Fresh Start Challenge Day 28: Hit the Dirt.

Much like my best friend +Hunter  in her blog HERE, I am seriously OCD when it comes to being prepared and being clean. People laugh at us because we even organize our cleaning supplies and organizing supplies. Well we are just Type A people on that subject.

I take being prepared for severe weather very seriously. I am strong supporter of James Spann and his weather weeks during February and March. They will tell you just about anything about how to be prepared for weather.

In my post "Ready or Not" I supply the link for my Emergency Prepareness Board on Pinterest. Trust me I utilize these ideas now. Chris and I both are very serious on this matter. We follow Red Cross and FEMA instructions to the T. We have water and food on supply for everyone. We take the precautions for the pets.

When a warning goes off we usually have been prepared well in advance. We usually start watching the storms once they cross state lines.

Fresh Start Challenge Day 3: Give

I have talked about the charities I support through the history of my blog. I like to look at what the awareness is for each month and give to those programs that way no one is left out.

Movember

Always Aware

November Awarness

RAINN

Ready or Not

There are some things that life just throws at you that you may not be prepared for in emergencies. Sometimes, though, there are ways to be prepared. It will take a little more on your part. Being responsible is the key to surviving life's curve balls. Severe weather is no exception.

This coming weekend you can buy severe weather preparation items like weather radios and cell phone chargers tax free in Alabama. That's a start. If you don't live in Alabama suggest to your representatives for your state that you should be able to have a weekend like this as well too.

Here in Alabama people here the words "Severe weather" and our minds go to tornadoes because that's the majority of what we know. Severe weather can come in many forms. Floods, hurricanes, heat, earthquake, and snow in addition to tornadoes are just some of the possibilities.

What Dippin Dots in Tuscaloosa looked like
after the storm (This was two days afterwards)

Each one of those are subjected to their own preparedness rituals. Since this week is the awareness week, find out about which ones affect the area where you live. Make a plan, review with your family, and then the week of March 3-9 of this year is where you put your emergency plan into action. Stock up on extra necessities for during an emergency.

I have been searching since April 27th on ways to stay prepared. I started with the government sites like, NOAA, FEMA, and Red Cross. From there I just started searching for weather preparedness. Why is it so important to have a plan? Well it could mean the difference between having everything you love after the storm comes through or not even being alive yourself after the storm comes through.

I encourage everyone to do this.You have other things going on in your life that you feel are more important but just taking 30 minutes to educate yourself and make a plan can make all the difference even after the other events come through. Weather and nature happen no matter what social plans or plans that we have made for ourselves.

Belk at the University Mall
after the April  27th storms

There are phone apps even to help you prepare for all kinds of emergencies. A weather radio is perfect as well (make sure to have batteries in it and back up batteries!) Making small kits is great too.

I personally have a lot of preparedness items. I was a student at UA and witnessed first hand, devastation of April 27th in Tuscaloosa. For only a week and half before I was working at BAM when the severe struck Tuscaloosa the first time with barely any damage. The next time the storms came through was a different story. Don't ignore the weather people or think "oh well when it gets bad I'll go somewhere." Sometimes you don't have the time to do that. Either already be there or make a place in your own home for those situations.

Please take the next few weeks to prepare yourself for the situations that could arise in your area.Not just in your home either. Make sure your job has emegerncy plans that they know what to do when emergency weather strikes. Also churches and clubs that you belong to as well need a plan for emergencies. Around the country others will be doing be preparing so you won't be alone. Feel free to use the ideas that I have rounded up on my Pinterest for emergencies by clicking: HERE

The after math of April 27th after the AM in storms in Vance, AL.

Midtown Village sign after the storms

Tide and Duracell helping people after the storms

Alberta in Tuscaloosa at what used to be a very busy intersection.

Turn the Page

Today begins two new chapters in my life.

For the rest of my life I am no longer single (unless something happens to Chris.) Our engagement party is today. After this people will know it is legit. It exhilarates me. I have someone in my life who actually wants to spend the rest of his life with me. So yes he put a ring on it. I couldn't be any happier about that. We are starting a big chapter in our lives with this step. One where our stories will overlap. Our stories already interweave together.

Our engagement party is tonight. We were going to do it with a 50s theme but since we have had to shorten the time so we can get to Memphis we are going with elegance. My best friend is jumping up and down because I get to wear my hair all fancy. She was so excited when we changed the theme for tonight. She has dubbed my hair style for tonight as being mermaid style. Not really sure what that means but I think I will post pictures of it tonight or she will one.

I know the party will go smoothly no matter what. It's our families getting together for the first time so it's food, music, and small talk. I feel confident about tonight because well really I don't know. I guess it's just because with the other trials in my life the party tonight pales in comparison. Yes we are getting engagement presents but that doesn't matter to me. Maybe I'm wrong in saying that but I feel like I have more pressing issues and I know the party is suppose to take my mind off of those things but I'm not sure that it will.

It's after the party I'm worried about because this begins a gigantic chapter in my life. The last time I went through the doors at St. Jude's I was a patient's sister. When I go through those doors this time I'm his mom. I cannot describe how differently I feel. 1) I have grown attached to Jackjack like he was my own. 2) The last time through those doors my dad and stepmom were the ones taking responsibility for Jackjack.

Those papers that scattered my dad's hotel bed will be the papers I stare at trying to decipher them. The words that I didn't understand and didn't want to sound stupid by asking what they meant I will have to know. Realizing that those cries coming from Jackjack may not always be soothed away by a cookie or a gentle song. I feel helpless slightly. I know God has Jackjack and me in His hands but I feel so out of place already. I'm scared that other mothers will laugh and scoff at me. I know I shouldn't but it has crossed my mind several times.

I just ask that all of you keep Jackjack in your prayers. We have surgery and chemo starts.

December 17....

