Mrs. Iced Tea Forever

Spring!

2008-05-04T21:54:00.002-05:00

Spring is finally here and so is the dreaded cardinal. Last year I had this crazy cardinal that would follow me around the house banging into windows. I thought he was gone, but no such luck! Any advice, I'll take it.

I got my flower bed planted and mom came over the other day and helped me plant my garden. It is so nice to have that out of the way. My windows were also washed by my very nice mother.

What more can I say at this time? I have a wonderful daughter, husband, and family!

Later,
Jewel

Cheerios and teeth

2008-02-21T13:42:00.002-06:00

The new phase at the ITF household is picking up cheerios that Mandy throws on the floor or vacuuming up the ones that get stepped on.

I was wondering why she was so fussy and then yesterday I noticed one of her I-teeth is in. I didn't know that those came in second. She only has one of her bottom front teeth and now this one. Crazy!

I am so ready for spring. Mandy loves the cold wind in her face, but it makes this Mommy a bit nervous. She woke up this morning with a stuffy nose and it makes me just a bit more anxious.

Well, on with the household chores,
Jewel

Pictures

2008-02-02T10:37:00.001-06:00

Warning: Lots of Pictures coming

Mandy fell asleep one Sunday afternoon. She has hardly ever fallen asleep on the floor. I guess she was just very tired!

Mark, Paula, and Daniel came to visit over a weekend while Mr. ITF's family was here.

Mandy fell in love with her Aunt Jean

A Christmas dress from Grandma Troyer.

Another picture with the Miller cousins!

Mandy's usual appearance.

An easy way to carry both Mandy and laundry up the stairs!

Her first chew on a pizza crust. She really enjoyed it, but Mr. ITF did not. (She kept slobbering all over him!)

We really did have fun the last month. The Mr. ITF household was able to celebrate both the Miller and the Troyer Christmas followed by a stream of visitors. Mandy really enjoyed the company and the last several days has not really known what to do with herself.

Later,
Jewel

Winter

2008-02-01T13:43:00.000-06:00

The cold of Hoosierville has been upon us for several weeks now. We did have a few days to a week of 50 degree weather, but this morning I awoke to snow blowing and treacherous roads. (Of course I did have a meeting at the hospital this morning!)

All of our Utopia company has gone home and the house seems extremely quiet. Mr. ITF and Mandy both have to flu. Mandy just today again decided to revisit her lunch of apples and chicken. I feel so bad for her cause she just whimpers and is clingy. I am suppose to work this weekend, so I hope that it settles down around here a bit.

My very nice brother called this forenoon and asked for the garage door to be opened. I wondered what he was up to until he come in the door asking where our shovels were kept. He has shoveled our whole drive! Now I can stay indoors and my sick hubby doesn't have to shovel when he gets home from work. I was so proud of him. It looks very nice! (I offered him an apple fritter for his efforts!)

School is still running although I find it difficult to complete the weekly assignments. I know this is where the Lord wants me, but at times I wonder if He really does know how much one can handle. Somehow everything gets done on time. I don't always get the grade I want, but it is DONE!

Well, I had better run and check on Mandy. She has been down for a nap for an hour now.

Later,
Jewel

A New Post

2007-11-09T19:51:00.000-06:00

Oh my, I looked at my last post and noted it to be from September. There has definitely been some major things that have occurred here in the ITF household since then.

Mr ITF is feeling so much better. He is back to work again. I love that since I just don't have the energy or the strength to be the main income for this house. I have been picking up some extra shifts at the hospital though. There would have been no way that I could have made it through these last few months except for the individuals that have been praying. My church has been a huge support as well as my family both immediate and extended.

Mandy is rolling over and just started to sit up. She just keeps growing. It won't be too long that we will have to get her another car seat. I don't think she'll be in the car seat until she is 8. She just about has her 1 year-old cousin beat on weight. There are only 3 ounces between the two. Crazy.

I still think there are times when I try to manipulate circumstances to go the way I want them to go. Walking with Jesus is a joy, yet I find myself wanting to lead. There are times that I rest in the arms of Jesus simply because I have no where else to go, instead of going there first!

Stress

2007-09-15T19:33:00.001-05:00

I am still recovering from my wonderful hubby's recent hospital admission. Now school starts up once again. Today Mandy was so needy. I think she is going through another growth spurt. She just wanted to be held and fed all day.

Wed. this ITF family leaves for the wonderful land of Utopia. There is a wonderful father-in-law that is turning 80. I am so ready to go. It's been too long since Mandy has seen her Troyer grandparents and other family members.

I hope that I can get my mind to simply rest instead of going in circles tonight.

I think that I've had a difficult time this week simply resting in the safe arms of Jesus. I don't know why there are so many times that I want to control the situation and make the outcome to MY liking. This does not make me a restful person, nor does it place my heart at peace. When I'm not at peace I think my family notices and the house is in an uproar. I'm guessing that was Mandy's problem today. I was just a bit edgy today.

Later,
Jewel

Early Morning

2007-08-02T15:16:00.000-05:00

Mr. ITF often gets up with new ITF member. The other morning I woke to find him still missing. I went investigating and this is what I found. I thought it cute!

Jewel

Home from Utopia

2007-07-16T13:44:00.000-05:00

Well, the trip home was uneventful and Mandy did excellent! She slept almost the whole way. I think that I'll just post a few pictures.

Trying to catch up on some much needed sleep. As one can see there are two people in the house that make it slightly difficult at times!

This was what we found upon driving into our driveway. The culprits are still at large!

Later,
Jewel

2007-07-06T22:09:00.000-05:00

I am so tired!!!!

Later.

2 Years

2007-06-25T13:25:00.000-05:00

It's so hard to believe that it was 2 years ago today that we said I Do! How time flies (especially when you're having fun!)

Later,
Jewel

Good Baby

2007-06-24T21:38:00.000-05:00

God has certainly blessed me with a good baby. (I think she has her Daddy's personality as well as appetite!!)

This morning she started squirming and fussing just as we were ready to walk out the door for church. We put her in the car, began driving and she fell asleep. She slept all through church!

I was so touched in church. Sitting beside me was this big hubby of mine that held our daughter all through church. I thought it looked so cute.

