Oops! I did it again

Well, I broke my streak of posting once a month. You knew that would happen. Lol. Oh well, at least you got a break from my sometimes too deep of thoughts. So, here is a short little post to kind of catch you up.

We've been busy. In a different kind of way than your normal going here and there type way. Don't get me wrong, we've still been making our rounds of making functions but for the most part we've been spending a lot of time at home. Which I must say....I LOVE!!!

I've always been told I spread myself too thin and am always on the go so I've been working harder on not doing that to myself and to Jason. I know it has to drive him nuts at times to be on the go so much but he's a trooper and rarely complains. Thank you, honey!! So anyways....It's been a little hard at times to actually say NO to things but I realize it's ok to do that. I think the Lord let me know how okay it was on Sunday when the pastor spoke about this exact subject. I've always struggled with people pleasing and while I know for a fact that you can't please everyone, I still have a hard time with it. I've made up my mind that it's time to let it go. Completely go. It's a work in progress though. So far it's been great. I can't deny I'm actually kind of loving it. Not that I don't want to be around my loved ones but I don't feel the stress of having to rush every where all the time. Not to mention that our home loves us being there. Especially now that we have been doing some fun projects, which I look forward to telling you about on a different post, once we get everything done.

As you all know my job situation is kind of up in the air right now. Which has definitely played a role in us not doing so much too. We've cut back on a lot of outings and such. And are concentrating on finances and getting us into a good spot once my job goes away. As far as the home projects go, they are all on the thrifty side. Which you know I LOVE because it means...less expense! As of right now, they are saying September as the cut off date for my job, which has been pushed back a bit from the original date. Can't say I mind as that means I will have a job for a bit longer than I thought. Word around the office is that there are some posititions that are going to become available soon. I think I may try for one of them so wish me luck! Either way, I know God will lead me to where I am suppose to be next so this girl is feeling no pressure! Not to mention we've been there done that and He was always with us and never let us go without.

I want to sincerely thank all of our famiy and friends who continue to keep us in their thoughts and prayers. We love you guys!

Until next time!

Time....Where did you go?!?

Time
By Chantal Kreviazuk

Time, where did you go?
Why did you leave me here alone?
Wait, don’t go so fast.
I’m missing the moments as they pass.
Now I’ve looked in the mirror and the worlds getting clearer.
So wait for me this time.
I’m down I’m down on my knees.
I’m begging for all your sympathy.
But you (I’m just an illusion).
You don’t seem to care (I wish that I could).
You humble people everywhere (I don’t mean to hurt you).
Now I’ve looked in the mirror and the worlds getting clearer.
I’ll take what you give me.
Please know that I’m learning.
So wait for me this time.
I should’ve know better.
I shouldn’t have wasted those days.
And afternoons and mornings.
I threw them all away.
Now this is my time.
I’m going to make this moment mine (I shouldn’t have wasted those days).
I’ll take what you give me.
Please know that I’m learning.
I’ve looked in the mirror.
My world’s getting clearer.
So wait for me this time

Time, where did you go is right!!!
The above is a song and if you have never heard it, I highly suggest you do. I absolutely love Chantal Kreviazuk. I love her so much that mine and Jason's first dance was to her song "Feels like home" and my daddy/daughter song was "In This Life"...both are songs with very deep lyrics. Imagine that, me and sentimental stuff. :)

Music soothes my soul. It's the one of the most important things in life to me. It gives me the chance to reflect, feel, let loose and relax. I don't know what I would do without it.

Onto my "Time" post.... The song time has recently stuck to me. While I try to savour every moment in my life, I feel like in a lot of ways, time has gotten away from me. I look at where I am now in life and it literaly makes me drop to my knees with gratitude, happiness and sadness all at the same time. As with everyone, my life hasn't been perfect but when I look back at everything I can't help but think that it was....perfect that is.

