Surrendered

Personal Branding

2009-08-12T00:45:00.000-07:00

She Laughed

2009-04-20T23:36:00.000-07:00

April 17, 2009

She laughed a lot tonight, repeatedly quoted the same things she has for years and constantly reminded me how much she loved me. She teased the boys and they laughed along, she was having a great time. This woman has had such an impact in my life, I don’t even know if I could begin to tell the story. She is stubborn, sassy, spirited, hard working, God fearing and most of all full of love for everyone around her.

Effie Marie was born May 10, 1926 as the middle child. She had 2 older brothers and 3 younger sisters. Don’t even think about calling her Effie, she didn’t like that name. She was to be called Marie. She only loved one man in her life and she lost him in a tragic car accident after 37 years of marriage. She gave birth to 5 sons, the last pregnancy resulting in twin boys. We teased her that God didn’t give her a girl because the name she picked out was not acceptable. She always wanted a daughter named Spring Dawn. She worked for years at a Orange packing house and retired to care for my boys after her husband died. She loved taking care of others, it was just so natural. She was a Sunday School teacher, a Sunday School Bus attendant, a Deacon’s wife, a singer, cook, photographer, seamstress and prayer warrior. This woman is my Mother-in-law.

The last few years have not been easy on her. She has senile dementia and her memory comes and goes. She broke her hip, then her back. She has become a frail picture of the woman we know. When strangers see her, they don’t know who she was, or how she affected lives of many. When I spend time with her, there are times I get a glimpse of the woman I know. Tonight was one of those nights and I was thankful for this woman I know.

A Good Day

2008-12-14T18:06:00.000-08:00

What a great day! Today both my boys, living out of the house, came home for Christmas. I was so happy to see them, I almost couldn't control myself. Here we are at the airport waiting for Jeremy's luggage.

It Fit!!

2008-09-21T19:47:00.000-07:00

I stepped on the scale today, and I have lost 26.5 pounds. And I am happy to say, that my goal dress fit. I wore it to church and I felt mighty fine. I was so excited, it was such a great feeling. This has been such a great diet for me and I feel so good about it. Sunday's are usually my day that I don't go crazy with counting calories, but after seeing the scale today and wearing that dress I wasn't about to blow it. YEAH me!!

No Girdle, Thank You.

2008-08-27T18:26:00.000-07:00

I was going through my closet this morning looking for something to wear to work. I have to say that it actually is a good activity now, as I have suddenly found that I have new clothes again. Yup, I am officially down 18.5 pounds and dropped a size in clothes. It is a good thing, I kept my clothes when they got too tight or small because now they are new to me again. I wore a pair of slacks today that I haven't been able to wear for about a year. They are the basic black, and the last time I wore them I had to wear a girdle so the belly could fit. Not today. Today I wore them and without the girdle. It felt so good. This has been the easiest diet I have ever done, and I am glad I tried it. I can't wait now to see what I can wear next week. YEAH!!!

Dinner With My Son

2008-07-31T21:42:00.000-07:00

Tonight Dan and I talked Charlie into going out to eat with us. This is not always easy, especially when he has been asleep. But it was just the three of us and we don't get to be with just him very often. In May we had Jeremiah alone, a couple of weeks ago we did this with Joey and the week after it was with Tim. I cherish these times because I get to really hear their hearts. And tonight I was not disappointed having dinner with Charlie. We talked about everything from girlfriends to life choices. I can't help but think what a wonderful young man he has become and how blessed I am to be his mother. He really has the most compassionate heart. As I think of each of my boys, I am just in awe. How could these great men belong to me? I love their wit, their charm, their character....... I could go on and on.

The time is coming that Charlie will be heading off to Texas. He is leaving in 3 weeks. The closer it gets, the more I want to hold on. I know it will not be easy to send him off, but I also know that God has a plan for Charlie. His plan is bigger than anything I can even dream of because His ways are greater than mine and His thoughts greater than mine. So, I really can't even imagine what He has planned because I know mine would be more than wonderful.

One Last Time

2008-07-26T09:11:00.000-07:00

A couple of months ago my doctor told me I need to lose 100 pounds quickly or I will be putting my health at risk. Those are not words you want to hear at age 43. Because of my parents health issues, he said I am predisposed to the same issues if I don't do something now. Well, I've tried almost every diet I know of, so I am trying one last thing before the recommended surgery.

Yesterday, I walked into the Diet Clinic at Premier Walk In Clinic and received a B-12 shot and 30 day supply of Phentermine. I will have to go every two weeks for the shot and only eat between 600 and 800 calories a day with nothing after 7:00 p.m. I should lose between 2 to 4 pounds a week. I really want this to work and I am going to give it all I have.

