January Jollies

Neck Injections

I am nearing the 2 year mark of getting neck/shoulders injections for migraines. While it may not help 100%, I am grateful for the relief that I get about 80% of the time.  I am still working on stretching and trying to build up the muscles in my neck, but this may just have to be a lifelong journey.  Charles is usually my driver downtown every 3 months and we always stop for treat on the way home.  Ice packs are essential and I usually sleep most of the afternoon/evening. I am confident for future progress and thankful for the relief that I do get.  I just gotta keep on going...

Daddy’s BD and Houston Half Marathon

I can't think of a better way to celebrate and remember my Dad's birthday more than celebrating with the other blessing God gave me in Grampee.  Today, Grampee completed the Aramco Houston 1/2 Marathon with an amazing time of 2:05:19! I am always so impressed with his determination to accomplish this year after year. Even more impressive that this was his 31st consecutive year running the Houston Marathon/Half Marathon. We are so proud of you, Grampee!

Engagement Anniversary! 23 years ago we got engaged in Grapeland, TX.

Here comes 2026!

Stretch

Micah 6:8

I have thought about this word a lot. To stretch is to extend or lengthen something beyond the normal length. To me, this word causes me to look at what I am doing and how I can stretch myself further into the uncomfortable zone to be better. To be better for others, myself, and more importantly, Jesus. I have found myself really contemplating what causes me to be "busy" and therefore takes my time away from allowing myself to stretch.

Stretching means walking into our fears and coming out as people of faith. Stretching means believing in God when we don't see him working. Stretching means trusting God in all circumstances. Then we will be more like “rubber bands” that God can use to do his work in this world. May we continue to stretch ourselves daily and love others better every day. 

Micah 6:8 NIV

[8] He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.

2018 - CHOOSE JOY

2019 - DRAW CLOSER

2020 - BALANCE

2021 - INTENTIONAL

2022 - PRUNING

2023 - SEEK

2024 - ANCHOR

2025 - RECENTER- Lamentations 3:22-23

2026 - STRETCH

We celebrated the day with Gamee and Grampee, playing cards, and enjoying smoked chicken, mac and cheese, rolls, smoked pork burnt ends, baked cabbage (wealth), and black eyed peas (health).  

To end the evening, Charles and the kids went to the finale of Stranger Things at the movie theatre while I was able to read quietly by the Christmas Tree one more time.  It was a peaceful way to start our new journey into a fresh year.