What I've learned today:Weekend Edition - Schedules

*blowing off dust* *cough*....

Hi everyone! Yep, I'm back after a lil hiatus. Had lots going on...life, death, and everything in between. But through it all, God was and is, and will always be faithful!!

So, just wanted to talk about a lil something major that went on this weekend. I volunteer at a local high school, coaching students to figure out what they want to do with their lives after high school. Part of that, includes coordinating a program with a local nonprofit organization. We worked with them last year, and liked the experience, so we decided we'd do it this year.

We planned this program over the summer. As soon as school started we shared our plans with administration. All was a go! We planned, got volunteers, ordered food, recruited students...all things we needed to make this program a success. Then....

Maybe a week or so before the program we learn - this program falls on HOMECOMING WEEKEND!!!

So all Friday night, teens partied at the dance, like teens do. Our program was early Saturday morning. Only half of the students signed up showed up. The ones that were there were half sleep, or anxious to leave to get ready for the football game. It was hard to keep their focus, but I have to hand it to them, the students AND staff were pure CHAMPS about it all. No on complained, the students tried the best they could, and the staff was more than willing to help when needed.

In the end, it was a success...but:

What I learned: Make SURE that ALL schedules are coordinated. If you plan something and the calendar is still being worked out, WAIT - you never know what may fall on the date you have set.

Take care!!

What I Learned Today: Woven into my bday!

Today is my birthday!! 

I have always been the type that has been excited about my birthday. It's another year that I have gotten to see that many of my family and peers didn't get to see.

Many people asked what did I do today. And I must say, I did NOTHING, and it felt GREAT. I also got my very first massage. And let me tell you, if you haven't gotten one yet, you need to get on the "good-foot" and see about going to get one!

I told my mother I was going to get one, and her first response was "don't get deep tissue". I'm like awww ma, I'll be fine. She warned me at least 3 times. Then it was followed by that famous "Awright"...as in "Look, I done told you...".

I should have listened. *ouch* my muscles are so tender! All I can think about is getting to my bed and having a heating pad put on my back lol.

Oh another stand out thing happened. Usually every morning, I wake up and say Thank You Jesus, read my scripture for the day, and tell the hubby "Good morning baby". Well today was a little different. My husband got the kids up, and they sneaked into the room. And with a bunch of energy, belted out "Happy Birthday To You"...it was the greatest sight to wake up to. Man, I love my family! After that, I rolled over to read, and it was the verse in Acts that speaks of how because he has life, he's going to spread the news of Jesus. I thought that was such a "happy birthday, now get up and do my work" from the Lord...that's just like Him LOL

What I Learned Today: A massage is SO awesome, it will make you want to leave humming and singing a new tune!

Not matter how old you are - listen to your mother!!

God allows us to live to accomplish His will.

What I learned today: Don't have a broken radar!

So a lot of people have been on this whole Iyanla Vanzant kick.

I have had a problem with her for a while, but I couldn't put my finger on it. Then she did her dog and pony act on Oprah to get in her good graces - and BAM! She has her own TV show on O's network...strange? Not really.

If we look at this spiritually, we will see, that satan can't divide his house...he wants his kingdom to stand. So uniting those two wasn't anything unusual.

Here's a lil something on Ms Vanzant. Unbeknownst to many, she is a Yoruba Priestess (http://www.ifafoundation.org/iyanla-vanzant) And no, the "god" she talks about is not the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. She does not have Him in her, so she can not speak truth - no matter how "sweet" it sounds.

It pains me to see so many people breathing her in - especially Christians. This lets me know that their "radar" is broken. If you are studying God's word, when something isn't true, it should pop right out at you. Tonight she said ""Healing is not easy. And, sometimes you must be willing to lose everything in order to gain yourself" and the response of a "Christian" woman was "Iyanla is on FIYA'!!!"....but what's wrong with this statement? Again, remember it sounds good...but it's not true. It's directly contrary to God's word...

""For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul?" Matt 16:26

This life is NOT about you gaining yourself...it's about denying self and dying daily to self "Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me." Matt 16:24.

What I learned today: be careful of what you let in your spirit. Satan is clever...he comes sweet and innocent and wrecks shop once he has your trust. Don't give him a centimeter b/c he won't take a mile...he'll take your life.

Know your BIBLE and the God of it!

 

What I Learned Today: Why there's a friggin SAVE button!

You won't believe this! I had a WHOLE POST laid out...pressed ONE button and it's GONE!

What I learned today...there's a "save" button for a reason....grrrrrr

GN!

What I Learned Today: Stuff in the last 6 days.

It has been five - wait, SIX whole days since I last blogged. For one of those days, I was so medicated, and out of it that I don't remember if I learned anything.

I did learn though:

When it comes to migraines...stop trying "new stuff" and do what works!

Most people don't want to hear the truth.

When you ask God for something, don't think that you know how He's going to respond.

Taking a break from church doesn't mean that you're taking a break from God.

Thomas Jefferson isn't who most ppl thought he was, but this country is everything I thought it to be.

In a quest for equality, sometime innocent people are used as pawns.

There's more, but I'm so tired!! I actually restarted my "work out routine" since I had to miss a few days last week. And I can definitely tell my body was working today!!

On that note, good night! :-)

What I Learned Today: TV vs Reality...

So, I was one of millions that watched the DNC today. Although I side with no one, I felt compelled to watch for several reasons - some being, I like the entertainment, people watching, and the speeches.

