Jenny-May's Joyous Meadow

Where does the time go???

2012-01-23T23:53:00.001-06:00

I have lost track of it yet again! It's been months since I've written . . . and another new chapter is about to begin. I've decided it's been nice to relax and enjoy retirement, but I miss being part of a team so I'm going back into the workforce! I'll start with with my orientation next Monday and will soon thereafter begin working as a cashier at Rudy's BBQ! I love the food and the atmosphere there, so I think it will be fun! I wanted to do something different and get out of the house and back around people again, so here goes nothing! Wish me luck and be sure to stop in for some GREAT BBQ if you're down this way! I might be a bit biased, but personally, I think it's the best around! : -)

God Bless,
Jenny-May

Day 30: Today I am thankful . . .

2011-11-30T14:02:00.000-06:00

that the Christmas season is upon us, as tomorrow brings on December. I hope that while November will be behind us, we will all continue to remember daily what we are thankful for and never forget to let those we love and care about know how we feel. Don't ever make them wonder or guess . . . let then have no doubts! TELL THEM! ♥

As I stated when I started this month of concentrating on what I am thankful for, I am hoping that I will be better able to focus on those things I'm thankful for on a daily basis now. While I won't be blogging about it daily, or posting on Facebook about it daily, I hope I am at least able to live it daily! I also hope that you have all been able to make a change, too!

God Bless Us Everyone,

Jenny-May

Day 29: Today I am thankful for...

2011-11-29T18:52:00.000-06:00

the people who CHOOSE to be in my life. Following the thought of a quote I shared earlier on Facebook . . . it's truly something to be thankful for, I believe. Those who come into our life and for whatever reason don't stay, apparently weren't meant to remain. However, those who stay, make the choice to do so, and I make the choice to be thankful for you all! I love you!

. . . and I just realized I never posted Day 28 on here yesterday, so here it is!

Day 28: Today I am thankful for books and the ability they have to completely transport you to another place. Regardless of what is going on in my life, I can completely get lost in a good book and forget about anything else. Sometimes, that's just what I need to do!

Blessings to you all,

Jenny-May

Day 27: Thankful today for . . .

2011-11-27T15:02:00.001-06:00

God and all that He has done for me. I am thankful that He is ALWAYS there for me! Even when I feel like I'm all alone, I know deep down that isn't the case. What a true blessing that is!

It's funny how sometimes we want to be able to count on those who mean the most to us in our life, but they don't always come through. Everyone has a time that they need to reach out to someone and that someone might not be there. Maybe he/she has something going on in his/her own life that keeps them from being there when you need or want them to . . . maybe that person doesn't know how to be who you need him/her to be . . . maybe the one you thought you could count on just doesn't have time right now. Fortunately for all of us, God is ALWAYS available and willing to listen if we'll only open up the lines of communication!

I've always known a few things, well, at least for as long as I can remember, that pertain to this way of thinking:

1. Everything happens for a reason.

2. God will never give you more than you and He together can handle.

3. Give your problems to God - He's going to be up all night anyway.

So, when I feel like I don't have anyone else to turn to, I know I can ALWAYS count on Him to be there! What I'm working on now is turning to him at ALL times - not only when I feel like there's nowhere else to go. I've tried to focus on daily conversations, even if they are short, and turning to God when I'm happy and want to share that, too. Like all of us, I'm sure He wants to hear the good things that are happening to us, too. So, this is where I challenge you all to turn to Him, not only in bad or sad times, but also in happy and good times. It's something I'm trying to improve upon - I hope you will, too!

God Bless You, Everyone,

Jenny-May

30 Days of Thankfulness . . .

2011-11-26T12:29:00.000-06:00

So, I've been out of town camping with my "other family" for Thanksgiving and my posts have only made it to Facebook. It's time to get caught up on here!

Day 23: Today I'm thankful for short road trips! Headed to San Angelo to see Becky, Lonnie, Hannah and Mary. Going to spend Thanksgiving with them and some of their friends camping out at Lake Nasworthy. I can't wait!

Day 24: Today I'm thankful for the Benes family . . . my "adopted" family for over 16 years now! Love you guys! ♥ I'm so happy that you all have made me a part of your family and that we are so close now. We just need to be better about taking advantage of the fact that we're so close now! : -)

Day 25: Today I am thankful for a wonderful Thanksgiving this year! It really is the simple things in life when you spend time with loved ones! Yes, I'll say it again . . . I am very, very blessed! ♥

I truly had a fantastic time with everyone camping and was happy to meet several new friends and look forward to seeing everyone again soon, I hope! It was definitely the best Thanksgiving I've had in several years! Thank you all! ♥ ♥ ♥

Now for today . . .

Day 26: Today I am thankful for lazy days! After a wonderful Thanksgiving celebration, but not much sleep while camping, I've just been enjoying having nothing to do today. Watching Christmas movies on the Hallmark channel. I just LOVE this time of year! ♥

Blessings to you all,

Jenny-May

Day 22: Today I'm thankful for...

2011-11-22T15:14:00.000-06:00

my wonderful "customers" who have become some great friends! While our relationships might have started out because of my business, I am so very glad that you are now friends! You really do mean a lot to me and have added so much to my life! ♥

Today a very dear friend called to wish me a Happy Thanksgiving, who I originally met because of Close To My Heart. She has become such an inspirational part of my life and has helped me through some challenging times and helped me to see some things that I hadn't seen before, both personally and professionally! She is truly a blessing in my life! ♥

I'm traveling the next two days to spend Thanksgiving with my "family" in San Angelo, so I'm not sure if my blog will get updated, but my daily "thankful" posts will be on FB, so you can check them out there if you want! www.Facebook.com/JennyMay3

Just in case, I wish you all a very Happy Thanksgiving and hope you are spending it with loved ones, if possible, and if not - know that you are thought of and loved! ♥

Blessings to you all,

Jenny-May

Day 21: Today I'm thankful for...

2011-11-21T20:14:00.000-06:00

the internet and online episodes of all my shows that I watch so I can get caught up! I'm sooooo far behind on some of them that I had to start deleting from the DVR, so it's a good thing they are almost all online now! : -)

Blessings,

Jenny-May

Day 20: Today I'm thankful for...

2011-11-20T18:50:00.000-06:00

Rudy's BBQ! It's the BEST - and being able to Share it with Courtney and Ashley today was AWESOME! I think it was a hit with them, too. Next visit we'll actually go there instead of a picnic in the park! :-) Though...I'm actually a fan of picnics in the park, so that was enjoyable, too! Yes, I'm thankful for a lot today! I've really had one of the best weekends I've had in a really long time. Thank you, God!

Friday was an all around INCREDIBLE day/night and then yesterday was tons of fun at the wine tasting event. Last night was just another relaxing evening at home clearing some shows off the DVR for the first time in over a month - I actually watched some instead of just deleting! Then today after church I went and got Rudy's so Courtney and Ashley could have some real BBQ before heading back to Jersey.Yes, all in all, I'd say it's been a pretty amazing weekend. Again, I must say, I am a very blessed woman, indeed!

Have a GREAT week, everyone!

God Bless You All,

Jenny-May

Thankfulness for Day 18 and 19...

2011-11-19T10:38:00.000-06:00

I just realized I never made it to the blog yesterday, only Facebook for my daily thankfulness post. So, here are both yesterday and today . . .

18 Nov: I'm thankful for One Life to Live. I can't believe today is the last day they'll be filming at the studio on 66th in NYC! I wish the entire cast, crew, production team, etc. all the best and pray that 2 . 0 continues as planned. So many of you have become a huge part of my life, and I consider you friends, and you have brought some great friends into my life . . . one of whom I'm picking up at the airport in a few hours! YAY!!! Here's to the great memories! ♥

19 Nov: Today I'm thankful for any time spent with friends and loved ones. It's amazing how it can recharge you and have you ready to face the world again! It doesn't even have to be doing anything spectacular and exciting...just talking and sharing a glass of wine or spending quality time together at home. Sometimes, the simple things in life truly are the best things in life! I wouldn't trade them for the world! ♥ I really am blessed!

The last couple of days have really made me think about the things that really matter to me . . . it's not "things" at all . . . rather the people that I am fortunate enough to have in my life, as they are who make me who I am. I don't know what I'd do without them! I pray every day that I'll never have to find out and I thank God, too, for bringing them into my life. Some of them came to me through One Life to Live, and while many people may not get that, or may think it's ridiculous or insane . . . some of the best friends I have now I met through my adventures because of the Soaps!

Some of these special and amazing people have been a part of me for all of my life, those who are family. And some for nearly all of my life, the friends I have from back home growing up. However, lucky for me, the Army brought me some pretty incredible people into my life, as well. Some I've know for all 20+ years, and some I've only known since my arrival in San Antonio. Regardless of how long I've known them, they each have a special place in my heart . . . OK - some more special than others, ; -) lol, but still, all are very dear to me. The bottom line is, there is no magical number on the amount of time it takes for someone to take root in your heart or come to mean the world to you, but the blessings that I have received through the years are countless. They continue to come, as God is always there and always providing for me and He has certainly done so abundantly in recent times, as well! I truly am a very blessed individual!

Blessings to you ALL,

Jenny-May

Day 17: Commercial travel...

2011-11-17T15:21:00.000-06:00

is what I am thankful for today! Tomorrow I'll be picking up a friend at the airport that I haven't seen in a few years. Without airplanes, she wouldn't be coming to San Antonio. Can't wait to see you Crash!!! It's going to be a fun weekend! : -)

The ease and speed with which we can get from one place to another to see friends and family is something that we often take for granted, but I am sooooo thankful that there are planes, trains, buses, etc. to help us with the trip! Having recently driven 3800 miles in a two week period, I am even more appreciative of the opportunity for someone else taking care of that transportation for me! Now, if only it were cheaper! lol

Blessings everyone,
Jenny-May

Day 16: Today I am thankful for...

2011-11-16T11:00:00.000-06:00

the ability to work for myself, out of my home, and interact with and meet a lot of wonderful women in the process! The relationships that I am building are priceless! Thank you Close To My Heart! ♥

I am truly blessed to be able to do what I do as an Independent Consultant for this AMAZING company and set my own hours so that it is convenient for me. I enjoy being able to travel to see family and friends when I want to and to take a day off when I need to do that, as well. Being able to teach others how to preserve their photos and wonderful memories that go along with them is something I am very passionate about, as I love looking at the old photos of my family and wish I knew more about the people in the pictures. I want to make sure that generations to come in my family know more than I do. It serves as both a stress reliever and an escape for me, and I am so thankful to have scrapbooking in my life!

Blessings to you all,
Jenny-May

Today I am thankful for...

2011-11-15T14:59:00.000-06:00

the rain! I know we need it and I love thunderstorms! Great weather to curl up with a blanket and a good book! : -)

That's one of the best ways to spend a morning like we had today in San Antonio. We had a couple of hours of steady rain with some thunder thrown in there . . . perfect weather for just laying around and watching it come down while engrossed in a great book! Sometimes, it really is the simple things in life!

Blessings,
Jenny-May

Day 14: Today I am thankful for patience.

2011-11-14T08:21:00.000-06:00

Though I'm really not very good at it, when I can dig deep and find some, it tends to pay off. If I could only realize it more often. :-)

Instead, I seem to most often want things in my time frame...which is usually right now. That doesn't always work out so well and leads to some pretty frustrated situations. I should know better, as God always has a plan, and works things out when the time is right, but I just don't seem to want to wait for His timing sometimes! lol

Have a blessed day everyone!
Jenny-May

Today I am thankful for technology...

2011-11-13T08:50:00.000-06:00

and the opportunities it provides to keep in touch with loved ones, both near and far! The ability to talk, text and "chat" with those who aren't sitting right next to you is something that we often take for granted, but without the advances in technology to do so, we would be lost . . . or at least I know I would! So, I guess I'm also thankful for the brilliant minds behind all of the advances!