She hardly ever fusses. Loves to be cuddled and talked to. Loves to eat! Smiles and laughs in her sleep. And she is so precious and cute. She is certainly a blessing to have in our home!

Time for this mommy to go to bed. Later,
Jewel

Thanks

2007-06-21T19:24:00.000-05:00

My mother-in-law went home on the 19th and both Mandy and I miss her terribly. She did so much for everyone in this household while here. Kept up with the laundry, dishes, cleaning, cooking, etc. Plus I could just wheel Mandy out in her bassinet in the mornings and let Grandma care for her while I caught some more shut eye. Thanks Mom for everything.

Then this morning, my dear sweet hubby took Mandy for the entire morning while I caught up on some much needed sleep. He also does not complain when I wake him in the middle of the night for his turn at feedings. (Seems I just can't keep up with the demand for milk!) He even got her dressed this morning! He is just the best Daddy in the world to our little girl.

Later,
Jewel

Amanda Sue

2007-06-10T13:41:00.000-05:00

She finally arrived on June 8, 2007 at 6:14pm. She weighed in at 10 pounds and 7.2 ounces and was 22 inches long.

There are pictures located at Mr. ITF's blog.

Enjoy!

Later,
Jewel

Still Waiting......

2007-06-04T16:19:00.000-05:00

I think I now understand the phrase patience is a virtue!

Later,
Jewel

Nesting

2007-05-25T15:01:00.001-05:00

The garage is cleaned and washed. The windows are washed inside and out. My sweeper is in the shop to get a new belt or else the screens would also be clean. There are more cookies for the freezer. The basement walls are about 1/4 wiped down. The laundry is all caught up. Floors are clean.

It's raining this weekend or else I would be out in the flowerbeds. Maybe...I'll just have to go out anyhow. I'm getting tired of doing word search and sudoku. Yet baby has not yet dropped. Guess there is more that I need to learn with patience. I'm to work this weekend. That should keep me busy at least. There may be some plans that Mr. ITF and I can come up with for the holiday. More to look forward to!

Gotta run,
Jewel

Sleeping

2007-05-21T13:02:00.000-05:00

Finally...I was able to get a good nights sleep last night. I have had so much trouble sleeping. Baby is going to be a night owl just like his/her parents. Wake up time is around 11:30pm and 2am. Plus he/she does not like the positions that I lie in.

Guess we'll just have to see how much patience one needs to meet the new person that just keeps growing and growing inside of me.

Later,
Jewel

Baby Shower

2007-05-05T21:07:00.000-05:00

Today was my first baby shower. I had so much fun and was so humbled by the gifts as well as the people that came. First off, the individuals had to go around the circle and identify themselves and give me a word of advice. I hope that I can listen to and act upon the advice given. It was so good. Patience, play with your children, cuddle them, spend time with them, and don't just say no due to your convenience: this was just part of the list.

Here are some pictures of the day:

Gotta run,
Jewel

Random pictures

2007-04-27T08:43:00.001-05:00

We at the ITF household have been very busy the last several days. Here are pictures to prove that.

Tom was mowing along and all at once yelled at me to get a bucket of water. I had noticed smoke, but did not think too much about it. When I came out the "fire-starter" was laying on the ground.

The "fire-starter" pinecone!

This is the line between us and our neighbors. It was full of dead grass, golf balls, one shoe, etc. The ITF household is now excited about our fence row!

With fixing up the fence row, we came across what we think are black raspberries! Guess we'll just have to wait and see.

The start of our garden!

Almost done!

Mainly the finished product. I still have to put the plants in. This was the last major project I wanted to get finished before the baby came!

A bit of goofing off.

This is my flowerbed out front. I don't know how it'll look, but there is definitely something growing there.

This is the way the ITF household feels about their accomplishments.

Now for the picture that you all have been waiting for.

More pictures later,
Jewel

Bridal Shower

2007-04-27T08:35:00.000-05:00

Last Sat afternoon, I put on a bridal shower for one of my friends. Here are some of the results.

Later, Jewel

Walking/Waddling

2007-04-03T14:39:00.000-05:00

I always knew that pregnant women waddled, but now that I waddle it is quite a different story! I just can't help it and have to laugh everytime I walk past a mirror and see myself "trying to walk correctly". I don't think that pregnant women can walk without waddling.

Oh well. It's getting to the time when I just want to see the little face that has moved around for so long. I want a name instead of just saying him or baby. (No we don't know if it is a boy, but to be politically correct it's best to say him instead of it!)

Well, gotta run,
Jewel

Updating!

2007-01-22T08:56:00.000-06:00

I just don't know what to say. Got off work this morning and am still trying to wind down. It was pretty busy last night, not to mention the fact that I worked a 12 hour shift.

I have to be careful about how long I'm on my feet, cause I am getting swelling in my feet already. (And I know that I don't want to wear those pantyhose things!!)

I am feeling the baby move more and more every day. Can't wait till Mr. ITF can share in the movements with me. Seems like the baby has gotten an attitude. When I lay to sleep, the baby has ways of getting me to lay in positions that he/she likes, but are maybe not that comfortable for me! Oh well. I just can't wait till I can see the little one's face.

Gotta run.
Jewel

2006-11-06T21:52:00.000-06:00

Laughing with friends is so much fun!

Later,
Jewel

ITF household welcomes new nephew

2006-11-04T19:26:00.000-06:00

He has finally come! Patrick Jay arrived on November 3, 2006 at 11:13am. He weighed in at 5lb and 11.7 oz. He was 16 inches long.

Tiny if you ask me. But I sure love him! Derrick walks around saying, "Baby Pac".

I'm so glad that he is here safe and sound. Enjoy the pics.

Mr. ITF was fascinated by the baby equipment. Guess he has a reason to be with ours coming in only 6 months!

The Yoder family

2006-10-03T15:01:00.000-05:00

So for those of you that visited my blog in the last few days, you guessed right. Mr. ITF in his cute days! (Now he is simply handsome!!)

I am back in school to get my BSN and I'm thinking that I'm crazy. I have this project due on Wed and finally I've been able to make some headway yesterday and today. I was so ready to give up, but with the steady encouragement from Mr. ITF, I kept at it. He is so good for me when it comes to school because his quiet reassurance keeps me going even when the times get tough. It is fun having him travel the distance with me again. I often go visit him in the coffee shop on campus when we are on break from class. The coffee is nice as well!

