WORK CAMP

Where do I begin? We did a lot in three days! I'm so proud of the youth at Richardson East!
The youth group would occasionally split up and go to different locations. My little car transported teenagers all over the metroplex and we had so much fun! My first stop was to the Boys and Girls Club in Plano. We spent time playing games, reading, making crafts, and watching Veggie Tales with these kiddos. I hope they had fun with us there. Next, I went to the Achievement Center in Garland. This is where people with special needs are taken care of. I spent my day with two girls, Kiesha and Crystal. I remembered Kiesha from 2 years earlier when we were able to go swimming. I think she remembered that special day too. I never found out Kiesha's age, but she graduated high school in 2002. Crytal is 24. I can't imagine if my life were like their lives. Be grateful for the abilities that you have.

Later, we went to Central Dallas Ministries to work with their food pantry. Here, we stocked the shelves with food and took "neighbors" around to load their grocery carts. Falling on hard times occurs to males and females, young and old, and to all races. CDM has people that volunteer on a weekly basis and they are the true saints on this Earth. Also on this day, some teens helped clean out rooms at the church...the transformation was simply amazing. (We got free slurpees at 7-11 too!)
Today, we went to the North Texas Food Bank. Here, we packed boxes with food. Some boxes contained nothing but cereal, and others - nothing but drinks. Most of the boxes we filled with a variety of food. You name it, I packed it! Later in the day, we went to a nursing home in Richardson. We talked with the people there and sang to them. Mrs. Green claimed to be 106! (I'm not so sure!)
All in all, it was a great time to serve and have fun. These kids are great and know how to act everywhere they go. They must have some great parents!

Life Events

Michael and I spent the Fourth of July in Houston with Michael's sister. Little Matthew is growing up quickly and is nice and tan for the summer. He is 18 months old and super cute. I hope to be sent pictures soon to post on here.

Wednesday was my brother, Blake, and his daughter, Maddie's, birthdays! Blake turned the big 30 and Maddie is now 2! We celebrated with a party on Saturday. Pictures below:






Michael and I have been married 10 months now. It seems just like yesterday in one sense, but it also feels as if we've known each other our whole lives. God has blessed me so much with him as my husband and my best friend. He's been working really hard lately and deserves vacation time. He SHOULD be on vacation this time next week. Yay!



A great, godly man passed away on Tuesday. Alan Bryan was a traveling evangelist for a while, but I only knew him as the encouraging and wise man at church. His words were always uplifting and he brought smiles to every member of the congregation - young and old. They were handing out one of his books at the funeral home and Michael and I can't wait to read it. Praise God for the lives he touched.

This coming weekend will be the first weekend in a LONG while that we don't have a wedding to attend. So, hopefully Blake's family can join us for dinner Saturday. It is so wonderful to see so many of our friends committing themselves to God-centered marriages. Many of our friends have been wise in choosing their mate, or wise in choosing to stay single. I do rejoice that my single friends are remaining firm in their faith and not settling for someone unworthy.

I'll be involved with Work Camp this week. I ask for prayers that lives our touched and for safety. Have a blessed week!

God Bless America

Rick Monday saves the American Flag from being burnt. Chokes me up everytime.



Visit Joel's blog to read an article about it.

What's Happening

Saturday, Michael's mom and I went to get pedicures! We never do "fancy" things like this, so it was super fun for us. I love being able to wear sandals and flip flops everywhere. Flip flops are my most beloved item in my closet. Meanwhile, Michael and his dad tried to repair our sprinkler system. Hopefully one day they will get to do all that they want to do to that thing! I want my green grass back!

Later, M and I went to Ashley Parks and Nic Belcher's wedding. Super fun! I'm glad so many of our friends have found love and are joining us in the land of marriage!

I've been subbing for summer school since Friday. I'm so very grateful that I didn't teach full-time this summer. I really don't like going to school to teach right now. It was good to see that the kids have improved greatly in their 4 weeks of work. Teachers are making a difference, but thankfully, I'm only making a week of difference.

Michael and I have been spending a lot of time up on the roof lately. The add-on to our house has a flat roof. It is perfect if you bring a blanket, flashlight, and a Bible with you. We've had some awesome talks while we're up there. It feels like we're camping because we only see tree limbs and a starry sky. I'm going to miss these perfect summer evenings come Autumn.

I bought a new dress today! I have only one dress for an evening wedding. I went to an evening wedding last Saturday and will see the very same people for a wedding this Saturday night. I am helping out with the wedding, so I thought I should buy something special. It is a brown dress that looks an awful lot like my black dress but longer. With the different accessories, it will be a completely different outfit! I do like to dress up on occasion, but I would still rather wear my hockey sweater (jersey)!

We saw Nacho Libre last night. If you like Napolean Dynamite, you'll like this one too. It's not an instant classic like Napolean, but it's funny. I'm thinking about buying the movie when it comes out to improve my Spanish. There were so many phrases in Spanish!

Game 5...What was that?!?

Please, if you are a Mavs fan, read this article by Bill Simmons. It will get you energized for the next two games. I'm mad...stinking mad! GO MAVS!

Open Wide

I had the most dental work I've ever had done yesterday. (Well, excluding braces and wisdom teeth extractions. I'm talking about the work of a DENTIST.) My mom was a hygienist and always took care of my teeth. She was able to retire a couple of years ago, and it's obvious I still need her help to keep healthy teeth. Both Michael and I needed work, but I had the more costly and painful procedure. I am amazed at how little pain I go through at the dentist. Think about what they are actually doing...and you only feel a twinge of pain or pressure! Amazing! I still have to go in a couple more times, but I like everyone at this new place of dentistry. Mom, I miss you cleaning and polishing my teeth while I look out the wall of windows. Your office had a smell of that polishing stuff and I actually miss that. This new office burns a Yankee Candle which is nice, but it is not your office.

BTW, Laura, I'm on Michael's insurance, not the school's.

Oh Canada

I know that I'm posting a lot of videos, but I love some of these things. I'm watching Game 4 of the Stanley Cup Finals between the Canes and Oilers. They sing both the American and Canadian national anthem when both nations are playing. It is so cool to hear the people of Edmonton sing their national anthem. The video is from a previous game. (BTW, I honestly thought I wouldn't be watching the Mavs in June, but the Stars. Too bad this isn't Finals for both teams,)

AHHH!

This is what I found when I returned to my car at WalMart this morning! I totally didn't see it when I arrived, but it was directly behind my car while I was putting my groceries away. I did not get close to it in the least! I was so afraid that it would resurrect itself and get me. Please be careful- it's a scary world out there!

School's Out for the Summer!

I'm so very glad to be on vacation, but I feel like I've done more in the past week or so than I did during the school year!

The first official day w/o students, Michael and I had a few friends over for dinner and games. (Also, an unofficial Mavs/Rangers watching party.) It was so much fun! It was our first party as a married couple and homeowners. We broke out the china, goblets, and cloth napkins. I even learned how to fold the napkins to look all fancy! One couple was newly married (Landon and Jill) and the other just found out they were having a boy! (Alan and Rachel) We played the Newlywed Game and had a blast!

The next day, Caley was in town for a conference and we just had to get together. I told her recently that she is such a loyal friend. I am so thankful that we didn't have a 10 o'clock class our junior year and got to hang out every MWF in the campus center. She is such a blessing!

The following Monday, Michael and I had my parents, his parents, and his sister and her family over for a Memorial Day cookout! We felt weird that our families never see each other and thought this would be a good way for everyone to catch up. I loved watching my two dads discuss the most random things!

Thursday, Blake and Maddie came over for a visit. Maddie kept asking, "Where's Bikal?" She says Michael in the cutest way! Blake graciously took me to Midas a couple of times as we were trying to get my car in perfect condition for our trip to South Padre! Michael came home early and we had to take both our cars to an alignment and frame shop...they fixed my problem easily but Michael's car has some issues. We also found out there that Michael's battery was low. We went to our newly discovered WalMart, but they were out of the battery we needed. We then made our way to another WalMart and replaced the battery. I was glad our car-fixing trips were over at the end of the day.

Friday, Michael and I began our trip to South Padre Island for Kami's wedding. We made the five hour journey to San Antonio. Brett and Jenny were kind enough to let us crash at their beautiful new home. We got some time to play with Zachary and Ethan before they went to bed. We then relaxed in Brett and Jenny's hot tub. A lot of fun.