While I will ALWAYS prefer face-to-face communication, I know that isn't always possible. My next choice would be talking to someone, as hearing a voice on the other end of a phone is the next best thing . . . unless you consider the possibility of seeing AND hearing them with the advances of technology and the options we now have available on the Internet. So, again, thanks to technology, I guess there's a better option than just hearing a voice! : -) Then, I guess if I can't have either of those, texting or "chatting" with a loved one via Facebook or one of the many messaging programs available is better than the now "old school" option of simple email or the "ancient" choice snail mail.

However, there is something to be said for receiving something in the mail...a REAL LETTER, or a card, especially if handmade, that shows someone really took the time to do something for you - only you - because they wanted you to know that you are thought of and loved. What a special gift that is to receive! I still have many letters and cards that I have received from loved ones throughout my years in the Army on special occasions or just to let me know they were thinking of me. I often pull them out and read through them just because I can! There's nothing like the gift of words to show someone how you feel and how much he or she is loved! So, whether you do it the old fashioned way or through the use of advancements in technology, take some time TODAY to let those you love know it! Don't wait - you never know what tomorrow could bring!

God's Blessings to you all,
Jenny-May

Day 12: Today I'm thankful for...

2011-11-12T14:41:00.000-06:00

the unconditional love of pets! Sasha is such a blessing in my life - don't know what I would do without her! :-)

Some days she is what keeps me going. She never used to be a "cuddle kitty," but she can always tell when I'm down or not feeling well and when that's the case, she's never very far away! After I return from traveling, she seems to avoid me for the first few hours, but then is never very far away for a few days after that. It's funny because since my return from this last trip home, she has been cuddling non-stop and is always right next to me. It's been an extra special blessing - one that is much appreciated right now! I love my Sasha kitty!

Blessings to you all,
Jenny-May

Day 11: On 11:11:11 I'm thankful for my FREEDOM,

2011-11-11T09:40:00.000-06:00

brought to me courtesy of the Veterans who have come before me, those who I have had the honor to serve with and those who continue to fight today for the Red, White and Blue!

God Bless You All! God Bless America!

Long may you wave, Old Glory, long may you wave!

Happy Veteran's Day everyone!

IT’S THE SOLDIER

It's the Soldier, not the reporter
who has given us freedom of the press.

It's the Soldier, not the poet,
who has given us freedom of speech.

It's the Soldier, not the campus organizer,
who has given us the freedom to demonstrate.

It's the Soldier, not the lawyer,
who has given us the right to a fair trial.

It's the Soldier who salutes The Flag, serves under The Flag and
whose coffin is draped by The Flag,
who gives the protester the right to burn The Flag.

~~ Father Dennis Edward O'Brien, USMC

Charles Michael Province, U.S. Army
Copyright Charles M. Province, 1970, 2005.

(OK - I found the poem attributed to both Father O'Brien and Charles M. Province with claims that it is erroneously attributed to the other. I don't know which is correct, though I've usually seen it as Father O'Brien, but regardless, it has always been one of my favorites.)

While technically Soldiers do not "give" us those freedoms, they do guarantee them, so please take the time today to remember that and be sure to say, "Thank you" the next time you see one!

God Bless America's Veterans, today and ALWAYS,

Jenny-May

10th Day of Thankfulness...

2011-11-10T11:32:00.000-06:00

Today I am thankful for all Service Members who have chosen to serve their country.

THANK YOU ALL!!!

God Bless America,
Jenny-May

Day 9: Today I'm thankful for...

2011-11-09T12:07:00.000-06:00

the WONDERFUL civilians and contractors that I've had the pleasure of working with through the years. They're often forgotten at times like this, but they, too, work very hard to defend our country and her way of life!

I have been truly blessed to have enjoyed working with and learning from some of the most incredible people in the world, who didn't wear a uniform during the time I worked with them. The brilliant group of civilians and contractors that I have come to know over the years have also all helped to make me the leader I became. Many of them had prior military experience, but many did not and I think that balance was a benefit to us. It's always great to gain insight and perspective from different people with different backgrounds and experiences. I've been very lucky to have gained a lot of that from many incredible people along the way and am please to call many of them "friend" today!

So, to you all, I say "Thank You" for your service to our country and for helping to train and mentor our service members. You are some of the best experts they can turn to and I hope they realize the opportunity they have!

God Bless You All,
Jenny-May

8th day of Thankfulness...

2011-11-08T15:53:00.000-06:00

Today I'm thankful for the OUTSTANDING leaders I've been fortunate enough to serve with through the years. I've been blessed with SOME incredible 1SGs, so today is for you all.

As with anything, we always have good examples and bad examples that are set for us, but thankfully, I can honestly say I've had some pretty amazing examples to follow and mold myself after when it comes to 1SGs since I joined the Army over 20 years ago. Those individuals are a large part of the Soldier I was in the end.

I think all the way back to 1SG Capers in AIT, who I have been lucky enough to see throughout the years at GAFB, as he's still in San Angelo. (I hope he still is so I can see him when I go up later this month.) He always set the example of the kind of Soldier we should be and that leaves an impression on a young Soldier - at least it certainly did on this one! Through the years he was always so kind and supportive anytime I would see him. Thanks, Top!

The next point in my career where the 1SG had such an impact, it wasn't even my 1SG that did it, it was one of the 1SGs from another company in the battalion, which you will see is a theme in this post . . . 1SG Best was a huge help to me during what was probably the most difficult and challenging time for me in my career. When I wasn't getting the guidance and support I needed from my 1SG, she was able to provide that and enable me to "Soldier on" through some very tough times. Thanks, Top! Then, 1SG Fleming, who was not only my best friend, but became my 1SG was able to help me put those times behind me and work my way back to being the Soldier I was before. Thanks, Top! Yes, we all have our difficult times, but fortunately, there are those out there who are willing to help because they care, and are AMAZING at what they do!

Finally, I reflect on the next chapter, after those days of challenge and then putting things back together . . . it was 1SG Jesson who was the one who always seemed to know what I needed, often better than I did. His mentorship and guidance were the support that I needed to be able to take care of my Soldiers in the best way I knew how. Thanks, Top! While we weren't a team for long, 1SG Santiago was the perfect one to step into that role. I wasn't so sure in the beginning . . . lol . . . but once I gave him a chance, he proved to be one of the best 1SG I've ever had and certainly made it an even bigger challenge for anyone who followed! If only he could have stuck around a few more months to have been here for my retirement . . . without having to risk missing movement! lol Thanks, Top!

This all brings me to the final 1SG who impacted my career in the end . . . and the other individual who, though he was never, "my" 1SG, is someone who I would have been honored to have called "my 1SG" and is one of the 1SGs for another company in the battalion I spent my last two years in. 1SG Sanders is someone who looks out for all Soldiers, regardless of whether they are in his company or not, and I am very thankful that he does. Not only have I been the lucky recipient of his guidance and mentorship because of that, but so have countless other Soldiers who, without him, would feel lost and without what Soldiers need most...someone who cares and will provide them direction and guidance. Thanks, Top!

So, with that, I will simply say "Thank You" to all of you who have helped me to finish my career with the honor and pride that I did, for it was your example, guidance, mentorship, training and correction that made it all possible!

There are several others who helped along the way, but this post would never end, so I just wanted to touch on those who really were in those key positions at the most formative and trying times . . . but without you all, I would not have accomplished so much, so again, I simply say, "THANK YOU!"

God Bless You All,
and
God Bless America,
Jenny-May

Today I am thankful for golf.

2011-11-07T16:03:00.000-06:00

Yes, you read that right. :-) I just had a very enjoyable morning with a former Soldier and I look forward to the next time. I am so blessed to be able to call so many of my previous Soldiers friends. This morning I was able to spend time with one of them on the golf course.

I really am honored to know that they still value my opinion about things and care what I think enough to want my advice. There really are some FANTASTIC Soldiers and junior NCOs in this Army. I sure wish we had more leaders around here like you! Those that take care of Soldiers and give them what they need - guidance and MENTORSHIP!!! I find it sad when junior NCOs have to do the job of some Seniors. There are a few around here that are doing just that and it makes me sad in a sense, but very proud, too, as I know they are doing a SUPER job of it! I can't wait until they become Seniors...then I know their junior Soldiers will be properly mentored and trained, as those juniors will be the focus instead of ME, ME, ME and what do I have to do to get promoted!

OK - so a bit of a venting session in my thankful blog today, but it's a part of what I'm thankful for...it's not really about golf at all...that's just the means to an end. I guess what I'm truly thankful for today is that I have so many AMAZING Soldiers that I have had the HONOR of working with over the years that I can now call friends. I am happy that many of them are right here in San Antonio. I find it very fitting that this happened today, the Monday before Veteran's Day, so I think I'll take this week to focus on the things I'm thankful for that are in keeping with this theme.

So, I'll close with this...for all of MY Soldiers (as you know you ALWAYS will be!) that I have had the pleasure of serving through the years, I THANK YOU for your service to this great nation and her people and for your loyalty and support throughout the years and for the FRIENDSHIP that we are now able to build upon!

God Bless YOU ALL!
Jenny-May

Day 6 of Thankfulness...

2011-11-06T18:20:00.000-06:00

Today I am thankful for the opportunity to live in a country where I am free to worship in whatever church I choose. Today that was Northwest Hills United Methodist Church, where I witnessed a wonderful service! I look forward to next week! Yes, God is good! Bless you all!

Their children's choir performed two songs to start the service and it was such an adorable blessing! They were just too stinkin' cute! It was really a great feeling to be in the congregation and I truly do look forward to being there again next week. It's funny how when you just "Let Go and Let God," life seems to fall into place sometimes. It doesn't mean you won't still be faced with challenges and things won't be difficult from time to time. It doesn't mean you won't sometimes want to give up or feel overwhelmed with some of the things you are faced with, but if you'll just make the choice to let Him help you through, it really does get easier. You can't make changes on your own, but with Him all things truly are possible! Change doesn't happen over night, but day by day you will see progress.

Have a great week, everyone!

God Bless You All,
and
God Bless America!
Jenny-May

Today I am thankful for...

2011-11-05T19:54:00.000-05:00

the simple, yet astounding, beauty of a sunrise. Especially one over the huge open plains of Texas! Yes, God definitely did bless Texas!

As I drove to the Big Red Barn in Seguin this morning for this crop and watched the sun begin to rise, I knew it was going to be a beautiful sight! Sunrises and sunsets are two of my favorite things to witness, as you may have noticed if you have scrolled to the bottom of this blog before and seen the photos that are on the right side of the page. This morning was sure no disappointment! After I arrived, I sat in the parking lot waiting for others to arrive and just watched as the sun continued to come up and the colors were absolutely incredible! It just reminds me of how God touches our lives in so many ways and shows us the beauty he creates on a daily basis!

Blessings to you all,
Jenny-May

4th Day of Thankfulness...

2011-11-04T18:49:00.000-05:00

Today I'm thankful for my health! As I did my workout this morning I realized that I'm so grateful to be able to do what I can. I am blessed to continue being active after a whole lot of years of abusing my body on an almost daily basis. The Army life certainly took it's toll, but I am fortunate and so very happy that I can still do most of what I want to . . . and one of these days I'll be back on the volleyball court . . . (so expect that call Chuck! ;-)) . . . and maybe even play a game or two of basketball, which was my first true love, I think! lol That would be so awesome! Well, I realized at almost 2 hrs. into working out, I had way too much to accomplish today and it was time to move on. So, again, thank you God, for blessing me as you have!

Then, this afternoon after a much needed conversation with a very dear friend of mine about business and my spiritual path and how the two need to come together, I decided it was time for a break and headed to a movie. Now, it's back to work prepping for a crop I have all day tomorrow. Have a great night everyone!

Blessings to y'all,
Jenny-May

30 Days of Thankfulness...

2011-11-03T20:25:00.007-05:00

So, a friend reminded me the other day about the 30 Days of Thankfulness for November, so I started on the 2nd on Facebook . . . however, since I'm taking a break from Facebook right now (with the exception of sending my thankful post from my phone . . . if it's working! lol) in order to focus on my business and blogging, I decided to incorporate it into my personal blog. Now I have to get you all caught up . . . so, 1 - I'm thankful for God! 2 - I'm thankful for my family and their unconditional love and support!