Mom went to FL to a funeral of my great-uncle. I so wanted to go. He and his wife became my support back when I was at PCC and needed a break to just be myself again. They were able to offer the support I so needed when my own parents were miles and miles away. They were there when I needed someone to care and hug on me some. There were tears and much laughter shared in the Yoder household during my PCC years. I came to enjoy a relationship with both of them, their children (in the area), and their grandchildren. They were never short on stories or memories of their children and grandchildren. There were hours spent in front of the wall in the hallway learning about the people in the pictures and the fond memories they had of them. Each and every morning, Monroe and Naomi would sit on the couch with their little dog and I would join them for their morning devotions. I will never forget the memories! My heart goes out to the Yoder family and I really wish that I could have been there.

Love ya'll,
Jewel

Guess who

2006-09-29T07:56:00.000-05:00

I'll leave it up to you to figure out who this cute little guy is!

Later,
Jewel

My Sister

2006-09-02T19:46:00.000-05:00

Today is a wonderful day for my sister. I won't tell you how old she is...but well....
She is a wonderful woman that I have had the privelege of growing up with and miss seeing on a daily basis. I know she is where the Lord wants her, but the distance is still far! I was going through the pictures I have on my computer and realized that I don't have any of us together. (I'll have to change that once we are together again!)

Melody, I hope you have a great birthday.

Birthday parties

2006-08-26T13:18:00.000-05:00

Last night the Millers had the summer birthday parties mainly because a certain sister was home from the south. My nephew was the party. He was so crazy (could've been because he was tired)! Here are a few pictures from last night. Hope you enjoy.

Hope you enjoy the pics. Later, Jewel

Post for the summer

2006-08-22T14:43:00.000-05:00

I have been so busy that my blog has kinda fallen by the wayside. Working part-time nights and filling in other nights, plus keeping my house clean, cooking, laundry, and keeping up with friends has been a full time job. I decided that I would just post some pictures of a few moments from this summer. Enjoy!

A girl's night of grub, games, and gab

I have an awsome time when these young ladies show up at our door for recording! Heartbeat, I miss ya'll!

Mr. ITF and I took in a wedding of some mutual friends of ours this past weekend. We got just inside the PA line and our (or rather my) alternator when out. Mr. ITF and I have quite the discussion on Fords vs. Chevy! But we made it to the wedding!

Some visitors in the area. Great to see you Uncle David and Aunt Lois!

Guess I'll sign off with a great photo! I love you hun!

New RN

2006-07-11T21:04:00.000-05:00

Finally the time has come that I must make decisions for myself on the medical floor at the hospital. Sunday night was the first time on my own. I think I was more stressed out then I expected. Things went well for the first night, but I came home exhausted. Guess I have to realize that with the excitement of nursing comes great responsibility! I have enjoyed learning to know my patients and taking time to see them smile. (I have even gotten a few to giggle!)

This past week was a busy one. Tom's sister, Jean and her family stayed at our house from early Sat morning until last night. They are planning on being in the area until Monday sometime. Mr. ITF and I were bridal table servers at a good friend's wedding on Saturday. And the Barbershop convention was in Indianapolis this weekend, so our house was filled with the sound of barbershop. When we weren't home there was a mad scramble to get home quickly to hear the whole show for the day. (Mr. ITF was listening to the convention on computer!)

My sister left Monday after a month stay. I miss her already! It was so much fun having her here and knowing that she could be involved in all our family craziness for the month. A family tradition when someone leaves is to stand out in the driveway and wave until you can no longer see the car. That always makes me cry when it's my sister leaving. Needless to say I came home in tears!

I have had a busy week, but a great week. Later, Jewel

Working!!?!?!??

2006-06-28T09:49:00.000-05:00

I now have a job as an RN on a medical floor in the area hospital. I really do like my job, but at times it really keeps me hoppin. Last night I carried the whole team of patients for about the second time. I had 3 very wonderful gentlemen and one lady. They each had their own uniquness that they brought to the team of patients that I cared for.

This morning at about 3:30 I realized that my gentleman that was confused at times, was not sleeping. He wanted to get up and walk around. I called my preceptor in and we decided that we could get him out of bed and sit him in a chair. Then I proceeded to talk my preceptor into helping me give the gentleman a shower!

I think we wore him out because he slept for the rest of the night!

Mission accomplished!

Later, cause I'm tired and my wonderful husband is making me breakfast.

Jewel

Home

2006-06-01T14:02:00.000-05:00

We finally arrived back to our wonderful home in Hoosierville this morning at 4:00AM. The weather is 75 at the moment, but a bit humid!

I start work for real on Sat. night, but I have to go to a meeting all day tomorrow. Guess nursing isn't without its meetings!

I had to go to Wal-Mart for medication this morning. I'm sick. That time change helps me not get too much sleep in Utopia, plus there is so much I want to do and people I want to see!

Mr. ITF is after me to get to bed. So I'll post later, Jewel

Utopia

2006-05-30T17:56:00.000-05:00

I think that I'm having a harder time saying good-bye to Utopia this trip than I have in previous trips. Don't know what all makes the difference, but I do know that Mr. ITF's family holds a special place in my heart!

How does one deal with hurt and pain that is covered up? My heart goes out to individuals that struggle and hurt. But I guess that here lately I have been in that exact boat. Yet somehow the Lord uses pain and hurt to draw his children closer to Him! God is so great and He really does know what He's doing. Our job is to simply allow Him to be God and trust His judgement and plans for our lives. Harder done than said.

The weather in Utopia is wonderful. The sun was out all day today after raining for the majority of the time we've been out here. My dad called yesterday and said that the weather in Hoosierville was to reach to high 80's to 90's. (Humidity and I don't always agree!)

Well, the mother-in-law is teaching me tips on great pie making. Gotta run, Jewel

Jobs, Jobs, Jobs!!?!!?!??!??

2006-05-24T20:09:00.000-05:00

I finally get to try my hand at nursing in the real world. I will be working on a medical-surgical floor on night shift part-time. Mr. ITF and I are very excited to finally have a pay check coming in again.

Mr. ITF and I will be heading off to the land of Utopia early friday morning. Mr. ITF's wonderful Grandmother went to meet her maker on tuesday morning.