I wish more than anything that my memory was as good as Jason's. He has a memory unlike any other. It makes me envy him because I don't have that. Thank goodness I have him to help me with that now. He will be able to take me back for years to come! I have a lot of memories of when I was growing up. Sure they aren't all the best of memories but that's beside the point. The point is in all of those things, there were great memories, the kind that I choose to carry forward with me. Like living in Mexico and spending lots of time with our family and my abuelita's cooking. Then there is the time my family took a trip to Guadalajara and San Juan De Los Lagos. I think I was maybe 5 or so when we went. I can't remember every detail of that trip but I know it was a great one. There are memories of living in Perrynton, TX and of course a million and one memories of what I consider my hometown, Granbury. That's the place I lived most of my life. So much went on in that little town and due to its size, everyone knew almost everyone. I miss living there but I don't regret moving to Arlington. I have no idea where I would be if I had stayed back there. Nor do I really care to know. I look at my life and I can't help but feel that I am exactly where the good Lord wants me to be. Duh!

There are a lot of things I wish I could go back and not necessarily change but maybe handled different. I would of spend more time getting to know my grandparents rather than worrying about what friend I was going to play with that day. My grandparents (on my mother's side) passed away when I was only 10. My granfather (on my dad's side) died when I was much younger and my grandmother passed just a couple of years ago. If I had the time to take back, Lord knows I would use some to go back and spend with them. I never really knew them. I know they loved me to pieces. I just wish I could still feel it. Growing up in different countries makes that a little hard to do but still, I should of tried harder. I've been very blessed in having met Jason. His grandparents, "Pop" and "Betty" kind of filled that void in a way. Pop loved me like I was his own until the day he died. Betty still continues to do the same. Never in my life did I imagine that they would take me in the way they had/have. I like to think that in a way my real grandparents provided me the love I missed from them, through them. Crazy, I'm sure but I refuse to think otherwise! I would also go back and do the same with other family and friends. With hectic lives and schedule it's hard sometimes to work around everyone and get togehter but still, I think...try harder. I wish there was a way for me to put everyone that I love into one place and spend every minute of every day with them. There's not and it makes me sad. I get the "busy body" thing all the time, from both family and fiends. You see, I'm always on the go. I'm always hanging out with different folks and running around trying to make sure I see happy faces. It makes me happy to do so. I suppose that's just my nature. I love seeing shiny happy people. Lol.Ok, so sometimes I spread myself too thin but I think about time and I panic knowing I am running out of it. It's hard to think about but its reality.

In life, there are joyous occasions and some very sad and tragic as well. The last couple of weeks I've spend in a bit of a slump, if you will. There are so many friends and family dealing with sadness that I've caught myself asking why more than ever. In recent days I found out about a classmate who is fighting for his life. I wasn't really close to him nor do I know him as well as my closest friends but the pain is, I think, no different. Growing up in a small community, you can't help but feel everything that goes on back there. I think so anyways. Day in and day out I think about this little family of three. The daddy who is struggling to hold on and the mommy who has to explain to her little son that his daddy has to leave. I can't even begin to imagine how she must feel. My heart just breaks for them and at times I have to fight to hold back the tears. In a way I feel like I have become obsessed in thinking of them. I awake thinking of them, go through my day thinking of them and go to bed and thinking of them. All day long I am praying for them too. I can't tell you why but it's the truth. That doesn't go to say that I have forgotten about eveyrone else. If you ask God, I'm sure He would tell you otherwise. I think sometimes I take up all of His time with all my prayer requests that I barely leave room for anyone else's. All day long you see me bowing my head or closing my eyes. It is during those times that I am praying. Lord knows I pray about everything but I have too, I feel like time will get away from me if I don't. Not only that but I think praying keeps me grounded and never the less, it gives me peace.

Oh I have to share this....Last night I got a friend request from someone who holds a special place in my heart. When I saw her name I was filled with emotion and the memories came rushing back. Just like it was yesterday. The little sister of a dear friend who had passed and a friend and I had been looking for had found me on facebook. Have I mentioned how much I love facebook? I was so excited to see how much she had changed and the life she is living. Definitely gave me a happy feeling. I can't wait to catch up with her more and get caugh up on the time that has passed. You can't go back in time but you can definitely make up for it, right?

Anyways, I can't believe how things are happening at such an incredible pace. I feel like I barely have time to wrap my mind around it all. My nieces and nephews are all growing so quickly, My little brother is graduating highschool, my youngest nephew is about to be two and all my friends kids are growing right before my very eyes. I think you see how fast time quickly goes when you see the next generation coming to life. I have never in my life felt so old! I love it though because I'm blessed enough to see it all happening, Thank you, Jesus.

