Thinking Out Loud

A Following

2010-10-27T21:24:00.004-04:00

I recognize the value of social networking. I think I need more exposure.
Follow me @ IAm_TracieRenee.

Labor Day Follow Up

2010-09-13T17:30:00.004-04:00

I DID IT!!!

(God enabled me to of course.)

5 short and sweet hours of labor. (It took me 1 hour to realize thatit was the real thing.) Anyway. I had an all natural labor. No meds. No epidural. No compromises. Thank God. It was great. My hubby helped me through it all. We didn't even have time to use all of our alternative/complementary methods (jacuzzi tub, birthing ball, music, aromatherapy). It was time and there was no turning back.

Our baby boy is 5 weeks old now. Time flies. Even though I would love to write more, it is a bit challenging holding him and typing away. And when my body says nap, I listen. So even if he is alseep, I probably am too! We will make strides soon though and be able to incorporate blogging into our daily activities. After all, I'm doing it now.

Until then...

Watch and Wait for God

2010-07-28T17:30:00.003-04:00

I search for God and His messages. Don’t take even the smallest thing for granted because it may be an opportunity to encounter God.

As I rest at home, enjoying every minute of peace and relaxation, there is anticipation in the air. In no way am I in a rush for our child to be born. God has numbered his days and He ultimately knows when he will arrive. God’s timing and plan are perfect, so I have removed myself from the equation as I surrender to God.

With that being said, all week the weather forecast said that there would be a thunderstorm today. For once, man’s weather forecast lined up with God’s and I shared some much needed time with my God as He spoke directly to my spirit.

It began to get a bit dark outside. I could see the clouds rolling in from the west as I sat at the computer. Since we generally don’t use our electronic devices during storms, I closed the computer and looked out of the windows of our home. (God knew I would.) You see, on the west side of the house, the rain was already pouring down, but to the east, not so much. Our local news interrupted regularly scheduled programming to tell us it was raining. (lol. Thanks Stan.) As the raining began to fall hard and steady and move across the house, it was becoming noticeably stronger on the east side of the house. As I looked out of the window, I saw a bird perched on our fence. This appeared to be a rather large bird that was not at all phased by the approaching storm. I stared at the bird initially thinking “What is it doing.” (This was all a set up.) Not only did the bird not move a muscle, or wing, it seemingly started to stretch as the rain poured from the sky. This bird leaned from side to side; lifting one wing at a time, marveling in the passing storm. I was fascinated. The bird did not move other than to embrace the heavy rain that all others had disappeared from. The bird sat and waited, almost as if it knew the storm wouldn’t last long and that even at this time, it needed to soak up all the storm had to offer.

Why was I so fascinated by this bird? You see, God was speaking to me. God showed me that as I am now at home, at peace, waiting on my fence (exercise ball) with the sun shining and blue skies; that a bit of a storm is coming my way. One that I’ve never experienced, yet, one that will not last very long. God showed/reinforced in me that I have a choice. I could run for cover like all the other animals seemed to do or I could just wait patiently for what will be poured out upon me. As I go through what I must, just like that bird, I can stretch out, moving in whatever manner I must but embracing the beauty of the storm. That bird showed no fear. The circumstance didn’t change its position. It waited and enjoyed the storm. The bird instinctively knew that besides the fact the it was going through a storm, that it could do nothing about, what the storm would bring (food) was well worth the wait.

I wondered how long the bird would sit there. It did not move until the storm had been over for a while. It seemed to process what had just taken place; almost seeming rejuvenated. Then it shook itself off, looked around, and flew off.

You see, I plan to do things naturally. No interventions before, during or after. Simply trusting God to do what He always does. God created this marvelous body, that has not ceased to amaze me. He made no mistakes in what it could do. So I have a choice, I could run from the inevitable that lies ahead, seeking medicine or other interventions or I can embrace it, leaning and depending on God who gets me through everything anyway. There is a gift waiting on the other side of the storm. One greater than I could ever ask for or imagine.

I have enjoyed every part of this journey and will continue to because my mind is not focused on me, but on God. His plan and purpose are what matter. I want to honor Him with my life, my choices, and my reverence for Him.