Saturday, we made our next 5 hour journey to South Padre. Kami married on the beach and had a reception on a boat. Really cool. I was happy to see her, Caley, Melissa, and Daniel. It had been a long time since I had seen them. (Well, Caley did come over earlier that week, but it had been months before then.) We didn't get off of the boat until 9 o'clock, so we didn't arrive back into San Antonio until 2:45 am. Blah!

Sunday, we spent our day on I-35. Bumper-to-bumper traffic in the middle of nowhere! Crazy. This made us miss our first Life Group Meeting. :(

Monday...I got to relax while Michael went back to work. Summers are great! I think my friend, Shannon, may have had a baby girl this day. Still haven't heard.

Today, I spent most of my time trying to figure out if I could consolidate my student loans and trying to find a good dentist that was covered by our insurance. Michael's dad came over for dinner. Michael's mom is out of town and we wanted to give Michael's dad something to do. They are now trying to fix our sprinkler system. I hope they figure something out. Our grass is turning a bit brown.

I want to recommend to our Christian female readers a good author. Karen Kingsbury. I love her! I have read the Redemption Series and loved each book. I just finished reading Even Now. So good!

So that is what has been going on in my life. Oh, I've been watching some Maverick Basketball too! Go Mavs!

I will post links and pictures when Blogger allows me to.

George Bush and George Bush (Steve Bridges)

LOVIN' IT

YES!

How do I feel about the fantastic series between the Spurs and Mavs? ....Almost as good as Dirk!

From Elvis to Eminem

This is a trip through time of music and dance. I had fun hearing the different songs that were so popular growing up. I did many of these dance moves with the girls in my dorm or club or on the mountain during Wilderness Trek with youth group kids. Who can beat the grocery cart moves?!? Click the title to play. (6 minutes long.)

I'm a reader, not much of a writer

I enjoy reading blogs, but I really don't enjoy updating this thing. I thought I would. It was suppose to be a great place to record the happenings of my first year in marriage. Maybe I will see it like that one day.

I'm trying to be healthier these days. Soy this and soy that. Organic this and organic that. If it has anything hydrogenated...adios! I know that genetically, I will not have the best heart or cholesterol levels. Heart disease is the number 1 killer and I want to live. Michael, in his words, is THRILLED that I'm doing this. I think he might write a letter to Oprah since she put the doctors on her show that convinced me.

I may be going to Mexico next month for a mission trip with the church. I did this two years before, and it was a wonderful experience. Michael is trying to take off work so that he can go as well.

Michael and I helped move the bride's things into her new hubby's house. It is so interesting to meet new people (her parents). The entire day was fun (as fun as it can be when you're moving someone) and it stimulated good conversation between Michael and me.

Saturday night, Michael and I went to see a musical about Hank Williams. Aside from the language (how could you avoid it when it's about Hank), it was FANTASTIC! Michael had won the tickets from work. I am amazed at how a particular guy sang. I plan on google-ing his name, Mississippi Charles Bevel, soon.

I have just a few days of teaching left. It still hasn't hit me. But when it does, I'll be a happy chic-a-dee.

If there are a lot of words that are spelled incorrectly, I apologize. The spell checker is off and I'm too tired to proof. You understand, right?

Moussaoui

Dallas-Fort Worth, Texas WFAA.com Top Stories

What are y'all's thoughts on Moussaoui recieving life in prison for his participaation of the 9/11 attacks? Here are some points:

Death would have made him a martyr.
We now pay for him with tax dollars for the rest of his life.
What about those innocent lives that were taken when he is guilty?
What if he manages to escape?
The inmates will give him a hard life.
Is it right to kill someone?

I think this could be very interesting.

Wow

I can't believe BOTH Dallas and Detroit are out of the playoffs. Wha?!?!? Oh well. GO MAVS!

The Playoffs are Starting and I'm Going!!!

I was so afraid I was going to miss the Stars game tomorrow...just forgetting about it until the late afternoon. (I know, just how far have I fallen away?) Well, Sweetie Michael found some tickets on Ebay for a good price and we're GOING!! Michael is from Colorado and this is HIS team, and of course, the Stars are mine. This is going to be so much fun!!! Bring on the Quest. Check out some cool videos from this season here.

Happy Easter

What a lovely 3 day weekend. Michael took Good Friday off and joined me for a day of fun. My cousin, Jill, had her second child and first son, Hunter, on Thursday. Michael and I joined Mom to go see the precious baby boy on Friday.

Then Michael and I went to visit my aunt and grandmother at the Christian Care Center. We found my aunt cutting many of the residents' hair and my grandmother wanting to eat the ice cream sundaes they serve on Fridays. These ice cream sundaes are so delicious! We had a good time visiting with Nana and with her cousin, Louise.

Saturday, Michael and I did major yardwork. Not only did Michael mow, but he got out the chain saw and ax and went after some trees in the yard. I began pulling out weeds and tiny trees, and removing dead leaves or dying plants from the flowerbed. I became VERY sore from this work...still feeling it big time today.

Then Michael and I met with his family (Houston family came up for LTC) at the Olive Garden to eat lunch. They were all dressed up to get their picture made. Then after the families took their pictures, they came over to our house to visit and eat dinner (just Chic-Fil-A). I'll post some of the pictures after I scan them. They are growing so quickly!

A year ago Saturday, Michael asked me to marry him! I can't believe all that has happened since that day. God has blessed me beyond my wildest dreams. Praise Him! Michael and I bought this 9 games in 1 thing. He taught me how to play Chess Saturday night. I can see this becoming an obsession for me. You really have to think!

Easter Sunday, we went to Richardson East for a good worship service. It is so fun to see how dolled up the little kids get for Easter. I met a family that came from New Orleans and place membership at RE. They had a precious little girl that had at least 3 bows in her hair for her 1st Easter. She was adorable!!!

We then went to my bro-in-law's parents house in Plano. We had a fantastic dinner and hunted Easter Eggs. We also had cascarones. I had confetti all over me. The kids had so much fun! We also celebrated Andrew and Ashley's upcoming birthdays. Andrew has a new game system (I'm totally out of date on this, but it's supposedly really cool) and we gave him a gift certificate to buy some games for it. Ashley is into Care Bears and we got her this really cool one that plays a game like 20 questions. Really cool.

It's Time to Take Action

I'm a teacher. Obviously, education is important to me. I come from a family that is not lacking in teachers, coaches, or principals. The future of this country is important to me. I teach in a school where many of my students are illegal or their parents are illegal. I've been monitoring the protest closely. I love these kids and I feel for them, but I'm also a US citizen and can see the damage of having these illegal immigrants here. My brother, Blake, had a blog entry that opened my eyes a little more. Check it out here.

But the thing is, no matter who is in our country, our education system is crumbling. It will soon be an avalanche if it isn't already. Tuesday, on Oprah, Bill and Melinda Gates were showing what the schools have come to. You can check out the contents of the Oprah show here.

Did you know that 1 out of 3 freshmen will not graduate? That might shock you; it doesn't shock me. I teach in a district that has 5 middle schools. My school once had the students that the high school teachers do not want to get. My students have a higher rate of dropping out than those from the other middle schools.

According to schoolmatters.com, my school is labeled as a "fringe off a large urban city school." Yes, my school can be rough. It is definitely rougher than the other middle schools in the district. Is it rougher than the Dallas school my dad teaches at? Maybe, but probably not. We have outstanding adult leaders in my school that give more structure to the students. It may even shock you that my students wear uniforms. That is one of the best things for these students.

But the thing is, even if these kids graduate, their education is still on a low level. They do not have the skills to do much. Whose fault is this? As a teacher, I'm doing the best that I can and my students still are below everyone else in the district. The administrators are excellent. So, it the student? I honestly don't think so. I do feel that family/home life plays a major role.

Bill gates says that we are teaching American students curriculum for them to survive the 1950's, not curriculum to survive the year 2006. You can see his website here. In Texas, I'm not sure if that statement is true. I do see a need for our kids to get into technology more than they are.

So how do we fix this problem? If we're worried about illegal immigrants taking so much money from hospitals and the like, how much more will we fret over all the jobless dropouts that will do the same thing in ten years?

My "solution" is to fix families first. But really, I don't see much change occurring. I think America is about to fade from the limelight. I've often cried over the thought of the life my future kids will live. This just confirms my suspicions of how bad things really are.

It is Important to Believe

This is an article from Reuters that discusses how Jesus walked on the water.