A Butterfly's Wings

This past weekend emotionally hit me, boyfriend and his brother hard. Our close friend and one of my best friend deals with depression and self harming. I know, I know she needs professional help. I got news for you people she is on her 4th shrink.

I don't know how I would deal if my parents always promised to come see me on Christmas Day and they never did. They will come see her on different holidays, but Christmas they promise and then they never do. She has been upset by a lot. Her past kept haunting her and she was jealous of me...

I wasn't proud of that at all. I knew how much Mary Ann struggled with her depression and knowing that she was jealous of me didn't make things easier with me helping her to cope. However, I swear God has these angels he likes to call Rasbrowen/Raposo brothers.

When she cut (over 50 slashes to herself and two of them going up and down) on Friday night/Saturday morning that threw us all for a loop. I went to sleep feeling like something wasn't right. I knew Mary Ann had been off tonight. She had confessed to Chris' brother Frankie she liked him. I woke up about 3:45 sweating and I was browsing my Facebook (because isn't that what everyone does when they can't sleep?) I seen the following and I bolted out of my bed pulling on a sweatshirt over my tshirt and trying to move Jackjack without waking him and calling Chris:

Mary Ann's status from two hours before was haunting me. Frankie would watch Jackjack while Chris and I would go check on her. She wouldn't answer the door so Chris being his self resorts to busting down the door like he does when he is on duty with the fire department. What he did next left my mouth hanging open.

She was dizzy and fuzzy from blood loss. Chris check to make non of the slashes were to wide or long and then stripped her down to her underwear and then lifted her into the bathroom. I was horrified at the blood in her house. He flipped on the water and proceeded to haul her right into the shower with her screaming that it hurt and was too hot. He didn't say a word. When he asked for a wash cloth I didn't hesitate I could tell he was in mode to not be messed with. He scrubbed her slashes while she screamed that he was soap and it burned. 

I remember thinking it was odd that he looked relieve that she was screaming and begging him to stop. He explained to me later that his younger brother who used to cut didn't mind water or soap because he liked the pain and sensation. Mary Ann was different, very different. Chris (who is still fully clothed and in the shower with her) flipped the water to cold. I learned that was to constrict her blood vessels. He grabbed a shabby looking towel and dried her off. (I can remember thinking this is weird like 50 Shades and Leila and that thought made me almost laugh.)

What Chris did next made me gasp and made Mary Ann scream. He pour alcohol (not peroxide) onto the slashes. I know that had to be torturous with all of those cuts. She was swearing at him and screaming for him to stop. She finally called him a son of a b****. He laughed and said told her she the nail on the head with that one. She hated that he laughed and decided to call him a bastard. He was quiet for a second and then smiled and said that it was pretty much true. He told her that she could bite him if the next gash hurt when he put the alcohol in. She did and she said she almost passed out from the pain. She started crying that it hurt and he told her that cutting hurts more than just her.

He wrapped her in bandages and then lifted her to me. She looked like a poodle with her wrists and lower legs bandages. Chris went and dug through her clothing until he found loose fitting pajamas. I sat there and dried her hair while Chris talked to Frankie explaining what had happened.

Poor Frankie hadn't slept at all that night learning about self harm. It should when he brought Jackjack over to Mary Ann's. I was so afraid that Frankie was going to look at her with disgust. He looked at her with concerned instead. He handed me Jackjack and walked over to her (while looking at the blood) and sat beside her and searched her eyes. I could tell she almost started crying because you could see the concern in his face and the caring and possible love in his eyes.

He took her hand and started to drawing a butterfly on the back of her hand. He explained to all of us what he had found out while researching self harming. This is called the Butterfly Project:

1. When you feel like you want to cut, take a marker, pen, or sharpies and draw a butterfly on your arm or hand.
2. Name the butterfly after a loved one, or someone that really wants you to get better.
3. You must let the butterfly fade naturally. NO scrubbing it off.
4. If you cut before the butterfly is gone, you’ve killed it. If you dont cut, it lives.
5. If you have more than one butterfly, cutting kills all of them.
6. Another person may draw them on you. These butterflies are extra special. Take good care of them.
7. Even if you don’t cut, feel free to draw a butterfly anyways, to show your support. If you do this, name it after someone you know that cuts or is suffering right now, and tell them. It could help.

He drew one on his own hand to show her that he was there for her as well. He took her leg and drew a Cookie Monster on her and told if she cut that she wouldn't get any cookies. Frankie sees himself as Cookie Monster because he eats at least 30 cookies of some sort a day. For her this was amazing. We fed her and Chris made her chase him to get her blood pumping. We spent the rest of the day having fun (including Alabama beating Georgia!)

What bothered me was what would have happened had Chris and I not busted down her door (Chris is paying to have it fixed btw.) Would we have found dead? Would she have finally come to her senses? 

I knew she self harmed, but I never dreamed I'd see it first hand. I had begged her to stop. I think part of me blames myself because I had pushed her to stop smoking (but that's equally as bad.) She had stopped smoking. 

Frankie stood out among every man I know last night. I knew the self harmed had bothered him because of his own past. His and Chris' baby brother was a huge self harmer and their own mother committed suicide and poor Frankie had tried to rip his own IV out when he couldn't get better.

Frankie had been working a basket for her. I was afraid a bear, food, and flowers would fade fast. He shocked his whole family and friends because he didn't put food and flowers (he did put a bear.) He gave her a stress ball that looks like a cookie that says if she wanted to release everything squeeze the cookie ball. 

If she wanted to cry, cry into the handkerchiefs that he had printed with sayings like: You are beautiful. You are can go on. You are worth more than what anyone tells you. He gave her two boxes of Twinings Tea that said if she wanted to drink to drink the tea. If she wanted to get high, stand on the foot stool he included and smell his shirt. He wrote on a water gun if she wanted to shoot herself use the it. He took off her bandages and put in it a picture saying if she wanted to her blood then look in the pictures frames with butterflies on them nonetheless. If she wanted to reminder of why she should go on use the note with his information and listen to her heart beat with the stethoscope. He also put a cd and a journal in there. However, the best thing he did. He went and had 3000 pictures printed of her and gave her a pair of dull scissors and told her to cut herself up all she wanted but he didn't want to see anymore scars.