So far today, I have taken in 190 calories and am feeling pretty energetic. Not a hunger pain to be felt. Although, I do wish I had some raw veggies to gnaw on. Oh well, sounds like a trip to the grocery store is in my plans today.

Just A Few Thoughts

2008-07-15T21:55:00.000-07:00

Here are a few thoughts I had today.

What does it feel like to get a full night sleep and wake up rested?
Why can't politicians stick to their agenda's instead of putting their competitor down?
I really love Peanut Butter Cup ice cream, why couldn't it be calorie free?
After eating a few, I think I have developed a taste for raw almonds.
I miss my oldest son, Jeremiah, and love when he calls.
I only have another month with my 3rd son, Charlie, before he leaves to Texas for 9 months and I will miss him desperately.
I have the best parents in the world. No, I'm not biased it is just a fact.
God is so good to me and my family, I love that He cares for us.
I believe the best salad in town is at Red Robin and it is the Crispy Chicken with Honey Mustard dressing.
I enjoy dining out with my boys one at a time. It is just a great time to hear their hearts. Thanks Tim for tonight and thanks Joey for last Thursday night.

Independence Day!

2008-07-05T22:12:00.000-07:00

We had a great day on July 4th. Of course, the traditional BBQ burgers and hot dogs along with homemade peppermint ice cream and fireworks made the day perfect. This year the Crofts did not join us, they ended up at the beach instead. Not sure why they would choose the beach over our 100 degree weather, but anyway, (smile) we missed them. However, we were joined by none other than the Jack Attack herself. She is here for the summer entertaining us as usual. We love our Jackie. Angela and Lauren were all girl and had a blast swimming and watching the fireworks. We ended the night with good old patriotic songs such as I'm Proud To Be An American, America, and The Star Spangled Banner. The harmony was, well, something to be heard for sure. Don't you wish you were here?

Bertha Came Home

2008-06-24T21:54:00.000-07:00

My boys dread when Bertha comes home. She isn't a very nice or patient person, and she came today. She walked in the door after working all day, found two boys sleeping in a messy house, and stayed true to form. Can I just say that they had one hour to clean the mess before the house would be invaded by 10 to 12 teenagers? Dishes in the sink, on the table and the bar. Shoes everywhere, Subway wrappers and other miscellaneous items waiting to be put away. Bertha woke the boys, spewed her venom and walked to the bedroom. There she took a breath and tried to compose herself, but Bertha just wasn't going settle down. She went back to the kitchen started banging dishes around to get her point across and the poor boys began to get busy. You see, they know not to even comment when Bertha is here because it would not be received well. The mess was cleaned in no time and Berth went to take a nap.

If you haven't figured it out, Bertha is my alter ego that rears her ugly head every once in a while. I do my best to keep her at bay, but when I am tired and feel a bit overwhelmed she will just come out. She was named several years ago when the boys were young. When I had bad days, I let them know that I was Bertha and not their mom. They began to understand, that when Bertha visited it really was a good time to remain calm and do what she said otherwise it would not be pretty. It become a great opportunity for us to discuss moods and self control. When they called me Bertha, I knew that they were feeling like I was out of control and in many ways helped me to find control. Most of the time we laugh about Bertha and make jokes that she was here, but only days like today remind them of the "true" Bertha wrath.

I am sorry boys, and Jacklyn since you had to be here to witness this, be assured after the nap Bertha went home.

Good Times at Work

2008-06-22T17:35:00.000-07:00

I don't share much of my work online, however I did want to share a couple of photos this week. I am a manager in a call center, and for a morale builder we did a potluck competition at work. We had six different teams and each team was given a theme that they must build around. Everything, the food, the decorations and atmosphere must breathe this theme. Each team must also have a team flag. My team drew the Mexican fiesta theme. So we went to work right away planning it. It was a great team building project for those of you looking for that. Can I just say, we were the best. I've asked for a recount, because we took 2nd place and I don't think we should have. Anyway enjoy the pictures. You will note, yours truly is on the flag and also had a shrine in her name. My team loves me.

Here are a couple of pictures from two other teams. The Italian experience beat us. I really don't know how, but I'm trying not to be bitter about it.

Graduation Photos

2008-06-05T22:19:00.000-07:00

Of course I have to post some pictures of the graduation. It was a wonderful night. Many family members showed up to support him and he had a great time. Oh, he also had his picture in the paper here.