So I watched Mrs Obama and first off, I must say, that her makeup artist, beautician, and stylist need a raise! I remember when she first took the national stage - one thing that constantly killed me were those eyebrows!! But they are tame now, and her edges are slick and her hair is bouncy. Love it! But that DRESS...can we say SUPER CUTE?? On a scale of 1-Fab, I give it a FABULOUS (that's 5 more letters than "fab" so that's saying something!)

Second, I must say - this is a woman who loves her man! You could see it all in the way she talked and in her body language. No doubt, there is some strong lovin' between the two. If things are rocky on the inside, you would NEVER know. They show what families of old used to be like - not this crap on TV. Which leads me to my point....

LADIES (single and married)....we are going to get enough of letting TV define what our marriages and relationships "should" be like. With shows like "The Bachelor" and "Love and Hip Hop" women are getting a skewed view of what real love is! It's NOT about materialistic things - it's not even about sex (pick up your mouths; yes, I know it's hard to believe). We spend so much time looking on the outside - and what a man can "give us" that if he can't give us what we expect to have - we skip right over him. Taking cues from these shows will leave us lonely b/c we will be chasing something forever that DOES NOT EXIST in a REAL relationship!

A REAL relationship consists of the two of you meeting each other right where you are, and growing together. It requires patience, kindness, not being boastful or prideful. It's not about being jealous of each other or each other's success. It's not about being RUDE to each other and calling each other out of your names when you are around or not around each other. It's not about being selfish and wanting your own way, it's not about being irritable and argumentative, and it's definitely not about keeping "score" on who was wrong and how many times. Do you want to know what it's REALLY about? Well, here's a clue, it's the opposite of ^^^that! *for bible readers out there, this should sound familiar. If you aren't read: 1 Corinthians 13:3-5 in the Holy Bible*

One thing that struck me is that Michelle recounted a time when the president would pick her up and an old rusted out car. She said she could see the street whizzing by through a hole in the door. Had she taken her cues of what a "man" is supposed to be like - she wouldn't be the 1st lady.

What I learned today: Keep messing around with TV shows and their definitions of relationships and women will find themselves lonely, crushed, and will miss THEIR next president.

What I learned today: Parenting and God

Sometimes vacation days mess me up. For the most part today, I kept thinking today was Sunday. Imagine my surprise and delight when it finally registered in my mind that tomorrow was Tuesday!! :-D  A four day week - that's cool!

We spent our labor day together as a family...in a good and bad sense of  "spent together". Good in the fact that both the hubby and I got to take our children to a park they had been begging to go to. We went and the park had been remodeled. My daughter asked "why would they do that and not talk to anybody???" LOL Apparently, the county needs to discuss important playground matters with her first. smh...

While at the park, our daughter climbed up a ladder. The only way down was either go back down the ladder (which wasn't possible as there were a  line of kids behind her) or hold on to a bar and swing off. She had done something like that before in gymnastics classes - but for some reason, the technique eluded her. We gave instructions to her on how to get down, but she cried, and refused to listen. Out of her fear, she wanted to do it her way, instead of how we told her. We fussed, we encouraged, we threatened...nothing worked. We assured her that if she fell, we were both right there and we would catch her. Other kids were standing either cheering or in suspense. This went on in the hot sun for at least 10 minutes. After all of this, she finally did what we instructed, and got down just as easily as she got up.

After having her go clean her face of tears and snot, we asked "now, was that so hard?" Her response was "No. But I was scared."  That conversation quickly reminded me of a comic strip:

             A man was mountain climbing. Suddenly he lost his grip, and fell. His rope finally stopped him and
             he prayed "Lord. Please help me!" He heard the Lord say "Let go."  He said "No Lord! I'm
             scared!". The Lord said "Let Go." Again, the man wouldn't out of fear. Because it was night fall, it
             got cold. The man started freezing. The next morning, two climbers walked by and noticed a man,
             hanging from a rope, frozen and dead, just two inches from the ground.

Well, after that ordeal, I made her do it again. And we had the exact same situation happen. She refused to listen to us out of fear. The crying and snotting began. She eventually did it though, and a little bit faster than the last time. We sent her to the bathroom to clean her face again, and my husband and I sat and talked. I was steaming mad - mainly because I don't like it when my kids show fear unnecessarily. And two, b/c it seemed as if she didn't trust us. And my husband said "hmmm....I wonder if that's how God feels. When we don't trust Him, and we want to do things our way." Touche dear husband....touche.....

What I learned today: The frustration you feel in parenting your child, is probably the same frustration God feels in parenting you.

What I learned today: Weekend Edition

This weekend was a doozy. On Saturday, the kids got to go with their grandma and aunts to a family reunion. What did my husband I and do with our day of freedom?? Grocery shopping! Oh yes! That time when you can get what you need (and maybe a few wants) without having to say "put that back" "put that down" "Get offa there!" "Girl, leave your brother alone!" "Girl, please go get your brother" "No, we are not getting that" "We already have that at home" "GET DOWN FROM THERE!!"

Yes, shopping is so much easier without them there - although, I do love our time together - it's just not conducive! So yes, the hubby and I spent our alone time reading labels on boxes, finding the organic section in a new store, walking aisles, and leisurely talking and shopping together.

But, we had to stop and ask ourselves....are we lame? Most parents (we assume) would have went off and had an adventure! Some may have gone to another city, gone scuba diving, sailed with dolphins! Well, ok, I'm exaggerating. But still - we're sure that some parents would have had WAY more fun than we did....

