Mercer Mania

What Amazing Love

2012-01-19T15:19:00.000-08:00

JAYS JUMP

2012-01-17T17:18:00.000-08:00

MY JUMP

2012-01-17T17:14:00.000-08:00

YOU DA ONE

2011-12-27T14:45:00.001-08:00

These girls have such raw talent. Im a fan, love that harmony!

Beautiful

2011-12-19T08:09:00.001-08:00

Paul Newman's letter to his wife on their wedding day: “ Happiness in marriage is not something that just happens. A good marriage must be created. In the Art of Marriage, the little things are the big things. It is never being too old to hold hands. It is remembering to say ‘I love you’ at least once a day. It is never going to sleep angry. It is at no time taking the other for granted; the courtship should not end with the honeymoon; it should continue through all the years. It is having a mutual sense of values and common objectives. It is standing together facing the world. It is forming a circle of love that gathers in the whole family. It is doing things for each other, not in the attitude of duty or sacrifice, but in the spirit of joy. It is speaking words of appreciation and demonstrating gratitude in thoughtful ways. It is not expecting the husband to wear a halo or the wife to have the wings of an angel. It is not looking for perfection in each other. It is cultivating flexibility, patience, understanding and a sense of humor. It is having the capacity to forgive and forget. It is giving each other an atmosphere in which each can grow. It is finding rooms for things of the spirit. It is a common search for the good and the beautiful. It is establishing a relationship in which the independence is equal, dependence is mutual and obligation is reciprocal. It is not only marrying the right partner, it is being the right partner."

30 Things To Stop Doing To Yourself

2011-12-17T08:29:00.000-08:00

I saw this on my friend Deanna's FB and loved it it. Some good thoughts for starting the new year.

As Maria Robinson once said, “Nobody can go back and start a new beginning, but anyone can start today and make a new ending.” Nothing could be closer to the truth. But before you can begin this process of transformation you have to stop doing the things that have been holding you back.

Here are some ideas to get you started:

Stop spending time with the wrong people. – Life is too short to spend time with people who suck the happiness out of you. If someone wants you in their life, they’ll make room for you. You shouldn’t have to fight for a spot. Never, ever insist yourself to someone who continuously overlooks your worth. And remember, it’s not the people that stand by your side when you’re at your best, but the ones who stand beside you when you’re at your worst that are your true friends.
Stop running from your problems. – Face them head on. No, it won’t be easy. There is no person in the world capable of flawlessly handling every punch thrown at them. We aren’t supposed to be able to instantly solve problems. That’s not how we’re made. In fact, we’re made to get upset, sad, hurt, stumble and fall. Because that’s the whole purpose of living – to face problems, learn, adapt, and solve them over the course of time. This is what ultimately molds us into the person we become.
Stop lying to yourself. – You can lie to anyone else in the world, but you can’t lie to yourself. Our lives improve only when we take chances, and the first and most difficult chance we can take is to be honest with ourselves. Read The Road Less Traveled.
Stop putting your own needs on the back burner. – The most painful thing is losing yourself in the process of loving someone too much, and forgetting that you are special too. Yes, help others; but help yourself too. If there was ever a moment to follow your passion and do something that matters to you, that moment is now.
Stop trying to be someone you’re not. – One of the greatest challenges in life is being yourself in a world that’s trying to make you like everyone else. Someone will always be prettier, someone will always be smarter, someone will always be younger, but they will never be you. Don’t change so people will like you. Be yourself and the right people will love the real you.
Stop trying to hold onto the past. – You can’t start the next chapter of your life if you keep re-reading your last one.
Stop being scared to make a mistake. – Doing something and getting it wrong is at least ten times more productive than doing nothing. Every success has a trail of failures behind it, and every failure is leading towards success. You end up regretting the things you did NOT do far more than the things you did.
Stop berating yourself for old mistakes. – We may love the wrong person and cry about the wrong things, but no matter how things go wrong, one thing is for sure, mistakes help us find the person and things that are right for us. We all make mistakes, have struggles, and even regret things in our past. But you are not your mistakes, you are not your struggles, and you are here NOW with the power to shape your day and your future. Every single thing that has ever happened in your life is preparing you for a moment that is yet to come.
Stop trying to buy happiness. – Many of the things we desire are expensive. But the truth is, the things that really satisfy us are totally free – love, laughter and working on our passions.
Stop exclusively looking to others for happiness. – If you’re not happy with who you are on the inside, you won’t be happy in a long-term relationship with anyone else either. You have to create stability in your own life first before you can share it with someone else. Read Stumbling on Happiness.
Stop being idle. – Don’t think too much or you’ll create a problem that wasn’t even there in the first place. Evaluate situations and take decisive action. You cannot change what you refuse to confront. Making progress involves risk. Period! You can’t make it to second base with your foot on first.
Stop thinking you’re not ready. – Nobody ever feels 100% ready when an opportunity arises. Because most great opportunities in life force us to grow beyond our comfort zones, which means we won’t feel totally comfortable at first.
Stop getting involved in relationships for the wrong reasons. – Relationships must be chosen wisely. It’s better to be alone than to be in bad company. There’s no need to rush. If something is meant to be, it will happen – in the right time, with the right person, and for the best reason. Fall in love when you’re ready, not when you’re lonely.
Stop rejecting new relationships just because old ones didn’t work. – In life you’ll realize that there is a purpose for everyone you meet. Some will test you, some will use you and some will teach you. But most importantly, some will bring out the best in you.
Stop trying to compete against everyone else. – Don’t worry about what others doing better than you. Concentrate on beating your own records every day. Success is a battle between YOU and YOURSELF only.
Stop being jealous of others. – Jealousy is the art of counting someone else’s blessings instead of your own. Ask yourself this: “What’s something I have that everyone wants?”
Stop complaining and feeling sorry for yourself. – Life’s curveballs are thrown for a reason – to shift your path in a direction that is meant for you. You may not see or understand everything the moment it happens, and it may be tough. But reflect back on those negative curveballs thrown at you in the past. You’ll often see that eventually they led you to a better place, person, state of mind, or situation. So smile! Let everyone know that today you are a lot stronger than you were yesterday, and you will be.
Stop holding grudges. – Don’t live your life with hate in your heart. You will end up hurting yourself more than the people you hate. Forgiveness is not saying, “What you did to me is okay.” It is saying, “I’m not going to let what you did to me ruin my happiness forever.” Forgiveness is the answer… let go, find peace, liberate yourself! And remember, forgiveness is not just for other people, it’s for you too. If you must, forgive yourself, move on and try to do better next time.
Stop letting others bring you down to their level. – Refuse to lower your standards to accommodate those who refuse to raise theirs.
Stop wasting time explaining yourself to others. – Your friends don’t need it and your enemies won’t believe it anyway. Just do what you know in your heart is right.
Stop doing the same things over and over without taking a break. – The time to take a deep breath is when you don’t have time for it. If you keep doing what you’re doing, you’ll keep getting what you’re getting. Sometimes you need to distance yourself to see things clearly.
Stop overlooking the beauty of small moments. – Enjoy the little things, because one day you may look back and discover they were the big things. The best portion of your life will be the small, nameless moments you spend smiling with someone who matters to you.
Stop trying to make things perfect. – The real world doesn’t reward perfectionists, it rewards people who get things done. Read Getting Things Done.
Stop following the path of least resistance. – Life is not easy, especially when you plan on achieving something worthwhile. Don’t take the easy way out. Do something extraordinary.
Stop acting like everything is fine if it isn’t. – It’s okay to fall apart for a little while. You don’t always have to pretend to be strong, and there is no need to constantly prove that everything is going well. You shouldn’t be concerned with what other people are thinking either – cry if you need to – it’s healthy to shed your tears. The sooner you do, the sooner you will be able to smile again.
Stop blaming others for your troubles. – The extent to which you can achieve your dreams depends on the extent to which you take responsibility for your life. When you blame others for what you’re going through, you deny responsibility – you give others power over that part of your life.
Stop trying to be everything to everyone. – Doing so is impossible, and trying will only burn you out. But making one person smile CAN change the world. Maybe not the whole world, but their world. So narrow your focus.
Stop worrying so much. – Worry will not strip tomorrow of its burdens, it will strip today of its joy. One way to check if something is worth mulling over is to ask yourself this question: “Will this matter in one year’s time? Three years? Five years?” If not, then it’s not worth worrying about.
Stop focusing on what you don’t want to happen. – Focus on what you do want to happen. Positive thinking is at the forefront of every great success story. If you awake every morning with the thought that something wonderful will happen in your life today, and you pay close attention, you’ll often find that you’re right.
Stop being ungrateful. – No matter how good or bad you have it, wake up each day thankful for your life. Someone somewhere else is desperately fighting for theirs. Instead of thinking about what you’re missing, try thinking about what you have that everyone else is missing.
Photo by: Rob Brucker