Guess I'll write when we get back to Hoosierville.

Jewel

Promised Pictures

2006-05-18T14:41:00.000-05:00

These are the pictures from the weekend of April 29-31. Enjoy!

These are roses from Mr. ITF due to graduating FINALLY from nursing school!

The college put on an appreciation dinner for the graduates and their spouses and families. Here are a few pictures from the dinner.

A good friend of mine with her husband!

My sweet and wonderful Mr. ITF!

Graduation open house was put on by my wonderful mother on Sunday afternoon.

These are a few of my classmates. Wonderful memories were made with them. I miss being with them every day, but I don't miss the school work.

Here is a picture of a professor that believed in me!

State Boards

2006-05-17T21:39:00.000-05:00

I passed! Just found out this morning. But I'm tired so the pics will have to come later. Sleepy time for me! Later, Jewel

I'll try to do a better job of keeping up with posting the next few days.

Time to Post Again!!!

2006-04-05T22:19:00.000-05:00

I worked this past weekend and when Mr. ITF came home he had this in his hand. I was thoroughly thrilled.

Spring is in the air and life is going good. Graduation is just around the corner. What more could I ask for? See ya later, Jewel

Questions From The Heart

2006-02-27T20:47:00.000-06:00

Why is it so hard to be honest with others about what is happening in your heart and dreams? Why is it so difficult to allow others to see the "real" you? Why is living from the heart so challanging and sometimes emotional?

Why is sharing your struggles with a friend make you feel so vulnerable? Why is it easier to listen to other's struggles and give advice than it is to accept the advice or listening ear of a friend?

What makes one's friendships grow? What makes a relationship so difficult and distanced?

Why is challanging someone else so much easier than rising to face your own challange?

Just some questions running through my heart at the beginning of this week. Jewel

Another week-end in the life of Mr. and Mrs. ITF

2006-02-26T20:43:00.000-06:00

Here is what happened over the weekend. Pictures will tell the story!

Hope you enjoy the pictures of the week-end. Hope you have a great week. Later, Jewel

Basketball Tourney

2006-02-26T00:09:00.000-06:00

Our church league has a basketball team. The youth team is doing really well. On Thursday evening Mr. ITF and I went to the game. It was great fun and got me out of doing some homework! Then some friends and family went to eat at Burger King afterwards. (It did help that I had my handy fast food coupons along!)

Here are a few pictures of the evening.

The guys sitting on the bench waiting to play. (To those of you from Utopia notice the Utopian sitting in the center!)

Girl friends of mine that just happened to be at the game supporting the guys.

My beautiful sister with my crazy nephew. (Don't know where the craziness comes from!)

Notice my brother on the left hand side of the picture waiting to get the rebound.

The Utopian shooting a free-throw.

An action picture.

Mr. ITF went with me to the game, but looked like this the whole evening. He did say later that he caught a nap. (He must've been tired with all the noise!)

More sitting. My brother is number 5.

Christmas in February

2006-02-18T21:57:00.000-06:00

It was really sad. About one week ago Mr. ITF and I finally put our Christmas decorations away for the year. Both of us thought about leaving the tree up for the whole year, but decided that it would be more fun to put it back up when the snow started flying again next year.

This is our "undressed" tree. Looks pretty sad I know

A Night in Paris

2006-02-18T20:04:00.000-06:00

Here are a few pics from the valentine's banquet that the youth put on for the rest of the church.

Some of the guys that so nicely parked our cars for us and then got the cars again in the pouring rain!
The girls sold roses to the guys for their special someone and helped the guys serve the tables.
Some of my good pals.

My handsome bro
Pictures of the Eiffel Tower that the youth group put together. It stood in the center of the room. Notice how tall it is. It almost reached the ceiling!

They really did a great job. I think that we have the greatest youth group around!

This is the rose that Mr. ITF bought for me at the banquet!

Hurting Kids

2006-02-09T21:15:00.000-06:00

I am almost finished with my Pediatric rotation and am amazed at the number of hurting children of all ages that I have had contact with. Some it was due to their own personal choices while others had choices made for them. Makes me really thankful for the "sheltered" life that my parents brought me up in. Now I know they were not perfect, but they sure came close.

Also now that I'm married comes the realization the probably in the future sometime Mr. ITF and I will have children and how will we raise them. A woman of much wisdom and I were talking about the importance of allowing your children the freedom to live life to the fullest. That means the freedom to make mistakes and learn what works in life and what doesn't work in life. I believe that this is very important to the development of the child!

If one would have a handicapped child of any degree, did you realize that in order for that child to really survive the world and achieve "normallity" the parents must challange and push the child to achieve? There must be no special treatment of this child or they will not excell to the potential they really are capable of! This I believe with my whole heart.

Now it sounds like Mr. ITF and I are expecting. I'm sure there are already speculations going through minds, but hence, the speculations must stop there, simply as speculations. Just for the record, we are not expecting!

I have the whole aspect of school tomorrow. I begin at the elementary, and then only the Lord knows. I may end up at the high school for several hours, then take the trek out to the boondies to the middle school. I really think that it's going to be a great day. I think that we may be doing scholosis checks. Guess I'll just have to see. Later, Jewel

Monday

2006-02-06T20:30:00.000-06:00

I had to skip school today! I was not really impressed. But I could hardly stand up due to being so weak. It's been awhile since I was sick and now I remember why I hate being sick so much.

Guess now I'll have to make up the class work. The doctor put me on an antibiotic. I'll have to see how it works. I do feel better this evening in a way. I guess that could be because I slept all weekend. Did not know one could sleep so much and still be tired. Mr. ITF was a dear though taking care of me! He'd make a good nurse as long as it did not include anything gross!

He did keep me medicated though. Imagine that. I hate pills and he loves them. Guess that's why opposites attract! Well, gotta go and get more sleep. Jewel

This Weekend

2006-02-05T22:19:00.000-06:00

Mr. ITF, dictating for Jewel:

I'm sick.

Tired!!!!