His entire family and several friend was astounded by that last night. It was amazing. These are the guys that give girls hope when the rest of the population of men fail. 

Do not get discourage there is people out there that care this much about you if you are a self harmer. Take what he gave her and use it for yourself.

Mary Ann has now opened up completely. Not only has she cut before, she has also carved, she has also punched mirrors and glass windows to bruise and cut herself, she has scratched until her first layer of skin was gone, she has bit to the point that she made blood, she has pulled at her hair on her arms, put staples in herself and also embedded nails in her body. 

To many older adults they look at in disgusts saying these people just want attention. They do because they are not able to deal with life. I know many of us deal with life without self harm or drugs. Hopefully with time so will Mary Ann. She got saved Sunday so that's a start. 

Shocking fact:

Though not exclusively, the person seeking treatment is usually from a middle to upper class background, of average to high intelligence, and has low self-esteem. Nearly 50% report physical and/or sexual abuse during his or her childhood. Many report (as high as 90%), that they were discouraged from expressing emotions, particularly anger and sadness. - Mental Health America

The above video is from a website that has a great way to help people who self harm. I am checking into the iPhone App right now. Below are the numbers to help yourself or someone you love or care about. Please don't disregard what these people go through it could mean their life.

Depression Hotline: 1-630-482-9696

Suicide Hotline: 1-800-784-8433

LifeLine: 1-800-273-8255 

Trevor Project: 1-866-488-7386 

Sexuality Support: 1-800-246-7743 

Eating Disorders Hotline: 1-847-831-3438 

Rape and Sexual Assault: 1-800-656-4673 

Grief Support: 1-650-321-5272 

Runaway: 1-800-843-5200, 1-800-843-5678, 1-800-621-4000 

Movember

November ends in two days which means that the month that both Halo and Call of Duty came out is coming to end. That was only part of what many men were consumed about during this month. There was a good many concerned with something else which brings a smile to my face.

If you have noticed men a lot hairy this month don’t be concerned. In two days most will be cleaned shaven again. The reason for this is not because they have been so involved with video games, but to raise raise awareness of prostate cancer and other male cancer and associated charities

The US branch of "Mo Bros" (nice term huh?) have their own website even. Movember is the place where you go to register that you are "changing the face of men's health." I'm all about shedding light on more awareness besides women with breast cancer. Men struggle with cancer just like women do and often they go unnoticed.

Chris explained that a lot of guys don't want the humiliation that there is something wrong with them. The thing is they are still suffering. Chris was unable to participate in Movember this year being that he had a Navy conference this month. But this is a movement that is close to his heart because he suffered from cancer himself. He is in year 5 of remission. He is an adjunct to the Navy. He gets ranked and everything but he has his long hair. 

At first when Chris and I started talking and dating I didn't understand his obsession with his hair. I then found out he had cancer before he met me. He said women can wear wigs and people may never notice but men have it worse because when you have no eyebrows, no hair, and you can't wear fake eyelashes you stand out. My heart went out to him. I have learned to love and cherish is long hair since then.

I do have a friend Scott who is registered for Movember. He is dedicating all the money he would have spent on razor, shaving gel, and after shave to the charity. It's inspiring to see so many men come together to support one another. 

Another participate I know is my own pastor. He is a very young pastor. He warned everyone that he would be competing with a few of the college students (yep our class dared and challenged him.) So, we have a very hairy pastor at the moment. It's interesting to see how many guys do this. So women get your men on bored and men next year go hairy!

November Awareness

October is over with and November stands between us and the Christmas month. However, while you are mashing potatoes, putting the green bean casserole in the oven, and putting the marshmallows on the sweet potato pies, and the turkey is getting stuffed remember there are those out there who don't get that kind of meal, can't eat that kind of meal, and those who are working for a better tomorrow.

I realize that a lot of things I complain about are petty. (Though I do notice that a lot of things other people complain about are petty as well.) I strive (though many times I fall short) on giving back to others as well.

First of all, every year Samaritan's Purse does the Operation Christmas Child. You send in $7 and either you or the company packs a shoe box filled with toys and hygiene items for the children to help them know God. I have read so many stories this year alone about how one box changes a child's life for the better. Things we take for granted every day. I read where a child was 6 years old and in her box was nothing but hygiene items but the thing that stood out to that child the most was her first toy in her life-- a tiny figurine of a horse.

Try giving a child here in a well off family a plastic figurine of a horse and see how well that goes over. But to this child it was a blessing. Someone cared enough about her to pack a shoe box for her. It took my breath away reading that story. Children getting PS3 or Nintendo DSes for Christmas and all that child got was a plastic tiny horse that had to fit in a show box and her was blessed. However, if you whole family wants to go even further Samaritan's Purse has a catalog that  has a place where you can order drinking water ($100), week's worth of hot meals ($7), blankets (urgent need but only $6), building needs ($7,500 but shared the cost as $75), etc. I highly recommend this for like a donation taken up during a family get together and putting the money towards a good use. Collection week for the shoeboxes are collected by various churches this year from November 12-19!!!! Click Here for Official Website

People who cannot have a child of their own and want a child have seen the joy in adoption. Foster care children are desperately seeking families that will love them and accept them for who they are and what past they have. It is not easy getting to know a child that has been thrown from one home to the next. They feel like no one will like them. They revolt rules because that feels like they aren't free to be who they want to be. Ask them what they want to do. Every year on National Adoption Day, thousands of adoption across the country are finalized. It's an open event, so you can show your support by attending a local finalization. These are children who need the love and support. Click Here for Official Website