It's Been To Long

2011-12-09T08:50:00.000-08:00

Halloween, Thanksgiving, and now almost Christmas where has the time gone?? Life has been busy and so have we. I hope everyone is enjoying this holiday season. Our tree is up, a few presents bought and our Chrsitmas cards are almost done. I am feeling a little behind but never the less enjoying each and every moment. I am so excited about our family pictures this year, some friends of ours did them this year and they did an amazing job. Thank you Amber and Josiah at Callidum Photography! Here is a few of my favorites!!!

Parenting

2011-10-03T13:41:00.000-07:00

Good, honest, hardheaded character is a function of the home. If the proper seed is sown there and properly nourished for a few years, it will not be easy for that plant to be uprooted. ~George A. Dorsey

Thankful For These Things

2011-09-20T15:43:00.000-07:00

"Health is the greatest gift, contentment the greatest wealth, faithfulness the best relationship."- Buddha

MOTHER TERESA

2011-09-17T12:51:00.001-07:00

I BELIEVE THIS TO BE TRUE

2011-09-16T08:25:00.000-07:00

No man can climb out beyond the limitations of his own character. ~John Morle

Labor Day Fishing Trip

2011-09-13T18:31:00.001-07:00

Over Labor Day weekend we took a family fishing trip, which was a blast. We ended up going over to Morro Bay the night before and sleeping on the boat will all of the kids, needless to say Jay and I didn't get much sleep. We left out pretty early and spent the day out fishing. The weather was beautiful and we were able to share it with Jay's family. The kids absolutely love getting to sleep on Daddy's boat and we always race to see who catches the most fish, which was me this trip. :)

WISDOM

2011-09-09T08:25:00.000-07:00

My hubster sent me this....

2011-09-07T15:47:00.000-07:00

"There is nothing nobler or more admirable than when two people who see eye to eye keep house as man and wife, confounding their enemies and delighting their friends."
-HOmer

FUNNY

2011-08-29T18:16:00.000-07:00

Love This

2011-08-29T18:08:00.001-07:00

Whatever they grow up to be, they are still our children, and the one most important of all the things we can give to them is unconditional love. Not a love that depends on anything at all except that they are our children.”
Rosaleen Dickson quotes

First Day Of School

2011-08-26T09:47:00.000-07:00

It's so hard to believe another summer is gone and another school year has started. The kids were so excited to start school this week. We are so proud of all four of them. This year we have a big 7th grader two in 4th grade and our baby started Kindergarten. We look forward to the great progress they will make this year and the new friendships that will be made.

New York

2011-08-25T08:15:00.000-07:00

What can I say, it's truly the city that never sleeps. It's magical, and exciting, historical and busy but, I fell in love. It is now one of my absolute favorite places and the best vacation I have ever been on. Jay and I truly had the time of our lives. We made our rounds to all of the places we had wanted to visit, a few stops for friends who wanted us to try this or that for them, of course a Yankees game and we ate more food than I thought humanly possible. We conquered the subway, walked many miles and even enjoyed a walk to Broadway in the rain. The concrete jungle has stolen my heart and I cannot wait to return. Here are just a few of our many pictures. Enjoy!

New York

2011-08-15T11:32:00.001-07:00

BEST TRIP EVER!!!!

Love Me Some Keenan

2011-08-03T11:24:00.000-07:00

This is one of my fave's.

Trivial

2011-07-28T08:30:00.000-07:00

How trivial our problems, hurts and frustration are when thinking of others who suffer pain and anguish we could never imagine.

Help For East Africa

2011-07-26T22:13:00.000-07:00

PLease, I beg of you to take the time and donate to help the people of Somalia and Kenya who are dying each day from hunger. My heart is broken in two for these poor people. I cannot imaine the pain these mothers are experiencing watching their babies starve. We are all so very blessed, help someone in need!!!!

http://www.takepart.com/news/2011/07/20/how-to-help-east-africa-drought

Happy Birthday

2011-07-26T21:50:00.000-07:00

This week two of my dearest friends celebrated birthdays. Happy Birthday Annie and Holly. I cannot imagine life without the two of you, you both bring so much to mine. xoxoxoxo

Jay's Bday Luau

2011-07-20T10:16:00.001-07:00

Love This

2011-07-20T10:03:00.001-07:00

HIS AND HER DIARY FOR THE SAME DAY:

Her Diary:

Tonight, I thought my husband was acting weird. We had made plans to meet at a nice restaurant for dinner. I was shopping with my friends all day long, so I thought he was upset at the fact that I was a bit late, but he made no comment on it. Conversation wasn't flowing, so I suggested that we go somewhere quiet so we could talk. He agreed, but he didn't say much. I asked him what was wrong; He said, 'Nothing.' I asked him if it was my fault that he was upset. He said he wasn't upset, that it had nothing to do with me, and not to worry about it. On the way home, I told him that I loved him. He smiled slightly, and kept driving. I can't explain his behavior I don't know why he didn't say, 'I love you, too.' When we got home, I felt as if I had lost him completely, as if he wanted nothing to do with me anymore. He just sat there quietly, and watched TV. He

continued to seem distant and absent. Finally, with silence all around us, I decided to go to bed. About 15 minutes later, he came to bed. But I still felt that he was distracted, and his thoughts were somewhere else. He fell asleep - I cried. I don't know what to do. I'm almost sure that his thoughts are with someone else.

