Picnic in Reliance

Last Tuesday, the family loaded up and we headed to Reliance to have a picnic, hang out, and let Kaylee and her friend play in the water. It was a whole lot of fun. We enjoyed a picnic lunch of sandwiches and chips before letting the girls play in the water. The water was really cold, but they loved it. I sat by the water in my chair until it started coming in. Boy was that an adventure - getting me back up on the sidewalk before the water came in too far, haha! 

After the water came in the girls enjoyed tubing down the river just a little with the current. Dad and Sis endured the water and caught them.

Later in the afternoon just before we left, a man came down to the river with his dog. He had a tennis ball with him and the dog would catch it if you threw it in the water. It was really fun to watch and the kids loved it. Every kid there got a chance to throw the ball for the dog.

Can't wait to go again! Here are a few pictures:

 

What activities have you done this summer?

These Wheels Were Made for Dancin'

"These wheels were made for dancin', and that's just what they'll do..."

Yep, that's right; adapted straight from a country song! As you already know and have read, I have a huge love for music. Live local shows are one of my favorite weekend activities when the opportunity arises. Not only do I enjoy the loud music, I also love dancing! I get out on the dance floor just like everyone else and just enjoy scootin' around and having a great time. When I am dancing I don't worry about anything. All the worries in my world fade away and I truly truly enjoy myself. It is freeing just like the music is. 

What do you do to free your mind and/or de-stress?

Pampering Should be Relaxing

Let's face it, most all females like to be pampered once in a while. This usually consists of some shopping and most likely a manicure and/or pedicure. I am one of those girls. I do not have painted nails often because it is not something I do well on my own. [Trust me I've tried] So, ever great once in a while I have girl time with my sister and a friend and have my nails painted.

I am always satisfied with the way my nails turn out and it makes me feel girly as it should.

However, the process of having my nails done has never been a truly relaxing experience for me. You may be thinking, "Well, why not? I love going to have my nails done!"

This is why:

• I cannot roll completely under the manicure table.
• The manicurist usually seems frustrated with me because I cannot completely relax my hand.
• I have to lean way over the table which causes my back to hurt.

If I were able to roll completely under the table I think my experience in such a salon would be different. I would be able to sit more comfortably and not have to lean way over, nor would they have to pull at my arm all the time. And the manicurist would not seem as frustrated.

Thoughts ladies?

A Peaceful Sunday

Yesterday was a very peaceful day for me. It was quiet and relaxing. I spent a lot of time outside. I enjoy the outdoors when the sun is shining bright! My lilies finally bloomed. I love it when they do!

Later in the afternoon I enjoyed a Nestle Drumstick on the porch. The first ice cream I've had this summer. It was delicious! :) 

I also prepared dinner last night, it's the least I can do for my sister and all the hard work she does. I am so glad we have been blessed with an awesome relationship. I made BBQ Chicken in my crock pot!

I ended the night with my favorite little person my sunshine. I love having her around! :)

The Gift of Time

All of us are given the gift of time to use in whatever way we choose. Sometimes we are wise about it and sometimes not.

After finishing school at Cleveland State I was sure that I would have a job working from home doing medical transcription, which would make for a lot of time spent productively. Unfortunately, life did not pan out that way. I settled into just tending to the house. Billls were paid, I didn't need to worry.

However, at times I would worry about what others thought of me because I had gone to school and didn't have anything to show for it besides the degree hanging on my living room wall. It bothered me that I had achieved this goal and was not even putting it to use. In short, at times I have felt like a bum. I have often times begged the question, "Why did I do that if I was not going to use it?" I know many of us ask that question after finishing school. But, we should be proud of ourselves for achieving that goal which we set for ourselves. I know I am.

I have learned to see this personal struggle I've had in a different light. Having "too much time on my hands" has afforded me many wonderful opportunities. I am able to give my time to those who need it most - my family.

My sister does not have to worry about finding a sitter while she works. I am available anytime I need to be.

I am able to be part of all activities Kaylee has in school because I am not working around a schedule.

I am able to spend a lot of one-on-one time with Kaylee also.

I am thankful for this opportunity. I may not ever have kids of my own, but having time allows me to play a big role in my nieces life and that is one of the most important jobs I could have in this life. I get paid with lots of love and girly giggles!

On Turning 30

Last Tuesday, May 20, I turned the big 3-0. I started the morning off listening to music while sitting out in the sun. That is my morning ritual during the summer if it is not raining. My mom came over for the late afternoon/early evening. She baked me a big batch of homemade peanut butter cookies. One of my favorites that she does. :) Later that night, I went out with my sister and some friends to listen to some local music talent. We had a great night! This past weekend, I was able to go see Zach Dylan & D-Railed at B & B Marina with my sister and some more of our friends. So, all in all, I had a awesome birthday week.

I have a feeling this next year is going to be full of new and exciting adventures. Better buckle up for the ride huh?! :)

How Music Keeps Me Going: Dedicated to Joseph Drew "MOJO"

JoJo and I at The Park Bench in ATL

Music has always been a big part of my life. I've had a love for it ever since I was a young child. I can remember asking Mom and Dad to play certain songs on our travels to and from Kentucky. One of them was Rocky Mountain Way by Joe Walsh. Some of my favorite childhood memories involved music. Dancing in the living room with Mom and Dad to old cassette tapes for hours and just laughing and enjoy our time together. My sister and I use to blast music while we played outside riding our bikes.

Music instantly puts me in a good mood when I am feeling down. I have an immense love for live music. Most times I would much rather listen to live music as opposed to the radio or a CD/MP3 player.. to compensate I just turn my music up really loud and jam out. Live music is soothing to my soul. I don't think about anything when I am listening to a band, (I have a few local favorites). My wheelchair doesn't even exist to me I get out there and dance with the best of them! Who says MsHotwheels can't dance? ;)

The picture above is one of my favorites. Joseph Drew in the former drummer for my favorite band from Atlanta, Pistol Town. He now plays with a band called STARS in Austin, Texas. When I met JoJo for the first time we instantly connected. He has a huge passion for music and a zest for life that is contagious! He always has a smile on his face and positive things to say. Every time I seen him at a show or now message on Facebook he always asks how I am doing and how my writing is going. He took a genuine interest in my writing for Cerebral Palsy Family Network and that's always meant a lot to me, because I'll be honest sometimes I feel like my writing gets me nowhere - even here on my personal blog. But, I'll keep writing anyway because I enjoy it.

So, again... thank you JoJo for your support through this journey in life. You've impacted my life and my love for music. Your friendship means a lot. <3 always and forever, because circles never end <3.

"Let's get on with the music..."

Cerebral Palsy Family Network Blog - For those who want to read!