So you better believe that while we are going through our little storm, I’ll be reflecting on that bird; steadfast, stretching and enjoying every minute of what was taking place; waiting for the bounty that waits on the other side.

I thank God for how He speaks to me and every wonderful moment that we share. There is no one like my God. He is marvelous, magnificent and Almighty!

Don’t be fooled by the moments in which our world says different. Don’t take your eyes or ears off of Him. Satan desires to sift you as wheat(Luke 22:31). The question is, will you let him?

Thank you Lord!

You will keep in perfect peace him whose mind is steadfast, because he trusts in you. -Isaiah 26:3

You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. -Jeremiah 29:13

My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. -John 10:27

Fabricated Friday's- LeBron Edition

2010-07-09T12:30:00.001-04:00

I tried to refrain from commenting, however; this is simply ridiculous.

#1- Why burn LeBron's jersey that you purchased with your own money? Are you really hurting him or did you just throw away your own $50?

#2- Was LeBron truly the only role model in Cleveland and all of Northeast Ohio? I think not. And if this is what you believe, you need to be evaluating your own life. Why are you not the role model that your children and those around you need to have in their lives?

#3- Does LeBron owe you anything? No, not at all. Are you that helpless and hopeless that you have hooked your claws into this young black man, who consulted with God and his family about his decision and then made an educated choice, refusing to let him live his life based on his purpose and not your own?

#4- What would you say about him as a man and player if he simply stayed in Cleveland to appease the crowd, never realizing a championship? Something like, he could have been the best player ever, but he never won a ring. Right?

#5- If you truly wanted him to stay in Cleveland, what were you doing about it? I saw the children and their pleas for him to stay, but did you win over any other players, who you would ultimately hold responsible for saving the livelihood of a less than prospering city, to come and join him on the court? Do you ever question why common citizens leave the city, let alone a man with a prosperous career who was presented with awesome opportunities?

#6- Why is this matter getting more attention than education, healthcare and the economy put together? If you had your priorities straight, you would understand how utterly ridiculous this matter is and recognize the things that really matter in this life.

#7- Are you really mad at LeBron or at yourself for not having anything better to do or look forward to than watching him play basketball? If you had your own goals and aspirations and were actually striving to achieve them, I don't think you'd have the time to care as much.

#8- To the owner: If you couldn't win with him, how in the world do you think you're going to win without him? You took the time to call LeBron a former hero displaying cowardly betrayal because your feelings are hurt. You, however; are the one displaying villainous behavior sprinkled with a lack a class and duplicity. Instead of taking the opportunity to uplift the man or simply saying nothing, you demonstrated exactly why no one wanted to join your team. Silly man.

#9- When was the last time you've been to Miami? Let's think... Cleveland-Miami, Cleveland-Miami... Trust me people. You would choose Miami over Cleveland without anyone paying you a dime. At least he's getting paid in the process.

#10- Have you ever noticed how people from Cleveland truly believe that they live in Paris or the Swiss Alps? I really don't blame them for behaving this way because they are truly ingrained with the belief that their city has it all, is all and is better than all. I knew this as a child and I live with a Clevelander! (Love you Babe) Generally, people at least respect the cities that they were raised in, but please engage in serious dialogue with someone from this city and you will at least partially understand why they are sooo upset with LeBron.

Anyhow... Best wishes LeBron, Cleveland and Miami. You all make millions more than the rest of us Americans who go to work everyday because we have to, not because we enjoy the work that we do. (Bitter snide comment- sorry!) But seriously, you live this life once. Make the best of it and enjoy every step of the way!

Laughter is Good for the Soul

2010-06-29T05:52:00.002-04:00

I thought this was hilarious. Hope it gives you the laugh you needed today!

Good Samari- Mr. Tortoise

2010-06-25T06:31:00.001-04:00

I've always had a thing for turtles. Hard on the outside, soft on the inside, wins each race in their own time & on their own terms & never hesitant to crawl back in their shell and mind their own business! No matter what, they will take the time to help a friend in need when necessary. Watch the video.