My life is a disaster.

His Diary:

Boat wouldn't start, can't figure out why.

A Great Read/ Manipulative People

2011-07-09T10:35:00.000-07:00

ttp://www.rickross.com/reference/brainwashing/brainwashing11.html

Four Weeks From Today!

2011-07-09T10:29:00.001-07:00

Excuses

2011-07-03T13:23:00.000-07:00

Excuses are tools of the incompetent used to build monuments to nothing. For those who specialize in them shall never be good at anything else."

Family Fun

2011-07-03T13:06:00.000-07:00

Every Wednesday night at our house you can find family, laughter and good food.

Fourth Of July Craft Ideas

2011-06-30T09:41:00.001-07:00

http://familyfun.go.com/4th-of-july/4th-of-july-crafts/

The Right Thing

2011-06-29T09:42:00.001-07:00

See, you don’t have to think about doing the right thing if you are for the right thing then you’ll do it without thinking.”
Eyemadreamer
Maya Angelou quote

Happy Father's Day

2011-06-21T06:39:00.000-07:00

I truly count my blessings everyday. I grew up in the care of one of the most amazing men to ever walk the face of the earth. A man of wisdom, character and integrity. He taught me right from wrong and the importance of being honest. He made the necessary sacrifices for his family and always put us first. He has the most giving heart and has taught me what it truly means to love unconditionally. I love you Daddy!

I feel I have found that same cloth in my husband. He loves his family and he makes good choices everyday in the best interest of us. He is instilling values into our children that will last a lifetime. He is a safe harbor of love and consistency that are children need. I am so proud of him and know that our children are in the best of hands. I love you Baby!

I would also like to mention my children's two Grandpa's, Dappy and Papa Charlie. They too are awesome hard working men who love our babies so much and are great examples to them. We are truly blessed to have you in our lives.

Happy Father's Day!

Here are pics of Jay opening his present. I made him a book with pictures of him and the kiddos and all the reasons they love their dad. He was teary eyed. :)

Party Central

2011-06-16T17:30:00.000-07:00

Last weekend we were hopping from party to party. We had a graduation party and two birthday parties for our beautiful nieces. I love my family and would travel to the ends of the earth for them to all know how much they mean to us. Here are some pics from the parties.

7 Week Countdown

2011-06-13T11:39:00.000-07:00

My Favorite Boy- A Concert I Shall Never Forget.

2011-06-11T19:49:00.000-07:00

My Favorite Gal

2011-06-11T19:26:00.000-07:00

Hubby's Flying Video

2011-06-09T16:50:00.001-07:00

http://www.youtube.com/user/av8rbfl?feature=mhum#p/a/u/2/q3LLQurKkNE

My Bub's Birthday

2011-06-09T16:21:00.000-07:00

Here are some pics from my brothers 30th birthday. It's so hard to believe he turned 30. I love this boy with all of my heart. He is a Christian, a loving husband a wonderful Daddy and an amazing teacher. He has always accomplished anything he sets his mind to and has been given so many amazing talents. I was so lucky to grow up in the same house as this guy. We have and always will share such a special bond. I love you bub.

Love This

2011-05-26T08:37:00.000-07:00

I stole this from a post on Mama Manifesto. I couldnt help it, she put everything I could ever want to say to my babies on paper. Enjoy!

Please

notes to my children:

Don’t forget to feel
and then move on
if things don’t go the way
you thought they should go.
Sometimes what you want isn’t even what you wanted
anyway.

Open doors for girls.
Or better yet,
open doors for anyone and everyone
coming through.

Please.

Your brother will be your best friend,
if you let him.

Don’t pass up chances to go to far-away places
even if it doesn’t seem like the right time.

Marry someone who likes
so many
of the very same things
that
you like.

Please.

You need to trust your heart-gut,
it speaks to you.
It is a true voice
that can keep you
safe from danger
and lead you to great things.

You were made for those great things,
like laughing or changing your corner of the world.

There are dreams in your heart
and you’ll surely forget them sometimes
so circle back
and uncover them
because they are only yours
and they never totally
leave you.

What is the one thing you can
know for sure?
You will always belong
with me, with us,
we’re a belonging family.

Some feelings
are really hard to feel.
Feel them anyway.

Eat things that don’t come from a box or a plastic bag
most of the time,
eat things that come from say…the earth or a tree.

Please.

Smoking really is as bad for you as they say it is
and even though you’ll think you’re invincible
for many
many years,
if you smoke, you will feel it and you will smell.

I want to say
everything in moderation now,
but you come from a long line of people
who don’t do moderation well at all.
So just,
be careful.

Please.

Gossiping is gross,
you’ll feel that in your heart-gut,
I guarantee it.
And anyway,
you can like just about anyone
as long as you lay your self-righteousness aside.

I don’t really care if you’re good at algebra
and that’s not just because
I’m not either,
but because I think your brain’s energy
is better spent elsewhere,
like on words of poems
or other things that have
more potential
to stay in your
heart.

But maybe that’s just me.
Lots of things are just me.
I love most the things that are just you.

Forgive me for all the times
I have and will fail you.
Please.
The truth is, I’m learning
as I go
but that never changes
how much I wish I could
always do right by you.

Grace is what keeps us all
and it’s free
which is the same for its source,
love.
The love of God.
The love from your fellows.
Give it freely and accept it freely
because you are what love is for,
to get it and to give it to others.

Speaking of others,
learn early that there are no “other” people.

We really are all the same.

So get to know people for all that they are,
not just in parts.
Not everyone will look like you
or act like you
or think like you
or believe like you
but it just isn’t your job
to judge all of that.
It’s your job to love.

Keep the best of friends
like a chain around your neck,
soft and light and connected.

Choose forgiveness.