That brings us to today . . . 3 - I'm thankful for my AMAZING friends, without whom I would be completely lost sometimes! (I love you all!)

In only the first three days of the month, already I'm almost ashamed that I don't concentrate on the things I'm thankful for more often. We often get so caught up in the daily rush of life and think that everything we're doing is oh so very important, at least I know I have a tendency to do that sometimes. When November rolls around and we have a day that is set aside to focus on what matters most and we are truly thankful for in our lives, it finally makes us stop and put some real thought into it . . . or at least it should. So, a couple of years ago when I first heard about people doing 30 Days of Thankfulness, I decided that I should do it, too, and hoped it would help me to be better about doing it in my everyday life. Sadly, I must admit that I don't think I have been very good about making a long term change. Maybe this can finally be the year . . .

Blessings,
Jenny-May

Back in San Antonio...

2011-11-02T19:37:00.007-05:00

Well, I'm settled back into San Antonio from my crazy, whirlwind trip home! After putting 3,857.2 miles on my car from the time I pulled out of my driveway on 14 Oct to the time I pulled back into it on the 27th, I was more than ready to stop driving for a while!!! Like possible for the next year! lol However, it was well worth it...I had a great time with family and friends, and even a great CTMH Regional Celebration event in Livonia, MI thrown in the middle! It's always good to attend a corporate event because it gets me all fired up and ready to jump into business stuff and get things going! Which is great considering I have another cruise to earn...this one in the Southern Caribbean in Feb 2013 that leaves fro Puerto Rico, which is somewhere I've wanted to go for 18 years now. So, if any of you have ever wanted to learn more about Close to my Heart and what I do, I'd LOVE to tell you! -OR- if you are a scrapbooker or stamper...or...if you just know someone who is...or you just want to help me out, just drop me a line and let me know! lol

Anyway, I'll be heading back home for a few days at Christmas, of course, to spend a bit of time with the family and bring Baylee back for her annual Christmas adventure with Aunt Jenny! I have really gotten used to this for the past 2 years and hope it's something she'll want to continue even when she's a teenager and it's not such a cool thing to do! She is the light of my life and I adore her more than anything in the world! I look forward to our time together all year long and hate putting her on that plane home!

I hope you are all enjoying your fall...I know we don't really get to see much for fall here in San Antonio, but lucky for me this year, my trip home brought me some BEAUTIFUL views...so I'll close with some of the photos I took...that will soon be finding their way into my scrapbook pages!!! :-)

The view from Daddy's deck.

Daddy's yard.

Baylee and me playing in the leaves in Daddy's yard.

Another shot of Baylee and me playing in the leaves in Daddy's yard.

The view from the deck at the front door of Daddy's house.

A beautiful sunrise! One of my favorite things in the world!

The GORGEOUS view from my friend, Cory's house!

God Bless you all,
and
God Bless America,
Jenny-May

Time with friends and family...

2011-10-19T22:14:00.000-05:00

So, I've been home for not quite a week now and it's flown...from the moment I arrived I hit the ground running. I got here just in time to get out of my car and into Daddy's truck so we could go see my darling niece, Baylee, play the violin at her concert. It was soooo incredible! I was blown away by the talent of those 6-7-8th graders! I couldn't believe how amazing they sounded! I was such a proud aunt sitting there watching her play! I am sooooo glad II got home in time to go to her concert! Then she stayed with me at dad's for the night.

One of my BFF's from high school, Stacy, and her daughter, Rebecca, came by the house when we got home so the girls could play and Stacy and I could chat for a bit. We sat outside by the fire that dad made for us and made smores! ahhhhh - my favorite! That's about the only thing cold weather is good for!!! lol It was great to catch up with Stacy and watch Becca and Baylee playing. They met the first time when Baylee was about 5 or 6 and Becca was about 2 or 3, I think. They were fast friends and we have tried to get them together each time I've been home since then. It's always fun to watch them together - it's howIi imagine Stacy and I would have been if we'd known each other when we were that young!

Then we all met again for breakfast on sunday morning after I went to church with Aunt Fay. I always try to attend services at my home church when I'm here. I always feel welcome and it's great to see so many familiar faces and I absolutely love the pastor we have right now. Then after breakfast, Baylee and I headed to the hospital to see Gram for a while. She seems to be doing ok and after visiting with her for quite a while, we left so she could get some rest. Then Baylee and I went back to dad's and did the same.

I soooo wasn't ready to take her home! This trip is probably the one I'll get to spend the least amount of time with her of all my trips home since she's been in school and I'm going to detroit for business. She's actually off tomorrorw and friday, but i'll be gone...figures! Now I've been hanging out with mom and pops for a couple of days, which has been nice because I usually don't do that much when I come home.

Tomorrow it's off to Close to my Heart's Regional Celebration in Michigan! I can't wait to see what they have in store for us. Should be a good time for sure!

God Bless you all,
God Bless America,
Jenny-May

Another month has come and gone...

2011-09-27T16:08:00.000-05:00

and I've not been very good about updates once again. So, not sure what it's really going to take for me to get this figured out, but maybe one day I'll get it right! : - )

Basically, I've just been continuing to work on getting things organized and going again with my Close to My Heart business. I've had a workshop and will have my second one tomorrow night...I've done my first crop at the house...I've had an Open House and am planning another one for the 8th of Oct and will also be having my second FREE Crop that night, as well. Then a great fundraiser crop that I'll be doing with a friend of mine on the 5th of November and on to a Christmas Card Workshop and a Vendor Fair in addition to my regular workshop and Crop nights later in the month. So, lots of great things going on in the business area that are definitely keeping me on my feet and busy, but that's always a good thing!

I also attended the Volunteer Appreciation Night at the Majestic Theatre last week! What a wonderful night that was. The theme was the 50's, so thanks to my wonderful and talented friend, Pauline, she pointed me in the right direction for where to find a cute little poodle to create my costume for the evening! So, the procrastinator in me kicked into full swing that morning so I could get my outfit done by that evening! With Pauline's suggestion and a few stops, about $15 later I had the perfect outfit together for the party! (Gotta love Good Will!) The finishing touches were done with Close to My Heart ribbon and flowers and sparkles! The perfect way to top it off!

I really had a great time at the party and met one of the other Volunteers as I entered, so we hung out together until she left and then I waited until the band finished playing and headed back home! It was a great evening put on by the Majestic Staff and I am really looking forward to the season kicking off and spending time volunteering down at the beautiful theatre! Mary Poppins starts in just over a week and I can't wait! I get to go watch it on Sun afternoon, the 2nd of Oct, and then will be working it on Tues evening! I'm sure it will be tons of fun and a great way to start of the season! If I see any of you there, be sure to say hello!

I'm also planning to head home for a while in Oct., so I'm hoping to get to see some of you that I didn't get to see when I was there in July. Maybe we can try to plan a girls night out one night and get everyone together one night. Maybe I can enlist Stacy, Alan and or Cory to help with the planning of said fun! ;-) I'll work on it and see what we can come up with! In the mean time, let me know if anyone ever plans to head to San Antonio! (Tammy, I haven't forgotten. We need to talk soon! Give me a call!)

Anyway, I hope this finds you all well and settling into the routine of kids back in school and life settling back into the fall routine. Love and hugs to you all!

God Bless you all,
and
God Bless the USA,
Jenny-May

I know...it's been a while once again...

2011-08-29T14:30:00.001-05:00

Hello everyone! I just realized that I've not been very good about my promise to be better at keeping this updated since I've retired. I guess I never should have made that promise, so I guess at this point I'll just say that I'll do my best to be better! : -)

I've been doing some traveling and trying to get my business back up and running as you may know from Facebook or other postings or ways of following my comings and goings. I spent 5 days in NYC with lots of girlfriends enjoying one last, maybe, long weekend of One Life to Live events and spending time with the actors who have become "friends" over the past few years. It seems strange to think they will no longer be coming into my home via my TV after January. They've all become such a huge part of my life over the years that it's hard to imagine a day without the greatest couple in OLTL history...of course I mean Dorian and Vicki! lol :-) I can't dream of not seeing my Sean guarding the Manning clan or the Buchanans running around controlling everything! I guess I will finally have to get a life of my own - say it isn't so! Oh my ... : -)

What I will miss the most, however, are all of the wonderful women who have become friends, and more like family, over the past 15 years that I have been attending the different events. We decided this year that even if there are no longer going to be "Soap Events" there is no reason we can't continue to do our annual get-togethers, so I sure hope that really continues to happen. I can't imagine not seeing the actors who have become such a part of my life, but I can't stand the thought of not getting to see the ladies who have become some of the best friends in the world to me over the past 15 years! So, ladies - plan for it now - we MUST continue getting together, with or without the soaps!

I've also been really working to get my business going again now that I am retired and finally have time to dedicate to it. As some of you knew before (but now all of you know), I am an Independent Consultant for Close to my Heart, an AMAZING company that makes fabulous scrapbooking and stamping products. At convention this year they revealed our new mission statement:

"We show you how to celebrate relationships through discovering your creativity,

to preserve and share the moments that matter most."

It really made me think and I realized that there are so many things about that statement that I need to take to heart and really get back to myself. So, I'm going to do my best to do just that and hopefully it will help me to build my business, and myself, along the way. I'd love to have those of you who follow me here, also follow along on my business blog at http://www.abchearts.blogspot.com/ and see how it's going!

Have a blessed day,
Jenny-May

Attention Scrapbookers and Stampers...

2011-08-03T22:23:00.000-05:00

Be sure to go check my other blog, as I'm having an Open House this weekend for the new Idea Book and all of the new Close to My Heart Products!

The information is posted on my ABCHearts blog!

Check it out!

Blessings,
Jenny-May

Check out my Close to My Heart Blog...ABCHearts

2011-07-26T15:00:00.000-05:00

I have posted lots of stuff from convention about retiring products and new stuff and will be adding more, so if you're interested, please check it out. Be sure to follow me on both so you continue to get the updates, as I'm really going to work at being better about keeping them both up to date!

Thanks and have a Great Day!

Blessings,
Jenny-May

Where Has the Time Gone?

2011-07-25T18:07:00.006-05:00

So, life seems to have taken over for the last year plus! Now that life after the Army is nearly a reality, hopefully I will be a little better about keeping things updated. As for what has been going on for the past 15 months or so...

I was finishing up life as I've known it for the past 20 years. The Army has been just that for me...my life. It was my job, my career, my family, my friends...it was everything to me. It has been a great ride and I have some wonderful memories that I will treasure for a lifetime! I have some amazing friendships that I will carry with me into my next chapter and hope to continue to strengthen for many more years to come. While I am closing the door on that life and ending that chapter, it will always be a part of me and who I am, as will all of the people who helped me through those times.

May 26th was a very difficult day for me, as that was the day of my Retirement Ceremony. I was blessed to have many people from throughout my career able to be here in San Antonio to share that special day with me. From former 1SGs to former Soldiers who were students when I instructed or trainees when I was a Drill Sergeant, former Soldiers who worked for or with me and many peers from throughout my career. I was honored to have one of the best friends anyone could have and one of the best Soldiers the Army has ever known as my Guest Speaker to make the day even more special. Last but not least, I was blessed, honored, and very proud to have nearly all of my family here to celebrate the day with me, as well.

I have tons of photos of the occasion up on my Facebook page, so feel free to go and check them out. It truly was a wonderful day and I am really glad that someone convinced me to do it, since I originally didn't want to have a ceremony. Thank you Dennis for everything, most of all for your service to this great country...and secondly for your friendship!!!

Now I am trying to figure out what I really want to be when I grow up. My dream job would be working in the Education and Training Department at Sea World...I mean doing what I love at my happy place - does it get any better than that?!?! :-) LOL I am currently working to get my Close to My Heart business going again, as well. So, for any of you who are interested in Scrapbooking and Stamping and preserving your memories and sharing them with loved ones or exploring your creativity, let me know and I'd love to help you with that!