While the little ones are racing to grow up, I'm going to take the time to cherish every little thing I possibly can. I'm sure that later in life, they will say the same

"What I wouldn't do to have some time back!"

As always, keep on a dreaming!
Cecilia

A Little Catching Up

Well, It's been a little while since I last wrote but since it's still the month of March I figured I would get a post in to keep my monthly post deal going. A lot has been going on in our household and lives. There is nothing that will slow us down and take away from us enjoying life. The Sunday after my last post was Super Bowl Sunday. Jason of course had to work so I was left at home to fend for myself. Originally it started as a joke but quickly turned into a reality. Super Bowl XLV was held in my hood so my friend Karla (shout out!) and I decided we would "crash" some tailgate parties. I mean, we dang sure couldn't afford the crazy expensive tickets to actually go to the game! We decided to start the day off with a little lunch in Lincoln square, which happens to be right smack in the middle of the area we wanted to hit up. We kinda cheated our way to FREE parking by altering our tab just a bit. Hey, you gotta get in where you can fit in! We were NOT about to pay some of the stupid parking charges these people were paying. I mean, really? $350.00...NO GRACIAS! We then ventured into the sea of people after that. I must say while I was a tad bit nervous, it was nice to see such a vast variety of folks coming together and having a grand old time. I can't deny, I felt a little cool being out in the midst of it. It was just a cool vibe and nice to see just how far people would go to show their team spirit. We didn't run into any celebrities like we had hoped but it was still nice to be in the vicinity of them. Oh and I hear some pretty cool news were received this day too. Maybe we can share those later.

Here are a few pics from that day.

Karla and I in front of "Jerry's World!" Crazy fun tailgating going on! Another pretty cool thing that happened was that I accomplished what I sat out to do. Remember that running thing I started doing? Yep, my first big goal was to complete the Cowtown 5K and I DID IT! Actually, the hubster and I both did. I was so proud of my man for going at this with no training and finishing. I can't tell you how good it made me feel to cross that finish line. Pretty darn proud. I need to get out and do a few more. Maybe then I can consider myself a runner. In the meantime, here is a pic of me crossing the finish line. I'm the one in the white T just past the finish line. GO ME!!! Lot's of good things, huh? Well, here come more. We recently found out about a little blessing coming our way. Well....not "OUR" way but our way. In the way of a nice or nephew. Sorry if I got you all a little excited for a second. We are still hopeful that post will come later. Back to the story. My brother John and his beautiful wife, Kerry. Oh yes, I said wife. They recently tied the knot by the way. ;) Anyways, John and Kerry gave us the news that they are expecting their first child. I can't even begin to express just how happy we are for these two. Just as we are for everyone who gets the news but a little bit more knowing they are part of our immediate family. Come September our family will be blessed with another little bundle of joy. We can't wait to see what they will be having. We hope to find out the gender in the coming weeks. I can't wait because that means....SHOPPING! What a precious and might I add BEAUTIFUL baby he or she will be. I can't wait to hold him or her in my arms. Until then, here is a little sneak peek at the precious little soul! FINALLY..... Third time's a charm, right? After being canceled not once but twice....my NYC trip happened! It was a business trip so you can imagine how busy it was but I still managed to get some fun in. Not to mention that with all the fun I had, my trip only cost me $22.68. Yes, you read that right. I did say business trip, member? My flight, hotel, food and drinks were all complimentary. Well, I like to think so anyways, I did put in some long days to make up for it. Since we pulled some long days at the office, we didn't really get to go out much for anything other than dinner. Except for the last day before we were due to fly back. We made a trip to Long Island and Manhattan. I was in love! Yes, those I love NY t-shirts are true because you leave there in love. I must say that I am anxious to get back there. Since we only got one day to hit the city, I didn't get too much sight seeing in. So, I want to eventually go back and visit some more places of interest, i.e. statue of liberty and ground zero. The day we hit "midtown"....I say midtown because they are quick to correct you on the whole "downtown" thing. In TX we assume all cities have "downtown" areas. I mean even the little towns have "downtown" areas where the "square" or center of town is. In NY there is "Uptown" "Midtown" and "Downtown"...Uptown is north of town basically. North of Central Park where you have the Upper East/West Side. If you watch Gossip Girl, that's the area you are in while watching that show. Midtown is south of Central Park and referred to as Manhattan. There you will find Times Square and the theater district. You know, Radio City Music Hall, Rockefeller Center and NBC news. Downtown is located far south. There is where Ground Zero, Greenwhich Villa and Chinatown are all located. Gives you a little bit of an idea of how exactly NY is broken up. So, don't make the mistake of calling it all "downtown" or you will stand like me....corrected!