Turn a whole lot of things over
with your sense of humor,
and then learn to be serious
when life or someone you love
asks you to be.

Please.

Wrap yourself up in the deepest thoughts
and feelings
and fears
and dreams
of someone else.
Listen to them.
Really listen.
You’ll find the best parts of yourself
in what you learn through
the stories of others.

What’s yours is his and his and hers and hers and his.
And anyway,
you can always
have too much stuff.
Give it away,
without much thought.

Please.

Be the one that says,
I’ll help!

You don’t have to DO faith perfectly,
but have as much as you can.
You see,
there is a great union at work
between you
and your Maker.
Should you seek it with an open heart,
you will find rest and freedom
from the parts of yourself
that scare you the most.

Do the next right thing. Don’t leap before grace. Let go. Surrender. Float.

Please.

Be kind and mean it.

Get your hands dirty.
Work so hard
that you are bone weary,
often.

Protect. Seek justice. Fiercely fight for the underdog.

Please.

Think about good things,
the good things about you
and the people you love
and your life.
Think more about these things
than you think of anything else.

The truth is always the best option.

You are like a treasure,
the kind a farmer
might find hidden in a field
after miles and miles of
dirt.
You are that priceless
and unexpected
gift
hidden among the weeds,
the thistles and the bugs.
A shocking piece of art,
sitting on an easel in the sun
amidst the corn.

Ignore all the rest
if you must,
it’s not everything anyway;there’s just so much to know.
But please know that last part
the very most.
Everything else follows
the knowledge
of your treasure-worth
anyway.
So know it. Please know it.

Please.

I love you.

Heather writes at The Extraordinary Ordinary

Patriotic Performance

2011-05-26T08:22:00.000-07:00

On Monday night Haden and Madison had their end of the year performance at school. They had a patriotic theme where they performed songs and Madison and Haden both had speaking parts. I am so proud of our kids this year. They have done so well. I cannot believe this school year is over in a week, where has the year gone?

After the performance we joined family and friends for some Dewar's ice cream to celebrate. We are looking forward to a fun filled summer enjoying our kids and this precious time we have with them. It's all going by so fast.

Happy 65th Anniversary

2011-05-18T19:54:00.000-07:00

This weekend we had the privilege of celebrating Jay's Grandparents 65th Anniversary. What a milestone! These two have weathered many storms, and I'm sure lots of days were not easy but their love prevailed. Jay and I are both so blessed to have the Grandparents we have had. What beautiful examples of Love, Commitment and Integrity! Happy Anniversary Grandpa and Grandma we love you both so very much!

Mother's Day

2011-05-09T16:35:00.000-07:00

I hope that all of you Mother's had a beautiful day yesterday surrounded by the ones you love and that love you. I had the pleasure of being with my mother and mother in love. They are both extraordinary women who deserve to be celebrated. I am so thankful for the both of them, without them Jay and I would be lost.

My kids were so sweet and made me beautiful gifts from the heart that I will always treasure. My hubby made dinner and even my favorite, fudge. I am so blessed and am thankful for all of the wonderful mother's I have had impact my life, thank you!

Today

2011-05-04T18:50:00.001-07:00

Four years ago today Jay and I went on our very first date. We had been talking for several weeks and had decided a meeting was in order. :) We spent the whole day together. We had lunch and ice cream in Ventura, sat on the beach and shared stories and then later decided we needed to do dinner also. The rest is history. I am so incredibly blessed to have found him and the two children that I love so much. I love Jay and respect him and know that he loves me and my children with his whole heart. I am blessed beyond measure and am so thankful that we were lucky enough to find each other. I love you Jason Mercer!

Below is a song that Jay and I love that was playing that day....

Matthew West "The Day Before You"

2011-05-04T18:50:00.000-07:00

Love

2011-05-03T08:04:00.001-07:00

Love withers under constraints: its very essence is liberty: it is compatible neither with obedience, jealousy, nor fear: it is there most pure, perfect, and unlimited where its votaries live in confidence, equality and unreserve. ~Percy Bysshe Shelley

Easter 2011

2011-04-26T15:26:00.000-07:00

Hoping all of our friends and family had a wonderful day together celebrating a risen savior.

Happy Birthday Mom and Bowen

2011-04-26T15:14:00.001-07:00

I have been so busy but I want to wish my Mama and Bowen a Happy Birthday on here. My Mama's birthday was the 19th and Bowens was the 23rd. I love these two special people with all of my heart and am so thankful for the both of them. xoxoxo

Celebrating Annie and Rev.

2011-04-03T17:39:00.000-07:00

Only a few more weeks and the little man will be here.

New Handsome Nephew

2011-04-03T17:07:00.000-07:00

On March 16th my new nephew Zander was born, he weighed in at 7lbs. 5 oz. and was 20 inches long. Of course I fell madly in love at first sight, I mean look at this kid, who wouldn't? I am so happy for my Bub and sister, they are amazing parents and Zander will be so loved. I am looking forward to sharing in this beautiful little man's life. Tia loves her Chloe and Z so very much!

So Thankful

2011-02-25T12:34:00.000-08:00

Though our feelings come and go, God’s love for us does not.”
Emogirl C.S. Lewis quotes

Another Love Of Mine

2011-02-22T09:59:00.000-08:00

So it's that time again. I love the smell of the fresh cut grass, the sound of the pitching machine and the roar of the crowd. Baseball season is here. Growing up I spent a great deal of time on the baseball field starting when I was seven years old playing all the way through High School. I love this time of year and this game. I am so excited our boys are playing and look forward to them falling in love with this sport too. Here's to a great spring and summer full of fun and laughter. Play ball!!

National Pastime

Somewhere in the summer city...

someones stoop... mid 50's,

when gods wore pinstripes,

and kids crammed their mouths

full of cloyingly sticky gum.

Got it... need it... want it.

Could have been anywhere, really.

Babe's House, Duke's Domain,

The Polo Grounds... Fenway Park.

The voices... Red Barber, Mel Allen,

statically beautiful.

Going... going.... gone!

Stark, white powder... highlighting

base lines, connecting the bags.

Irish-green outfields...

their warning tracks beckoning

that high, fly ball...

Holy cow... Oh, Momma, Touch 'em all!

Thurman and Roberto... gone too soon.

Mickey's left the reminiscing to Yogi.

Oh... for a ten-cent Coke, a shoe box,

crammed with flip-worn icons,

and somebodys mother...

calling him in to dinner.

