Land of the Free...

There was a time when men and women were proud of the flag and knew what it stood for.

There was a time when every child knew the pledge of allegiance.

There was a time when God was an integral part of this country.

There was a time when people were proud to vote- because they had to fight for that right.

What happened America??

I remember times when our country came together after 9-11, prayed together, and fought together. What happened?? How quickly people turn away from these things after they feel comfortable again. How quickly we forget our pride in our country. I am in no way an extremist in politics. I don't devour the news all the time. But- I DO vote. I was so sad to see how many people chose not to vote during this last election. I don't care if it was the primary election. I don't care that it's not voting for the president of the United States. It's my right to vote- a right that I wouldn't have always had if it had not been for brave women before me fighting for that right.

Sometimes the world can be so scary. My future can be scary when I see people's lack of interest and of knowledge with what is happening in our country. I can't stand it when I hear people bad-mouthing America. We are the place where people want to be!! We have freedoms and rights that not everyone has! I don't know why I feel so passionate lately. Maybe it's because the Fourth of July is coming up, and I'm feeling patriotic. I just wanted to tell you that it is the Land of the Free... BECAUSE of the Brave. Whether you are brave by fighting for your country, taking pride in your country, teaching your children the pledge of allegiance, or voting, take pride in the fact that you are an American.

Total Money Makeover

Randy and I are almost through reading Dave Ramsey's Total Money Makeover. It is such an inspiring book! I really do recommend it to everyone out there. One of Dave's big mottos is that if you are willing to live like no one else, later you will live like no one else. We are on a really tight budget, with little income as it is, but I think if we stick to the principles in the book, we will be a lot happier later. We are already one step ahead by being debt free, and can scrimp and save for other necessities that will come in life.

Some of the things that we need to save for are a down payment on a home, future children, and a new car. Our monthly income is tiny, but I believe in us. That means that we can't spend money on things that we don't need. Even on the little things. I think it's more important to sacrifice now so that we can have a more secure future. So to any of my family and friends reading this, don't be offended if we can't go out to eat, go to the movies, or do some of the other activities that we all enjoy. We are trying to live like no one else, so later, we can live like no one else! Read The Total Money Makeover!!!

What a View

The financial aid office. Where students come to yell, cry, complain, and offer an occasional handshake and a "you saved my life!" comment. I love the feeling of leaving every night. There's something about going outside into fresh air, stretching your legs, and feeling glad that you survived another day. Last night, as I walked outside to my car, I couldn't help but notice how pretty the sky looked. Everything looked so clear and beautiful! I took in a deep breath, took it all in, and started walking to my car. Just after I finished looking at the beautiful view of the sky, I noticed another view across the way. A few cars over, a middle-aged man and a girl were getting in the car. It's interesting how quickly a view can change- one minute, a beautiful sky, another minute, a man who needs to pull up his pants. It was just ironic. :)

Better Late Than Never

It's been a while. I still love yoplait. This week has been awesome because Randy is done driving his bus, and my mom is out of school. Wahoo! That means I have people to be with during the day! We were busy gardening this week, and I made a TON of freezer jam with strawberries that we got from Winco. It's been a blast! Randy and I are extremely sore from the gardening projects we've been doing, and walking in the park every day. Randy also helped his parents with their garden and has worked hard removing weeds and old trees. What a trooper :)

We leave for Disneyland fairly soon, and we can't wait to get away for a while! Oh, and Randy has had two more interviews this week for other jobs. He is currently contracting with the church, but is keeping his options open for better opportunities. His new cover letter rocks, and because of this new cover letter, was contacted about two jobs on the same day :)

Pictures of jam-making to come.