Make sure your recycle this month and especially on the 15! Because it is National Recycle Day! With the involvement and enthusiasm by people, recycling is back! And so are thousands upon thousands of recycled products made from materials that would otherwise be piling up in our nation's landfills. It doesn't just make sense. It makes a huge difference to our environment, our quality of life and our country's future. Help Alabama or your state, or even your country become recycling conscience! Click Here for the Official Website

The National Family Caregivers Association (NFCA) supports, empowers, educates, and speaks up for the more than 50 million Americans who care for a chronically ill, aged, or disabled loved one. NFCA reaches across the boundaries of different diagnoses, different relationships and different life stages to address the common needs and concerns of all family caregivers. They are committed to improving the overall quality of life of caregiving families and minimizing the disparities between family caregivers and non-caregivers. November is their month! Click Here for Official Website

I have four very close friends in the Marines. Marines are some of the strongest people I know. Abby Scuito in the first season of NCIS said it quite nicely, "Semper Fi, you rat, you fry." Marines are strong. They can be in total pain and they find a way to still serve no matter what is going on in their personal life or going on with their bodies. It's very invigorating to see how well they dwell under pressure and stress. I am all about helping soldiers who are injured during basic or in battle. Help them raise funds for Injured Marines and their families. Severely wounded Marines continue to fight battles here and at home and struggle to adjust to their injuries. This Organization provides financial support to injured Marines while they continue their long road to recovery, as well as aid for post traumatic stress disorder cases from war, and all branches of the U.S Military as the need arises. Click the picture below:

Diabetes is a disease in which the body does not produce or properly use insulin. Insulin is a hormone that is needed to convert sugar, starches and other food into energy needed for daily life. The cause of diabetes continues to be a mystery, although both genetics and environmental factors such as obesity and lack of exercise appear to play roles.

There are 20.8 million people in the United States, or 7% of the population, who have diabetes. While an estimated 14.6 million have been diagnosed with diabetes, unfortunately, 6.2 million people (or nearly one-third) are unaware that they have the disease. I am one of those people. I am not a bad diabetic. I just exercise and eat appropriately. Even though I have it I am not pushing for others to be all about it. I am living with it. However, there are others that have it much worse and for those I'd loved to find a cure. Those that live off an insulin pump. Click Here For the Official Site 

Lung Cancer Awareness Month (LCAM) is a national campaign dedicated to increasing attention to lung cancer issues. By organizing rallies, distributing educational material, holding fund-raising events, contacting Congress, and speaking to the media, those involved in LCAM bring much-needed support and attention to a disease that each year kills more people than breast, prostate, colon and pancreas cancers combined. Every year, smokers across the nation take part in the American Cancer Society's Great American Smokeout¨ by smoking less or quitting for the day on the third Thursday of November. The event challenges people to stop using tobacco and raises awareness of the many effective ways to quit for good. Click Here for Official Website

Help the Troops in Iraq! The Project currently ships over 700 care packages each month to Marines stationed in Iraq and Afghanistan. Their database grows daily as Marines send names of comrades who are not receiving mail or care packages. You can help get care packages of needed items to these Marines! My friend who has a husband in the Marines loves coming up with creative theme care packages to send him and his friends. I love watching her be so strong for both of them. I just love the courage and belief she has in him. I am all for this! Click Here for Official Site

The Alzheimer's Association, the world leader in Alzheimer research and support, is the first and largest voluntary health organization dedicated to finding prevention methods, treatments and an eventual cure for Alzheimer's. For 25 years, the donor supported, not for profit Alzheimer's Association has provided reliable information and care consultation; created supportive services for families; increased funding for dementia research; and influenced public policy changes. Click Here for the Official Site

Every day 1 in 8 babies born in the U.S. arrives too soon. Premature birth can happen to any pregnant woman, and no one knows why. It is a serious, common and costly problem. The March of Dimes is leading the campaign to reduce premature births by supporting research and by educating the public and health care providers. Click for Official Site

All Saints' Day and Remembrance

I hope everyone's Halloween was fun and safe! I know some people don't celebrate Halloween for certain reasons and I actually had a few people say that they couldn't believe I did. I'm sorry, but it's not like I have the Pagan symbol walking around. I used last night to share the news about Christ. Oriental Trading had amazing Jesus and Halloween goodies, like this HERE. They had tattoos and eraser as well. We had a blast. Our church did several hay rides through the city taking us all over the place.

Chris' stepmom, Lisa, came and had dressed up her twins Carisle and Carlee. To be Baby Mario and Baby Luigi. Timmy (Chris's baby brother) had dressed up his baby boy to be Baby Luigi. So it was awesome! I really enjoyed the whole thing with the church.

However, I realize not everyone's Halloween was as good. I know for a lot of people it was one of the worst days of their lives. People this week have really made me less than nice and calm because they are complaining about things that can easily be fixed or are really selfish. There are people that were in the hospital that are having to be moved frantically. People without power. Or worse people that had their homes ripped from them in the massive fire. Everything they had built on put money into have a life.

It irks me so bad. I donate not only money, but my time as well. I plan on stuffing shoe boxes while traveling to Baton Rouge tomorrow. I love watching the videos of those children opening up their shoe boxes. They are so excited for toys and small gifts that fit inside a shoebox. A shoebox... No dollhouse, no remote control car, no Xbox, no PS3. Simple toys out of a dollar bin and these  children think that they are living it up. It warms my heart to know that something so simple can put a smile on a child's face. 

Those poor people in New York and surrounding areas that are flooded by waters. It irks me that nowhere in New York City barely has power except Wall Street. And businesses will be next after that because that's how the government ranks importance. Businesses get opened first because they can supply people and help the money transaction keep going and help people get back to work and making money.