2006-02-02T19:44:00.000-06:00

I think this past weekend finally caught up with me! I think that I still figured I was young and could handle anything. Wow, what an assumption! I worked for 12 hours on Saturday night, 8 hours on Sunday night, 12 hours on Monday night after 3.5 hours of class, and the last 4 hours of the night shift on Wednesday morning. Then I attended a hospital meeting and went back to school for 3 hours of class. By the time I got back from my 1 hour drive from my college campus I was so tired I could not even walk anymore. Mr. ITF had to carry me to bed where I promptly fell asleep even though it was on 5:30 pm.

Clinical has been going well. I think I will always love children no matter what shape they are in. This rotation with the children has been a real eye opener and I think will continue to be as well.

I have to get up early again in the morning. So I'd better get to bed. Later, Jewel

In an elementary/ Jr. High classroom

2006-01-26T19:29:00.000-06:00

Today for clinical I had to sit in on a classroom setting. Took me back many years ago when I was in elementary and Jr. high. I wondered if there were ever times that I exasperated the teacher! Then I quickly remembered that I was the kid in class that never got into trouble or...well...I guess there was that one time that I was sent to the Principal's office. Opps! Guess that's life.

Really, today was fun. The kids were for the most part well behaved. I had forgotten how kids that age act in school. The teachers in the room were great as well.

I was glad to get home though. The weather was so nice that when I pulled up to Mom and Dad's for a quick visit on the way home, my brother was out washing his truck. Henceforth, my car got a much needed bath as well!

Mr. ITF is not feeling up to par once again. I'm about at my nursing wits end. I don't know how else to ease the discomfort of a sore throat and stuffy nose. Guess they will have to run the course. But he was feeling better the past few days, then today the craziness came back. Oh bother.

Well I have to hit the books again tonight. For those of you keeping track, did you notice the three days in a row! Pretty good, huh? Gotta run, Jewel

Class

2006-01-25T13:25:00.000-06:00

I have one quick break between class, so I figured that I had better quick blog. Nothing much has been going on here except trying to keep Mr. ITF away from too much medication and then trying to get him up in the mornings is a full time job. What can I say?

Clinicals have been going great as have the classes. I enjoy learning for the most part. It's the homework that I don't like!

I started snowing again yesterday evening and the snow stuck as well as caused the roads to become icy. That is why I don't like snow. But I do like seeing it fall from the sky or trying to catch the flakes on my tongue! If you're a kid at heart, it will always come out somewhere!

Class is just about ready to begin again, so I'd better run. Jewel

Tuesday!!?!!

2006-01-24T07:17:00.000-06:00

Today is so full, but somehow I'll make it. I have to go and see if my seamstress will be able to sew some dresses for me and then I'm going grocery shopping with my Mom. That'll be so much fun since we don't get to go alot anymore together. Then it's off for home in time to take Mr. ITF to the dentist. During that time, I'll have to work on my Statistics homework that is due tonight. My first test is in that class tonight. I'm a bit scared, but we'll see how it goes.

Because Mr. ITF is going to the dentist, I'll have to go to class by myself tonight. Not looking forward to that, but I guess one does what one has to do!

It's snowing again! I hope it doesn't stay. I like looking at it from my window, but I hate driving in it. Oh well, that's life. Later, Jewel

The Supper

2006-01-21T22:28:00.000-06:00

Tonight was the big supper that we sold tickets for at the church auction. It was a fun time. Mr. ITF cooked most of the supper! My job was to clean and clean up the house. Mr. ITF stated that he had not seen that much of the living room carpet for a long time. Opps. Guess that I've been slacking in that area. What can I say?

I think after tonight, we'll have left overs for a whole week. Yeah for left overs. Makes Mr. ITF and my jobs a bit easier.

My last school book came today. Finally! I was getting a bit worried, but Mr. ITF kept reassuring me that it would come. Guess now I have to hit that class and finish the homework for one more class. Oh well, isn't that life!

I'm glad that I have the friends that I had here tonight. We sure had many laughs and made many memories. Glad that they could be themselves and just hang out. Hope that ya'll come again soon! Good-Night!

Clinicals

2006-01-19T20:11:00.000-06:00

Clinicals have started! That could be a good thing or it could be a bad thing. I am currently in my pediatric rotation, which I really have enjoyed my whole first day of today. Somehow kids just touch a soft spot in my heart, and when they are hurting I just want to take the hurt away.

Mr. ITF let me sleep for an hour tonight and then he made supper. I had to clean up the kitchen, but I didn't care.

The weather here is around 50 degrees, but I have been chilly. Don't know why. I roast Mr. ITF out in the car with the heater going full blast, then I turn the heater blanket on during the night. He's always telling me how hot he is! I just laugh.

Here is a recent picture of my nephew. I think he is so cute.

Time for an Update

2006-01-11T04:56:00.000-06:00

Mr ITF and I had so much fun in Utopia over the Christmas holiday with both his family and my family present. We also had a wedding reception and received the Taste of Home Beef cookbook. Mr. ITF has been cooking soup out of this cookbook for the past several days and I've just sat back and enjoyed the finished product of his labor!

School started up again for me last night. The class is from 6-8:50pm on Statistics and Probabilites. Needless to say, I think that my Microsoft Excel capabilities need to be freshened up a bit. Part of the class did go over my head, but I think that I got the main ideas and what the professor was talking about. (At least I hope so!)

Well, Mr. ITF just headed out the door for work and I still need to get some shut eye. Talk to ya'll later, Jewel

Thanksgiving

2005-11-24T23:27:00.000-06:00

HAPPY THANKSGIVING EVERYONE!!

I'm so thankful for my wonderful husband and the way he caters to my every need. Every woman should be as pampered as me!!

I'm thankful for my parents and the influence they had in my life. I'm thankful for my Grandpa Yoder (even though he won't dance with me), and my Grandma and Grandpa Miller. I'm thankful for the family that gathered today for food and fellowship.

There are so many things that I am thankful for. God has offered me the free gift of salvation through the death of his only begotten Son. I'm thankful that Jesus was willing to leave the splendor of heaven and come walk on this earth knowing full well that his goal was to die on the cross for my sins.

I'm thankful for a warm house, warm clothes, clean water, enough food to eat, and the freedom to worship openly. God has so richly blessed me this year and so often I forget to thank him.