What I learned today: Even when we have "time off" and the kids are gone, they still are my husband and my priority. 2. We do need some hobbies. 3.Shopping shouldn't be so stressful.


I want a vacation. A time where partly I an relax, but the majority, I can get up, get out the door and see all there is to see. There are others in my family - and not - that see things totally different. For them, vacation means turning into a vegetable, and if their body permits, get up, dressed and try to make it to something before they close the doors 10minutes before closing time. That's not my idea of vacationing!

What I learned today: For some, vacationing means doing absolutely nothing. While for others, it means doing all that there is humanly possible within 24 hours time!

What I learned today about: Being angry at my husband

This posting is going to have a lot to do with my relationship with my husband.

On yesterday, I was REALLY frustrated. I was explaining my frustration to my husband - it was about the new parking issues at the kids schools and how chaotic it is. We both were going on and on about the faults and inconveniences of it all when out of no where, this lady blows her horn at me. UM, EXCUSE ME!! Don't you know I have had a tough day in traffic already?? Well, if not, lemme show you!! I totally got out of character and did all I could to annoy her while driving. My husband being who he is, tried to calm me down and bring me back to normal, but by that time, I was already off the deep end. So what did I do? I lost it on him. There has only been one time in our eleven years of marriage where we have raised our voices, and now I have done it twice. Him being him, he just sat and distanced himself (which was the best thing - to let me cool down rather than start an argument).

Oh man, I. Felt. HORRIBLE! It's one thing to be upset, but to yell at your husband, your best friend, the one who cares for you, for only trying to calm you down....that's messed up. I had some reconciling to do - and fast. Ephesians 4:26-27 says:

²⁶ “In your anger do not sin”: Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, ²⁷ and do not give the devil a foothold.

Sometimes in our relationships, we go on a quest to be right instead of humble. In my anger, I felt like he didn't have my back by him telling me to calm down. I wanted him to be mad at her WITH me. I felt at the time, like I had the RIGHT to be mad at her AND him. But I wasn't right. So I had to humble myself, ask forgiveness from God, and then ask for forgiveness from my husband. Had I wanted to stay right, there would have been a HUGE rift in our relationship as both or our personalities would have taken over and things could have, and probably would have gotten ugly. My personality lends itself to go into attack mode when I'm angry - his he can get quiet and cold. The devil would have had his foothold. For the sake of our marriage, that could not happen. I apologized - he accepted - we talked and reconciled - and moved on. Today he took off of work to stay home with me and we hung out...laughed, talked, planned, and worked. Easy breezin with no animosity.

What I learned today: It's better to be humble, than right.
The thing that makes relationships work is being relevant and connected to one another;which is the actual definition of relation. 

First day of school blues, Teeth, *ouch*

Today was the first day of school for my kids. I would like to say it was uneventful. Unfortunately I can't.

What I learned today: Be careful with frustration. When not released in a healthy way, you do some very unhealthy things.

Sometimes change is NOT needed, and resistance to change is good.

I need to leave 10 minutes earlier than I have been for the last 2 years.


I watched the RNC tonight. I don't know why, it's the same rhetoric that we hear every 4 years. Promises, and lies are spewed while the audience eats it up. Anyway, my girl Condi spoke tonight. And although I don't agree totally with her politics, I do like her and her tenacity in getting where she is. Here is what I learned from her today:

What I learned today: Ladies!! When you are going to be in the spotlight for an important event - CHECK YOUR TEETH!!

The hubby decided this week to start an exercise routine. I agreed...my dryer keeps shrinking my clothes! ;-)
So we've been walking and letting the kids run the track. Today, my son decided he wanted to challenge me in a race....I accepted.

What I learned today: Don't accept. *ouch*

What I've learned this summer

Well, today is officially the close of the Hall household's summer. It was a great summer too. Unfortunately, we celebrated the going on of a loved one, but even in that, there was happiness. We also got to hang out with family in another State, go places, see things...it was pretty fun. With that being said:

This is what I learned this summer:

Chicago's aquarium is pretty cool. So is Garrett's popcorn!!

My kids are pretty dern athletic. And the best way to get them off the couch is to get them in sports.

Traveling with kids is not that bad if you: know their sleep patterns, have the right tools (electronics, DVDs, games, CDs etc), have food and drinks on hand - that way as long as their eating, they aren't fighting LOL

Summer plans are such stressors - just go with the flow - even if that flow is nothing for the day.

Summer vacation makes you appreciate BACK TO SCHOOL TIME!!!!! :-D

Soooo, I completely forgot to do the rundown of what I learned over the weekend. Pity too because it was some good stuff - like:

There's a Goodwill in Menomonee Falls!!
You can turn an old chest of drawer into a bookshelf!
I LOVE Chinese/Japanese Karate/warrior Action films!

But Today is Monday. A new day to a new week. So, here's what I've learned today:

There's a kids' running club that was going on all summer. Had I known that, my kids woulda been there every Monday! We discovered this when my husband and I decided to "get back in shape" and start a walking routine. We ended up at a track not too far from  us and the kids went along. My son, I've always fancied him as a long distance runner. My daughter - she's very much cheetah like - a quick sprinter, but after that, she's suckin wind.

Anyway, as we were walking and letting the kids run, a gentleman stopped us and pointed out the club that he and his wife were running. There were other kids there with their parents and they were doing drills. He asked if we wanted to join and we were like SURE! The kids loved it. I just wish I would have known about it sooner.