Click link below
Sweet Video of the Good Samari-tortoise

Ohio Kids Stage Flash Mob for LeBron James

2010-06-23T08:48:00.000-04:00

They put lots of effort into this. I know he has to do what's best for himself and his family but the decision won't be easy!

Ohio Kids Stage Flash Mob for LeBron James

Cruise Ship Birth Surprise to Mother

2010-06-10T08:35:00.000-04:00

Cruise Ship Birth Surprise to Mother

Fabricated Friday's- Cake!

2010-05-28T06:00:00.002-04:00

The 'Cake Boss' Predicts Third Season Will Be 'Crazier'

I love watching cake boss! If you've never seen it you should check it out. The creativity and artistic ability is awesome. Makes me want to go decorate something. The family can be hilarious too. Find some time to check it out.

Lions & Tigers & Bears- Oh MY!

2010-05-24T06:00:00.000-04:00

This is too funny!
If you weren't afraid of bears before, you might be after this.

Will U Be Mine?

2010-05-19T06:00:00.000-04:00

Play Date
(Click the above link)

It's Q & U forever!!!!

I Plan to Live to 110!

2010-05-12T06:00:00.002-04:00

This is exactly how I picture myself at 101!

Life is what you make it. Don't waste any time & enjoy it to the fullest extent!

Mother and Son Survive Breast Cancer, Double Mastectomies - AOL Health

2010-05-11T06:00:00.001-04:00

Mother and Son Survive Breast Cancer, Double Mastectomies - AOL Health

Read this article. Men can have cancer too! Do not take information like this lightly.

Happy Mother's Day!!!

2010-05-09T06:00:00.005-04:00

Happy Mother's Day Moms & Moms-to-Be. What an awesome experience this journey is. I'm sure each day will continue to be filled with fun and excitment. I'm so thankful for our little blessing! Have a great day!

(Breakfast in bed, a beautiful bouquet of flowers, what's next?!)

I'm having a great day & hope you do too!

Loving Me & You

2010-05-02T06:00:00.001-04:00

It is amazing how many different comments you'll hear when you're pregnant. Everyone means well, but again you will realize how many perspectives there are and how unique we are all created to be. 100 people looking at exactly the same thing will bring 100 various imaginations and points of views. I'm learning how to embrace them all, as it simply expresses God's creative power. How boring we would be if we all shared the same perspective.

Embrace who you are and how you are at this very moment, as well as those around you. Learn to appreciate others as we are all created in God's image. We can never fully relate to God or love unconditionally if we close ourselves off to innumerable perspectives that continuously surround us.

I thank God for helping me to love myself and others.

I couldn't do either without Him!

Maternity Style- Part 4

2010-05-01T06:00:00.004-04:00

Maternity Yoga Capris found at Old Navy

(Great for prenatal & postnatal yoga!)

Maternity Ruched Tank Dress found at Old Navy

(Great dress for a picnic in the park or a casual summer day!)

Maternity Wrap-Front Fleece Hoodie found at Old Navy

(For that cool summer breeze or over air-condidtioned event!)

Grandparents.com

2010-04-30T06:00:00.007-04:00

Yesterday, on Wednesday I received a message from Pampers.com. It is one of the thirty emails that I receive daily from various baby and parenting sites. (I'm in the process of unsubscribing from half of them.) I enjoyed reading The New Grandparent Guide and sent it off to my parents and my hubby's parents.

What initially caught my attention was the fact that it was something just for them. I receive hundreds of emails a week telling me what's going on with our baby and describing the millions of products now on the market. Since we live a few hours away, I immediately thought that this would be a great way for them to feel more connected, learn a few tips and maybe begin a new network as they begin on this new journey.

As life continues, we all constantly evolve, grow and need to be open to new experiences. I know how much I'm learning daily and I think it's wonderful that they have an opportunity to do the same.

Grandparents.com appears to be a great site. Plus, the grandparents guide had tons of great information in it.

Although, I anticipate smooth sailing with our new addition, the reality of how much has changed in 30 years is real. We've gone from the walkman to mp3 players and ipods; from actually talking on the phone to texting and social networking; & from typewriters to ipads and blackberrys.