On The Move

2011-02-16T08:34:00.000-08:00

Well the Mercers have again been on the move. 2011 is proving to be a year of adventures. A few weeks ago we were able to spend a week in Arizona with family and have some great adventures too. We took a trip to the Grand Canyon, went horse back riding and spent some time in beautiful Sedona. The road trip, all though long was a blast. The kids entertained us and themselves. You want to learn more about your kids, spend six hours with them in a car. :) It was great to spend time with Jay's Grandparents. I do not know how many hours we spent playing cards with Grandpa but we enjoyed every minute!

Life is to be enjoyed and explored! Get out there and do something new, go someplace you have never been and just have fun. Slow down and enjoy the ride.

Nail Salon - Anjelah Johnson - Comedy Time

2011-02-08T19:07:00.000-08:00

Class Act

2011-01-21T15:36:00.000-08:00

This past week I was able to enjoy lunch with some amazing friends of mine. As I sat across the table from these ladies, and I do mean LADIES I begin to think about all the struggles they have been through. Life has not always been kind to them, they have had great loss, they have endured criticism and they have not always been perfect, but at the end of the day they have made great choices and sacrifices for their families. They have been faithful and supportive and consistent in their lives and relationships. They have put value on their marriages, friendships and reputation. They have been a constant in their children's lives and a rock for their husbands. I am so proud of them. So proud of them. I truly count it a great honor to have them as a sounding board when I need advice, or just an ear to listen. I always want to have someone with character and integrity to turn to when needed. My parents always told me growing up, you are who you hang around with. If that is the case, I feel pretty proud.

My Favorite

2011-01-19T09:02:00.000-08:00

I fell in love with this lady years ago. She has such love, wisdom and humility. She, in her many quotes reminds me of the person I strive to be.

"Love life, engage in it, give it all you've got. Love it with a passion, because life truly does give back, many times over, what you put into it”
nevastopdancin Maya Angelou quote

Love This

2011-01-18T08:57:00.000-08:00

Have you ever wondered "what is the secret to a long and happy marriage?" Our collection of tried and true marriage advice tips will help you answer that very question! These secrets to a happy marriage come straight from the horse's mouth -- those who are happily married!

1.Never assume.

2.Compliment more than you criticize.

3.For each time you vent about your husband/wife to your friends, tell three positive stories.

4.Remember that it is ok to do things differently (e.g. there is more than one way to peel a potato or fold the laundry).

5.Always make time for the two of you.

6.Marry someone that you enjoy listening and talking to.

7.Remember that marriage is sometimes a bed of roses and sometimes there are thorns.

8.Remember that the best gift that you can give your children is to love their mother/father.

9.Be fair! Split the housework, spending money, etc evenly. This way you are never resentful of your partners contributions (or lack of) or expenditures.

10.Never go to bed angry. (Unless it's 3a.m. and you're exhausted, angry, and not thinking straight.)

11.Remember that people do fight. It's how you do it that matters.

12.Before starting an argument, consider if it's really worth it.

13.Fight with pillows.

14.Agree to disagree.

15.Never, ever mention the "D" word (divorce).

16.Do you want to be right or do you want to be married?

17.Respect each other's privacy.

18.Remember that "love is like childhood. You need to learn to share."

19.Marriage is not 50/50, it's two people giving 100/100 all of the time.

20.Surprise each other now and then.

21.The secret to a happy marriage is two TV's!

22.Have date night!

23.Never pass up an opportunity to say "I love you".

24.Hold hands.

25.Hug & kiss every day (several times a day actually!).

26.Always believe that you got better than you deserved.

27.Be quick to say "I'm sorry".

28.Choose the one you love, then love the one you choose.

29.Keep the in-laws out of your marriage!

30.Love isn't always a feeling, it's a decision.

31.Hang in there. It's worth it.

32.Play nice, play often, love much.

33.Never air your dirty laundry as a couple in public.

34.Never keep secrets from each other.

35.Be each other's champion. No matter what, take your husband or wife's side first!

36.Communication is the key!

37.Always respect each other.

38.Never underestimate the power of a good belly-laugh and don't be afraid to laugh at yourself.

39.It's the little things that matter most.

40.Never use the words 'Always' and 'Never' in a fight.

41.It's ok to argue, but never use curse words to express your anger.

42.Never compare your marriage to others. What you see on the outside is not always what it is on the inside.

Another Adventure

2011-01-18T08:28:00.000-08:00

As you know Jay and I are always up to something. We love to go exploring and get out and see things, we are not content to just sit around and let life pass us by. We decided this last weekend to get out there and do some hiking and shooting. The weather was amazing and I got some of the beautiful sunshine that I am missing so badly! We had a great hike and then some lunch. We then decided to go a little further up the canyon and of course got the truck stuck. :) After about two hours of digging and digging and digging, we were able to free ourselves from the sinking sand trap. We both had a great laugh about that one. I am so lucky to have this incredible partner by my side that never gives up and I truly trust to get us out of any situation. I love our adventures together and cannot wait to see what our next one brings!

Baby Boom

2011-01-05T16:30:00.001-08:00

This coming year is proving to be the year of the boy! Not only am I going to be the Tia to a new nephew in a few months but two of my dearest friends will become mommies for the first time and are having boys also. Today I was able to have lunch with my friend Natausha, she is sporting the cutest little belly! I am so excited for my friends and can hardly wait to meet Zander, Austin and Rev!

Christmas Vacation

2011-01-03T15:36:00.000-08:00

Over Christmas vacation we had so much fun with our kidos. We went to the snow, had friends over, went shopping and spent lots of quality time together. Which is really what it all about. We also took an educational trip to La Brea Tar Pits. I went there for a field trip back when I was in fifth grade and I remember loving it! The kids had a great time and were full of questions. They couldn't believe the size of some of the fossils and were in awe of the current tar and what happened to the animals so many years ago. Nothing better than fun and learning together.

I treasure all of our time spent together and am so sad at how fast time is flying by. You truly have to make the best of each day together and make memories that they will treasure. Here are some pics from our adventures. Enjoy!

A Very Merry Christmas

2010-12-28T08:49:00.000-08:00

The best of all gifts around any Christmas tree: the presence of a happy family all wrapped up in each other."
-- Burton Hillis

Happy Birthday

2010-12-19T12:46:00.001-08:00

Today my heart is heavy and full of memories. My beautiful Grandmother would have celebrated her 81st birthday today. In years past we would all gather for her special day at Big Bubbas BBQ. We would have such a fun time with her and all of our family together.
I grew up seeing my grandmother every single day. She was very involved in my daily life and was always there to offer love and support. She was a dedicated wife, mother, and grandmother. I am truly blessed to have had her in my life. What a beautiful example of a lady she was.
Happy Birthday Grandma, please tell Grandpa I miss him terribly too. May you both rest forever with Jesus.