My son runs like a gazelle! He was so graceful and competitive LOL. He continuously lapped the other kids, and even some adults. I gotta foster that talent...I see a possible free ride to college in this! LOL

Incense is used in the occult to summon demonic spiritual powers. I always hated the smell of incense. It literally would make my stomach turn...and the smoke coming from the stick always creeped me out. Now I know why. A friend sent a link that discussed the spiritual aspect of incense. And I must say - I knew it all along.

Have a great night!!

What I Learned Today: Flying Ants and Seafood Paella

Flying Ants

All of my life, I've been accustomed to flying ants. ICK!! They get all in your hair, eyes, clothes, car...everywhere! So, I decided that I would finally look up what flying ants where. I was pretty amazed. 

What I learned today: flying ants are actually ants that are ready to mate. The males die after mating, and the females fly off to start a new colony. They are harmless, but very annoying.

http://www.colostate.edu/Depts/CoopExt/4DMG/Pests/flyant.htm

Good Eats!

Seafood Paella. Two simple words that have stuck with me since 9th grade spanish class with Senora Clark. To hear her describe what Paella was, I just KNEW I needed to make my way to Spain to have some. And that never happened. BUT, TODAY! Yes, today, I went to a lil shop and they had it. And it was so good...just about what I imagined, with the exception of the overcooked shrimp. It really tasted like chicken.

What I learned today: Although it didn't come from Spain, the soup was almost worth waiting for.

What I learned today: About Sharks, ball point pens

So, I was channel surfing tonight after a hard day....yes, as "super" as I am ;-) I do have those from time to time LOL  Anyway, I was going past PBS and they had a special on about the Anatomy of Sharks. You would THINK I have had my fill of sharks since Shark Week just ended on Friday. But this was different. They were actually dissecting the shark.

What I learned today: Sharks' eye lenses are like huge marbles, and they are REALLY hard to cut through. 2. Sharks' livers are about the length of a person, buoyant, and full of dense oil - not air bubbles, which helps them float. 3. Sharks can't digest bones, so they invert their stomachs to get rid of them. 4. Sharks are warm blooded even though they are fish.  

My cousin had a link on FB that showed a man with amazing talent!!  http://vianaarts.deviantart.com/gallery/

What I learned today: Ballpoint Pens can be used for something other than scribbling notes and "doodling" and making "fake middle school tats" 

What I learned today: Character, perseverance, hope

Freshman Orientation

I actually had a blast going to back to Washington High School today. I didn't graduate from there, in fact, I'm a Bay View Redcat to the heart. But, I have a chance to volunteer there. We've been gone from students all summer. So I forgot just how cool it was to sit and interact with the students. Since we aren't paid faculty and staff, we get a chance to kind of just "be" the students "person" <---sorry, that's an old Grey's Anatomy phrase LOL

Well, today was freshman orientation. A time for the students who are incoming freshman get the books, lockers, and schedules early. They get a chance to go around to certain classes and meet teachers - and in our case, meet adults who care about their future, yet have no educational/teaching background. Our presentation was based off of Character, Perseverance, and Hope. We had one recent graduate who talked about hope, one that graduated from WHS in 2001 that talked about Character, and one that graduated just a few years ago and she talked about perseverance. All of our speakers had a sketchy past, but they all made it though it, wiser, and more humble.

The students for the most part were very receptive. Some even asked questions with out prompting. They seem so eager to learn. I love that.

What I learned today: I'm not a paid teacher or staff, but I love these kids like they were my own!

What I learned today: Cycle of Life, Scams

And Life Goes On...

Life is a beautiful thing. It's especially beautiful when it is created by two beautiful people who love each other as husband and wife (not saying that life that's created outside of that realm ISN'T beautiful - let's just make that clear. The statement made was an intro and compliment to two beautiful spirited people...so no nasty grams please)...anyway, I digress...

What I learned today: Mr. and Mrs Loving had a beautiful, healthy, baby boy! The world (as I know it) just increased by 1!!

God, You're a Liar, so I'll Pay My Money to People Instead

That sounds absurd doesn't it??? To me it does. But essentially that is what some "Christians" who don't read the bible for themselves are actually saying by their actions. Ok, let me explain....

I was made aware of a flyer where so called "prophets" (or "profits" - which ever works) were charging $40 per session per person to "teach" people how to "use their prophetic gift". RED FLAG! BIBLE STUDY TIME!!!


"When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all truth. He will not speak on his own but will tell you what he has heard. ***HE*** will tell you about the future." John 16:13<---Underline and bold that last sentence!!!! It's written in RED so that means Jesus said it...THE authoritative "figure" of our faith may I mind you.

This was a promise that was made by Him to the disciples (and us). It foretold of the coming of the Holy Spirit. Now, if we do a quick study of the Holy Spirit just by that verse alone, we see that just ONE of His jobs would be to come and "guide us into all, not some, not just the ones we want to accept, not just the ones our "Pastah's" teach...but ALL truth. Another job would be to tell us about the future. Yes, the Holy Spirit would be able to tell us of things to come. How would we know what this Spirit says is true? Because He doesn't speak based off of opinion, but solely based off of God's Word - which is truth because God can not lie (Numbers 23:19 - Holy Bible).

So, back to our absurd statement that people make true by their actions. By deductive reasoning:

People who take classes like that...get this....don't trust the Holy Spirit!!! Which ultimately means, they would rather trust man (by paying THEM money to "teach" them, in their most fallible way) because they think God is a liar!! At the root, they don't trust God's written Word when it says exactly what John 16:13 says.