I hope that y'all can have a wonderful thanksgiving and remember to thank God for the many blessings He's given you this year. Jewel

Tyler

2005-11-24T19:53:00.000-06:00

I wish that I could have had the privilege of knowing Tyler. There is so much that I have been hearing wonderful memories of the life Tyler led. Yet I have no memories of my own to share of Tyler. This has made Tyler dying really hard for me.

The opportunity of knowing Tyler will never be awarded to me. Because of this I have really struggled with the fact that I'll never get to meet Tyler. Tyler ment so much to Tom and I know this because of the many tears that we have shed together and the memories that Tom has shared with me that Tom has of Tyler.

Tom and I are planning on flying out of Indianapolis early on tuesday morning for the funeral and coming back home on sunday evening.

Tears and a broken heart, Jewel

Quietness

2005-11-01T20:48:00.000-06:00

The house is now quiet from the weekend activities, but Mr. and Mrs. ITF are still trying to adapt to the quiet as well as catch up on some much needed sleep! Heartbeat, we miss you! I think I missed you the moment you were gone. Sniff, sniff.

The house was especially quiet tonight due to the fact that I knew Mr. ITF was not coming home from the den of iniquity until late. So I ate supper at Mom and Dad's, just like old times. It was actually fun! I arrived home at an hour in early evening, but there was no red "race" car in the driveway. I begin to work on homework just to get my mind off the fact that Mr. ITF was not yet home even though the hour was getting late. Finally about 8pm, the motion light went off outside the door. There stood Mr. ITF. I was so excited.

So now supper is over and Mr. ITF is relaxin' on the couch with a Mark Lowry DVD. I love it. Gotta run. Jewel

Mid-terms

2005-10-10T23:10:00.000-05:00

There are a few things about mid-terms. First, if one is not doing well, the course can still change! Second, the semester is half over!

Mr. ITF took me to class tonight cause I still needed to study for a mid-term tonight. Nice guy, huh! Was great till we were 3/4 of the way there and I thought that the driving was a bit slow and erratic. I looked up just in time to see Mr. ITF's head do a great big "BOING". I guess that is what you'd call it. It is the same as agreeing with everything in church, only 10 times bigger! Needless to say I was not amused.

I went to class and Mr. ITF slept in the car. In fact he slept so hard that when I came out after taking the test, he could not even open the car doors. (They were locked!) He ended up turning the key and rolling down the window! Ha Ha. I took the keys and went back to the classroom. He acted a bit hurt that I took the keys, but...well...what else could I do! Guess who did some of the driving after class? Well, later. I still have some studying to do.

Women and emotions

2005-09-29T22:24:00.000-05:00

Why is it that women cry for no reason? Why are women tender and sensitive? I know that is the way God made us, but...! This week has been just like the weather here, dark, cloudy, and rainy. There has been more than my share of tears shed this week. Poor Mr. ITF! I think that after this week, if you see him walking around and scratching his head, well...now you know the reason. It's kinda funny in a way to see him totally baffled for once.
I'm actually finished with classes for the week, but I have to work friday and saturday nights. Makes for a busy week.

There was no bread, cookies, or yogurt made this week, except for the cookies that Mr. ITF made tonight. Bless his heart. To tell you the truth, he is the best man out there in the world! Well, before I get too gushy, I'll sign off!

Mr. ITF travels alone

2005-09-25T00:54:00.000-05:00

Mr. ITF and my brother left yesterday around 5:30pm to head out to SMBI for the weekend. This is the first that Mr. ITF and I have been apart since we tied the knot. I'll be glad when he comes back, that's for sure!

The reason that I couldn't go along was that I had to work last night. But I did get to attend the Mennonite Relief Sale that was this week-end. That was fun. I did get the house kinda cleaned up without any interruptions and got some home work finished. Well, it's late here and I'm finally gettin tired again. Jewel

Another post

2005-09-06T23:07:00.000-05:00

I thought it was time to blog once again. Because I've been so busy, I thought I'd just allow you a quick glimpse into ITF and Mrs. ITF's lives if for just a moment. Now mind you that these were not posed pictures, but rather taken true and in the act.

This is Tom actually doing the dishes. Yes, now that I'm back in school, he not only cooks, but also does the dishes so that I can study!!!

This is where I go to hide out and study. The couch, where the arm rest can hold the heavy books for me. I think that is a plan!

We make quite the team here at the ITF household. But I would be quick to say that we're happy and that makes all the difference. Love covers a multitude of...well...I'll just quit while I'm still ahead! Later

Duties of this house wife

2005-08-29T13:14:00.000-05:00

So now school has started and I've not posted in a while. I feel a bit overwhelmed in doing double duty. First and formost I have to be a gracious wife to my wonderful hubby, Mr. ITF, then secondly I have to be the great student and get the grades that I want and yes, need. Then thirdly, I have to help keep my patients and staff happy at the hospital.

I really hate having my house a wreck. Slowly but surely, the house is coming to look like home to both Mr. ITF and I. There are shelves and pictures hanging on the wall and the bookshelves are full of books!

My home-made bread is nicely put in the freezer and the cookies are put away for the week. This morning I also had my home-made yogert put into the fridge for the week. I'll say that the week is off to a great start!

Last night Mr. ITF and I were on our way over to my folks for an evening of games. I asked Mr. ITF to put a brown towel into the laundry. (I don't know what is wrong with his ears right now...but) He asked me, "What's up with the brown cow"? I just busted up laughing. Now he just says, that I'm makin up stories and tellin lies. I guess that neither of us is going to budge on our side of the story, so he can just believe what he wants! Meanwhile, I'll just keep right on laughin.

Guess I'll talk later.

Trouble at school ALREADY!

2005-08-24T16:43:00.000-05:00

Today was my first day of class. It started at 8 and does not end until 9:40pm. Sigh! Oh well, I guess that is just the way bein a senior in college is. No more fun and games for me.

Although today I kept getting into trouble. Don't know what in the world got into me. All I can think of is that right before I started getting into trouble, I had a cup of DECAFFINATED chai tea. That sugar will do it every time.

Nursing is just a bit scarey to me. I don't mind the book work so much, but it is getting out in the real world where it is just you and the patient. If you make a mistake, then it's your license. I just hope and pray that I'll be a safe, good, and effective nurse.

Tom, you'll have to help me the next few months you know! Hope that you're holdin down the fort while I'm at school! Remember, don't take any more of that crazy medication!