It appears that these resources will allow us to bridge the gap in a less abrasive manner, while potentially opening up lines of communication on topics that are usually swept under the rug or harbored for years to come.

If you are, or know of, a new grandparent, please send them this information. Grandparents want to be involved and should be involved. Let's help one another along this journey that will provide a lifetime a memories. Let them be delightful and full of love!!!

Words of Wisdom

2010-04-29T06:00:00.003-04:00

I found this on Shelby's blog and I just had to share it also.

Written By Regina Brett, 90 years old, of The Plain Dealer, Cleveland, Ohio

"To celebrate growing older, I once wrote the 45 lessons life taught me. It is the most-requested column I've ever written.

My odometer rolled over to 90 in August, so here is the column once more:

1. Life isn't fair, but it's still good.

2. When in doubt, just take the next small step.

3. Life is too short to waste time hating anyone.

4. Your job won't take care of you when you are sick. Your friends and parents will. Stay in touch.

5. Pay off your credit cards every month.
6. You don't have to win every argument. Agree to disagree.

7. Cry with someone. It's more healing than crying alone.

8. It's OK to get angry with God. He can take it.

9. Save for retirement starting with your first paycheck.

10. When it comes to chocolate, resistance is futile.

11. Make peace with your past so it won't screw up the present.

12. It's OK to let your children see you cry.

13. Don't compare your life to others. You have no idea what their journey is all about.

14. If a relationship has to be a secret, you shouldn't be in it.

15. Everything can change in the blink of an eye. But don't worry; God never blinks.

16. Take a deep breath. It calms the mind.

17. Get rid of anything that isn't useful, beautiful or joyful.

18. Whatever doesn't kill you really does make you stronger.

19. It's never too late to have a happy childhood. But the second one is up to you and no one else.

20. When it comes to going after what you love in life, don't take no for an answer.

21. Burn the candles, use the nice sheets, wear the fancy lingerie. Don't save it for a special occasion. Today is special.

22. Over prepare, then go with the flow.

23. Be eccentric now. Don't wait for old age to wear purple.

24. The most important sex organ is the brain.

25. No one is in charge of your happiness but you.

26. Frame every so-called disaster with these words 'In five years, will this matter?'

27. Always choose life.

28. Forgive everyone everything.

29. What other people think of you is none of your business.

30. Time heals almost everything. Give time time.

31. However good or bad a situation is, it will change.

32. Don't take yourself so seriously. No one else does.

33. Believe in miracles.

34. God loves you because of who God is, not because of anything you did or didn't do.

35. Don't audit life. Show up and make the most of it now.

36. Growing old beats the alternative -- dying young.

37. Your children get only one childhood.

38. All that truly matters in the end is that you loved.

39. Get outside every day. Miracles are waiting everywhere.

40. If we all threw our problems in a pile and saw everyone else's, we'd grab ours back.

41. Envy is a waste of time. You already have all you need.

42. The best is yet to come...

43. No matter how you feel, get up, dress up and show up.

44. Yield.

45. Life isn't tied with a bow, but it's still a gift.

This woman is really 54. Check out her blog:

http://www.reginabrett.com/blog.php

Push Pass the Pain

2010-04-28T06:00:00.002-04:00

Okay, so I'm not at all doing well with the concept of leaving my child at daycare... Pray with me, as I am anticipating miracles.

My Blogging Background

2010-04-27T06:00:00.002-04:00

What do you think about my blog's new look? I think it was well overdue. I needed to add a splash of color to the scene.

Is it overwhelming, boring, pleasant, so-so, just right, now you can't find anything, needs to be rearranged.... What do you think?

You feedback would be helpful. Thanks!

Toledo Baby, Child & Family Expo Update

2010-04-26T06:00:00.004-04:00

The expo was fun. I'm glad that I participated. There were not thousands of people gauking at us during the show so I wasn't really nervous at all. It was short and sweet. Something fun to do and add to the baby books! I even won a prize just as I was walking out of the door. Lots of great info, free massage, fun with family and friends- what more can you ask for?

Happy Monday!!!