By Jim Loney
MIAMI (Reuters) - The New Testament says that Jesus walked on water, but a Florida university professor believes there could be a less miraculous explanation -- he walked on a floating piece of ice.
Professor Doron Nof also theorized in the early 1990s that Moses's parting of the Red Sea had solid science behind it.
Nof, a professor of oceanography at Florida State University, said on Tuesday that his study found an unusual combination of water and atmospheric conditions in what is now northern Israel could have led to ice formation on the Sea of Galilee.
Nof used records of the Mediterranean Sea's surface temperatures and statistical models to examine the dynamics of the Sea of Galilee, which Israelis know now as Lake Kinneret.
The study found that a period of cooler temperatures in the area between 1,500 and 2,600 years ago could have included the decades in which Jesus lived.
A drop in temperature below freezing could have caused ice thick enough to support a human to form on the surface of the freshwater lake near the western shore, Nof said. It might have been nearly impossible for distant observers to see a piece of floating ice surrounded by water.
Nof said he offered his study -- published in the April edition of the Journal of Paleolimnology -- as a "possible explanation" for Jesus' walk on water.
"If you ask me if I believe someone walked on water, no, I don't," Nof said. "Maybe somebody walked on the ice, I don't know. I believe that something natural was there that explains it."
"We leave to others the question of whether or not our research explains the biblical account."
When he offered his theory 14 years ago that wind and sea conditions could explain the parting of the Red Sea, Nof said he received some hate mail, even though he noted that the idea could support the biblical description of the event.
And as his theory of Jesus' walk on ice began to circulate, he had more hate mail in his e-mail inbox.
"They asked me if I'm going to try next to explain the resurrection," he said.

If we explain everything in the Bible, we will lose our faith. I believe what I read in the Bible without any proof, therefore, I have faith in its words. How dangerous it would be to prove everything in the Bible. I can't figure out this guy. I guess he is a believer...

PS...Anyone else having issues with uploading pictures that past week?

How Rude!

NEW DELHI (Reuters) - A textbook used at schools in the Indian state of Rajasthan compares housewives to donkeys, and suggests the animals make better companions as they complain less and are more loyal to their "masters," The Times of India reported Tuesday.
"A donkey is like a housewife ... In fact, the donkey is a shade better, for while the housewife may sometimes complain and walk off to her parents' home, you'll never catch the donkey being disloyal to his master," the newspaper reported, quoting a Hindi-language primer meant for 14-year-olds.
The book was approved by the state's Hindu nationalist Bharatiya Janata Party government but has sparked protests from the party's women's wing.
State education officials in Rajasthan, a western state known for its conservative attitude toward women, said people should not be upset by the comparison, the paper said.
"The comparison was made in good humor," state education official A.R. Khan was quoted as saying. "However, protests have been taken note of and the board is in the process of removing it (the reference)."

Cartoon Time

Michael came up with a funny cartoon (at least I thought it was funny). We put it down on paper. Let us know what you think:

We're Not in Kansas Anymore

I've always feared tornados. I have had nightmares for years that deal with tornados. Sunday night, you know - when it was POURING down rain, I watched the Discovery channel's series on the perfect disasters. The one that dealt with tornados was of course set in Dallas. They called the show SUPER TORNADO and showed what would happen if an F5 (really it was bigger) hit Dallas. Wow. I wish they had shown how the city was going to be prepared, but no - there was no sense of comfort at the end of the show. Most tornados occur around 5:00, aka rush hour, due to the day's warmth. I'm thankful that I now live a few minutes from work. :)

The Dallas Stars

I'm a big Stars fan, but I'm also a big Razor fan. If you know who he is, then you'll probably enjoy his blog. Today he wrote about how many of the Stars drive trucks or SUVs...just kind of describes the team for you.

Randomness

Well, I've been on Spring Break for the past few days. I can't believe it is nearly over. I have been working really, really hard this week and I want to RELAX!

I started my Spring Break on Friday by going out to eat with my fantastic husband, Tim and his fiance. That was really fun. We went to Cabrerra's and had some fantastic food. Michael and I split this trio of chicken....Soooooo good!

Saturday, Michael and I went to see his nephew, Andrew, play soccer. Andrew is five years old and most of his teammates are seven years old. You could see what a couple of years does for an athlete. That was a lot of fun as well.

Then, Saturday night, we went out to eat and then go bowling with some of Michael's co-workers. They are also engaged and they are from South Africa. Absolutely cool accents! They always sound polite. I'm sure us Texans just hurt their ears! I stink at bowling, but Michael did awesome. We found out that they hadn't been to church in a long time (while being in the States) and they didn't feel right, so they also visited us at church Sunday. They enjoyed it and may come back.

Monday, I tried to strip the paint off of some furniture. I also did a bunch of laundry. Michael's family had a family reunion of sorts at Luby's. I know my dad would have enjoyed that gathering. Tuesday, I tried to stain the furniture. I then decided it would be best to paint the furniture. So that's what I did. Wednesday, I put all of the furniture back, organized/decorated the book shelf in the bedroom, hung things on the walls and tried to put up curtains in the kitchen. Michael will have to do that since I've come across all sorts of problems. I also met Michael for lunch in Coppell. Today, I brought in my summer clothes into my closet and organized it into colors of shirts. Let's see how long that last. I have bleached about everything in the house. I have surface-washed the couch, spot-cleaned the carpet, vaccumed, swept, mopped, done more laundry, washed dishes, moved all of my china to a new location, and I need a shower! :) I can't believe how a house gets so dirty when you do your best to be tidy.

Tomorrow, I am going to the movies (Curious George) with Michael's sister, Emily, and her kids. I hope to see my parents too. I haven't asked them if they're available. Then I will be preparing for the end of Spring Break. I dread going back to school. I wish it were summer already!

Poor Edgar!

I am soooooo hooked on the show 24. Monday nights on FOX at 8:00. Last night was a two hour special, which I was very okay with. I am never ready for the show to end after just an hour...it just leaves you hanging. So, if you are aware of the show, but missed the second episode last night because you didn't know they were doing a 2-hour special...here's the gist of it: The key card that was stolen from Lynn (Rudy!) was used to let a man carrying nerve gas into CTU. CTU didn't realize until the gas was being released. They sealed off rooms as quickly as possible, but Edgar did not make it! I CRIED!!

I love the relationship between Chloe and Edgar! Also, Kim was informed that Jack was still alive. I bet the man she is with now is also a terrorist and now he's locked in with all of CTU. I bet as well that Tony is going to kill the terrorist that is being questioned because he was sent to the clinic when the gas was released. When Tony finds out that he had a hand in killing Michelle, its over. Ah! This show is so wonderful and intense!!

1/2 of a Year!!!

Today marks 6 months of marriage for Michael and me. I was in a meeting with my principal and a bunch of teachers when we were talking about what today meant to each of us. I mentioned that I married Michael 6 months ago. Someone said, "Ah, the first year of marriage. I remember wondering if I had made a huge mistake that first year. Anyone else?" A chorus of agreements rang out. I have not felt this at all! Every day, I wake up wondering how come I got so lucky. There have been adjustments, but never did I wonder about my decision. I asked them if I was doomed because I have never doubted this decision or felt ?trapped? in the marriage. I have lived with a number of people (girl roomies and brothers) and I can adjust to anyone. I can honestly say that because I am married to Michael, every aspect of my life has improved. Here are 6 things I admire most about my husband:

1. He never says a negative thing about life, unless it is REALLY bad.

2. I have never seen another male care for his family so much.

3. He works so hard. He's an honest worker and does it correctly and completely.

4. He is able to look at the big picture and let the little things slide right on by.

5. He begins most of his days by asking God to remind him of the opportunities our jobs bring us as Christians.

6. He has the capacity to love so deeply. I am at awe by how he loves me.

Thanks, babe, for a wonderful 6 months!

Lent

Yesterday was Fat Tuesday today is Ash Wednesday and little me was unaware that this was the time to fast from something for 40 days. Now, I'm not Catholic, but I do think focusing on the Lord for 40 days is a splendid thing. I realized this in the early afternoon and had to find something to fast from that I hadn't had so far today. My weakness is ice cream. So, I'm declaring now a fast from ice cream for 40 days. What will you fast from?

Are you the 2,222 reader?

Look at the counter to see if you are the "fortunate" one to be number 2,222. Congratulations, I think.