Congrats Charles (Chase, Charlie) Nelson Anderson

2008-06-04T08:00:00.000-07:00

Today, my 3rd son graduates from High School. I can not believe how quickly this has gone by. It seems just like yesterday that I was literally chasing him everywhere he went, thus his nickname was "Chase". He came into this world fast, seriously. His labor and delivery was so quick that his body temperature was very low and we had to lay under a heat lamp for several hours with him on my chest. When I looked into those beautiful big blue eyes, my heart was captured. He was mine. As a toddler and child, he was not the easiest to raise. He was persistent, active, funny, very active, talkative, very very active, compassionate and did I say active? Some of my memories go back to the time that he was afraid of killer frogs in his bedroom. Nightly we had to go in his room and hunt for the killer frogs before he would go to bed. Others include him scolding his friend down the street for stepping on some flowers in a neighbors yard, and for breaking one of the 10 commandments. I have watched him grow into a wonderful young man ready to meet the world. His compassion and love of others is admirable. His ability to make others feel good when they had the worst day are just a few of the qualities that he holds.

Charlie - You have blessed my life greatly. I am glad that God made you a part of our family and I am so proud of your accomplishments. I know God has great things in store for you and I can't wait to see what you do with it. You are an amazing young man and I love you from here to the moon and back. Congrats on your big day today. Go and find your path.

Surprise, Surprise, Surprise!

2008-06-02T18:03:00.000-07:00

Boy, were we surprised! Last Friday night, May 30th our boys threw a surprise anniversary party for Dan and I. We were suppose to be going out with friends (Dan and Julie) for dinner and ended up at Dave and Tina's (brother and sis-in-laws) on the pretense that they were going with us at the last minute. We drove up and went into the house because David supposedly just got home from work and needed a few minutes to freshen up. We walked into the home and there were over 50 people (family and friends) in Dave & Tina's house yelling, "Surprise". I was so overwhelmed, I didn't even know how to react. There were so many people there I didn't know where to start. I wanted to walk back out and take a minute to breathe. It really took my breath away. They had our wedding video turned into a DVD, it was a perfect gift. They also went through my closet and found all kinds of pictures for a picture slideshow. The evening also included the "Newlywed Game", of which we competed against my sister and her husband and Dan's cousin and her husband. We lost, but had a lot of fun. Overall, it was a fabulous night and I once again was reminded at how blessed I am.

25 Years to Life

2008-05-28T20:12:00.000-07:00

It is hard for me to believe, but my husband and I celebrated our 25th Wedding Anniversary yesterday. It should have been a joyous day, but I was laid up in my bed suffering with Sciatica. Yes it is a great to be married for 25 years, but that also means that I have aged 25 years and my poor back is feeling it. Many have asked what we are going to do to celebrate this milestone, but Dan and I are just enjoying having our oldest son home right now. We may do something later in the year, but for now we are content in just loving each other and exchanging love letters. The letter he wrote me was very special and made me just love him that much more. I really am blessed to have him as my lifetime partner. He says, he has been sentenced, 25 years to life. Believe me this is one sentence I will serve gladly with him.

Random Thoughts

2008-05-16T09:36:00.000-07:00

Today I have a day off from work to be with my son and while he is still sleeping I thought I could share some random thoughts.

God's goodness is better than anything I could imagine.
I have the most wonderful husband in the world and he loves me.
My boys are a huge blessing to me. I don't think they can even begin to understand how proud I am of them.
My parents are absolutely the best. If I could choose my parents, I would choose them.
My friends are the best encouragers. They build me up and make me laugh a lot.
My job is really great. My boss and my employees are the best all around.
My church is really on fire for God and believes in servanthood.
I like my new haircut, I have a wonderful hairdresser.
My dog is old, but I love her.
I am blessed.

All these things I am thankful for. Leave me a comment, and let me know what you are thankful for.

There Is No Place Like Home

2008-05-13T16:41:00.000-07:00

Jeremiah is Home! My mother and I went to pick him up at the airport around 10:30. We didn't wait long before he was walking toward me. When I saw him, I thought there is no better place for that boy than home. He was all smiles as he saw me and ready to get home. When we got here, he waked room to room making sure nothing changed and our beloved dog Sassie was happy to see him. We (me, Tim, Jeremiah and my mom) had lunch at Colima's and then back home for a movie and nap. Charlie and Joey arrived home from school to greet him and all the boys were together again. It did this mom's heart good.

Prom Night

2008-05-03T20:20:00.000-07:00

Tonight was prom night. I must say that my son, Charlie, looked mighty fine. His girlfriend Sam was also very pretty. While she was at the beauty salon getting her hair done, Charlie cleaned his truck and then asked me to do his hair. I guess it was Sam's suggestion. I believe she wanted it to actually look combed for their pictures. Anyway, I think they looked cute. What do you think?

Proud Mom and American

2008-04-26T22:50:00.000-07:00

I wanted to share another video that really did touch me as a mom and American. This video is the prayer that was said over the men and women that returned from Afghanistan. Good to know that our military still recognizes the power in prayer.

Also, I threw in a couple of pictures of my soldier. I am glad to see him back in one piece.

He's Home!!!