So, if you can't trust the very Word that tells us ABOUT God, how can you trust the One it's written about?? If you can't trust, then you think it's false. If you think it's false.....well, you know the rest....

How do you develop your gift if you don't go to expensive seminars? I'm glad you asked! You do exactly what preachers of old did. Remember there were preachers, ministers, Evangelist, prophets etc that couldn't READ let alone have money for a seminar! What did they do? Prayed, spent time communing with God, listening to the Holy Spirit, and reverencing God. Then they were put into the "battle field" when God placed them in positions to USE their gifts. Then they stayed obedient realizing that what they did was for God's glory and not their own...they stayed humble.

What I learned today: Sheep are easily slaughtered when they follow the voice of "another" shepherd.

What I've learned today: Weekend Edition

Soooo, another weekend has passed. Here are a few things I learned this time around....

Schools in booooiiiiii!!

Yep, it's that time of year. Happiness in knowing that in just a few days, my children will be learning in some other place than this house for about a good 7 hours!! I'll miss them, but as my daughter says "Mommy, sometimes the best thing about school is missing you" - now I don't know if that's a diss, or out of the kindness of her heart. But I will say "touche dear daughter...touche!" LOL

My Amazon of a daughter and Paul Bunyan of a son

ALL of the uniforms they had for school are all grown out. Which also means, we have to fight crowds and go on the hunt for more clothes. Well, while doing so, we met a woman and her child. We were right next to each other as our daughters were trying on uniforms. As each child would come out, we'd help critique the clothes, and give suggestions etc. She then says talking to my son "So what grade are you going to? 2nd?" And she didn't crack a smile. My son says "No. I'm going to K-5!" She turns and says to my daughter "Well, you must be going to what...like 4th?" My daughter kind of giggles and says "no, I'll be in 2nd!!"  I look at her daughter and say...well little one, are you excited for your first year? You look like you'll enjoy K-4 (our schools start kindergarten as early as 3 here - such a blessing!) She looks confused and her mother spoke up..."oh no! She'll be in 4th grade this year!"

Keeping on topic. I took this daughter of mine shoe shopping, and this girl wears a size 14 in girls shirts, and a woman's 5 in shoes!!! When did this happen??? WHY is this happening???? smh...

What I learned today: I got some big kids! LOL

A Different Kinda Church

When was the last time your pastor asked the congregation for feedback on how the preaching/teaching was going? What they could improve on, and how? When was the last time you took time OUT OF SERVICE to fill out a survey?.....I'll wait...............oh, I hear crickets from most of you. Well, I'm please to say, that our pastoral team did that today! And it was AWESOME. More so, because I had been feeling like I wasn't getting challenged. I would sometimes leave with a good message, but nothing that made me want to run home, open my bible and delve in head first. My husband and I were talking about this EXACT thing just Saturday night and then this happens....I tell you. God really amazes me and how He works. And while I was grapplin on if I wanted to go to church today, I'm glad I went b/c not only did we get a chance to voice our opinions, but the message today was on point!! Look at all I would have missed if I would have stayed home. God and Me 1 - selfishness and satan 0  :-D

What I learned today: And this lets me further know, I'm in a good place for learning...I love those that I learn and fellowship with *awwwww* :-)

What I've Learned Today about: This house, web design, Jimmy Falon

Our House
The maintenance guy came by today. What he found helped me understand WHY I had SO MANY KEYS to our dern doors! smh...all of our locks were missed matched! Even he was confused as to why. I guess the owners wanted to feel extra safe by confusing any and everyone with a key?

What I learned today: you really only need one set of keys, two max, if your locks are done right.

Web Design
I volunteered to do a website for an organization I work for. I've done my own once before and while I love the challenge, I learned something.

What I learned today: I don't know HOW web developers do this day in and out. I def don't want this as a full time job!

Jimmy Falon
This guy comes up with the craziest skits LOL. This whole "Said it and re-edit" segment is pretty funny!

What I learned today: I have something else to watch him for other than his "Thank You" notes

What I've Learned Today about: Being Lost

Round and Round I Go

I got lost today. Anyone that knows me knows that's not all that uncommon LOL - and actually, I got lost, not once - but TWICE! The first time, I got lost coming out of my own drive way. And my driveway isn't anything like you see in some extravagant multi-million dollar home on MTV Cribs. In fact, it's not even a drive way, it's a parking pad in our backyard! Either way...I got lost. I couldn't remember which way to go...was I supposed to go left down the alley (which would take me to one street) or right (which would take me to another)? I sat and wondered, and unfortunately, my GPS couldn't help me with that one.

Then I got lost when I finally made it out of my alley and down the street to the other "city" I was going to. You would think that after I got lost in my own driveway - well, parking pad, I'd just put the dog gone car in reverse and take my booty on home...but noooooo, not ----->this girl<------- smh. Well, while in the city of Menominee Falls, a city that I frequent (but not as of lately, maybe that's why I got lost?) I totally turned myself around in a quest to find some chicken. Yes, CHICKEN threw me off course!

What I learned today: 1. Sleep deprivation and low blood sugar really does affect your memory more than we think! 2. The GPS is only good for when you are actually driving and lost, not when you are still and confused. 3. Where some "hidden" stores are in Menominee Falls - oh yes, I found them! 4. Kids are no help when they remind you THAT you're lost, but have not suggestions on how to get UNlost *eye roll* 5. Being lost is only good on a full tank of gas and day light (but I learned that a long time ago ;-) )

What I've Learned - Last week and today: Country Education, Good food, and Music

Well it's been about a week since the last post. Unfortunately, we had to make a trip down to North Carolina to lay my husband's grandmother to rest. But! While I was there, I learned some things...like to hear it? Here it goes!

