, there is something soothing about that lonesome sound of a train whistle.

Becca and I worked together as we cleared debris.  I was impressed at how hard Becca worked.  She got teased that she worked "like a boy". She went with a group to take the debris to the dump.  After clearing the debris from the bed of the truck, she jumped down and landed on a rake.  She sprained her left ankle, though we didn't find that out until we got home on Sunday.  She was a trooper and kept going. 

We finished working and headed back to the church. We then had to clean to get ready to go home.  I got kitchen duty.  That was a huge chore as 26 teenagers had made peanut butter and jelly sandwiches every day.  There was sticky stuff EVERYWHERE.  We finished cleaning and walked to a local restaurant for dinner.  This didn't help Becca's ankle, but she didn't complain. 

We got to the restaurant and it turned out to be a burger joint in a convenience store.  We basically bombarded them. My burger was forgotten and by the time I received it, I had a kiddo vomiting.  We did not have enough water during the day.  When the student got to the restaurant, he chugged 3 glasses of iced tea.  This was too much for his parched, over heated stomach.  I really didn't want my burger after that.

We were in the restaurant when a policeman came in.  He was patrolling the neighborhood and noticed that the window in the boys house was broken.  It had been broken since we arrived, but he thought perhaps someone had broken into the house.  It was funny as it was something right out of "Mayberry".  The neighbors knew someone, who knew someone, who called someone, who talked to the policeman.  We couldn't figure out how he knew we were at the restaurant. The policeman basically knew that there was no other place in town to go.

I took the kiddo, who was sick, to the air conditioned girl's house.  He curled up and slept for hours.  I think his body was just done.  I think all of our bodies were just done.  The rest of the group went up to the church for the final debriefing, but I stayed behind with my patient.  The pastor's wife, Dana, came to see me and check on my patient as she was an R.N.. The sick kiddo was fine, but I had the best conversation with Dana.

Dana and I talked about Carthage and she told me how there were many corporate headquarters located under the city.  After the Civil War, only two buildings were left. Quartz and rock were mined to make the buildings downtown.  That left a hole in the earth, so an underground corporate center was made.  There is everything down there, but it is very secure and you have to be "invited" to tour it.

Dana and I talked about our fire and their tornado.  We talked about how God is good through all. We talked about what it is like for her to live in such a small town.  She told me how she and her husband made the decision to move to a close knit, small town because they wanted to have the right values for their family.  She told me how she felt like she needed to know everyone in their church as everyone knew her.

The kids got back from the church, bags were packed and we all went to bed. We needed rest to get ready for the long trip home.

Joplin Thursday

Thursday was the hardest day, for me, by far.  Our small painting group was divided into one group that would finish the painting, now that the gentleman in the basement was gone, and one group would go with that same homeowner to her storage unit to clean up "tornado vomit" on her belongings.  I would lead the "vomit" group.  This meant I would take a college leader and 8 students or so to the owners storage unit across town. 

The homeowner came with us to the unit.  We were to take all of her belongings out of the unit and wipe it down. There were tiny bits of debris (tornado vomit) over most of her things. I learned so much about the affects of the storm.  She had to throw away all plastic containers as there was fear that asbestos was spread as homes were destroyed.  There was also a concern that nasty bacteria was spread as the hospital was destroyed.  She had to throw away cooking items that could not be properly cleaned. 

I was reminded of how precious little things are.  We opened a box and the homeowner cried as she discovered pictures of a loved one that had recently passed away.  We prayed over her and continued working.  I learned that the homeowner was an artist.  We laughed and she was embarrassed as we found a nude painting that she had done.  She told us the story behind almost every object.  Every object was a little piece of her life "before the storm". I talked with her throughout the day and I was impressed with how resilient we humans can be.

Not only was it an emotionally grueling day, it was also physically grueling.  It was over 105 degrees outside.  We were working on a black asphalt surface with no shade.  It literally felt like we were in an oven. Though we were beyond dirty an sweaty, we met the rest of our group at a local Baptist church where Samaritan's Purse fed us dinner.

The dinner at Samaritan's purse was amazing.  Not only were we hungry, but we had not eaten enough protein through the week.  This has to be fixed the next time we take a trip like this.  I dare say, that chicken was the best I had ever had.  It was wonderful to go eat somewhere and not have to cook for 34.

After dinner, we debriefed with the other two groups at the Samaritan's Purse dinner.  They were from Utah and another group from Colorado. I will never forget this little meeting.  It was there we were told about the "Butterfly People".  Around Joplin there are murals painted on some of the walls downtown.  Many of them contain butterflies.  This was asked about and the reply was amazing.  MANY of the children claimed to see "butterfly people" that protected them during the storm.  So many children saw them. I fully believe these "butterfly people" were angels.  You can read hundreds of stories about this if you put in "Joplin, tornado, butterfly people" on your browser. The story that impacted me the most was about a four year old little boy that was found in a chest freezer, alive, three days after the storm, miles away from where the storm hit.  When he was asked how he got in there he replied, "the man with wings put me in there". 