I sent the above image to a friend of mine. She wanted to be knocked with reality on how to appreciate things. I'll admit that another friend of mine sent it to me. Claudette's husband is deployed at the moment. She doesn't know his location or if he is safe. She is 26 weeks pregnant with triplets. Christian was barely with when she found she pregnant and he was ripped away from her. However, she doesn't dwell on it. Her sister said she has kept a very active life up. She has talked to me on occasion that she knew it came with Christian. He was doing what he loved and that was following in his family's footstep in the military. She doesn't complain. She gets to Skype him every two weeks. Nothing in between besides a few letters. She said that the above image is posted as her phone background. She said that she doesn't wish for Christian to be with her because he is where he needs to be and that her wishing he was there only hurts him. She said she is just grateful to know that she has a husband that loves her and his country.

I have been so proud of her. She had a few rocky spots but she climbed over them. She said it had nothing to do with the babies that kept her mind off of things. She said it was her urge to show Christian she was just as strong as him. It made me laugh. It sounded like me. She has been volunteering at the soup kitchen. She said that helping others really helps her. I couldn't have agreed with her more.

So take a minute and remember the people that are dealing with losing everything, losing their loved ones, and the military that is out there helping people around the world. 

Happy Halloween

When witches go riding,

and black cats are seen,

the moon laughs and whispers,

‘tis near Halloween.

~Author Unknown

Treat bags are stuff, wearing one my costume, and Chris' truck looks like a ghost ship that has gigantic green pipes in the back of it, so it must be Halloween! I love Halloween. I have accomplished many things this year in preparation for this year's Halloween.

Last night I really enjoyed being an adult on Halloween time. I made Halloween cupcakes and Halloween cocktails to enjoy while we stuffed treat bags. It was a lot a of fun. We counted twice last night so we are sure we have 300 treat bags. Our church estimated at least 100 kids so we are going prepared incase there are even more. We are going at Princess Peach (Me), Princess Daisy (Dani), Luigi (Frankie), Mario (Chris),  Yoshi (Chris' dog Harry), and Birdo (my dog Abby). We took party streamers and made Chris' truck into a ghost ship by using brown streamers and some black in between the brown. We painted trash can green for the pipes like the Mario Bros Games.

We are having our Halloween/Fall celebration at church. We are doing the hayride and then having a carnival like event and then at 7:30 we are doing trunk or treat. Are classroom boggart went great. We had a little girl that was so excited. I love my students. They were excited to see Miss Who come in wearing her Lily/Hermione costume. Mr. Who will be coming in later this afternoon wearing his Snape costume.

Halloween is not a big deal to me this year. Jackjack is still at St. Jude's. Yes he gets to do their trick or treating, but I wish I could be there or him be with me because I got him an awesome Jackjack costume. Last year he was an apple. May next year he can go as Jack from Nightmare Before Christmas.

I'll admit I am looking forward to holding my Jackjack all the time. He will be slightly spoiled come December because when Sissy (that's me!) isn't at work she will be holding her little man. I am already planning his room and what we are doing for Christmas. I get to Facetime him later once he is in his little costume. I can't wait to see that smiling face! Very excited about seeing him!

The above image is VERY important. People do not realize a lot of these things. A lot people think the children are rude and not brought up right and in some cases that's true. Also keep in mind that teens like to trick or treat as well. It's their last right as a kid. Don't you wish you could still dress up and go trick or treating. Just make sure they don't trick you! Stay safe. 

Parents even though your children can be just doing the trunk or treat or treasure treat make sure they still wear reflective clothing and have a bracelet or temporary tattoo with your number. Those places can get crowded and your children can get separated from you. Make sure if you do go regular trick or treating to be cautious still about what houses you visit and neighborhood. Be mindful of Beware of Dog signs, traffic, and the houses that you do go to as well.

I hope everyone has a Happy Halloween! 

Bonne fête de la Toussaint

Always Aware...

Yes it's breast cancer month.... The National Football League is covered in pink on Sunday and Monday nights during this month including the refs whistles. So I'm putting a pink ribbon here:

There is my awareness for breast cancer. No I'm not being rude about it, but Breast cancer overpowers the rest of the cancers not to mention there are other things to be aware of this month. I have had a friend who suffered breast cancer so I know it's important. Here are some other causes to be aware of in October:

Pregnancy Loss and Infant Loss Awareness Month
Clergy Appreciation Month
National Arts & Humanities Month
Domestic Violence Awareness Month
National Cyber Security Awareness Month
National Bullying Prevention Month

There are others but this is just to realize that there are more. For instance Autism, Homelessness, and Down Syndrome are suppose to be brought aware during the month of October.

I think people need to realize that yes Breast Cancer is important but so are other cancers and other causes. I loved South Carolina. 1) They almost had LSU beaten and still gave them a run for their money. 2) They had uniforms that was dedication for the Fallen Soldiers instead of Breast Cancer Awareness. 3) I love their coach when he throws his visor because back when he used to coach Florida everyone learned his ways so you just know that visor is about to be thrown.

Side note: I'm working on the holiday blogs for you. We are going to be looking at Advent toward the end of November where you light candles in a wreath. But before that is Halloween with Vampire and Zombie weeks. :) 

New Topics for Blog! Moundville's Native American Festival

I have decided to redo parts of my blog. I am getting rid of the craft and recipe section—but, keeping a "Make Things" so they are all a big section. Taking it's place is the section called Events. I will be doing Alabama and other events that go along with my blog or that I deem interesting. If you have any you want me to write about please let me know.

My first event is an event I attended last year, but am not able to attend this year because of family emergencies and personal setbacks. I enjoyed this event a lot when I attended and I think it is a learning event as well as entertainment. Go all the way to Tuscaloosa to enjoy Moundville's Native American Festival.

The 320-acre park, containing more than 20 mounds built by a community of Native Americans of the Mississippian culture, was designated as a National Historic Landmark in 1964. The site is believed to have been America's largest city north of Mexico 800 years ago. It's an event that has been held for over 20 years. The festival, first held in 1989, began with the mission of teaching schoolchildren about Southeast Native American culture. The festival director says that over the years they have taught over 100,000 people about arts, crafts, and lifeways of the Southeastern Indians. Many of the Native Americans look forward to this event because for many of them it is a homecoming event.