What I learned all last week:

1. Gas will make a rattle snake bite itself to death

2. Tobacco will help a mosquito bite and bee sting from swelling and/or itching

3. You can't beat "country education" - it's far better than anything you can get at an Ivy League school LOL

4. I miss good, fresh, seafood - especially spot and crocker

5. Bojangles still does a number on my tummy - ugh, but it's SO good!

6. The new Best Western in James City, NC is AWESOME!

7. I miss soft water - my skin hadn't felt that good in a long time.

8. Driving 18 hours is tough


What I learned today:

1. Why Arrested Development broke up :-(

2. Their songs from the first album brings back great memories

3. Sharks are pretty intricate creatures

What I've Learned Today About: Rental Cars, Husbands, Peek-a-boo, and the Appendix

Rental Cars

So, we have to make an emergency family run soon back to my husbands home state. In doing so, we decided that flying would be way too expensive and maybe we should rent a car. But then I remembered, I had family that worked for airlines and maybe we could use buddy passes....but we didn't want to be stranded coming back (that has happened before) so we thought maybe we'd fly one way there and drive back. 

What I learned today: It is MORE expensive to drive one way than it is two...smh

My Husband
My husband is a skeptic. I love that about him b/c he examines things and doesn't just go off of emotion like I do. But, at the same time I hate it because he doesn't got off of emotion like I do LOL. Anyway, I have been talking to him about a particular subject and how things are evidenced all around us. It's pretty controversial, and while I would talk about it, he would pretty much take what I said with a grain of salt. Eh, I kept talkin and he kept "listening"....until today :-)

What I learned today: Husbands listen, even when you don't think they are

Peek-a-boo, I See You!

Have you ever just took time to look at things from a different point of view? I mean like literally - not figuratively? I remember my art teacher in middle school used to tell us "Never underestimate looking up"...and he was right. You'd be amazed at what you find out if you just look up...buildings take on a whole new meaning. Well, now I have learned to not only look up...but look down, from high up - amazing what, and WHO you find...

What I learned today: Looking AT something is not the same as looking ON something. There's totally a difference.

Appendix

I was reading a caption on a photo on FB. It was trying to deny the existence of intelligent design by calling it stupid design. In doing so, it asked why some things were created if they served no purpose...thus, making them "stupid". One of the things included in the questions was the appendix in our body.

What I learned today: Your appendix is there for a reason. It's essential for your immune system, more specifically, producing good bacteria in your gut. We don't notice it now days because we now live in a "clean" environment - and things that could wipe out the bacteria in our gut aren't around as much. BUT if they were, our appendix would kick in to replenish the bacteria quickly. (sorry for the long explanation lol)

What I've Learned Today About: Sports, Cooking, Rights, Money

Sports
Again, the Olympics amazes me with what are considered Olympic sports....

What I learned today: Judo and "Marksmanship" are actual competitions


Cooking
The kids had gymnastics today. We usually would go out to eat after because about time they are done, it's too late to come home and cook/eat. But I decided to save some money and do something different. I just didn't feel like standing over a stove and cooking. So guess what I did? I made lasagna in the crock pot! Oh yes baby! And that thang was slammin!!

What I learned today: the crock pot is good for EVERYTHING and I need about THREE of'em! LOL


Rights
I was watching a video where clearly some people's rights were being trampled over. Things could have gone a total different way had they not known their rights. And even though the end result wasn't what they hoped for (intimidation and forced removal) they knew enough that no one could press charges.

What I learned today: knowing your rights before you begin a "movement" benefits you best. Learn and abide.


Mo' Money Mo' Money Mo' Money!
Oh yes! My student loans are getting next to nothing...have mercy! How LONG did that take???? smh...

What I learned today: In a few months, the government won't have anything hangin over my head! I'll be FREE!!! No more "slave to the lender" and that feels good!

What I've Learned Today about: Symbols, Math, Blue Prints, Monsters!

Symbols
Symbols are everywhere. I learned that maybe a few years ago. Up until that point, I really didn't pay yhem much mind. But once I learned about them, I realized, they are everywhere!

What I learned today: Everything isn't always what you think it means. And only if you research, you will know what that means.


Math
Cuboctahedron

What I learned today: What that is, and it's importance




The Blue Print
So I was enjoying the day with the kiddos in a bookstore. I got a call and it was someone calling b/c a friend told them about my career. Well this person was looking for vendors for a health fair that is coming soon and thought that I'd fit perfectly with what they want to do. That was an answered prayer b/c this year I wanted to host a health fair, but didn't move forward with it for other reasons. However, the idea never left my heart.

What I learned today: when your plans match God's plans, remember, it doesn't matter how it happens, it's the results that count.


The Sleep Monster


What I learned today: it comes unannounced and very swiftly.

What I've Learned Today: Math Codes, Lump and Bumps,

Mathematical Codes
So I have been watching a video on things hidden in plain site. And I must say it is very eye opening. It's so true that many deem it to be false. Any way, I learned some stuff from it.

What I've learned today: Many of the world's architecture and land plans are based off of very detailed, yet meaningful math equations, symbols and numerology.