My Hard Working Husband

I rarely see someone work as hard as Michael works. He has been working fairly late, and brings his work home with him. He worked at home late last night and then got up at 4 AM to do some more work. I bet he'll bring more work home tonight and get up by 5 AM tomorrow. I am so glad he is so determined to be good at what he does; I just wish he could get some rest.

FOUR

Four jobs you have had in your life:

1. Babysitting/Child Care
2. Secretary in HS building
3. Waitressing
4. Teacher

Four movies you would watch over and over:

1. Sound of Music
2. Mighty Ducks
3. Airplane
4. Miracle on Ice

Four places you have lived:

1. Dallas
2. Abilene
3. Rockwall
4. Farmers Branch (I try to block out my time in Plano)

Four TV shows you like to watch:

1. 24
2. Oprah
3. American Idol
4. CSI

Four places you have been on vacation:

1. Colorado
2. Disney World/Land
3. Vermont
4. Vancouver

Four web sites I visit daily:

1. Blogland
2. C-FB ISD
3. Dallas Stars
4. Google's Personalized Page

Four places I would rather be right now:

1. Mom and Dad's as Mom cares for Maddie
2. The Olympics
3. On the couch
4. Movie Theater (Its been a long time since I've been there)

Brrr...It is COLD!!

We realized early Saturday that our heater wasn't working anymore. The fixer-upper guy is coming today, Sunday. That means we sat next to our fireplace all of Saturday and wore tons of clothes to bed last night. Michael even wore a tabogan to bed. It is so very cold. Michael is covering his ears to keep warm in the picture below.

Way to Go Mo!

Mike scores for the USA!

Top Men in My Life

I am following Blake's lead and listing the top men in my life.

1. Michael~ This guy is amazing! I know most don't know him very well yet, but he is top quality. Our ROCK group (9th and 10th grade Bible study group) hostess mentioned Sunday that he is just wonderful. I couldn't agree more. He is sweet everyday, but he goes to great lengths for days like today. His mother and sisters raised him right. God really blessed me with him. Thanks for all that you are, babe. I love you!

2. Dad (Tim)~ Excellent example on how to be a man. I've never seen him really upset but yet I have/had a healthy fear to never wrong him as a child of his. He always tells us how proud of us he is. I never want to disappoint him. A true man when it comes to handling pain, but also leading a family spiritually.

3. Oldest Brother (Brett)~ Smart, funny, outgoing. That's Brett. He has found such a calling to serve by helping people with finances. Michael and I put so much trust in him as we were house-hunting. He gave me my first sister by marrying Jenny. Thanks!

4. Older Brother (Blake)~ I became closer to Blake since he actually stayed in the same city with me for more years than Brett. My 8th grade year/his senior year was a learning experience for me. He helped me tons in Abilene my freshman year/his senior + year. Then, Blake and I lived close to each other after I graduated college. He has become more and more of a friend. Anyone will tell you he is the sweetest guy. I love his wife Jaime too.

5. Steve Sargent~ My best friend for many years. Steve got me through things I never thought I could. He encouraged me with my walk with God and will always be dear to me. He is truly mission-minded. I pray that he and his wife bring thousands to God.

6. Mike Cope~ Best Bible teacher I ever had. Tons of respect for this man.

7/8. Gramps/Granddaddy~ Loved them both. Sure wish Michael could have met them. I know Gramps would have thrown math questions at him. Michael would have also understood Perkins humor a bit more if he had known Granddaddy.

9. David (father-in-law)~ He has accepted me from day one. He makes me laugh by his bluntness. I enjoy arguing with him on almost every topic imaginable.

10/11. Shaun/Mike (Bro-in-laws)~ True brothers. We argue, we fight, and we share. They have done so much for me already.

My mind and body are tired.

I've had a lot of things going through my mind recently. There are different situations that have arisen that have knocked me out cold emotionally, spiritually, and mentally. It has almost put me into a depression. Luckily, I have a husband and friends that are there for me and have encouraging words. What I had to learn earlier in life, I am re-learning now. That lesson was to give it to God and let it go...really let it go. Earlier this week, I would pray with little faith of seeing any change. I knew I had to change my mindset. I want to pray, knowing God has the same desires and is working everything out in His perfect and mighty plan. I am working on praying that way and then not stressing over the issue...TRUSTing God completely. I may see something amazing as soon as this weekend, or honestly, never. I have to be okay with this.

School has been hectic. I have had an ARD each day this week and parent conference tomorrow. It is approaching the middle of February. I always dread this part of the school year. Maybe we get spoiled during Christmas. We come back after Christmas and then it is MLK day. Then, nothing but school for weeks! Spring Break seems so far away. This is really the time to push tutorials...I'm having as many as I can. After this really horrible week, I've got to stay late and decorate before hitting the road for a 5 hr trip. Joy.

I'm sleep-deprived. We have had wonderful things going on after work, but I need my sleep. I need to not worry about anything, go to bed at a descent hour, not have to get up early for a parent meeting, and just sleep. Last week, before I had any reason to fret, I wasn't sleeping well. So, nearly two weeks of little sleep can really get to you.

Sorry for being "Debbie Downer." The thing is I really am blessed. I love my friends, even if they make poor choices...haven't we all done that?? I looked through our wedding album today. Family, friends, God, and love. That's what I have. Most of my students don't have all of that. I am truly blessed. Praise God.

It's February?

Yesterday was groundhog day. We will have 6 more weeks of winter. Did winter ever arrive???

Today is our 5 month. Michael and I spoke last night and we decided that we have laughed every single day since we married, except for his food-poisioning day (aka, Michael's worst day of life). We are truly happy. It seems that so much has happened in these short 5 months: Katrina, our tree branch blown down by Rita, entire tree blown over by cold front, colds for both that required doctor visits, food poisoning for Michael, pink eye for me, Canon getting a liver, almost 2 birthday celebrations, Michael's grandfather passing away, my former student dying, and so much more. Even through those hard times, we were able to lean on one another and support each other...or get hiccups from laughing so hard.

Michael's birthday is Monday. We'll both be 26! Yes, I'm older by a few months, but I look like the kid. Tonight, I'm treating Michael to Ruth Chris' steak. Then his parents are treating us to the Harlem Globetrotters. Saturday we will spend time with friends and Dave and Busters. Sunday is the Super Bowl. Monday, his actual birthday, is actually not booked. Then on Tuesday, in continued celebration of the big 26, we're going to the Mavs/Lakers game.

I had dinner last night with a friend that I hadn't seen in a long time. It is so good to hear of good decisions being made in the lives of those whom I care about. God does bless those who seek Him.

Next Friday, I'll be the only person decorating for the Spring Social. Me. I've never been to a dance, but I'm expected to know how to decorate for one. Wish me luck on that one. Then it is off to Houston. Michael's old roomie and his wife are staying at our house and we're staying at Michael's sister's house. It's a big house swap! Maybe we should do something that would be done on Trading Spaces. I would love to see what they would do in our house!

I'm on the lookout for missing undershirts. I have lost a whole pile of Michael's undershirts and we have searched every room, every drawer, and under everything. They're gone. Even our cars were searched.

Today, I sat in a parent conference with a child. Her IQ is one point above mental retardation, but for some reason, we can't share this with the parent. The poor kid was getting chewed out for her grades. I had to get up to leave. I'm going to give her a big hug this afternoon. It is so sad.

Life can be so good at times!

Yesterday, I had a really long phone call with a parent. The parent wanted me to find out some info from this really shy student. The parents mentioned that the student speaks about me because of how I speak of God and display His light in the school (how cool is that!). I need to be careful though...I would hate to lose this job. So anyway, I met with this student before school for tutorials. After making sure the student was prepared for the test I'm giving today, I started telling her the observations I have made about her throughout the year. I encouraged her to continue to make good decisions while being surrounded by darkness. She totally opened up and gave me the information that I was needing to hear. I was anxious all last night about our little talk, but God totally took care of it. I feel as though I'm on top of the world because God takes care of me through the very last detail. Praise Him!

I taped the last part of the Stars game last night. Even though it was between the Stars and Avs (Michael is from Denver), we could not stay up to watch the end. I got up this morning to see the Stars tie it up and win it with another shootout!! Woohoo!

Tag, you're it!

I have been tagged in blog-world. I am suppose to tell you 5 of my guilty pleasures. Aren't you excited!?!?