I'm runnin out of thing to write about, so I'll talk later.

School

2005-08-23T07:11:00.000-05:00

Tomorrow school starts for me. I really have mixed feelings about it. In a lot of ways I'm really excited that this is finally my senior year, but on the other hand, I won't get to see Tom much. I have to spend at least one night at school, and if gas prices keep rising, then one more as well. Then I work two nights a week. Guess that all comes with going to school.

I was finally able to get Tom off to work this morning after the two valium last night. Man, I told him that under no uncertain terms was he to take two when he has to get up the next morning! I think we were both irritable this morning.

Well, I've got to go and pick up some books and drop boxes off at the post office. Therefore I'll talk later.

Tom and the dentist

2005-08-22T18:03:00.000-05:00

Tom went to the dentist today! That in and of itself is quite an accomplishment!! He just wants to be put under for all the dental work that he needs to have done. I guess just as long as he goes to the dentist then that is fine.

It was really funny when I made the first appointment with my dentist. We were not married yet, but I decided that I would make an appointment for him and just tell him later.
The lady behind the desk asked me if Tom knew that I was making the appointment.
I said "No".
She asked me if he would come.
I said "Yes".
She asked me if I was confident that he would come.
I said "Yes".
Then she told me that there have been many times that people make appointments for other people and they never show. I quickly informed her that if Tom did not show I would give her enough notice! She just laughed.

My dentist does not do conscious sedation, so off Tom went in search of other dentists that my dentist recommended. That is how we got to today!

Tom took one valium last night, then sat up at the computer waiting for the "pill" to take affect. I finally had to go to bed. I think that the "pill" had more affect on Tom than he realized, because this morning when the alarm went off and I tried to wake him, he could only comment, "I never knew that you had so many camels"! Where that came from, I can only assume, the "pill".

Then before we left for the dentist this afternoon, Tom took it upon himself to take not one "pill" like the dentist perscribed, but to take TWO. I never knew that Tom could get giddy and irritable at the same time. I just laughed at him. Walking out to the car, he looked at me and very confidently stated "My step is sure and my gaze steady". I just laughed.

When we got back home, Tom quickly went to the computer and I to the kitchen. (Yes, I made my second meal since I got married!) And it was very good!! But before I could pull the chicken from the oven, Tom had already gone and laid down. His sheepish comment to me before he went was "I'm just so tired and I don't know why". I just laughed at him.

I hope that the stronger medication that the dentist gave him for future use doesn't make him more tired or more giddy! I guess that only time will tell.

Derrick, my nephew

2005-08-19T16:17:00.000-05:00

I figured that I'd share some cute pictures with you. This is my nephew and yes he is spoiled. We have loved watching him grow and learn to sit, stand, and now walk. He really has been a joy.

Tom and Food

2005-08-19T05:19:00.000-05:00

Yesterday my sister left after being around for 1 week. I always hate saying good-bye. Our family always stands outside and waves untill the person leaving can't be seen any longer. I think that it's a neat tradition, but it always makes me cry.

Tom just left for work. Usually he doesn't eat any breakfast, but this morning he shocked me to silence when he accepted my offer for two eggs, OJ, and toast. He told me that he won't be hungry when he gets home, but I'll bet old habits die hard!

Last night after Tom had been sleeping for a while, he leaned right up to my face (like he was seeing if my eyes were open) and begin to talk unintelligibly. When I asked him to sit up he began talking, with as much emotion as he could while still being asleep, about the j-box and the wires. I asked him what about the j-box and he answered he just wanted to make sure they were wired right. LOL!

Last night Tom made dinner for us once again. (I think that I've only cooked once since we got married! I can't complain!) When he was dishing out the stuffing, I don't know what happened, but the pan and stuffing went flying off the stove and needless to say we had stuffing everywhere. Tom of course was frazzled, but I just stood there and laughed. The more I laughed, the more frazzled Tom got. He just kept asking how to clean it up. The more he asked, the more I laughed. The circle just went round and round, till I could quit laughing.

Questions about death and my wicked side

2005-08-13T22:25:00.000-05:00

The other night at work, I had this patient that looked at me with fear in his eyes as he struggled to breath, and asked, "I'm dying aren't I". What does one say in response to a question like that? My quick response is to say, "No, you'll be alright." But don't people know when they are getting close to death? So how does a trite answer take away all the fears? I don't think it does at all, but rather makes them feel like I as a nursing stuent are not listening to them. I've really struggled with this issue. Maybe the thing to do is not to say anything at all, but to simply be there for them and listen.

Tom came home from work the other day and woke me from a sound sleep. I was really not too impressed. Well, when he went to jump in the shower I got this wicked thought in my head. You see, the toliet is just close enough to the shower to... well...let me start at the beginning.

Once I heard the shower water running, I remembered that I had done the dishes the night before. Tom has this glass that he likes to put tea in right after it is made. Because it usually sits upside-down in the freezer so the fluid inbetween the inside of the glass and the outside can freeze. This was waiting in the freezer. I slipped out of bed and crept to the kitchen. There I put tap water in the glass and stirred it with my finger till I thought that it was cool enough. Then into the bathroom I crept.

Remember the toliet is just close enough to the shower, that if I stretched just a bit from the top of the toliet lid, I could pour the freezing water just over the shower curtin, down on Tom's unsuspecting head. I knew the moment the water hit him because I heard a gasp and a mad scramble to get under the warmer water from the shower head. I had no mercy though and kept pouring. Quicker than I could think, Tom poked out his face from behind the shower curtin with this pained look of betrayal on his face. It really was quite funny.

Then to finish off this post. I don't know how many of you know that Tom talks in his sleep. I can actually ask him questions and he'll answer them. Well, the other morning, his alarm went off for him to get up and go to work. I poked him and told him to hit snooze. (I have to remind him that the big button is snooze, and the little button is off!) After the radio went off a few times, I asked him what time it was. He quickly answered, "Uhh, Wal-Mart I think". I just had to laugh.

Lady Patients and their Minds

2005-08-08T09:14:00.000-05:00

Last night I got called in to work as an aid on another floor of the hospital. I don't know if I've ever laughed so hard at some patients. One little old lady, I think she was 85, was pleasently confused. She was talking to me and another nurse about how she really feels pushed around and trapped in her room. At the end of the conversation, she begin singing "This is My Story". She sang that one phrase over about 3 times and then proceeded on to singing the entire chorus. I really laughed cause it was sung a bit out of context.