I'm also trying to reconnect with "Jenny-May", as "Sergeant Olson" is who I've been for 18 years now and that's going to take some adjustments and getting used to, I think. I'm ready, though, for the next chapter and what life has in store and where God leads me next. I hope you'll all come along for the ride! Let the journey begin!

God Bless America! God Bless the US Army! God Bless you all!

Blessings,
Jenny-May

Studio J™ goes LIVE FOR CUSTOMERS on 27 April!!!

2010-04-26T21:22:00.002-05:00

I'm SOOOOOO excited to announce that Close to My Heart's FABULOUS Studio Scrapbooking, Studio J™, is FINALLY available to customers tomorrow, April 27th at 8 AM MDT! So, now y'all can have as much fun playing with this AMAZING product as I have! Here is some info to help you get started! ENJOY and let me know if you have any questions!

TUESDAY, APRIL 27, 2010. 8 AM MDT. You can go to my websitehttp://ABCHearts.MyCTMH.com and there will be a tab added that day for Studio J. Click there and you can begin playing...for FREE! You pay NOTHING unless you order some layouts. Putting them together is TOTALLY FREE! Doesn't everyone love free! In the meantime, if you haven't watched the Studio J introductory video yet, go to www.studioj.com and watch it!

If you LOVE classic scrapbooking, Studio J™ won't take away from that - it will make it that much better! There is absolutely room for both in your life. I love them both for totally different reasons. I love the therapy I get when I'm sitting surrounded by paper and embellishments creating wonderful pages. I also love the speed of Studio J™. If you're like me, you're behind and feel like you'll never get caught up on your scrapbooking. Studio J™ makes it easier to do just that! Plus, you can always order Studio J™ layouts and then once you receive the layout at home, you can add some dimension and texture to it by adding embellishments for the hybrid effect. This way it really ties in with your classic scrapbooking!

If you are someone who has never really gotten into classic scrapbooking but are a fan of "digital" scrapbooking, Studio J™ will quickly become a favorite! I have tried several different digital products out there, and in my opinion, NOTHING can compete with Studio J™ in quality, concept, cost or beauty! It truly is the only one of it's kind and the WONDERFUL thing about it is that it's FREE to use with nothing to download onto your computer! You can play with it and try it out before purchasing your first layouts!

There is NO COST to use the program. Unless you make a layout (defined as a two page 12 x 12 layout) and decide to purchase it, there is absolutely no cost. Once you decide to purchase, each 2 page layout is introductory priced at $12.95. That is WAY below the industry average! And, if you purchase 5-9 two-page layouts at a time, CTMH will throw in 5 free page protectors. 10 or more and you get FREE SHIPPING, as well as a package of 5 page protectors for every 5 layouts in the order. Once ordered, Close To My Heart prints your layouts on high quality photo paper and sends them to you. Mine shipped the day after I ordered them and arrived within days!

If you have any questions, I am MORE than happy to answer them. Email me at ABCHearts@gmail.com. If you have lots of friends who love studio, you might even want to consider signing up to be a Close To My Heart Consultant with your own website so that you can make some extra money while they fall in love with Studio J™! You can do that right now while you are waiting! Just click here, then on "Your Opportunities" and then follow the prompts. You can become a Close To My Heart Consultant for as little as $99! Don't hesitate to drop me a line if you have any questions!

Happy scrappin' and stampin',
Jenny-May

Cool little buddy...

2010-01-09T11:31:00.002-06:00

Go to Shadow Buddy and get a cool little buddy or donate one to a hospital - pretty cool!

Love and hugs,
J-M

Coming home...

2009-12-23T22:26:00.001-06:00

So, I changed my flight and should arrive at 4:53pm instead of 11:13pm tomorrow night! Pray for safe travels and not weather issues causing delays!

Love and Hugs,

Jenny-May

Lovin' CTMH's new Studio J™

2009-12-19T18:37:00.009-06:00

I made these layouts using the new online Studio J™ from Close to My Heart. It will be available for customers to use sometime in March. Consultants are getting a sneak peek and I am absolutely lovin' it at this point! I might finally get some stuff done. Here are some layouts from my trip to the Med last year and some other pages I wanted to try out.

Enjoy!

CTMH Med Cruise

Random Pages with photos of some of my favorite people in the world!!!

This is going to be addicting, I see already! Glad I can do these pages and get a discount! lol

Love and Hugs,
Jenny-May

National Papercrafting Month

2009-12-19T11:11:00.002-06:00

CELEBRATE PAPERCRAFTING WITH THE STUNNING FELICITY Collection!

The collection features decorative die-cut paper, three gorgeous color schemes, and a D-size stamp set that include ﬂowers, ﬂourishes, argyle patterns, birds, and an entire alphabet! Your papercrafting possibilities are endless!

There are three ways to get the Felicity collection:
• Purchase it at full retail price for $34.95.
• Place an order of $60 or more in full-retail priced stamp sets (A, B, C, D, and E-size) and receive one collection FREE! Excludes: Stamp of the Month, Art & Soul,® Workshop on the Go,™ and customizable (K) stamp sets.
• Place an order of $125 or more in full-retail priced Close To My Heart products and receive one collection FREE!

The campaign also has enticing opportunities for hostesses and new Consultants. Hostesses get the collection FREE with a Home Gathering sales total of $400 or more (which includes catalog shows), and new Consultants who join Close To My Heart between January 1–31 will receive the collection FREE in their New Consultant Kit.

Celebrate with the Felicity Collection today!
Campaign Dates:
Customers and Hostesses: December 15, 2009—January 31, 2010
New Consultants: January 1–31, 2010

Last chance for Holiday Heyday tomorrow!

2009-12-16T20:49:00.002-06:00

The 50-80% off sale on select CTMH products ends tomorrow! Visit my website if you're interested in getting in on this great special! Feel free to pass this along to your friends, too! lol

Love and hugs,
Jenny-May

No longer in a cast...

2009-12-12T18:07:00.003-06:00

Finally, I am out of the cast! YAY!!! Still not walking, but on my way. I can start adding weight little by little in 7 more days! Looks like Christmas will be touch, but at least I'll be home. Then Baylee and Daddy are coming to San Antonio with me for a week. That will be nice to have them here. Hopefully my foot will be feeling OK and I'll be up to exploring San Antonio at Christmas, and the surrounding area. There are tons of things to do, so I'm hoping that I'm feeling up to seeing them all! lol

I go back to the doc on 5 Jan and then will hopefully start physical therapy shortly thereafter so I can get this healing process under way. So far the foot is still pretty stiff - will just take some time to get the movement back, so I guess I have to be patient. Uh-oh, not my strong point! lol Wish me luck!

Love and hugs,
Jenny-May

I'll Be Home for Christmas!

2009-12-06T01:57:00.002-06:00

So, I FINALLY got my tickets for Christmas. I'll be arriving LATE (I might even see Santa in the air!) on Christmas Eve and then Baylee and I and Daddy are coming back to San Antonio on Monday, the 28th. Will be a short trip home, but at least I'll be there for Christmas!

Love and Hugs,
Jenny-May

Holiday Heyday sale, CTMH style!

2009-12-01T21:08:00.002-06:00

Wanted to let you all know about this awesome sale, too!

Tomorrow starts Close to My Heart's Holiday Heyday ONLINE CLEARANCE SALE! Items are 50%- 80% OFF! Just in time for holiday shopping! The sale starts TOMORROW- Wednesday, December 2nd, at 9 a.m. (MDT) and continues through Thursday, December 17th OR WHILE SUPPLIES LAST. Often times these items go fast, so plan on shopping early.

Go to my website- http://ABCHearts.MyCTMH.com and click SHOP ONLINE. Look for the link that reads Holiday Heyday Clearance sale.

Shop from home in your PJs 24/7!

Love and Hugs,
Jenny-May

Last day of STAMPAGANZA - buy 2 get 1 free

2009-11-30T18:53:00.001-06:00

Today is the last day of buy 2 get 1 FREE for the stamps! Don't let it pass you buy if you're a stamper! Visit my website for details!

Hugs,
Jenny-May

Just wanted to share with ya'll, too...

2009-11-29T18:28:00.002-06:00

I'm offering a "Cyber Monday" special for all Close to My Heart orders placed on my website tomorrow. All orders placed on my website on Monday, 30 Nov, will receive one of the new Spring 2010 Idea Books FREE, along with another thank you from me. You must submit your order on my MyCTMH site on Monday, 30 Nov. All orders will then receive their free idea book and thank you in the mail from me. The website is http://ABCHearts.MyCTMH.com if you're not seeing the links in this message.

Love and Hugs to ya'll,
Jenny-May

Happy Thanksgiving to all!

2009-11-28T15:20:00.002-06:00

So, I'm a little late, but FB was up to date! lol I hope this finds you all well and enjoying some down time with family and friends. I hope you all had a terrific Thanksgiving and took some time to reflect on what you're truly thankful for this year. I know I have a lot to be thankful for - I have an amazing family, wonderful friends, a roof over my head, food on my table and shoes on my feet. Those of us who can say that are richer than a great part of world. Be thankful and do what you can to help someone who might not have all that you do.

Love and Hugs,
Jenny-May

Updates from San Antonio...

2009-11-18T16:09:00.003-06:00

sort of, anyway. Not much new going on, unfortunately. Still crutchin' or rollin' around with my cast. Counting the days til 8 Dec when I go back in and will hopefully get it off, at least for the exam and stuff. Not sure what will happen then if they'll put on another or that will be it and I'll start the physical therapy portion.Once that starts, I'm probably looking at 6 months to a year before I'm fully healed and recovered and back on the court. I hope I'm back on the court, anyway!

I know I'm certainly getting very tired of dealing with this stupid cast! More than tired of bumming rides from people, too! I want my independence back! lol

Well, off for now, but wanted to give a quick update! Enjoy the rest of your week!

Love and Hugs to all,
Jenny-May

Back from the doc...again...

2009-11-12T15:29:00.002-06:00

and he said after reviewing the MRI that the tendon is already starting to heal on it's own, so he didn't recommend surgery. He said he didn't really think going in now was the best idea. Maybe if they had done the MRI when I first injured it, he would have recommended it, but 2 weeks later when it's already starting to heal, he didn't think it was my best option. He felt that casting it and letting it finish healing was a better choice and then we'll see what happens.

He said that, after it heals, if 6 months down the road or so I'm still not happy with the progress or how things are going, then we could always do surgery then and mentioned something about using a portion of another tendon in the same area to replace the damaged portion....I don't know - didn't really follow exactly what he said about it. I just know that for right now he recommended letting it continue to heal in a cast and then doing physical therapy and stuff.

He said it could take 6 months to a year for full recovery. I'm soooooo hoping that it doesn't take so long! I'll be going crazy by then if it's still not back to normal, or as close to normal as possible, anyway! lol So, for now I'm on "bed rest" for 72 hrs and then I can go back to work on Mon. He put in a consult for me to get a Roll-a-bout, which is one of the little things you can rest your injured leg on and push with the good leg to get around. It should make things a little easier to get around than the crutches are. Hopefully it does the trick.

I definitely have to be careful with the swelling because I can't just loosen the bandage now! lol So, that's where things stand for now and I go back to see him again in 3 weeks. I'm hoping that this will be healed and I'll be moving well enough to be able to come home for Christmas with no issues and still be able to bring Baylee back with me for a week. By then I should be doing pretty good, so I don't foresee any problems.

Just say a little prayer for a quick, full recovery!

Love and Hugs to All,
Jenny-May

Happy Veteran's Day!

2009-11-11T10:55:00.002-06:00

I just wanted to drop by and leave a quick post today to say thank you to all the veterans - past, present, and future - that are serving or have served in our Armed Forces. Be sure to take some time today to say a prayer for those deployed, as well as those fighting the fight here at home, and think of those who we have lost who made the ultimate sacrifice.

