And me!

Big sigh . . . what is the update on me? Well . . like I said . . the trip to Mexico was wonderful! I wish I had made a list of all my worries and stresses before we left then made another list of the things that I felt were major when we got home! It's amazing the things I had forgotten about after being gone! The list would have been so much smaller! Everyone needs that at times in their lives. Maybe not a trip all the way to Mexico, but at least a day or two away from life's stresses. Things get put back into perspective.

So when we got home, I put Abby into school and looked for a job. The business was left in quite a bit of debt after Travis' passing, and the responsibility of that was laid on Curt's and my shoulders. I have no idea how Travis was doing it as long as he did! And even supporting the motocross! I'm thankful for all the hard work and dedication that he put into us! No wonder he had so much hypertension!
So with the economy being the way it is, I made a resume or two and handed them out looking for employment. Not much luck except . . . my neighbor friend who cleans houses for a living. When I went to her house one day to ask her if she could possibly tend to our horses and chickens while we were in Mexico, she mentioned how overwhelmed she was with cleaning houses. I told her I was looking for part time work, so when we got back from Mexico, I started cleaning houses with her! It hasn't been as busy as we'd like it to be, but it is something.
I have also started attending Kaplan University online. I am taking a course to learn Medical Billing. It is a 3-12 month course which I do at my own pace, and hopefully I can either find work in a medical office or even work from home when I am through. I'm excited about going back to school!
When Travis was here, I knew things I should be doing better in my life . . . reading my scriptures, personal prayer, more family prayers, Family Nights, etc. . . attending our temple more . . I just always had excuses. I've been working on this the past few months, and I sure have seen the blessings come! I know that when we put our life and choices in the Lord's hands, he takes care of us. We just need the faith that he will guide us in the right direction! I have always tried to see the blessings in my life, but they have been so numerous since putting myself in His hands! Sure things aren't perfect. I am still financially taking things one day at a time, but I know that the Lord is in control and as long as I follow his promptings, we'll be fine. "Noone said it was going to be easy. Only worth it." I have faith in this and I am thankful!
Not only am I thankful to my Heavenly Father, but I am also thankful for the love, support and prayers of people who care!

3 weeks ago, my dear friend since high school (although we're sure we were close friends before this life too!), Cathy, lost her sweet husband in an explosion that occurred at his work. He was working at the Tesoro refinery in Anacortes when the explosion killed 7 people. Darrin being one of the three that were gone instantly. How sad to see her go through this! I was thankful that I could be there for her and know of things she was going to experience. How terrible a thing for us to have in common, but so glad to know that she isn't alone! I feel bad that I can't be there more for her, as my life is different now with being a single parent and having so much responsibility on my shoulders. But she knows I am here for her any time. (The first photo above is of me and Cathy) I love you, C!