1. HOCKEY! I watched my first shootout last night! The Stars tied the game with less than a minute remaining in regulation. The Stars were down a man for nearly half of overtime. 4 on 3 hockey is pretty exciting to watch. Then there was the shootout! The Blues hit the crossbar on the first shot. Zubov sank in the Stars' first shot. Turco made a great save on the Blues' second shot. Then our perfect rookie remained perfect. STARS WON! Michael says he's going to have to buy earplugs for when I watch hockey.

2. CHOCOLATE! I'm a girl, come on!

3. BLUE BELL ICE CREAM! Michael frequently tells the story of the first time he saw me eat ice cream. He is amazed how I eat twice as much as he does and then takes what he doesn't eat.

4. MARSHMALLOWS! This is my new favorite snack.

5. SUNDAY NAPS! I almost can't make it through a Sunday without a nap. Those rainy days are killer.

I've done my part. I tag Dad and Blake.

Worries

The last two Oprah shows have been on what Americans should be worried about. I have heard talk on the radio about this because of the Oprah show. The two shows were on terrorism and the Bird Flu or some other epidemic. How are you living your life? Are you worried about something? Are you watching out for something? I think the End Times are near...just don't know how near.

Is 100 Really Safe?

From David more in The Dallas Morning News

Can Kobe score 100?

Bryant not content to be second best, but even he can't fathom matching Wilt

Now that he's flaunted the laws of physics and NBA box scores, it's only natural to wonder if he can do more.
Kobe Bryant isn't constrained by the mundane boundaries of reality and history. He's one of those rare athletes who tempt you to believe the impossible may now be possible.
This is what Bryant has done with his 81-point game. He's forced us to examine the assumption that Wilt Chamberlain's record will never be broken.

The 100 points the Big Dipper scored on March 2, 1962, are the product of a bygone era when Chamberlain was bigger and stronger than anyone he faced and defenses weren't nearly as sophisticated. It's one of those athletic feats, along with Joe DiMaggio's 56-game hitting streak in baseball, revered as untouchable. "If one person did it, it's possible that someone else can accomplish the same feat," argued George Gervin, who once scored 63 points in a game and now works in community relations for the San Antonio Spurs. "All the young kids who have people tell them you can't do this, you can't do that, those who hear Wilt's record will never be broken ...
"Kobe has proven things like that can happen."
Maybe it can. But it's not likely.
That's the difference – OK, one of many differences – between a four-time NBA scoring champion and a jaded journalist. Gervin looks at the highest scoring game in nearly 44 years and sees more.
I look at Bryant's brilliant performance and see why Chamberlain's record is safe.
I'm not alone. After the Los Angeles Lakers star autographed copies of the box score for teammates and staff, he was asked about Chamberlain's record.
"That's unthinkable," Bryant said. "It's pretty exhausting to think about."
He wasn't being gracious. Breaking 100 in today's game is unthinkable.
Chamberlain scored 100 points in a season in which the league average was 118.8 points. Only five teams are above 100 in the NBA this season, and the average is 96.7 points.

Even former Lincoln standout Chris Bosh couldn't help Toronto stop Los Angeles' Kobe Bryant on Sunday.
The possibility of Bryant, or any player, scoring more than the league average is absurd.
Another crucial consideration is the number of possessions.
The Lakers average 80.8 shots a game. That's 27 less than teams averaged during the 1961-62 season. It's part of the reason seven of the 10 highest scoring games in league history came between 1960 and '63.
Not everything about this era puts Bryant and others at a disadvantage. The Lakers guard picked up seven additional points behind the 3-point arch that wasn't available when Chamberlain played. Rule changes that prevent defenders from hand-checking an opponent have opened up the game on the perimeter.
Chicago's Michael Jordan never scored more than 69 points in a game. Portland coach Nate McMillan is one who believes Jordan would have scored 100 points under the current rules.
"You better believe it makes a difference," said Gervin, who holds the record for most points in a quarter with 33.

Kobe Bryant hugs coach Phil Jackson as teammates celebrate his 81-point game.
"Back in the day, you could be held. A defender used to be able to put a hand on your side or an arm in your back. I was 185 pounds and had guys at 225 pounds putting their hands on me. It was like trying to move a stump.
"I'm not saying it's easier now, but it's different."
Very different. And that makes for a spirited debate.
The Lakers' Phil Jackson said he's never witnessed anything like what Bryant did to Toronto, which is pretty heady stuff when you consider he coached Jordan. Gervin considers Bryant's 81 as impressive as Chamberlain's 100.
Bryant did shoot better and score a greater percentage of his team's points (66.4 percent to 59.2 percent) than Chamberlain did in his 100-point effort.
"To compare it to anybody would be useless," Gervin said. "He set himself apart from everyone else. Everyone looks for another Michael Jordan, and there probably won't be one.
"What Kobe did was establish himself as one of the greatest scorers of all time at an early age. He's a phenom. I'm a believer, man.
"Now we've got to sit back and wait and see if anyone scores 82."
Notice he said 82.
Not 101.

THE TOP TWO SCORERS
The top single-game scorers in NBA history:

Wilt's 100
Game: March 2, 1962 vs. NY Knicks
Time played: 48 minutes
FG: 36 of 63
FT: 28 of 32
Rebounds: 25
Assists: 2

Kobe's 81
Game: Jan. 22, 2006 vs. Toronto
Time played: 41:56
FG: 28 of 46 (7-of-13 from 3-point range)
FT: 18 of 20
Rebounds: 6
Assists: 2

MAGIC NUMBERS
Baseball: 56
Since Joe DiMaggio's hitting streak came to an end in 1941, only Pete Rose (44) has come close.
Football: 47
John Unitas' mark of consecutive games with a touchdown pass still stands. Brett Favre hit 36 in 2004.
Hockey: 215
Only Wayne Gretzky has reached 200 points in a season four times in his career.
Basketball: 50.4
Think about averaging that many points per game for an entire season, like Wilt did.
Chuck Carlton

BIG BANG
Anecdotes and facts behind other high-scoring games in NBA history.
1 Wilt Chamberlain
100 points, March 2, 1962
Went to a penny arcade before the game and broke records in pinball and air rifle, which he took as an omen. Hitched a ride to New York after the game with several of the Knicks players he set the record against.
T-4 David Thompson
73 points, April 9, 1978
Big game came on the final day of the regular season to ease past George Gervin for the scoring title. Gervin scored 63 points later that evening to take the title back.
T-8 David Robinson
71 points, April 24, 1994
Big game came on final day of the regular season to beat Shaquille O'Neal for the scoring title.
11 Michael Jordan
69 points, March 28, 1990
Highest scoring game came against Cleveland when Cavaliers coach Lenny Wilkens refused to double-team him.
T-25 Joe Fulks
63 points, Feb. 10, 1949
Highest scoring game before the introduction of the shot-clock. Fulks was 27-of-56 from the field and 9-of-14 from the free throw line.

David Moore

MORE MAGIC
Amazing scoring milestones from the four major pro sports:
4
MLB: Fifteen players have hit four homers in a game, a barrier that stands like the speed of light.
6
NFL: Three players have scored six TDs in a game, including a memorable day by Chicago's Gale Sayers in 1965.
10
NHL: Toronto's Darryl Sittler recorded 10 points (6 goals, 4 assists) vs. Boston in 1976. Not even Gretzky matched it.
100
NBA: Wilt Chamberlain's record night in Hershey, Pa., still stands as a massive round number.
Chuck Carlton

Now That's Better!

Last night, 18 girls and I went to El Fenix and the Stars game and watched them tear up the Coyotes 4-1. This was a much better game than last Wednesday!!! It was so much fun to see so many girls from all walks of life have fun together. I set up the event and I don't think I knew half of the girls there! It was really nice to see Lori. I had not seen her since the wedding. She brought a few of her friends and I really enjoyed talking with one of her coworkers. It really is amazing how faith can connect two people.

Disappointed by the Stars

Well, Michael and I received free tickets (great seats!) to see the Stars take on the Atlanta Thrashers. Hedberg was the goalie this night, but I didn't think that would matter when the Stars were up 2-0. The Thrashers responded with 5 unanswered goals. The worst moment was when Hedberg came out of his area to get the puck but never covered it. They scored with a player (Modano I believe) in the net. Great friends (Jill, Landon, Tiffany, and Eddie), great seats, lousy game. A shout out to Landon for the great seats!