Lumps and Bumps
We got our dog's test results back. He had a nerve sheath tumor. They were able to get it out with narrow margins, but suggest he either have more surgery or start radiation. Which means, we'd have to make the drive to Madison b/c the one hospital here doesn't do that...smh.

What I learned today: I love my big boy dearly. But I don't know if I could spend the moeny for travel to Madison, and still pay for the medication etc. 


Thank God He has healed him...I trust and believe that God lead the doctor through the surgery w/o problems, and I believe he got it all and that my dog will continue to live happy, healthy, and fartin' *shew!*

What I've Learned Today: Drinking Pool Water, Sports, Bible Study, Custard!

Olympics

Something's been bothering me lately. I love watching the swim team. But for the LIFE of me, I couldn't figure out, why the heck these people drink that NASTY pool water. Yeah, I know, chlorine kills the bacteria yada yada yada, but still, just the thought turns my stomach. So why do they do it?? I had to look that up.

What I learned today: Drinking pool water helps with a swimmer's gag reflex.

I turned on the TV and in all my years I never knew that some sports existed as an Olympic sport.

What I learned today: That kayaking is an Olympic sport

My son watches some "unconventional" sports - and after watching, often tries to imitate. He's done that with "Wipeout" - is that a sport? lol, "American Ninja Warrior" - again, same question, Tennis - a little better, and gymnastics. Well, since he's watched the trials in diving, he's been WAITING for it to come back on. He and I had a conversation about it and I realized something.

What I learned today: My son loves watching diving, but don't want to have nothing to do with it lol 

Bible Study

A discussion was going on on FB. It was around the idea of what is the instruction on how to treat believers "in name only". 

What I learned today: The difference between 1Cor 5 and Galatians 6:1 5. 

To say "Amen" is translated as "the Truth" in Hebrew and an agreement before God. 

What I learned today: To say "Amen" to something is to say that it is the "truth" - be careful to who, for what and why you "Amen". 

Custard! and Seeds

We went out for custard today (WI folk don't "do" ice cream...and you ain't had a dairy product until you had custard!) Well, I've always been partial to a place here called Kitts. Some people say they have enough sugar in their custard to give you diabetes off of one lick. Eh, whatever - it's good. But there are some that swear by Leon's. Even presidents have gone there. I went once, wasn't all that impressed, but I'll always give  things another try - you know, maybe they were having an "off" day.

What I learned today: I'd rather have Kitts than Leon's any day.

We have had seeds in our basement for the past, oh I'd say...3 years. Hubby finally decided to plant them.

What I learned today: Seeds do die eventually....

What I've Learned Today: Weekend Edition

Chicago!

So my inlaws are in town. They've never been to the midwest before so we figured, we couldn't let them come this far and not see Chicago. Not because Chicago is so great :-P  But because we "hear" it's pretty cool place to be lol. So we took a quick tour, and I must admit, although I wouldn't want to move there, it really IS an awesome place. The tour we took showed so much rich history, and the buildings were unique and beautiful. The fountain, park, and pier were just full of beauty. So while it's a "rival" city, I must give Chicago two thumbs up. I think I can do that w/o betraying my beloved PACKERS!!

What I learned: Chicago is a beautiful place rich in history. Garret's popcorn certainly lives up to it's reputation. Deep dish pizza from Giodarnos can't be beat - at least not from what I've tasted!

Olympics

I DVRd several events since I wasn't able to watch on Saturday. There's so much talent from these athletes. They train all their lives for an event that lasts approx 2 weeks and some change. That's amazing!

What I learned today: Speed walking is an Olympic sport. There's something to working hard for the prize, even if you've worked all your life and the prize comes in 15 minutes. Even Michael Phelps can be beat. Sometimes you have to give up the most precious thing to attain what you have been called to do.

Church Folk

A lot happened at church today. My husband was called on to give a testimony. I had prayed for him at the beginning of service that God would use him to touch others and that he wouldn't be nervous. Little did I know how God really used him. The bible doesn't lie when it says "And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony; and they loved not their lives unto the death." - Rev. 12:11 And while this is referring to end time prophecy, for me it rings true even now. Many people were encouraged through the words my husband spoke - and I'm sure satan was mad about it. But that's alright because we are already declared more than once as overcomers! You can research for yourself in the Holy Bible and see that I'm not lyin :-)



Something or better yet, someONE else happened. I was in church today, praying for others and doing communion. I saw a "family" come in. And in my "judgmental" mind - they looked "hood". Came in at the last five minutes of church, talkin all loud, having people move out the way to sit in the front etc. Immediately I was like "oh now they need to quit" and I started praying for MYSELF that God would remove that thought I was having, I knew I wasn't right. I then began praying for them. Well, as I finished praying, I was just standing there, and the pastor came and said "Deidra, do you mind going to the other side to help the others pray, I don't think they (those who wanted to be prayed for) can see you over here." I gladly went...and who was waiting for prayer? The woman of that family and her daughters. What did she want prayer for? SALVATION because as she said she had "demons" that she's been trying to get rid of and can't. We went into a long explanation, long story short - I explained that that is something that she couldn't do on her own and that she needed Jesus' help. I explained, that's nothing I could give or do for her (her salvation), she needed to do that for herself, but I would be there with her as she took that step and I would pray for her after. She was scared b/c she "had never done that before" <--that statement in itself is funny to me b/c EVERYONE comes to Christ for the "first time". So I went through some bible verses about salvation and explained it's not as all "holy rollin'" as ppl make it seem...That God wants you to confess to Him that you are a sinner - confess your sins and ask for forgiveness and realize you need Him in your heart and life because clearly you can't do this life alone- accept and believe Him. It was just that simple. And she did - in. her. own. WORDS! That was one of the BEST experiences I've ever had as a "Christian" and I thank God that He let me be a part of it, all while teaching me some lessons.