On with my trip....

I must say I thought I had seen a lot of people before. BOY! Was I ever so wrong. Never in my life had I seen such a sea of people at one time, all the time. Not to mention that they move 90 to nothing. I felt like I had to jog just to keep up with everyone's pace. I couldn't care less though, I was in a place that I never imagined I would ever be at. I was in...NOO YOIK CITAY!!! It was a tad bit overwhelming to see people fly their way around like time would never be on their side. I ran out of breath just watching them. It definitely made me appreciate the place I call "the city" back home. I mean I only THOUGHT things were much faster here at home. Compared to NYC, the country I grew up in and tend to retreat to from time to time definitely moves at snail pace! So back to the fast paced city. It happened to be Wednesday night when we ventured to midtown and also happened to be Ash Wednesday. If you don't know what Ash Wednesday is, you can learn more about it here. It's a big deal for us Catholics and the start of a very meaningful time. As you may or may not recall, the hubster and I were blessed to have taken the sacrament of Holy Matrimony at St. Patrick's Cathedral in fort worth TX. Here is a pic of the gorgeous Cathedral we were married at. The inside is absolutely AMAZING!I knew before I ever visited NYC that if I ever got the chance to go, one of the places I would make sure to visit was St. Patrick's Cathedral. I mean of course it would have meant a million times more if I Jason could have been with me, but was still pretty amazing. Did I mention it was Ash Wednesday when I was there? Yep, so guess who got her ashes at one of the most beyond AMAZING Cathedrals? That would be ME! I was in complete awe when I walked upon the site. Never in my life did I imagine it would be even more beautiful than the pictures. There I stood looking up at such a Holy and sacred masterpiece. I think time stood still for a minute while I stood there because I remember people just swooshing past me as I sat there and stared. I could go into Catholicism and what it means to me but that would take a whole other post. Not sure about you guys but stepping into a Catholic church is different to me than stepping into other churches. There is just a peace and serene feeling each time I step in one. I feel such a Holy presence. Hard to explain but I do. Moving on.... I was ecstatic that I was able to be there on such a meaningful day and it made my trip that much more SUPERB! Here are some shots I took..... BEYOND AMAZING!!!

Outside of St. Patrick's Cathedral The ceiling. The detail is exquisite! The rest of the Midtown visit was spent doing a quick sightseeing tour. We walked by a few of the key spots and I managed to snag some shots there. We had a pretty unique dinner that evening. We stopped at the Stardust Diner to get our grub on. All of you Amercian Idol watchers may remember this spot in one of the segments before Hollywood. One of the kids there auditioned and made it to Hollywood. She is now back at the Diner. The diner is a 1950's setting and all the waitstaff sings karaoke the whole time. Most would be turned off a the thought of someone singing karaoke while you're having dinner but it was pretty awesome for me. I swear I should have lived in the 1950's. It's an era I find a special bond to. Not sure why but I do. I would give anything to wear those cute clothes and drive my ultimate dream car. A 1954 Chevy. I swear one day I will have one! Bet you didn't know that little fact about me, huh? I have a hidden soul inside of me and she is from the 50's. I just haven't let her come out too much. Maybe one day! ;) Here are more pics from my trip.

Long Island with Manhattan Skyline behind me.

NBC News Rockefeller Center Times Square

I hope this post hasn't bored y'all too much. Maybe I was in some way shape or form able to whisk you to New York for a bit.

Until next time....

Dream and it will come true!!!

Lesson from Madelynn

My last post "Bring on 2011" was what I thought would be a good kick start to the New Year. Surely after starting last year on the wrong foot, this year was bound to be better, Right? Not so sure. We are barely into the second month of this year and I can hardly wrap my mind around what has already happened. So many things have been going on with family and friends that make me really sad. I am hopeful though, that the rest of the year will bring everyone good things. I've decided to take one of these particular events as my main focus for this post and take it as a very special lesson. A lesson that will forever be with me.