Gift Suggestions

2010-12-14T13:01:00.000-08:00

Christmas gift suggestions:
To your enemy, forgiveness.
To an opponent, tolerance.
To a friend, your heart.
To a customer, service.
To all, charity.
To every child, a good example.
To yourself, respect.”
Oren Arnold quote

Friendship

2010-12-08T15:00:00.001-08:00

As I look back on all that's happened..growing up, growing together, changing you, changing me -- there were times when we dreamed together, when we laughed and cried together. As I look back on those days, I realize how much I truly miss you and how much I truly love you. The past may be gone forever..and whatever the future holds, our todays make the memories of tomorrow. So, my lifetime friend, it is with all my heart that I send you my love, hoping that you'll always carry my smile with you, for all we have meant to each other and for whatever the future may hold.
-- Author Unknown

Best Cupcake Decorators Around

2010-12-05T13:36:00.000-08:00

YUMMY

2010-12-05T13:32:00.000-08:00

My dessert for tomorrow night at our Tredway Christmas!

Recipe Details

Share Facebook Twitter Delicious Print Print Full Page Print Full with Photo Email Chocolate & Peanut Butter Cheesecake Bars
By:NESTLÉ TOLL HOUSE
Rating: 10 ratings

Prep:15 minsCooking:25 minsLevel:Intermediate Cooling:60 minsYields:24 barsA tasty combination of chocolate and peanut butter complemented in cheesecake bars.

Add to Recipe Box Save to Shopping List .Directions Comments Nutritional Info Photo Gallery .Ingredients
2 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
3/4 cup (1 1/2 sticks) butter, melted
3/4 cup granulated sugar, divided
1 2/3 cups (10-oz. pkg.) NESTLÉ® TOLL HOUSE® SWIRLED™ Milk Chocolate & Peanut Butter Morsels, divided
2 pkgs. (8 oz. each) cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
4 large eggs
Directions
PREHEAT oven to 325° F.

COMBINE crumbs, butter and 1/4 cup sugar in medium bowl. Remove 1 cup mixture and reserve for topping. Press remaining mixture onto bottom of ungreased 13 x 9-inch baking pan. Sprinkle 3/4 cup morsels over crust.

BEAT cream cheese, remaining sugar, flour and vanilla extract in large mixer bowl until smooth. Add eggs, one at a time, beating until smooth. Pour over crust and morsels in pan. Sprinkle with reserved crumb topping and remaining morsels.

BAKE for 25 to 30 minutes or until set. Cool completely in pan on wire rack. Refrigerate until firm. Cut into bars. .

Preach It

2010-11-30T15:42:00.000-08:00

People spend too much time finding other people to blame too much energy finding excuses for not being what they are capable of being, and not enough energy putting themselves on the line, growing out of the past and getting on with their lives.

Trip To Cabo

2010-11-27T21:55:00.000-08:00

Happy Anniversary

2010-11-23T16:27:00.000-08:00

Three years ago today I stood and made vows to my husband and to his two beautiful babies. I take those vows to our family very serious and am so thankful God has blessed our beautiful union. It's easy to make bold commitments and declarations of love when things are great, but only in the darkness and times of trouble does true love and commitment shine brightest. I feel so very blessed and have so much to be thankful for. Happy Anniversary Jay, I love you and our family with all of my heart. My commitment to us and love for you has never waivered. I love you!

Touched by an Angel

We, unaccustomed to courage
exiles from delight
live coiled in shells of loneliness
until love leaves its high holy temple
and comes into our sight
to liberate us into life.

Love arrives
and in its train come ecstasies
old memories of pleasure
ancient histories of pain.
Yet if we are bold,
love strikes away the chains of fear
from our souls

We are weaned from our timidity
In the flush of love's light
we dare be brave
And suddenly we see
that love costs all we are
and will ever be.
Yet it is only love
which sets us free

Siete Días En El Cielo!

2010-11-17T21:02:00.000-08:00

Countdown To Cabo

2010-11-03T17:55:00.000-07:00

I can hardly wait!

Hope You Peeps Voted

2010-11-02T21:43:00.000-07:00

Although I am sorely disappointed in many of the outcomes, I am glad I had a vote and exercised my chance to make a difference.

Happy Halloween

2010-11-02T10:36:00.000-07:00

What a happy time it was! Last week the kids had their trick or trunk at school, we had a great party that we hosted at our house with family and friends, and then Halloween night we joined some more friends for a great night with lots of fun for the kids. Yes, one of my favorite times of the year is over but we made the most of it and I am now looking forward to more warm holidays with the people I love.

Love It

2010-11-02T10:35:00.002-07:00

Any fool can criticize, condemn, and complain - and most fools do.
Dale Carnegie

Integrity

2010-11-02T10:35:00.001-07:00

“It's not what we eat but what we digest that makes us strong; not what we gain but what we save that makes us rich; not what we read but what we remember that makes us learned; and not what we profess but what we practice that gives us integrity.”
shhook
Francis Bacon, Sr.

I Have Found This To Be True

2010-10-20T09:04:00.000-07:00

"...people don't change, they just have momentary steps outside of their true character

Loved Little Ladies

2010-10-20T08:54:00.000-07:00

Last night after our busiest day of the week, where we are rushing from Volleyball to Gymnastics to Football and then back to Gymnastics, the girls and I walked in to a surprise! Jay had flowers and a card laying on the table for myself, the girls and his mom. The girls cold not believe it. They were smiling from ear to ear. Daddy said he was thinking about his girls all day and wanted to be the first to buy them flowers. :) He is definitely setting the standard high for future boys. :)

Bowen The Allstar

2010-10-20T08:47:00.000-07:00

My baby has been so excited to start his flag football games. This last week my family came down to watch the little man in action. He is so intense and follows directions from the coach like a pro. I am such a proud Mama!

This Is Truly My Song

2010-10-19T15:15:00.001-07:00

I was lucky enough to see these two in concert. I fell in love.

Truth

2010-10-19T14:52:00.000-07:00

What you have become is the price you paid to get what you used to want. ~Mignon McLaughlin, The Neurotic's Notebook, 1960

Wedding

2010-10-19T14:34:00.001-07:00

Here are the rest of the pics from Annie and Joe's wedding. We had such a great time and the wedding was beautiful. I was able to spend time with some of my oldest and dearest friends and of course we were in beautiful San Diego.

Just Married

2010-10-11T16:34:00.001-07:00

Wedding Bells

2010-10-08T17:34:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow we will be leaving to Coronado Island to celebrate the marriage of one of my dearest friends. Annie and Joe will exchange vows on the beach with many of their friends and family. I am looking forward to sharing in this beautiful day and many more of their beautiful years together! Congrats you love birds!