There are many live entertainment specials to pick from such as The Chickasaw Nation Dance Troupe, the Bogue Houma Choctaw Dancers, the Mystic Wind Choctaw Dancers and Lyndon Alec that will demonstrate traditional dances. Injunuity, a Native American Music flue-guitar duo from Oklahoma, will be there with its mix of traditional and modern styles. Other performers are singer-songwriter Michael Jacobs and flutists Billy Whitefox, Sydney Mitchell, Jimmy Yellowhorse and Charlie Mato-Toyela. On Saturday, the Mystic Wind Stickball Players of the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians will demonstrate the sport of stickball. Last but not final is Gayle Ross will tell Cherokee stories throughout the week. Ross, a frequent performer at storytelling and folk festivals across the country, is the direct descendant of John Ross, chief of the Cherokee Nation during and after the Trail of Tears. (These are just to name a few.)

The festival has many different things that are for all ages. It's a way to expose people to more culture and for them to realize that there was a time when you could live with the land. They accomplish this by having such stations as living history, arts and craft arbors, target rang, children's area, Knapper's corner, arts market and trader's circle, food courts, and park explorations.

Living history part of the festival is where people can really learn what life was about back then. The past can come to life through sights, sounds, and smells. All kinds of characters, dressed in period clothing, are camped out and wander throughout the park to show what life was like back in the 1400s through early 1800s. In the arts and crafts arbors the Native Americans and other experts show how they created pottery, basketry, beadwork, ancient tools and weapons, silversmithing, fingerweaving, and a lot more. They encourage people to ask question because they want to show how things were done back then without what we call technology. Storytelling and corn husk doll making are available.

Target Range is very cool you can watch the experts throw spears, shoot blowguns, and practice archery skills that they have. Sometimes you might be lucky enough to to watch them competing. They will let some participants actually throw spears and rabbit sticks. They will always have displays of ancient tools, weapons, and hunting and fishing equipment around them. Knapper's Corner is where flintknappers shape arrow and spear points, knives and other tools from stone. They sell their work and are always willing to share their knowledge. Bow maker and blacksmiths can also be found in this area.

Children's area was probably my favorite because the kids get to make shell necklaces, play Indian games, get their face painted, dress up in historic clothing, make headbands and learn how clothing was made from trees. Arts market and trader circle is where fine artists exhibit and sell sculpture, pottery, gourds, baskets, textiles, carvings, flutes, paintings, and prints. Reproductions of handcrafted clothing, jewelry, books, tapes, and many more souvenirs for every pocketbook that comes. Also in the newly renovated museum don't forget the Knotted Bird gifts for more shopping.

In the food courts there will be a wide variety of delicious Indian foods at the main food court. Traditional festival concessions are also available. Near the river is even more food. As far as exploring the park going to the Chieftain's Mound there are experts that will tell you all about the new discoverings happening at Moundville. Or taking a leisure stroll down the boardwalk nature trails. Plus the excavation behind Jones Museum is another thing not to be missed.

The festival will be open from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Wednesday to Friday and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday at the Moundville Archaeological Park, located 13 miles south of the University of Alabama campus on Alabama Highway 69. Admission to the festival is $10 for adults, $8 for students and free for children ages 5 and younger. Call 205-371-8732 for more information on discounts with group reservations.

Click here for the Pamphlet

Sick and Tired

**Warning** Strong views on this subject if you disagree please don't bother commenting, if you agree and want to tell me go ahead a comment. I've been thinking about these decisions since I was young and they aren't going to change. Also when I say child (2-18)

I have had the urge to be a mother since I was just a baby myself. I had so many baby dolls it on the point of pathetic. The thing is my dolls were not like the some other little girls' dolls. My dolls could be bad and they were punished. No I did not beat my dolls, but they were spanked. Just like I was and I am not ashamed to say it.

I am a pro spank. I do believe however that there is a way you should do it. I do not agree with child abuse and do not start telling me that it is. If the child believes it is ok to hit people because you are spanking them then there is some hitting going on elsewhere in their lives. I never once thought it was okay to hit someone.

I was spanked a lot as a child. I wanted to do what my brothers did. I thought it was awesome to climb trees even when dad told me not to climb them. And let us not forget the time I thought it was so cool that I climb the hay bale trying to chase after Jared. I do not resent my dad for spanking me for those things at all. It was a consequence.

It amazes me how America claims it was started to get away from Government telling them what to do about church and here 200 and 300 years later they are doing the same thing to their own country. "Allow gay marriage." "You do not have the right to spank you kids." I'm sorry, but if the people back in 1700s heard this they would be screaming witchcraft at all of us. I don't blame them.

I'm tired of parents giving in to their kids. "Oh his mother walked out on us that's why he acts the way he does." No the real reason is he wants your attention and guidance dummy. "Well it's just a phase." Yeah it's a phase that won't end unless you put your foot down. "I raised them better than that they wouldn't do that." Apparently you didn't because they are telling everyone but you and the people in charge that they did it. "His teacher isn't teaching him right. I never see him crack open a book." Well duh you are too busy at work and/or you don't make him study at home like he should. Open your eyes parents. You think the world is turning into such an awful place you can change it by starting with your own kids.

Stop living like granted all sorts of freedom to your child will help rectify that you felt like you were enclosed as a child. I realize you want to be the cool parent, but what a child really wants is love. Just saying I love you and buying things doesn't get it. Rules and consequences will be what really sticks out in their head because it shows that with all that is going on in your own life you care.

If your child messes up do not stop loving them. Yes crack the rules down further. Do not compare them with a sibling or friend because that does hurt and brings down self esteem. A child has to realize right and wrong. I see the same problem with my stepmom and dad. They give in to my oldest brother so much because they don't want to deal with his tantrums.

