My Big Life

As most know, I work at Johnny's BBQ. Some would perhaps think this is an underachievement. Honestly, if I had a degree, I would be making more money doing something else. But...I truly love my job. The people that I get to work with and spend my day with are the absolute best people in the world. Or at least this county. I have a big life. I am lucky to know and learn from these people. And they will hurt people for me if I need them to.

I work with women who are making it somehow. Many single moms, young ladies going to school and working, married women trying to work and raise children and stay married. People who have been there and done that. These are women who are strong. I have the utmost and highest regard and respect for all of them. And to top it off, they are funny. What more could I ask for? And at the helm of it all is my boss Johnny, who I consider to be the George Bailey (It's a Wonderful Life) of Keystone Heights. Enough sucking up. I just had a good night last night and needed to gush.

Johnny, I need a raise.

The good

How far...

It is amazing to me when I am reminded in some small way of the despair that I used to live in. I am rescued. Some songs remind me of those times. They were my prayers, which to some may seem strange. I just couldn't come up with words anymore. I had gone from hitting my face on walls in the dark to just sitting there. Waiting. Or not. I feel the Sun now. Nothing is a guarantee, so I won't get too comfortable. But I like the warmth.

The success of love is in the loving - it is not in the result of loving. Of course it is natural in love to want the best for the other person, but whether it turns out that way or not does not determine the value of what we have done.
Mother Teresa

I am constantly reminded that my job is not to orchestrate how things turn out, although I learn this from constantly doing just that. I can only love and hope.

Some Mooney pics.....

For those who don't know, Kamron Mooneyham is my dear friend. He is a Marine and is going to Afganistan soon. This was a going away gathering at my house. Like Forest Gump, that is all I will say about that.

The gang
Mooney and Tori
Mooney and Bradley
Me and Mooney. I realize I look like a cougar in this picture. I am sorry. I just jumped over. Let the comments begin.
A very smart looking couple. God, he is gorgeous.

Some pics from Jenn...

This is me, Kelly (my boss/yoga partner/dancer at any time), and my Jenny Jenn Jenn! I sacrificed here. I hate this picture of me, and yet, the others looked so lovely.

These are some more pictures that Jenn gave me from her camera. She is my paparazzi. Thank God she is recording my life and the lives of my children. One less thing....


(above)These are my 5 beautiful children. It was taken at Evan's 16th birthday party.


This is the family picture after Evan's football game in October.


In the bleachers.


My sweet, wonderful, perfect stud-- Tracy. And me. Dear Lord, I am becoming Carole. Oh, well.

yay!

I loved this moment when Tracy Porter sealed the deal. I am so happy for the Saints and the people of Louisiana. My mom said after the game, it sounded like the 4th of July with all the fireworks. I love Louisiana. They know how to celebrate and are never ashamed to do it. I wish the people I live with in FL could experience that spirit. It's so much fun. Congratulations to all!!

I am ready.