Rewind to January 1, 2011. Madelynn Rein Whittaker was born. I was so excited about this sweet baby girl. You see, my TTC (trying to conceive) buddy, Michelle had just given birth to a child she never thought she would see. She too had experienced infertility issues, thus drawing us closer together. We shared our grief, excitement, hope and disappointment throughout our treatments. Because being in that position, we knew first hand just how the other felt. I'll never forget when she told me she was pregnant. She was so excited to share the news and I of course shed a tear or two of joy. Joy because she had been blessed with the most amazing gift, the one we were both so eager to receive. I was glad that she not once hesitated in telling me. It's hard to be in a position like the one I'm in because people automatically assume they know how you will handle the news. They assume you will get upset, mad, maybe jealous and God knows what else. I mean, of course I want that for myself but I would never in my life see such a blessing as something that I would resent. I find it more hurtful to find that people think this is how I feel. I mean, infertility isn't exactly a walk in the park, but it also isn't what makes me. I hope people will understand what I am trying to say. Anyways, I digress....

Madelynn was the most perfect baby, as we all are, considering God created us in his perfect image. I wasn't in town the day she was born so I didn't get to see her for a couple of weeks. Never in my life did I imagine what this child would teach me the moment I met her. After coming into this world perfectly healthy and beautiful, Madelynn took a turn for the worst. She became very ill within days of going home. So, when I finally got to meet her she was back in the hospital. She was so sick that she was put in the NICU. When I got the notice from Michelle, I got up to the hospital as soon as I could. I got up there as quickly as I could, not only because a friend was in need but because I felt a calling to be there. I'm sure people probably think I'm crazy but I've really been trying to listen and do what the good Lord asks of me. Throughout being there for Michelle, I got lots of compliments and kind words and at times, I wasn't sure how to take them. I mean, I wasn't doing this for show or to get any type of praise, I was simply doing what felt right in my heart. I can honestly say that I am so very glad I did what I did. Anyways, Michelle allowed me to go back and visit Madelynn when I got to the hospital. She was even more beautiful than in the pictures. She had the cutest little nose and a head full of hair. I stood there and held her little hand. I couldn't hold her because she was hooked up to all kinds of gadgets which made me sad to see. I introduced myself to her and even made a little small talk. I could see how much she was struggling to even breathe and it broke my heart in a million pieces, BUT I was not about to reveal my sadness. I had to be strong for her mommy. I must admit. Seeing a parent in such desperation is enough to make you want to break down right then and there, but I didn't. Before I entered the hospital, I prayed that God would give me the strength Michelle needed. If you know me, you know I am a very sentimental person. I mean, I cry during commercials! I feel God definitely provided me with the strength I needed. Madelynn was in the hospital a total of 11 days. I would get up to see them as often as I could, provided I didn't overwhelm them. I always made sure to ask and not just show up since there was so much going on. I don't know that my visits made Michelle feel any better but I hope and pray that maybe they did comfort her, if even the slightest bit. I have to add, I am beside myself at how strong Michelle was through all this. Sure, I saw her break down a few times but over all, she had the strength of an entire army. She absolutely amazed me! Early on in her illness, Madelynn experienced liver failure and eventually there was no brain function. The doctors gave Madelynn's mommy and daddy the horrible news that there was no hope. This sweet baby girl lost her life on January 22, 2011. Although Madelynn was only here for a short time, I feel she taught me so much and I am forever grateful. The main thing we are always reminded of after a loss is to never take anyone for granted. So of course I am working even harder on that.

One very important lesson that Madelynn taught me was that....

"Things don't happen to us, they happen for us!"

I'll try to explain what I mean by telling you a few things that have been going on. I hope you all will understand what the above means to me. Many of you do not know this as I have not really shared with anyone but during Madelynn's hospital stay; I learned that my job would not be available to me after the next 4-6 months. I've been with the same company for 6 years so it kind of caught me off guard. For a lot of people, this would be enough to send them over the edge. I suppose for a split second I was disappointed and even thought "what am I going to do now?".....While listening to what the big boss had to say, I quickly faded into my deep thoughts. I remembered the 8 months Jason spent without a job and how strong my faith became along with our relationship. By the grace of God, we made it and not once did we budge or break. So, I made the decision that I wasn't going to let it happen this time either. I really felt at peace at that moment because I know and believe that..... if He brings me to it, He will see me through it. While sitting there, I also remembered Madelynn and her family. How quickly we forget our troubles when we are reminded of how much worse things can be. I realized right then and there that things were not happening to me but for me. I thought...."I have absolutely nothing to be scared about or worried about! If not having a job is all I have to worry about, I am beyond blessed!" Sure, it is mine and my husband's livelihood but to me, a job is way less important than living in the moment. To me, living in the moment is to truly enjoy life and live it as it should be. In the end, my job isn't going to be what saves me and definitely won't be what makes ME!