2008-04-24T20:57:00.000-07:00

It’s official, my son is back in the states. We were able to see his plane land and what a great moment that was. After turning in their weapons they were bused to the Soldiers Field House where family and friends were waiting. As they marched in, the room went crazy cheering for their loved ones. It was such a great moment. They were prayed over and then released to reunite with their family. Jeremiah was so glad to see us and we him. I just wanted to hold on forever, but I had to share him with his dad and grandparents. I have pretty much watched him all day. I can’t take my eyes off him. He really looks good. We made a quick stop at the PX on base so he could buy himself some “civies” (street clothes) his others are in storage. Then whisked him off to eat some lunch. He is staying with us tonight, but we will have to return him by 11:00 tomorrow morning. We will see him for only a short while, but he keeps reassuring me that he will be home for a month in 3 weeks. What a huge relief it is, just knowing he is here. His eyes are having a hard time staying open now, but he doesn’t want to sleep since it has been so long since he has had time off. Bless his heart.

Here is a video of all the soldiers leaving the plane at Mc Cord Air force base. Jeremiah is toward the back of the pack and gives a wave as he passes the camera. See if you can spot him.

A Day in Seattle

2008-04-23T20:21:00.000-07:00

Dan and I spent the day in Seattle with my Dad and Mom. We had a great time. After yesterday's disappointment, it was a nice day with my parents. We walked to Pikes Place and shopped for a couple of hours. We saw the workers tie up a customer and throw fish over her head. It was fun to watch. Pikes Fish Market is the place where that the "Fish" books were written about. Dan and Dad went up the Space Needle while Mom and I had coffee at Starbucks of course. Then we rode the Ducks. The Ducks were a truck that turned into a boat. We toured Seattle on land and sea. Our driver was a pirate that had a parade of different hats and songs. We ended the day taking a tour of not sure where (we got lost) and a stop at Cold Stone Creamery. Dan is now napping and I have checked in at work for a quick glance at how things are going. Overall, it has been a great day, and I am blessed.

NEWSFLASH: Jeremiah just called me. He is in New Jersey and he will be here tomorrow morning. I can't wait. He sounds good and is ready to be home.

Here are a few pictures of our day today.

Homecoming that didn't happen

2008-04-22T22:16:00.000-07:00

He was so close, but he isn't home yet. Monday, April 21st my Dad, my Mom, my Husband and I left Visalia for Fort Lewis Washington to greet our son when he arrived on Tuesday, April 22nd. He was due in at 10:55 a.m.. We found that his flight was delayed until 2:55, so off to the hotel we headed for a little shut eye. We had driven straight through all night(15 hour drive) to get there on time and we were all exhausted. Back to the base we headed at 2:oo p.m. , after a quick stop for gas, we arrived to await the arrival of our son and others from the 66th MP company. After several delays and announcements the plane finally arrived. We were able to watch through a televised feed the plane touchdown and the unboarding of the troops. We looked at each soldier, there were over 100 on this flight, yet we couldn't find the face of our beloved son. Well, long story short we found out after 5 1/2 hours of waiting his arrival, he was bumped from this flight and now isn't due in until Thursday, April 24th. I fought back the tears as we were told we had to wait two more days. We were only able to stay a couple of days as it was, now I will only be able to spend a couple of hours with him before I have to leave to go home. This is one upset momma. Should I mention that I also have one upset Grandpa? That must be where I get the temper. Hmmm.

Idolized

2008-04-03T21:07:00.000-07:00

I could not help but share this short video of Tim. He was marching with joy because a certain American Idol contestant was voted off last week. I won't mention who it was, but his reaction was priceless. We live a sad, sad life.

Homecoming!

2008-04-03T14:21:00.000-07:00

I am on the countdown until my son returns to the states. 20 days. I am so excited I am beside myself. He has been gone for too long. He left for Afghanistan January 2007. He was able to come home in July for a couple of weeks, but it wasn't long enough. I can't wait to smell him. I know I am weird, but there is nothing like the smell of your child. Ask God. Dan and I are thinking of driving up to Washington to greet him if we can scramble the money together. Pray that we can. Then, he will be home on May 13th for a whole month. I will be so happy to have all my boys together again.

Memories

2008-03-22T20:24:00.000-07:00

Today I stood brushing my mother-in-laws hair. My mind began to drift back to the days when she was young and vibrant. She was always a very busy woman, she did not believe in being idle. Her hands were busy from the time she woke until the time she went to bed. How humbled I was today brushing her hair. Her hands no longer able to do simple tasks, her mind no longer able to remember, yet her spirit is the same. She can recall most of the bible versus she put to memory and every hymn she sang since childhood, yet many times she forgets my name. I love this woman and am thankful for the wonderful memories I do have of her.