God bless you all and GOD BLESS THE USA!!!

Love and Hugs,
Jenny-May

2009-11-11T10:44:00.001-06:00

Back from the doc...

2009-11-10T16:53:00.002-06:00

and it looks like surgery is probably in my future. I'm getting ready to do some research to see what I can come up with, but the Physicians Assistant that I saw today makes me wonder. He came in to talk to me after the ultrasound and while they were re-splinting my foot and said, "So, what kind of activity level would you like to have in the future?" O actually looked at him rather dumbfounded and said, "Well, I'd like to be able to do everything I've always done." He then wanted to know to what level I am athletically active and what I want to be able to do....if I was a runner or what. I thought to myself, you do see that I'm lying here in a uniform, right????? Wow - I was amazed at the question! I told him it would be nice to be able to play volleyball again and basketball and if I decided to go for a run to be able to do that, too! lol

Apparently, part of the decision whether or not to do surgery is how active someone wants to be afterward, because healing in a splint only has a 10-15% chance of re-occurrence of the injury, but healing from surgery drops that to 5-10%.So, I'm hoping at this point that they go ahead with the surgery so I'm better off in the future. I was just so flabbergasted at his asking that question to an active duty Soldier! It made for something to laugh at later with the Soldier who was driving me back home, but sure made for a shocked expression from me when first asked! lol

So, that's the story for now - hopefully I'll know for sure what's going on with surgery on Thursday morning. Say a little prayer and wish me the best!

Love and Hugs,
Jenny-May

Howdy, ya'll!

2009-11-07T14:48:00.002-06:00

Well, it's finally the weekend and I am just relaxin' hoping to take it easy on the achilles this weekend so I'm ready to go again on Monday. The later in the week it got, the more it seemed to hurt, so I left work a bit early a couple of days to get it up and rested. So far today it seems to be doing pretty good, but I'm just keeping it elevated and chillin' so I have my energy for next week. I'm teaching all day Monday, so hopefully it goes well and the achilles doesn't start hurting.

I go back to the doc on Tues and hopefully I'll find out if I'm going to have surgery or not, but since they've not done an MRI - just an x-ray, I am guessing I'm going to have to schedule the MRI before they'll tell me. Who knows - I'm hoping for the best, but expecting the worst! lol At this point I really just want whatever is going to heal the fastest! I'm not liking the having to depend on others for things - kinda makes it difficult for someone who is as independent and stubborn as I am! ;-)

So, everybody say a little prayer that I actually get some answers on Tues. and learn what I'm looking forward to. Have a great weekend, all!

Love and Hugs,
Jenny-May

Long day today...

2009-11-02T17:34:00.002-06:00

after a pretty quiet and relaxing weekend. I went back to work today after resting and elevating my foot for the previous three days. I got caught up on some sleep and some of the TV shows that I watch. I absolutely LOVE having them all online now - it makes it so nice to just go to the website and choose the episode you want to watch! LOVE THAT!!! lol

The foot is doing OK - I go back to the doc on the 10th and hopefully I'll find out then whether or not there's going to be surgery. At this point, I'm almost thinking it might be a quicker recovery time if I do. lol Either way, I just hope it passes quickly, as I'm not a very good patient and not a fan of pain! Thank God for a friend of mine, Stephanie, who is helping me out and got me some groceries this weekend and stuff. I don't know what I'd have done without her! I'm also pretty fortunate to work with some great Soldiers who have been helping out in the "ride" department since I can't really drive right now. I am a pretty lucky girl!

So, that's it for now, but I will keep you all posted as to what the doc says when I hear more.

Love and Hugs to ya'll,
Jenny-May

Think I figured out the prob with the meds....

2009-10-30T12:25:00.002-05:00

I was taking 2 instead of 1, which was OK by the doc, but not by my stomach apparently! lol So, now I'm just taking 1 percocet and it seems to be making a difference. Thank goodness! I was not liking the being in pain or the being sick. So, hopefully I'll find out soon if I have to have surgery or not and how long I'm looking at with this. I'm hoping to go home for the 4 day weekend of Christmas and bring Baylee back to San Antonio for a week so I really need to be mobile to make that happen! Wish me luck and say a little prayer if you can!

Love and hugs to all,
J-M

Won't be on much for a couple of days...

2009-10-29T22:55:00.002-05:00

Well, I tore my right achilles, so I won't be on much between the pain and meds making me sick. I'll post again as soon as I can! I hope you're all doing well!

Love and hugs to all,
Jenny-May

Twice in a week now...

2009-10-27T20:32:00.002-05:00

look at me! Just wanted to drop by and send a quick shout out to all of you who are dropping by my other blog. Thanks so much for your support and don't hesitate to refer anyone you know to it! lol

I hope you all have a blessed week!

With love,
Jenny-May

Another weekend comes to an end...

2009-10-25T20:41:00.002-05:00

I always look so forward to Friday afternoon so I have the weekend to recover from the week. Then I always hate it when it's Sun night and it's all over! lol I feel like I accomplished a lot this weekend, though. More than usual! I spent most of yesterday working on the computer to develop a new blog to use for my Close to My Heart business because I REALLY need to bump it up. I would soooooo love to earn another cruise with them and the one for next year is on the EPIC, Norwegian's newest boat and it looks AMAZING!!! I have a lot of work to do!

So, if any of you know anyone who scrapbooks or stamps, or even anyone who is creative and crafty, please let them know about me and my websites. My CTMH website is http://ABCHearts.MyCTMH.com and my new blog is http://abchearts.blogspot.com. All of my contact information is listed on both pages for them to get in touch with me if they are interested. Thanks bunches to anyone who passes this on - and please let me know if you do so I can thank you!

I guess I better get going for tonight...still have some work to get done before I head to bed! Sweet dreams, all!

Love and Hugs to all,
Jenny-May

2009-10-25T00:34:00.001-05:00

I'm just testing the feature to post from my phone! It works!

So, it's been a little more than "a while"....

2009-10-24T10:59:00.001-05:00

I have been MIA for months, it seems. Life here in San Antonio keeps me pretty busy - well, I guess I should say WORK, since that is my life! lol I am enjoying the aspect of taking care of Soldiers again, even though it keeps me so busy - it's what matters and it sure makes the time fly!

Sea World has become one of my favorite places since I've arrived in San Antonio. I could sit and watch the Believe show or the Viva show all day long! It makes me wish I'd been more into swimming when I was a kid, as I think it would be amazing to have a "job" working with the whales and dolphins every day. That's got to be something that truly gives new meaning to the word job. It just doesn't seem like it would be work - yes, I know it's a lot of hard work that they put into it, but I can only imagine that it doesn't feel like "work" to them!

I've also been to the River Walk a couple of times and really enjoy it down there. It's a beautiful area with lots to see and do. Baylee and Dee came down for a long weekend in August and we went down there, took a trip up to Gruene, went to a rodeo, spent a day at Sea World, and of course saw every Harley Davidson store in San Antonio, some more than once! It was a great weekend and was nice to be able to share some of the local attractions with them while they were here. Now, I'm hoping to get Baylee down here after Christmas for a week while she's out of school. I told her we'd go back to Sea World and see if Shamu has a santa suit! lol

Also, in September, Mom came down for a few weeks. It was nice having her here for so long so we cold spend some time together. We went to Sea World a few times and I think Mom loves that place as much as I do. We tried to go to the Wildlife Animal Shelter, too, but they were closed each time we tried. We did a lot of visiting and catching up on things at the house, so next time she comes, we'll have to venture out to more of the places we missed this time around.

Well, that's kind of the quick update of the last few months. Oh, I forgot to add that I spent a long weekend in Long Beach, CA the end of July/beginning of August for the Close to My Heart Leadership Conference. That was great to see my friends and get to spend some time with them again. Long Beach area is absolutely GORGEOUS, too - and the weather was SPECTACULAR!!! So many places in CA that I would love to live if only they weren't so darn expensive! lol Maybe I'll win the lotto some day.....if only I played! ;-)

I hope you all have a terrific weekend! I will try not to wait so long between post, I promise. I'm connecting my blogs to Facebook, so maybe that will help - if I do it right, that is! lol

Love and hugs to all,
Jenny-May

"Soon" definitely wasn't the right word...

2009-06-06T18:58:00.002-05:00

OK - so maybe I shouldn't have said I'd be posting soon....maybe I should have just said "when I get some time" and it would have been more accurate. So, life is pretty busy here in wonderful San Antonio. I'm getting settled into my new job and am enjoying being back in a leadership position and working so closely with Soldiers again! I've definitely missed it for the past few years while I focused on me and my technical skills. I'll be happy to put them to work in the future, but for now I'm truly enjoying being a Platoon Sergeant again! I'm also LOVING being back in Texas! Sure, it's hot and sticky most days, but I spend most of my time inside of an air-conditioned building so it's not so bad, I guess.

Sasha is loving the new house! She runs around like a crazy cat and spends lots of time all sprawled out on the floor like she owns the place and allows me to live with her! There must be something about this carpet that she likes because she's never been like that before...well, the sprawling out part anyway! It's pretty much always been her world and she allows me to co-exist with her! But I love her, so what am I gonna do!

Well, I'm getting older, too, as I celebrated my 36th birthday this week. It was, and has been for years, just another day for me, but my Squad Leaders decided to make it special for me. They proceeded to blow up a TON of balloons and COMPLETELY filled every space in my little desk/cubicle area! It was pretty funny, actually! When I walked in all I could see was balloons! I don't know how many there were, but when we moved them all out to the part of the office where there's open floor and space, we had our very own balloon pit that we could have jumped in! It looked like those little areas for kids that are filled with the little colorful balls that they play in, only it was balloons. It was a nice start to the day, actually!

Alas, the house is still a disaster, because I haven't really done much of anything to it since I started working. Hopefully in the next week or two I can start cutting back on the hours I spend in the office and get home at a more normal time and have the energy to get going on the house again. I need to get crackin' on that garage, too, as there's sooooo much stuff crammed in it right now! At least Daddy re-arranged all the boxes for me while he was here so my car fits in the garage! That's a definite bonus with the sun beating down on us here!

I think I'll sign off for now, but I wanted to at least give a little bit of an update. I hope to get on here more often once I get more settled. I hope you're all have a blessed and wonderful summer and I hope to hear from you all soon!

With love to you all,
Jenny-May

It's been a while...

2009-05-15T23:04:00.003-05:00

Howdy, ya'll! lol

OK - so I see that I've kinda forgotten about this place for a while. Things have been pretty hectic since I went home on leave and then headed to HOT San Antonio! I just wanted to do a quick post to let everyone know that I arrived safely and all is well here! I'm having a wonderful time getting to spend some quality time with my Daddy! I'm soooooo glad he came with me! It's been a long time since we've had some time to just hang out together! I will post more soon with what's been going on.

Love to all,
Jenny-May

Back in Illinois...

2009-04-07T19:52:00.002-05:00

Hi there, all!! So, it's been a crazy past few weeks since I last posted! In that time I have finished up in Maryland, bought a house in San Antonio - long distance (can't say as I'd ever recommend that and I'll NEVER do it again!!! What a stressful and painful process!) and am now making my way across the States to go home for a week. I'm currently in Farmer City, IL where I decided to stop for the night. I stayed in Newark, OH last night and went by the Longaberger Factory today and spent entirely too much money! lol I figured this may be the last opportunity I have to go by there for a long time, so I wanted to make the stop. It was worth it, too - I got some retired baskets that I didn't have! Like I needed them! Oh well, I wanted them and that's what matters! ha ha...

So, tomorrow I head home and will be able to see some friends that I haven't seen in over 17 years, thanks to Facebook! The newest addiction of mine has brought me back in touch with so many people from my past! Very cool! Come and check it out - but be warned - it's HIGHLY ADDICTIVE!!! lol Anyway, I'll be home for about a week and then Daddy and Sasha May and I are heading to San Antonio!!! YAY!!! I can't wait to see my house with the painting done and the little things I wanted to change!