Here comes tale numero dos. As you all know, just recently, Jason accepted a position with UPRR (you can read about that in my previous post if you aren't up to date). How quickly things change. When Jason first started this job, our main focus was our future and retirement. We have always strived to be in a good financial position too. This can be very hard now days but we still push for it. Jason took the RR job thinking future wise and at the time we believed it was the best decision for us. As I mentioned in my previous post, his old job was pretty hesitant to let him go. They really valued Jason and his work ethics. Jason is a very hard worker and ALWAYS shows it. He gets to work early.....very early, like an hour to an hour and a half early....crazy, I know! That's just him. He works late if he has to and sometimes, he even asks too many questions. I mean, you don't learn if you don't ask, right? Lord knows he does! He always goes above and beyond at work. It's something he is good at. I think he got that from his grandfather. He and his grandmother, Betty, were both major over achievers and they have everything to show for it. Anyways, since having left MS, Jason has been contacted pretty regularly by MS. Of course they want him back; they have made that very clear. So, the time has come to announce that he is going back! While Jason valued the short time he has spent at the railroad, he realizes that his heart is with the oil industry. I think those who really know Jason and talk to him, can see just how much he loves it. I mean, he talks about it constantly, almost kind of annoying at times. I know people will probably read this or hear about it and think...."What the heck is he thinking?!?"......Remember that whole living in the moment bit? Yep, that's what he is doing...exactly what makes him happy. Not only that, he couldn't pass up the offer and I support him 150%!! Right now, it is what we feel will benefit us. That's not to say that it is the absolute right decision, but it is the best decision for us now. The railroad was very understanding of the position Jason was in and even gave him some good advice, some UPRR memorabilia and some very kind words. So, we remain positive that this is a good decision. By the way, I really need to work on leaving a good impression. My husband has MASTERED it! I can't say I am surprised though.
He makes me so darn proud!!!

Madelynn's lesson continued......
I personally feel that all these events have happend for me (us), not to me (us). In life, we all deal with things that we often times see as bad things. If we take the time to see what comes out of those so called "bad" things, we will see the Beauty, the Lessons and maybe even the Meaning in them.

#1 - Losing Madelynn was not what any of us envisioned or would have ever wanted. It was very tragic and very sad. In her passing, I have gained some great friendships and a strength I didn't really think I had. During all this, I cried like I hadn't cried in years but it felt so good! I feel she gave me a release I had been needing for quite sometime. I was able to let go of so many things I had been holding in. I will forever carry that precious baby and the the things she has taught me and provided for me.

#2 - Losing my job is not what I want but unfortunately, I can't change that. I have faith that when this does go through, that God has something better in store for me. He's always provided me (us) with better in the past, so, I know He will do the same this time. I'll just wait and see what that is.
#3 - Jason's quick job change wasn't what we wanted to happen but it has. I mean, in a way we kind of worried about the way our decision would be thought of; but we quickly realized that we are making this decision for us and nobody else.

Remember my post about "God's perfect timing"....Well, this is all His doing. So, we know we are exactly where we are suppose to be.

The above are all things that can make us angry and resentful and even drive us to question God. I chose to do the opposite. I believe these things have happened, to help me become an even better person. For example....
*I am now even more thankful each morning I am able to rise out of bed. Many people can't say that so I try to remember to let God know just how thankful I am.
*I now start every prayer with thanking God first and blessing Him, before I ask of Him. He is the ultimate provider so why not thank and praise him first?
*I am taking steps towards bettering and mending relationships I value. Forgiveness is essential and a wonderful release.
*I am learning to express (even more) how I feel and to let people know just how much I care and love them, even if they think I'm being sappy. I love that about myself! :)
*I'm also trying to live a life of peace as best I can. Worry doesn't solve anything, so why bother with it?
Soooo.....Basically.........