Charachter

2010-09-30T08:45:00.000-07:00

Our character is but the stamp on our souls of the free choices of good and evil we have made through life.
John C. Geikie

Cardinals VS Raiders

2010-09-30T08:33:00.001-07:00

Happiest Place On Earth

2010-09-24T10:10:00.000-07:00

A few months ago I did the Disney give a day/get a day. You volunteer for a day and then you receive a Disney ticket for each volunteer in your family. Our family made blankets for the Linus Project which is an organization that provides blankets to children in need. They ship blankets to Haitie and other countries where the blankets might be needed. They also keep some local to provide for children who may find themselves in a tragic situation. I think it was very important for the kids to be involved and know what a great feeling it is to help someone in need. So, this weekend we took advantage of our five free tickets (Bowen was to young to volunteer) and surprised the kids. We went to Disneyland on Saturday and a Dodger game on Sunday. When Jay and I told them where we were going they jumped and screamed around the house for five minutes. Nothing better than a smile on your children's face.

Choose Your Path Wisely

2010-09-16T17:24:00.000-07:00

Two roads diverged in a wood, and I -
I took the one less traveled by,
And that has made all the difference.

---Robert Frost / The Road Not Taken

Monday Night Football

2010-09-16T17:11:00.000-07:00

It wasn't Manning, Tomlinson or Porter out on that field, but it was Mercer! We weren't sitting in Qualcomm stadium with thousands of screaming fans but believe me, it sure felt like the big leagues. Hadens team The Quakes took the field under the big lights Monday night and boy were their fans cheering. Their opponents did very well and scored quite a few more touchdowns than we did, but we played our hearts out. The final score was 44-7 which was tough but our boys learned a lot. We are pumped and ready for the next game on Monday. This is where stars are born!

Bridal Shower

2010-09-13T17:28:00.001-07:00

This weekend we had a beautiful shower for our dear friend Annie who will be married on 10/10/10. We are so happy for her and Joe and look forward to sharing in their beautiful day.

On The Run

2010-09-09T08:35:00.000-07:00

I cannot believe we are already in the third week of school. I know all to well how quickly the time is going. Christmas is only three months away! Yikes!

The next couple of months are going to be our busiest. We are promoting all of our seasonal scents for tarrahmisu which if I might add are incredible. I am planning a bridal shower and attending a wedding as a bridesmaid. Haden's football games are starting, he's amazing. I know it will make all those night's sitting out in the nasty heat worth it just to see him step out onto the field. The girls will continue their gymnastics, start volleyball and girl scouts and Bowen will start football. We are planning a great Harvest/Halloween party at our house for our friends and family that the kids and I have been shopping for. Oh, and we will be working and keeping up with all the other aspects of our daily lives!

Yes, its crazy at times, but I wouldn't trade it for the world. We are truly blessed and I am so thankful!

True That

2010-09-09T08:34:00.000-07:00

By working hard, you get to play hard, guilt-free.~ Jim Rohn

Girls Night

2010-09-08T10:51:00.000-07:00

Thanks to my Truth Tab girls for dinner and my beautiful gifts. We had a great dinner and so many laughs. I'm so glad we got the goat story timeline figured out. lol. Love those girls!

Labor Day

2010-09-06T22:06:00.000-07:00

This past weekend we were able to escape and enjoy a few days of fun. We joined a bunch of our friends and family camped at Kaweah Resort next to the river. Enjoy the pics.

Getting Away

2010-09-03T11:04:00.000-07:00

So this mama is ready for some relaxation! Not that camping and cooking is all that relaxing but, it will be a change of scenery and lots of great people to have fun with. I hope everyone has a safe holiday. Get out there and do something!

Cool Pic

2010-09-02T13:03:00.000-07:00

Happiness

2010-09-02T13:02:00.000-07:00

Happiness cannot be traveled to, owned, earned, worn or consumed. Happiness is the spiritual experience of living every minute with love, grace and gratitude

PROACTIVE VS REACTIVE

2010-08-31T07:31:00.000-07:00

Be Proactive” is habit #1 from Steve Covey’s The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People. Being proactive means taking conscious control over your life, setting goals and working to achieve them. Instead of reacting to events and waiting for opportunities, you go out and create your own events and opportunities.

Being proactive means that instead of merely reacting to events as they happen, you consciously engineer your own events.

Most people think reactively. And reacting to certain events is all well and good. But it becomes a problem when that’s all there is to a person’s life — nothing more than instinctively reacting to stimuli.

Steve Covey points out that there’s a gap between stimulus and response, and within that gap lies the potential for us to choose our response. Four special human endowments give us this power:

1.Self-awareness – the understanding that you do have a choice between stimulus and response. If someone insults you, you can choose not to become angry. If you are offered a donut, you can choose not to eat it.
2.Conscience – the ability to consult your inner compass to decide what is right for you. You can make decisions based on unchanging principles, regardless of what is socially favored at the moment.
3.Creative Imagination – the ability to visualize alternative responses. By using your imagination, you can mentally generate and evaluate different options.
4.Independent Will – You have the freedom to choose your own unique response. You aren’t forced to conform to what others expect from you.
A lack of proactivity can often be traced to a weakness in one of these four human endowments. Maybe you’re spending too much time in a state of low consciousness and never reaching the level of awareness necessary to make proactive life decisions. Perhaps your conscience has become muddled by societal conditioning, so you aren’t even sure what you want from life; when something doesn’t feel right to you, you look to others to decide how you should feel about it. Maybe you aren’t taking the time to visualize alternatives. Or perhaps your independent will is being restricted by the pressure to conform to others’ expectations.

It can be argued that on some level, we’re always reacting to events, either external or internal. The difference between proactivity and reactivity can then be viewed in terms of what degree of “mental processing” occurs during the gap between stimulus and response. A proactive person will apply the four human endowments to choose a response (or to choose no response at all). But even more than that, a proactive person will invest the time to make conscious life choices and follow through on them.

Reactive people tend to be out of touch with their core values. Instead of running their lives based on unchanging core principles, they pick up temporary values from others around them. If no special opportunities come their way, they’ll stay at the same job year after year as long as it’s semi-satisfying. If most of their friends exercise, they probably will too; otherwise, they probably won’t. They go with the flow of the people and circumstances that surround them, but they don’t direct the flow. Their lives are largely out of their direct conscious control; they tend to only exert their human endowments when they absolutely must, such as if they get laid off unexpectedly (and even then it’s often to a minimal degree). But when things are pretty good, life is mostly on autopilot.