I missed our own debriefing on this night as I had a student who had had an allergic reaction to a bug bite.  I gave her Benadryl and it basically knocked her out.  I think she needed the rest, but I missed going to the church as I didn't want to leave her alone, in the house.  I stayed behind and did my own reflection. I thought about how Granny would not last much longer.  I thought about how surprising it was that she lasted this long. I thought about how proud she would be to know what God was doing in my life that week.

It turned out that the debriefing I missed was amazing.  One of our students accepted Christ and another shared his personal testimony. It was very moving and I think, one of the main reasons we came to Joplin.

Wednesday in Joplin

We girls got up later than we had planned.  The exact time we were to be up at the church for breakfast was unclear.  We were late, so we got locked out.  One of our girls started crying.  It was irritating, but they let us in and we continued on with breakfast and making lunches (peanut butter and jelly every day, even Saturday when we were on the road). 

We loaded the vans and our first stop was back at the house where we were finishing painting the garage.  When we got there, we were told we could not work there that day, as the fellow who lived in the basement was not welcome. Due to a concern for safety, we all went to the house where the retaining wall was being put in and landscaping done.  I met the folks who's daughter was hurt in their car, in the tornado.  They were so grateful to have us there.  We were praying about the father as he was having a hard time accepting so much work being done.  He felt that it was his responsibility. He eventually came out and talked with us.  Part of the learning process for these precious folks is that they have had to learn to accept help. I know that is a really tough one for me.

We stopped working around 1pm. That was about all the heat we could tolerate.  We went back to our sleeping quarters, grabbed our swim suites and found a local pool.  The water was freezing, but it felt so good in the heat.  We laughed and relaxed.  The pool had three diving boards. We cheered everyone on as they tried different stunts off the boards.

A group of us went back to the church, ahead of the others, and got dinner started.  We also made a cake for Manny and Kim as it was their second anniversary.  After dinner, we went upstairs and joined the First Christian Church youth group for their Wednesday night service.  It was fun to be with members of the church that was so graciously hosting us.

After the service, we went back to our houses for much needed rest.

Tuesday in Joplin

Tuesday morning was a bit tougher. The kids were tired and so were we.  It was complicated by the fact that the girls pranked the boys.  They took over 100 cups, filled with water, all over the porch of the boys house.  They then saran wrapped their whole front yard, using folding chairs and whatever else they could wrap.  They toilet papered the saran wrap.  They found out later that they had used all of our toilet paper in the girls house and had to do without. This girls got up at 2am to complete all of these shenanigans. It was all in good fun and everyone had a good laugh. I wish I had taken a picture to share.

After breakfast, we divided up. Some of us went back to the first house to paint and the rest of us went to the second house to work on the retaining wall and landscaping.  I was on the painting team. When we arrived at the house, we closed the garage door in hopes of helping to control the heat.  We searched for a fan that we could place in the basement doorway to bring up some cooler air.  When we went to the basement to look for the fan, we saw that someone was staying in the storm room.  The volunteer that was overseeing the construction of the house, Wilson, didn't believe us when we told him someone was down there.  There was no running water in the home and no lighting. Wilson went down to the basement and talked to the young man sleeping there.  The man in the basement was the son of the homeowners.  He told us about how he was waiting for his family to arrive home from a family trip.  He told us about working in the mines in Colorado.  It was great to talk to someone who knew the family we were helping.  The rest of the work day was spent painting the garage, including the ceiling.  Sheila and I had to constantly push and encourage the girls to work.  The heat was grueling and the work was hard, but we found that we were anxious to get the job done.  We were sad when we had to pack up, having just a couple more hours of work to do.

When we went back to our sleeping quarters, a group meeting was called.  We met out on the lawn in front of the houses.  We had gathered our things to take to the YMCA for showers. We were all looking forward to cleaning up.  When the meeting was called, the boys came out with shaving cream.  They creamed us well. They then dumped flour over us. The boys had retaliated. Thank goodness they did it on the way to the Y so that we could clean up.

After much needed showers, we went back to the church for dinner and devotions. We debriefed about the day. We talked about how tired, but blessed we all were. It was an earlier to bed night so that we could rest and get ready for another day of work.

On the Road Again

This morning, I am off to take Becca to camp.  This will be her third year at the small, beautiful camp in the mountains.  She is so excited and she said she can't wait to get into God's word. I love, love, love that kid.While in Joplin, she jumped down from the bed of a truck and landed on a rake.  Her ankle has been hurting her ever since.  I took her to Urgi Care yesterday.  They did an xray and, thank goodness, it is just a bad sprain.  The bad news is, she will do camp with crutches and a brace on her foot. It will be a long, long drive.  Another day of 6-8 hours on the road, but it's worth it.