I am living life as it should be and trying to remember to enjoy every second of every day because.....I may never get that second back.

The next time something happens to you, big or small, good or bad; watch and listen. There is Beauty, a Lesson and Meaning behind EVERYTHING.

Sorry if this is all over the place but I wanted to get it all out. I hope you are still reading!

As always, keep dreaming......

This post is dedicated to the memory of

MADELYNN REIN WHITTAKER

01.01.11 - 01.22.11

Mommy & Madelynn

May you rest in peace, sweet angel. Thank you for coming into my life and giving me the best gift I could ever have, a lesson in life. I love you and you will ALWAYS be in my heart, as you will be in many others. I promise to be there for your mommy as much as I can and whenever I can. As you very well know, she is one strong woman and she will continue to live her life for you. I know she is so proud to have you as her little angel.

Until we meet again, little one.

~Cecilia~

Bring It 2011!!

Well, 2010 is gone and 2011 is here. Today is my first day back at work after being gone for almost two weeks. I have to admit I really thought those two weeks would fly by but they didn't. I told myself that I would enjoy every minute of being on my break and Lord knows I did. It was busy with so much going on but that didn't phase me. It even got to a point where I didn't know what day it was and it was pure GREATNESS! Christmas was great with the family. I got so many nice things and have really enjoyed using my gift cards. I tend to stear clear of the mall during the holidays because of the craziness that goes on there but I managed to get in, get what I went for and got out safely. Jason was off quite a bit too so it was really nice getting to spend time with him and of course my Baylee girl. She is just a joy to be around! Here are some Christmas event pics and our Christmas card.

Our Christmas card picture we took ourselves and our completed card below.


Annual Friend's Christmas Party

Prairie Lights with the family!


While I was off, I took advantage of my break and decided to take my new "running" venture a bit more serious. I had recently started doing the couch to 5 k program to help take my focus off the whole infertility issue. I had to find something to help get me in a better state of mind. Something that would push me, help me to release tension and best of all, help me get to a healthier state. I started to really track my running and even made it public on Christmas Day. I debated telling anyone or posting anything on facebook about it because I was afraid that I would once again give up. Things changed when I was given the advice of putting myself out there. My friend Jennifer who is a SUPER runner told me that making it public would help me to hold myself accountable and thus pushing me to do better and stay motivated. She was right! Since having gone public about my new venture, I have wanted to do better each time and posting it makes me feel so good about myself because I have done it. People notice it too and their kind and motivating words are just the sweetest. Not to mention, they help me stay on track. My first goal is to tackle the Cowtown 5K. I would love to say that I am doing the marathon but I have to take baby steps. I am hopeful that I will continue to stick with this venture as it has been a very satisfying one. Who knows maybe next year, I can say I am tackling the Cowtown Marathon! BTW, I can't express the importance of getting fitted for running shoes if you are looking to start running. That was my first step and it makes a HUGE difference. I love my new kicks!


Moving on.

My birthday was a complete success this year. I got tons of sweet comments on facebook, lots of phone calls and not to mention the texts. I spent the day doing some shopping and lunch with my friend Jannet. She treated me to some authentic treats at Paleteria Michoacana and my oh my were they DELISH! It reminded me of being at my grandparents house in Mexico. I sure miss it there. That evening we had dinner with mine and Jason's family. It was a nice quiet evening after my busy day. The next evening I invited friends to meet me for dinner and was pleasantly surprised at the attendance. Twenty two of my closest friends showed up to celebrate with me and I just couldn't believe it. It's hard to expect everyone to show with the hustle and bustle so I usually don't expect much. I was overwhelmed in the best way to see everyone there. After dinner a few of us went out for a little while and that was very fun too. Gosh, I'm so blessed to have such great friends!

New Year's Eve was a success too. We knew we wanted a low key evening so we ended up going to the farm and mentioned our plans to a few friends. The Bozeman's and Bright's came out and we had a great time. We all enjoyed being outdoors and exploring the pastures. While waiting for the twelve o'clock hour to come, the boys hung out by the fire with Betty, the kids were just running around having a good time and us girls enjoyed some board games. Great New Year's Eve indeed!!!

DREAM BIG IN 2011!!! Blessings, Cecilia