He is twelve years old. I do not allow that crap when he is with me. I meant business with him. I might have been mean sissy afterwards but he respects me now and talks to me like a human being and not his slave. I know he reads my blogs and I know for a fact he doesn't care that I'm putting this out there because 1) It is my own right. He is the minor. Yes he is a human being with feelings, but I am not shaming him for this. 2) He knows he deserves it. His own reaction to when I put him in his place? He hugged me.

Parents stop thinking your children are little innocent angels. They aren't and they won't be unless you teach them wrong from right. That goes back to you, not church leaders or school teachers, you! What you do you child will do.

I never knew my mom. Did that justify me not getting to my butt spanked? No it didn't. If anything it should have furthered it so I can make her proud. I want to make her proud and being a spoil brat that gets in trouble all the time and nothing happens.She would not be happy if my dad beat me for nothing though. So it does balance out. I do not fear my dad at all. I love him for spanking my butt as a child. If you do not feel loved after that then they either did it wrong or you are just close minded to understand.

Also if you feel like you need to work 2 jobs, spend outrageous amounts on clothes, and material things and you cannot afford a child do the whole world a favor and close your legs and don't have any. I get so sick of hearing "I'm having to work 2 jobs because his dad is a good for nothing that never comes around." 1) That problem could have been solved with you a long time ago. A relationship takes time. A baby will not help things in many cases it makes then worse on the relationship. So many times couples don't talk about having children. Well they talk about having them with all the sweetness and happiness they don't talk about budgeting or how to disciple a child. And if there is a conflict they just shrug it off but then they have sex and you can shrug it off when the child is actually in the world. Close your legs or make role model decisions.

On an ending note. I do plan to spank my children if they need it. I'm sure like most children they will from time to time. Please do not try to persuade me it won't do you any good. Below is a perfect example I'm sure we have all seen and heard where a child needs a spanking.

Lonely, Sad, Hurt, or Depressed?

Have you ever felt like nothing is going your way? Feeling like nobody would even notice if you were gone? It is not true. Somewhere you are changing someone's life. You may feel like a hindrance but you aren't. When you feel like you can't go on. Tell someone, anyone. If your best friend won't talk to you, parents, or teachers you can email me. I will listen to you. Everyone has a purpose in life.

I have had a friend take their own life. We sat beside each other in high school for most of it because her last name started with an M as well. She wasn't a best friend, but we would casually talk. She asked me one day about how did I like work. We talked for a while. Two days later she didn't show up for school.

I guess what upset me the most was counselors kept asking who her best friend was or if anyone had talked to her in the past week or days. I felt horrible because I was the only one to come forward. Her lonely grandmother asked me what we had talked about. I told her that she had simply asked about my job. Her grandmother burst into tears. "She wanted to help me. She really did care."

I know a lot of advocates and other people think that it's all up to the person that takes their own life. I'm here to tell you it's not. So many people are pounded with the fact that they aren't meeting someone standards. You have to realize that no they are not dealing with the same things as you but they are dealing with their own problems and conflicts.

I try my hardest to be as friendly as possible to people, even if on the inside I want to rip my hair out and my eyes go black as night just so they leave me alone. There are few rare cases where people just try my patience and kindness. I end up ignoring those people and not caring what goes on in their lives. I would care if they died, but that's about it. Should I feel this way? No but I am working on it.

Even while I was writing this blog a friend of mine was faced with a friend wanting to commit suicide. It is always difficult being faced with that. What if you say the wrong thing? What if they do it anyhow and the last words said to them were the words you spoke to them? It's a very unnerving thought.

Every 15 minutes someone takes their life. Spend 1 minute learning the warning signs and learn how to prevent suicide.

Suicide Warning Signs:

• Talking about wanting to die or to kill themselves.
• Looking for a way to kill themselves, such as searching online
• Talking about feeling hopeless or having no reason to live
• Talking about feeling trapped or in unbearable pain
• Talking about being a burden to others
• Increasing the use of alcohol or drugs
• Acting anxious or agitated; behaving recklessly
• Sleeping too little or too much
• Withdrawing or isolating themselves
• Showing rage or talking about seeking revenge
• Displaying extreme mood swings

Please help out someone you know and let's everyone have a second chance at life and living!

If you a person thinking of committing suicide and you found my blog please reconsider.I don't know you personally but I would like to help you please email me. Also please call the hotline for help that is confidential. 

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Go For the Gold this Month!!!!

Chili's Grill & Bar began its Create a Pepper to Fight Childhood Cancer promotion for St. Jude in 2002 in its Memphis-area restaurants. For me back then cancer was all the same. By the time it reached our Chili's in Alabama during our break before school started I just always thought it was leukemia. I've become a lot wiser and knowledgeable about cancers and the different kinds.

My first dose of cancer in my life started with mother of my stepmom I have now. All I heard was she had colon cancer. I realized then when trying to understand what was going on then that there were several kinds. Aurora, came into my life as a friend and family and she had always had cancer. She has been fighting it all of her life. Before I knew him personally Chris had to battle cancer. Now here I am with it as close to me as it ever has been. My tiny baby brother, Jackjack, suffers from Childhood Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia.

So we are in the first week of September which actually is Childhood Cancer Awareness Month. I have never made this a big deal before because honestly I wasn't aware of it. I colored the pepper at Chili's but I never put much thought into where the donation was going. This time when I make my pepper look like Harry Potter I will be dedicating it to Jackjack. And Chris has said that he will be drawing the Incredibles Logo on his.

If you want to learn more please click below:

• National Cancer Institute
• St. Jude's Children Hospital
• Cure Childhood Cancer

Be sure to Create Your Pepper and Donate!

Chili's Create A Pepper

Rolling with Crohnies...

Two weeks ago for an awareness post I did one on Crohn's disease. I wrote what Crohn's patients go through. I think this time I will go further into detail on what they need and why.