24

I am amazed, truly amazed. The show, 24, is beginning it fourth season I believe. I have watched it for three seasons. This show is so gripping! It involves an American agency preventing terrorism. Each episode is one hour of the day and there are 24 episodes, thus making one day. You pretty much follow one character, Jack Bauer, around and see how he outsmarts the terrorist and prevails. (Though, he did have to fake his death last season.) It is cool to see how a president might react to different threats and how the nation reacts to such scary times. If you want to get hooked on an AWESOME show, begin watching 24 this season. They had a 4 hr season premier, but you can still catch up. I can see it also becoming a little more "hollywood," but maybe it will stay safe to watch. Let me know if you watch this. I can't be the only one!

Today, I'm happy!

Reasons why I'm happy:

1. IT IS FRIDAY!!!
2. It is the end of a very long week.
3. I have a 3-day weekend followed by staff development.
4. I won't see my students until Wednesday.
5. I will go to a Stars game Wednesday.
6. I will go to a Stars game next Monday with 18 other girls!
7. The students are excited about FCA after school today.
8. The test the kids took today is on scantron...easy grading!
9. This is beautiful weather, despite the fires.
10. My husband is the best!

Check out this Bush impersonator....he's amazing! CLICK HERE

The Two-Headed Baby

If you did not catch Wednesday's Oprah show, you missed quite a story. There was a lady in Egypt who recently gave birth to conjoined twins and another baby (a triplet). There was a problem with the conjoined twins, one had not fully formed and was just a head, a parasitic head. It's an amazing story. Click on the title see get the full story and see a picture. I decided not to post the picture since some might not want to see a sight like that.

Janne Niinimaa

I have to admit that I was at first disappointed to see Erskine go...he was my present-day Shane Churla...a fighter. But then wonderful thoughts began to tumble into my head- Janne's got qualities that will propel this team forward!

1. He's a Finn...need I say more???

2. He's a veteran...Stanley Cup Playoffs anyone???

3. Our defense will be top-notch. Maybe our games won't start off with us down a couple or three goals.

I like this very much! Go Stars!

I have to buy a whole lot of 2 cent stamps!

Once, it cost 3 cents to mail a letterBy Steven Ellis

When you picked up your mail Monday, you may have noticed something different. Did you catch it?
Here's a hint: You'll see this change on the upper right-hand corner of any piece of first-class mail that weighs an ounce or less.
Sunday the US Postal Service increased the price of a first-class stamp from 37 cents to 39 cents.
The last price increase was in 2002, when the cost to send a letter rose by 3 cents. In 2001, a first-class stamp was 34 cents.
The US Post Office Department was created by Congress in 1775. (It was renamed the US Postal Service in 1971.)
The cost to send a letter in 1845 was about 5 cents - but that was the equivalent of about $10 today.
In 1851 Congress wanted to make the mail service more affordable. So it reduced the cost of a first-class stamp from 5 cents to 3 cents. For the next 107 years, the price remained about the same.
In 1958, the cost of a first-class stamp increased to 4 cents. Since then, the cost of stamps has risen every few years. These increases help the postal service keep up with the costs of processing and delivering the mail.
You don't have to throw out your old 37-cent stamps: The postal service has issued 2-cent stamps. This way, you can use a 2-cent stamp and an old 37-cent stamp until you get the new 39-cent stamps.

Maybe I shouldn't be upset about having to buy 2 cent stamps so that my 37 cent stamps don't go to waste, but I kind of am. We have had several problems with out postman since I moved in the house. Problems that could have been major - like delivering my new Social Security card to the wrong house! Michael had even called the post office to report the many things our postman does wrong. We have seen some improvement, but I still think the job can be done better. So now that my trust in the US Postal System has decreased, they make me pay more! I guess I can handle the increase, since I get a slight pay raise each year and I married someone who gets paid more than me....but I'm still upset.

Christmas Memories

This, of course, was Michael's and my first Christmas together as a married couple. We had celebrated Christmas with my immediate family the weekend after Thanksgiving. It was really fun to see Zach open gifts, Maddie laughing at everything, and Ethan just growing up faster than weed!

The Tuesday before Christmas, Ollie Perkins, the Rockwall Perkins', the Royce City Perkins', and us went to the Otways to eat fajitas and celebrate Christmas. I think we has fajitas to make Michael feel more at home while being surrounded by white people (j/k babe).

Michael and I spent actual Christmas with the Hall family in Abilene. Michael's parents haven't sold their house their yet and Janie wanted to have one last Christmas there. The Hall family, due to Janie's constant urging, has many Christmas traditions. We watched many Christmas movies that I had never seen, read The Night Before Christmas, made Christmas cookies, looked at Christmas lights, and nearly went carolling (the family beat out Janie's vote on that). I'm sure there were more traditions that occurred, but I have a short memory. We also opened a gift each evening...I liked that a lot!! Michael's sisters gave me Rummikub and Yahtzee for my birthday and I received a massager and silverware from the in-laws for Christmas. Michael received sneakers and Seinfeld DVD's.

Michael was a sweetheart and bought me a laptop. We originally went with Dell. There were issues with it and Dell's customer service is horrible. (So bad, I want to use foul language). We decided to not go with Dell again and chose Toshib. I have Toshiba Satellite. It is so awesome! I highly recommend it.

Anyways, Christmas was a time to fellowship with family, but it also was a time to remember Christ. I hope your celebration was a good one as well!

Wish it were like "the good ole days."

Michael and I read from the "Daily Bible." It is a new year and we are at the beginning of the Bible. I've been struck at how the stories you've heard all of your life can actually be quite confusing. I won't go into all of the new questions I have about the creation or anything, but I will say that I am amazed at how God seems to be so connected to these early people. Of course, we know that he spoke with Adam and Eve and went on walk in the Garden. He also has a close relationship with Noah. After the Noah family went inside the ark, God "sealed" them in. Just how did He do this? Was He physically there doing something, or did He speak it into action? In a way, I am glad that God doesn't suddenly say, "Brooke, I want you to put this on," of "Brooke, build this for me." But, wouldn't it be cool to hear God like that? I don't think these were impressions on someone's heart and they then stated, "God told me to do it." I think it was audible. Interesting.

Today, I received another wedding gift!!! Does this ever stop?!!? I can't believe it has been four months and we're still getting presents! I got a cookie sheet, a round baking pan, a muffin pan for 6 (perfect...it's not too big!), and The Quick and Easy Book full of recipes! I got birthday presents at Christmas too! In the past few weeks I've received birthday, Christmas, and wedding gifts. I am blessed! I will tell you about my Christmas in a future blog.

New year, new site

You probably noticed that I changed the scenery a bit. I don't think I was able to post links on the other template, so I switched. I added some blogs I read occasionally. I visit many more blogs, but I have at least posted on these. It would be weird to see my blog for the first time and read your name on my link page and never knew I had come across your blog. For ACUers, it is an amazing way to connect with so many people again.

Adios 2005, Hola 2006!

I consider the year 2005 one of the best ever for me. It involved so many things. Last January, I was only dating Michael, paying rent to my roommate in a house that wasn't close to anything I was involved in, and struggling to figure out 8th graders. Now I am married to Michael, we are home-owners, I am in the best location possible, and I feel very comfortable with my job. I have gained another wonderful family. We started the year with most of Michael's family in Abilene. His sister and her family moved to Denton and his parents moved to Carrollton (after a short stint in our house). I can't believe how quickly Michael wanted to get married after he finally decided I was "the one." I had no clue that I would even be engaged, much less married, at this point a year ago. I thought Michael was moving so slow...remember, he hadn't even kissed me yet! But God has perfect timing. We have already needed each other dearly at different points in this marriage and it has been such a blessing to have each other. I'm excited about our future at Richardson East and the new friends we can make there. A new youth minister will be appointed in the future, and I pray that it will be someone Michael and I can connect with. Many of our friends are becoming engaged couples. This may allows us to have more married friends...which will be a blessing also. God blessed me so much in this past year. I have good health, a Godly husband, a warm home, a great job, two loving families, and two reliable, fuel-efficient Hondas. I hope that if there are hard times ahead, I will be able to reflect on this year and realize God is with me and has already blessed me with so much.

I thank God that He let me know Derek

I will always remember Derek. Few students touched me the way that he had. I pray that his witness continues to grow, even after his death. Thank you, Derek, for ALWAYS making me laugh after a long and tiring school day. You were one of the best.