What I learned today: When you harbor judgement, or ill-will toward a person, you completely remove yourself from being used by God to impact them in the most awesome way possible.


Beware: God convicts, not condemns because conviction shows there's a better way when you humble yourself. Condemnation says "There's no hope for you to get better". 


Allow conviction to happen, you never know what's going to happen when you repent and let your mind be renewed.


Secrets keep us bound. Confession frees our souls. 


You know God is about to do something through you when satan comes in and messes with your thinking, behaviour, attitude, and your spirit. Recognize it for what it is (an attack) don't give in (repent and pray) and move forward (praise God that you know THE better way "I am the way, truth and life - no man comes to the Father but by Me" - Jesus) 


Salvation is easier than what most people make it seem. There's no hocus pocus. And sometimes, you don't get that "holy holy" feeling. Sometimes it's subtle like a gentle breeze - it's not a force, but you know it's there. 


God really wants to teach us some things....we just really have to want to learn :-)

What I've Learned Today about: Strangers, The Olympics, Sleep Typing

Stranger Danger?

Today has been a very long day. It started with the kids playing hookie from summer camp to go to tennis camp. While there, a gentleman sat next to me and in my head I'm thinking "oh here we go". But he was very nice. And I appreciated his company!

What I learned today: It's ok to speak to ppl, you never know who you may rub off on :-)

The Olympics

What I learned today: There are some beautiful people in other countries. There are a LOT of countries lol The Cook Island was named after Cpt James Cook. How often I forget the world is bigger than the US. For the Olympics Taiwan is now Chinese Taipei. You do enough research, you can find out just about anything!

Typing While Sleeping

What I learned today: Don't do it! LOL

What I've Learned Today about: Movies, Cauliflower, Saying NO!, and evil spiritual powers

Movies
I finally got to watch Manchurian Candidate.
What I learned today: Pay attention in movies. Most of the time, they are not made out of fiction!

Cauliflower Colorflower
Cauliflower has four different colors: white, orange, green, and purple. - Go figure!

Just Say No!
What I learned today: When you do things out of obligation, you usually aren't happy when doing it. So for the sake of your sanity and others - just say no!

Spiritual Warfare
There was a person who was an aquaintance of mine. I didn't know him well, but I knew him enough to know that he is a good guy. From what I could tell, he was mild mannered, and truly loved the Lord Jesus. Then one day something changed, well, he changed. It was like he had two different personalities. In one breath he would apologize, and in the next he would attack - very weird. Come to find out, just like in physical life - when one gets attacked in some sort of way, it affects their character and their attitude. Well this guy admitted to going through something spiritually - hence the attacks. In my quiet time, I've come to the conculsion that yes, it was wise to forgive him. Yes, it was wise to be a person he could confide in if needed. And yes, it is wise to pray for him that he and God would fight the battle together instead of him trying to do it on his own.

What I learned today: the true meaning of Ephesians 6:12 - For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places.

What I've learned today about: Skin, Domain Names, My Brain, Milwaukee

Skin Deep
What I learned today (b/c I forgot to write it yesterday):  A dog's brindle fur pattern goes all the way to the skin!


Domain Names
I was searching to find a domain name that I could use to "brand" my blog...

What I learned today: The person who took "whatIlearnedtoday.com" hasn't posted since 2005! grrrr


My Brain
I was reading a post and the poster wrote out the lyrics to "Thriller" by Michael Jackson....I couldn't help it.

What I learned today: Even when I read words to a song, I actually sing them in my head and imagine the video...if I've seen it.


Milwaukee
Apparently, there is a city tour here, and it's heresay that part of that tour has some interesting history...

What I learned today: Milwaukee possibly has an "underground railroad" stop here...interesting!

What I've learned today about: News, Fun and Games, Shackin' Up, and My Dog

News
JoJo (our Boxer) went in for surgery today. And as a good doctor (vet) would do, they gave all the horrible, most sad, and "doom and gloom" scenarios. Then he gave a glimmer of hope - what he has could just be fatty tissue. I think I'll take the fatty tissue for $500 Alex!

What I learned today: News is just that - news. And it can be accepted or rejected....


Fun & Games
My kids are in sports. And in sports, I only really have two rules: Play hard and pay attention. One of my kids needs more encouragement in these rules than the other. Although, one of them was caught slippin' today.

Today, I was working with my daughter after her tennis class (she and my son both play). She has problems with her follow through, and actually putting power behind her swing. Anyone who knows tennis knows that this does not bode well for getting the ball across the net. Anyway, after class, we were making progress and one of the instructors was playing with my son. The whole day, I had been telling my daughter "HIT THE BALL!" "SMACK the ball!" "C'mon, you can do it!". Well, my son was done playing around with the instructor, and wasn't paying attention. And for some reason, my daughter finally caught the vision of what I meant about "HIT THE BALL!" right at the same time my son was walking by - and SMACK!

What I learned today: Everything is all fun and games until someone gets hit in the face with a racket...


Shackin' Up
What I learned today: The Smoke Shack BBQ joint in Milwaukee has THE. BEST. southern food I've tasted since I left NC....


Dog-on-it!
What I learned today: That cyst was HUGE in his leg, but the vet got it all. Now we just pray it will come back benign!