Take care and I'll TTYS,
Jenny-May

The fun begins.....

2009-03-20T10:41:00.001-05:00

So, it's time to start clearing and getting the move under way. Wish me luck with it!

Jenny-May

Long time, no blog...

2009-03-08T18:39:00.002-05:00

So, I have recently joined the world of Facebook and seem to be spending most of my extra time there. It's amazing to me - I have gotten back in touch with lots of friends that I haven't seen or talked to in over 17 years! I've also been able to reconnect with several old friends from my years in the Army. I love being able to chat with them and catch up on things...for hours at a time, it seems! lol

I have also gone back and forth on whether I was going to buy a house because the unit I'll be going to was up in the air for a while. Supposedly all is well now, though and I'll be able to buy the one I was initially interested in, I think. So, wish me well with that process. Kinda scary - the whole first time buyer thing. I'm excited though and looking forward to it.

Well, it looks like I'll be heading out of Maryland around the 6th of April on my way back home to see everyone and pick up Sasha and Daddy on the way to Texas! I'm hoping to come up with a plan to get everyone together when I get home. So many of us have recently gotten back in touch through FB, that it seems like we should all get together in real life so we can see each other! So, for those of you who are still at home, let me know if you have any ideas how we could do that and where!

I had my last crop in the area this weekend down in Huntingtown. It was bitter-sweet since I've made so many wonderful friends and built relationships through my business. I'm really going to miss everyone here. For the first time, it's going to be a really tough move for me, I think. It's always hard to say goodbye to friends I've worked with, but starting and building my business here has given me many added friends that I wouldn't normally have found. Then after that crop, I stopped by another one that I have done for over a year and have since passed on to a downline. The ladies there had a card for me that they had all signed. It was very sweet of them and, of course, it made me cry! Yes, I'm an emotional person, I admit it! lol

Anyway, I'm really glad I was able to see them and say goodbye. It meant a lot to me. I hope to make it back to the area sometime in the future and be able to see as many of the wonderful friends I have here as possible. As much as I'm thrilled to get out of here and get to Texas, I really am going to miss everyone!

Until next time,
Jenny-May

Happy Sunday!

2009-02-15T21:30:00.002-06:00

Howdy, all! I hope you're all having a wonderful weekend and enjoying yourselves. I made it out to see the movie today. I must say, he's just not that into you, is probably going to be one of my all time favorite movies. We laughed so hard at parts that I'm going to have to rent it or buy it when it comes out on DVD so I can hear all that we missed today because the whole theater was rolling! I thought it would be a great movie, but the cast was wonderful! When I saw the previews I thought i would be an amazing mix of actors and it didn't disappoint! It was definitely an AWESOME movie and I'd recommend it to everyone. Yeah, it's a great chic flick, but guys, it would be a great date movie, too! She'd love ya for it! lol

Anyway, I'm off for now! Take care and be safe, everyone!

Sending my love,
Jenny-May

Happy Valentine's Day...

2009-02-14T19:15:00.003-06:00

I just wanted to drop by and wish you all a Very Happy Valentine's Day!! I hope you all are spending a fun filled day with loved ones! I'm actually just relaxing - was going to go to dinner and hang out with a few girlfriends, but I have a bit of a headache that I've been fighting all week, so I'm staying in. Hoping to feel better tomorrow so Kristin and I can go and see "he's just not that in to you" - we've been talking about it for a few weeks now, so I'm looking forward to finally getting to see it!

Well, I wish you all lots of love!
Jenny-May

It's been a while...

2009-02-09T20:42:00.002-06:00

So, it's been a while since I posted. During the week it usually isn't much of a thought and last weekend I had a 3 day crop to go to, so I didn't have much time then either. I hope everyone is doing well and keeping warm. We are finally having some warm weather here and it's kinda nice. I HATE the cold weather! I'm so looking forward to San Antonio and things being warmer. Of course, come this summer I might be rethinking that, but I'll survive!

I'm still looking at the whole home buying thing. I'm pretty sure I'm gonna do it - might as well just jump in with both feet and do it, huh?! So, wish me luck with that and say a little prayer that all goes well!

With love to you all,
Jenny-May

San Antonio bound......in April!

2009-01-31T13:19:00.002-06:00

Well, I FINALLY got word that I'm definitely going to San Antonio and will be heading that way in April. So, it looks like I better get things figured out about what I'm going to do for a house! Looks like I might finally become a home owner! Kinda scary, actually! I think it's time to put in in God's hands and see what He comes up with. I sure can't figure it all out on my own!

So, I'm looking forward to going back to Texas, where it's much warmer than here and I feel at home. The people there are so wonderful and friendly and make you feel so welcome! It's the one place since I left home that I really felt like I belonged and was at home. I'm looking forward to getting back to that! And once I'm set up, let me know if you're ever planning to come to the area!

I'll post more soon!

HUGS to you all,
Jenny-May

Howdy, all!!!

2009-01-24T14:03:00.002-06:00

So, I haven't really been around much lately....life happens, ya know! So, my trip to San Antonio was great and I think I might have found a house to buy once I get orders and know I'm going there. I really loved the layout of it and the friendly atmosphere of the area. The sales rep, David was great and he introduced me to a wonderful realtor, Joyce, who has been a huge help. Now I'm just waiting to talk to branch and see if I'm still going there or not before I buy a house! lol - that would be just my luck, too!

Life here in Annapolis is more of the same. Though, tonight I'm actually heading to dinner and a movie with my friend, Kristin. Should be fun as we are going to see Bride Wars. I'll let ya know how it is! I'm really looking forward to it actually. I don't even remember the last movie I saw in the theaters and it will be fun to have some girl time! YAY!!

I'll write my review tonight or tomorrow!
Later,
J-M

Back in Annapolis now...

2009-01-19T20:36:00.001-06:00

and I already miss the weather in San Antonio!! I just wanted to do a quick update that I'm back safe and sound and will post more tomorrow!

J-M

2009-01-16T21:41:00.000-06:00

So, I'm down on the River Walk at the Crowne Plaza, until tomorrow when I move to the Best Western. I'm not overly impressed with this place, so I'm gonna head somewhere a bit cheaper when I'm on my dime! lol Last night I met up with 2 friends that I wasn't able to spend much time with in San Angelo and they happen to be here in San Antonio for a conference. So, we headed down to the River Walk and had dinner at a Mexican restaurant. Then we headed back to the hotels - they walked me towards mine and then headed to theirs.

So far, so good with San Antonio, but tomorrow I will venture out a bit and see what the area is like and see if I can find an area I want to live in. Wish me luck! lol

J-M

Bein' back home....away from home

2009-01-13T21:45:00.000-06:00

So, my trip to San Antonio yesterday was pretty uneventful and my foot did pretty well. I was able to sit in the front row on the plane and the distance to the wall was perfect for me to prop my foot up so I could keep it elevated. Then on the drive to San Angelo, I propped it up on the dash and drove with my left foot. I'm sure vehicles wondered what was going on that I passed or that passed me, but it turned out just fine. The swelling wasn't too bad when I got here, so it must have worked.

It was great to spend time with my adopted family, the Benes' family, Lonnie, Becky, Hannah and Mary Francis. I even got to see Doodle, John and Janet - Becky's Mom, Dad and sister. I also made it into town soon enough to go to Hannah's basketball game, which was very cool to see. I don't remember seeing teams play that well in the 7th grade. The girls did a great job! I was very proud of Hannah!

Tonight I went back over to their place for dinner and just visited with them for a while, as last night we didn't really get to visit too much. It was really wonderful to be back where I feel at home and am part of another family. We're all hopeful that we'll be able to see more of each other once I'm settled in San Antonio. It's funny because when I called them last week to let them know I was coming to town, I said to Lonnie, "I'm coming home next week." That's exactly how I felt when I was driving up from San Antonio. I felt like I was going home. I always knew I loved my time spent here before and that I would always have my "other family" here, but it was a pretty cool feeling I must say! So, whether I end up in San Antonio, Austin or back here in wonderful San Angelo, I think I can safely say that Texas will most likely be a large part of my future life!

Well, now it's time to get a good night's sleep.

Niters all,
Jenny-May

Heading to Texas...

2009-01-08T21:58:00.002-06:00

So, after being sick in bed all week, I finally went back to work today...and found out I'm going to Texas next week! lol So, just a quick note to let everyone know that I'll be in San Angelo Mon-Thurs and San Antonio Thurs-Sat(or Mon). It's just a quick trip for work and I'm hoping to stay in San Antonio a couple of days to check out the area I'm supposed to be moving to in April.

I hope this finds everyone well and enjoying the new year and that it's getting off to a GREAT start for you all!

TTYS,

Jenny-May

Howdy again!

2009-01-04T18:16:00.002-06:00

So, I'm finally stopping by just to say a quick hello and let you all know I am alive and well....well, alive anyway! lol I seem to have caught quite a cold in the last few days since getting back to MD. Needless to say, I haven't done much since I got back home. I did, however, go out last night just quick enough to grab some milk, OJ, and cold medicine! Of course, the only "shoe" I could fit on my right foot was a house slipper. I'm sure that was quite comical for everyone at the convenient store as I "crutched" myself around in one croc shoe and one slipper! lol Oh well, I hope I kept them entertained! lol I am at least down to just one crutch when I need it. When I'm walking around the house, I usually don't use it, so I'm doing much better! Hopefully tomorrow will be a good day, as it's my first back to work and then I go back to the doc in the afternoon. Pray that all goes well and the stitches come out easily!!!

TTYS,

Jenny-May

Happy New Year!!!

2009-01-01T15:06:00.002-06:00

Just a quick note to wish you all the Happiest of New Years! I watched TV until almost 4AM and then went to bed. Lots of excitement for New Years Eve, I know.....but that's ok. I'm a bit limited in what I can do right now, so it was just fine with me. I hope you all had a bit more excitement to your celebrations! Now that the holidays are over, I guess things can go back to normal! I'd be pretty happy if the weather would go back to being warm, but I guess I have a couple of months before that's going to happen! Bummer!

Well, I wish you all a Happy and Prosperous New Year!

Sincerely,

Jenny-May

HOME at last....THANK GOD!

2008-12-30T21:46:00.002-06:00

So, what an adventure the last two days have been! I got lucky in Galesburg, as it was only a one level train, so I only had 3 steps to hop up. However, when I got to Chicago, what I thought would be a 9 hr wait turned into a 10 1/2 hr wait because we were delayed due to "the train not being released from the yard," whatever that meant...seemed a bit crazy to me. Anyway, we finally got underway about 2045 last night and got into DC around 1500 today. I made the last trek to Baltimore and got home around 1730. It felt so good to FINALLY walk in the door to my house! Now, I'm loving the thought of sleeping in my own bed for the first time in 3 weeks!!! YAY!!!

A huge "Thank You" to my family and Barb who helped me through the last 3 weeks! I couldn't have done it on my own, so I truly appreciate all of the assistance I received!

God Bless you all,

Jenny-May

Time at home coming to an end...

2008-12-28T16:38:00.002-06:00

Well, tonight is my last night at home and then I start the fun trek back to the east coast to Maryland at about 0600. Then, I get to sit in Chicago for about 9 hrs at the Amtrak station to wait for my train to head to DC tomorrow night. That should be tons of fun. Wish me luck that I can check my luggage and have one less thing to worry about. lol

Well, I've enjoyed spending time with my family this trip, but didn't get to see Mom very much. Unfortunately she got sick and couldn't come out much and I am not very mobile, so a trip to her house didn't work until the last day after the rain had FINALLY cleared out some of the snow and ice. I guess she'll just have to come to see me when it warms up! :-) Not being able to drive anywhere or get around has made it impossible to see any friends, either. Stacy probably thinks I've completely abandoned her since I haven't seen her and Brandon and Rebecca the last two trips home. I still love ya, Stac! It's just been a tough couple of trips! I promise next time we'll get together. Baylee wants to play with Rebecca again, anyway, so I promised her we would in the Spring when I come to get Sasha.