I wanted to touch on Monday of last week, in Joplin.  We got up early and headed over to our job site.  Simply getting up and out is no simple task when you are a group of 35.  Everyone was fresh and excited. That became a little different as the week progressed, but on Monday we were all ready to "get er done". 

Once at the site, our leader discovered that the person who was arranging our work,  thought we were coming this week and not last week.  This presented a problem.  There was a scramble to find work. The house where we met had some simple jobs to do.  What was thought to take three or four hours only took us about and hour. We cleaned out the garage and picked up trash around the house.  We then took a tour of Joplin.  We saw how the high school was completely demolished.  We got our first taste of the devastation of this tornado.  We drove around the neighborhoods where there was a common spray painted message on the homes.  After the storm, the home owners spray painted the number of people inside and if they were alive. This was done so that emergency responders would know who to help first. We saw a grocery store that was completely leveled and we learned about the man inside who had stepped outside and had to be pulled back inside as the storm hit. 

We had lunch in a park and then went back to the site.  By this time, work had been arranged.  A group of girls, myself and the other female leader were assigned to stay at the house where we sanded dry wall and painted the inside of a garage.  The rest of our group went to another house where they did landscaping and began work on a retaining wall.  I can only speak for the group I was in, but I know the group that worked on the landscaping and wall were changed that day. 

As they worked a 14 year old girl, with a huge scar on her leg, passed out water and Popsicles. The heat was our biggest enemy.  It was never below 100 degrees while we worked and we never had rain.
The girl with the water shared her story. She and her family were in their car when the tornado came. They were sucked up in the beast. They were picked up and put down a half a mile away.  The windows of their car were blown out, but when they were set down, everyone was alive and unharmed except the girl. A piece of metal had lodged itself into her leg and it cut her leg to the bone. She is so very lucky her leg was not amputated.  All communication was down, so her parents could not call 911. They drove to the hospital only to discover that the hospital had been damaged and was not available.  They drove to another hospital to discover that it was full and not able to take any more patients.  They drove to a third hospital where she was seen, sent to ICU and spent the next month recovering. She is not bitter or hung up on this tragedy. Instead, she gave water and shared her story to our students.  She changed their lives through hers. She later told us that she had something to give us. When she heard about the fire in our city, she began collecting items for the fire fighters.  We left with several banana boxes filled with items for those who are fighting our fires. Yes, the work was very hard on this site, but God was alive and well in the lives of our students on this day.

As to my site, Sheila and I were able to motivate young women to work.  Really work. I learned how to sand sheet rock and I learned so much about painting. I connected with these girls and I think they connected with me. We were so tired from a job well done.

Our luxurious bathroom.

There used to be a house here.

Worn out kids. This was a lunch break.

My magnificent painting team.

A house we worked on.

Our team getting ready for work on the first day.

First day, first job.

We went back to the church where we prepared dinner. A group was taken about ten miles away to the local YMCA, for showers. When we gathered together for dinner, our students ate like they had never eaten before.  They had worked up an appetite like crazy.  We ate and then reflected on our day. We went to bed and prepared for yet another day of working and being blessed like crazy.

Joplin

This past week has been so full and God has moved me so deeply, I am not sure how to get my thoughts around it all.  I just know that I have been changed for the good.  When I have a large task, I always chunk it into smaller pieces.  I am thinking that is what I will do with this.

As you know, the week before we left, my "Granny" was not expected to make it until I got back home.  She did.  She is back in the nursing home under hospice care.  I am thinking that any day now, I will get a call to let us know that she has passed.  I will be going home to attend her funeral. I thought of her often and my thoughts naturally are of how blessed we have been to have her with us for 97 years.  I also think it is time for her to go home and be with the rest of her family.

I slept very little on Saturday night.  We just weren't ready to go and we had to finish packing.  Once the packing was done, I couldn't sleep and I wasn't feeling well.  We met at the church, prayed and we were on the road by 6:30.  Even though I was tired, we were excited to be going.  My prayer in this adventure was that God would reveal himself to me. I wanted to come back a better person, wife and mother. 

After a couple of rest stops in Kansas, we finally made it to Carthage, Missouri around 10:00 at night.  We were not allowed showers, but were told to go to bed and be ready for breakfast at 7:00 am the next morning.  We were hosted by the First Christian Church in Carthage.  We used their industrial kitchen and hall as an eating and gathering area.  This area was about a block away from where we stayed and had the only fully functioning toilets. The church owned houses where we were allowed to stay.  We girls had an air conditioned house that was built in the early 1900s.  They boys stayed next door in a not so air conditioned, not so big house.  The church had one showers for the girls and three showers in the men's room.  We all showered here once, but mostly we went about 10 miles away, to the YMCA, for showers. That first night, we were all so very tired from the drive.  We prayed over our trip and for each other. We poured ourselves into bed and prepared ourselves for the hardest work many of us have ever done.