Proactive people, on the other hand, are aware of their core values. They consciously make key decisions based on those values. They create their own opportunities and direct the flow of their own lives. Even when things are pretty good, they’re still making conscious choices. Sometimes that means maintaining the status quo, while other times it means changing directions. Sometimes their values will align well with what’s socially popular; other times they won’t. Proactive people will take actions that often seem mysterious to reactive people. They may suddenly quit their job to start a new business, even though everything seemed to be going well for them. They’ll often start new projects or activities “out of the blue” when it seems like there’s no externally motivated reason to do so. A proactive person will still pay attention to external events, but they’ll pilot themselves to their desired destination regardless of those events.

If a reactive person were to captain a ship, the ship would flow with the currents. This person would be preoccupied with studying the currents, trying to predict where the ship will end up as a function of the currents. If the currents are good, this person is happy. If the currents are poor, this person feels stressed. On occasion this person might attempt to set a destination, and if the currents are good, the ship will arrive. But if the currents are poor, this person will bemoan them and give up the destination for an easier one.

If a proactive person were to captain a ship, however, the ship would go wherever the captain wanted it to go. This captain would still note the currents, but they’d merely be used for navigational purposes. Sometimes the ship would flow with the currents; other times it would steam against them. It matters little whether the currents are good or not; this captain will reach the intended destination regardless of the currents. The currents can only control the time of arrival and the exact path from starting point to final destination. But the currents have no power to dictate the final destination; that is entirely the captain’s choice.

Some examples of reactive [proactive] language:

•Where is the industry going? [Where shall I go next, and how will I get there?]
•I don’t have time to exercise. [How shall I make time to exercise?]
•How much money can I expect to make if I do X? [How much money do I want to make, and what will I do to earn it?]
•I’ll try it and see what happens. [I'll do it.]
•I’m too tired. [What can I do to increase my energy?]
•I’ve never been very good at math. [How can I improve my math skills and enjoy the process?]
•Nothing really inspires me. [What would I tackle if I knew I couldn't fail?]
•What is the meaning of life? [What is the meaning I wish to give to my life?]
Taking the pulse of others is a big concern for reactive people. They usually want to work at a “stable” job in a “good” industry, and they see themselves at the mercy of market conditions. If they manage to start a new business, it’s because they know lots of others who are already doing so, and they want to join the pack. They want to know what products and services seem to be doing well, so they can do something similar. If they fail, it’s because the industry isn’t doing well, or there’s too much competition, or because of some oft-cited external luck factor.

Do you think that anything that happens “out there” will determine how successful you’ll be in your endeavors? Not if you’re proactive. If you’re proactive, external events can only affect your time of arrival and the exact path you take to your goal. But they cannot dictate your goal for you. Proactive people still get knocked around by the currents at times, but they’ll just keep readjusting their course to retarget their goals, goals which are ultimately attainable by their own efforts.

Of course everyone has a mixture of both proactivity and reactivity. Pure examples of the two extremes are rare. You may find that you’re extremely proactive in one area, while letting other parts of your life slip into unconscious autopilot. So take the time to use your human endowments of self-awareness, conscience, creative imagination, and independent will to shine a light on those neglected areas of your life and consciously choose to get things moving. If you don’t like where the currents are taking you, then change course. Don’t wait for an opportunity to arrive; engineer your own. The reactive people in your life will often throw a fit when you do this, so let them, and exercise your independent will anyway. Even when everyone around you seems to be reactive, you can still be proactive. Initially that will probably feel like swimming against the currents, but if the currents of your life are leading in the wrong direction anyway, that’s a good thing.

Although “going with the flow” is often considered a wise admonition, the level of wisdom in this advice depends on where that flow is going. For example: in the USA going with the flow of our current state of health means becoming overweight or obese, living a sedentary exercise-free lifestyle, and then dying of either heart disease or cancer. Going with the flow financially means gradually sinking into debt and then dying broke. Going with the flow of our marriages means getting divorced (67% of Americans who were married in 1990 can ultimately expect to divorce, sources = Daniel Goleman’s Emotional Intelligence and John Gottman’s What Predicts Divorce). Going with the flow of our educational practices means never reading another nonfiction book after high school. Going with the flow of our environmental practices means … believe me, you don’t even want to go there.

If you wish to live an extraordinary life, you often have to go against the flow that everyone else seems to be following. You can choose not to be one of the “XXX billions served.” In a way you’re switching over to being guiding by the flow of your own self-awareness and consciousness. You tune into your inner flow instead of being dragged along by the flow of external stimuli. Sure you may win the lottery or receive a big inheritance, but most likey you won’t just flow into wealth… or health… or fulfillment. You have to consciously choose these things and then follow up with committed action.

Where is the flow of your life taking you? If you continue flowing along with the currents of your life as they are now, where will you end up? And what will you never experience because those currents just don’t stop at certain destinations? How can you exercise your proactivity and your human endowments to direct the course of your life (regardless of the currents), so that you intentionally create the kind of life you want instead of just drifting along?

Proactivity has many names. Tony Robbins refers to it as using your Personal Power. Brian Tracy states, “Those who don’t set goals for themselves are forever doomed to work to achieve the goals of others.” Denis Waitley juxtaposes winners make it happen vs. losers let it happen. Dr. Wayne Dyer refers to the proactive as no-limit people. Roger Dawson calls them achievers. Barbara Marx Hubbard labels them cocreators. David Allen uses the terms ready for anything and having a mind like water. The exact terms aren’t important. What matters is making the decision to start consciously directing your own life instead of being pushed along by external currents.

Check Out My Candles

2010-08-24T17:07:00.001-07:00

http://tarrahmisu.com/

Back To School

2010-08-23T17:58:00.001-07:00

The kidos are back to school. They all are so excited and love their teachers. We are expecting great things from them this year. We are so proud of them!

I'm Getting Older!?!

2010-08-23T17:43:00.000-07:00

Yes it's true this old gal is marking another year. I truly cannot complain. I am healthy, I have a beautiful family and so many wonderful people I call friends.

I actually had more of a birthday week this year. My parents came down during the week and we took the kids to John's Incredible Pizza and then Dewar's. It was extra special because Jay was able to join us and my adorable red head Chloe too. I started getting flowers Monday morning and they just kept coming. :) We spent the weekend with lots of friends and family at my parents. The kids of course got to go shopping (Thanks to their POP) and we spent time playing board games with my Mama. Truly their is no better way to spend your birthday then surrounded by the people who love you!

I am so thankful that God has blessed me with another year. Another year to be the best that I can be! We are not guaranteed tomorrow and we have to get up each morning with the intent of making a difference. I am excited about another year. Thank you to all who made me feel like a queen for the day, and to the most amazing husband in the world, just when I think you cannot out due yourself.... I love you!

The Hubby Had A Great Weekend

2010-08-19T18:30:00.000-07:00

Look at that smile!