As for the rest of you, sorry I didn't get to see you all! Hopefully we'll be able to do a get together when I'm home in the spring so we can all catch up! In the mean time, take care of yourselves and let me know what's going on in your lives!

Love to you all,
Jenny-May

Day after Christmas...

2008-12-26T22:57:00.003-06:00

So, today was mostly spent online - I downloaded, and still am downloading, TONS of music from amazon.com. They are having a pretty good year end sale and there were 25 free Christmas songs that I got too - only downside is it's EXTREMELY SLOW in downloading! iTunes is so much quicker...but more expensive, too!

Well, Dee had to work today so I hung out with Baylee all day. She played with her stuff from Santa and cleaned up her room - with a little prodding! lol She's pretty good when she wants to be! We had a pretty good day, though, and now I'm finishing up with the downloads from amazon. I also got some new books for my kindle, which is the best thing ever! I love having it and having a ton of books to choose from right there at my fingertips. It really is a pretty awesome little gadget!

So, tomorrow is our family Christmas with Aunt Fay and Uncle Larry and everyone. I'm going to go down with Mom and Pops so I can go see Grandma Irma, too. That will be nice since it's been forever since I got to see her. I sure hope the weather stays better and Mom is feeling up to going! She's been sick for the last couple of days. The weather has been ABSOLUTELY INSANE since I've been home. It's been so cold and snowy/rainy/sleety/icy.....etc........that it's hard to get anywhere. I'll be glad when I'm 100% done with the crutches so it will be easier to get around! This is beyond annoying now and I'm tired of them! lol

Well, I hope you all had a wonderful Christmas and are enjoying some down time! Drop a line and let me know how things went for you!

Hope to hear from you soon,

Jenny-May

Merry Christmas!!!

2008-12-25T01:19:00.003-06:00

Just a quick note to tell everyone Merry Christmas!!! I hope you all have a blessed day with family and friends. Enjoy them!! For those of you who are far away from your loved ones right now, know that you are thought of with love and that very Merry Christmas wishes are being sent to you! May you, too, have a blessed Christmas!

With love to you all,

Jenny-May

BTW - I'm back at Dee's and Santa has been here, so I'm sure Baylee will have us all up at the crack of dawn! I better get some sleep or it's going to be a LOOOOOOONNNNNGGGGGG day tomorrow!

Staying at my sister's...

2008-12-21T15:10:00.002-06:00

Well, after staying at Daddy's for a couple of days, yesterday I got to go see Gram for a while on the way to my sister, Dee's. I'll be here for a couple of days now before going back to Gladstone. Getting up the drive here yesterday was lots of fun since it was covered in ice! I abandoned the crutches and gave them to Daddy and held his arm while my niece, Baylee, held my other hand and I hopped up the hill on my good foot! That had to be a comical site for the neighbors! lol Once we finally got inside, I headed to the couch, which has become my latest hang out. My adorable kitty, Sasha, who has been staying with Dee and Baylee since I went to Ethiopia, has been here with me most of the time! I miss her!

It was really great to see my niece and sister again since it's been a few months! I always spend as much time as I can in both Davenport with Dee, Baylee, Mom and Pops and in Gladstone with Daddy and Jayne when I come home. Baylee usually goes wherever I go as long as she's not in school. Hopefully she'll go back to Gladstone with us tomorrow. Then we'll be there for a couple of days and then on Christmas Eve we'll come back up here for a couple more days and then I'll finish out my trip back in Gladstone so Daddy can take me back to the train on the 29th. It's always lots of back and forth when I come home.

Yesterday was a pretty lazy day, as I read a lot of the day and then Baylee and I played Connect 4 for what seemed like hours last night. Then I watched Notting Hill a couple of times before falling asleep. I just love that movie! Then, this morning I have been on the computer trying to catch up on some email and other stuff. I figured I'd drop in and leave an update on things for everyone. By the way, the foot seems to be doing pretty good. I've been walking on it a little each day and it hasn't been hurting, so that's a good thing. Tuesday I get to finally take the big bandage off and go to a smaller one for a while. That will be nice!

Well, I'm gonna go for now and get some more stuff done online. Hope you're all enjoying time with family and loved ones!

With love,
Jenny-May

HOME.....FINALLY!!!

2008-12-18T21:37:00.003-06:00

Well, I haven't been around in a while because of getting ready to come home and then the insane trip home. When I arrived in Galesburg last night all I wanted was something to eat and a bath! Then I crashed. So, I just wanted to drop in for a quick update of the past several days.

When I went back to the doc on Monday, she was pleased with the reduction in swelling and bid me a fond farewell for the holidays with her blessing to take my trip home the next day. So, after an adventure on AMTRAK - long story short, crutches and upper level on the train aren't a good combination. A word to the wise, REQUEST LOWER LEVEL if you ever need to take the train and aren't very mobile! Apparently when the nice gentleman on the phone told me he had taken care of everything I needed for my trip, he forgot about the fact that you had to request lower level and have it put on your ticket! So that was tons of fun! Then when I got to Galesburg, thank God Daddy was where I could see him because I had to motion him down to help with the luggage because the only "assistance" in Galesburg meant the man behind the ticket counter had to close the window and come help - no luggage cart, no wheelchair, nothing! So, Daddy helped with the luggage and I walked VERY SLOWLY on the ice covered sidewalk to get inside the train station! Fun, fun, fun!

Anyway, I finally got in the truck, we grabbed McDonald's since I hadn't eaten in about 28 hours and headed home so I could take a bath! I finally got a pretty good night's sleep for the first time in a week and woke up today feeling rather refreshed! (I hadn't slept much on the train thanks to the man behind me that decided to snore VERY LOUDLY so I couldn't sleep on the train! lol)

Then, today I went with Daddy to see his doc who put in the stents and tell him thank you for taking care of him. The doc said everything was fine and gave the go ahead for life as it was to do whatever he wanted. Jayne said it was a good thing since he'd already been doing that! After that, we went upstairs to see my aunt who is in the hospital, and my uncle. It was great to see them after so long and get a chance to visit for a bit. After all that running around, we came home to await the storm that is supposed to be headed this way. So far, just a little rain and some sleet, but nothing too bad yet. We'll see what it looks like when I wake up in the morning!

Niters all,
Jenny-May

Tired of being lazy.....

2008-12-13T18:49:00.002-06:00

OK, so for a while I thought it was going to be nice to have a break and have to just rest and relax. Now, I'm going crazy not being able to do anything! If only I'd thought about it before tonight, I could be watching Oct or Nov episodes of OLTL. However, since I didn't think about it, I'm still in Sep! I don't think I'll ever get caught up! lol

Well, I had originally (for a couple of months now) been planning to go to New Jersey today and stay with my friends, Steve and Barrie. We were going to go to an event to see Kamar and then just spend time together hanging out and relaxing at their place. Then when I found out I was having surgery last week, I didn't think I was going to be able to go, but still hoped it might work out. Unfortunately, after my pre-op appt for surgery, the doc brought me back to reality and I knew that wasn't going to be an option. Plus, now with the swelling in my foot it certainly wouldn't have been a possibility.

Barrie called and told me that I didn't miss much and it was a good thing I didn't make the trip. She said they only talked with Kamar for a few minutes and she sent him my well wishes and he told her to tell me that he said hello and hoped I'd be on my feet again soon, or something like that...lol..... Too bad I couldn't join them and then hang with them. Hopefully I'll be able to go see them early next year and we can spend time together then.

Well, I'm heading off for now and hope you all have a terrific weekend!

With love,

Jenny-May

Progress.....or not.....

2008-12-12T17:42:00.004-06:00

So I went to the doc today and she changed my bandages. She said my foot is much more swollen than she'd hoped, so she said more elevation and ice. That's all I've been doing, so not sure how much "more" I can do. I guess I'll leave the ice on longer than originally recommended and see if it helps. Good news is she doesn't think it is anything to prevent my trip home. I have to go back to see her on Mon morning and then hopefully the swelling will be down where it should be.

All I saw when she re-wrapped it was an "icky purple fat foot!" lol So, I'm really hoping when it heals, the scar isn't too bad and it goes back to it's normal size. OK - enough of that - I don't want to make everyone sick! ;-)

Better news, I should have my cool new phone on Monday!!! YAY!!! I can't wait to play with it on the train! It might even make me text more with a full keyboard! Gotta love technology - sometimes, anyway! lol

Your technically and walkingly challenged friend,

Jenny-May

OK - so I know that's not a word, but it works better that way! ;-)

Up and movin' around...a little, anyway....

2008-12-11T18:43:00.004-06:00

Well, after staying in bed with my foot up all day yesterday, I decided to go to the recliner today. I needed a change of scenery, I think. lol I still can't believe how lucky I am to have a friend like Barb, who is willing to help out so much. I don't know what I'd do without her. Having her help me also puts Mom at ease, so she doesn't worry so much. Thanks so much, Barb!!! You and Bill are the best!!!

So, I've decided to upgrade my cell phone and step into a new world. I'm getting an HTC Touch Diamond. Hopefully it won't take me the entire next year to figure out how to use it! lol It's a pretty neat little contraption, though! I can't wait to get it and start playing! Yippee!!! I guess it will help pass the 24+ hours I'll be on the train!

Wishing you all a wonderful weekend,

Jenny-May

Day after surgery...

2008-12-10T12:54:00.003-06:00

Howdy all! I just thought I'd post a quick note today. Surgery went well and I'm resting at my friend, Barb's house. She and her husband, Bill, have been so good to me and I could never thank them enough! I'm so blessed to have such wonderful and caring friends! Plus, now Mom doesn't have to worry because she knows Barb and what a great friend she is to me.

I've been sleeping off and on since yesterday after surgery. I fell asleep on the way home from the clinic and missed lots of excitement, apparently. There were lots of traffic issues everywhere and the driver of an 18 wheeler was running from police. Thank God that we weren't on that part of the beltway! He ended up running his truck into a tree and they got him. There's always something crazy going on out here, that's for sure.

Once we got home, Barb got all of the stuff brought in and helped me in, too. Then we just relaxed downstairs for a while and had dinner. Shortly after dinner, I decided to head to bed and get some sleep - the meds were starting to kick in and I was dozing in the recliner! ha

Today has been much of the same - dozing off every now and then. Hopefully in a little while I'll be awake enough to get out of bed and venture downstairs. Who knows? It depends on how my foot is feeling, I guess. I haven't experienced any pain yet, to speak of, but because of the angle that my ankle is at from all of the bandages, it's starting to ache a bit. So, I just keep repositioning my foot to alleviate the strain.

So, all is well for now! I hope you are all well, too, and have a great day!

Cheers,

Jenny-May

Last one for a few days...

2008-12-08T22:17:00.002-06:00

Hi there everyone! I just wanted to pop in and post a quick note. I go in at 9 in the morning for surgery, so this will be the last blog until I am coherent enough to write again. I don't expect that to be before Thursday, but I'll do my best!

Today was a pretty crazy day at work for me, as I was trying to wrap things up so there wouldn't be any issues while I'm out for the next 3 weeks. Also, I had promised to help another instructor out with his class this afternoon, so I did that for a couple of hours, too. Just that little amount of time made me really miss being in the class room every day! Teaching is truly my calling, I believe, and I look forward to the day that I can get back to it full time! It really defines job satisfaction for me and I don't think I can ask for much more than that out of a career! So, as soon as I finish this career path, that will be my next!

Well, I better get to bed and get some rest so I'm ready for tomorrow. Wish me luck!

Sincerely,

Jenny-May

Baby It's COLD outside...

2008-12-07T18:02:00.003-06:00

Well, I had some errands to run today and visited with a couple of friends in the process. Then I decided to go pamper myself and get a manicure and pedicure since it will be at least a few months before I can do that again. I also did a little bit of shopping, which I hate, and was pleasantly surprised by how few people I had to deal with. The parking lots were nowhere near full anywhere and I didn't have to fight for a spot! YAY!!!