Then there was one other lady that tried to get us to think that she was out of her mind. She yelled, screamed, and cried all night. Finally the same nurse walked in, closed the door, and asked her what was wrong. She just started complaining about "Why God, why". The nurse then proceeded to tell her that she needed to count her blessings. That was not taken too well. Later I went in cause she was once again crying loudly. I asked her what was wrong and tried to make her comfortable in bed. She made some comment about being alone. But then her language changed and man was she ever mad at me. I quickly informed her that I did not want to hear her talk like that and if she continued I was going to leave and close the door. I think that made her even madder, but she held her tongue.

I was just about at my wits end with both of these ladies by the time morning came. If one wasn't screaming, then the other was telling me that she was going home right now and if the doctor did not hurry in, then he just wouldn't get to see her for that day. Then amist all of that confusion, there were other patients to tend to. Those that needed pain meds, IV pumps alarming, people needing to be repositioned, and people needing to use the bathroom.

Working in the medical field, one needs to be so many places at once. There are not only the patients to make comfortable, but there are families that need their questions answered, phones that won't stop rining (and no answering machines), then last night on top of all of that, I had two other floors calling me asking how the put in orders, and other such questions. Talk about quite the night. At least the night went fast and I was still able to laugh!

Vacuums and Moonlight talks

2005-08-05T22:11:00.000-05:00

Tom and I finally got a vacuum (as Tom calls them things). Individuals in Hoosierville would rather call them sweepers. It is a Simplicity. Yes, the same company that makes sewing machines and patterns. It works great. I've already swept up all the spiders and ants that I could find in this house. But I'm sure there will be more to come. Aggggghhhhhhh!

Tom and I came home late. Who knows where we were any more or what we were shopping for (cause that is what we do most of the time when we aren't at home)! JK. Tom in one of his rare moods actually consented to sitting out on our little slab of cement that we call a porch, while I laid in the hammock that we got as a wedding gift. There we drank our club soda drinks with syrup flavoring and whipped topping and talked about the things we held dear to our hearts. It really was a great time. Guys out there that have wives (and even those that don't) lend me your ears (or rather your eyes) for just a moment and let me tell you a thing that women love. We love a guy that can give undivided attention for a few moments and really listen to what we have to say. Yes, even in those times when we don't make that much sense! (That's when we have the excuse that we're just bein' a woman!)

It really was neat. The crickets or frogs were out that night as well as the mosquitoes. Man, they must have thought that I was made of somethin' sweet cause they sure took big bites outta me. I was not too impressed. So yes, I was the party pooper and told Tom that I had to go inside before he saw me eaten up right before my eyes. Oh well, guess that all romantic moments have to end sometime!

Why God?

2005-08-04T23:03:00.000-05:00

So how does one deal with death and the grieving process? This past weekend one of the guys that was a cook in the kitchen at our wedding was killed along with 2 of his grandsons. Ross was 10 and Lavern was 8. Darrin is 7 and it was just a miracle that he wasn't killed as well. This link gives the story.

Patsy, Sam's wife, is Mom's best friend. Somehow through the pain that our family has had to deal with it is still with tears streaming down our face that yes, God is still in control. There are many hard days, nights, and moments ahead for both Patsy and Rachel, the boys' mom, as well as Darrin. Help me pray that they will find the safe and comforting arms of Jesus to carry them through the next day, days, week, month, year. Birthdays, anniversary, and the holidays are only 5-6 months away.

There are times that I don't know what to say. This is one of those times. My heart is broken and weeping that someone has to deal with this type of pain and anguish. This is the time that I question, "God why?" Sunday two weeks ago, my Sunday school was discussing the whole idea that one has to acknowledge the fact that there are times in our lives when we know that God could have intervened, but didn't. How do you handle these times?

A gal that I work with told me that it's alright to be angry with God right at first, but one has to move on from being angry to acceptance somehow. Forgiveness is the key, but that takes time. I think that I really agree with her. There have been so many things that have happened over the past few weeks that I've really had to deal with this issue on.

I Samuel 1:18 says, "And she said, Let thine handmaid find grace in thy sight. So the woman went her way, and did eat, and her countenance was no more sad." Here Hannah so desperatly wanted a child. But she placed her dreams, desires, and wants into God's control. Then she went away and made a conscious decision that she wasn't going to worry about it any longer. Because her God was bigger than she and He could see the whole picture. This hit me so hard because how often do I think I know what is best for me and those that I love. Then when circumstances don't happen the way I think they should, then I whine, complain, and drag my feet with God.

Gardening

2005-08-04T22:15:00.000-05:00

Has it ever happened when the beans need to be picked in the garden, the rain comes? This morning I had to go to the hospital for one of those great "meetings" that we as employees are entitled to be honored to attend! When I walked out at 8:15 there was already sprinkles falling from the sky. I thought well if I hurry over to Mom and Dad's then maybe I can get the beans in before the rain really hits, or maybe my Mom has already picked them. No such luck. She was still sleeping. Sigh!! So out into the rain my bucket and I went. I only got about 1 gallon of beans. Just enough for fresh eatin'. Oh well, guess we'll eat them tomorrow. Guess that I should not complain though, cause we really did need the rain. Here in Hoosierville when it doesn't rain for a week, then the humidy goes sky high and the heat increases. I can't say that I'm ready for the cold weather though.

Tom made supper again tonight. To tell the truth, he cooks better than I could ever dream of cooking. So to keep both of us happy, he cooks, while I'm just content to sit back and observe him being the man in the kitchen.

Tonight we decided to be wild and go out on the town at 10pm for DQ shakes. I guess that you could call it a mini date that only took 10 minutes. It really was tons of fun though. Well tomorrow is another big day.

Marriage Thoughts

2005-08-03T20:10:00.000-05:00

This marriage thing is harder than I ever thought that it would be. Guess that is what happens when you enter marriage with the best foot forward! Don't get me wrong, I really enjoy married life, I just have to learn how to think like a married individual instead of an independant single woman.
Now that I've joined the blog world, I hope that everyone that knows Tom will see that he never will have a dull moment and neither will I.