Like I said Chris's triplet Frankie has one of the severest cases in the southeast. He has been to UAB (he got zero help there), Atlanta (best help he has had so far), Nashville, and several other places. He is living in a assisted living place. He still loves baskets for surprises. He doesn't care much for flowers.

With Crohn's patients do not give food unless you know specifically that they can eat that food. With Frankie he can eat cookies all day and every day and never have a flare up from cookies. Now the stress from something might make him have ones but it's never cookies. He loves cookies more than anything with the exception of his family and babies. A website, that is also an app for iPhone and iPad users, called Everyday Health helps many people with different kinds of disease. They also have apps for certain foods to eat as well as activities.

So at any rate, I am taking a stand and not letting it be such a taboo subject on my blog. Also for more information from someone who deals with Crohn's check out RJ Taylor's blog who is not much older than Frankie and is slightly younger than Erica.

I have searched high and low for lists of things Crohn's patients like/need/want when they are dealing with a flare up. I will not post medicine to give patients because I'm sure that's something that each individual patients wants to pick out. I have come across many, however, I really hate that it is such a taboo subject and sooo many people think there is just one type of Crohn's intensity. Plus, there is information on how work places don't realize the effect that Crohn's, and diseases like it, have on the patients, aka their employees.

The number one thing I have seen most common: Toilet paper. I seen several people who get excited because their loved ones brings home luxurious toilet paper for them to use. The reason why its so important? Because they have to use the restroom- a lot. We aren't talking like 5 or 6 times, we are talking close to twenty or more. Sometimes patients of this disease are told to get a special foot stool to help them evacuate their bowels without putting strain on them.

Wipes were also among the top things I discovered that Crohn's patients wants. They also like for them to soft and plenty. Some may want medicated so ask before sending.

Any kind of heat wrap I promise will be well received by a Crohnie. Even if it's in the summer. Hot water bags, heating pad, heating bags, herbal bags, etc they will use it. In keep in that note they like blankets as well.

Depending on the patient they may love new underwear but that depends solely on your relationship with that person. I know it's well received by my two friends that have it but yet they both have a good sense of humor and are open with everyone. If anything else get them a fun tshirt, 100% so it will be light on them or pajama or lounge pants.

They also like pillows that keep cold throughout the night. Crohnies are prone to getting night sweats. So herbal packs that can be heated or put in the freezer is also well received. The same thing goes for hot water bottles. The name of the pillows are called Chillows.

Crosswords, word searches, Sudoku, or bathroom books, because they love having something to do and read while they are having to spend hours in the bathroom. Frankie suggested something to hold pens, books and games as well. He said it's aggravating having to grab those items when the need strikes.

Frankie even said if you are thinking birthday or Christmas, to get him a tablet with a charging cord that is long to reach to the electrical socket. Some of the other patients have said at least a portable DVD player. This once again is because there are days where they are stuck in the bathroom, literally all day.

Back and foot massagers are great for Crohies as well. A back massager is a good gift for anyone, but it will be especially welcome for anyone who has Crohns or IBD. Arthritis is a common complication, and it affects about 25% of patients. Aches and pains can really get you down, but applying a little heat and some massage can really do wonders. And while getting a massage for that aching back, why not pay attention to the feet, which can also be affected by arthritis. When your feet hurt, the rest of your body can feel great, but you just can't get past those tired dogs. Foot massagers, dry or wet, really work well to make you feel better all over.

Though there is one thing I love with the Crohnie's.... tea. Green tea especially. Now not all Crohnies love tea so double check. However, both of mine do. They both love tea so much. So defiantly try tea with the Crohnie in your life. 

Bloodsuckers - Updated

Nope no Twilight post here, however, with the rate of West Nile going up people are starting to really freak out. I am among those people. I do not like being sick and I do like a little bit of outside exposure.

First and for most experts are saying that it will be held back if it doesn't rain a lot. However, with Hurricane Issac rearing his ugly self through the south part of the country, does that mean we could end up like Dallas, Texas? (Link) I am going to take plenty of precautions and I figured I would share with the rest of my followers.

• Dump any standing water on your property
• Use bug spray with DEET
• Wear long sleeve shirts and pants when outside.
• Avoid going outside at twilight (ok so the word is mentioned) and dawn

***Update***

Although deet still ranks as the overall best repellent, several others have compared favorably to it. Picaridin, for instance, works well as a repellent. Permethrin is not technically a repellent since it kills mosquitoes and other bugs, and it should be applied to clothing and gear, not skin, but it too works well to keep mosquitoes from biting. One natural and effective option is lemon eucalyptus oil, though you have to apply it more frequently - Buck Tilton, Backpacking Expert

My neighborhood has been sprayed for mosquitoes. If yours hasn't I strongly suggest writing to your town council or city council and suggesting so. Also check to see if mosquitoes in your area or around your area. Children and elderly people are the ones be affected the most but anyone can be infected.

West Nile virus experts claim that many times the virus passes through people without anyone knowing they have it. Death tolls are starting to rise which means some people have a worse case of the virus. People need to be aware of the symptoms:

The severe symptoms can include high fever, headache, neck stiffness, stupor, disorientation, coma, tremors, convulsions, muscle weakness, vision loss, numbness and paralysis. These symptoms may last several weeks, and neurological effects may be permanent.

Up to 20 percent of the people who become infected have symptoms such as fever, headache, and body aches, nausea, vomiting, and sometimes swollen lymph glands or a skin rash on the chest, stomach and back. Symptoms can last for as short as a few days, though even healthy people have become sick for several weeks. 

Most commonly people who are infected with WNV will not show any symptoms at all. So if you are worried after getting a mosquito bite go have blood work done. If I am bitten I will get test and then get a second opinion as well. That's just my own personal feelings though.

West Nile fever is characterized by symptoms such as fever, body aches, headache and sometimes swollen lymph glands and rash. West Nile fever generally lasts only a few days, though in some cases symptoms have been reported to last longer, even up to several weeks. There is no specific treatment for WNV infection. (Link)