Toledo Baby & Family Expo

2010-04-25T06:00:00.007-04:00

Today I get to do something a bit out of the box. I'm modeling maternity clothing in a fashion show held at Westfield Shopping Center. I hear there will be thousands of people which makes me a bit nervous, but you only live once right. As long as I don't over-heat, we'll be fine. I hope to have a great time and something fun to talk about in the future. I've been catching up on America's Next Top Model episodes just to be on the safe side! lol.

Check out the clothing boutique for whom I will be modeling:

Sassy Belly located in Sylvania, OH

http://www.sassybelly.com/

Maternity Style- Part 3

2010-04-24T06:00:00.009-04:00

Blessed Belly Tee found at Blessence Maternity

(When you sit back & think about the miracle of life, this shirt says it all!)

Match Made in Heaven Tee found at Blessence Maternity

(Enough said!)

Miracle in the Making Tee found at Blessence Maternity

(I believe in Miracles!)

Fabricated Friday's- Confessions of a Flight Attendant

2010-04-23T06:00:00.001-04:00

Confessions of a Flight Attendant by Bobby Laurie

(Article found on AOL)

It's been said that becoming a flight attendant isn't just a job, but a lifestyle. How true! Every day brings a new airplane, a new set of passengers and a new destination.

I've been a flight attendant for five years, working for a regional, a legacy, and now, a low-cost airline. Though each airline flew different airplanes to different destinations, the life of a flight attendant is generally the same industry-wide.

In the United States, seniority is everything. Your seniority position within your airline dictates everything from the routes you fly to how much you get paid. New-hire flight attendants are at the bottom of the seniority list; they fly on "reserve" status, meaning they are always "on call" in case a more senior crew member calls in sick or, due to weather, the airline needs to re-staff a particular flight. As your seniority grows, you eventually reach the level of "line holder," where you can hold a monthly schedule of flying assignments, rather than on-call status. "Becoming a line holder is what every flight attendant dreams of," said Sara Keagle, a flight attendant at a legacy U.S. airline. "It finally gives you the flexibility to plan your life outside of work."

Being a flight attendant is adventurous: No two days are ever the same, and you never know whom you might meet.

"When he boarded the plane I wasn't sure if it was him or not, so I had to walk past him a few times," Anne Galvez, a flight attendant at a domestic low-cost carrier, recalled about meeting her celebrity crush Val Kilmer on a flight. "Of all the days this could have happened, I had minimum makeup on; so I ran into the restroom, pulled myself together and got to take a photo with him."

Aside from celebrities, everyday people can also make your day all the more interesting.

I recall a flight from Los Angeles to Washington D.C. when an elderly lady boarded the aircraft with a note that read: "I'm traveling to Washington D.C. to visit my son and I am blind and deaf. For my comfort I would like to request an aisle seat, a pillow and a blanket, and milk to drink." I quickly walked her over to her seat, sat her down and buckled her in. I treated her like I would my own grandmother in this situation, taking into account the fact that she couldn't hear or see me.

A few hours into the flight, the fasten-seat-belt sign came on just as she stood up to make her way to the restroom. I quickly ran to guide her back to her seat. As I took her by the hand, she turned to me and said, "where are you taking me?" I jumped back, shocked that she spoke to me. I asked if she could hear me and she replied, "Yes, why wouldn't I be able to?" I laughed and told her that the note she handed me stated that she was deaf.

She then said with a chuckle: "My son wrote that note and told me to show it to anyone I met while traveling. I didn't even read it, but he said that it would take care of me getting on and off the plane first, and something to eat."

And there are dozens more stories like this one! Thus, a flight attendant needs to possess poise, patience, flexibility, and a big sense of humor and adventure.

Think, Pray, Love

2010-04-22T06:00:00.004-04:00

"Change your thoughts, and you change your world."

~Norman Vincent Peale

"But as for me, my prayer is to you, O LORD. At an acceptable time, O God, in the abundance of your steadfast love answer me in your saving faithfulness."

~Psalm 69:13(ESV)

"What most people need to learn in life is how to love people and use things instead of using people and loving things."

~Unknown

These quotes and scripture express the way I feel about thinking, prayer & love and have influenced the new title of my blog.