So, now I'm back in the house out of the COLD, and decided I'd blog. Two in one day, since technically when I got home from my crop last night it was today. lol Now, I have to get my stuff together and get ready for surgery now. My friend, Barb, is kind enough that she's taking me to surgery and then taking me home with her for a few days so I have someone to help me out. I'm not sure I'll be up to blogging for a couple of days after surgery, but I promise I'll post something as soon as I can and let you all know I'm OK. Then, on Fri I go back to the doc for my follow up and will hopefully find out then when I can start walking again and when I might be able to drive again. As long as everything is good to go, I'll be on the train headed back to Illinois on the 16th. Home for the Holidays!!!!! Yippee!!!!! I can't wait!!

Have a great week, everyone!

Jenny-May

End of the day....somewhere...

2008-12-06T23:38:00.003-06:00

Today I got to see a bunch of friends that I haven't seen since before I deployed. I headed to Lexington Park for a crop that my friend, Kristie, organizes. It's a crop that raises money for phone cards and care packages to send to deployed troops. It's a pretty awesome organization that Kristie and her friend, Julie, co-founded and it really makes a difference. Visit their website, www.scrappingforsoldiers.com and check it out. They have raised an amazing amount to support the troops! It always touches me to see all of the work that the ladies there making cards and bringing in donations for care packages. They truly care and it shows in their actions! They definitely put others before themselves. It truly means a lot to us when we're deployed and away from our family and home to get something from back here. It means more to us than many will ever know.

Serving with Pride & Honor,

Jenny-May

The Weekend is Here...

2008-12-05T18:40:00.003-06:00

I realized last night when I went to bed that I forgot to blog yesterday. You didn't miss anything, though. It was a pretty boring day with nothing exciting to blog about.

So, I'll be taking the train from Baltimore to Washington, D.C. to Chicago to Galesburg. I leave one day around 1:00PM and arrive the next day at 4:30PM. I guess I'll have lots of time to read and stuff on the train. Hopefully the weather is good and I can see the scenery from here to there. That would be nice.

What is everyone doing for the holidays? I'd love for you all to post comments and share your plans. Maybe I'll be able to catch up with some of you while I'm home!

See you soon ,

Jenny-May

Life's little curve balls...

2008-12-03T19:14:00.007-06:00

So, I'm having surgery on my foot next week. In my perfect little world, I thought I'd be fine to drive a few days after and be ready to fly home for Christmas. Well, the Doc brought me back to reality today at my pre-op appt! lol So, I guess I won't be driving for a while after surgery and I have to have a "baby sitter" for the first 72 hrs after surgery. YAY!! lol

The good news is - I will still be coming home, but on a train instead of a plane. Complications could arise from flying so soon after surgery, so I had to come up with another option. A different trip, for sure, but I still get to come home to spend Christmas with my family - and the "Gold" ones - that's all that matters! So, let me know what everyone's plans are for the holidays. I'd love to see as many of you as possible! Drop me a line or leave a comment.

I'll be home for Christmas....

You can count on me!

Please have snow.....ok - forget it - don't really need that! lol

See you soon,

Jenny-May

And here's a cute little quiz you can take that a friend had on their blog! See what your family is like!

Your Christmas is Most Like: A Charlie Brown Christmas

Each year, you really get into the spirit of Christmas.

Which is much more important to you than nifty presents.

What Movie Is Your Christmas Most Like?

Busy day....

2008-12-02T22:24:00.003-06:00

Well, today was a pretty packed day, so not much time to write. After work I met some of my "silver" friends for dinner then we went to a terrific seminar by Ilene Meckley who does motivational speaking. What an incredible story she has and speech she gives! It was a great night spent with friends! Thanks ladies!!

Sweet dreams all,

Jenny-May

Silver and Gold...

2008-12-01T18:30:00.003-06:00

You all probably know the old song, "Make new friends, but keep the old - one is silver and the other gold." OK - actually I think it's a girl scout thing, but anyway.....I've started my blog talking about the things that matter to me the most - my family and friends. Today I was pleasantly surprised by an email from an old friend - one who goes all the way back to grade school! Amazing, isn't it! lol Anyway, I was thrilled to get that email and then when I logged into the blog, I see that another friend who I've known since my early Army days has been around, too! Thanks bunches Ray and Theresa - my blog is doing exactly what I wanted it to do. My Mom even stopped by and left a comment, as have Tina and Barb, who are the ones who inspired me to start this little meadow - my place to frolic and play and stay in touch with the important people in my life! BTW - for those of you who don't understand the name I've chosen for my blog, in time you will.

Actually, for those of you who think you've already figured it out, I'd love to hear your thoughts on what you think it means. Add a comment and let me know!

So, today I am going to simply reiterate how much my family and friends mean to me and how lucky I am to have them all in my life! Everyone be sure you take time to tell those you love how much they mean to you. Life's too short not to and you never know what tomorrow may bring!

God bless you all,

Jenny-May

Now what?

2008-11-30T14:41:00.002-06:00

Well, I promise today won't go as long as yesterday did! I guess I just can't help it when I talk about my amazing family. So, today I just want to post a short and simple appreciation for another wonderful group of people in my life - My Friends!

After 17 years in the Army I have developed some terrific lifelong friendships. The environment we live in tends to make your friendships closer than most normal situations. I have been blessed with some very special people in my life, some that I have know since my first couple of years in the Army. Some of them are no longer in, as they have separated or retired and moved on with the next chapters of their lives, others are stationed throughout Europe and the US, while, unfortunately, others are currently in Iraq (be safe and take care of you) and Afghanistan. Regardless of where you are all located, you are always in my thoughts and prayers and I am so very thankful to have been able to share parts of my life with you.

The wonderful friendships that have developed through my travels are also very special to me. I have some wonderful friends throughout the States that have had a huge impact on my life, as well as the person I've become. I will soon (in the April timeframe) be heading back to the wonderful state of Texas, to San Antonio, for what will likely be the final chapter in my Army journey. I am thrilled to know that some of those awesome friends won't be very far away and I'll be able to see them again. I'm sure some road trips to San Angelo will be in order! I also always look forward to heading back to the wonderful state of Florida and seeing friends there. I'm sure one of those two states will be my home in retirement, and I will be looking forward to that chapter in a couple of years.

Of course, with each move there are more friends that must be left behind as I embark on the next phase. I will truly miss the wonderful friendships I have developed here in Maryland and will look forward to future visits! So, I just want to say to all of my amazing friends that you, too, have helped to mold and shape me into the person I have become and for that I am grateful! You all mean the world to me and will forever hold your own special places in my heart.

With love,

Jenny-May

aka Menny-Jay ;-)

My Very First Blog

2008-11-29T17:32:00.005-06:00

Well, after spending a couple of days with a very dear friend who recently started blogging, I think I've been bitten by the blogging bug! I figured it was time to just jump right in and get started. Why wait - there's no time like the present, right?! ;-)

So, my goal is to do daily updates, but reality says that likely won't happen. I will aim to do it and hope you'll understand if I miss a day or two, or three....lol....here and there.

So, for my first post, I just want to focus on the things that truly matter to me the most - my treasured loved ones - my wonderful family. At this time of year as the holiday season begins, having just enjoyed Thanksgiving, it seems fitting to say how thankful I am for my amazing family. I am the luckiest girl in the world to have a supportive, understanding and very loving family behind me.

My Mom is my best friend and the best Mom in the world and my Daddy is a rock - I will always be a Daddy's Girl and I'm very proud of that fact! Pops and Jayne are the best step-parents anyone could ever ask for. They are both very supportive and loving and treat my sister and I as if we were their own children. Speaking of my sister, Dee is an inspiration to us all as she has built a nice little life for her and Baylee. Dee has become more than a sister, but a true friend and I treasure our time spent together. As for that darling little niece of mine, Baylee, she is the light of my life. She is why I do what I do - she makes serving my country mean so much more to me and puts so many things into perspective for me. She has been "my little angel girl" since the day she was born and will forever remain that special little blessing for us all.

Then, giving us all a wonderful example to follow, has been Gram, who is one of the greatest people in all of the world. I will forever cherish the times spent with Grandma and Grandpa as a little girl, and continue to treasure each moment I spend with Gram when I'm home. I am a very lucky girl to have two terrific women rounding things out, Grandma Irma and Grandma Roxie have both been huge supporters and wonderful additions to our family, too.

I was lucky enough to grow up living near Mom's only sister, Aunt Fay, who along with Uncle Larry and Debbie, Tim and Cindy have always been a very special and close extended family for us. Dee and I are very blessed to have been able to grow up in such a close and supportive environment and we owe it all to our terrific family. Of course there are lots of others, but unfortunately, distance has made it difficult to really know a lot of Daddy's side of the family. I know enough, however, to know that growing up in a family with 13 children makes for lots more wonderful family members and am blessed to know some of them very well. I only wish we all were closer growing up instead of being so far away from each other.

So, ultimately, I am proud to say the reason I am the person I've become is because of all of the truly inspirational and loving and supportive members of my family who have shown me the person I wanted to be. I continue to work towards that person each day and hope to one day achieve the dream and make them all as proud that I am a part of their family and life as I am that they are all a part of mine! I love you all with everything that I am!

Always and forever,

Your Soldier girl

Jenny-May's Joyous Meadow

Where does the time go???

Day 30: Today I am thankful . . .

Day 29: Today I am thankful for...

Day 27: Thankful today for . . .

30 Days of Thankfulness . . .

Day 22: Today I'm thankful for...

Day 21: Today I'm thankful for...

Day 20: Today I'm thankful for...

Thankfulness for Day 18 and 19...

Day 17: Commercial travel...

Day 16: Today I am thankful for...

the ability to work for myself, out of my home, and interact with and meet a lot of wonderful women in the process! The relationships that I am building are priceless! Thank you Close To My Heart! ♥

Blessings to you all,Jenny-May

Today I am thankful for...

Day 14: Today I am thankful for patience.

Today I am thankful for technology...

Day 12: Today I'm thankful for...

Day 11: On 11:11:11 I'm thankful for my FREEDOM,

10th Day of Thankfulness...

Day 9: Today I'm thankful for...

8th day of Thankfulness...

Today I am thankful for golf.

Day 6 of Thankfulness...

Today I am thankful for...

4th Day of Thankfulness...

30 Days of Thankfulness...

Back in San Antonio...

Time with friends and family...

Another month has come and gone...

I know...it's been a while once again...

Attention Scrapbookers and Stampers...

Check out my Close to My Heart Blog...ABCHearts

Where Has the Time Gone?

Studio J™ goes LIVE FOR CUSTOMERS on 27 April!!!

Cool little buddy...

Coming home...

Lovin' CTMH's new Studio J™

National Papercrafting Month

Last chance for Holiday Heyday tomorrow!

No longer in a cast...

I'll Be Home for Christmas!

Holiday Heyday sale, CTMH style!

Last day of STAMPAGANZA - buy 2 get 1 free

Just wanted to share with ya'll, too...

Happy Thanksgiving to all!

Updates from San Antonio...

Back from the doc...again...

Happy Veteran's Day!

Back from the doc...

Howdy, ya'll!

Long day today...

Think I figured out the prob with the meds....

Won't be on much for a couple of days...

Twice in a week now...

Another weekend comes to an end...

So, it's been a little more than "a while"....

"Soon" definitely wasn't the right word...

It's been a while...

Back in Illinois...

The fun begins.....

Long time, no blog...

Happy Sunday!

Happy Valentine's Day...

It's been a while...

San Antonio bound......in April!

Howdy, all!!!

Back in Annapolis now...

Bein' back home....away from home

Heading to Texas...

Howdy again!

Happy New Year!!!

HOME at last....THANK GOD!

Time at home coming to an end...

Day after Christmas...

Merry Christmas!!!

Staying at my sister's...

HOME.....FINALLY!!!

Tired of being lazy.....

Progress.....or not.....

Blessings to you all,
Jenny-May