Crash victim, 14, recalled as fun-loving, reliable
Carrollton: Teen faces manslaughter charge in wreck near R.L. Turner
12:00 AM CST on Tuesday, December 20, 2005
By BRANDON FORMBY and MARISSA ALANIS / The Dallas Morning News
Derek Elizondo was a fun-loving and popular teen who always tried his best to put a smile on people's faces.
As family and friends grappled Monday with his death, Carrollton police arrested the teenager they say was driving a pickup that flipped and ejected Derek from the bed. Six others were injured in the one-vehicle accident near R.L. Turner High last week.
"All he wanted to do was have fun," said Brandon Butler, 16, who had been friends with Derek since middle school. "It's just going to be really different without him."
Danny Joe Williams, 17, of Farmers Branch faces one count of manslaughter and three counts of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, all second-degree felonies. Mr. Williams was being held Monday at Carrollton city jail. His bail is expected to be set today, police said.
Witnesses said Mr. Williams was speeding and swerving as he drove westbound on Cox Street on Dec. 12. Six teens were riding in the back of the truck, which is illegal for those under 18, police said. Some of the students in the truck were hitching a ride from the school to an athletic workout facility.
"God sends people to show us lessons," Herbert Bonilla, Derek's friend and a fellow football player, told WFAA-TV (Channel 8). "Anybody can learn from this lesson not to jump on the back of a truck."
Derek, 14, who suffered head injuries in the accident, died Sunday night. His viewing will be from 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday at Christian Center Assembly of God, 13505 Josey Lane in Farmers Branch. His funeral will be at 1 p.m. Friday at the church.
To his coaches, Derek was a talented athlete with an extremely likable and dependable nature. Head wrestling coach Greg George said Derek had placed first in a duals tournament at a wrestling competition Dec. 10 at Lake Highlands High School. The coach said Derek had won eight of nine wrestling matches.
"It's just a shame to lose a young life like that," Mr. George said. "It's very tragic."
Head freshman football coach Gary Qualls called Derek an enthusiastic and reliable young man.
"He started on the 'B' team as a second string cornerback and ended up on the 'A' team in the last three games of the season, leading the 'A' team with three interceptions," Mr. Qualls said.
He spoke fondly of how Derek never missed his daily morning ritual known as "Coach's Corner" in which athletes could greet coaches and discuss anything.
"He was always there shaking my hand," Mr. Qualls recalled. "I could count on Derek every morning to come by and shake my hand with a smile on his face."
Mr. Qualls said that Derek was passionate about the ROTC program, of which he was a member.
In an interview with WFAA-TV, Derek's mother said it had become apparent how many lives her son had touched.
"My baby had more friends than what we actually realized. I mean there are many we didn't know," Marie Simpson said. "We knew a lot of them, you know, I mean, there's just so many more people coming out that we didn't realize were there."
On Monday, crisis counselors were available to help students, who are in the middle of final exams. Counselors were sent to the high school and Vivian Field Middle School, where Derek was a student last year. The counselors also will be on site today.
Angela Shelley, spokeswoman for the Carrollton-Farmers Branch school district, said the schools are working with students who are unable to take final exams because of the tragedy.
"Their emotional health is more important now," Ms. Shelley said. "We're doing everything we can to help those kids. We're a family, and we've got to take care of our own right now."
After the accident, Derek's personal Web site turned into a spot where people could receive updates on his condition. Word of his death Sunday night spurred teens to post heartfelt messages on Xanga.com, a popular site that hosts blogs.
Derek's father told WFAA-TV that he knows he'll have a difficult time adjusting to the loss of the son he was so close to.
"I know I can say that I am very proud to have been his dad and still am," Art Elizondo said.
WFAA-TV reporter Brad Watson contributed to this report.
E-mail bformby@dallasnews.com
and malanis@dallasnews.com

Derek is now with the Lord

May God comfort his family and friends.

Sorry...I have no new information

I don't thinkI'll see Derek today. I hope to hear some news tomorrow at school.

Derek Update

They announced at school today that the doctors do not want visitors today (scratch my trip). Last night, he had so many guests that it agitated his system...too much stimuli I guess. I called his father and left a message on his cell phone that some teachers and I would be happy to bring them food and supplies. We understood that we wouldn't see Derek, but we wanted to help. I didn't get a reply, so we will try to visit him on Sunday. He could be in the hospital for a long time and Tiffany and I want to make it a weekly thing to see him. I also want to point out that the picture of Derek is a football picture. He usually is smiling, but football players are TOUGH, so no smiles! Derek is one of the happiest kids and has a very competitive spirit (which is good right now!). He is missing a karate belt ceremony tonight at my school. They are dedicating the ceremony to him. The school is also raising money to help with his medical bills. Please continue to pray for him and Brent (the other student that was injured).

Derek's Health

I tried to see Derek last night, especially after his friend that was sitting next to him on the truck visited me yesterday. That student said that Derek's parents were wanting visitors due to their concern of whether or not he would make it through the night. I was unable to find teachers to go with me after school, so I will go today. The student that was next to Derek was scraped up pretty badly. He has to keep watch to make sure he doesn't have a fractured skull, and he has one bad headache. These two students were two favorites of mine. Both are Christians and both have many adult and teen friends.

Report from a teacher who visited him last night:
He is in a chemically induced coma.
Obviously he is not able to talk or move.

I was able to visit with his Grandma, Grandpa and Aunt.

The doctors have a shunt drilled in the top right hand side of his skull, which dispels fluid from the swelling of the brain.

The plan, as of yesterday, is to try and wake Derek up from the chemically induced coma in nine more days.

He looks really good and strong.

I know you will pray for him.

Teen suffers brain injury from pickup overturn
09:07 PM CST on Tuesday, December 13, 2005
By BRAD WATSON / WFAA-TV

WFAA-TV Derek Elizondo
A Farmers Branch family has begun a bedside vigil for their teenage son who suffered a severe brain injury in a pickup truck accident Monday outside R.L. Turner High School.
Eight R.L. Turner High School students were on their way down Cox Street in Carrollton for wrestling and off-season football workouts at the field house when the truck flipped with six students in its bed.
Art Elizondo and Marie Simpson endured a long sleepless night while their son Derek went through surgery. Their wait for his recovery continued into Tuesday.
Also Online
Brad Watson reports
Student remains hospitalized after truck overturns
"He's going to pull out," Elizondo said. "He's going to pull out. God's going to take good care of him."
The parents said he is in critical condition with swelling of the brain and his recuperation could take up to a year.
"He's a strong kid," Simpson said. "He's a fighter. He's healthy, so he's going to come out of it one day at a time."
Derek was among six who rode in the truck's bed, despite state law that says no one under 18 can ride in the bed on a public street, and flew out as it overturned.
The students were heading from the high school to the field house, which was a few blocks away.
The school district said students without vehicles are told to walk, but one student said students pick up rides frequently.
"Yeah, they usually do it...but they're like going slow," said Nixon Portillo, a freshman at R.L. Turner High School.
R.L. Turner High School athletes who do drive to practice are being told by the school to obey traffic laws or face discipline.
"We just always remind them just how careful you have to be," said Bobby Burns, Carrollton-Farmers Branch Independent School District.
Carrollton police said they are still investigating, and charges against the student driver who they said was speeding are still possible.
E-mail mailto:bwatson@wfaa.com?subject=wreck

Former student in coma after accident

Click on the title to see a video.

The R.L. Turner High School football players and wrestlers were headed to the field house, which is blocks from the school campus.
Police said the 17-year-old driver lost control because of speed.
"He was swerving like that and hit a curb I guess," Rangel said. "And klunk, like that and the car tilted and we all fell out of the car."
Rangel said he believes the driver was swerving for fun. However, what bus driver Tommy Burns said he saw from the sidewalk wasn't fun.
"Just flipping, everything [was] just flipping," he said. "[I saw] kids in my vision, in my face and everywhere."
Under state law, no one under 18 can ride in the back of a truck on a public street.
Rangel's mother said after her fear dissolved to relief, she set her son straight.
"I had no idea he was riding in the back of a pickup," said Misty Rangel. "But he will not be doing that again."
Carrollton police and the school district are continuing their investigation.
WFAA-TV reporters Mary Ann Razzuk and Brad Watson contributed to this story.


He was one of my favorite students. He came back about a month ago to visit. Very active and polite teen. He was in football and karate. He never called me "Ms. Perkins" but "My favorite teacher." I'm sure he did that with all of his teachers!

Dad has made it!

My Dad is an airplane photographer whenever he finds the time. Sometimes, a magazine will pick up on his photographs and pay him to use the picture. This time, Dad got the cover! It is a picture of a Southwest plane. Seeing as I have a few friends that have SWA connections, maybe they can connect him to the Big Guy of SWA. Dad, what do you think?

Mavs game with FCA

This was really cool! It may have been the most disorganized event for students I've ever been at, but we, the Field teachers, we're on top of things. When we first got there (there being a field next to the AA center), we were the second or third school to arrive. The Mavs representatives handed our kids stacks of All Star ballots and told them to complete the 100 ballots for a free t-shirt. Our kids went after it! All of the other hundreds, if not thousands, of kids were walking around, causing chaos. Our kids were gathered on the sidewalk, intent on finishing the ballots. We then gathered in front of a stage where Coach Avery Johnson spoke to us. He pulled a raffle ticket to give a basketball that was signed by all of the Mavs. The raffle tickets were given to the students that completed the 100 All Star ballots. I think only our kids completed the ballots and a Field boy won the ball. Johnson spoke about being saved in 1989 in New Orleans. He wanted our kids to stay strong and succeed my being a slave to God. The kids loved it! I loved seeing him and shaking his hand. (I was in charge of keeping our kids away from the Rockwall kids (and their pretty girls) to form a path for Johnson to come down. I felt like a bouncer in a way!) We went to the game. These kids NEVER get to do things like this. They chanted every chant that was thrown on the jumbotron and sang every song on the PA system. They had the time of their lives. When we left, our bus had to go down a steep hill. The tail pipe was crushed as we went down and the air had to escape somewhere else and made this hissing sound. We had to call for help because it wasn't safe for us to drive. Luckily, the AA Center sent someone with a crowbar to open up the tail pipe. I was so relieved that we didn't have to wait for another bus to arrive! All in all, the kids had a great time and we got to talk to them about God. I just wish it didn't take my 4:00 to 11:00 of a Saturday away from me. Oh, BTW, the Mavs won! The Cowboy game Sunday was great too!

Curt Baker's White Elephant Gift

Last night I saw Curt Baker for the first time in a long time. I hadn't seen him since he got back from Africa. We had a white elephant gift exchange. Curt didn't know I was coming and his gift proves it. His gift was a bag of "junk." As the girl was opening her gift, she was looking through pictures and commented, "Who are these people?" I look and I see Michael's and my engagement picture! Also, there was a picture of Choo on the 8th grade basketball team, Michael Felker on the high school soccer team, and Curt's senior picture. I grabbed the pictures so they wouldn't be tossed by a stranger. Michael and I had thought to give one of our picutures as a gift, but I can't believe Curt did!

Brrrr....It is cold outside!!

Today I get to teach school because the weather interfered with the two-day training I was suppose to attend. It is better that I am at school. I have something easy to do because I had planned for the sub. It also is going by a lot faster than if I were sitting in a boring training.

This afternoon should be fun. There is an FCA meeting today and I will lead a discussion about being in the Word. Ouch....I need to be doing more of that.

Tonight, there is a white elephant gift party. I won't say what our gift is, but it is so white elephant! I can't wait to see our old friends.

Tomorrow, the FCA group and I are going to the Mavericks game. Before the game, Avery Johnson is going to speak to the kids. How awesome it is to have a Christian coach in the NBA talking with the kids in the community.

Sunday, I will hopefully go to church for the first time in two weeks. Richardson East is having a special contribution for a new sound system. The old one is twenty years old and can't support our larger praise team. I can't wait to hear the new system come January. Michael and I will also do the ROCK group thing. I have missed those kiddos.

Will we ever both be healthy during our marriage???

Michael and I both went to the doctor on Sunday. It is a lot more fun to go to the doctor when you don't feel THAT bad, but you just can't get over a sickness and you go with your best friend. Michael and I keep passing a sickness to each other. I got the illness first (from Thanksgiving week with my family) and gave it to Michael and he gave back to me and I to him. He got the illness because he has allergies and was susceptible to get it. He then got a steroid shot in the hip. My "cold" got so bad that I got pink eye and have to put in these miserable drops. Together, we have eight different prescriptions. So many crazy things have happened to us since we said "I do." Will life ever become normal again?

I did get to put up the Christmas tree on Sunday since I didn't go to church or Bible Study. That really makes a house feel like a home.

We visited Michael's family Saturday night after we heard that Dad-Dad died. We were being careful to not touch the children and to keep our hands washed. The family decided that their family's cure to a cold would help us - a couple of spoonfuls of whiskey. Wow! That was something else! I'm glad we didn't get pulled over on the way home. We had spilt some of the whiskey when we went over a speed bump. The car reeked of alcohol. (We didn't take our "medicine" until we were home.)

Michael's mom sent over some homemade chicken noodle soup for us Sunday. She also made breadsticks to go with it. It was SO GOOD! I will need to learn how to do this.

Dad-Dad

Michael's grandfather, Dad-Dad, passed away on Saturday. Here is his obituary.

Lee Roy Hall

Lee Roy Hall, affectionately called "Sonny" by his family, passed away December 3, 2005 in Midland.He was born July 22, 1930 in a tent in McCamey, Texas to Charles and Freddie Lou Hall. Lee Roy was raised in Monahans and Midland, and graduated from Midland High School in 1948. He then attended Abilene Christian College where he met the love of his life, Lois Jean Smith. Lee Roy and Jean were married September 2, 1949 in Abilene, Texas at the 14th and Vine Church of Christ. Lee Roy and Jean set up house in Midland where they lived in a house they built themselves. Lee Roy had numerous occupations; shoe salesman, farmer, railroad agent, life insurance salesman, real estate manager and his favorite job was his most recent, as a crosswalk guard at Rusk Elementary. If you knew Lee Roy, you will remember his big blue eyes and his beautiful big white toothed salesman smile and some of his favorite sayings; "A third and a third and a third", "I'm two hundred pounds of walking romance", "You have a duty to your audience", "It's those inherited characteristics", "Nice, neat, straight and complete" and calling his Jean "Dynamite". Lee Roy and Jean are charter members of Golf Course Road Church of Christ. Lee Roy was preceded in death by his father, Charles Robert Hall; his mother, Freddie Lou Hall; his brother, Alton Layfette Hall; his sister, Vina Rue Hall; and his granddaughter, Marie Meador.He is survived by his wife of 56 years, Jean Hall of Midland; his seven children, David Hall of Carrolton, TX, Wayne Hall of Houston, TX, Sarah Meador of Arlington, TX, Mark Hall of Houston, TX, Ted Hall of Cartwright, OK, Shelley Beaver of Denver, CO and Shawna Roland of Greeley, CO; seventeen grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; his brother, Fred Hall and his sister, Loreitta Black.The family will receive friends at Ellis Funeral Home Monday, December 5, 2005 between the hours of 6:00 and 8:00 P.M.Funeral services will be at 11:00 A.M. Tuesday, December 6, 2005 at Golf Course Road Church of Christ with Ronnie White officiating. Interment will follow at Resthaven Memorial Park. Arrangements are under the direction of Ellis Funeral Home.Pallbearers will be his grandsons, Clint Hall, Neil Hall, Ryan Hall, Michael Hall, Jordan Hall, Mark T. Dyke and Quade Roland. Honorary pallbearers are Ray Blackwell, Charlie Smith, Mike Houston, Royce Howard, Ed Stewart and Zach Beaver. Published in the Midland Reporter-Telegram on 12/5/2005.

Friday's Thoughts

I hope everyone had a good week!

Sickness: I was sick Saturday and Sunday and was feeling pretty bad Monday. Michael felt bad on Monday and Tuesday, took Wednesday off, worked too hard on Thursday and I think he is taking today off. We both have been sick a lot since we've been married. Shaun and Andrew came over on Sunday and I was sick on the couch. The last time they were there, like a week earlier, I was sick on the couch. I hope they don't think Michael makes me sick!

Wedding: The wedding is nearly officially over! Mom and I are finishing the photograph stuff today. I can't wait to not have a wedding item on my to do list! This has been going on since April!

Canon: Canon is doing well after his successful liver transplant. God is so good!

Stars: I hear they are doing well. I don't get to watch the games anymore because I don't get FSW.

3 months: Tomorrow marks 3 months of marriage! Last month, Michael had food poisoning. Looks like he'll have a sore throat this time around. He wears himself out working so hard.

December: Is anyone else shocked that it is already December?